THE AFRICAN COURIER. Reporting Africa and its Diaspora! The African Courier is an international magazine published in Germany to report on Africa and the Diaspora African experience. The first issue of the bimonthly magazine appeared on the newsstands on 15 February 1998. The African Courier is a communication forum for European-African political, economic and cultural exchanges, and a voice for Africa in Europe.
Europe’s biggest event for African music and culture kicks off on Thursday, 25 May in the city of Würzburg. The 29th International Africa Festival, which parades like every year the best of African artists, features a variety of events to make it a must visit for fans of African cultural expressions.
From 25-28 May, Würzburg will once again play hosts to top-notch musicians of the like of Salif Keita, the legend from Mali, Sara Tavares from Cape Verde Fatoumata Diawara, the Mali Blues maestro with a poetic voice, and Wally Ballago Seck, Senegals’s new superstar.
Among the other artistes to play in Würzburg are Dellé, the Ghanaian-German exponent of hot reggae vibes, Marema Fall, the power-woman from Senegal, and Eneida Marta, who has been described as the big voice of Guinea-Bissau. Not to forget: Sister Fa, the Hip-Hop, Rap & Soul Queen from Senegal, Ahouefa “Fafa” Ruffino, whose voice has been likened to that of Angeliqué Kidjo in her younger years, and … In fact, the line-up in Würzburg is very long.
The 29th Africa Festival will not only live up to the event’s tradition of parading big, well-known names. This year will also feature up-and-coming or lesser-known artistes. Fans should gear up for sweet surprises!
Going by the list of musicians, great performances can be expected on the Mainwiesen, the venue of the festival on the bank of the River Main, this year again.
Visually, there is a little surprise for the visitors at the Maiwiesen this year, as there is a new circus tent in beautiful blue. It offers more space and seating. Also the children’s tent is new: brighter, airy, with a flooring that is ideal for the little ones.
Also new: visitors can enjoy Cuban music daily from 2 to 10 pm at the Open Air Cocktail Lounge. Original Cuban cocktails such as Mojito and Cuba Libre will be served. The chill-out area, with cosy sun loungers, umbrellas and Cuban music, invites visitors to relax.
Apart from music, Würzburg will feature bazaars, workshops, film programmes, art exhibitions, and podium discussions and other activities that make the town a veritable African cultural experience at festival time.
Vivian Asamaoh
More festival information at: www.africafestival.org
