CULTURAL FESTIVALS & EVENTS

IN ARIPO MEMBER STATES

2019
ISBN: 978-1-77929-566-8
Copyright © 2019 by ARIPO. All rights reserved. Except as permitted under the copyright legislation of an ARIPO
Member State, as the case may be, no part of this publication may be reproduced or distributed in any form, or by any
means, or stored in a database or retrieval system, without the prior written permission of the publisher.

Published by the ARIPO Office. Any correspondence on copyright and other issues contained in this publication
should be addressed to:

The Director General,

ARIPO Office,
No. 11 Natal Road,
Belgravia,
P.O. Box 4228,
HARARE.
Zimbabwe.

ISBN: 978-1-77929-566-8
CULTURAL FESTIVALS
& EVENTS IN ARIPO
MEMBER STATES

ARIPO
Harare, Zimbabwe
2019
 FOREWORD
It is with great delight that we present the first report on the Cultural festivals and events within ARIPO Member
States. Since the inclusion of copyright and related rights in the mandate of the Organization in 2002, ARIPO has
been working with its Member States with the aim of creating national environments that promote and provide
effective protection, management and enforcement of copyright and related rights in the respective Member States.
Under the strategies to consider in awareness raising programs, the government through the national copyright office
needs to play a leading role in raising awareness on copyright and Intellectual Property rights. This would require
devising strategies that leverage and take advantage of information and communication technology to disseminate
information for outreach and advocacy.

With that in mind, creativity can be linked with culture in a bid to raise copyright awareness, Culture can be used as
a vehicle for information dissemination about the need to protect and respect copyright. This could be done with
cultural messages wrapped in poetry, song and dance as well as initiatives such as drama.

Member States of ARIPO, Observer States and the general public are encouraged to use this report on the Cultural
festivals and events within ARIPO Member States to attract local and international tourism to see the cultural events
for socio-economic development and promoting international relations.

F.A dos Santos

Director General

4
 CONTENTS
FOREWORD.............................................................................................................................................................................................................4
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY...........................................................................................................................................................................................6
DISCLAIMER............................................................................................................................................................................................................6
ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS.......................................................................................................................................................................7
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS.........................................................................................................................................................................................7
BOTSWANA............................................................................................................................................................................................................8
KINGDOM OF ESWATINI.....................................................................................................................................................................................12
THE GAMBIA.........................................................................................................................................................................................................15
GHANA..................................................................................................................................................................................................................19
KENYA....................................................................................................................................................................................................................24
LESOTHO................................................................................................................................................................................................................26
LIBERIA..................................................................................................................................................................................................................28
MALAWI................................................................................................................................................................................................................30
MOZAMBIQUE.......................................................................................................................................................................................................34
NAMIBIA................................................................................................................................................................................................................36
RWANDA...............................................................................................................................................................................................................38
SÃO TOMÉ AND PRÍNCIPE..................................................................................................................................................................................41
SIERRA LEONE.......................................................................................................................................................................................................45
SUDAN...................................................................................................................................................................................................................47
TANZANIA.............................................................................................................................................................................................................50
ZAMBIA................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 53
ZIMBABWE...........................................................................................................................................................................................................56

5
 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Creative Industries are becoming more and more relevant for the economies of both developed and developing
countries. Africa has a comparative advantage on copyright where enormous potential of folklore and the creativity
of African people needs to be fully exploited for socio-economic development and socio-cultural development of a
Country. The festivals attract domestic and International tourism as they promote cultural identity and heritage of
the people. During these particular events a lot of activities that create employment and contribute to the Country’s
GDP are experienced. The report is the first of its kind and it shows some of the cultural activities that are usually
carried out in the Member States who participated in this study.

We hope that the report will be very useful to increase awareness on cultural festivals and events, attract local and
international tourism in the ARIPO Member States.

DISCLAIMER

The views, opinions, findings, conclusions and/or recommendations expressed in this Report are strictly those of the
author(s). The information contained in this publication is not meant as a substitute for professional legal or policy
advice.

6
 ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS
ARIPO - African Regional Intellectual Property Organization
ARSOG - Audiovisual Rights Society of Ghana
COPYGHANA - Reprographic Rights Organization of Ghana
CPP - Convention People’s Party
GA - Greater Accra
GCCI - Gambia Chamber of Commerce
GHAMRO - Ghana Music Rights Organization
GLC - Greater London Council
NAFAC - National Festival of Arts and Culture
NAMA - Namibian Annual Music Awards

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) appreciates the ARIPO Member States who
contributed to this publication. Special thanks to the Director General of ARIPO and the Intellectual Property
Development Division Executive for their support and guidance. ARIPO is grateful to all colleagues who assisted in
one way or the other to make this work a success. Thank you for your invaluable comments.

7
 BOTSWANA
Cultural Events

8
 from South Africa and Namibia attend this
event.

Shows are usually characterized by different

genres of music, showcasing of artwork like
jewelry, ceramic works and more.

1. Maitisong Festival
Maitisong festival takes place in March every
3. Kuru Dance Festival
year, and is a performing arts cornucopia of
This unique event takes place every August
comedy, poetry, traditional music, dance and
on the only Bushman-owned game farm in
theatre. The performances are held in various
Botswana. The Dqae Game Farm lies in the
places in Gaborone. The event lasts for nine
Kalahari Desert close to D’Kar and comes
full days and sees the entire population take
alive with storytelling, traditional dance
to the streets in carnival mode. This festival
and music for three days. The Game Farm
has been running for the past twenty-one
is located in about one thousand three
(21) years.
hundred and seventy (1, 370) kilometers from
Gaborone. The main performers are Basarwa
For images of the festival, please search
(Bushmen) mainly from Botswana and
for the name of the festival through
some from Namibia. This festival is popular
Google and refer to the bing.com/images.
and attracts international spectators,
More information can be found on www.
photographers and other lovers of culture.
maitisong.org website link and the Festival
Facebook page called ‘Maitisong Theatre’.
The organizers of the event can be contacted
at [email protected] or +267 397 1809.
6. Gaborone International
Music Festival
Gaborone International Music Festival
(GIMC) is a multi-discipline event that
celebrates Gaborone city and its residents. It
is held every end of August and it showcases
cultural celebrations, comedy, poetry, music

4. Letlhafula Cultural
festival, fashion, jazz and golf to name a
few. Performers are selected from across the

2. Maun Festival
region and internationally. It also features
Festival top local artists to perform in this event.

This festival is held in Maun, which is in the Letlhafula is a festival that encourages
North-West part of Botswana. Traditional farmers to produce their own food and
poetry, music and dance are the hallmarks sustain themselves. At the event, it is
of the Maun Festival, held over a two-day mainly traditional food that is served.
period in April every year. Visual arts are Traditional song and dance, poetry and
also celebrated in this Festival, which is others. This is a one day event that also offers
held for the benefit of local schools, as well traditional entertainment through poetry
as honoring Botswana’s northwestern rich and traditional games. This event is held in

7. Son of the Soil Festival

tribal culture. Gaborone.

Tjilenje Cultural Festival

This festival takes place in May annually. It
5. Dithubaruba Cultural The Festival started in Tlokweng in 2005 to
is held in Nlapkwane village which is in the Festival provide a platform where people can learn
North East of Botswana. Traditional activities and enjoy Botswana culture. The main event
include traditional games, music, dances and This is a cultural event held in Molepolole to which is usually accompanied by a workshop,
commemorate and preserve the Bakwena is used to showcase Botswana culture and
stalls crammed with local food and drink.
Culture. Molepolole is 60km west of to celebrate the evolution from historical
Gaborone. It is a cultural extravaganza that to futuristic cultural dress in Botswana. The
seeks to showcase and promote the cultures main activities include traditional song
existent within Kweneng region, traditional and dance, traditional games and food,
regalia and cuisine, traditional songs and traditional attire and other activities. The
dance. It is usually held around September festival is celebrated annually in a selected
every year. It is a festival organized by Kgari area in Gaborone.
Sechele Museum in Molepolole. Bakwena
9
8. National Basket and
Craft Exhibition
13. Baga Mmangwato
This is an exhibition that promotes diverse
talents. It has various categories such as
basket production, pottery, textile, tapestry,
11. Western Kgalagadi Heritage Day
wood carving, ceramics and beadwork. It is
Cultural Association
The event aims to instill a sense of identity
held annually in Gaborone and is promoted (WKCA) Festival and pride among the Bangwato dance,
by Botswana Tourism Organization. This is music, drama and poetry. It aims to promote
an exhibition that promotes diverse talents. The Cultural Association has been formed understanding and appreciation of the
It has various categories such as basket by members from villages in the Western Ngwato cultural heritage, creating leisure
production, pottery, textile, tapestry, wood Kgalagadi region namely Inalegolo, time for nationals. It is held annually
carving, ceramics and beadwork. It is held Phuduhudu, New Xade, Zutshwa, Maake, in Serowe village, 310km northward of
annually in Gaborone and is promoted by Ngwatle, Monong, Kacgae, Kokotsha and Gaborone.
Botswana Tourism Organization. Ncaang. It is a festival aimed at increasing
tourist flows to the Western Kgalagadi For more information, please refer to the
Conservation Corridor and was established in Facebook page of Baga mmangwato heritage
2010. It shares and promotes the San culture through the link below.
and other ethnic groups in the project area. It h t t p s : / / w w w. f a c e b o o k .c o m / B a g a -
creates a platform for cultural exchange and Mmangwato-Heritage-day-466531186885751
is a two day festival. In the past, the festival
has been held in Kang. Kang is 405km from
Gaborone.

9. Batlokwa Cultural
Festival
This is an event aimed at preserving Setlokwa
culture. It brings together Batlokwa from
Botswana and South Africa to celebrate their
heritage. It is usually celebrated annually in
Tlokweng village. Tlokweng is an outskirt of
14. Chama Open
Gaborone. It is a tri-monthly tournament based on the

10. Basubiya Cultural 12. Mmakgodumo traditional marbles game Chama aka Gololo.
This event takes place in Gaborone.
Heritage and Cultural For more on the games and images, please
Festival Festival refer to the link below.
https://www.facebook.com/setsogames/
This is a display of culture and heritage. It It is an annual event designed to celebrate, videos/1821841704727676
is marked by traditional dance, traditional revive and embrace the Ngwaketse culture.
wear like Mushishi colourful skirts. This On the day, there is display of traditional
festival celebrates the history of Basubiya. food, poetry, songs, dance, dikgafela and
The Festival is held annually in Kavimba mephato. The festival is usually held in
village in the Chobe region of Botswana, and Kanye, 100km south west of Gaborone.
is 1005km from the country’s capital city.
For more information, please refer to the
link below; https://www.facebook.com/
Mmakgodumo-Heritage-and-cultural-
festival
10
 21.
The Festival hosts competitions of different
Wayeyi traditional groups to honor the Presidents’ Day
Wayeyi culture. The festival takes place
in Gumare village, 1005km north west of Celebrations
Gaborone. The Wayeyi from Namibia are
usually invited to this event. Botswana’s President’s Day Celebrations
are held during a four-day national holiday
held in July across the country on annual

18. Annual Clash of the

basis. Batswana usually return to their home
villages for celebrations of their culture. The
holiday is marked by competitions involving
Choirs performances such as dance, poetry,

15.
traditional music, and photography.
It is a musical event involving singing
The Hamptons Jazz competition between choirs. It is held in
Festival
22.
various locations in Botswana. In the year
2016, it was hosted in Lobatse and moved to Gchwihaba Cultural
Gaborone in 2017.
It is an annual jazz festival featuring jazz Festival
artists from Botswana and around the world.

19.
It is usually held in Gaborone, the capital city The Festival serves as a gateway for tourists
of Botswana.
For images and more information, please
Khawa Dune to appreciate the cultural heritage of
communities living in the Gchwihaba area,
refer to bing.com/videos and www. Challenge and Cultural 1, 520km from Gaborone. It enables people
hamptons-jazzfestival.com.
Festival to learn about Basarwa and Baherero’s way
of life. It is usually held at the Gchwihaba
This is an annual event held in Khawa in caves at Xaxa settlement in the North West
Kgalagadi South, 758km from Gaborone. District. The festival is organized by Gcae
It aims to assist people of Khawa to sustain Gcae Tlhabologo Community Trust.
themselves using the tourism industry. It has

23.
a wide range of cultural activities involving
music, food, camel riding and motor races. It
is usually held at the beginning of May and Morobosi Cultural
is a great international tourist attraction. Festival
The festival also comprises of showcasing
the lifestyle of Kgalagadi people and their This is a Tswapong cultural festival celebrated
famous Polka Dance. under the name Morobosi Cultural Festival. It
is made in the spirit of reviving cultural safari

16. Domboshaba Festival 20.

tourism as well as showcasing handcrafts. It
is meant to show the country and the world
Indigenous Cultural at large that people can benefit from their
of Culture and History Carnival natural resources as well as their talents. This
festival is held in different places surrounding
This annual event is held near Domboshaba The event was launched by Matsosangwao the Tswapong Hills which is about 275km
ruins. It has cultural activities which allow Arts Troupe on 3rd February 2018 in from Gaborone.
the audience to get more exposure to Molepolole village. The aim of the event is

24.
the Ikalanga culture. It also features a expected to be held on annual basis. The
Troupe long had the idea of hosting the event
21.2km Nswazwi marathon. The festival is
organized by Domboshaba Cultural Trust but could not do so due to shortage of funds. Botswana
(DCT). Domboshaba Festival takes place in The dreams of the Troupe only came true in Independence Day
Domboshaba hills 525km to the north of 2017 when the Companies and Intellectual
Gaborone. Property Authority (CIPA) funded the Troupe Batswana are proud of the advances their
For images, please refer to bing.com/images. to document the Chobe cultural arts and country has made since independence,
crafts. The Indigenous Cultural Carnival is happily hitting the streets in celebration
one of the notable outcomes of the project. every year on September 30. Traditional

17. Wayeyi Cultural music and dance, poetry, attire, street

parties and parades are a critical part of the
Festival (Rueta) commemorations. Even though a national
event is held in Gaborone, at community level
The Wayeyi culture is celebrated yearly Batswana gather at the kgotla (traditional
during Easter holidays. The Festival offers court) to commemorate the day.
different activities such as the performance
of Wayeyi cultural entertainment, selling of
Wayeyi books and other products.
11
 Kingdom of Eswatini
Cultural Events

12
1. Kingdom of Eswatini Annual Marula
Festival
The Marula season begins each year in mid-February and continues
until May, bringing with it a celebration of the harvest of the Marula
fruit. Once the green fruits fall to the ground, women and children
gather and store them until they ripen to a creamy yellow colour. The
fruits are then placed into water, sugar is added and it is fermented, and
distilled into a beer. This potent alcoholic mixture is called buganu, or
Marula beer.

