The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Food and Cultural Festival is set to reel in no fewer than 10,000 participants with different perspectives, experiences, and knowledge to promote cultural diversity.

Its Country Representative and Director-General, Amb. Felix Ihonre, who said this on Monday at a news conference in Abuja, stated that the festival would enhance learning opportunities and increase creativity and innovation.

Newsmen report that the 2024 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival (EFCF) will be held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom and Calabar, Cross River from Oct. 6 to 11. Ihonre said that the upcoming festival would expose participants to different cultures and create avenues for them to learn about different customs, traditions, languages, and perspectives as well as promote a broader understanding of the world.

According to him, the ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival will bring together individuals with different perspectives, experiences, and knowledge, which can lead to the generation of new ideas and innovative solutions. The director-general added that the festival would enhance economic growth by attracting a diverse range of talents, skills, and perspectives, which could lead to increased productivity and competitiveness.

“It is important to know that cultural diversity refers to the existence of a variety of cultural or ethnic groups within a society, organisation, or community.

“It encompasses the differences in language, traditions, customs, beliefs, values, and behaviours that exist among people from different cultural backgrounds.

“Cultural diversity recognises and respects the unique perspectives and contributions of individuals from various cultures, promoting inclusivity, tolerance, and understanding.

“It is an important aspect of society as it enriches social interactions, fosters creativity and innovation, and promotes a more inclusive and equitable society,’’ D-G said.

He added that the festival will bring together about 10,000 participants comprising cultural custodians who are traditional rulers, business Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), stakeholders in tourism and culture, professional farmers and agricultural experts.

According to him, others are cultural entertainment/ musical troupes, exhibitors, academia, investors/ investment, and development experts in agriculture, trade, industry, technology, and education, including youth, women, and graduate students from around the World.

“This festival will feature Business CEOs, Presidents / Heads of States / Government Summit on Food Security in Africa, Cultural Entertainment, a Boat Register, a Carnival Float and a Food Fair.

“Others are Miss ECOWAS Beauty pageant, Musical Concert and Awards and Unveiling of Countries/ States Royal Cuisines,” D-G said.