Ghanaian music stars headline African Heritage Festival in Manchester

Three of Ghana's most celebrated musical exports are heading to the United Kingdom as the African Heritage Festival prepares to light up Manchester this August.

Kofi Kinaata, Wendy Shay, and Akwaboah have been announced as headliners for the event, organised by Global Events and Planning and scheduled for Friday, August 28, 2026, at the iconic Albert Hall Manchester on 27 Peter Street. Doors open at 7PM and the night runs through to 11PM.

The three acts bring a combined weight of international recognition and stage experience that makes this one of the most compelling Ghanaian music events the UK has seen in recent years.

Kofi Kinaata, widely regarded as one of Ghana's finest lyricists, has built a reputation that stretches well beyond the country's borders. The Takoradi-born highlife and afropop artist has performed on stages across Europe, North America and across the African continent, earning critical acclaim and a devoted international following. His consistent showing at the Ghana Music Awards — where he has claimed the coveted Songwriter of the Year title multiple times — cements his status as one of the most decorated artists of his generation.

Wendy Shay has equally made her mark on the global stage. Since bursting onto the scene under the Rufftown Records banner, the Afropop and dancehall artist has headlined concerts in the UK, Germany, and across Europe, drawing large diaspora crowds wherever she performs. Her energy on stage and string of radio hits have earned her multiple award nominations and wins both locally and internationally, making her one of Ghana's most recognised female voices abroad.

Akwaboah, son of legendary Ghanaian musician Kwabena Akwaboah, has carved out a distinct lane as one of the country's most soulful and versatile performers. A celebrated songwriter and recording artiste, he has graced international stages and accumulated an impressive haul of awards across Ghana and the African continent.

Together, the three headline acts make the African Heritage Festival Manchester one of the must-attend events of the summer for Ghanaians and African music lovers in the UK.

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