In a historic display of cultural diplomacy, Afrobeats icon Davido electrified Freetown on December 22, 2025, headlining the Gbamgbaode Festival at Sugarland Beach.
Originally slated for December 21, the performance was moved to Monday to avoid a clash with the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) opening ceremony in Morocco, where Davido also performed.
The high-stakes visit began with a private reception at the State Lodge, where Davido met First Lady Fatima Maada Bio. Describing the singer as a “unifying force for Africa’s youth,” the First Lady hosted an insightful discussion on cultural empowerment before joining the star at the festival.
During the sold-out concert—a key stop on his 5ive Alive World Tour—Davido delivered a high-energy set that featured traditional stilt performers and a wardrobe showcasing “real Sierra Leone culture” designed by Hollyandroo.
A standout moment occurred when the First Lady joined Davido on stage, delighting thousands of fans who had gathered for the massive beach event. The performance personified Davido’s bond with Sierra Leone, which he hailed as his “second home”.