The Kingdom of Eswatini celebrates the start of the Marula season at household. Only after the royal family has had some of the beer, is the
the Ebuhleni Royal Residence from 23rd-25th February. The festival rest of the nation permitted to join in and drink as well.
is increasing in popularity, and swiftly becoming one of the country’s
most exciting traditional ceremonies. Each year King Mswati III and Her Because of its many uses, the Marula fruit is no longer just used to
Majesty the Indlovukazi, the Queen Mother, make their way to various brew beer in Kingdom of Eswatini. It has been further developed into
regions of the Kingdom to celebrate the beginning of the Marula Season. beauty products as part of Her Majesty, The Indlovukazi’ s job creation
and poverty alleviation initiatives for rural women in The Kingdom of
The largest of these festivals is held at the royal residence at Ebuhleni Eswatini. Several families in The Kingdom of Eswatini have benefited
where the royal family join the nation in song and dance. Although from this initiative.
the Marula Fruit is found widely throughout Africa, it is most popular
in Kingdom of Eswatini. Seen by the Swati nation as much more than The Marula products are produced under a company called Swati
a food source, the Marula is rather regarded as a magical healing Secrets. The fruit has been developed into many different beauty
ingredient, with huge fertility properties. The King and Queen mother products. These products also come in hotel packages and gift packages.
are presented with Marula gifts and some Marula beer from each

grounds of Ludzidzini, each dissolving in turn into the pulsating mass

of bodies around the royal kraal. The Girls sing and the warrior escorts,
adorned with cow tails and clutching knob-stick and shield, are sternly
intent on their duties and seem contemptuous of tourists, but the
girls are all smiles. It’s Kingdom of Eswatini’s biggest holiday and, after
days of tramping the hillsides, cutting reeds and camping out, they’re
determined to party. The event takes place around the last week of
August / first week of September. The dates for the event are released
relatively close to the time as they derive from ancestral astrology.

Day One The girls gather at the Queen Mother’s royal village. Today
this is at Ludzidzini, in Sobhuza’s time it was at Lobamba. They come
in groups from the 200 or so chiefdoms and are registered for security.
Men, usually four, supervise them, appointed chiefs. They sleep in the
huts of relatives in the village or in classrooms of nearby schools. This is a

2. Umhlanga, The Reed Dance very exciting time for the maidens.

Day Two The girls are separated into two groups, the older (about 14 to
This is Kingdom of Eswatini best known cultural event, and has a more
open feel than the Incwala. In this eight-day ceremony, young girls cut 22 years) and the younger (about 8 to 13 years). In the afternoon, they
reeds, present them to the Queen Mother (Indlovukazi) – ostensibly to march to the reed-beds with their supervisors. The older girls often
repair the windbreak around her royal residence – and then dance in march about 30 kilometers, while the younger girls march about ten
celebration. Up to 40,000 girls take part, dressed up in brightly coloured kilometers. If the older girls are sent further, government will provide
attires - making it one of the biggest and most spectacular cultural event trucks for their transport.
in Africa.
Day Three The girls cut their reeds, usually about ten to twenty, using
The proper festivities kick off on day six, when dancing gets under long knives. Each girl ties her reeds into a bundle. Nowadays they use
way in the afternoon. Each group drops their reeds outside the Queen strips of plastic for the tying, but those mindful of tradition will still cut
Mother’s quarters then moves to the main arena, where they dance and grass and plaint it into rope.
sing their songs. The dancing continues on day seven, when the king
is present. Each regiment dances before him in turn.Little can prepare Day Four In the afternoon, the girls set off to return to the Queen
you for the sheer scale of the pageantry, with column upon column Mother’s village, carrying their bundles of reeds. Again they return at
of girls advancing like vast ululating centipedes across the parade night. This is done “to show they traveled a long way.”

13
3. Butimba, the Royal Hunt
Fulfilling the need to sustain ancient traditional customs that unite and
bond the Swati Nation, the Butimba or Royal Hunt and its relationship
with nature conservation is a loving example of the potential benefits of
sustainable utilization and the value it promises for future generations.

The Butimba is an event almost as integral to the Swati Culture as the

main ceremonies of iNcwala and Umhlanga. Held in late August, the
King leads his regiments to an area at Hlane where over a period of
three days, warriors hunt, spend evenings under the starts and feast on
the fresh meat that is obtained. The Butimba follows strict curfews and
occurs in a buffer section of Hlane, where only come game species exist
Incredible as it may seem today, during the 1960s, the game populations
Now through the philosophy of protecting the cow that yields an
were so decimated that the annual hunt revealed little but cane rats and
annual surplus of milk, the protected core of Hlane Royal Park provides
hares. This traditional ceremony appeared to be doomed to obscurity in
the surpluses of game that have again made the Butimba meaningful.
the absence of wildlife, until King Sobhuza II, father of the current King,
With the king’s understanding and support, the Butimba has adapted to
commanded the protection of Hlane.
present times and is bound within conservation parameters.

photographs except by special permit. The best day to attend is Day

four o the Big Incwala, when the feasting and dancing reach a climax,
and you will see thousands of people – including warriors in full battle
regalia – thronging the royal parade grounds. The songs, dances and
ritual that take place inside the royal kraal remain a matter of utmost
secrecy and may not be recorded or written down. The event takes place
around the last week of December / first week of January. The dates for
the event are released relatively close to the time as they derive from
ancestral astrology.

Day 1
Dispersing of regiments (Tingaja). Unmarried male youths set off from
Engabezweni Royal residence and march 50km to cut branches of the
sacred shrub (lusekwane) under the light of the full moon, accompanied
by Emabutfo.

4. Incwala Festival Day 2

Dropping the Lusekwane: the boys place their lusekwane branches in
This is Kingdom of Eswatini’s most important cultural event. A the national cattle byre. The elders weave these branches in between
ceremony that has lasted for hundreds of years, it is one of the last poles of the “inhlambelo”, the King’s private sanctuary.
remaining examples of what was previously common practice in many
African countries. It has a spiritual power that is largely lost on outsiders, Day 3
and indeed many of its inner workings remain shrouded in secrecy. Morning: Young boys cut branches of the black “Imbondvo. (red
Although often translated as ‘first fruits festival’, the tasting of the first bush willow/combretum apiculatum) and these are added to the
of the season’s bounty is only one part of this long rite. Essentially this “Inhlambelo.” Afternoon: A bull charges out, the Lusekwane boys catch
is about cleansing and renewal, and – above all – celebrating kingship. and overpower the beast and return it to the sanctuary.
Although not a tourism event per se, visitors with an interest in Kingdom
of Eswatini culture are always welcomed. Respect for total privacy is Day 4
required on certain special days when the nation gathers for its own Main Day: All the key players perform in a spectacular pageant inside
focus, without outside interference. the cattle byre; the King and the regiments appear in full war-dress and
dance to a number of songs. Then he emerges to throw the sacred gourd
Every Swati may take part in the public parts of the Incwala. Spectators (Luselwa), which is caught on a black shield by one of the Lusekwane
are permitted but not actively encouraged – and you may not take boys.

14
THE GAMBIA
Cultural Events

15
 3. Kartong Festival 6. Amsterdam/Plymouth
31st January to 4th February, 2020. This
Banjul Rally
festival includes a cultural display of various
March (1st week; anually); Plymouth
choreographic dances and traditional music
Banjul Rally is a charity rally that starts from
of the two border communities of Kartong in
Plymouth, UK, through other countries with
the Gambia and Casamance in Senegal for
Banjul as its ultimate destination. All cars
a long weekend. It involves drumming and
that make it to the Gambia are auctioned in
dance training sessions for visitors wanting
aid of local charities for Jammeh Foundation
to learn the rhythms of the Djembe and
for Peace.
the two cultures separated by an imaginary
boundary’s music and dance.
Geared towards poverty alleviation. The
proceeds from the car auctions are given to
Raise revenues for the local community as well
local charities which address the basic needs
as putting Kartong and Casamance on the

1. Banjul Cultural Festival

of the under-privileged or less fortunate
same platform to showcase their similarity.
Gambians, especially in the rural areas
Conducted by Kartong Community
supported by JFP.
Development Association.
Conducted by Jammeh Foundation of Peace.

4. Independence Day
Takes place in Banjul City from the 25th of

7. Trade Fair
December to the 1st of January. It’s a long-
standing display of the local Banjul culture
and masquerade parade each Christmas Celebration
day to New Year’s in January. Banjul, the December (Annual); A trade fair organized
capital city is a melting pot of ethnicities. 18th February (anually) to expand business opportunities for
All the major ethnic groups in the country A public holiday for a national celebration, enterprises and create private sector jobs in
are found here, as well as migrants from the the day commemorates the date of addition to exhibiting product of local and
neighboring countries, vying to showcase independence from British colonial rule international business.
their masquerades and performance in 1965. Celebrated with a lot of fanfare
traditions at this time. including parades of school children, The trade fair allows exhibitors to showcase
voluntary organizations, security forces, what their Institutions/businesses have
Positive step in promoting cultural diversity and cultural groups with series of other side to offer tao the general public and their
and mutual appreciation of each other’s events to mark the day. clienteles.
cultures and religious tolerance among the Conducted by Gambia Chamber of
people of Banjul. Showcase the traditional It marks the date the Gambia became a commerce (GCCI)
masks and masquerades of the ethnics in sovereign nation and 18th February 2015
Banjul both Christians and Muslims living in marks the 50th anniversary and the Golden
harmony. Jubilee of the country. 8. Bureng Koosee Cultural
Festival
2.
Conducted by the state.

5. Food & Beverage Festival

Sanyang International
End of March. A Mandinka festival with
Cultural Festival the quest to preserve traditional cultural
practices. This is a festival that takes place
JANUARY Sanyang as the origin of the Kombo after harvests when food is abundant
settlement is occupied by several ethnicities and people have plenty of time to relax
whose activities mainly centered on the sea beforethe rainy season sets in again and the
trade. This festival showcases the Kombo fields demand a return to work. The festival
cultures and traditions in their diversity showcases rare Manding masquerades such
from the 4 human life cycle ceremonies of as the Koosee, konoo which were threatened
birth, circumcision, marriage and burial with with extinction.
their performance traditions. Its highlight is April 2020.
a daylong cultural and musical jamboree at This festival showcases the Gambia’s The reborn of this festival has awakened the
the beachside till day break. hospitality and culinary art in its diversity. It
new generation of Mandinka on the need
is an exhibit of our local food immersed with
to take pride in their cultural traditions.
A celebration of diverse cultures living in entertainment of our local performances. Knowledge of the past is essential if they
peace and harmony and showcasing their The festival provides a “taste of the Gambia” want to take up the mantle of leadership in
cultural and traditional rituals to the visitors. and compliments the international foods their societies and their manhood passage.
The pilgrimage to “Berewuleng” rock at the that are also found in the Gambia. Conducted by Bureng Cultural society
sea side is a reflection of their ancestral
lineage to their first settlement with their The festival displays our local cuisine to tourists
atheist religion of “Jalang” worshipping. and locals take the opportunity to dine and also
This festival includes a cultural display of enjoy other nation’s food and beverages.
various Conducted by the Gambia Tourism Board

16
9. Maribantang/Dankunku
A religious observation and celebration that
is enshrine in the Muslim’s Holy Book and
observed by Muslims all over the world.
Cultural Festival
March (last weekend)
Biennial and routine with Essau. Held in
15. Wrestling
Dankunku village, this two-day event is Occasionally Organized / during major
aimed at showcasing the cultural heritage national events Wrestling is more than a
of this manding settlement in Maribantang. sport in the Gambia. The wrestling arena is a
It is a home for the most famous griots place to show courage, labour, strength, fair
and musician Jaliba Kuyateh. The festival play and to honor the traditional sports in
showcases the manding traditions of the society. Fights are organized between clans
Kankurang masquerades with cultural or weight opponents for a competition to
dancing. win the coveted prices.

To maintain and preserve its rich cultural Teach young Gambians about the most
heritage for the younger generation. The popular traditional sport as well as honor the
young learn the rituals, norm and values Spirits of society in becoming a man.
from the older generations.

