The highly anticipated Africa Day Benefit Concert At Home finally went down on 25 May 2020. The MTV Base Africa sponsored concert, was put together to celebrate the World Africa Day which is celebrated annually, in commemoration of the foundation of the African Union (AU). The virtual concert that was hosted by popular actor Idris Elba, was broadcast on MTV Base DSTV Channel 322 and MTV Base YouTube Channel.
Africa Day Benefit Concert At Home was also organized to raise funds to be channeled towards helping vulnerable African communities that have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The organizers used this platform and select influential people to appeal to donors to contribute to this noble cause. Donors can make their contributions through World Food Programme (WFP) and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) by clicking here
The show had a super impressive artist line up that featured African musical giants from all corners of the continent, such as Sho Madjozi, M.anifest, Teni, C4 Pedro, Adekunle Gold, DJ Maphorisa, Kabsa De Small, Afro B, Niniola, Busiswa, Rema, Angelique Kidjo, Ndlovu Youth Choir, Bebe Cool, Salif Keita, AKA, Tiwa Savage, Stonebwoy, Nandy, Drizilik, Yemi Alade, Reekado Banks, Seun Kuti, Ismael Lo, Nasty C, Diamond Platinumz, Burna Boy and also our very own Sauti Sol who performed their latest single Insecure. A special segment was also in the programme to shed the spotlight on fast-rising African stars such as Awlyver and Shadow Boxer among others.
This concert was also used to spread messages of hope during this difficult time, and celebrate essential workers who are putting their lives on the line for the sake of others. They also applauded the African people for their tenacity and warm nature. There were also segments where iconic African leaders such as Kwame Nkurumah, Thabo Mbeki, Nelson Mandela and Jomo Kenyatta were celebrated for their contribution to African unity.
Viewers were also treated to special celebrity appearances from stars such as Kirk Franklin, Jidena, Zozibini Tunzi, H.E. Paul Kagame, Halle & Chloe, Trevor Noah, Marques Houston, Mark Angel, Yvonne Orji, Omari Hardwick, Lady Smith Black Mambazo, Anthony Hamilton, Fat Joe, Winston Duke, Boris Kodjoe and Rita Ora among others.
The African music extravaganza that began at 7 pm EAT came to halt at 9:30 pm EAT with vote of thanks from the host Idris Elba.
Images courtesy
