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Afro-bikossa: a symphony of soft power, boosting Cameroon’s Global Influence

  • Reading time:3 mins read
  • Post category:Culture

Puissance237: As the world increasingly acknowledges culture’s role in international relations, Puissance237 has identified Cameroon’s Afro-bikossa music as a powerful tool for soft power. Puissance237, an initiative of the African Centre for Competitive Intelligence (ACCI) aimed at building a regional power strategy for Cameroon under the leadership of Dr. Guy Gweth, believes that this vibrant genre, deeply rooted in Cameroonian heritage, not only enhances regional influence but also positions Cameroon as a player in the global music scene.

The Birth of Afro-bikossa

Afro-bikossa is a dynamic genre that blends traditional rhythms like Assiko, Makossa and Bikutsi with contemporary styles such as hip-hop and R&B. Created by Cameroonian producer Phil Bill, it fuses diverse musical elements, resulting in a sound that resonates both locally and globally.

Afro-bikossa as a Soft Power Tool

  1. Cultural Diplomacy: Music transcends boundaries, and Afro-bikossa can serve as a bridge between Cameroon and the world. By promoting this genre through festivals and cultural exchanges, Cameroon can enhance its visibility and assert itself as a leader in African culture.
  2. Boosting Regional Influence: Through its strategy, Puissance237, Cameroon aims to be a regional power by 2035. Afro-bikossa can unite Central Africa, fostering cultural cohesion and pride, while positioning Cameroon as a cultural hub through music festivals.
  3. Global Branding: Afro-bikossa’s unique sound can help establish a distinct musical identity for Cameroon. By investing in streaming platforms and international collaborations, Cameroon can carve out its niche in the global music industry.

Economic and Strategic Benefits

  1. Job Creation: The global music industry, valued at over $25 billion, presents opportunities for job creation in music and tourism, empowering local artists and attracting international investments.
  2. Tourism Boost: Music-driven tourism can enhance Cameroon’s appeal, similar to successful festivals worldwide, driving cultural tourism and interest in Cameroon’s broader offerings.
  3. Youth Empowerment: Supporting Afro-bikossa can engage Cameroon’s youth in cultural production, reducing unemployment and fostering national pride.

To fully harness Afro-bikossa’s potential, Cameroon must invest in infrastructure, global promotion, supportive policies, and training programs for artists. By learning from countries like Nigeria which has become synonymous with the global rise of Afrobeat or South Korea which turned K-Pop into a $5 billion industry through a deliberate government-led strategy coupled with private investment, Cameroon can elevate Afro-bikossa as a cornerstone of its soft power strategy, amplifying its global influence and cultural identity. In an era where culture shapes perceptions, Afro-bikossa could be the sound that unites and showcases Cameroon to the world.

The Puissance237 team