Kriol Jazz Festival 2026: Global Stars Descend on Praia
The city of Praia is set to transform into a global stage today as the 15th edition of the Kriol Jazz Festival (KJF) officially begins. For the next three days, one of Cape Verde’s most prestigious international events will host nine major performances, bringing together world-class musicians from four continents.
The festival, held at the historic Praça Luís de Camões, serves as a cultural bridge connecting Africa, the Americas, and Europe. This year’s edition kicks off with the “Entre Ilhas” (Between Islands) project, a unique collaboration between talent from the Canary Islands and Cape Verde.
A Diverse Musical Lineup
Fans can look forward to a rich tapestry of sounds over the three-day event. Early performances include Cape Verdean singer Ceuzany, acclaimed Cuban pianist Alfredo Rodríguez, and Brazilian star Margareth Menezes. The legendary Congolese group Les Quatre Étoiles du Zaire will also take the stage, bringing the vibrant rhythms of soukous to the capital.
The festival will conclude on Saturday with another stellar roster, featuring Cape Verdean-Guinean artist Fatté Diakité, Senegalese icon Ismaël Lô, the New York-based collective Brooklyn Funk Essentials, and Morocco’s Saad Tiouly.
Honoring a Local Legend
In addition to the international festivities, the 15th edition of KJF will pay special tribute to Zeca de Nha Reinalda. As the lead singer of the iconic group Bulimundo, Reinalda is being celebrated for his monumental 50-year career and his influential role in Cape Verdean music history.
The KJF follows closely on the heels of the Atlantic Music Expo (AME), which has been running since Monday. Together, these two events turn Praia into a bustling hub for international music industry professionals and fans alike, showcasing the best in both established and emerging global talent.
Image: Pexels – Chevanon Photography
