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Chaos, Culture, and Charm: My Journey Through a few African Festivals

With a plethora of diverse cultures and various customs flourished around, Africa, each nation or region has its own distinct commemorative events to celebrate its heritage. As a traveler and a writer, I have been privileged to take part in a few of these festivities and each one has been a remarkable experience into the core of African culture for me.


Cairo International Film Festival, Egypt.

A group of individuals stands on stage during the 44th Cairo International Film Festival. The screen behind them displays the title "My Girl Friend" by Kawthar Younis, who won the Special Jury Award for the short film competition in 2022. The stage features elegant lighting and festival branding.
Winners celebrate their achievements at the 44th Cairo International Film Festival, with Kawthar Younis receiving the Special Jury Award for the short film competition in 2022.

Cairo International Film Festival is one of the most well known cultural events of Africa and has earned global recognition in the world film scene for strengthening the cinema. This festival which occurs on a yearly basis in the heart of Egypt attracts actors, directors and audience from every corner of the world. It features an array of films ranging from indigenous classics to international cinematic masterpieces. More than just the appreciation of films, the festival fosters dialogues amongst artists and hence enhances inter-cultural relations. Witnessing these films in Cairo’s busy city centre was most inspirational and helped me appreciate the power of the storyline even more.


Kano Cultural Festival, Nigeria

One of the colored famous festivals of the area is the kano cultural festival that has its origins in the customs of the people of northern Nigeria. Numerous events which include music, dance, theater and other traditional crafts are undertaken every year to promote the zone’s culture. Many people view it in a more religious perspective because it is likely to be observed at the end of the Muslims Holy month of Ramadan. It was certainly a spectacle to behold the colorful horsemen in attires that were used during the well-decorated durbars. The excitement and the splendor of the occasion express the richness and the diversity of the cultures in Nigeria and the Hausa people.


Marrakech Jazz Festival, Morocco

Streets of the Marrakech city combined with historic buildings provide the best scenes for such events as the Marrakech Jazz Festival where tunes of jazz are blended into those of the city. Prominent musicians tour the world and collaborate with local singers creating a delightful compilation of music. It was very captivating to be part of this event as the music brought people together during special times and broke language barriers. It could be interesting to the people in those cultures and the event created even more intense memories.


Nelson Mandela International Day, South Africa

In honor of the African leader Nelson Mandela, Nelson Mandela International Day is celebrated on July 18th. The day invites people across the world to spend 67 minutes in action in remembrance of the 67 years of service which Mandela rendered in the fight against oppression and injustice. The focus of South Africa’s events is also to revive and honour Mandela’s aim of peace and unity. July 18 has been designated for such events which have also included musical and artistic performances. I was grateful to help communities as part of a worthwhile cause on this day which was a lesson of compassion and cooperation.


Other Notable Festivals Across Africa

Rwandan cultural dance one of stunning Festivals you can't miss

But in addition to these important celebrations, Africa has countless other festivals and each of these has its own story and significance. Ghana has a national event on March 6 to mark its independence from colonial rule, accompanied by parades, musical shows and artistic displays. Moi Day in Kenya integrates community service and love for the country, thereby bringing people together to reflect on the past of the country. Tanzania’s Ebony Festival showcases the talents of nation’s artist in song, dance, and visual art in a complete cultural package.

African agricultural festivals embody the fabrics of African culture and bring forth the colorful outlaws within it. African festivals are an integral manifestation of African tourism.

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