Idris Elba hosts virtual Africa Day Benefit Concert with A-list stars

Actor, Idris Elba, will be hosting the Africa Day Benefit Concert with some of the continent’s biggest music stars. The two-hour virtual concert will be held in partnership with music channel, MTV Base Africa, and YouTube.

It is scheduled for Monday to celebrate the Africa Day.

According to Elba, who was diagnosed with Covid-19 earlier this year, the concert is to “raise funds for those impacted by Covid-19.”

“Taking a moment to shine a light on African arts to benefit the African homeland and it’s people. A continent of this size should find a way to dig deep and stand up for one another at a time like this. It’s important for the future and history will not forget,” he added.

A statement from Youtube and ViacomCBS Network Africa disclosed that funds raised will go to the World Food Program and UNICEF, who are supporting communities affected by Covid-19 on the continent.

Comedian, author, and host of Comedy Central’s “The Daily Show with Trevor Noah”, reigning Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi, renowned actor Omari Hardwick, rapper and actor Ludacris are amongst the big names who will be presenting.

Afrobeats stars Davido, Burna Boy, Adekunle Gold, Teni, Tiwa Savage, Yemi Alade, Busiswa, DJ Maphorisa & KABZA De Small, M.anifest will perform at the concert.

CNN reported that Grammy award-winning Angelique Kidjo, will also be performing the song “Pata Pata“, a new version of a 1967 hit song by Miriam Makeba.

The song was re-recorded by Kidjo urging people to keep their hands clean, stay at home, and avoid touching as ways to minimize the spread of the virus.