The second edition of the Born in Africa Festival BAFEST, an initiative of Access Bank aimed at celebrating African creativity, held on the 15th of December 2019, at Eko Atlantic City, Victoria Island Lagos. Following a successful maiden edition last year, this year’s edition was also a massive success. Themed “More For The Culture”, the 2019 BAFEST was a dynamic fusion of African art, film, fashion and music, attracting thousands of fun lovers from across Africa.
The day-long festival commenced in the morning with the fashion, art and film park, where various artists, fashion designers and filmmakers showcased their works. Short films, feature-length films and Accelerate Filmmaker project films were screened in the film section; films such as ‘Black Monday’ by Adetola Films, ‘Blast’ by Tosin Ibitoye, ‘Last’ by Olabisi Akinbinu, ‘Scars’ by Miriam Dera among others were featured. Eye-catching and fascinating artworks and clothing were also on display as artists and designers were on ground to engage guests.
The festival then got into high spirits with the fusion of music and fashion all on one stage. Fans were thrilled with captivating music performances from some of Africa’s biggest and finest acts including Niniola, Seyi Shey, Becca from Ghana, Patoranking, Teni, Joeboy, Flavour, 9ice, Mr Real, Naira Marley and Burna Boy. The stage was lit by runway models displaying the works of top-notch African designers such as Tokyo James, Emmy Kasbit, David Tlale and a host of other talented fashion designers.
A notable highlight of the festival was the electrifying opening dance performance coupled with a daring aerodynamic performance by the Drumstatic band, who were all suspended in the air. The ambience at the BAFEST 2019 was a lively one; guests had several options of refreshment as there was a food court packed with vendors dishing tasty meals and drinks.
Commenting on the event and its significance, Access Bank GMD Herbert Wigwe explained that “BAFEST is not just a means of providing quality entertainment to Africans, but a platform Access Bank has created to spotlight Africa through its enormous creativity and talents. We believe it is time the world knows the true story of Africa. I believe that this year’s BAFEST will further strengthen this new African narrative we are creating.”
Born in Africa Festival is a celebration of the unparalleled dynamism of the true African spirit. This highly entertaining fusion of music, art, film and fashion is designed uniquely to help shape a positive African story globally and better connect the world to the continent. The Born in Africa Festival was birthed by Access Bank from a need to tell the true story of Africa in all its glory.
Over the years, Access Bank an institution has persistently shown passionate support for African creativity and has successfully positioned itself as Africa’s gateway to the world, providing more than just banking services. The Bank has continued to promote the vibrant creative spirit that abounds Nigeria and Africa through its support for platforms such as Art X Lagos, AFFRIF, Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, Access The Stars among other initiatives.
