By Alvin Lansana Kargbo
The stage is set for Ecofest 2024: The Illumination Edition following its official media launch on November 21, 2024, at the AYV Media Empire on Tower Hill in Freetown. Hosted by the festival founder and promoter, Abu Bakarr Turay, widely known as Kabaka, the launch unveiled details of the highly anticipated event, scheduled for December 20-21, 2024, at the Africell Beach Front, Lumley.
This year’s theme: “The Illumination Edition,” aims to spotlight Sierra Leone’s artistic potential while promoting cross-cultural collaboration. The festival boasts a stellar lineup of local and international talent, headlined by Nigerian music sensation Chike. Other notable performers include Sierra Leonean stars like Drizilik, Incredible JJ, Bakitenno, Yemata, Kindo Armani and Jelly Bee among others, as well as Ghana’s Gyakie, Guinea’s Tenni Diawara, The Gambia’s S.T and entertainers from Togo, Ivory Coast, South Africa and Nigeria, including Brain Jotter, Sabinus, Senzaa, Jeff Bogolobango and the Ogechi Boys.
Kabaka emphasized the festival’s broader mission of fostering exposure for Sierra Leonean artists through collaborations with international acts. “We are intentionally inviting international stars to create opportunities for our artists to connect and grow on a global scale,” he said.
Miss Ecofest 2024 will be a highlight of this year’s festival, showcasing 12 contestants competing for a grand prize of a fully paid trip to Dubai and NLe 50,000 in cash. Second and third-place winners will take home NLe 25,000 and NLe 10,000, respectively. The pageant is aimed at integrating cultural celebration into the festival and highlighting the beauty and talent within Sierra Leone and beyond.
Kabaka underscored the festival’s mission to unify and uplift Sierra Leone through culture and entertainment. “This festival is not just about entertainment; it’s about changing the narrative about Sierra Leone by showcasing our potential. It’s a platform for African unity, bringing together artists from across the continent,” he said.
He also called for increased local support, stressing its importance for the growth of the nation’s creative industries. “While audiences abroad pay to support their artists, local support here can sometimes be lacking. This festival belongs to all of us and it’s up to Sierra Leoneans to invest in our own talent,” he urged.
Tickets for Ecofest 2024 are available at NLe 200 for regular entry, NLe 500 for access to the stage area and NLe 2,500 for VIP seating. Early bird discounts are available for tickets purchased via Afrimoney or UBA Visa cards.
With its ambitious agenda and diverse lineup, Ecofest 2024: The Illumination Edition promises to be a cultural extravaganza, blending entertainment with empowerment. As the countdown begins, the festival is poised to illuminate Sierra Leone’s cultural landscape and elevate its position on the African stage.
