Kanilai village, the birthplace of the Gambian leader, President Yahya Jammeh is set to host its 4th edition of the International Cultural Festival, slated for Friday 22nd June - Sunday 8th July 2007. According to a press release issued to the Daily Observer by the organising committee, the 4th edition of the Kanilai International Cultural Festival, which is slated for Friday 22nd June to Sunday 8th July 2007, under the distinguished chief patronage of the Gambian leader, His Excellency, President Yahya Jammeh is designed to revive, promote and develop our rich cultural heritage.
 
The press release further noted that, the event will showcase the diverse traditions of the different ethnic groups within the sub- region, and is expected to be characterised by mystical displays, masquerade performances, music, dance and drama extravaganza.

The organising committee hinted that special invitations for the event have been extended to Mali, Guinea Bissau, Mauritania, Sierra Leone, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, South Africa, Guinea Conakry, etc.  It also noted that renowned musical artists within the sub-region will be in attendance.
 
The general public, as well as cultural actors and performers are invited to witness and participate in what they described as an exceptional show of African talent which is increasingly gaining popularity in our sub-region and the African continent in general.

The organising committee noted that, they will soon embark on a massive sensitisation tour of the provinces to discuss with governors and seyfolu on the modalities of their participation. Invitations are hereby extended to all cultural groups that can show variety and they should bring in their own cooking utensils.  All cultural groups should report to Kanilai on Friday 22nd June 2007, at 4.00 pm for registration and accommodation, the press statement noted.