Globacom underscores the importance of cultural preservation and technological innovation during the 2024 Ofala Festival, strengthening community ties.

At the 2024 Ofala Festival in Onitsha, Anambra State, Globacom, a leading technology company in Nigeria, reiterated its longstanding commitment to promoting cultural festivals, particularly the Ofala of Onitsha.

During the event, held at Ime Obi on Saturday, the company’s Divisional Head, South, Mr Tochukwu Okechukwu, emphasised the pivotal role of culture in fostering national unity and development.

Also read: Glo has helped project Ofala as tourist destination, says Obi of Onitsha

Okechukwu acknowledged that Globacom recognised the deep connection between culture and economic growth, explaining how cultural industries—festivals, arts, and tourism—can drive job creation, generate revenue, and boost local economies.

“Globacom appreciates the ability of culture to foster national identity and bring people together around shared values, traditions, and history,” he said, reinforcing the company’s commitment to cultural sponsorship.

Cultural industries as drivers of economic growth

According to Okechukwu, Globacom’s involvement in festivals like Ofala is driven by the belief that culture plays a crucial role in enhancing creativity and innovation.

He explained that cultural festivals not only preserve traditions but also provide significant opportunities for economic growth.

“Festivals can promote local products, generate revenue, and boost tourism. They serve as platforms for showcasing arts and crafts, which in turn contribute to the national economy,” he noted.

He further highlighted that cultural knowledge fosters critical thinking and problem-solving, while vibrant cultural traditions strengthen a nation’s global influence through soft power, diplomacy, trade, and cultural exchange.

Technology and culture: A harmonious blend

Okechukwu stressed that Globacom’s mission goes beyond merely connecting people through affordable telecom services. He explained that the company envisions a future where technological innovation supports and enhances traditional cultural practices.

“Our goal is to create an environment where technology and cultural heritage coexist harmoniously, enriching the lives of all.

We see connectivity as a tool to strengthen community bonds, bridge generations, and foster collaboration,” he remarked.

He also acknowledged the rapid pace of technological evolution, stating that Globacom remains committed to leveraging its advancements for the benefit of society.

“We believe innovation and tradition should not be at odds. Instead, they can work together to build a stronger, more connected community,” Okechukwu added.

Ofala Festival’s rising profile

The Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, also expressed his gratitude to Globacom for its ongoing support over the years.

He noted that the company’s sponsorship had helped elevate the festival’s profile and contributed to its recognition on a national scale.

Igwe Achebe also shared his vision of having Ofala Festival recognised by UNESCO as part of the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Efforts are already underway to secure this listing, with support from the Ministry of Art, Culture, and Creative Economy.

The 2024 Ofala Festival marked the 23rd celebration since the coronation of Igwe Achebe. The event began on Friday with Iru Ofala and concluded on Saturday with Azu Ofala.

The highlight of the festival was the traditional appearance of the Obi, who emerged from his annual seclusion to perform a majestic dance around the Ime Obi in his full regalia.

His palace chiefs followed with a ceremonial dance, paying homage to the traditional ruler, as age groups like Ifedioranma, Ugoamaka, and Oganiru Onicha also participated in the festivities.

Royal Banquet to cap the festivities

Globacom’s commitment to the 2024 Ofala Festival will culminate in a Royal Banquet on Wednesday, 23 October, in honour of the Obi of Onitsha.

This final event serves as a gesture of appreciation and further strengthens the bond between Globacom and the Onitsha community, as both continue to celebrate and preserve Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.

Grace Mumo discusses her journey organising FESTAC Africa 2024 in Kenya, uniting the continent through culture, tourism, and inclusion.

Grace Mumo, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Inspire Africa Connect and CEO of FESTAC Africa Renaissance, has taken a pivotal role in resuscitating the Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC) after its 45-year dormancy.

In a recent interview with TOFARATI IGE, Mumo shared her experience organising the 2024 edition of FESTAC in Kenya and the festival’s broader impact on African unity, culture, and tourism.

Also read: Kenya to host FESTAC Africa Festival

The revival of FESTAC

When asked about her connection to FESTAC, Mumo credited Yinka Abioye, Chairman of FESTAC, for introducing her to the festival’s legacy.

“Our chairman is from Nigeria, and FESTAC has always been close to him,” Mumo said. Recognising its historical significance, her team engaged with the African Union to breathe new life into the event.

“We feel privileged to have been entrusted with its revival,” she added, noting that this year’s edition was more inclusive than the previous two held in 1966 and 1977.

Unlike the earlier editions, FESTAC 2024 broadens its scope by incorporating key groups that were previously overlooked.

“We focus on three areas: the youth, women, and people with disabilities,” Mumo explained. This approach highlights the festival’s evolution from being solely a cultural showcase to a more holistic platform for African empowerment.

