By: Zimasa Magudu

The Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC) arena area was packed with the continents finest musical talents, all in celebration of the 15^th African Renaissance Festival and Africa day concert this week.

The concert came after the two day conference held at the ICC and included African heads of state, business and government representatives.

All gathered to celebrate the unity of the African continent as well as to critically look at social, economic and political issues that need to be addressed.

‘Connecting Africa’ was this year’s theme and experts debated and examined connectivity of the African continent among which was the promotion of Tourism in Africa.

Lira as she serenaded the crowd with her soulful sounds picture by Samkelo Maseko

The concert hosted by Linda Sibiya with performances from the likes of Lira, Mafikizolo and Professor, gave nothing short of a world class performance.

First on the line-up was Umlazi born and multi-award winner Professor Langa, well known for his award winning song of the year hit Jezebel and a string of other kwaito hits.

Joining him on stage for collaboration was the energetic Busiswa who is partly responsible for DJ Zinhle.s ‘My name is’ and Professor’s ‘One night stand’ hit singles.

Winners of eight SAMAs, Mafikizolo, are arguably the most successful South African group which took the crowd on a trip down memory lane. They performed hits from their previous albums before performing the current hit ‘Khona’ from their latest album.

Theo Kgosinkwe and Nhlanhla Ncinza wowed the crowd with their dance moves and African inspired outfits proving their relevance even after having been in the business for more than 14 years.

Lira was the star of the night with her soulful, energetic and breathtaking performance of songs. The afro-pop sensation wowed the crowd with her amazing stage presence.

“I definitely got my money’s worth, and Lira was just awesome,” said Ayanda Majola who is a fan, after the concert.