The highly anticipated FESTAC Africa Festival kicked off in Kisumu County, Kenya, on Monday, August 26, 2024, with an impressive opening ceremony at the Jomo Kenyatta Stadium.
The event, which will span a week, was graced by notable dignitaries, including former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga, and Kisumu County Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o.
The ceremony featured vibrant performances by cultural troupes, singers, and dancers from across Africa, including Kenya, Nigeria, and Tanzania. Among the performers were the Kenya-based band Les Wanyika, Burundi Dancers, and Nigeria’s Benny Willis Wallace, who captivated the audience with their talent.
Yinka Abioye, Chairman of FESTAC Africa International, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of African unity and urging the continent to overcome its divisions. He highlighted the shared values that bind Africans together and lamented how these bonds are often undermined.
Former President Obasanjo, reflecting on the festival’s history, expressed nostalgia for the return of the Festival of Arts and Culture. He recalled the second edition held in Nigeria in 1977 during his tenure as military head of state, noting its success in bringing together black people from around the world. Obasanjo also praised Yinka Abioye for his dedication to reviving FESTAC.
Raila Odinga, in his remarks, called for the continuous celebration of African culture, fashion, entertainment, and business, aligning with the African Union Commission’s charter. He emphasized the need for greater integration across the continent and advocated for the removal of barriers hindering intra-African trade.
The festival, which officially began with a grand reopening ceremony on Sunday, August 25, at Dunga Hill Camp, includes a diverse range of activities. Events scheduled for the week include a special ‘Dinner in the Dark’ project, trade and investment summits, cultural nights, and a climate change summit. A fashion business dialogue, cultural performances, and an afro-fusion fashion show are also planned.
The festival will culminate in a series of events, including the ‘Trinidad and Tobago All-White Party’ and the ‘Open Africa Market Day’ on Saturday, August 31. The highlight of the festival, the Africa Gala Dinner and Awards Night, will honor individuals contributing to the growth of tourism in Africa.
Traditional performances will feature acts such as the Burundi Drummers and the Ahero Greeners’ Dodo Dance from Kenya, while modern performances will include artists like Spitter 99 from Kenya, Empress Aje from Trinidad and Tobago, and Kim Poole from the United States.
Fashion designers from across Africa will also showcase their work, and several films will be screened, including titles like “Daughter of the Lake,” “Silent Disease,” and “A Dry White Season.”