The festival is way to honor the sub-region’s rich cultural history and its importance to the world. On Saturday, June 22, the University of Ghana will host a magnificent performance to cap it off.
Distinguished guests at the launch included Ghana’s Second Lady, Samira Bawumia, CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Akwasi Agyeman, and Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Andrew Agyapa Mercer. Delegates from other West African nations were also present.
HipHopPreneur and marketing strategist Professor Jasmine Young, MUSIGA President Bessa Simons, officials from Global A&R Warner Recorded Music, and a number of musicians and music executives, such as Efya, Reggie Rockstone, and Trigmatic, were among the other dignitaries in attendance.
In his opening remarks, Ghana Tourism Authority CEO Akwasi Agyeman emphasized the need for collaboration among West African countries to preserve and advance their musical cultural heritage.
He emphasized Ghana’s ongoing efforts to become the center of meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) in West Africa in order to foster a vibrant music scene that preserves and celebrates local culture.
“We are committed to establishing Ghana as a central hub for cultural and music events in West Africa,” Agyeman said. “It is imperative that we work together to share our expertise and create a robust platform that not only preserves our rich cultural traditions but also propels our music onto the global stage.”
Kabiru Bello, vice president of worldwide A&R at Warner Recorded Music, advocated for more funding to provide artists more visibility and international chances.
“We need to create more avenues for our talented artists to gain international recognition and expand their reach. Investing in these areas will ensure that our music resonates globally,” he stated.
Professor Jasmine Young, director of Howard University’s Warner Music Blavatnik Center for Music Business, emphasized the importance of keeping the festival going for future generations.
“WAMAFEST is more than just a celebration; it is a platform that can give back to society by amplifying the powerful voice that music provides. It’s crucial that we continue this festival in the coming years to nurture and showcase our talent.”
WAMAFEST
WAMAFEST is a 4-day celebration of West African music, arts, and culture. It kicked off on June 19, 2024, at Accra’s Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park.
The festival in its maiden edition will feature a music industry conference, panel discussions, workshops, art installations, performances by top artistes, masterclasses with industry icons and a Juneteenth Parade, promoting tourism and economic development in the sub region.
