Nigerian female talking drummer Kira Africa performs at CAREED 10th Anniversary event in Scotland

The University of the West of Scotland, Paisley, hosted the 10th Anniversary Celebration and Book Launch of the Centre for African Research on Enterprise and Economic Development (CAREED), bringing together academics, institutional representatives and members of the African community.

The event, organised by the University of the West of Scotland in collaboration with CAREED, formed part of activities marking the centre’s decade of promoting African research, enterprise and economic development.

Among the invited contributors was Nigerian talking drummer and cultural performer Esther Akintade, popularly known as Kira Africa, who is based in Edinburgh. She delivered a keynote cultural presentation and live talking drum performance during the programme.

Her presentation, titled “Beyond Borders: How African Culture and Creativity Fuel Trade and Development,” explored the role of African culture, creativity and identity in shaping conversations around trade, innovation and sustainable development. Through storytelling and traditional Yoruba talking drum rhythms, she highlighted the importance of preserving cultural heritage while showcasing its relevance in today’s global economy.

The session was attended by distinguished guests, including Professor Victor Olawale Adetimirin of Edo State University, who served as Special Guest of Honour; John Struthers, Chancellor of Mount Kenya University and Honorary Consul for Ethiopia in Scotland; Dr Adebisi Adewole, Director of CAREED; and Dr Festus Olatunji, Director of African Forum Scotland.

Akintade, who has performed professionally for more than five years, has established herself as one of the few female practitioners of the traditional Yoruba talking drum in Scotland. Her performances have featured at universities, cultural festivals, international events and community programmes, where she promotes African heritage through music, education and cultural exchange.

Reflecting on the occasion, Akintade described the invitation as particularly meaningful because it placed African cultural knowledge within an academic setting.

“As a Nigerian talking drummer in Scotland, this moment reminds me that our stories, traditions and talents have the power to connect people across borders,” she said.

She added that participating in the CAREED anniversary celebration marked another milestone in her journey as a Nigerian artist in Scotland and reflected the growing recognition of African cultural voices within academic, professional and community spaces.