AS Guyana prepares to commemorate 400 years since the arrival of Africans on its shores, the African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA) has officially launched its 32nd Annual Emancipation Festival with a stirring call for national reflection and unity.

Speaking at the launch event hosted at the Pegasus Hotel on Wednesday, Chief Eric Phillips—Chair of the Guyana Reparations Committee and ACDA executive member—urged Guyanese to look beyond political noise and focus on the enduring role of culture in building an inclusive and just society.

“This year’s Emancipation Festival, which acknowledges the 400th anniversary of Africans in Guyana, must not be overshadowed by the cacophony of electoral symbols and slogans and the carnival of hate and division,” Phillips said. “Let Emancipation 2025 be about healing. Let it be about recognising that as a nation, the house divided will always fall.”
This year’s festival is being celebrated under the theme “Highlighting the connection of all peoples through African culture as we strive to build a world where all our children are loved and protected.” The main event will take place on Friday, August 1st, at the National Park, with gates opening at 10:00 hours.

A diverse lineup of activities and performances is planned, promising a vibrant celebration of African culture and heritage. Among the headline acts are Grammy-winning reggae artist Maxi Priest, international gospel saxophonist Jesse D. Schultz, and dynamic cultural performances by Surinamese Maroon artists.

Over 50 local talents—including First Born, Charmaine Blackman, Young Bill Rogers, Kaiya Music, and I Lambi—will perform alongside poets, dancers, and live bands. The festival grounds will also feature traditional folk games, a Children’s Fun Centre, African cuisine, fashion showcases, and cultural exhibitions.
Signature competitions such as the Ansa McAl-sponsored Cook-Up Contest, Cassava Pone Eating, and the Best African Dressed challenge will return, alongside the popular Johnny “Overseas” Barnwell Games, which bring a full day of traditional sports and family fun.

Staying true to its tradition of education and cultural exchange, ACDA will highlight Burkina Faso as this year’s featured African nation, with an interactive booth showcasing its history, art, and cultural contributions. A special tribute will also be paid to the historic village of Buxton—one of the earliest African-Guyanese settlements and the birthplace of national icon Eusi Kwayana, who recently celebrated his 100th birthday.

Closing his address, Phillips called for greater corporate support for the festival and acknowledged the Gladstone family, descendants of a 19th-century British slave-owning dynasty, who recently issued a public apology and have now pledged their sponsorship of Emancipation 2025.

“So I say to you today, come to the park, enjoy Emancipation 2025, and I’d like to make a special acknowledgment to the Gladstones, whose ancestors enslaved us, and who this year have come on board to support Emancipation 2025,” Phillips stated.

The Emancipation Festival remains one of Guyana’s most significant cultural events, offering a moment not only to celebrate freedom and heritage but also to foster healing, unity, and collective pride as the nation continues its journey toward reconciliation and progress.