16.
futampaf, a Jola traditional initiation/ rites of
Conducted by the Maribang Society. passage ceremony from youth to adulthood
Tourism Week
10.
in which visitor’s can partake; and diverse
cultural performances.
Esau Wo Worosso December (Annual) Stakeholders and
Cultural Festival This is designed to encourage and provide members of the tourism fraternity come
opportunity for Africans in the Diaspora to re- together during the tourism week to
March/April. The Worosso Festival is a discover their roots and re-connect, reaffirm celebrate Gambian culture and award prizes
celebration of the first manding settlers of and re-embrace their ancestral identity. for exemplary performance in the interest of
the Gambia River banks from the Great Mali Conducted by the Ministry of Tourism and tourism in the country.
Empire. The settlement was positioned into Culture.
7 pillars (sinkirr) of the local communities The platform recognizes the outstanding

13.
of the river banks. The festival features the performance of members of the tourism
night masquerades ‘Suto Kankurang’ from Sheikh Umar Futi Taal fraternity during the tourist season.
Conducted By Gambia Tourism Board
the 7 local communities. Ziyareh
A celebration of their ancestral lineage from June (Ending) Annual
the 7 pillars of Nuimi and re-unification to
17. Open Mic Festival
showcase their common heritage. The mosque, associated grounds, buildings
Conducted by Esau Cultural Society and rocks are all regarded as sacred because

11.
the site provided sojourn for the Kalifat’ul
Tijanniyya Sheikh Umar Taal, 1793- 1864,
May Day Sports leader of the Tijanniyya Sect in West Africa,
during his Islamization mission in West
May 1st (Annual) This is a national holiday
Africa. Followers take pilgrimage to the site
where workers across the length and
to pay homage and receive blessings.
breadth of greater Banjul area converge at
the Independence Stadium to take part in
People visit the Sand Dune Mosque to pray December (last weekend) Annual This is the
various sporting activities.
for life changing situations ranging from most celebrated Gambian youth musical
marital status to reversing the plight of festival held under the backdrop of rising
Workers of various institutions come
barren women for child bearing. Gambian musical talents and showcasing
together, socialize and show solidarity in

14.
physical exercises. the best of music of the year. It has clock in
for the 7th year as a private purely Gambian
Conducted by the State Tobaskh /Koriteh Day• entertainment musical jamboree.

12. International Roots Islamic Calendar (Annual) Depending on

the sight of the moon Muslims observe the
Identifying the best of Gambian talents also
assist in marketing Gambian music beyond
Festival month of Ramadan fasting and end after Gambian borders.
a month with a religious celebration and Conducted by By Black Lynz
May (2nd week Biennial) solidarity with the family. Tobaski is further
The Gambia’s most popular international punctuated with ram sacrifices in tandem
festival. Organized once in every two years, with the pilgrimage in Mecca.
the festival programme is characterized by
visits to heritage sites relating to slavery; the

17
18. Kayong Kalon Cultural Festival
October (held in the dry season) It is a festival of the Karoninka clan. One of the first settlers
of the Kombos and they spread from Gunjur to Mandinary. They come together annually
to showcase their performance traditions as part of a desire to sustain their language and
culture which is on the verge of extinction.

To celebrate and maintain the Karoninka ancestral linkages and revival of their culture for
the young generations. An opportunity for the 7 clans of Karon tribe to meet to express
fraternity and solidarity (2 clans from Guinea Bissau 3 from the Casamance, Senegal and 2 in
the Gambia) for cross border festival.
Conducted by Kayorn Kalorn Association.

18
 GHANA
Cultural Events

19
1.The Aboakyer 7. The Bugum Chugu
soccergames, and parades. In some areas,
young people hold an all-night party.

Commemoration
A bushbuck hunting festival celebrated
4. The Asogili Festival Festival & The Epor
BUGUMU CHUGU is also known as the fire
by the people of Winneba in the Central The ASOGLI YAM festival is a yearly festival, which is celebrated among the
Region of Ghana during the month of May. celebration by the Asogli people in the Dagomba people in the Northern part of
It is believed that, the clan moved from an Volta Region of Ghana. The celebration Ghana in October. The event starts after the
Eastern African town to their current land is observed to remember the harvest of evening meal where the chief linguist, the
in the Central Region. As a result of this, a yam that was found by a hunter long ago. chief and the people gather. Afterwards,
bushbuck is sacrificed and this announces According to ancient times, the harvest of the chief lights the touch (fire) and the
the initiation of the event. The ceremony is yam among the people started when the multitude of the people chant in a warlike
believed to enhance the people; productivity, yam which the hunter hid, germinated and manner, with the intention of deafening
spiritual protection and counsel from their began to grow larger. This shows the origin of the sound of the ‘‘tom-tom’’ drums. The
gods for the following years yam among the Asoglis. The festival fosters members of the entire community do
unity through reconciliation, mobilization not only hold touches but also cutlasses,

2.The Adea Celebration of the entire resources of the state towards

wealth creation and to re-affirm honor by
bows, singlestick, arrows, knife making the
community severely charged and disturbed.
all chiefs and their people in the area to the
ADAE in the local dialect means ‘’resting “Agbogbome stool”. It is held in September The EPOR festival is celebrated by the chiefs
place’’ and is a celebration among the or October. and peoples of Lolobi-Kumasi in the Volta
Ashantis. This festival has two events, one region of Ghana.
on Sunday (Akwasidae) and the other on
Wednesday (Awukudae) between July
and October and in January. The event
5. The Attu Festival 8. The Damba &
is organized to express gratitude to the
gods and ancestors for the new harvest.
The ATTU FESTIVAL(or welcome festival) is Dogoleglime Festival
held bi- annually in a different Ghana region
During the event, the community is kept each time. These are Artsfestivals ofCopyright Originally linked with the birth of
clean and the paramount chief takes a owners of Ghana and managed by the three Mohammed, the prophet of Allah, The
meal prepared from yam and plantain, Collective Management Organizations in Damba festival has assumed a traditional
presents it before the ceremonial stool for the country namely – Audiovisual Rights character. A two – day festival full of
the spirit of the ancestors to feed on. It is Society of Ghana(ARSOG), Ghana Music pageantry, showmanship and horse riding
accompanied by the ringing of a bell, as an Rights Organization(GHAMRO) and the held in September or October by the Tamale/
indication that, the spirit is eating the food. Reprographic Rights Organization of Yendi ethnic group.
It is celebrated in Kumasi to mark specific Ghana(COPYGHANA). Ghanaian artistes
milestone in the history of the Ashanti would welcome to our country their Dodoleglime, means coming out of the wall
Kingdom. It is celebrated every 40th day counterparts from across the globe and in in the Ewe language. The festival is used to
according to the Ashanti Royal calendar.Its cohesion tell their various stories in music, mark the migration of the people Notsie
first celebration was during the attainment film, books paintings sculpture, drama and in Togo in the 17th Century to their present
ofstatehoodbytheAshantiKingdom after other art forms imaginable. location in the south east of Ghana. The
they fought and defeated the Denkyiras

6. The Bakatue Event

migration occurred because the people
in the battle of Feyiase also known as the
were fed up with the rule of Togbe Agorkoli.
Ashanti Independence war.
The people therefore use the festival to

3.The Akwambo Festival

commemorate the heroics of their ancestors
The BAKSTUE event is celebrated by the
who devised a secret escape through a
people of Winneba in the Central Region
hole they dug in the wall that surroundeda
of Ghana on the 1st Tuesday of July.
AKWAMBO is observed annually, mainly the Notsie town. Another reason for the
Tuesdaywasselectedandopted for, as a day
in the Agona and Gomoa Districts in the celebration of the festival is for the people to
to honor the river god. Fishing, drumming,
Central Region of Ghana. The festival honor certain ancestors who played leading
and funeralsarethereforebanned during the
commemorates the journey and arrival roles in their secret escape.
period of the celebration of the festival. At

9. The Dipo & the Fao

of the founding settlers of the four towns the same time, the paramount chief of the
of Gyinankoma, Ekrawfo, Atakwaa, and area together with his subordinates and the
Otabenadze. Celebrations are held at various entire people of Winneba offer the solemn
times of the year, usually lasting for several festival food of eggs and mashed yams Festival
days, and can include different activities mixed with palm oil, to the river god and
according to local custom. However, most pray for unity. Afteraseriesofevents,thechief Dipo is a Ghanaian traditional festival
Akwambo festivals share certain common casts his net three times into the lagoon / celebrated by the people of Odumase in
customs such as the ritual path clearing, a river to bring an end to the ban on fishing, the Eastern region of Ghana. The festival is
public gathering known as a durbar, and drumming, funerals and other activities in celebrated in the month of April every year.
family or community reunions. There may the area. The festival is used to usher into puberty, girls
also be music and dance performances, who are virgins and it signifies that a lady,

20
who partakes in it, is of age to be married. Region of Ghana fell under his sword. The rivalry and intra-clan conflicts (a situation
Parents upon hearing announcement of the tide, however, turned against him when that rendered them weak, vulnerable and
rites send their qualified girls to the chief he entered Builsaland. He and his warriors easy prey for slave raiders).
priest. However these girls would have to suffered a decisive defeat in the hands of the
go through rituals and tests to prove their
chastity before they qualify to partake in the
festival.
Builsa in the Battle of Fiisa, bringing to an
end his two-decade career. (Fiisa is the name
of a section of Sandema where the battle
12. Gmayem Festival
was fought). Babatu fled the Builsa area The GMAYEM festival is a celebration of
Fao is an event celebrated by the people of following this defeat, and later took refuge the abundant harvest of ngma (millet). It is
Navrongo in the Upper East Region, who are at Yendi in the Northern Region, where he when the Krobo people, with gratitude and
predominantly Kassenas and Nankanis in eventually died. This is how the life of the thanksgiving to their maker acknowledge
the northern part of Ghana. The celebration notorious Zabarima slave raider ended his providence and care over the previous
is done each yearinJanuary,initiating a whose name became synonymous with the years and supplicate for his continuous
thanksgiving festival in recognition to end human trade in the Northern Territories. bounty and protection in the coming years.
the harvest period, demonstrate honor to The Krobo people (Klo li), in their migration
their gods for rains throughout the farming
period and to show gratitude for good
health and protection
11. Fetu Afahye Festival history and particularly after Lolovor,
became defined in every aspect of their
lives as a people set apart by an invisible
FETU AFAHYE is an event solemnized by the pathfinder and sanctifier (Nana Klowki)

10. Fiok Festival Oguaa people of Cape Coast. Fetu in the local
accent means ‘’Efin tu’’ (dirt cleansing). It
can be noted that, the event symbolizes
under the Almighty and Creator (Mau) of all
things.

FIOK is a war festival to re – enact ancient

historic exploits of the Busa people. There
is a durbar, as well as drumming, dancing
the maintaining of cleanliness and the
avoidance of the repetition of an epidemic
that came down to their forefathers. It is
13. Gologo Festival
and thanksgiving to the gods of the land. held in September. The GOLOGO Festival is among the major
It is held in December in Sandama. Feok festivals in Ghana and is celebrated by the
Festival of simple translation, “Feok” in • The FOFIE YAM festival is celebrated by the chiefs and people of Talensi, Tong-Zuf, in the
the local Buli dialect, means abundance chiefs and peoples of Nchiraa near Wenchi Upper East Region of the country, serving “to
of food. In this context, then, the festival in the Brong Ahafo Region of Ghana. The reinforce the community belief in the Nnoo
becomes one of thanks-giving by which festival is celebrated in the month of October shrine or Golib god”, which deity regulates
the people of the area express thanks to every year. Talensi agricultural life. It is a pre-harvest
God, their ancestors and the earth shrines festival celebrated in the months of March
for seeing them through another year and • The Fofie Yam Festival is a joyful event and April, with sacrifices offered to seek
a successful farming season.The climax of that gives thanks for the harvest and God’s protection and ensure plentiful rain and a
the festival is a public gathering bringing ongoing protection; locals also use the event good harvest in the coming season from
together chiefs, war dancers, and singing to invoke further blessings and guidance for the earthly gods. The festival has a three-
groups from the villages in the Builsa area. the year ahead. day programmer at three different villages.
The festival commences with the pouring of The first part takes place at Gorogo, the
libation to invoke the ancestors and shrines • The Festival is celebrated throughout the second at Yinduri, and the final and biggest
of the land for an uneventful and peaceful Techiman traditional area by the chiefs and at Teng-Zug (Tong-Zuf). Libation is poured
celebration. This is followed by speeches people of the region. Fofie is an Akan word at the Teng-Zug shrine to thank the gods
by the Paramount Chief and key dignitaries for Friday; the celebration is traditionally for a successfuloccasion. The one in March
present, interspersed by a variety of musical held on this day and often through Saturday is called Gol-diema, which means tutorial.
performances. War dancers representing and for a number of days either side. The main Gologo festival is celebrated in the
various villages are given the floor to Because Fridays and Saturdays are believed second week in April. Traditional songs are
perform at this stage. Armed with shields, to be auspicious for state ceremonies, these composed by the elders of each community
spears, short axes, bows and arrows, they days are when the festivities reach their for the occasion and people dance to the
relive battle scenes from yester-year. Scenes peak. During the festival, music and dancing composed songs. During this period, noise-
of resistance and the ultimate defeat of are key features; drumming is carried out making is prohibited and no one mourns
the marauding warriors of Babatu.Babatu by many of the locals, to which dancing is their dead. There is a special dress code
stands out for his prolonged career in slave performed, often in public spaces where whereby men wear a short knicker and a
raids and his prominent role in the history of crowds look on and cheer. The atmosphere towel on the chest. Women are also expected
slavery in the Northern Territories. is one of joy and energy as everyone heads to tie a long towel from their chest feet.
out into the streets to celebrate.
• Historical sources relate that he originally
hailed from Indunga in present day • FEOK has become the most significant 14. Homowo &
Niger. Recruiting Hausa, Fulani, Mossi event in the Builsa area in recent times, HogbetsotsoFestival
and Grunshie fighters, he embarked on a giving the people a true sense of identity and
conquering spree. The area stretching from solidarity. This is in direct contrast to what The HOMOWO ceremony is celebrated by
Ouagadougou in the north to the present day pertained in the early years of the Builsa the GA people of Ghana in May. Homowo
Upper East and even parts of the Northern which were characterised by mistrust, petty means to hoot (shame) at hunger. It started

