Davido, the Nigerian artist, Black Sherif from Ghana, and British-Gambian rapper J Hus have been officially announced as the headliners for the upcoming AfroFuture 2023 festival in Accra, Ghana. The festival is scheduled for December 28 and 29 and will take place at its traditional venue, the El Wak Stadium.
The event, previously known as Afrochella, is organized by the Culture Management Group and serves as a celebration of African culture, showcasing the works of creatives and entrepreneurs from across the continent. This year’s edition follows the theme of “Black Unification & Pan Africanism.” Organizers aim to honor the achievements of black pioneers across the diaspora, emphasizing their contributions to art, culture, and innovation. The festival also delves into topics such as global connections, shared experiences among Africans and in pan-African history, and the diaspora’s political role.
AfroFuture’s co-founder and CEO, Abdul Karim Abdullah, emphasized the festival’s significance, stating, “AfroFuture has always been more than just a festival; it’s a full-circle celebration of everything African – our culture, our people, our talents.” He expressed excitement about the upcoming event, promising a unique experience blending the worlds of food, art, fashion, and music for their global supporters.
Kenny Agyapong, AfroFuture’s COO and co-founder, added that the festival contributes to Ghana’s tourism and hospitality sectors by attracting international visitors to experience not only their events but also the broader offerings of Ghana. He highlighted AfroFuture’s role in fostering engagement, increasing interest, and boosting tourism in Ghana, making it a premier destination for travelers worldwide.
In addition to the festival, AfroFuture 2023 features various other activities. The Afro Expo 2023 is a two-week event offering digital experiences, wellness sessions, screenings, and panel discussions. These discussions cover topics such as culture, technology, health, film, music, and art, creating a platform for connecting the diaspora with industry experts and changemakers actively creating opportunities in Africa.
The Black Ambition Pitch Competition is a day-long entrepreneurship contest, where participants have the chance to win up to $5,000 for their businesses.
The AfroFuture Music Museum provides a unique blend of visual and musical experiences, featuring live performances, art installations, and a wealth of digital and printed material.
Aspiring artists from across the continent can take part in the Rising Star Challenge by submitting their musical profiles for consideration. Those selected will have the opportunity to perform at the 2023 AfroFuture Festival, with significant prizes including cash rewards and a studio session with a prominent producer.
Additionally, the AfroFuture x Black Film Space Film Competition is a collaboration with the non-profit organization Black Film Space, focusing on curating short films created by Ghanaian filmmakers. The winning filmmaker will receive a cash prize and an all-expenses-paid trip to attend the Cannes Film Festival.
