Follow Us on Google
The City of Bradford in West Yorkshire, United Kingdom, was recently thrown into a frenzy of celebrations as Nigerians, along with other Africans, celebrated their rich cultural heritage, displaying their artistic prowess and local delicacies to the outside world.
The event, tagged ‘Bradford African Festival of Arts (BAFA) 2026’, drew the crème de la crème of society, with diplomats, the education community, political leaders, the business community and socialites treated to a fun-filled and memorable occasion.
The event, which displayed a vibrant celebration of African culture, creativity and community, featured stage plays, movie screenings, art exhibitions, music, dance, fashion, pageantry, an African open market square and different African foods.
A vibrant Nigerian woman and renowned academic who is the Project Manager of BAFA 2026, Dr Osemeike Gloria Eyieyien, said the event was organised to showcase African cultures and to change the narrative that Africa is lagging behind other continents in the world.
Dr Osemeike Gloria Eyieyien, who played a key role in coordinating the festival programme and bringing together its artistic, cultural and community activities, said this year’s event was more exciting and thrilling as Africans resident in different parts of the UK converged with friends to witness the event.
Other News
The festival attracted distinguished guests from across the UK and other countries, including Councillor Chris Herd, Lord Mayor of Bradford; Dr Ruby Bhatti, High Sheriff of West Yorkshire; His Excellency Lalisa Berhanu, Deputy Head of Mission, Ethiopian Embassy London; Abigail Marshall Katung, Lord Mayor of Leeds 2024–2025; Professor Uduak Archibong, Pro Vice-Chancellor EDI, University of Bradford; Professor Gillian Murray, Vice-Chancellor, University of Bradford; and Dr Manoj Joshi, among others.
The highlight of the festival was a dinner conversation with Abigail Marshall Katung and Professor Yvonne Moogan, exploring African communities in the UK, leadership, youth development and community impact.
Dr Eyieyien acknowledged Dr Olushola A. Kolawole, Lead Festival Director, and the wider team of artists, performers, exhibitors, vendors and volunteers for their contribution to the festival’s success.
Her project leadership and stakeholder management have been recognised with BAFA project leadership awards in both 2025 and 2026.
The 2026 festival showcased Bradford as a meeting point for African heritage, arts, enterprise, food, leadership and community, while creating a platform for cultural exchange and greater visibility for African creativity.
