LIVERPOOL, May 19 (AGCNewsNet) - Africa Oyé, the UK’s largest celebration of African music and culture, is set to make a vibrant comeback to Liverpool's music scene this summer with two major fundraising events, following the cancellation of the Sefton Park festival due to rising costs.

The events, hosted at Liverpool's Philharmonic Hall and Birkenhead's Future Yard, aim to raise funds to secure the festival’s return in 2026.

Critically acclaimed Senegalese group Orchestra Baobab will make their debut at the historic Philharmonic Hall on Hope Street on June 15. Known for their hybrid sound combining Afro-Cuban rhythms with modern pop influences, the band formed in Dakar during the 1960s and takes its name from a nightclub built around a baobab tree.

“We can’t wait to play at the iconic Philharmonic Hall to celebrate the Africa Oyé festival,” the band members said. “We look forward to premiering new music and introducing our new members.”

The event will start at 7 pm, with tickets available through the venue's website.

In a separate concert, reggae legends Black Uhuru will take to the stage at Future Yard, Birkenhead, on June 27. The Grammy-winning group, recognised as pioneers of roots reggae, will begin their summer tour with this performance before heading to Glastonbury.

Speaking on the events, Africa Oyé's director Paul Duhaney said: "With no Oyé festival this year, we teamed up with the Philharmonic and Future Yard to bring these iconic bands to Liverpool and Birkenhead. Both nights promise to be the perfect summer evening, helping Oyé come back stronger in 2026."

The Black Uhuru performance will commence at 7:30 pm, with tickets available via the venue’s website.

Africa Oyé plans to return to Sefton Park on June 20-21, 2026.

Source: Liverpool Echo

Stay connected with AGC NewsNet for the latest news from Africa.