Production by Richmond Ekow Barnes for WB Group. Photography by Ernest Ankomah. Videography by Ronald Akwesi Bruce. Video Direction by Chris Baiden. Video Editing by Vision in View.
Africa is having her own (very long overdue) renaissance spanning the worlds of music, fashion and the arts, so it was no surprise that over 8,000 revelers assembled in Ghana last week to close out 2022 at the Afro Nation festival.
The continent’s biggest music festival returned after a three-year haitus since debuting in 2019. The vibe, of course, was everything Afrocentric. On December 29th, the festivities kickstarted with performances from a stellar lineup of both homegrown and international acts. With a diverse roster featuring everything from Afrobeats and Hip-Hop to Afropop and Amapiano dance music, there was something for everyone to enjoy.
Ghanaian songbird Gyakie opened the first night of the Afro Nation Festival with a thrilling performance that saw the crowds sing and dance along to their favorite songs. Tiwa Savage performed a mix of her classic hits and newer material, while Kamo Mphela had the crowd dancing to her signature blend of Amapiano music, energetic dance moves, stagecraft, and visual effects. American rapper Meek Mill, also took the stage, delivering a charged performance that had the crowd on its feet while P-Square, the popular Nigerian duo from the 90s, closed out the night with their electrifying throwback songs, complete with dazzling lights and pyrotechnics.
In between sets, attendees had the opportunity to explore the various indigenous delicacies and merchandise provided by a range of vendors. From spicy kelewele (soft-fried plantains) and jollof rice to artisanal crafts and festive gear, there was plenty to choose from.
Day two of the Afro Nation festival was just as packed with memorable moments. Fans were treated to an energetic set from Stonebwoy. Additionally, Kidi and Camidoh had the crowd in a frenzy with their smooth flow, catchy hooks and electric beats. Later in the evening, Ghana’s freshest music sensation Black Sheriff took the stage, delivering a high-energy performance that had the entire crowd on its feet as he sang hit songs like “Kweku The Traveler,” “First Sermon,” “Soldier,” and more.
Although the festival came to an abrupt end– without headliners like Skepta, Asake and Rema performing–the range of artists that took the stage was a beautiful testament to the uniqueness and beauty of African music and Black culture in general.
Check out some photos from the 2022 Afro Nation festival as captured by Accra-based photographer Ernest Ankomah.
