As the vibrant months of August and September approach, Africa gears up for a series of cultural festivals that celebrate the continent’s rich heritage and diversity. Highlighting this season is FESTAC AFRICA 2024. Other notable events include the Gaborone International Music and Culture Week in Botswana, the Maralal Camel Derby in Kenya, and the Umhlanga Reed Dance in Eswatini. Each festival offers unique experiences, from exhilarating camel races to traditional dances, fostering community spirit and cultural pride.
Africa’s Biggest Festival Ever is Back and in Kenya This Time
From August 25th to September 1st, 2024, Kisumu, Kenya will transform into a vibrant hub of cultural celebration and unity as it hosts FESTAC AFRICA 2024. Known as Africa’s oldest festival, FESTAC AFRICA aims to unite black people, Africans, and descendants of Africa in the diaspora through a grand showcase of the continent’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. For more information, visit www.festacafrica.org.
FESTAC AFRICA, with its theme “Sustainable Growth Trajectory for Africa through Culture, Trade, Travel, and Tourism,” focuses on education, empowerment, and embracing the continent’s unique diversity. The festival’s goal is to highlight Africa’s potential and celebrate its vibrant art, music, dance, fashion, food, heritage, and storytelling. Engr. Yinka Abioye, the FESTAC Africa Chairman, emphasized the importance of embracing diaspora talent and skills to contribute to Africa’s growth, regardless of their location.
A Brief History and Significance
Stevie Wonder at FESTAC 77
First held in 1966 in Senegal and later in Nigeria in 1977, FESTAC grew exponentially, attracting over 500,000 attendees in its Nigerian edition from its initial 5,000 participants. The festival is not just an event but a movement aimed at reconnecting black and African people worldwide, celebrating their shared cultural and spiritual ties. Former Nigerian President H. E. Chief Olusegun Obasanjo eloquently captured the essence of FESTAC during his speech at FESTAC 77, highlighting the importance of rediscovering the bonds that unite all black and African peoples.
Highlights and Events
Kisumu will welcome delegates from 45 countries, making FESTAC AFRICA 2024 the biggest cultural festival on the continent. The festival will feature a myriad of activities, including:
- Daily Cultural Activities: From 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM, attendees can immerse themselves in cultural activations, dancing shows, modeling, poetry, and other talent showcases. The Boma Village Experience will run all day, offering a glimpse into traditional African village life, while sports activities, culinary experiences, and kids’ fun fair activities will keep visitors engaged and entertained.
- Business Conference and Exhibition: Starting with the flag hoisting ceremony at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, the festival will officially open with a business conference and exhibition. These events will facilitate discussions on Pan-African architecture, women entrepreneurship, food and agriculture, tourism, climate change, and more.
- Impact Projects: FESTAC AFRICA is committed to making a positive impact through initiatives such as blood donation drives, health screenings, gender-based violence awareness campaigns, and mental health wellness programs.
- Conferences and Summits: Various conferences will take place, including the Trade and Investment Summit, Africa-Asia Investment Summit, and sessions on STEM education, peace and security, and the business of luxury in Africa. These conferences aim to foster dialogue and collaboration on key issues affecting the continent.
- Gala Dinners and Awards Nights: The festival will feature exclusive networking events like the “Dinner in the Dark,” Africa-India Culture Night, Afro Fusion Runway Experience, and the Africa Gala Dinner and Awards Night. These events provide opportunities for attendees to celebrate African achievements and forge new connections.
Travel Information
All delegates traveling to Kenya must apply for an online visa within 72 hours of travel. For visa applications, please visit this link.
Join the Celebration
FESTAC AFRICA 2024 promises to be an unforgettable experience, celebrating the richness of African culture and heritage. Join us in Kisumu for a week of learning, sharing, and celebrating Africa’s diversity and potential. Don’t miss the chance to be part of Africa’s biggest cultural festival. For more details and to stay updated, visit www.festacafrica.org
Location: Kisumu, Kenya
Dates: August 25th to September 1st, 2024
Contact: Tel: +267 391 3111
Email: www.festacafrica.org
Gaborone International Music and Culture Week (GIMC)
Location: Gaborone, Botswana
Dates: End of August to the first week of September
Contact: Tel: +267 391 3111
Email: marketing@botswanatourism.co.bw
https://www.botswanatourism.co.bw/index.php/events/gaborone-international-and-music-festival-gimc
Experience the vibrant spirit of Gaborone at the annual Gaborone International Music and Culture Week (GIMC). This dynamic, weeklong event celebrates the diversity of arts and culture in Botswana, featuring activities such as family fun days, fitness and aerobics sessions, jazz performances, champagne parties, artist workshops, theater, poetry, comedy, Clap n Tap, and music festivals. With top local artists and international talent, GIMC offers a rich array of cultural celebrations. A portion of the proceeds supports deserving NGOs, particularly those uplifting the less fortunate. Don’t miss this exciting week of festivities and community support in Gaborone.