21
with a prolonged hunger, due to failure of friendship, to compare, collaborate, organizer, Walter Neser.
of the seasonal rain in the Greater Accra learn from each other, and form lasting
Region, where the “Gas” live. The event friendships. • The first Ghana Paragliding Festival, in
begins with the planting of maize, which is 2005, was launched by H.E. late Alhaji Aliu
used in preparing local food for the festival • THE SCHOOL REUNION, formerly “old Mahama, Vice President of the Republic of
known as kpokpoi. The celebration is schools reunion” is a gathering of all past Ghana.
finalized by drumming, painting, singing students of all Second cycle and tertiary
and the performing of traditional dance students. It is single largest gathering • The festival was rechristened the Kwahu
among the Ga people. of its sort in the country. It is an annual Easter Festival in 2010 through the leadership
event organised by Joy fm, a member of of the Chief Executiave of the Ghana Tourism
• The HOGBETSOTSO festival is lauded by the Multimedia Group. Various sporting Authority (Julius Debrah) in partnership with
the people of Anloga in the Volta region of activities like 5-aside, gari soakings, arm Adom fm (a local fm station and member
Ghana. The name of the festival expresses wrestling and other exciting competitions of the Multimedia Group) and has thence
the movement of the people from ‘’Notsie’’ to are normally held. There is usually an incorporated numerous activities including
their present location. Here, the paramount exclusive live band for matured patrons with hiking the Odweanoma mountain, walk race
chief dresses in colorful regalia and accepts exciting performances by some of Ghana’s (Walkerton), telescope viewing from the Mt.
homage from his own people at the durbar finest artistes. Odweanoma Observatory, Jams, Durbar of
grounds. Several forms of dancing, merry- Chiefs and People of Kwahu, Music Album
making and singing defines the festival in a • The participating choirs will be able to lunches etc.
whole which takes place in November. present themselves in several concerts
during the festival. This helps the foreign • Kwahu Paragliding festival attracts both

15. Kloyosikplem choirs to acquaint themselves with various

venues in Ghana before and after the
Festival.
Ghanaians and foreigners alike for 4 days of
spectacular aerial fun, ceremony and music.
For the last 5 years, tandem paraglide pilots
KLOYOSIKPLEM meaning ‘descending from have gathered from around the world to
mountain’ is a festival celebrated by the • The main aim of the African Choral Festival fly local Ghanaian spectators and foreign
people of the Yilo Krobo traditional area. is to be an international platform for the visitors.
Before descending from the mountain development and propagation of Africa’s
to their present home, they believe their rich choral music. • The festival is open to solo pilots as well;
ancestors and forefathers lived as one and boasts consistent flying conditions that
people and did almost everything together • The festival is preceded by a national begin around mid-morning and remain
as one people with a common destiny 121 competitive selection process for Ghanaian soarable until late in the day. The Festival
years ago, and therefore they must also Choirs applying to participate in the festival. exposes hundreds of Ghanaians, as well as
remain united.” A total of three of the best Ghanaian a large number of tourists, to the magic of
Choirs are selected through this process for free fight.
• Activities usually lined up during the participation in the international festival.
celebration include clean-up exercises, • The Festival brings together the
meet-your-chiefs, quiz competition for • Visiting choirs get the opportunity to international flying community, by
schools in Yilo Krobo, health screening perform at the Grand National Theatre as providing a well-organized opportunity to
exercise and talk, women’s day, cooking well as the historical and Cape Coast Castle visit Africa. It can be a challenge to travel
contest, and cultural night, visit to Yilo visited by President Barack Obama and his in Africa; especially flying sites, which are
Krobo Mountain (ancestral home), family in 2009. usually off of the beaten tourist paths. But
dramatisation of the forceful ejection of the superb organization of the festival
Krobos from the mountain, Agrofie, grand
durbar, crowning of Miss Yilo, state dance, 17. Ghana Paragliding makes it fun and easy for tandem and
solo pilots to show-up and enjoy a fully
Interdenominational thanksgiving service,
and football gala competition among
Festival catered trip; complete with arranged hotel
accommodation, transportation, meals and
others. The Krobos are mostly farmers cultural immersion via local day trips.
The past 7 years has seen the GHANA
spread across the length and breadth of
PARAGLIDING FESTIVAL become an integral
the country contributing their quota to the • The festival strengthens the local economy
part of the annual Kwahu Easter Festivities.
agricultural sector and stressed the need for by creating opportunities for local business
The event rekindled the hither-to dying
them to come home every year to celebrate proprietors (such as taxi drivers, hotel
Kwahu Easter festival and transformed
what she called traditional history. owners, food vendors and souvenir sellers)
Easter celebration in Ghana into an
to earn much needed income.

16. African Choral Festival

international event.

& The Schools Reunion

• The history of the festival goes back to
March 2003 when, as the new Minister
18. Emancipation Day &
of Tourism and Modernization of the Chocolate Day
THE AFRICAN CHORAL FESTIVAL brings capital city Accra, Mr. Jake Tanka Obetsebi-
together choirs from all over Africa and Lamptey visited the Kwahu ridge as part of The past 7 years has seen the GHANA
the rest of the world in order to provide his familiarization tour of the country, and PARAGLIDING FESTIVAL become an integral
an opportunity to perform in the spirit by chance crossed paths with the festival’s part of the annual Kwahu Easter Festivities.

22
The event rekindled the hither-to dying the leadership of Akyaaba AAddai-Sebo first to be organized in Accra, Ghana and has
Kwahu Easter festival and transformed a Ghanaian who served as coordinator of inspired similar events across the country.
Easter celebration in Ghana into an special projects for the Greater London
international event. Council (GLC). • There have been four editions so far; the
• The history of the festival goes back to • In Canada, it was celebrated in 1995 after first two ran for one day each, while the 2013
March 2003 when, as the new Minister a motion by politician Jean Augustine, and 2014 edition ran concurrently for two
of Tourism and Modernization of the representing the riding of Etobicoke- days, the former in September and the latter
capital city Accra, Mr. Jake Tanka Obetsebi- Lakeshore in Ontario, Canada’s House of in August, a week after the Homowo festival
Lamptey visited the Kwahu ridge as part of Commons officially recognized February of the Ga people at the historical Jamestown,
his familiarization tour of the country, and as Black History Month and honored Black Ghana on the High Street in Accra.
by chance crossed paths with the festival’s Canadians.
organizer, Walter Neser. • The event is produced by Accra [dot] Alt
• The celebrations have been marked Radio, with support from other local cultural
• The first Ghana Paragliding Festival, in extensively in Ghana and some parts of networks like Attukwei Art Foundation,
2005, was launched by H.E. late Alhaji Aliu Africa. The US Embassy in Accra, Ghana Foundation for Contemporary Art Ghana,
Mahama, Vice President of the Republic of has over the years collaborated with Dr. Monk, Redd Kat Pictures and the Institut
Ghana. educational institutions, non- profits and français in Ghana.
cultural advancement agencies to mark the

19. Black History Month 20. Chale Wote Street Art 21. Ghana Music Week
celebrations.

GHANA MUSIC WEEK is a music festival

BLACK HISTORY MONTH as known now
was originally called the Negro History
Festival held in Ghana, West Africa to celebrate
Ghanaian music, one of Africa’s thriving
Week created by Carter .G. Woodson, a music industries. The annually held festival
The CHALE WOTE STREET ART FESTIVAL
noted African American historian, educator, aims to create heightened awareness and
also known as Chale Wote is an alternative
scholar and publisher. It became a month exposure for Ghanaian music and its artists.
platform that brings art, music, dance
long celebration in 1976.
and performance out into the streets. The
• The 7-day music festival is packed with
festival targets exchanges between scores of
• The month of February was chosen to cut edging activities ranging from music
local and international artists and patrons
coincide with the birthdays of Frederick workshops, concerts, award ceremony, sales
by creating and appreciating art together.
Douglass and Abraham Lincoln, significant and exhibitions and many more.
players in the abolishment of slavery in the
• Since 2011, Chale Wote has included street
United States. • Ghana Music Week is organized by the
painting, graffiti murals, photography,
Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA),
theater, spoken word, interactive art
• Black History Month has evolved over Fantasy Entertainment, Showbiz Africa
installations, live street performances,
the years with other countries joining the and National Theater Ghana and is in
extreme sports, film shows, a fashion
celebrations. In the United Kingdom, the partnership with Coyah Productions, The
parade, a music block party, recyclable
Month was first celebrated in 1987 through R’ajwa Company and RDPR.
design workshops and much more. It is the

23
 KENYA
Cultural Events

24
 Turkana, Dassanach Gabra, Borana, El Molo, selected as ambassadors. Not to mention
Konso, Sakure, Garee, and Waata gathering the array of colors and fabrics presented in
in a kaleidoscope of colour, dressed in their the fashion show./As a result of assimilation
most elaborate tradition clothing, beading, and intermarriage with the Luo, the Suba
head ornaments, and paint made from culture has come under pressure and the
the red ochre? Picture each group building language is now listed in UNESCO’s Red
their traditional huts in front of you. It is Book of Endangered Languages (2003). Anne
fascinating to see the uniqueness of each Eboso, the founder of the festival saw a need
individual hut when sitting side by side. and decided to do something about it. The
The Marsabit Lake Turkana Festival is a Festival is more than just about experience
conglomerate of 14 communities that forms and fun. It is about reclaiming the identity
the bulk of the larger Marsabit County’s of a people, showing of their quiet resilience,
populace. The festival was proposed by the and reminding the world that they shall not

1. Lamu Festival
local communities who reside on the Eastern
shores of Lake Turkana in Marsabit County. It
was initiated in the year 2008 and has since
be forgotten.

It’s time they celebrate another fruitful been an annual event.

season. Located within the Lamu Archipelago
off the Indian Ocean along the northern
coast of Kenya, Lamu is one of the largest and
most visited islands renowned for its Swahili
cultural heritage, donkey sanctuaries, white
sandy beaches, pristine blue waters and
many cultural and religious festivals. The

4. Tobongu Lore Festival

sense of community is quite evident during
the festivals such as the Lamu Cultural
Festival which has been organized by the
Lamu Cultural Promotion group since 2001
Kalokol Standing Stones – this is the Turkana

3.
when Lamu was declared a world heritage
version of Luanda Magere. According to the
site by UNESCO. Here’s a peek at some of
the delights you will be treated to during the
The Rusinga Cultural stories of the Turkana people, these basalt
three day festival; Festival pillars who were once people. The legend
goes that there was a village dance and a
encompasses all the aspects of adventure stranger came in and told the people not to
1. Traditional dances and live musical
and experience into just two days! Two days laugh when he danced. The people agreed
performances.
of dancing, laughing, listening and hanging but when he started dancing people laughed
2. Dhow and Donkey races.
out by the lake.Two days of the aroma of at him. He cursed them and they all turned
3. Poetry competition.
ethnic meat and fish dishes rising into the into stone, and they are in the position they
4. Swimming races in the ocean and Football
air tempting even the hardest of stomachs. were in when he cursed them. It is a spiritual
tournaments.
Their local uji, rightly entitled as a delicacy power place and some Turkana people still
5. Traditional displays of Swahili food and
and in the common language known as come here to pray. Lake Turkana is beautiful,
artefacts.
Owusera is a must have.Then there is the with a white sandy beach.It is the world’s
thrill of the sport. In traditional Suba set largest permanent desert lake and also the
up, sports were used to unite people. And world’s largest alkaline lake. It has a couple
here centuries down the line, in an effort to of islands on it which are UNESCO tourism
protect the people’s heritage they are used sites. The cultural festival is an initiative
again to unite visitors and locals alike as they of the county of Turkana to promote
celebrate a people. Having the benefit of a Turkana’s rich culture. It is an initiative of
lake makes for one of the most interesting the Department of Culture in collaboration
sports, namely boat racing. It is one of those with the Department of Tourism. The festival
activities which will leave you mouth agape features traditional music, dance, poetry
in anticipation. The boats racing across and performances from different wards in
the causeway are not engine run but the Turkana and also some secular music from

2. Marsabit Lake Turkana traditional African boats (canoes) navigated

with a paddle. That is not all, board games
also apparently being a part of the culture,
various Turkana musicians. Also there is a
Miss Cultural Heritage pageant, Turkana
Cultural night and excursions to various
Festival are showcased and traditional wrestling. famous historical sites. We also got to hear
The tapping of bare feet as they hit the To add onto the Asuba experience the time the history of the Turkana people. It is also
ground. It is a symbiotic clash of culture for cultural exhibition comes, where there a vehicle for creating community bonds and
derived from national pride, history, and are songs, dances, instrumentation, and a also acts as a peace tool. You get to watch
heritage all cultivated onto one platform section called Eminayo which includes the the different attire worn by the people. It
to give a captivating and enthralling likes of storytelling, chants, poetry, proverbs, was a festival of colour, as people displayed
experience. Can you imagine tribes and riddles, plays and etc. There is a talent search their traditional clothing including lesos and
ethnic groups such as the Randille, Samburu, and a pageant where Mr. and Ms. Suba are skins, head ornaments, beading and paint.
25
 LESOTHO
Cultural Events

26
1. Arts Innovation & Culture Week
celebrate the day with competitions and performances of cultural
dances of their choice. In 2017 the event was held on the 11 March.

It is an annual episode funded and spearheaded by the Ministry of

Tourism, Environment and Culture. The 2017 event was held from
the 2nd to the 7th October 2017. The event was characterized by
youth forum, women’s symposium, men’s forum, music conference
and concert, blend of cultures, fashion show and beauty pageants
competition as well as the carnival.

The purpose of the event was to showcase creativity and innovation in

arts. Participants were allowed to choose their activities and how they
celebrate the arts week. For example Motion Pictures Association of
Lesotho (MPALE) focused on screening and discussion on opportunities
and challenges facing the film industry and issues of copyright and
related rights. Lesotho Music Rights Association (LEMRA) held a
conference aimed at sensitization of its members on copyright and

4. Morena Moorosi Lamentation Walk

collective management of rights.

