The Abidjan Jazz Festival, held in Côte d'Ivoire's economic capital, is currently celebrating the African roots of jazz music. The event, which started on June 15, 2026, and runs until June 20, features performances by international and local artists, emphasizing the genre's deep connections to African musical traditions.
According to the festival's official program, this year's edition includes workshops on traditional African rhythms that influenced jazz, such as the blues and polyrhythms from West Africa. Organizers have stated that the festival aims to educate audiences about jazz's origins in the African diaspora.
Notable performers include American saxophonist Joshua Redman and Ivorian singer Dobet Gnahoré, who are scheduled to perform on June 19. The festival also includes free public concerts in the Plateau district and masterclasses for young musicians.
The event is supported by the Ivorian Ministry of Culture and Francophonie, which has promoted cultural tourism in Abidjan. Previous editions have drawn thousands of attendees, contributing to the city's reputation as a cultural hub in West Africa.
