African culture is set to take centre stage in conversations around diplomacy, economic development and regional integration following the launch of the Goge Africa Cultural Dialogue and Diplomacy Series, a new initiative designed to transform the continent's rich heritage into a catalyst for sustainable growth.
The programme, unveiled by Goge Africa, one of the continent's foremost cultural storytelling and tourism platforms, marks a strategic shift from documenting Africa's traditions to actively shaping policy conversations around culture as a driver of development.
The inaugural edition of the dialogue series is scheduled to hold on July 2, 2026, at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) in Victoria Island, Lagos.
The event is being organised in partnership with the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) and the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC) under the theme: "Eyo, Culture and Soft Power: Driving Diplomacy, Integration and Economic Growth."
According to the organisers, the initiative is designed to go beyond conventional panel discussions by creating a platform where policymakers, cultural leaders, academics, business executives and members of the creative industry can jointly examine how Africa's cultural assets can generate economic value, strengthen diplomatic relations and expand the continent's influence on the global stage.
For more than two decades, Goge Africa has built a reputation for showcasing the continent's diverse cultures, traditions and tourism destinations through television and digital storytelling. The organisation says the new dialogue series represents the next phase of its mission by creating practical pathways for culture to influence governance, commerce and international engagement.
"Culture is Africa's ultimate superpower. It's how we tell our stories, shape our identity, and command global attention," he said.
He explained that the dialogue series is intended to move beyond celebrating history by positioning culture as a tool for future economic transformation.
"This dialogue isn't just about looking back at where we come from. It's about looking forward. We're positioning our heritage as a catalyst for real investment, fresh innovation, and cross-border collaboration."
Organisers believe the series will encourage stronger collaboration between governments, private sector players, cultural institutions and development partners, while helping to unlock new opportunities in tourism, the creative economy, cultural exports and regional cooperation.
With growing global recognition of culture as an instrument of soft power, the Goge Africa Cultural Dialogue and Diplomacy Series aims to establish itself as a platform where ideas, policies and partnerships converge to advance Africa's cultural influence and economic aspirations.