A note from the Organisation committee:

Located on the shores of the Atlantic ocean, in North West Casamance (South of Senegal) a few miles from South West Gambia, Abene’s population consists of Mandinkas, Diolas, Karones, Peuls and other ethnies living mostly from farming and fishing in a harmonious atmosphere of village community.
From this life of tradition, respect between the different communities and cultural exchanges, came the idea of organising "Abene Festivalo" in co-operation with the foundation Eurafrika based in Netherlands.
Today, in order to perpetuate with this event of international scope, the youth of Abene organise yearly a festival of theatre, music, dance and African sport, during the festive season of harvesting (December-January).
The aim of the organising committee is to create a cultural space in Casamance, not only by inviting groups who enjoy international fame but also to promote local groups as well as foreign groups whose music is inspired from African culture.
Therefore the committee contributes actively to the socio-cultural and economical development of the region of South Senegal.
Since December 1994, date of the 1st festival, we encourage actions in different aspects of health, education, culture and sport thanks to the funds raised by the festival.

Thanks to:
The village of Abene, the elderly of the village, wise men perpetuating our tradition, our Chief of the village Amadou Diabang, the neighbouring villages, the rural committee of Kafountine, the regional sub-committee of Diouloulou, the public, the volunteers and the artists of the festival, the broadcasting radios Sud FM, Dunyaa FM and Kairaba FM, the foundation Eurafrika NL, Campement touristique Casamar, Village Hôtel Le Kalissai, Association Kayeba and all those who have directly or indirectly supported the organisation of "Abene Festivalo".

Copyright (L Sonko-Marie)