Monday, August 12, 2024 From August 25th to September 1st, 2024, Kisumu, Kenya, will host FESTAC 2024, the world’s largest festival dedicated to Black African Art, Culture, Trade, and Family. This grand event will be a vibrant celebration of African heritage, bringing together cultures, traditions, and communities from across the globe. Among the distinguished attendees is Anthony “Amp” Elmore Sr.
, a five-time World Karate/Kickboxing champion and filmmaker from Memphis, Tennessee. Elmore’s mission at FESTAC is clear: to bridge African and African American heritage, fostering unity, cultural pride, and a shared vision for the future. FESTAC, also known as the Festival of Black and African Arts and Culture, has a rich history that dates back to its inception in Dakar, Senegal, in 1966.
Over the years, FESTAC has grown into a global cultural phenomenon, celebrating Africa’s heritage, creativity, and identity. The 2024 festival in Kisumu marks a significant milestone as it will be the 5th World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture, themed “Sustainable Growth Trajectory for Africa through Culture, Trade, Travel, and Tourism.” This theme highlights the festival’s focus on educating, empowering, and embracing African culture through various platforms, including health, education, sports, leadership, entrepreneurship, trade, fashion, art, music, and dance.
Elmore’s journey to FESTAC began when Professor Anyang’ Nyong’o, the Governor of Kisumu, personal.