Award-winning actor Idris Elba is set to host Africa Day concert 2021 which will be held on Africa Day, 25 May.
The inaugural Africa Day Benefit Concert At Home was held virtually last year to raise funds to assist families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic on the continent.
Africa Day concert 2021 details
This year, the Africa Day concert will again be virtual and will showcase Africa’s newest talents making their mark on the global stage.
It will stream on YouTube at 19:00 CAT/18:00 WAT and on MTV Base (DStv Channel 322) at 21:00 CAT/20:00 WAT.
Viewers will get to see African artistes performing on various stages across the continent – from Johannesburg to Lagos and more.
Commenting on his much-anticipated role as host, Elba said, “I’m committed to shining a light on African culture, heritage and the arts.
“During a year when globally we have all had to reflect deeply on our purpose, I’ve taken inspiration from the continent with its diversity of voices, creativity and innovation. Here’s to Africa’s Next Global Wave.”
Shining spotlight on artistes
Alex Okosi, YouTube’s Managing Director of Emerging Markets in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, added, “We are excited to work with Idris Elba and MTV Base to celebrate Africa Day this year through another powerful concert event.
“With African music continuing to connect and inspire people around the world, the timing is perfect to shine the spotlight on the next wave of African artistes that will make a global impact on music and culture.”
Speaking on behalf of MTV, Monde Twala, Senior Vice President and General Manager at ViacomCBS Networks Africa said, “MTV through music, culture and active citizenship unifies and strives to mobilise the youth to drive hope and positive change.
“We are proud to partner with YouTube and Idris Elba for the Africa Day Concert 2021. As ViacomCBS, we are committed to unleashing the potential of content.”
Elba, who is a British citizen of Sierra Leonian and Ghanaian descent, has won numerous awards as an actor, director and musician, including a Screen Actors Guild award for best supporting actor and a Golden Globe award for best actor.