African creatives have been urged to take ownership of their work and creativity, emphasizing the importance of fair compensation, copyright protection, and equal opportunities within the continent’s creative industry.
This call to action was highlighted during a event organized by Arcadia TV Africa in celebration of Africa Day.
Arcadia TV Africa, a prominent media company, is dedicated to showcasing the continent’s rich cultural diversity and creativity. “By amplifying African voices, we aim to foster a sense of pride and unity among Africans, building a community and shared identity,” stated a spokesperson for the company.
Held in Lagos, the two-day Africa Day event was a testament to this commitment. The celebration featured engaging panel discussions, captivating performances, and valuable networking opportunities. Talented artists and industry experts gathered to reflect on Africa’s achievements and challenges while inspiring hope and progress.
One of the event’s highlights was a series of thought-provoking panel discussions moderated by Seyitan Atigarin. The first panel, “The Role of Foreign Aid in African Development: Dependency or Empowerment?” featured esteemed speakers such as Tosin Faniro-Dada and Ejike Egbuagu. This discussion delved into the complex impact of foreign aid on Africa’s economic growth.
“African capital is the only solution to Africa’s problems,” stressed Ejike Egbuagu, advocating for self-reliance over foreign aid. Tosin Faniro-Dada highlighted the importance of sustainability for African businesses seeking foreign aid, noting that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) generate 84% of jobs and a substantial portion of GDP. She emphasized the need for aid that helps SMEs scale up.
The second panel, “Exploitation in the African Creative Industry: Who Benefits from the Continent’s Successes?” brought together speakers such as Ugoma Ebilah, Juliet Ibrahim, Latasha Ngwube, Jude Idada, and Nicole Asinugo. They underscored the necessity for African creatives to take ownership of their work, emphasizing the importance of fair compensation, copyright protection, and equal opportunities in the creative industry.
The celebration concluded with a mesmerizing performance by Made Kuti, showcasing the resilience and vibrancy of African culture. His Afrobeat rhythms and dynamic dance moves enthralled the audience, serving as a powerful testament to Africa’s rich cultural heritage.
As Africa Day is commemorated, it reflects on the continent’s triumphs, challenges, and the unity that binds its people. The success of this event marks an important milestone in the ongoing journey to celebrate Africa’s cultural heritage. By honoring a shared identity and culture, Arcadia TV Africa aims to build a brighter future for all Africans. Africa Day 2024 was a tremendous success, and future celebrations are eagerly anticipated to continue honoring the continent’s legacy and inspiring future generations.
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