MASA 2026 spotlights Ivorian storytellers and slam poets in Abidjan

The 2026 edition of MASA in Abidjan features prominent Ivorian storytellers and slam poets using spoken word to explore identity, history, and social issues. Flopy Mendosa and Kouami Vignon represent the country's storytelling tradition, while C'Katcha and Nin'Wlou bring contemporary slam poetry to the festival. Musicians Tehui and Dean EA provide musical accompaniment for these performances. Rebecca Compaoré presented a youth-oriented show titled "Les deux visages du silence" based on writings by Hamadou Hampaté Bâ, addressing themes of indifference toward others and the world. The festival programming includes musical performances by Josyara, Didier AWADI, and collaborations between Tehui, Dean EA, and Dei Gostel. These artists appeared on RFI's program hosted by Nathalie Amar, with correspondent Abdoul Aziz Diallo covering the Abidjan events. MASA 2026 demonstrates how verbal artistry—through storytelling, slam poetry, and musical fusion—creates direct emotional impact beyond traditional discourse. The festival runs through April 2026, showcasing how Ivorian artists use narrative forms to engage with contemporary social concerns while drawing from cultural heritage.