44th International Arts & Culture Festival brightens Bagamoyo
BAGAMOYO: Tanzania Art and culture enthusiasts are expected to enjoy a wide range of performances from today, October 28, to October 31, 2026, as the 44th International Festival of Arts and Culture, popularly known as the Bagamoyo Festival, takes place at the Tanzania Institute of Arts and Culture (TaSUBa) in Bagamoyo, Pwani Region.
The four-day festival is expected to bring together local and international artists for music performances, traditional dances, drama, acrobatics, comedy, poetry and other artistic activities aimed at promoting Tanzania’s rich artistic and cultural heritage.
Speaking about preparations for the festival, TaSUBa Acting Director Gabriel Kiiza said this year’s theme is “Arts and Culture for Climate Change.” The theme seeks to promote the use of arts and culture to educate communities about climate change and environmental conservation.
146 Artistic Groups Apply to Participate
According to Kiiza, a total of 146 artistic groups applied to participate in this year’s festival, including 104 groups from Tanzania and 42 from other countries.
The figures reflect growing interest among artistic groups in using the festival as a platform to showcase their talents, exchange experiences and establish partnerships with other players in the arts and culture sector.
However, the figures represent groups that applied to participate and do not necessarily mean that all 146 groups have been confirmed for the festival.
Music, traditional dance and drama take centre stage
Over the four days, festivalgoers are expected to enjoy a variety of performances, including traditional dances, contemporary and traditional music, drama, acrobatics, comedy and poetry.
The programme will also feature film screenings, workshops and training sessions designed to help artists acquire new creative skills, share knowledge and strengthen collaboration within the arts industry.
These activities are expected to make the festival a platform for entertainment, learning and the exchange of artistic and cultural experiences.
Opportunities for artists and entrepreneurs
Beyond entertainment, the festival is expected to provide opportunities for entrepreneurs to display and sell a variety of arts and cultural products, including baskets, beads, traditional clothing and other handicrafts.
The initiative is expected to help entrepreneurs promote their products and reach wider markets. Festival-related activities are also anticipated to benefit food vendors, hotels and transport service providers in Bagamoyo.
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Organisers expect the festival to attract thousands of visitors, potentially boosting local economic activity while further promoting Bagamoyo as a centre of historical heritage, arts and culture.
Bagamoyo Festival and Tanzania’s artistic heritage
The Bagamoyo Festival dates back to 1981, when it began as a platform for arts students to showcase their talents and skills. Over the years, it has grown into an international event bringing together artists and stakeholders from different parts of the world.
Through the festival, the arts continue to serve as a tool for education, employment, business development and the preservation of cultural heritage.
In line with this year’s theme, the 44th edition is also expected to highlight how arts and culture can be used to raise public awareness about environmental protection and address the challenges posed by climate change.
The festival is scheduled to conclude on October 31, 2026, following four days of artistic performances and cultural activities in Bagamoyo.
