FESTAC AFRICA Festival 2024, the theme “Celebrating the Heartbeat of Africa: Culture, Unity, and Innovation,” attracted participants from over 62 countries and beyond to Kisumu, Kenya. Guests included artists, entrepreneurs, and cultural ambassadors from across the continent, as well as representatives of the African diaspora.

This made the week-long event dedicated to African music, art, fashion, cookery, and entrepreneurship a unique platform for cultural exchange and business networking. TV BRICS is the media partner of the event.

The opening ceremony of the festival was marked by prominent leaders’ speeches.

Yinka Abioye, Chairman of FESTAC AFRICA, spoke about the significance of the festival to the entire African continent.

“We aim for greater collaboration across the continent and beyond, and I look forward to seeing a vibrant Kenyan presence in this new chapter. Together, we are celebrating Africa’s boundless heritage, creativity, and innovation in a new land, with renewed energy, as we continue to tell the African story to the world,” he said.

On his part, Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o, Governor of Kisumu County, noted the importance of the festival in building Kisumu’s image on the international stage.

“FESTAC AFRICA has brought global attention to Kisumu, demonstrating our city’s capability to host large-scale international festivals. The event not only enhanced Kisumu’s global standing but also created job opportunities and a platform for local businesses to thrive,” he concluded.

Investment opportunities were also discussed during the festival week, leading to the signing of memoranda of understanding and partnerships during the week-long celebrations.

Throughout the festival week, FESTAC AFRICA collaborated with various medical practitioners and health organisations to provide essential health services to participants and the local community.

Thus, during the festival, more than 1,000 people received free health screenings that included comprehensive check-ups and health education.

FESTAC AFRICA is a leading cultural and business festival that raises key social issues such as gender equality, climate change, and health, as well as Africa’s positioning as a centre for innovation, trade, and tourism on the world stage.

Photo: FESTAC AFRICA