JAMAFEST closes in style

The week long East African Culture and Arts Festival (JAMAFEST) came to a glamorous closure on Saturday evening at Petit Stade, in Remera.The ceremony kicked off at 6:00pm (as scheduled) with performances by Shushu, Masamba, Samputu, Liza Kamikazi, Intore traditional dancers and other artists cross East Africa. They all gave thrilling performances at the fully packed indoor –stadium.Earlier in the day, art and craft pieces, cultural wear, literary works, foods and beverages from across East Africa were showcased.“The event went as planned and there was great teamwork from all participants. I was overwhelmed by the incredible turn up,” revealed Makuza Lauren, the head of the organising committee and Director of Culture at the National Ministry.The JAMAFEST, that is set to be hosted biennially by the East African Community, aims at fostering an East African cultural identity with unity in diversity and also promote the development of arts and creative industries.“This festival was a true blessing. I was able to meet people from all walks of life, plus, my business was boosted,” said Lucy Maina, a Kenyan art exhibitor at the event. The event mainly sponsored by MTN, ORINFOR and PRIMUS, also featured speeches from Honourable Jesca Eriyo, the EAC Deputy Secretary General in charge of Productive and Social Sectors and Honourable Protais Mitali, the Rwandan Culture Minister, before ending at 10:00pm.

Leisure

JAMAFEST closes in style