ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) -- MTV launches its first-ever music award program for Africa, with acts from across the world's poorest continent nominated for prizes in the Nigerian capital.

Peter Okoye of P-Square rehearses Friday for the MTV Africa Music Awards show in Abuja, Nigeria.
Alison Reid, a spokeswoman for MTV Networks Africa, says winners were being selected by fans sending text messages.
Africa has long featured a vibrant music scene, but artists have had difficulties breaking into overseas markets.
MTV hopes Saturday night's awards show offers the artists more exposure and celebrates the continent's artistry.
Nigerian R&B duo P-Square is competing in five categories including best group, best R&B act and the evening's top award, artist of the year. Performers from South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, Gabon and others are also nominated.
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