Kisumu, Kenya,— Brace yourselves for an unprecedented cultural extravaganza as FESTAC AFRICA 2024 takes centre stage in the beautiful city of Kisumu from 20th – 26th May 2024. This year’s festival is poised to be another historic milestone, setting a new standard for festivals in the heart of Africa. The host city, Kisumu, renowned for its vibrant youth culture, sports legacy, and rich arts scene, has been chosen to usher in this momentous event with enthusiasm and zeal.
The official pre-launch of FESTAC AFRICA 2024 commenced on the 18th of October, 2023, with a series of remarkable events that set the stage for what promises to be an extraordinary festival. Organized by the Mama Grace Onyango Cultural & Social Centre, the pre-launch event was graced by dignitaries and luminaries, each contributing to the festival’s significance. Led by CEO Mr. Obat Masira, the event initiated a Youth Empowerment session, engaging over 300 students, with a captivating lecture by Prof. PLO Lumumba on “The Role of Our Youth in Shaping Africa’s Future.”
The highlight of the ceremony was the official declaration and endorsement by Kisumu County Governor, His Excellency Hon. Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o, who extended a warm welcome to the festival, recognizing its importance for the city and the African continent as a whole underlining its significance.
Distinguished guests in attendance included Prof. PLO Lumumba, FESTAC AFRICA Chairman – Engr. Yinka Abioye, FESTAC AFRICA CEO – Grace Mumo, FESTAC AFRICA Festival Director – Lehlohonolo Peega, FESTAC AFRICA Ambassador and Kenya Diaspora Alliance (KDA) representative – Dr. FCPA Rosemary Gituma, FESTAC AFRICA Ambassador – Naomi Mwende, MD and CEO of United Bank for Africa (UBA) – Mr. Chike Isiuwe, ex-Chairman of Standard Chartered Bank in Kenya – Mr. Patrick Obath, among others.
In a statement by FESTAC AFRICA Chairman Engr. Yinka Abioye, the festival’s core mission was eloquently reinforced: “FESTAC AFRICA is about uniting Africans from all over the world.” With Kisumu, Kenya, as the backdrop for this prestigious event, delegates and attendees can anticipate a remarkable celebration of Africa’s rich tapestry, culture, and unity.
MD and CEO of United Bank For Africa Kenya Limited (UBA), Mr. Chike Isiuwe, inspired the youth with an encouraging call to engage in Youth Empowerment Programs designed to showcase their business skills and acumen.
Prof. PLO Lumumba, in his illuminating Youth Lecture, challenged the young minds to take learning seriously and delve deeper into understanding the profound significance of African culture. He underscored the pivotal role that culture plays in our society and encouraged the youth to explore this fundamental aspect of their heritage.
In absentia Prof. Emaretus Ratemo Michieka, Chairman of Nairobi Research Fund and former Vice Chancellor of Jomo Kenyatta University, sent his message for the Declaration ceremony stating “I Pledge my support to ensure that the Great Lakes region and its waters are environmentally protected. To educate East African populace on the need to preserve its unique abundant water bodies and enviable biodiversity. This will be my thrust!!! Count on me.” Professor Emeritus Ratemo Michieka
The day culminated in a vibrant Arts Exhibition by the Mama Grace Onyango Artists and a captivating fashion show. Over 60 talented youth from the centre delivered captivating performances, leaving the audience in awe.
If the success of this pre-launch event is any indication, delegates can anticipate an unforgettable experience during the May 2024 festival. FESTAC AFRICA is set to showcase Kisumu, Kenya, as the premier travel destination of choice for Africa Month 2024
FESTAC AFRICA 2024, carrying the theme “Sustainable Growth Trajectory for Africa through Culture, Trade, Travel and Tourism with a core focus to Educate, Empower and Embrace using Health Screening & Wellness Awareness, Mental Health, Dental Health, Youth Empowerment, Education, Sports, Leadership & Entrepreneurship, Trade, Fashion, Art, Music and Dance to Explore Africa and to have Fun.” is all about celebrating Africa’s diverse cultures, embracing unity, and charting a course towards sustainable growth. With a dynamic focus on education, empowerment, and embracing the African spirit, this festival promises to be a life-changing experience.
The festival’s agenda is nothing short of spectacular, with an array of activities that will leave you spellbound. Starting from the 19th of May, the One-Stop opening ceremony will kick off this electrifying week. The festival’s core theme underscores its commitment to advancing impactful and life changing areas including Health Screening & Wellness Awareness, Mental Health, Dental Health, Youth Empowerment, Education, Sports, Leadership & Entrepreneurship, Trade, Fashion, Art, Music, and Dance. Daily, FESTAC AFRICA 2024 will be crowned with various cultural performances from artists and performances from across the continent and beyond giving a holistic experience that celebrates and promotes the richness of African culture and heritage.
FESTAC AFRICA 2024 seeks to unite people, nations, and generations through a vibrant tapestry of cultures and traditions. The festival will not only celebrate Africa’s fashion and modelling scene but will also indulge your taste buds in a culinary experience like never before, introducing you to the continent’s exquisite cuisines. African music and dance will take centre stage, highlighting Africa’s extraordinary contributions to the global arts scene. In the spirit of unity, the festival will also showcase various sports, reinforcing the importance of teamwork, discipline, and excellence.
We are excited to announce our commitment to environmental sustainability with the “Keep Kisumu Green” initiative, providing delegates with a chance to plant trees. This is not only a noble cause but a practical step towards mitigating climate change and global warming.
Education is central to our mission. FESTAC AFRICA 2024 aims to nurture bright minds through accessible and inclusive learning. We empower the youth with opportunities, breaking barriers, and cultivating leadership, innovation, and ambition.
Wellness and health awareness are our top priorities, addressing the well-being of the mind, body, and spirit. We will shine a light on the importance of mental and dental health and provide resources to support mental wellness.
The festival will feature distinguished leaders and influential social media personalities who will inspire and engage the youth with motivational talks and guidance. Our event will also celebrate African excellence in various fields, including leadership, business, fashion, art, music, and dance.
Kisumu’s rich cultural heritage and strong youth and sports culture make it the perfect host for this pan-African festival. The city’s vibrant atmosphere provides an ideal setting for an event that embodies unity, progress, and opportunity.
FESTAC AFRICA 2024 is more than a festival; it’s an unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa’s soul. Don’t miss this historic event that will unite us in a common celebration of our shared heritage.
If the success of this pre-launch event is any indication, delegates can anticipate an unforgettable experience during the May 2024 festival. FESTAC AFRICA is set to showcase Kisumu, Kenya, as the premier travel destination of choice for Africa Month in 2024.
For more information on how you could participate, please visit https://festacafrica.org.
Follow on FESTAC AFRICA FESTIVAL 2024 on the following social media handles:
https://www.facebook.com/FestacAfrica/
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https://www.instagram.com/festacafrica/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/festacafrica/