This is an annual event held in the southern region of Lesotho in the

district of Quthing by Baphuthi nation who are found in both Lesotho
and South Africa. The purpose of this walk is to remind Baphuthi and
Basotho of where they come from, the contribution of Baphuthi during
the hard times of wars. This two day walk starts from the Eastern Cape
Province of South Africa to Mount Moorosi in Quthing Lesotho. At the
summit of the celebration, Baphuthi showcase their culture through
poems, traditional dances of boys and girls as well as speaking Sephuthi
language as a career of culture from generation to generation. The 2017
event was held on the 16th November.

2. Moshoeshoe Walk
This is an annual event that commemorates the legendary King
Moshoeshoe I travel from Menkhoaneng to Thaba Bosiu. During
Lifaqane War, in 1824, Moshoeshoe I and his people walked for 9 nine
days from Menkhoaneng to a mountain called Thaba Bosiu in an effort
to save his people from attacks by the enemies. The latest event took
place on the 8th to 10th March 2017.

5. Thai Lesotho Cultural Night

Was a cultural exchange program hosted by the Ministry of Tourism,
Environment and Culture and was facilitated by the Ministry of Foreign
Affairs. The purpose of the event was strengthening diplomatic ties
between the Lesotho and Thailand. The event was held on the 23rd
August 2017.

3. Moshoeshoe Day
Is an annual event celebrated by the whole country to commemorate
birth of the founder of the Basotho nation King Moshoeshoe I who
was born in 1786 and died on the 11th March 1870. The junior schools

27
 LIBERIA
Cultural Events

28
1. In December 2005, there was
a PEACE AND RECONCILIATION
FESTIVAL, which was geared towards
bringing the people of Liberia together
from the 15 counties in putting political
and tribal indifferences aside. In this
light, movie exhibitions are highlighted
as well as traditional music cultural
artifacts for the benefit of the public.

2. In August 2015, the Kakutonor Peace

Festival highlighted on a theme called
“WE ARE ONE PEOPLE, LET’S MAINTAIN
THE PEACE,” during the national Flag Day
Festival. The FLAG DAY is held every August
24 of the year.

3. On July 25, 2017, President

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf dedicated more
development projects including the
Pipeline Community Hall and the
Bentol Peace Park located in Benseville,
Montserrado County. A Traditional
Honoring Ceremony was also held for
the President at the Bentol City Hall
in Bentol, Motserrado County. The
INDEPENDENCE DAY is held annually
every 26th of July.

4. On July 29, 2017, activities for

the 170th Independence Anniversary
were climaxed with a NATIONAL
KUKATONOR PEACE FESTIVAL at the
Antoinette Tubman Stadium Football
field by the Crusader for Peace and the
national Cultural Troop respectively.

29
 MALAWI
Cultural Events

30
JANUARY 3. N’cwala MAY
Period: Last Saturday of the month
Location: Zambia
N’cwala is a harvest celebration festival of
the Ngoni descendants of the Zulu Kingdom.
The ceremony allows the Ngoni to thank and
praise their God for the fresh fruits and crops
in the fields, hence the ceremony is also
known as “First Fruits Ceremony”.

6. World Day for Cultural

1. Chilimika MARCH
Diversity Dialogue and
Development
(Chachimwaka)
Period: Location: Date: 21st May
1st Five Days of the Year Nkhata Bay Location: Various
Chilimika means “year”. This is a dance The day provides the world with an
festival which celebrates the arrival of the opportunity to deepen our understanding of
new year. It is mostly celebrated by Tonga the values of cultural diversity and to learn to
Women and Youths. live together better. Locally the Day is
commemorated through numerous arts and
cultural activities in various locations.

4. Martyrs’ Day
Date: Location:
3rd March Nkhata Bay
Commemorating the lives of those
individuals who took a role in the struggle for
Malawi’s independence from the oppressive
colonial regime on 3rd March, 1959.
7. Kamuzu Day
2. Chilembwe Day APRIL
Date: 14th May
Location: Various
A celebration of the life of Malawi’s first
State President, Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda;
Date: 15th January also considered as father and founder
Venue: PIM-Chiradzulu of the Malawi nation and his significant
A day set aside to celebrate the life of contributions to Modern Day Malawi.
Reverend John Chilembwe, a National

JUNE
hero who led an uprising against the ills of
colonial government in 1915.

FEBRUARY
5. Likoma Festival
Period: Location:
Easter Weekend Likoma and Chisumulu
Islands
A festival which seeks to promote Likoma
and Chizumulu Islands and bring the world
8. Luwawa International
closer to the peoples of the two islands Mountain Bike Challenge
through cultural interactions and fun.

31
Period: 2nd weekend of the month
Venue: Luwawa Forest Lodge
Though it varies, the route usually starts at
the Luwawa Forest Lodge and runs along
the ridges of the Viphya Mountains. There
are great views along the whole route and of
course, plenty opportunities to spot wildlife

11. National 14. Umthetho

Independence Day
Period: 2nd Saturday of the month
Date: 6th July Location: Hora Mountain, Mzimba
Venue: Rotates Regionally Umthetho, which means “Custom” or
Commemorating Malawian independence “Governance”is a celebration of the M’mbelwa
from British rule in 1964. Jere Ngoni. It promotes good traditional
governance, heritage and traditions

9. Lake Malawi Sailing AUGUST

Marathon
Period: Last weekend of the month to the
SEPTEMBER
first weekend of July
Venue: Lake Malawi
An epic test of speed, endurance and sheer
determination that first took place in 1984.
The event provides an opportunity to explore
the stunning lake in an adventurous way. It
is a: challenge, adventure and an opportunity
to experience the country of Malawi from a
perspective witnessed by few and a chance to
12. Kungoni Open Day
15. World Tourism Day
enjoy the camaraderie shared on this sailing
safari.
Period: 1st Saturday of the month
Venue: KuNgoniArts Centre

JULY
Date: 27th Sept.
A festival held in memory of Father Jean-
Venue: Rotates according to where the main
Baptiste Champmartin to whom the
event is held.
museum at Mua is dedicated. The festival
A celebration aimed at fostering awareness
brings together: drummers, singers and
among the international community of
dancers from the surrounding villages.
the importance of tourism and its social,
cultural, political and economic value.
Locally, a number of events linked to the
commemoration of Tourism Day are held
throughout the month.

10. Mount Mulanje

Porter’s Race
Period: 1st Week of the month
Venue: Likhubula, Mulanje
13. Kulamba
An annual event; the Porter’s Period: Last Saturday of the month
Race is one of Malawi’s most extreme Venue: Mkaika Headquarters, Katete, Zambia

16. Umhlangano Wa
competitions. It is a 25km race through the Celebration of the Chewa people to pay
rocks of Mount Mulanje, which attracts the tribute to Kalonga Gawa Undi through
attention of runners from all over the world. traditional dances and the presentation of
gifts. Maseko
Period: 1st Weekend of the month
Venue: Nkolimbo Village, Ntcheu
is the “Great Gathering” of the Maseko Ngoni

32
 NOVEMBER
which showcases traditional songs, dances Period: 1st weekend of the month
and crafts. The festival also seeks to enhance Venue: Blantyre Cultural Centre
peace and unity symbolised by the releasing BAF seeks to boost Malawi’s Cultural
of 2 white pigeons.. Tourism by promoting and celebrating
Malawi’s creative and cultural industries
through exhibitions and workshops with
arts practitioners and cultural exchange
programs.

17. Lake of Stars

Period: Lastweekend of the month
Venue: Sunbird NkopolaLodge, Mangochi
The Festival aims at promoting Malawi’s
creative industries, celebrating Malawian
culture, promoting and increasing
20. Sunbird Sand Music
tourism, and building the capacity of arts Festival
practitioners. Period: Last weekend of the month
Venue: Sunbird Livingstonia Beach Hotel
A festival that fosters appreciation of the
musical arts by introducing quality local,
regional and international talents. 22. Poppy Day
Period: Sunday nearest to the 11th
Venue: Mzuzu, Lilongwe and Zomba
A memorial day observed in Commonwealth
countries since the end of World War I to
remember the members of their armed
forces who died in the line of duty. The

18. Gonapamuhanya venue of the main ceremony rotates based

on where His Excellency the President will
preside over.
Period: Last weekend of the month
Location: Bolero,Rumphi
A traditional ceremony held by the
Tumbukas to celebrate their heritage and Alhomwe
21. Mulhakho Wa
the Chikulamayembe Dynasty. Some of
the notable activities include oral tradition
Period: Location:
Sunday closest to 25th Chonde, Thyolo
DECEMBER
recounting the Chikulamayembe lineage
A festival celebrating the heritage of the There are no major Cultural Festivals held
and dance performances.
Lhomwe people. Features an array of events in this month. However, various artistic
from traditional dance performances, and cultural shows are held to cerebrate
recitation of oral traditions and culinary

OCTOBER
Christmas and the New Year.
displays.

19. Blantyre Arts Festival

33
 MOZAMBIQUE
Cultural Events

34
1. National Festival
CABEÇA DE VELHO - This event is
held in Manica Province, in Chimoio
city, characterized by National Music,
Traditional Dances,Gastronomy,Exhibition
National Culture Festival – This is a biennial
ofhandicrafts, sculptures, Canoe in the last
events and held in one of the province of the
week of November.
country, characterized by Cultural diversity,
and held in August
WIMBE FESTIVAL – This event is held in
Cabo Delgado province on Wimbe Beach,

2. International Festival
it is characterized by: National Music,
Traditional Dances, Gastronomy, and
Exhibition of handicrafts, Sculptures, Canoe
• ZUCK – This event is held in Maputo City competition, Volleyball and athletics, in last
and Maputo Province, characterized by week of November.
National and Foreign Music Zouk, in Last
week of April, each year

• AZGO – This event is held in Maputo city,

characterized by National and Foreign Music,
in 20th of May each year.

5.
• DJAZ - This event is held in Maputo city,
characterized by National and Foreign Music
TOFO FESTIVAL – This event is held
in 24th of November each year
in Inhambane province in Barra Beach,
characterized by National music and Disc
• KINANE – This event is held in Maputo,
Joker in the last week of November.
characterized by Contemporary dance, in 1rs MAPIKO FESTIVAL – This event is held in
to 6h of November each year. Cabo Delgado province. It rotates in each
district, characterized by: traditional dances ZALALA - this event is held in Zambezia
held in the first week of September. provincein Zalala Beach, Characterized by

3. This events held in Niassa province in

the Niassa National Reserve, characterized
National Music, traditional Dance.

GASTRONOMY, exhibition of handicrafts,

by Traditional Dances, lectures on the sculptures, canoe competition, volleyball
valorization of the reserve, football, in last and athletics from the 27th to the 28th of
week of October. October.

• XINGOMANA FESTIVAL – This event

is held in Gaza province in Wadjahane
Administrative Post characterized by a
Traditional Dance in the last week of June.

• MARRABENTA FESTIVAL – This event TUFXO FESTIVAL – This event is held

is held in Maputo city characterized by in Nampula province on Nampula city,
National music in first week of February. characterized by traditional dances in the
last week of May.
• XIGUBO FESTIVAL – This event is held in
Maputo province in Matuitine, characterized
by traditional Dance is held in 20 of May.

MACANETA FESTIVAL - This event is held

in Maputo province in Macaneta Beach,
characterized by National Music, Traditional
Dances, Gastronomy, Exhibition of
handicrafts, sculptures.

4. NYAO - this event is held in the

province and anually changes the District
HIPITY FESTIVAL – This event is held in
Nampula Province on Mozambique Island,
characterized by National Music, Traditional BAIA FESTIVAL - this event is held in
of Maravia, characterized traditional dances
Dances, Gastronomy, and Exhibition sofala province in Beira City, Charcterized
from the 24th to the 25th of June.
handicrafts, sculptures, Canoe competition, by gastronomy, exhibition of handicrafts
Volleyball and athletics, from the 15th to the sculptures and national music in the lst week
17th of September. of November.

35
 NAMIBIA
Cultural Events

36
1. The Olufuko & 6. Küska Festival
of Nkurenkuru, at the palace hosted by
the royal family. The aim was to restore
the cultural heritage and dignity of the
Omazimo Vakwangali people. And, to help the young The Swakopmunder Karneval (Küska) is a
people to keep their culture and not to week-long German traditional festival. It
“Olufuko” Festival (Traditional young women adapt to the western and European cultures. consists of multiple events including the
initiation into adulthood and womanhood. During the festival cultural dancers perform ‘Narrenwecker’- awakening of the clowns,
• “Omazimo gaawambo” (Totem/Clan Expo and showcase their cultural dress and ‘prizenball’, Küsika (children’s festival) and a
festivals). different types of cultural food and tools float procession. Photographer (Namibian
that their forefather used in effort to teach Newspaper)
and educate the youth and preserve their
heritage.

2. Annual Nama Cultural 7. Erongo Cultural Group

Festival
Performing at one of the
The annual Nama Cultural festival takes National Event
place every year in May.

4.
The purpose of the festival is to instil pride
in the Nama community and to provide the Kavango East Cultural
community a platform where they celebrate
their culture and teach the younger Group Performing
generations the importance of the Nana
culture.

8. Germany Carnival &

Beer Festival
“ Germany Karnival” ( It’s based on the
German culture but all ethnics are
participating during the march and other
activities).
• “ BeerFestival” 1st week of October every
year.

5. Okombahe Festival
• The two events are organized by the
community and business enterprises with
the support from the City of Windhoek.