Ga Dangbe Homowo Festival
Location: Various locations in Ghana
Dates: Saturday, July 6, 2024 – Tuesday, August 20, 2024
Contact: Call Center +231 579579019 or visitghana.com/attractions/homowo-festival/
Celebrate the Ga Dangbe Homowo Festival, a vibrant series of events held across Ghana. Starting with Nungua Kpeledzoo celebrations on July 6 and concluding with multiple celebrations on August 20 in locations such as Kpone, Osu, La, Tɛshi, Prampram, and Ningo, this festival is rich in cultural heritage. Highlights include cultural celebrations, traditional rites, and performances. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience the rich traditions of the Ga people and support deserving NGOs.
Maralal Camel Derby
Location: Samburu, Kenya
Dates: August 23-25, 2024
Contact: 254 753 029 209 or info@samburunationalreservekenya.com
Website: samburunationalreservekenya.com
Join us for the Maralal Camel Derby in Samburu, Kenya, from August 23-25, 2024. This thrilling event attracts participants and spectators from around the globe, offering exciting camel races through the stunning landscapes of Samburu. Besides the races, enjoy cultural performances, local cuisine, and vibrant market stalls. The derby promotes eco-tourism and supports local communities, making it a fun and impactful event. Don’t miss the chance to experience this unique celebration of culture and adventure.
Zanzibar Mwaka Kogwa Festival
Location: Zanzibar, Tanzania
Dates: Late July to Early August 2024
Contact: Hassan Tours and Safaris (+255-714-218-820)
Website: https://rove.me/to/zanzibar/mwaka-kogwa-festival
Experience the vibrant Mwakakogwa Festival in Zanzibar, Tanzania, held from late July to early August 2024. This lively event marks the Shirazi New Year with traditional songs, dances, and mock fights symbolizing the cleansing of past grievances. Villagers don colorful attire and participate in joyful parades and rituals, celebrating unity and renewal. Immerse yourself in Zanzibar’s rich cultural heritage and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to witness an authentic African tradition.
Umhlanga Reed Dance
Location: Ludzidzini Royal Village, Eswatini
Dates: Late August to Early September 2024
Contact: https://www.thekingdomofeswatini.com/eswatini-experiences/events/umhlanga-reed-dance/
Celebrate the Umhlanga Reed Dance, the largest cultural festival in the Kingdom of Eswatini, at Ludzidzini Royal Village from late August to early September 2024. This vibrant cultural event gathers thousands of Swazi maidens who present reeds to the Queen Mother, showcasing their dedication and purity. The festival is marked by traditional dances, songs, and vibrant attire, offering a unique glimpse into Swazi culture and traditions. Join the celebration and witness the beauty and unity of Eswatini’s heritage. For more information, visit https://www.thekingdomofeswatini.com/eswatini-experiences/events/umhlanga-reed-dance/.
Gerewol Festival
Location: In-Gall, Niger
Dates: September 2024
Contact: +441473 328546 or info@nativeeyetravel.com
Experience the mesmerizing Gerewol Festival in In-Gall, Niger, this September 2024. This unique male beauty contest features the Wodaabe Fula men adorned in ornate costumes and elaborate make-up, competing for the attention of young women. The festival includes rhythmic dancing, notably the famous yaake dance, and intense competitions such as camel racing. Drawing tourists from around the world, the Gerewol offers a captivating glimpse into the rich traditions of the Wodaabe people.
Lake of Stars Festival
Location: Lake Malawi, Malawi
Dates: September 27-29, 2024
Contact: +265 991 408 695/+265 997 349 118 or info@lakeofstars.org and lakeofstars2024@gmail.com
Join the vibrant Lake of Stars Festival on the shores of Lake Malawi from September 27-29, 2024. This renowned music and arts festival attracts international and local artists, offering a diverse lineup of music, dance, poetry, and visual arts. Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Malawi, the festival celebrates culture and creativity while promoting tourism and supporting local communities. Enjoy three days of unforgettable performances, workshops, and beach activities in a beautiful setting.
