Kisumu is set to host the fifth edition of the World Blacks and Africans Festival of Arts and Culture (Festac) later this month, from May 20 to 26.
Preparations are in full swing for this prestigious global event, marking another milestone in positioning Kisumu as a prominent hub for arts. The festival promises to significantly enhance the city's reputation and bolster its rich cultural heritage.
This event is also strategically aimed at boosting cultural tourism in the region, building on the success of the Africities festival, which brought thousands of international delegates to Kisumu just two years ago.
Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong’o announced that the city is fully prepared for the four-day festival. "We are well-equipped for this significant event," Governor Nyong’o stated. "This isn’t our first time hosting such a major occasion. We have a dedicated committee, the participants are confirmed, and all facilities are ready."
He highlighted the festival as a golden opportunity to emphasize the importance of culture in driving growth and development. "Arts and culture play a crucial role in our development. We want our children to understand and embrace African culture fully," he added. The governor is optimistic that the festival will open doors for new investment opportunities in the region.
Governor Nyong’o, who has been a strong advocate for the arts and is the father of acclaimed Hollywood actress Lupita Nyong’o, has been instrumental in transforming Kisumu’s arts scene. His efforts include the recent completion of the Fish Fiesta, a vibrant showcase of local talent featuring traditional dances, boat races, music, and beauty contests.
A cornerstone of this cultural revival is the revamped Mama Grace Onyango Hall, which will host this year’s Festac. Once neglected and marred by crime and neglect, the center has been revitalized into a beacon of Kisumu's arts community.
“We have rejuvenated the Grace Onyango Social Center, which had fallen into disrepair. We’ve rebuilt and modernized it, bringing in an active management team to restore its status as a cultural cornerstone,” Governor Nyong’o explained.
The festival's organizers chose Kisumu for its rich cultural heritage and strategic location by Lake Victoria, which connects the city to neighboring countries. Grace Mumo, CEO of Festac Africa Festival, cited the city's vibrant cultural scene and its geographical significance as key factors in the selection.
Beatrice Wadiaga, the County Executive Committee Member for Culture, revealed that Kisumu is currently selecting participants through its own cultural event, the Kisumu Arts and Cultural Festival. This will involve showcasing local and international cultures.
“We have invited other counties and embassies to participate and display their cultures during the festival. We encourage everyone globally to join us and experience the richness of arts and culture,” Wadiaga said.
Victor Nyagaya, CEO of the Lake Region Economic Block (LREB), echoed her sentiments, noting that the Festac event will provide a platform for Africans and the global community to celebrate and discuss their cultural heritage.
“We anticipate attendees from across Africa and beyond, reflecting the diverse and rich cultural tapestry of the African diaspora,” Nyagaya added.