Idris Elba to host 2021 Africa Day Concert

Now in its second edition, the annual pan-African event is courtesy of YouTube Music and MTV Base. It was launched last year to celebrate Africa Day and raise funds to support families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The concert will feature African musicians from across the continent who will perform on multiple stages.

“I’m committed to shining a light on African culture, heritage and the arts,” Alba said. “During a year when globally we have all had to reflect deeply on our purpose, I’ve taken inspiration from the continent with its diversity of voices, creativity and innovation. Here’s to Africa’s Next Global Wave.”

The organisers say the concert will shine a light on African artists who are making their mark on the globe, redefining the narrative of a continent and the exchange of music, creativity and cultural ideas. It will also feature some of the most dynamic emerging artists from the diaspora who will be unveiled in the weeks leading up the Africa Day.

YouTube managing director of emerging markets in Europe, the Middle East and Africa Alex Okosi said: “We are excited to work with Idris Elba and MTV Base to celebrate Africa Day this year through another powerful concert event. With African music continuing to connect and inspire people around the world, the timing is perfect to shine the spotlight on the next wave of African artists that will make a global impact on music and culture.”

ViacomCBS Networks Africa senior vice-president and general manager Monde Twala said: “The past year has been an unprecedented one for all of us and it is a tremendous inspiration to see how our African artists and Africans on the continent and globally are lighting the way through creativity, collaboration and innovation. MTV through music, culture and active citizenship unifies and strives to mobilise the youth to drive hope and positive change. We are proud to partner with YouTube and Idris Elba for the Africa Day Concert 2021. As ViacomCBS we are committed to unleashing the potential of content.”

The event will be streamed globally on YouTube and broadcast on MTV Base (DStv Channel 322) at 7pm CAT and at 9pm CAT, respectively.