FESPAM was created to celebrate and protect African musical heritage. It gives musicians from all over the continent a shared stage where they can perform for large, enthusiastic audiences and connect with each other. Over many editions of the festival, hundreds of musical styles from fifty-plus African countries have been showcased in Brazzaville.
During the festival, Brazzaville fills with sounds, colour and movement. Open-air stages are set up across the city, and concerts go on for days. Street food vendors sell all kinds of food alongside the music, and local craft markets display art, instruments and clothing from across the continent.
FESPAM also includes workshops where musicians teach each other their techniques, and discussions about how to preserve traditional music in a modern world. Children are especially welcome — there are activities and performances designed just for young audiences, making sure the next generation grows up connected to their musical heritage.