The second edition of the East Africa Art and Culture Festival successfully concluded in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, after four days of vibrant artistic expression and cultural exchange. Held from March 20 to 24, 2025, the festival brought together cultural troupes, artists, and performers from ten East African nations, reinforcing the region’s shared heritage and fostering greater unity among diverse communities.
The festival featured various performances, including traditional music, dance, poetry recitations, and contemporary art exhibitions. It served as a platform for regional artists to showcase their talent, engage in cross-border collaborations, and celebrate the rich cultural traditions that define East Africa.
Ethiopian Minister of Culture and Tourism, Alemayehu Tesfaye, praised the festival’s role in promoting cultural diplomacy and strengthening regional ties. “This festival is more than just an event; it is a testament to our unity as East Africans. Through art, we bridge gaps and foster mutual understanding,” he stated during his opening address.
Participating nations, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, Somalia, Djibouti, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, presented diverse performances highlighting their unique cultural identities while underscoring their historical and linguistic connections. Kenyan acrobats wowed audiences with their gravity-defying stunts, while Rwandan drummers captivated crowds with their rhythmic beats. Somali poets shared evocative verses depicting their people’s resilience, and Tanzanian painters displayed intricate artworks that narrated stories of heritage and identity.
Beyond performances, the festival hosted cultural workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions for artists, historians, and cultural enthusiasts. These sessions explored art’s role in peacebuilding, globalization’s impact on traditional practices, and strategies for preserving indigenous cultures.
Festival-goers appreciated the initiative, noting its importance in celebrating the region’s cultural wealth and fostering inter-country relationships. “This festival is a reflection of who we are as East Africans. Our shared history and traditions unite us, and this platform allows us to express that creatively,” said Ugandan dancer Miriam Akello.
The festival concluded with a grand finale featuring a fusion of performances from all participating countries, symbolizing unity in diversity. Organizers have already hinted at plans for the third edition, with a vision to expand the event’s reach and impact across the continent.
The East Africa Art and Culture Festival has once again proven to be a cornerstone in promoting regional integration through art, reinforcing cultural pride, and building a more interconnected East African community.
