The Beninese music icon delivered a powerful message of unity and African pride during her triumphant return to Tunisia after four years
In a night that will be remembered as one of the highlights of the 60th edition of the Festival International de Carthage, Beninese superstar Angélique Kidjo delivered a spellbinding performance that transformed the ancient amphitheater into a pulsating celebration of African music and global unity.
The five-time Grammy Award winner took the stage before a captivated audience, showcasing the extraordinary versatility that has established her as one of Africa’s most formidable musical exports. Over the course of an emotionally charged evening, Kidjo masterfully wove together African rhythms with jazz, funk, soul, Latin beats, and world music influences—a sonic tapestry that reflects her four-decade-long career and 18 critically acclaimed albums.
A Triumphant Tunisian Homecoming
Tuesday night’s concert marked Kidjo’s first performance in Tunisia since her appearance at the Francophonie Summit in Djerba in 2022. Making her entrance with her trademark radiant smile, infectious energy, and vibrant attire that has become synonymous with her artistic identity, the 64-year-old singer immediately established an intimate connection with the audience.
Before launching into her opening number, Kidjo delivered a powerful message that set the tone for the evening: “Long live Africa, long live humanity!”—a fraternity call that perfectly encapsulates her lifelong commitment to social justice and human rights.
A Musical Journey Across Continents
Opening with “Kukua,” Kidjo instantly created a warm, inviting atmosphere that transformed the historic venue into a space of collective celebration. The crowd was soon transported on an immersive musical odyssey that traversed the diverse soundscapes of Africa and beyond.
The evening featured an impressive repertoire of 23 tracks, seamlessly blending her greatest hits with iconic pieces from her extensive catalog. Among the most poignant moments was her performance of “Super Woman”—a moving tribute to women who have fought against injustice, discrimination, and oppression, delivered with the courage and resilience that has defined her career.
Audience Communion and Global Anthems
The concert reached fever pitch when the crowd joined Kidjo in singing along to beloved favorites including “You Can,” “Ayé Kan,” “Malaika,” and “Oyaya,” creating a profound sense of communion between the artist and her Tunisian audience. The evening’s undisputed highlight came with her interpretation of “Jerusalema,” the global phenomenon that has become an anthem of hope and unity worldwide.
Beyond a Concert: A Message of Peace
Through this masterful performance, Angélique Kidjo once again confirmed her status as a true ambassador of African music on the international stage. Her Carthage concert transcended the boundaries of a mere musical performance, becoming instead a powerful testament to peace, solidarity, and the celebration of cultural diversity.
As the final notes echoed through the ancient Roman amphitheater, it was clear that Kidjo had delivered far more than a concert—she had offered a profound message of hope and humanity that resonated deeply with every person in attendance.
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