The sights, sounds and flavours of Africa have taken over Tübingen, Germany, where Antigua and Barbuda’s Ian Joseph is among participants experiencing four days of culture, entertainment, tourism promotion and international networking at the 26th Afrika Festival.

Speaking to Antigua.news by telephone from Germany, Joseph described an event buzzing with activity, bringing together people from different countries to celebrate African heritage while also creating space for serious conversations about tourism, business and trade.

Joseph, who is attending the annual festival for the third time, said the gathering goes far beyond entertainment, with opportunities for participants to build connections and discuss trade among African countries and with international partners.

Held under the banner “One Festival | Four Days | One Africa,” the festival began on Thursday, August 6 and concludes Sunday, August 9, with activities running daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

The festival grounds have been transformed into a showcase of African culture, with gastronomy, a cultural market, beverages, music, dancing and family activities forming part of the daily experience.

Saturday featured one of the major highlights — a Cultural Parade — bringing colourful displays of African heritage to the festival. The entertainment programme also included Africanbongoman & Think Twice Band, along with DJ Gaga and Afrobeats artists.
Sunday’s closing programme is equally packed.

Activities begin with a church service at 11 a.m., followed by a children’s show at 1 p.m. Beatrice Natombi Band takes the stage at 3 p.m., followed by Julio Abong at 4 p.m. and Tropical Beats Band at 5 p.m.

The festival’s closing concert gets underway at 6 p.m. with MA BI, followed by Larry Fon at 7 p.m. and Tita Nzebi at 8 p.m. DJ Gaga and Afrobeats artists will then lead the final dancing session from 8:30 p.m. until the festival closes at 10 p.m.

Earlier in the four-day celebration, festivalgoers were entertained by performers including Pape Seck and Tita Nzebi & Band, while creative activities were also staged for children and families.

But amid the music, food, colourful clothing and celebration, Joseph said an important component of the gathering is the opportunity it creates for dialogue and networking.

The African extravaganza brings together culture and tourism while providing a forum where discussions can take place on strengthening trade, building partnerships and exploring economic opportunities involving African nations and other countries.

Antigua and Barbuda’s participation places the country within those conversations and provides an opportunity to build relationships with individuals and organizations from Africa and elsewhere.

For Joseph, returning for a third year also allows him to strengthen connections established during previous editions while continuing to raise Antigua and Barbuda’s profile among participants.

Now in its 26th edition, the Afrika Festival has developed into an annual celebration connecting culture with commerce, tourism and international cooperation.

Organizers have already confirmed the dates for next year’s festival, which will take place from August 5 to 8, 2027.