Ouagadougou: Burkinabe music star Florent B©lemgn¨gr©, known as Floby, clinched the prestigious Kund© d’Or award for 2025, marking his third win in the award’s history. The accolade, considered the highest honor for musicians in Burkina Faso, was announced Friday evening, as noted by AIB.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Floby was one of three major contenders, alongside Tanya and Kayawoto. His acclaimed album “Burkina Faso” secured him the top honor. Expressing his gratitude, Floby thanked his supporters, the organizing committee, and the people of Burkina Faso, attributing his win to the hard work of his team.
Floby emphasized the significance of the award, stating, “It means that I am not resting on my laurels. I am working. It means that we do not give the Kund© to whoever we want. We give to the most deserving.” Despite Tanya winning the public vote with 43% and receiving accolades for Best Female Artist and Best Music Video, the jury’s selection favored Floby.
In his acceptance speech, Floby dedicated his award to the country’s defense and security forces (FDS), the volunteers for the defense of the homeland (VDP), and the national authorities, underscoring the collective effort for peace in Burkina Faso.
Floby also received honors for Most Played Artist in a Club and Best Modern Song Inspired by Tradition. Other notable winners included Sister Anne Marie Kabor© for Best Religious Music Artist, Salif Widga for Best Traditional Artist, and numerous awards for collaborative efforts and emerging talents.
The Kund© d’Or, originally conceived as “Balafons d’Or” in 1996, aims to celebrate and promote Burkinabe and African music. The event was enlivened by performances from celebrated African artists, including Zitany Neil and Oumou Dioubat©. The ceremony was presided over by Emile Zerbo, Minister of State for Territorial Administration, and Edasso Bayala, Minister of Justice, alongside promoter Jah Press. A date has been set for next year’s celebration.