The Empire group, leader in events in Benin and in the sub-region, is proud to announce the holding of the second edition of the Benin International Arts Festival (FInAB), which takes place at the Palais des Congrès in Cotonou from April 23 to 28, 2024.
After the first edition which attracted more than 100,000 visitors and brought together over 200 exhibitors, the festival returns with a reinforced ambition to celebrate the richness of African creativity.
This year’s event will be under the theme: “Identity and multiculturalism: Impacts on the creative cultural industries in Africa”.
Building on an exceptional record during its first edition, this new version promises an enriching cultural experience, without a carnival but with exclusive masterclasses in music and cinema, as well as two new fashion shows.
The 2024 edition will offer a privileged space for exchanges between artists, cultural actors and the public.
The festival aims to exceed the number of visitors from the previous year, thanks to the presence of more than 100 African artists and an exceptional program.
On the cultural menu are live performances and the celebration of culinary and visual arts through the Tokp’art market.
The FInAB will pay tribute to significant figures of Beninese art and culture, including Gratien Zossou, Nel Oliver, Lolo Andoche, Koffi Koko, and Kiri Kanta.
Guest artists include Toofan, Bobo wè, Suspect 95, Ayodélé and Meiway, reflecting the diversity of African talent.
This year, FInAB is expanding its range of activities, including a radio platform and an increased presence of voice media such as podcasts to support exchanges and the dissemination of knowledge.
Ulrich Adjovi, CEO of the Empire Group speaks of his enthusiasm: “This new edition of FInAB emphasises the exploration of synergies between tradition and modernity, the emergence of new artistic voices and the promotion of intercultural dialogues. We have calibrated the program to provide an enriching space for dialogue for artists, cultural actors and the public. FInAB emerged as a response to Benin’s desire to position itself as a hub of art and culture in Africa, while boosting the local economy and strengthening its tourism industry.”
With this in mind, the FInAB is fully part of the national cultural strategy promoted by the government and supported by the vision of Beninese President Patrice Talon.
He sees in the promotion of arts and culture an essential lever for the economic development and influence of Benin on the international scene and has made vast investments since 2016.
CP/te/as/APA