Ghana prepares to host inaugural AFESTACC 2026 from December 9

Accra is set to host the first-ever African Festival of Arts, Culture and Creatives (AFESTACC 2026) from December 9 to 12. This four-day event is a joint initiative between the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) and Ghana’s Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts. It aims to position Ghana as a central hub for continental cultural exchange while celebrating the vast heritage and artistic potential of the African continent.

The festival will be centered at key locations in the capital, including the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel and the National Theatre. Activities will span various sectors of the creative economy, focusing specifically on fashion, gastronomy, and investment. By showcasing Africa’s diverse cultural expressions, AFESTACC seeks to provide young Africans with exposure to international standards and foster a strong sense of cultural identity through new entrepreneurial opportunities.

Tourism Minister Dzifa Gomashie emphasized the festival's significance in promoting Pan-African ideals and creating partnerships to unlock economic growth within the creative sector. The event is scheduled to coincide with Industrial Skills Week Africa (ISWA 2026), an initiative aimed at aligning skills development with the needs of modern industry. This synergy highlights the festival's dual role as both a cultural celebration and a platform for practical industrial and creative advancement.

Aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, AFESTACC 2026 is designed to build lasting connections within the creative industries across Africa. Organizers are currently finalising preparations to ensure the event serves as a meaningful milestone for the continent’s creative economy. Participants and stakeholders from across the region are encouraged to engage with the festival to support the growth of Africa's cultural landscape.