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.
Berlin’s largest public square, Alexanderplatz, will transform into a vibrant African cultural fair when the 2024 Kenako Africa Festival kicks off on Friday, 23 August.
This annual celebration, running until 1 September, features a rich array of activities, including live music, dance, fashion shows, culinary experiences, and craft markets.
The 2024 musical lineup boasts artists from across the continent, showcasing genres from Afrobeat and reggae to jazz and traditional music.
Headlining the festival are Wiyaala, the Afro-pop star from Ghana; Princesse Fina from Burkina Faso; Wura Samba, a top Nigerian percussionist; and Senegalese powerhouse Marema. Additional performers include French-Malian artist Astan KA, Burundian drummers Ingoma, Berlin’s reggae band Crownforest, West African dance group Maobe, and Aly Keïta, the acclaimed balafon player and winner of the 2022 Special Instruments German Jazz Prize.
Each performance offers a glimpse into Africa’s diverse cultures and traditions.
Beyond the music, Kenako Festival is a feast for the senses. Food stalls will feature a variety of dishes from North, West, East, and Southern Africa, including spicy West African jollof rice, fragrant Moroccan tagines, and Ethiopian injera with doro wat. The festival’s culinary offerings provide an immersive experience into Africa’s rich gastronomic traditions.
The marketplace is another highlight, where artisans from across Africa display and sell their crafts. From intricate beadwork to traditional clothing, the market offers unique, handmade items that reflect the creativity of African artisans, supporting both the artists and their communities.
Kenako Africa Festival is more than a cultural celebration; it’s a platform for dialogue and exchange. Workshops, panel discussions, and talks will address topics like sustainable development, the role of women in African societies, and the challenges and opportunities of the African diaspora, fostering a deeper understanding of the continent’s contributions to global society.
Femi Awoniyi
