Benin Hosts SIMA 2026, Discusses AI Impact on Music Industry

The third edition of the Salon des industries musicales d’Afrique francophone (SIMA) was held in Cotonou, Benin, from November 16 to 17, 2026. On the sidelines of the event, a panel discussion was organized by the Bureau béninois du droit d’auteur et des droits voisins (BUBEDRA) on November 12, 2026. The discussion focused on the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the music industry, with artists, producers, and institutional representatives in attendance.

The panel featured a practical demonstration of AI's capabilities in music creation. Artists Hiro and Crédo showcased how AI tools, such as ChatGPT and Suno, can be used to create music quickly and efficiently. The demonstration resulted in a reggae song being produced in a short amount of time, which was well-received by the audience. Hiro, a French-Congolese artist, initially had reservations about AI, fearing it would replace human artists. However, he now sees AI as a tool that can save time and enhance creativity.

Crédo emphasized the importance of education and training in mastering AI tools. He encouraged artists to develop their skills and knowledge to effectively utilize AI and maintain their unique identity. The demonstration and discussion highlighted the potential of AI to accelerate music production, but also raised concerns about the authenticity of AI-generated works and the potential risks to artists' livelihoods.

The second panel discussion focused on the impact of AI on employment, economic development, and the music industry. The discussion, moderated by Eugène Aballo, director general of BUBEDRA, brought together experts from various fields, including Guillaume Fagbohoun, a producer and founder of Scomight Music. Fagbohoun noted that AI is changing the music industry, with some tasks being automated, and emphasized the need for professionals to adapt and find ways to work with AI.

Idriss Bengeloune, a technical advisor at the Ministry of Transformation and Innovation, highlighted the need for Africa to develop its own AI solutions and not rely solely on foreign technology. He mentioned that the national strategy for AI aims to train 10,000 people in AI development and value creation by 2030. The discussion also touched on the issue of data storage and the need for African countries to have control over their own data.

The SIMA 2026 event and panel discussions demonstrate the growing interest in the intersection of technology and music in Africa. The use of AI in music creation presents both opportunities and challenges, and it is essential for artists, producers, and policymakers to engage with these issues. By developing their skills and knowledge, African artists and producers can harness the potential of AI to enhance their creativity and competitiveness.

The event also highlighted the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing in the music industry. The discussions and demonstrations showcased the potential for AI to enhance music creation, but also emphasized the need for careful consideration of the implications of AI on the industry. As the music industry continues to evolve, it is crucial for stakeholders to work together to ensure that the benefits of AI are equitably distributed and that the rights of artists and creators are protected.

Key points

• The use of AI in music creation can accelerate production and enhance creativity, but also raises concerns about authenticity and the potential risks to artists' livelihoods.