Accra International Book Fest to host Wiyaala

The discussion will be held at the Shiashie Arts Village at 2pm CAT and will also be livestreamed here. It will be centered around Wiyaala’s childhood, writing and musical journey. #CatchUpAfrica forms part of AIBF’s African Legend Encounter series.

“Wiyaala has a lot to offer the world not only through her music but the stories behind her songs that continue to receive rave reviews from across the world,” Accra International Book Festival programme officer Charity Oteng Darkwa said. “We couldn’t think of a better celebrity to host at a time when COVID-19 is ravaging across the world than Noella Wiyaala.” 

The #CatchUpAfrica discussions seek to provide a convergence point for local and international creatives to engage in conversations pertaining to Ghana’s arts scene, as well as those of global interest. With a key focus on the promotion of literature, the festival has hosted artists, authors, critics and book lovers since it began. 

Wiyaala launched her solo career in 2013 followed by the release of her eponymous album Wiyaala in 2014. She has now firmly established herself as one of Ghana’s talented female artists with hit songs such as 'Rock My Body', 'Make Me Dance', 'Tinambanyi' and 'Africa'. She has won various awards including the Woman of the Decade gong at the 2020 Women’s Choice Awards Africa.

In other news, fellow musician and activist Wanlov the Kubolor will speak at the 2020 Pa Gya! Literary Festival, which will take place at the Goethe-Institut in Accra. Kubolor, together with visual artist Ibrahim Mahama, will discuss the limits of contemporary art.