9. Goab Festival &

The Damara clans meet at Okombahe every
year to celebrate their culture with food,
dance and song. The festival, which is held
annually, is also in remembrance of the Namibian Annual Music
community’s leaders and heroes. During Awards
the festival, the elders teach the young
generation about historical events, there’s • These two events are organized every
dances and rituals to further educate the year and comprise of various activities, like
young ones about their culture. The festival cultural performances, dancing, singing and
is held in November every year. (Source: sport.
New Era Newspaper) • “Goab” Festival, is the Damara Kings

3. Kavango East Cultural festival, it takes place every year and it’s also
organized by the community.
• Namibian Annual Music Awards, “NAMA’s;
Group Performing this is an awards event that is organized
to reward the musician and those who
Vakwangali Annual Cultural festival was contributed to the music industry/or
celebrated last year at the Mayara, east business.

37
 RWANDA
Cultural Events

38
 The festival has grown to become one of the as they require close attention are in turn
largest and most attended music festivals in educative and another milestone to the
the country and in the region. growth of contemporary dance in East Africa.

It features artistes from the country while Ma Tetê est mon Village, a Belgium act and
regional and international artistes are also Unité Dans La Diversité by Congo and Rwanda

1. Kigali Up Music Festival grace it and showcase their talents, mostly

in dance, fashion, music, poetry, drama and
visual arts, among others.
also takes place at the festival.

Hosted by Amizero Dance Kompagnie, it is

A music festival in Kigali featuring world a Rwandan Contemporary Dance Company,
music, reggae, funk, blues, hip hop and roots Positive Production is the organization which withsupportedfromtheSwiss cooperation
artists from around the globe. organises the festival. (DDC), Institut Francais du Rwanda (IFR),
Institut Français de Paris (IF), Positive
KigaliUp’s musical palette embraced Different countries in the region are Productions,theBelgian Embassy, the French
Rwanda’s three ancient musical expressions: represented including Kenya, Burundi, Embassy and the Goethe Institut this year
Batwa Intwatwa songs, rhythmic Bahutu Democratic Republic of Congo, and others unveils 10 performances from countries
soundscapes and Batutsi pastoral melodies, beyond the region like Ivory Coast, Burkina Rwanda, France, Cote d’Ivoire, Kenya,
plus other sounds birthed from Africa’s deep, Faso, France and United States, among Cameroon, Uganda, Belgium, DRC and
diverse musical traditions - world music, others. Tanzania.
folk, blues, hip hop, funk, gospel and reggae.
KigaliUp! gave Rwandan music a new, central The festival also feature workshops for
platform, and its musicians fresh exposure to participants in different art disciplines
international performers and new sounds aimed at helping upcoming artistes get an
and performance approaches. opportunity to improve their arts skills.

KigaliUp helps celebrate Rwanda as an The festival provides a platform for people
economic and social success story that in the creative industry and it is a platform
brings people to see the mountain gorillas, for rising artistes to showcase their talent
beautiful landscape, artisan markets, villages alongside international and regional artistes,
and lakes. thereby marketing their skills as well.

4. Ubumuntu Arts Festival

Ubumuntu Arts Festival is the brainchild of
Hope Azeda; a major figure in contemporary
Rwandan theatre, and, the founder and
Artistic Director of Mashirika Performing
Arts and Media Company - a leading theatre
company in Rwanda. The Ubumuntu
journey started when Hope submitted its
idea to the Africa Leadership Project as her
leadership project proposal. Needless to say
her proposal received great feedback and as
they say, the rest is history!

The festival was first held in 2015 and

3. East Africa Night of happens annually following the last week

of the 100 days commemoration of the 1994
Tolerance genocide against the Tutsi. It is held at the
outdoor amphitheater of the Kigali Genocide
The East African Nights of Tolerance Memorial Centre and brings different artists
(EANT), Rwanda’s only festival devoted to from around the world to convene in Kigali

2. Isaano Arts Festival

contemporary dance makes way through Rwanda. Festival activities include but are
numerous mind-blowing showcases. not limited to performances, workshops,
panels and genocide memorial site visits.
Performances usually include the Ibeiji, a The festival is free and open to everybody and
Isaano Arts Festival, is an annual pan- performance by countries Rwanda, Benina
Africanfestival thatseekstocelebrate and therefore relies on donations and sponsors
and Ivory Coast, then Je Prenos Ma Liberte by for financial support.
amplify African music from across the France and Cameroon &Bainishi by Kenya.
continent. Day two on 25th ushered in Utu by Tanzania
and Samedi Détence by France and Rwanda.
The four-day festival is meant to bring
together a variety of cultures across the The sessions, which quite are intriguing
continent through arts.
39
 6. The Rwanda Film Festival
The Rwanda Film Festival, also known as Hillywood, has not only
established itself as the country’s most important cultural event,
but also as one of Africa’s most prestigious festivals. For seven days,
film lovers, filmmakers, industry professionals and media will watch
the best in new cinema from established masters and new local and

5. The Mashariki African Film Festival

international talents. The Hillywood tradition continues this year
with the festival’s tenth edition.

Its principal objective is to promote and encourage awareness,

The Mashariki African Film festival is an annual cultural event that appreciation and understanding of the art of cinema in Rwanda. Our
aims at bringing african Films to an african audience. mandate is to present the most outstanding films produced in every
part of the world.
It consists of films screening and rewarding Rwandan and African
Filmmakers and empowering them through trainings offered With the ongoing development of filmmaking in Rwanda, they
by local and International specialized professionals. The festival believe the time is right for such a festival that serves as a key
promotes, advocates for and collaborates with other cultural events platform for the promotion of Rwandan-produced cinema and
in different member States of the East African community. also enables our local professionals to interact with internationally
established filmmakers.
The festival mission is to create partnerships with grass-root SMEs
to maximize their exposure and give values to Rwanda film industry.

They also work with large corporations that are interested in capacity
building; To boost the production of our local films to attract the
International market.

The Mashariki African film festival’s vision is to improve industry in

Rwanda, East Africa and African continent.

40
SÃO TOMÉ &
PRÍNCIPE
Cultural Events

41
1. National Independence 4. Principe Cultural Month
It’s a public holiday, where individualities
of the cultural sector, lead by Ministry
responsible for Culture sector gives lectures,
Day presentatios, and documentaries about his During August, at Principe Island, world
Sao Tome and Principe islands are located personality. biosphere reserve, the main cultural scene
in Gulf of Guinea about 300 km from West of the São Toméan archipelago occurs. The
African coast. On july 12th, 1975 the ancient August program of culture, institutionalized
portuguese colony, became free from the by the regional authorities few years ago,
oppressive regime. aims to take advantage of the month
that marks the São Lourenço celebration
Finally after about 540 years of colonial party, to promote and disseminate the rich
regime, where auctotone people had no artistic and cultural heritage of the island of
own cultural expression, abused by foreign Principe. This is a special moment when the
people, obliged to speak a language which island receives many visits of tourists and
was imposed, coming from a civizilization emigrants. The exuberance of the island’s
of another continent, with different uses and nature is another product to be sold to the
customs, São Tome and Principe becomes a world, as well as the customs of the local
country with its own flag, National anthem people. During this month, several cultural
and international representation among UN activities can be seen, like next indicated on
countries. 5 and 6:

3.
Celebrating this day at midnight on the
eve, the Homeland Flame arrives to the
independence Square coming from Batepá, São Tomé Gravana
place of symbolic 1953 massacre day, Festival
and His Excellency the President of the
Annually on August occur the so called
Republic lights up the fire in the presence
“Gravana Festival”, where people use to
of population, members of gouvernment,
gatter around the national park of the
invited dyplomatic body and civil society.
capital city, to participate in several activities,
like cultural parades, music festivals,
In this day at the independence Square, a
gastronomy sections with tasting of typical
tribune is built and before his Excellency

5.
dishes, fashion parades, and several parties
the President of Republic, President of the
and games. Accordingly to the Directorate
Parliament, President of Supreme Court,
of Culture, this is a great opportunity to
“DEXA”
Ministers and invited people, cultural
promote cultural diversity, as turistic offer.
manifestation and the military parade takes
This annual festival is the biggest São Tomé It is a cultural manifestation of the Autono-
place.
and Príncipe cultural, musical e recreative mous Region of the Principe Island. This
event. activity is held in the commemorations of
the party of Our Lady of Grace in this same
On this period because of relatively good region. But the participants first participate
wheather with sea temperature ranging in the Mass and at the end, they join in an
from 20o C to 23o C, flying fish is captured lndian queue and march around the city
in big quantities during months of June, dancing and singing to the house of one of
July and August, period called “GRAVANA” the parties chosen by the party committee.
and there are tasting events and parties in Traditional clothing is indispensable. The
catering houses, like bars, restaurants, kiosks Lords wear white shirt with black pants and
the ladies wear white blouse and skirts of

2. King Amador’s Day

along of the São Tomé Island.
black color to the feet.

Every January 4th we celebrate

King Amador’s Day, representing the
determination of Saotomean people lead by
Amador Vieira, the emblematic capitain of
slaves on 1595.

His history is covered by myths and

mysteries, like many leaders from his era.
Amador has been self- proclaimed “General
Capitain of war”. The “King“ attacked the
city of São Tome with 5000 men, about half
of slave population in the Island. Despite
being in greater number, the rebellious were
inferiorly armed and was defeated.
42
6. “Auto of Floripes”
• 8 September Mother of God, Madre de group of about two dozen of participants,
Deus; all skillful dancers, including a person who
• 9 and 10 September Bom Despacho, City of commands and directs, named Captain of
Part of the celebration held each year in Sao Tome; the Congo.
the Autonomous Region of Principe Island • 3 October Our Lady of Guadalupe,
called “São Lourenço”, is of great impor- Guadalupe;
tance for the natives, since it celebrates the • 2nd week of October Saint Teresinha,
commemoration of the discovery of the Madalena;
island in January 17th 1471. Being a legend, • 21 December Saint Tomé, City of Sao Tome.
the Auto de Florípes tells the story of Moors
and Christians. After a mass celebration next of procession
and on the day before too, we can enjoy
several types of cultural manifestations, like
seen next on ; 8, 9, 11,1 2, 13, 14 and 15.

8. TCHILOLI 10. Puita

The Tragedy of Emperor
Carloto Magno and the Puita is a strongly special dance introduced
in São Tome and Principe by angolan people
Marquis of Mantua coming to work in farmers.
Based on the sixteenth-century text of the

7. Cultural and Religious Madeiran poet Baltasar Dias, it is believed Men and women form Indian queues, and in
that the “Auto of Tchiloli” and the habit of the mix with a few semi-swivels, they clash
their bodies. When a relative dies it is usual
Celebrations representing have been brought to São Tomé
by the masters of sugar mills displaced here. to exhibited it in honor of the spirits of the
Sao Tome and Principe is a country where However, over time, the local population dead.
the majority of population is traditionally appropriated this representation, building
Catholic, highly influenced by myths, and their own show and today it constitutes their Traditionally it is said that failure to comply
rituals that is part of our tradition, beliefs culture. with this ritual can lead to misadventures in
and culture of the people. During the year, the family. But puita is played on many other
there are many religious celebrations that occasions, being one of the most popular
give color and human warmth to the cities, forms of music in S. Tomé.
villages and towns, from north to south.
These celebrations offer excellent moments
for photos and meetings with the population.

The celebrations usually consist of: novenas,

solemn masses, pro- cession in honor of the
patron saint, food and drink refreshments
and culminate with dancing and various
cultural events.

9. DANÇO CONGO
As the name says, the “Danço-Congo” or the
Dance of the Captain, has its origin in Congo,
11. D’ jambi
having been introduced in the island of São Similar to the puita, but ordered with
Tomé by slaves in the colonial era. other objectives, the d’jambi is a ritual with
curative powers. The healers, when dancing,
go into trance, then submitting the patient
to ritual practices where supernatural figures
are invoked and established contacts with
Amongst them we highlight:
spirits of deceased individuals. There are
• 10 January Saint Isidoro of Ribeira Afonso;
also frequent phenomena of insensitivity
• 24 March Our Lady of Graça, in the Sé
to tiredness and pain (danced through the
Cathedral in Sao Tome;
night, walking on embers, injuring one’s own
• 1 and 2 May God Father, Trindade;
body, etc.). Colonial and religious authorities
• 30 July Saint Ana, Santana;
have always tried to ban the d’jambi because
• 9 and 10 August Our Lady of Neves, Neves;
of their obvious connotations with witchcraft
• 1 September Nossa Senhora de Nazaré,
and animist rituals on the African continent.
Trindade; It is a cultural manifestation exhibited at
religious and popular festivals, based on a
43
 14. Stleva 16. Carnival Week
Stleva is a cultural manifestation that exists On February, there is a period known
only in São Tomé and Príncipe. as “ashes”, when sao tome an people
eat traditional dishes from their rich
The same happens once a year, on Holy gastronomical culture, inside families home.
Wednesday, the last week of Lent. The name Preceeding this day, during three days
Stleva comes from the word “darkness” cultural groups wearing large coloured hats,
which means darkness, describing the days masks/glasses during the day and at night
when Jesus walked in darkness, about to be sing songs, which contents trend to criticize

12. Ússua crucified.

This justifies the fact that the groups of

negative behaviour of citizens condemned
by the society.

In this cultural manifestation pairs are led by Stléva, composed of 3 to 6 elements, take They make their journey from house to house
a master of ceremonies, to the slow rhythm to the streets at night with songs of scorn singing these kind of songs and showing
of the drum, whistle and horn. All dancers and ill -saying, singing in verses most of paints in accordance, receiving money from
wear traditional costumes: women in skirts the problems of society, the mistakes of the presente people or owner of backyards
and kimono, shawl or blanket; Men wear human being and forgiveness , highlighting where they scene.
hats and wear an embroidered towel on their the marital relationships sung in Creole liner.
arms. In last 10 years young people from schools
The instruments used are traditional, such began to promote cultural marches,
as: two bamboo sticks to set the time, and exhibiting no traditional wearings like
rattles. The members of the group use white painted faces with weird clothes along the
cloths tied to the head, arms and waist, capital city and villages streets.
symbolizing Jesus.

