Boago Fenju continues to take up space
BOAGO FENJU JOINS ELITE RANKS OF AFRICAN MUSIC ACADEMY
The Botswana Musicians Union (BOMU) is celebrating a monumental achievement as one of its own, Boago Fenju, has been appointed to the prestigious Honorary Committee of the African Music Academy (AMA), headquartered in France.
This groundbreaking recognition follows a highly competitive selection process that saw 360 artists from across the continent vying for positions. Established in 2014 under French law, the AMA is a continental initiative dedicated to promoting and advancing pan-African music.
It focuses on education, competition, professional development, and internationally recognized awards, ensuring the African musician remains central to both the cultural message and musical structure.
Boago Fenju, representing Botswana, emerged victorious in the Songwriters Category, triumphing over 53 nominees, including South Africa’s renowned Siphokazi.
She stood out among five other exceptional Batswana creatives who participated in the selection process: Kearoma Rantao, Suffocate, Mmurubele, Han-C, and Fella.
Her appointment to the AMA Honorary Committee places her in an elite group of continental talent. She joins Miguel Hernandez (Venezuela – Composers), Rich Bizzy (Zambia – Performers), Lulu (Malawi – Musicians), ChawaBeats (Malawi – Producers), and Lé Zulu (Burkina Faso – Managers).
This historic milestone is not just a celebration of Fenju’s individual talent and perseverance; it also signals a significant shift in the regional and continental recognition of Botswana’s vibrant music scene.
BOMU Secretary General Rasina Rasina notes, “Interestingly, we have been doing more than well in the international space than we give ourselves credit for. Botswana artists are part of many global Halls of Fame; we just don’t celebrate ourselves. BOMU is going to ensure that Boago Fenju and the Botswana creative space milks this opportunity dry.”
The official designation event for the Honorary Committee is set to take place in France, marking yet another international appearance for Botswana’s music elite. This moment will serve as a powerful source of inspiration for local artists, showcasing the global potential of their craft.
As Botswana’s cultural footprint continues to expand across the African map, Fenju’s groundbreaking achievement stands as a powerful reminder of the immense creative power residing within the nation, and the critical importance of championing it on every possible stage.
