Saint-Louis is preparing to resonate with music and artistic creation on November 28 and 29, for the 15th edition of the Métissons festival. For two days, the city will become a true platform for cultural expression, showcasing local and international talent.

The organizing committee held a press conference to present the main features of the event, whose primary ambition is to promote artists from Saint-Louis and Senegal.

Babacar Guèye, president and director of the festival, expressed his gratitude to the artists who confirmed their participation, while also addressing the budgetary difficulties that nearly jeopardized this year's event. He made a solemn appeal to local and national authorities for greater support for cultural initiatives, emphasizing the crucial role of culture in the development of tourism in Saint-Louis.

The president of the Métissons festival also denounced the lack of involvement from national and multinational companies operating in the region, urging these organizations to direct more of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds towards the cultural sector. He encouraged artists, cultural operators, and promoters to unite around a common goal: strengthening the artistic vitality of Saint-Louis.

A rich and diverse program

The "in" concerts will be held at the French Institute in Saint-Louis, with an eclectic program bringing together artists such as kora player Lamine Cissokho (Senegal), Naya De Nayama (Senegal–Togo–Benin–Germany), Adama Baldé alias "Prefect Adam" (Senegal), Thiatou Ndar, Malick Diabou Seck and the JAMM Sextet group composed of six musicians.

Around the concerts, the public will be able to attend a Takussanu Ndar, participate in a panel, discover showcases, take part in professional meetings and visit various exhibitions.

The "off" part, meanwhile, will take place in several restaurants, bars and hotels in the city, creating an artistic atmosphere spread throughout Saint-Louis.

Thiatou Ndar opens

The official opening will be performed by Thiatou Ndar, a guitarist and singer from Saint-Louis known for his fusion of traditional Senegalese rhythms and modern sounds. His performance is highly anticipated by music lovers. Malick Diabou Seck, nephew of the renowned Abdou Guité Seck, will also represent the new generation of local artists.

On the visual arts side, exhibitions will be offered, notably with the visual artist and painter from Saint-Louis, Abdou Karim Fall, initiator of the Saint-Louis Artistic Itineraries.