The festival takes its name from the famous novel 'Roots' by the American author Alex Haley, who traced his own family history back to a Gambian ancestor called Kunta Kinte from the village of Juffureh. His book, and the television series made from it, inspired millions of people of African descent to think about and research their family origins. The Gambian government created the festival to welcome people on that journey.
During the festival, Banjul fills with music. Kora players, djembe drummers, sabar dancers and choirs from across Africa and the diaspora perform together. There are cultural exhibitions showing traditional crafts, clothing and cuisine. Griots — the traditional storytellers and historians — perform long songs that trace family histories going back generations.
One of the most moving parts of the festival is when visitors travel upriver to Juffureh village and to the nearby Kunta Kinte island, which was once a trading post. Here, communities welcome visitors with ceremonies, dancing and shared meals, creating a sense of connection across many generations and many thousands of kilometres.
The Roots Festival shows how a small country can be at the centre of a very big story. Gambia is proud to be a place where people travel from all over the world to feel connected — to Africa, to history and to each other. The celebration is always full of hope and belonging.