Advanced Television

ViacomCBS, YouTube host Africa Day benefit concert

May 21, 2020

To celebrate Africa Day on May 25th, ViacomCBS Networks Africa and YouTube, in partnership with Idris Elba, are hosting an Africa Day Benefit Concert At Home to raise funds to help children and families in Africa that are affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, with the World Food Programme and UNICEF who are supporting COVID-affected communities across Africa.

Streaming on the MTV Base Africa YouTube channel and broadcasting across the network’s channels in Africa, the humanitarian concert is gaining support for this important cause from some of the biggest names on the African continent and beyond. The special will feature special messages from comedian Trevor Noah, reigning Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi, renowned American actor Omari Hardwick, American rapper and actor Ludacris, multiple award winning artist Sean Paul, R&B singer Anthony Hamilton, UN Goodwill ambassador and actress Nomzamo Mbatha,  multi-talented rapper and actor, Fat Joe and leading actor Winston Duke joining the lineup of presenters.

The show will bring together a powerful lineup of performances from some of the most talented artists in Africa with the addition of Afrobeats superstars Davido (Nigeria), Burna Boy (Nigeria), Bebe Cool (Uganda), Busiswa (South Africa), Adekunle Gold (Nigeria), C4 Pedro (Angola), Reekado Banks (Nigeria), M.anifest (Ghana), Niniola (Nigeria), Salif Keita (Mali), DJ Maphorisa & KABZA De Small (South Africa) and Toofan (Togo). These artists join a confirmed lineup including Angelique Kidjo, AKA, Diamond Platnumz, Fally Ipupa, Nasty C, Sauti Sol, Sho Madjozi, StoneBwoy, Teni, Tiwa Savage and Yemi Alade.

Elba said: “Taking a moment to shine a light on African arts to benefit the African homeland and its people. A continent of this size should find a way to dig deep and stand up for one another at a time like this. It’s important for the future and history will not forget.”

Monde Twala, Senior Vice President and General Manager for ViacomCBS Networks. commented: “We are proud to have formidable partners and talent on board as we tackle this unprecedented humanitarian crisis. ViacomCBS Networks Africa is proud to work alongside YouTube to support the World Food Programme and UNICEF in their efforts.”

Alex Okosi, Managing Director of Emerging Markets in Europe, the Middle East and Africa at YouTube, said: “African Music is powerful in its ability to uplift and connect the world. YouTube is proud to be a platform for the amazing talent that have come to celebrate Africa Day and play a role in helping to raise funds for those affected by Covid-19 on the continent.”

The benefit concert will be made available after Africa Day to continue encouragement for organisations and individuals to contribute towards fundraising through the World Food Programme and UNICEF campaign website.

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