The Festival des Musiques Urbaines d’Anoumabo (FEMUA) is an annual international music festival held in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. Launched by the Ivorian music group Magic System in 2008, the festival has become a platform for social awareness and reform. The 17th edition, held from April 15 to 20, 2025, focused on “Civics and Road Safety,” a pressing issue in Côte d’Ivoire.
The festival featured music performances, cultural exchanges, and panel discussions. A panel session titled “Who Is to Blame?” focused on youth involvement and road safety, with citizens voicing their concerns directly to the Minister of Transport. The discussions highlighted the need for government accountability and proper enforcement of laws to mitigate road accidents.
FEMUA has proven to be an effective platform for social reform, engaging the youth and promoting dialogue between citizens and government officials. The festival’s impact extends beyond music, showcasing the power of art to drive change and promote accountability.
The festival’s founder, A’salfo, emphasized the importance of social awareness and cultural exchange, with plans to expand FEMUA beyond Ivorian borders. By spotlighting pressing issues like road safety, FEMUA has demonstrated its potential to drive positive change in Africa.
