African women show why they are powerful celebrities, playing a crucial role in performance arts
From Angélique Kidjo, Sona Jobarteh and Germaine Acogny to Donna Ogunnaike and Thembi Mtshali-Jones: women are playing a fundamental role in driving Africa’s performing arts scene
Where a woman rules, streams run uphill, says an ancient Ethiopian proverb, meaning that women are among Africa’s key game-changers.
In terms of the continent’s performing arts scene, this couldn’t be truer. Take Angélique Kidjo. Born in Cotonou, Benin, the songstress was the first woman listed as one of “the 40 Most Powerful Celebrities In Africa” by Forbes Magazine. Kidjo – who will perform at the World Cultures Festival on November 3 – has won three Emmys and dozens of regional and global awards.
Besides her never-ending, award-winning musical repertoire, Kidjo – with her Batonga Foundation – is doing her bit to empower African women and girls, ensuring they can reach their full potential. Education is her main weapon.
Kidjo has inspired millions of African women, and an equally large number of men, too. “She is absolutely amazing. What a powerful woman, in so many ways,” says Muna Lakhani from South Africa, noting that he has been listening to Kidjo’s music for as long as he can remember. “Just her presence, walking onto a stage mid-afternoon at an outdoor noisy venue, made people stop, turn and look. I love that she makes no apology for who or what she is. She can get me sighing, dancing, celebrating and crying, all at the same time.”
Across the continent, countless female performing artists are making a name for themselves, regionally and internationally.