13. Bligá (Stick Game)

It is a mixture of dance and playful play, in 15. Bulawê 17. Tourism National Day
which the dexterity and physical force of the
game of the Transmontan stick combine with Since 2013 the tourism in Sao Tome and
Emerges based on the traditional dance Principe is usually cele- brated during one
a sophisticated corporality and gesture that
displayed with bamboo whistles, drums, week that has as highest point the August 24,
sometimes remind some oriental martial
dikanza, rattle and irons. The group consists “as a national tourism day”. In this celebration
arts. The bligá (which means fighting) was
of people of both sexes, who play, sing and we can find various culturals activities in
certainly one of the dances that gave birth
dance to brighten traditional and other public place, national musics by natioanal
to capoeira. This style was used by slaves,
small parties. The origin of “Bulawe” is still sin- gers and artists in the restaurants,
who used it as an art of self-defense without
unknown. There are historians who claim to gastronomic fairs, workshop, etc.
the authorities noticing it, gestures are
be “born” of festive environments in which
often spoiled (thus transforming action into
local leaflets were appreciated. Among the This is occasion for tourists, school boys and
representation) rather than being explicitly
groupings, descendant of angolans stand girls on holidays, civil society and population
executed.
out. in general, taste innovative dishes based on
local products, drinks from natural herbs,
teas from aromatic plants. They are called to
assist sportive activities, fashion show, and
music show, too.

44
SIERRA LEONE
Cultural Events

45
 1. Bubu Cultural Festival
The bubu cultural festival in Sierra Leone
comes with a lot of cultural arts, dance
and partying across the city of Freetown,
this traditional dance happens during the
dry season, which is between November
to April. The dance is called Bubu dance
because of traditional instruments which
produces different harmonious sounds .This
is the bubu masquerade dressed in different
cultural attires. The purpose of this event is
to encourage cultural arts and creativity from
the different tribes in Sierra Leone.

2. Lantern Parade Festivals

Lantern parade festivals can be traced way back in the 1930’s when a trader by
the name of Daddy Maggy introduced the custom of parading with lanterns in
Freetown. This is one of Sierra Leone’s most popular events and has great religious
and historic significance. It is normally organized during Independence anniversary
celebrations in April every year. The lantern festivals are competitive based, between
neighbourhoods in Freetown. The assessment is based on creativity, performances
depicting the traditional and cultural activities of Sierra Leone, supporters of various
lanterns do gather at the High court of Sierra Leone (Siaka Stevens Street) to witness
the final display for assessment by selected judges.

Thousands of Sierra Leoneans from all corners of the country do come out to
celebrate the lantern festivals. This is also called Independence Lantern Parade.
There were 33 lantern floats in total and of those, 20 were designed to showcase free
health care. Freetown’s lantern parade goes back many years. The curfew days of the
military juntas brought lantern activity to a standstill and almost killed this exciting
and creative manifestation of Freetown’s spirit.

3. Devil Dancing
Everyone enjoys Sierra Leone devil dancing. The
drumming has an infectious beat. The devils are
completely covered to show no sign of the human
under a raffia costume disguise that’s flying around
with their wild dancing. It’s exotic. It’s colorful. It’s
festive. This tradition of devil dancing can be traced
far back, before colonialism. The secret societies that
are engaged in this devil dancing are mostly hired or
invited for special occasions like, weeding ceremonies
or as means of social cohesion. The devil dance can
be at any given time there are no specificity as to
period,as it mostly used for entertaining people on
various occasions and functions,

46
 SUDAN
Cultural Events

47
 3. Prophet Muhammad's
Many events in Sudan are related to the with family and friends. The festival usually
country's main religion, Islam. These include lasts for two to three days, during which time
Mawlid an Nabi and Eid al-Fitr. It should be there are several trips to the mosque.
born in mind that the exact date of these Birthday
religious events varies from year to year, and so
if you are planning a holiday and would like to
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday is a public
holiday in Sudan and is observed by most
of the population, which is overwhelmingly
4. Sudan Calendar of
time your visit accordingly, be sure to do your
research and check the year's current date. Muslim. Since Sudan is mostly Sunni, Festivals and Events
Muhammad’s Birthday is celebrated on 12 Rabi
al-Awwal instead of on 17 Rabi al-Awwal as the JANUARY
Several cultural festivals also appear on Independence Day - January 1st, celebrates
Sudan's calendar, ranging from a huge book Shia calculation would have it.
independence from Egypt and from British
fair to a theatre extravaganza. Being the rule.
capital city, Khartoum tends to play a central What’s different in Sudan when it comes to
Muhammad’s Birthday is that the celebration Khartoum International Trade Fair - a large
part in the events scene of Sudan, offering export event that brings together the business
plenty of seasonal things to do and partake of starts 12 days early. There are nearly two weeks
of celebration culminating on the prophet’s community from both within and outside
throughout the course of the year. Sudan.
birthday itself.
The Khartoum International Trade Fair kicks FEBRUARY
off proceedings each year in January, being Al-Mawlid al-Nabawi, “the birthday of the
prophet”, has been celebrated by Muslims Mawlid an-Nabi - street-based celebration of
followed by the Annual Flower Festival in the birth of Prophet Mohammed. Traditional
February, the Nile Print Expo and the Al Bugaa since the early days of Islam, being instituted
by many of the immediate successors of dancing and food stalls throughout the
International Theatre Festival in March, and country.
the Tourism and Marketing Fair every April. Muhammad’s first “inner circle” of followers.
Nonetheless, since it’s not taught in the Koran, Annual Flower Festival - a Khartoum-based
Later on in the year, Khartoum's International event where prizes are awarded for various
Music Fest and International Book Fair each those of the Salafi sect in Sudan consider it an
unworthy “innovation”. horticultural categories, which include
October are additional highlights and not to commercial and foreign growers.
be missed if your visit coincides with these
happenings. The Sufi strand of Islam embraces Prophet
Muhammad’s Birthday with the most MARCH

1. Independence Day enthusiasm. They gather in public squares Nile Print Expo - held at Khartoum
to recite Koranic verses, pray, hear lectures on International Fair Ground. The exhibition
Muhammad’s life and teachings, and carry on offers an invaluable platform for Sudan's
other traditions. developing sector.
Independence Day in Sudan falls on 1 January,
Al Bugaa International Theatre Festival -
the same as New Year’s Day on the Gregorian
The majority in Sudan, however, don’t care staged in collaboration with the International
(Western) Calendar. It is a public holiday
much about the dispute about celebrating the Theatre Institute in Paris. Held in Khartoum
celebrating the declaration of independence
prophet’s birthday. They may stop by the public over the course of several days during March.
from Anglo-Egyptian joint rule in 1956.
square on Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday and Khartoum Cycle Race - a new event that
buy some occasion-specific candy for their finishes outside the secretariat of the state
Egypt and the UK had jointly ruled Sudan for
kids. But they neither get heavily involved nor government of Khartoum.
nearly 60 years, but when Sudan declared its
freedom in 1958, there was no real opposition. oppose the holiday’s events.
APRIL
The new Sudanese government simply held a
Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan) Tourism and Marketing Fair - held in
ceremony whereby they lowered the flags of
Sudan is an Islamic nation, which is why Eid Khartoum and aimed at encouraging internal
Egypt and Britain and raised their own flag.
al-Fitr, a holiday celebrating the end of the and foreign tourism.
Not one shot was fired.
holy month Ramadan and the end of the Sham Al Nassim - spring holiday each April

2. Islamic New Year fasting period, is a big deal. Celebrations that is celebrated with dancing, music and
are held all over the country in August, with other similar festivities.
mass ceremonies taking place in mosques
Islamic New Year (Awal Muharram) is a public everywhere. The main events on the day are MAY
holiday in Sudan. The first day of the first largely family-based, with families gathering Mafrosh Book Fair - a second-hand book fair
month of the Islamic Calendar corresponds for a veritable feast, the exchange of gifts, and and exchange market, which has become
to the day in C.E. 622 when Muhammad took a look back at the month and what it meant in popular with Sudan's intellectuals. The fair is
flight from Mecca to Medina. their lives. held at Eteni Square in Khartoum.

Around 97 percent of Sudan’s people are Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice) JUNE
Muslims, and most of these are Sunni and Another important Islamic day, this time in Revolution Day - June 30th, events are
follow Sufi traditions. Upon the sighting of the October, is the Feast of the Sacrifice. The story organized on the last day of June to mark the
crescent moon, the new month and new year in the Koran which tells the tale of Ibrahim and overthrow of Jaffar Numeiry in 1985.
is officially declared each year by the moon- his willingness to sacrifice his first-born son Cultural Festival, Sudan Gala Nights - held at
sighting committee. to Allah resonates strongly with people of the a different venue each year to celebrate the arts
Islamic faith. So strongly that believers around and human sciences.
Sudan slaughter sheep and hold great feasts

48
JULY OCTOBER NOVEMBER
There are no significant festivals in Sudan Khartoum International Music Festival - European Film Festival - held in Khartoum
during the month of July. includes the participation of musicians from each November. Some Sudanese films are also
all over the world. Held over the course of a screened.
AUGUST week. Islamic New Year - also known as the Hijri New
Eid al-Fitr - a three-day event that celebrates Khartoum International Book Fair - Year. This marks the first day of Muharram on
the end of the holy month of Ramadan. The booksellers and publishers participate in this the Islamic calendar.
festival is held in mosques and within family hugely popular book fair.
homes, where relatives gather together to Sufi Holiya Festival - a traditional festival of DECEMBER
exchange gifts. dance and music in Sudan. Hymns are sung Agro Food Khartoum - held at the
and a parade is held. International Exhibition Center in Sudan's
SEPTEMBER capital. Showcases all things related to the
There are no significant festivals in Sudan country's food industry.
during the month of September.

49
 TANZANIA
Cultural Events

50
 1st January, 2018 to 28th February, 2018; Final participation in the Tulia Traditional Dances
screening of short listed films – 15th February, Festival would in turn increase their visibility
2018 till 28th February, 2018 and Award Nite – and assist them to access more opportunities
1st April, 2018. to perform including at district, regional and
national levels. These opportunities would
serve as seasonal employment thereby helping
them to fight poverty not only for the group

1. Sauti Za Busara Music

members but their entire families and the
communities they belong to. As such, Tulia
Traditional Dances Festival fights poverty in the
Festival communities through creation of employment
to the traditional dances groups. Tulia Trust
The Sauti Busara Festival East Africa’s best loved also assists traditional dances groups to access

4. Dr Tulia Traditional
annual music festival, takes place in February the opportunities like performing in different
every year in the heart of Stone Town, Zanzibar. festivals and events’
This is an event that different artists perform. Source: https://www.tuliatrust.org/tulia-
Dances Festival traditional-dances-festival/
Sauti Za Busara is an annual music festival
commenced in 2004. This festival brings The Tulia Trust was founded in 2015 by Hon. Dr.
people together in celebration of the richness Tulia Ackson. Dr Tulia (dancing in blue jeans
and variety of African music from a deverse above) is the Deputy Speaker of the National
selection of artist from across the continent Assembly of Tanzania.
and diaspora. The festival also develops skills
and promotes the livelihoods of the people of The Tulia Trust, under its Tulia Traditional
Zanzibar. It features almost 50 performances Dances Festival program, holds annual

5.
on three stages as well as a number of other traditional dances festivals in different
exciting activities in the heart of Stone Town in
Zanzibar for four days.
places in Tanzania. Under the auspices of the Zanzibar International
Tulia Traditional Dances Festival brand, we
successfully held the first traditional dances Film Festival

2. The Nyamachoma festival on 7th and 8th October 2016 in Tukuyu

Town, Rungwe District, in Mbeya Region. Zanzibar International Film Festival is an
Festival annual Film Festival commenced in 1998. It is
The Festival attracted ten categories of the largest annual cultural event which also
The Nyama Choma Festival, Dar es Salaam, traditional dances, thus, Ing’oma, Maghosi, known as festival of the Dhow Countries. It
Tanzania. The Largest Barbecue showcase Ipenenga, Kimwenge, Samba, Nkyesyo, aims at promoting film and other cultural
festival in East Africa. Kibhota, Kapote, Ndingala and Kitumbwike. industries as catalyst for the regional social and
The ten dances are commonly practiced in three economic growth. The event estimates to host
councils, namely, Rungwe District Council, 7000 western tourists who come to Zanzibar
Kyela District Council and Busokelo Council to attend the festival and the total festival
all of which participated in the Festival. Out of audience are in excess of 100,000 with wide
62 participating groups, 27 groups emerged appeal across race, class and religions.
winners. Apart from the 1,100 participants,
the Tulia Traditional Dances Festival attracted The festival is an all-arts affair, with 8 days
about 1,000 visitors from outside Mbeya of local and international discussion panels,