The challenges and triumphs of organising FESTAC

Organising an event of this magnitude is no small feat. Mumo stressed that passion plays a crucial role in overcoming the inevitable challenges.

“When it’s something you are passionate about, fatigue doesn’t factor in,” she remarked, reflecting on her experience managing such an intensive project.

For her, building a dedicated, highly focused events team is essential to ensuring the success of each edition.

“Each year comes with different lessons, but the key is to have passionate people around you. FESTAC is not just about the seven-day festival; it’s about leaving a lasting legacy.”

FESTAC 2024: A personal triumph for Kenya

FESTAC 2024 held special significance for Mumo, as it took place in her home country of Kenya, specifically in Kisumu, a city recognised as a cultural hub.

“I fought to bring the festival to Kenya,” she said, emphasising her deep connection to the event’s location. “It was personal for me, even though it wasn’t in my hometown. Kisumu, being the epicentre of arts and culture in Kenya, was the perfect venue.”

Despite her Kenyan roots, Mumo sees herself more as a Pan-Africanist. “I’ve worked in West Africa more than I have in Kenya,” she noted, adding that her exposure to 33 different African countries has shaped her vision for FESTAC.

moting intra-Africa tourism and trade through FESTAC

Mumo believes that FESTAC Africa plays a crucial role in fostering intra-Africa tourism and trade, two areas often hindered by logistical barriers.

“One of the main goals of FESTAC is to encourage Africans to explore their own continent,” she explained. However, high airfare costs and visa requirements between African countries remain significant obstacles.

“Travelling within Africa can be more expensive than flying to Europe, which is absurd,” Mumo said, urging governments to make intra-Africa travel more accessible.

FESTAC, with its emphasis on cultural integration, offers a platform for businesses and tourists to connect. “We had global cultural trade platforms where companies showcased their goods and services,” Mumo highlighted.

“By bringing the festival to different African cities, not just the capitals, we can unlock the continent’s potential.”

Government support for FESTAC

While FESTAC has the potential to boost tourism and stimulate economic growth, Mumo expressed disappointment at the lack of substantial government support.

“A festival like this should be fully supported by governments. Unfortunately, we often find ourselves swimming alone,” she remarked.

For FESTAC to be sustainable, Mumo called on African governments to commit resources and recognise the festival’s potential to drive tourism and trade.

“FESTAC is a game changer for any country. It can drive economic growth and tourism within just seven days,” she said. Mumo urged governments to embrace the festival fully, ensuring that it has the financial backing to thrive.

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde aims to promote the Igbo-Ora Festival of Twins to gain World Heritage Site status, boosting local tourism.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has expressed optimism about promoting the Igbo-Ora Festival of Twins and Multiple Births as part of his administration’s strategy to enhance the state’s economy through tourism.

Speaking at the annual World Twins Festival, themed ‘Twinning for Love, Unity and National Economic Reorientation’, held at the Methodist Grammar School in Igbo-Ora, Makinde highlighted the festival’s significance to both Ibarapaland and Oyo State.

Represented by his Deputy, Bayo Lawal, the governor pledged his administration’s continued support for the festival, recognising its unique appeal and importance.

He stated, “What we are doing today is something that is worth celebrating. You can see that we have a lot of people who came here from far and wide for this event.”

His commitment includes improving facilities and creating an enabling environment to attract more investors and enhance tourism in the state.

The Olu of Igbo Ora, Oba Jimoh Titiloye, commended Governor Makinde for promoting the festival as a cultural platform and an opportunity for economic expansion. He emphasised the need for collaboration and support to elevate the festival’s profile.

Wasiu Olatunbosun, Oyo State’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, highlighted the festival’s uniqueness, noting its inclusive nature that welcomes twins from all geopolitical zones in the state.

He announced ambitions to enter the Guinness Book of World Records and secure UNESCO recognition as an intangible cultural heritage.

Olatunbosun urged the residents of Ibarapaland to embrace the festival and extend their hospitality to visitors from across Nigeria.

The festival’s initiators, Ambassador Taiwo and Kehinde Oguntoye, expressed gratitude to Governor Makinde for his passion for creative cultural ventures and tourism.

They provided empirical evidence supporting Oyo State’s claim as the World Centre of Multiple Births, citing Oyo Town, Oko Town—where the first triplets were born—and Igbo-Ora, known as the Land of Twins.

The Moshood twin brothers shared their unique experience at the festival, stating, “We feel blessed to be born together and this is our first time visiting Igbo-Ora for the festival.

We will never miss any edition.” Similarly, Taiwo and Kehinde Oladapo, twin sisters from Igbo-Ora, praised the organisers for hosting such an inclusive celebration.

The festival featured several highlights, including the unveiling of a twins statue at the Igbotikale Roundabout, a Twins Parade, a talent show, and various appellations celebrating twins.

The event brought together twins from various states, further enriching Oyo State’s cultural landscape and enhancing its appeal as a tourism destination.