The 2012 Kora Awards, held in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, have been a topic of discussion since their conclusion. MayBach Carter, a blogger, recently shared her thoughts on the event, highlighting several issues that marred the ceremony. According to Carter, the event's organization was plagued by problems, including a last-minute postponement due to American singer Chris Brown's alleged missed flight. The event was eventually held on Monday, instead of the scheduled Sunday.
The Kora Awards, founded by E. Adjovi, have a history dating back several years. Initially, the ceremony was held in South Africa and was known for its high-quality production, featuring a large stage and glamorous atmosphere. However, in 2010, the event was held in Burkina Faso, but it failed to attract a large audience. For the 2012 edition, Adjovi brought in Chris Brown, ensuring extensive media coverage. Despite some positive aspects, such as the stage design and choice of presenters, Carter raises several questions about the event's organization.
One of the major concerns raised by Carter is the issue of communication. The event's staff and organizers seemed to be out of sync, with conflicting information being shared through various channels. The community manager for the Kora Awards and the event's website were not adequately prepared to handle the buzz generated around the event. As a result, the communication was described as "cacophonous." Carter also notes that the event's staff failed to address concerns raised by artists and the public.
The event's decision to feature Chris Brown, an American artist, has also been questioned. While some argued that Brown's presence would help attract international attention, others felt that it was not the best use of resources. Carter wonders if the event would have been more successful with a local artist, such as Manu Dibango. Additionally, the decision to give Brown an award for being part of the diaspora has been criticized.
The 2012 Kora Awards also faced issues with attendance and logistics. The event was held at a 40,000-capacity stadium, but the turnout was reportedly low. Carter questions whether the organizers had overestimated the event's appeal and whether the prices for tickets and accommodations were too high. Furthermore, the event's sponsors and financial backers have not been publicly disclosed, leading to speculation about the event's funding.
In the aftermath of the event, several questions remain unanswered. Carter asks whether the organizers will apologize to the artists who traveled to the event and to the public that paid to attend. She also wonders if there will be a thorough review of the event's organization and whether changes will be made for future editions. The event's impact on the African entertainment industry and its future prospects also remain to be seen.
The 2012 Kora Awards have provided valuable lessons for event organizers in Africa. The importance of effective communication, careful planning, and attention to detail cannot be overstated. As the African entertainment industry continues to grow, events like the Kora Awards must prioritize quality and professionalism to maintain credibility and attract audiences. The event's legacy and future prospects depend on it.
Key points
- The 2012 Kora Awards were marred by logistical issues, communication breakdowns, and questions about the event's organization and future.
- The event's decision to feature Chris Brown has been criticized, with some arguing that local artists would have been a better choice.
- The event's impact on the African entertainment industry and its future prospects remain to be seen.
