South African Grammy winner Tyla and Nigerian Afrobeats star Ayra Starr are set to shine on one of the world’s biggest stages. The two African artists will perform at this year’s Global Citizen Festival, happening on September 27 in Central Park, New York City.
This year’s event promises a star-studded lineup, with The Weeknd and Shakira headlining the show. Hollywood actor and long-time Global Citizen ambassador Hugh Jackman will return as the host.
According to Okay Africa, the Global Citizen Festival isn’t just about music. It’s a global campaign that uses the power of entertainment to call for action against extreme poverty and raise awareness about serious issues facing the world. This year, the focus is on helping provide clean energy to one million people in Africa, improving education for 30,000 children, and protecting 30 million hectares of the Amazon rainforest. The campaign also aims to recruit 40,000 volunteers across New York City to help with community work.
Tyla, who made headlines with her smash hit “Water” and a Grammy win for Best African Music Performance, continues to make waves internationally. Her appearance at Global Citizen is a big moment in her already impressive journey. From Johannesburg to the world stage, Tyla has become a symbol of Africa’s rising talent.
Joining her is Nigeria’s Ayra Starr, one of the leading names in today’s Afrobeats movement. Known for her bold style and hits like “Rush,” Ayra is quickly becoming a global sensation. Her music blends modern sounds with African roots, making her one of the most exciting young voices in music right now.
Having both Tyla and Ayra Starr on the lineup is a strong sign that Africa is taking center stage in the global conversation. Their performances will help spotlight one of Global Citizen’s key goals this year — the Scaling Up Renewables in Africa campaign. This project aims to raise $1.5 billion to train 50,000 young workers in solar installation, grid maintenance, and other energy skills. The campaign could bring electricity to over a million people, create jobs, and cut carbon emissions.
Global Citizen CEO Hugh Evans shared why this work is so important: “Ending extreme poverty is within our reach – but only if we come together to ensure governments and corporations deliver on their promises: scaling up renewable energy, protecting the Amazon, and investing in education for the next generation.”
With global stars like Tyla and Ayra Starr lending their voices and talent, this year’s festival is not just a concert , it’s a call to action. And Africa is right at the heart of it.
