Ayra Starr Becomes First Woman in 16 Years to Win Best African Act at MOBO Awards

Ayra Starr has won the Best African Music Act at the 2025 MOBO Awards, becoming the first woman in 16 years to receive the honor.

The Nigerian singer also secured the Best International Music Act award at the ceremony held in Newcastle.

She triumphed over fellow Nigerian artists Asake and Tems, as well as South Africa’s Tyla, to win the Best African Music Act category.

For the Best International Music Act award, Ayra Starr outshined global stars including Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, Kendrick Lamar, Megan Thee Stallion, Tems, and Latto.

The MOBO Awards (Music of Black Origin Awards), established in 1996 by Kanya King, is an annual British music ceremony celebrating excellence in music of Black origin.

The awards recognize outstanding achievements across various genres, including hip-hop, R&B, soul, reggae, jazz, gospel, and African music.

The event, hosted by Indiyah Polack and Eddie Kadi, honored the best of Black music and culture, showcasing outstanding talents and achievements across various genres.

A post on the official MOBO X account read: “Global star, unstoppable force! @ayrastarr took home Best African Music Act at the #MOBOAwards – repping African music at the highest level!”

In her acceptance speech, the visibly emotional singer said: “Okay, this is my first MOBO. And this is the first time I’m winning a MOBO Award—make some noise! I am actually shaking right now. I am actually nervous.

“Thank you so much to everybody who supported me. Thank you to my team—my amazing MOB-STARS.

“My amazing brothers who make music with me—the producers in the studio—my studio partners in crime; my label—MAVINS record, Embryo, my mummy…

“Thank you so much. Thank you, MOBOs.”