The Hague African Festival Triumphantly Returns to Zuiderparktheater

July 28, 2024 – The Hague, Netherlands – Yesterday marked the triumphant return of The Hague African Festival, following a four-year hiatus. The festival took place at the renowned Zuiderparktheater in The Hague, captivating audiences with a vibrant and diverse program that celebrated the richness of African culture.

The main stage was a hub of extraordinary performances, featuring artists and performers from Ghana, Kenya, Senegal, and the Netherlands. Attendees were treated to an eclectic mix of musical performances, including dynamic drumming, soulful singing, and a thrilling fashion show that highlighted the event.

One of the standout moments was the fashion show hosted by Mary Tataw, a distinguished patron of the festival. Known for her acclaimed designs, Mary showcased her latest collection, delighting the audience with her creative and bold African-inspired fashion. Since the last edition of the festival, Mary has relocated her Concept Store to Amsterdam, where she continues to craft bespoke designs for her clients.

Adding to the excitement, Oke Sene made a much-anticipated return to the stage. With his dynamic drumming, dance, and boundless energy, Oke and his troupe once again energized and engaged the festival-goers, setting a lively tone for the event.

Wendy Kimani from Kenya had the crowd grooving and singing along to her captivating tunes, while Trigmatic from Ghana brought the live performances to a thrilling close with his high-energy set. As the evening progressed, DJ Austin took over with the Jollove Soundsystem, ensuring the festivities continued with an irresistible mix of beats that kept the crowd dancing well into the evening.

The festival also offered a delightful culinary experience, with food vendors serving a variety of delicious African dishes. Additionally, the kid’s corner provided a range of activities, from drum lessons to coloring corners, ensuring younger attendees were both entertained and included in the festivities.

The Hague African Festival has made a memorable comeback, celebrating African culture and creativity with flair and excitement. Under the new leadership of Augustina “MS.ABA” Austin, the festival continues to build on its legacy, fostering community and cultural exchange. The new team, comprising Frieda Verwer, Renato Saeroon, and Tracy Wilson, is committed to preserving the festival’s core values while infusing it with fresh perspectives and ideas.

This year’s festival was made possible by the generous support of the Zuiderparktheater, the Municipality of The Hague, Fonds 1818, CultuurSchakel, and Mercure.

For more information about future events and updates, please visit the official website of The Hague African Festival.