THE CREATIVE FRONTIER

Wits University Unveils AI & African Music Showcase in Johannesburg

JOHANNESBURG — The intersection of cultural heritage and machine learning took center stage this week as Wits University’s MIND Institute announced the final phase of its AI & African Music pilot project.

Funded by South African-born music executive Charles Goldstuck, the project has paired African musicians with AI engineers to solve a fundamental technical bias: most AI models are trained on Western tonal scales and rhythms.

Breakthrough Prototype: The showcase, scheduled for full release in April 2026, features the Bɛ̀bɛ̀i Engine. This AI tool is capable of transcribing complex polyphonic oral traditions from Central African indigenous communities into digital formats that can be legally protected and monetized.

Billboard Africa’s Editor-in-Chief, Nkosiyati Khumalo, noted that these projects "ensure Africa is a creator, not just a consumer, of the future’s creative tools."

SOURCE :

Wits University Official News — “Wits announces winners of AI & African Music Project” (Updated March 2026).

AgenParl (EU Media) — Official press release detailing the partnership with Charles Goldstuck and the winners from South Africa, Ghana, and the DRC.