Afua Asantewaa Shines in Montreal as Ghana Prepares for Major 2026 Cultural and Film Festivals

Ghana’s entertainment industry continues to make significant strides on both the international and local stages, highlighted by Afua Asantewaa O. Aduonum’s recent performance in Canada and an ambitious lineup of upcoming festivals scheduled for 2026. From prestigious awards ceremonies in North America to major film screenings in Kumasi and community-centered celebrations in the Western and Volta regions, the Ghanaian creative sector is showcasing a robust blend of cultural heritage and contemporary artistry.

In Montreal, the second edition of the Glamorous Women Awards, organized by Brago Planners, recently celebrated female excellence under the theme “The Legalities of Relationships.” Afua Asantewaa O. Aduonum, serving as the Special Guest of Honour, captivated patrons with a musical performance that set a vibrant tone for the evening. Organizers Maame Brago, Delge Poaty, and Paris Nyamekye deemed the event a resounding success, noting that honourees were recognized for their diverse contributions across various professional fields, further cementing the importance of the diaspora in promoting Ghanaian talent abroad.

Looking ahead to the 2026 cultural season, local music and community pride are set to take center stage with two major events designed to empower regional artists. In Avenorpedo, the Agbeliza Festival will culminate on August 29 with the “Napado Is Our Home” musical extravaganza at the E.P. School Park. Reuben Dorkenu, Secretary of the Planning Committee, emphasized the event's focus on local talent and community values. Following this, on September 10, the Aboso Town Hall will host the Western Hustlers Concert, headlined by Highlife and Afrobeats artist JAH EYE. The concert aims to celebrate ambition in the Western Region, with JAH EYE delivering a message of perseverance through his performance.

The momentum will reach a peak in late 2026 with the 11th edition of the Black Star International Film Festival (BSIFF), scheduled to take place from September 24-27 in Kumasi. Exploring the theme “Film & Global Culture: The New Wave of African Cinema,” the festival has unveiled an official selection featuring films from 11 countries, including Ghana, Nigeria, Uganda, and the United States. BSIFF 2026 is poised to be a landmark event for the industry, offering a dedicated showcase for Kumawood films alongside modern explorations into AI-generated cinema and student documentaries, reflecting the rapidly evolving landscape of the African film industry.