The Real Need for an African Glocal Music Academy—Meeting the Financial Needs of Local Musicians Across the Continent
By Walter Wanyanya, a Board member of African Cultural Connections (ACA) and Founder & Artistic Director of the Jacaranda Music Festival, Jabulani Jazz Festival, & the Flame Lily Rock Music Festival in Harare, Zimbabwe.
Music in Africa has long been more than just an art form—it is a powerful tool for communication and storytelling, reflecting the continent’s rich and diverse history. Despite Africa’s global recognition in the music industry, many local musicians face financial struggles, preventing them from fully reaping the benefits of their talent.
Fragmented national music industries, lack of infrastructure, and limited financial support have left artists with little resources to sustain their careers. Establishing an African "Glocal" Music Academy, bridging global and loc...