Deaf Arts Festival 4.0 empowers African Deaf and disabled artists with mentorship, workshops, and exhibitions, promoting inclusion and cultural visibility
Nigerians have been urged to show stronger support for persons living with disabilities, particularly the Deaf community, ahead of the forthcoming Deaf Arts Festival 4.0.
Disability inclusion advocate, Dr. Marian Akran, made the appeal during a press briefing in Lagos, noting that while the Deaf community is among Africa’s most vibrant cultural groups, it remains largely excluded from mainstream artistic platforms.
“We want Deaf talents to be placed at the centre, not at the margins. Inclusion must be lived, not proclaimed,” Dr. Akran said. “Real inclusion creates opportunities, enabling Deaf youths to access mentorship, networking, and partnerships across the continent.”
The festival, organised by Seams Deaf Pro Foundation, is designed to address barriers faced by Deaf and disabled youths in the creative sector.
Executive Director Samuel Femi James said many talented young artists struggle due to limited access and opportunities, not lack of ability.
“The festival exists to empower Deaf creatives to build careers, gain visibility, and contribute meaningfully to Africa’s creative economy,” James explained.
Deaf Arts Festival 4.0 will take place from December 1–6, 2025, beginning at the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo, and culminating at the Wole Soyinka Arts Theatre, University of Ibadan. The event includes:
Intensive workshops on visual and traditional arts, digital arts, professional dance, drama, creative leadership, stagecraft, and production featuring artists from Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, and other countries.
Exhibitions, film screenings, cultural showcases, and stakeholder discussions on inclusion, accessibility, and policy reform.
A week-long residential camp for 100 Deaf and disabled youths, focused on mentorship and empowerment.
Dr. Akran also called on corporate organisations to provide employment opportunities for persons living with disabilities, emphasising that government support alone is insufficient. She highlighted that seeing Deaf performers on stage inspires a sense of belonging and possibility among young audiences.
Organisers, including Ade Oyeyipo and Banji Omotesho, stressed the importance of creating enabling environments for disabled artists. Deaf performers present expressed their excitement for the festival and urged the public to provide support.
James appealed to both individuals and corporate entities to contribute, noting that each donation directly impacts the future of Deaf youths.
With workshops, exhibitions, and mentorship opportunities, Deaf Arts Festival 4.0 promises to be the most transformative edition yet, placing Deaf and disabled creatives at the heart of Africa’s cultural landscape.
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