Oko Drammeh, a producer, ethnomusicologist, and founder of the African Music Festival, which is one of the oldest and largest international African events in Europe, has called for a cultural renaissance in The Gambia.

In an interview with the Daily Observer, the Gambian musical tycoon, expressed his views on the total make-over and re-invention of Gambian arts and culture. “I have seen a new country with hopes and dreams. And a country moving forward to find her rightful place in the African continent, which is presently the focus of world attention,’’ he said.

Considering his native land as a country with huge potentials of rich history and culture, he indicated that there are practical art forms that Gambian artists can exploit and share with the rest of the world. “Though The Gambia is small in size, the spirit of the people is much bigger than the landscape,’’ he hinted.

Drammeh also spoke on the need for Gambian musical experts to make a come-back to the country in order to revive the country’s music industry. “As a sea-port during colonial times, The Gambia was subjected to many musical influences. That is why we were at the forefront of modern African music,” he asserted.

According to him, The Gambia’s cultural renaissance needs a veritable launching site. “If government can put in our disposal, the African Union Villa, we’ll be able to uplift The Gambia in music, artistic, and creative terms accross the world’’. In this context, he said, the infrastructure can be turned into an Arts and Culture School comprising a library, studio and other music equipment. “By making that move, we will be able to give a real boost to the tourist sector’’, he concluded.