Global Citizen has officially announced that Grammy Award–winning superstar Doja Cat will headline the 2026 edition of Move Afrika, the pioneering pan-African touring circuit entering its third year of expansion across the continent.
Set for March, the tour will stop at BK Arena in Kigali on March 17 and SunBet Arena in Pretoria on March 20, reinforcing Move Afrika’s growing footprint as one of the continent’s most ambitious live-music initiatives.
Launched to help build Africa’s first large-scale touring circuit powered by international artists, Move Afrika continues to position live entertainment as a driver of economic opportunity, job creation, and long-term investment in the continent’s creative industries.
A Tour With Economic Impact
Backed by Major Tour Partner Cisco and developed in partnership with pgLang and Kendrick Lamar, the initiative goes beyond the stage. Since its inception, Move Afrika has generated more than 2,500 jobs across Kigali and Lagos, with over 90% of production roles filled by local talent.
In Kigali specifically, the share of local crew members rose from 75% in 2023 to 90% in 2025, while 95% of audio and lighting equipment was sourced locally, a clear signal of the program’s commitment to building sustainable capacity within African live-event ecosystems.
Youth development also remains central to the mission. Through collaborations with the Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator, dozens of young professionals have received paid, hands-on training in production, rigging, security, and hospitality.
Doja Cat, “This Isn’t Just a Tour”
For Doja Cat, whose global rise has reshaped contemporary pop and hip-hop, the Move Afrika platform represents more than a headline moment.
“From my South African roots straight to the world stage, we’re bringing energy, purpose, and real change to Move Afrika in Kigali and Pretoria,” she said. “This isn’t just a tour, it’s a movement that creates jobs and opportunities that last.”
Her involvement marks another high-profile chapter for the initiative, following previous editions headlined by Kendrick Lamar and John Legend.
Global Citizen Expands Its Continental Vision
Global Citizen Co-Founder and CEO Hugh Evans emphasized the broader ambition behind the tour’s continued growth.
“Move Afrika is redefining global touring by placing Africa’s creative excellence at the center of the international circuit,” Evans said. “We are creating jobs, strengthening local creative industries, and driving long-term economic growth powered by culture.”
The 2026 rollout also aligns with Global Citizen’s ongoing advocacy for stronger health systems across Africa. Ahead of each event, the organization will campaign alongside local partners to promote investments in primary healthcare, sexual and reproductive health, and broader health resilience.
Rwanda Strengthens Its Live Entertainment Position
Rwanda Development Board CEO Jean-Guy Afrika welcomed the tour’s return to Kigali, highlighting its role in the country’s creative-economy strategy.
“Move Afrika’s return reflects our continued dedication to elevating Africa’s creative industries and using global entertainment to drive meaningful progress,” he said.
The partnership supports Rwanda’s ambition to position itself as a premier destination for large-scale live events while expanding employment pathways for young people.
Building the Future of Africa’s Touring Circuit
Alongside the tour, the Music Economy Development Initiative (MEDI), launched with Global Citizen, Universal Music Group, and the IFC, will release new research aimed at advancing music policy reform and unlocking financing for Africa’s growing creator economy.
As Move Afrika scales into its third year, the platform continues to evolve from a concert series into something more structural, a long-term bet on Africa’s live-music infrastructure and the next generation of creative talent.
With additional countries expected to join the circuit in the coming years, Move Afrika is steadily positioning Africa not just as a tour stop, but as a central pillar of the global touring economy.
