Fingo Festival took place between Raglan Road (renamed Dr Jacob Zuma Drive) and Wood Street, during the National Arts Festival. Residents enjoyed a combination of visiting performers and local acts, as well as some rich intellectual offerings.
Adon Giya, the Festival’s Technical Director, said, “It is something that we do every year during the National Arts Festival this side of town.
“We are trying this side. We are making people feel part of it.”
Giya said Izodlala nathi was a daily programme focused on children, most of whom were on school hliday.
“The programmes are done by local people, which means job oportunities for the people,” Giya said. “It includes reading of stories, drawing and play-acting.
Director Bulelani Booi said it was the Fingo Festival’s seventh year.
Stimulating discussions were held in the Fingo Library Hall, including a Business Dialogue, and the launch of the book, The Other Side of Freedom. Rhodes Journalism School lecturer Shepi Mati was one of the contributors, and historian Dr Nomalanga Mkhize facilitated an inspiring session as Mati and fellow former activist Phila Nkayi shared memories and insights about Grahamstown and national politics.
