Boosting Lagos GDP: Culturati Festival to Showcase 100 SMEs in Tourism

The Culturati Festival, Africa’s largest cultural fusion event, is determined to boost Lagos’ GDP by supporting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the tourism sector.

The 2024 edition will feature an exclusive trade fair for 100 SMEs, focusing on promoting Lagos’ cultural heritage.

This initiative is organised in partnership with Naijabrandchick and is part of a broader effort to leverage African culture for economic development.

The festival will run from December 5th to 7th this year, featuring art exhibitions, fashion shows, and more, aiming to create business growth pathways for participating enterprises.

They added that the trade fair will provide businesses with visibility, networking opportunities, and access to new customers.

This year’s festival, themed “Celebrate Diversity and Unity,” will be held from 5th to 7th December this year at Freedom Park, Lagos, and will host high-profile dignitaries and international attendees, further elevating its global appeal.

Speaking at a press conference yesterday in Lagos, the Chief Executive Officer of Culturati Africa, Adetola Bakinson, emphasised the festival’s significance, describing it as more than just an event.

She noted that it is an ongoing movement dedicated to promoting cultural diversity, fostering empowerment, and creating opportunities for economic and creative growth across the continent.

“This platform celebrates traditional art, craft, music, storytelling, entertainment, and fashion, ensuring these elements are not only preserved but passed on in engaging and innovative ways.

Supporting this event fosters pride in our African identity and sustains traditions for this generation and beyond,” she added.

According to Bakinson, the Culturati Festival is a dynamic celebration of African culture, heritage, and the rich mosaic of diversity in Lagos, a city that serves as both a melting pot of traditions and a global stage for Africa’s excellence.

“This is in collaboration with the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Culturati Africa presents the 18th edition of the festival, featuring impactful initiatives such as the Culturati Community Library, an advocacy platform for literacy and cultural education”.

Bakinson underscored the festival’s dedication to youth empowerment, stating, “Through the Culturati Academy, we have empowered over 10,000 youths with training in digital marketing, video production, and content creation.

This year, she continued, “We will continue to equip more young people with the skills they need to thrive in the creative and cultural industries.”

“In addition to its cultural and economic objectives, the event is also set to transform its venue, Freedom Park, into an even greater cultural landmark.

Originally a colonial-era prison turned into a thriving hub for arts and culture, the park holds deep historical significance as a symbol of freedom and resilience.

This year, the venue will be refurbished to enhance its appeal and attract more tourists, ensuring its place as one of Lagos’ finest cultural and tourist destinations.

“The aim is to boost Lagos’ economy through tourism while integrating cultural diversity into the state’s development agenda. By promoting the cultural sector and revitalising Freedom Park, we’re not just hosting a festival; we’re driving a movement for culture, empowerment, and growth,” Bakinson said.