Cotonou launches its anniversary SICA: 26 countries, 120 artists and a tribute to Boncana Maïga

Cotonou (Benin), November 5, 2026. The countdown is on: Festival SICA — Stars of African Cultural Integration — kicked off its 20th edition this Thursday morning with a press conference at the headquarters of the National Council of Artists' Organisations (CNOA), at the former Ciné Vog in Cotonou. The official opening will take place on Wednesday, November 11, at the same venue.

25 years of African cultural integration

Created in 2001 at the initiative of promoter Alli Wassi, SICA celebrates its silver jubilee this year. After five travelling editions — Guinea-Conakry in 2019, Burundi in 2022, Cameroon in 2023, Gabon in 2024, Equatorial Guinea in 2025 — the festival returns to its home city, Cotonou, under the theme “Heritage and Innovation”.

Four disciplines, one urban novelty

The competition brings together four disciplines: Afro-ethnic music, the live presenter, the music video and — new for this anniversary edition — urban music. Seven trophies will be awarded, and a special tribute will be paid to Boncana Maïga, a towering figure of Malian and African music.

Five Guineans in competition

Guinea fields five candidates: Foudis Diallo, Alseny Forèkolet, Antoine Flingo, One Time and Foniké Best. Public voting is open on the festival's official website. From November 9 to 15, Cotonou becomes the capital of African cultural integration.