At this year’s Addis Jazz Festival, industry leaders from across Eastern and Southern Africa came together for an insightful exchange of ideas aimed at reshaping the future of music festivals on the continent.
Held as part of the side event Addis Jazz Talk, organizers participated in a dynamic roundtable discussion titled “Building African Festival Circuit Collaboration for Sustainability.” The conversation centered on pressing issues faced by African festivals, as well as strategies for creating a thriving and sustainable music ecosystem.
Key takeaways from the discussion included:
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The need for stronger government support to recognize festivals as cultural and economic assets.
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A call to reduce dependence on corporate sponsorships, which often come with limitations or short-term goals.
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The importance of creating a Pan-African network to share resources, connect organizers, and foster cross-border collaborations.
Participants emphasized that festivals are more than just stages for talent—they are platforms for national promotion, cultural exchange, and economic development. By supporting local artists and embracing collaborative efforts, festival organizers can drive meaningful change and sustainability in the African music scene.
The Addis Jazz Festival continues to grow not just as a cultural highlight, but as a catalyst for industry dialogue and regional unity.
