Wendy Harawa talks collabo at Bridge Afric launch

Wendy said this in Nigeria where she attended the launch of Bridge Afric alongside fellow musician Lulu, who was also engaged for the launch. The gospel musician, who has in recent times worked with a number of African artists, said Jacob Events will partner bridge Afric to have a workshop in Malawi for creatives to be attended by the who and who’ s in the industry of…

Musician Wendy Harawa has underscored the power of collaborations between African countries as one way of developing the different platforms including the creative sector.

Wendy said this in Nigeria where she attended the launch of Bridge Afric alongside fellow musician Lulu, who was also engaged for the launch.

The gospel musician, who has in recent times worked with a number of African artists, said Jacob Events will partner bridge Afric to have a workshop in Malawi for creatives to be attended by the who and who’s in the industry of afro beats from different countries to give insights and at the same time, get to hear challenges of artists and map the way forward.

“Talks are in the pipeline with Victoria Okong, the President of Bridge Afric on how we can help budding artists in accessing capital which is a challenge and Bridge Afric specialises in that,” the ‘Ambuye Ndiwonetseni’ maker said.

Wendy said the workshop is scheduled to take place on March 23 2024 and Okong confirmed of the date.

During the event, Wendy said she had a chance to interact with big names in the industry including founder and President of Afrima Michael Dada, who shared insights on how Nigerian music has made it out there.

“We intend to have him share that knowledge and more to Malawi music industry,” she said.

She said through the workshop, they also want Malawians to understand that Bridge Afric is an opportunity for talent to get promoted.

“The concept is to enhance collaborations between artists and creatives around Africa, co-touring, help artists penetrate new markets beyond their country of origin, getting organisations to sponsor talent development, getting Francophone artists and creatives from less developed countries to penetrate the Anglophone regions and vice versa,” Wendy said.

Nkong said that Bridge Afric’s primary objective is to promote and showcase African artists, providing them with platforms to reach a global audience beyond their home countries.

“This initiative encompasses developing talents in the Francophone world, ensuring visibility in Anglophone regions and fostering collaborations through showcases and tours across the continent,” she said.

Lulu, who starred at the launch where she shared the stage with other acts, described it as an experience to perform to new people.

“The event in Nigeria was a great opportunity to showcase and learn how being original is important. The main key is to play your music not what everyone is playing, that is the medicine and I strongly think this is the reason they invited me,” the singer and guitarist, said.

The Bridge Afric launch is also set to be held in Paris, France on January 31 2024.