The 2025 Jankalanga Festival was an exciting and colorful musical event hosted by the Wazumbians band on March 22 at +233 Jazz Bar & Grill in Accra. Known for their unique style, the Wazumbians delivered high energy performances, blending contemporary African music with impressive musicianship. Band leader Wazumbi emphasizes collaboration, offering other musicians the chance to showcase their talents.
This year’s festival featured performances by the Abajo Traditional Music & Dance Ensemble, Abbey & The Rubber Band, the Armed Forces Music School Band, Grassroots Band, Bessa Simons & the Bessa Band, King Ayisoba, and Senegalese artist Fanta Cissokho, adding an international flavor.
The term Jankalanga was first coined by Wazumbi in 2018 for a live Facebook showcase, which grew in popularity during the COVID-19 era. In 2024, it became a full outdoor event. MUSIGA President Bessa Simons praised Wazumbi’s perseverance and urged other musicians to stay dedicated to their craft.
The Wazumbians’ performance featured songs like “Kwame Nkrumah,” blending traditional and contemporary African sounds. The Armed Forces Music School Band energized the crowd with popular African classics, while Fanta Cissokho, backed by the Grassroots Band, charmed the audience with her kora and guitar skills.
Wazumbi’s band has toured internationally, and their second set at Jankalanga highlighted their progressive African sound. The evening ended with King Ayisoba’s unique performance. Emcee Empress Lomo kept the event flowing smoothly, and Wazumbi thanked everyone, including Afromondo Music Management, ASK-TK Studios, MUSIGA, +233, and all the musicians who performed pro bono.