FULL LIST OF WINNERS: Joshua Baraka and Ava Peace dominate a sold-out 2025 HiPipo Music Awards gala
The 2025 HiPipo Music Awards concluded as a resounding success, once again demonstrating its pivotal role in celebrating and promoting African musical talent on a grand stage.
The 14th consecutive HiPipo Music Awards proved to be a spectacular, sell-out success on November 14th, transforming the Kampala Serena Hotel into a vibrant hub of African music and glamour. The 2025 edition saw breakthrough sensations Joshua Baraka and Ava Peace emerge as the night’s biggest winners, capturing multiple prestigious accolades.
The evening commenced with a dazzling 200-meter red carpet, setting a glamorous tone for the full-house attendance. Nakato Alice Events Consultancy’s world-class cinematic production ensured a breathtaking visual experience, perfectly complementing the rich tapestry of African creativity on display.
Attendees were treated to a string of electrifying performances that kept the energy high throughout the evening. Stand-out acts included the dynamic Khalifa Aganaga, the ever-popular MUN G, and multiple award-winner Ava Peace.
A unique instrumental collaboration between Happy Kyazze on the Saxophone and Augustine Mukisa on the drums captivated the audience, alongside memorable sets from Carol Komeza, Serena Bata, and Roden Y Kabako.
The spotlight, however, shone brightest on Joshua Baraka, who cemented his status as a musical force by sweeping an impressive four major accolades. Baraka was crowned Africa’s Number One, East Africa’s Best Artist, Best Male Artist, and the highly coveted Artist of the Year, marking a dominant performance at the awards.
Sharing the top honors was Ava Peace, who claimed both the Breakthrough Artist of the Year and Female Artist of the Year awards, signaling her significant impact and rapid ascent in the music scene.
Other notable wins included Nandor Love’s “Kinawoluvu” which was recognized as the Most Viral Song, resonating widely across digital platforms. “See You Tonight” by Omega 256 and Cindy took home the prestigious Song of the Year award, celebrated for its widespread appeal and quality. Chella’s “My Darling” earned the title of Africa’s Best ACT/Song, showcasing cross-continental musical excellence.
In a truly moving moment of the night, Creamsite Junior School received the special Song of Change award for their captivating and thought-provoking song, “Wasomera Wa.” The accolade highlighted the power of music to inspire and provoke thought, extending beyond mere entertainment.
The 2025 HiPipo Music Awards concluded as a resounding success, once again demonstrating its pivotal role in celebrating and promoting African musical talent on a grand stage. The 14th consecutive year set a new benchmark for glamour, entertainment, and artistic triumph, leaving attendees eagerly anticipating future editions.
Full List of Winners.
A Song of Change
Wasomera Wa by Creamsite Junior School
Africa Best Act/Song
My Darling by Chella
Africa Number One
Joshua Baraka
East Africa Best Act/Song
True Love by The Ben
East Africa Best Artist
Joshua Baraka
Best Regional Song
Katusabe by Quin Smile
Breakthrough Artist
Ava Peace
Most Viral Song
Kinawolovu by Nandor Love
Song of the Year
See You Tonight by Omega 256 and Cindy Sanyu
Video of the Year
Somebody by Sheebah Karungi
Best Male Artist
Joshua Baraka
Best Female Artist
Ava Peace
Artiste of the Year
Joshua Baraka
The Lens of Greatness
Allan Soja
