Ethiopia’s capital is gearing up to host one of the continent’s most ambitious creative festivals as Craft Addis 2026 prepares to bring together leading figures from fashion, music, gaming, and technology under the theme “Creative Arts for Transformation.”
The three-day festival, scheduled for April 30 to May 2 at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum, aims to bridge the gap between Africa’s artistic talent and economic growth by connecting creators with investors and technology partners.
Launched by Zeleman Communications as part of its 20-year anniversary celebration, Craft Addis is envisioned as a “legacy project” that transforms the continent’s multi-billion-dollar creative potential into a viable economic engine. The event will feature influential voices and innovators from across the creative landscape.
A standout moment will be a live performance by Ethio-jazz icon Mulatu Astatke, who will take the stage with his ten-member “Steps Ahead” band from London. Alongside the concerts, the program will include masterclasses, panel discussions, and exhibitions on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Virtual Reality (VR), and other emerging tools shaping Africa’s creative economy.
In addition to its technological focus, Craft Addis will showcase African fashion through a “Craft Market” bringing together designers, artisans, and lifestyle brands. Gaming competitions and e-sports exhibitions will also highlight the growing influence of digital entertainment across the continent.
According to Zelalem Meried, CEO of Zeleman Communications, the festival’s broader vision is to position Addis Ababa as a regional “Creative Hub” that boosts both tourism and economic activity. Organized in partnership with the Addis Ababa Tourism Commission, the event is expected to draw more than 10,000 attendees and reach up to 5 million viewers through digital platforms.
A central feature of the festival will be “The Deal Room,” a dedicated business platform that connects local creators with investors, development partners, and international brands—an initiative designed to expand market access for Ethiopian creative exports.
The festival’s growing network of partners includes Ethiopian Airlines, the British Embassy, Alliance Ethio-Française, the Embassy of Sweden, and leading private-sector players such as Habesha Breweries, spotlighting the scale of private and diplomatic support behind the event.
Organizers underline that Craft Addis is designed to have long-term impact beyond the festival dates. Through the Zeleman Academy and monthly mini-events, they plan to deliver ongoing training, networking, and capacity-building programs that sustain momentum within Ethiopia’s creative ecosystem.
“With Craft Addis, we want to catalyze real transformation by investing in creative talent, technology, and collaboration,” said Zelalem. “This is not just a festival—it’s the beginning of a new chapter for Africa’s creative industries.”
