The internationally-renowned Malian-born musical diva, Fanta Mbackeh Kuyate who was recently in The Gambia to grace the christening of baby Muhammad Jammeh has expressed her readiness to stage the third edition of Festival Mama Ya in The Gambia come March 29th 2008 at the Teranga Beach Club.

Festival Mama Ya is an annual cultural gala organised to bring female African artists under one roof with aim of promoting African integration.

The second edition was held last March in Senegal and it was described as a thundering success.

In an interview with The Point the Malian music legend, who is currently domiciling in Dakar, Senegal, said that she has already discussed this issue with Gambian authorities and they have given her the go ahead to organise the event in this country.  She however appealed to individuals and institutions to lend her support to make it happen in The Gambia. She further revealed that Festival Mama Ya is a unique event that provides an opportunity to African female artists to showcase their talent and, by extension promote, the diverse cultures of the Continent.