DJ Khaled to host MTV Africa Music Awards 2021
DJ Khaled is set to serve as the international host for the MTV Africa Music Awards Kampala 2021 (MAMA) on Feb. 20. He is also a nominee for best international act.
MTV will air the event globally, in 180 countries, for the first time.
The hip-hop star will host the virtual awards ceremony from his home in Miami, alongside African co-emcees for the event. The show’s home base will be Kampala, the capital and largest city of Uganda.
Hip-hop stars Wyclef Jean and Eve and actors Anthony Anderson and Marlon Wayans are among past hosts of the event, now in its 14th year.
The MAMA Kampala 2021 event will celebrate African talent across 20 award categories. Nominees in 16 categories have been announced.
For artist of the year, the nominees are Burna Boy, Calema, Diamond Platnumz, Master KG, Davido, Tiwa Savage and Wizkid.
For best international act, DJ Khaled is competing with The Weeknd, Da Baby, Megan Thee Stallion, Drake and Beyoncé.
Other new awards include the MAMA Generation Change Award, Best Fan Base, Alone Together Best Lockdown Performance and Personality of the Year.
“Africa is home to some of the world’s most dynamic talent and we’re excited to spotlight these artists as the MAMAs broadcast in 180 countries for the first time in MTV history,” Bruce Gillmer, president of music, music talent, programming & events for ViacomCBS Media Networks, said in a statement.
Monde Twala, senior vice president and general manager at ViacomCBS Networks Africa, said, “we are thrilled to have DJ Khaled as our international host for MAMA Kampala 2021.”
“With his global success achievement and over 22 million followers on social media, he will inspire youth across the continent and attract an even bigger international audience to the virtual event.”
For his part, DJ Khaled said, “MTV has always been a great partner so I jumped at the opportunity to host this year’s MAMAs. I can’t wait to celebrate the incredible music that comes out of Africa, which has inspired me throughout my career.”