3. Sinema Zetu Region including Members of Parliament, workshops, 10 days of screenings of the best
Ambassadors, Ministers/Deputy Ministers local and international cinema and evenings
and other government officials. The Festival of musical concerts including a Gala each
International Film Festival was graced by Hon. Nape Moses Nnauye, the evening. The festival awards.
then Minister for Information, Sports, Arts and
(SZIFF ) is a competitive unique event where Culture. The Festival attracted about 23,000 In this festival, the Emreson’s Zanzibar
Documentaries, Short Films and Feature viewers in total. This being the first time for Foundation awards the unique and significant
films produced in Kiswahili language will be such an event to be organized, we consider it emerging local film talent produced by
screened in mini screen. The platform provides to have been a great success thereby nurturing Zanzibari film makers through Emerson’s Film
every film enthusiast, a platform to screen their our culture and traditions. Award.
movies through ‘Sinema Zetu’, the flagship
movie channel of Azam PayTv Limited. The In line with the vision and mission of Tulia The mission of the Award is to inspire
event is organised by Uhai Productions limited. Trust, the Tulia Traditional Dances Festival aims talented film makers in the archipelago, and
at promoting the rich traditions and culture of encouraging them to celebrate their culture,
The festival is usually scheduled from 1st of more than 120 ethnic communities in Tanzania history and stories about Zanzibar and also
January - 28th February. During the hours of through dances. This is primarily done to to promote talented Zanzibari film makers
screening, the channel will be available free-to- exhort the preservation of traditions and and support them in their career in the future.
view to all customers in Sub- Sahara. Last date culture for posterity. While the dance groups Emerson’s Film Award offers $1,000 presented
for submission of films – 30th November of the would be directly participating in preservation at the ZIFF Awards Ceremony.
previous year; For instance festival start date – of the Tanzanian traditions and cultures, their

51
 from Dodoma and other regions, Bongo Fleva their skills and proficiency, to promote social
which will take place at Nyerere Square. The awareness about institutional major activities,
Urithi Night took place at St. Gosper Hotel. to expose and support activities of the local
There was also a tour to the World Heritage artists, to encourage network among local
Site of Kondoa Rock paintings”. Source website and international artists, to promote mutual
https://www.urithiheritagefestival.co.tz/ cultural exchange, to recognize contribution
watch the video at https://www.youtube.com/ of local artist in development of arts and

6. Urithi Festival watch?v=IHDNikl_bp0&feature=youtu.be culture in Tanzania as the tool of poverty

7. Bagamoyo Festival of
reduction. This is a 7- day festival happening
at the last week of September every year
“Urithi Festival is an annual monthly event taking over at TaSUBa. This festival gives an
to celebrate Tanzania’s rich and diversified Arts and Culture opportunity to individual artists and groups to
cultural heritage. The festival aims at apply for participation so that to demonstrate
promoting and developing cultural heritage “Bagamoyo Festival of Arts and Culture has their talents and skills. The festival involve
assets as tourist products to make Tanzania gained an exceptional popularity as it gathers variety of activities, some of these include;
one of the world’s tourists destinations. The local and international artists and audiences performances, symposium and workshops
2018 Urithi Festival was launched on 15 th from all over the world. Over the last 30 years from local, national and international artists in
September 2018, at Jamhuri Stadium in the festival has become the most important both visual arts (Exhibitions) and performing
Dodoma. The launch was colored by a special art event in Tanzania, bringing together artists arts (Dance, Drama, Acrobatics, Music, Magic,
carnival, exhibitions of traditional art and craft, and audiences from different countries. Some Comedy etc)”.
culinary art exhibitions, traditional dances, of the objectives of this festival are to widen a Source http://tasuba.ac.tz/about-festival
entrepreneurs and music from ethnic groups learning platform of our students and promote

52
 ZAMBIA
Cultural Events

53
1. 2.
traditional food, fish, honey, the generosity
Muchinga Province Northern Province of the Vaka Chinyama. The Makishi and
Mukanda are central to the ceremony and
this is the reason why UNESCO recognizes
• CHINAMANOGO ceremony held in the • UKUSEFYA PA NG’WENA ceremony held
the Makishi as World Cultural Heritage. This
Mpika district in September presided by Snr in the Mungwi district in August presided
ceremony is jointly celebrated by people
Chief Kopa of the Bisa tribe. over by par Chief Chitimukulu of the Bemba
from Angola, Democratic Republic of Congo
tribe.
and Zambia.
• KWENJE Ceremony held in the Chama
District in October presided by Chief
Kambombo of the Tumbuka tribe.

• CHIKUNGU ceremony held in the Mafinga

district in Sepetember presided over by Chief
Mwenewisi of the Lambya/ Wandya tribe.

• CHIZUMBA NSANJE ceremony held in the

Isoka district in July presided over by Chief
Katyetye of the Tambo tribe. • MUKULU PEMBA ceremony held in the
Luwingu district in August presided over by
• MULAMBALALA ceremony held in the Snr Chieftainess Chungu of the Bemba tribe.
Chinasli district in August presided over by Walamo ceremony held in the Mpulungu
Chief Chewe kamponge of the tribe Bemba. district in September presided over by Chief
Tafuna of the Lungu tribe.
• VIKANKA NIMBA ceremony held in the
Isoka district in September presided over by • CHISAKA CHALUBOMBO ceremony held
Chief Muyambe of the Tumbuka tribe. in the Chilubi Island district in September
presided over by Chief Chwanangala of the
• INSONGE ceremony held in the Bisa tribe.
Shiwang’andu district in September presided
over by Chief Chibeskunda of the Bisa tribe. • MUTOMOLO ceremony held in the Mbala
district in June presided over by Chief
• CHAMBO CHALUTANGA ceremony held in Mambwe Lungu of the Mabwe/Lungu tribe
the Isoka district in September presided over
by Chief Mwenechifunge of the Mfungwe

3. North-Western Province
tribe.

• MULASA ceremony held in the Nakande

district in September presided over by
• KUFUKWILA ceremony held in the Solwezi
Chieftainess Nawaitwika of the Namwanga
district in August presided over by Snr Chief`
tribe.
Mukumbi of the Kaonde tribe. • LUNDA LUBANZA ceremony held in the
Zambezi district in August presided over by
• BISA MULAILA ceremony held in the Mpka
• JUBA JA NSOMO ceremony held in the Snr Chief Ishindi of the Lunda tribe.
district in September presided over by Chief
Kasempa district in June presided over by Snr
Nabwalya of the Bisa tribe.
Chief Kasempa of the kaonde tribe. • CHISEMBWA CHA LUNDA ceremony held
in the Mwinilunga district in September
• NG’ONDO ceremony held in the Isoka
• NKISU YA NSAMBI ceremony held in the presided over by Snr Chief Kanongesha of
district in November presided over by Chief
Solwezi district in June presided over by Snr the Lunda tribe.
kafwimbi of the Namwanga tribe.
Chief Musele of the Lunda tribe.
• LUKWAKWA ceremony held in the
• NAMULINDA ceremony held in the isoka
• UKUPUPA ceremony held in the Solwezi Kabompo district in October presided over
district in October presided over by Chief
district in July presided over by Snr Chief by Snr Chief Sikufele of the Mbunda tribe.
Mulekatatembo of the Nyika tribe.
Kalilele of the Lamba tribe.
• NYAUNDA ceremony held in the
• LIKUMBI LYA MIZE Likumbi Lya Mize Mwinilunga district in July presided over by
Festival is a Traditional Ceremony for the Snr Chief Saliunga of the Lunda tribe.
Vaka Chinyama Chamukwamai people. The
ceremony reveals the grand entrance of the • NKAMBI ceremony held in the Mwinilunga
the royal highness in the main arena, the district in September presided over by Snr
rising of the Makishi masquerades, the royal Chief Majimanzovu of the Kaonde tribe.
greetings, the Chilende and drumming skills,
the Kachacha dance, the Tundaji also known • NKANSHANGO MUNSHITOLWA
as the male initiates, the Myali also known ceremony held in the Solwezi district in July
as girl initiates, the unique are and craft, the presided over by Chief Musaka of the Lamba
tribe.
54
4. North-Western 5. Southern Province
• BAGANDE ceremony held in the Siavonga
district in November presided over by Chief
Simamba of the Takaleya tribe.
Province • LWINDI GONDE ceremony held in the
Monze district in July presided over by Snr • KOABAZE KAMKONDE ceremony held in
• CHIBUYE MUKALAKALA ceremony held in the Kalomo district in November presided
Chief Monze of the Tonga tribe.
the Solwezi district in August presided over over by Chief Simwatachele of the Tonga
by Chief Mulonga of the Lamaba tribe. tribe.

• BWEETE ceremony held in the Mwinilunga

district in August presided over by Chief
Ntambu of the kaonde tribe.

• NSAKWA YAB KAONDE ceremony held

in the Solwezi district in October presided
overby Kaonde Chieves of the Kaonde tribe.

• NTONGO ceremony held in the Mufumbwe

district in June presided over by Chief Chizera
of the Kaonde tribe.
• MALIKO MALINDI LWINDI ceremony
• CHIVWEKA ceremony held in the
held in the Sinazongwe district in August
kabompo district in July presided over by
presided over by Chief Sinazongwe of the
Chief Kalunga of the Luchazi tribe. • BENE MUKUNI ceremony held in the
Tonga tribe.
Kazungula district in July presided over by
• KUNYATA NTANDA ceremony held in the Chief Mukuli of the Taka leya tribe.
• MUSUMU MUYUMU ceremony held in the
Solwezi district in July presided over by Chief

6. Western Province
Kalomo district in Augusst presided over by
Kapijimpanga of the Kaonde tribe.
Chief Sipatunyana of the Tonga tribe.
• LUBINDA NTONGO ceremony held in the
• SIKAUMBA ceremony hel in the Namwala
Mufumbwe district in August presided over • KOUMBOKA ceremony held in the Mongu
district in August presided over by Chief
by Chief Mumena of the Kaonde tribe. district in Mrch presided over by the Lifunga
Mukobela of the Illa tribe.
of the lozi tribe.
• MAKUNDU ceremony held in the
• LUKUNI LUZWA BUKA ceremony held in
Mufumbwe district in September presided • KOUMBOKA NALOLO ceremony held in
the Kazungula district in August presided
over by Chief Mushima of the Kaonde tribe. the Senanga district in May presided over by
over by Chief Musokotwane of the Tokaleya
tribe. Lifunga La Mboela of the lozi tribe.
• MBUNDA LIYOYELO ceremony held in the
Kabompo district in September presided • KOUMBOKA LIBONDA ceremony held in
• KAZANGA MAKONDA ceremony held
over by Chief Chyengele of the Mbunda the Kalabo district in May presided over by
in the Kazungula district in September
tribe. Chieftainess Mboanjikana of the Lozi tribe.
presided over by Chief Moomba of the
Nkoya tribe. • KAZANGA ceremony held in the Kaoma
• KUVULA KISHAKULU ceremony held in
the Solwezi district in September presided
• GUTA BWEENZA BWE ceremony held
over by Chief Matebo of the Kaonde tribe.
in the Kazungula district in September
presided over by Chief Nyawa of the Tonga
• CHIDIKA CHA MVULA ceremony held in
tribe.
the Mwinilunga district in October presided
over by Chief Kanyama of the Lunda tribe.
• SHIMUNENGA ceremony held in the
Namwala district in October presided over
by Chief Mungaila of the ila tribe.

• CHUNGU ceremony held in the Kalomo

district in October presided over by Chief
Chikanta of the Tonga tribe.
district in July presided over by Chief
• MAANZI AABILA LWINDI ceremony held Mutondo and Kahare of the Nkoya tribe.
in the Kalomo district in October presided
over by Chief Siachitema of the Tonga tribe. • CHEKE ceremony held in the Mongu
district in September presided over by
• LWINDI SEKUTE ceremony held in the Mbunda Chieves of the Mbunda tribe.
Kazungula district in October presided over
by Chief Sekute of the Tong tribe.

55
 ZIMBABWE
Cultural Events

56
 10. Chimanimani Arts
welcome the spirit of the dead, to spiritually
guide the family.

5. Bira Festival
This a three day annual event in
Bira, is a Shona possession ceremony where Chimanimani, a town in the Eastern
the Shona people when they want to seek Highlands of Zimbabwe. During the event.
for spiritual guidance from the ancestors. A show of art, crafts, theatre, film, music and
poetry will be the order of the day.

1. The Mbende Jerusarema 6. Harare International 11. Midlands Arts and

Festival of Arts (HIFA)
The Mbende Jerusarema Dance is practised Cultural Festival (MACfest)
by the Zezuru Shona people of Murehwa It is an annual event to showcase premier
arts and culture and various cultural This week-long festival takes place in
performances will be taking place. These the city of Gweru and comprises music,
include music, theatre, dance, song, visual theatre, workshops for writers as well as
arts, crafts and designs. cultural tours to different cultural places like
Danan’ombe Ruins, Natalie Ruins and the

7. Zimbabwe Culture National Museum

Week 12. Zimbabwe

This is a seven day event whereby people International Bookfair
will be celebrating cultural diversity in (ZIBF)
2. Mbira Dance
Zimbabwe through various means such as
folklore, traditional cultural expressions This is a literature event that showcases
such as traditional canonations ( kurova journals, books, CDs and DVDs from
Mbira Dance, a religious Shona dance in hakata). Different cultural and artistic the African continent. Various activities
ancestral ceremonies such as Bira. expressions will be taking place. The motive including readings and workshops will also
behind would be aimed at preserving, be taking place during the festival
appreciating and promoting all arts and

13. Annual Chibuku

cultural activities in the country.

8. Zimbabwe Neshamwari Festival

International Carnival/ This is a competition of traditional dance
Harare International groups from around the country. Most
popular dances include Mbende, Nyau,
Carnival Mbakumba, among others.

3. Mukwerera People from different countries converge

in Zimbabwe in the annual ten-day event,
celebrating cultural diversity as people
14. Intwasa Arts Festival
Mukwerera, a rain-making ceremony, called express their cultures in different forms. A five day event showcasing music, dance,
Umtolo in Ndebele

9. Zimbabwe
drama, visual arts and workshops in
Bulawayo. The main motive is promotion of
local culture and tourism in the country.
International Film Festival
(ZIFF)
Feature films, documentaries and short
films are showcased during the 10 days
of the festival. Furthermore, cultural and
educational events in regard to film as well
as discussions and workshops on the same,

4. Kuruva Guva
will be taking place.

Kurova guva ceremony, a ceremony to

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