The inaugural edition of Creation Africa Ghana wrapped up with resounding success on November 9^th 2024, during Creation Africa Ghana: The Festival. The event, in collaboration with Alliance Française Accra and Impact Hub Accra, celebrated the vibrancy of Ghana’s creative industries by highlighting the talents involved in its pioneering program for young creators and entrepreneurs across Ghana. Offering a blend of music, film, theater, pop-up stands, and food, the festival attracted a diverse crowd of about 1,000 culture enthusiasts, artists, families, and entrepreneurs, eager to experience the pulse of Ghanaian creativity.

One of the most popular attractions was the vibrant collection of pop-up stands showcasing Ghana’s finest craft, design, digital and publishing talents, including Kayadua Studio, The Revival Earth Organization, Fearnomanclothing, Afro Ele Studio, Wear Ghana, Akese Homeware, Xetoto Arts Foundation, Bonobo Concept Store, Grey Area Studios, Leti Arts, SPiiKA, Acute Formula, Moongirls, Booksie and Fish & Plankton. 

The live music performances were another highlight of the evening, with a diverse lineup of Ghanaian talent gracing the stage. Pamm Takyiwaa and renowned artist Ria Boss hosted Ria Boss Open Mic, which featured rising stars like Ess Thee Legend, Stella Sena, and Boyd. The concert was brought to a beautiful close by headliner Pure Akan, whose performance captivated the audience with his blend of Afrobeat, rap, highlife and culturally-infused lyrics. 

The festival also featured a delightful stage adaptation of Emily Williamson’s Gizo-Gizo: A Tale from the Zongo Lagoon, produced by Booksie in collaboration with Vivie’s Dance & Theatre Academy. The production, which enthralled the audience with its powerful storytelling and engaging performances, explored themes of community and environmental sustainability.

For film lovers, the festival presented a curated selection of short films by Ghanaian filmmakers, each exploring themes ranging from African identity, to sport and self-expression. Screenings included Neverland by Grey Area Studios, Fa Ma Omo (Give it to Them) by Emmanuel Addy, Born of the Earth by Kuukua Eshun, Breaking the Mold by Michael Ansah and the trailer premiere of TANTRA by Helel Smith.  

In addition to the vibrant art performances, the festival offered a thought-provoking element with the sound documentary L’avenir est Déjà Ici (The Future is Already Here) by Joewackle J. Kusi and Konstantina Stavropoulou. The documentary explored antifascist activism in Brest, France, offering reflections on the rise of extremism and the power of community resilience. 

The festival also featured a live podcast recording by Jambo Spaces, a platform dedicated to celebrating African creativity and storytelling. It featured creators and culture enthusiasts and provided a fun space to engage in conversations around art and community. 

Another highlight of the festival was the showcase of Ghana’s rich culinary traditions through a delightful gastronomic journey curated by the Ghana Food Movement. The menu featured innovative twists on local classics, providing attendees with a true taste of Ghana’s vibrant culinary heritage. 

The entire event was expertly hosted by MC Kobby Graham, whose dynamic presence ensured an engaging atmosphere throughout the day. 

Creation Africa Ghana: The Festival was more than just a gathering; it was a testament to the strength of Ghana’s creative industries and the resilience of young Ghanaian entrepreneurs. It also marked the culmination of a significant milestone in the renewed partnership between France and Ghana – one grounded in co-construction and mutual support. Through mentorship, networking, and cross-cultural exchange, Creation Africa Ghana has solidified its place as a vital platform for showcasing the wealth of talent emerging from Ghana.

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