ECOFEST DAKAR 2025: West Africa Unites Through Culture
A wave of cultural synergy is building across West Africa as preparations for the first-ever edition of the West African Festival of Arts and Culture (ECOFEST) gain momentum.
Set to hold from 30th November to 7th December 2025 (pending final confirmation), ECOFEST will transform Dakar into a vibrant stage of creativity, unity, and African pride.
In a landmark three-day strategic meeting held from 2nd to 4th July at the Museum of Black Civilisations and the Senegalese Ministry of Culture, key stakeholders from ECOWAS, UEMOA, and the Senegalese government laid the groundwork for what is expected to become a flagship regional cultural event.
With the theme “Political Changes and Crises in West Africa: What Can Culture Do?”, the festival aims to harness the power of culture as a tool for peace, social cohesion, and regional transformation.
Top officials, including Dr Emile Zida of ECOWAS, Mr Donikpo Koné of UEMOA, and Mr El Hadj Tanor Gning from Senegal’s Ministry of Culture, expressed strong commitment to delivering an event that showcases the richness of West African arts while addressing the region’s pressing realities.
Highlights of the festival will include an opening ceremony at the iconic Dakar Arena, a grand closing at the Grand Théâtre Doudou Ndiaye Coumba Rose, and a diverse programme featuring live performances, craft exhibitions, art competitions, film screenings, and youth dialogues.
Senegal’s Culture Minister reaffirmed the country’s dedication to hosting a world-class event, calling on all partners to maintain the momentum.
Meanwhile, ECOWAS Commissioner Prof Fatou Sow Sarr lauded Senegal’s leadership, noting that the festival marks a new era of cultural diplomacy for the region.
As ECOFEST 2025 draws near, West Africa is poised to celebrate not just its arts—but its shared identity, resilience, and hope for a more united future.
