1st edition of the “Orange Zouglou Days” organized by Orange Côte d’Ivoire

The first edition of these local music gatherings was appealing to a broad cross-section of the public. During the whole of November, the Orange caravan wound its way through the communities in the Abidjan district to discover young local talent. A wôyô contest, performances from budding artists, live shows from well-known artists and the building of a Zouglou village were all highlights of the festival.

the wôyô contest
The “Orange Zouglou days” platform showcases new talent, and from November 5-27, performers were able to perform live outside, in four of Abidjan’s communities: Koumassi, Yopougon, Treichville and Abobo. 10 groups per community competed to take part in the final, which was won by Yopougon’s “Pro wôyô.” The closing ceremony at Treichville’s Palais de la Culture ended with a brand new show. “Ella de la Soul”, “Les Mercenaires”, “Fitini” and “Petit Denis” among others performed on stage until the early hours. The winner of this contest received a drum-shaped trophy in honor of the wôyô spirit. What’s more, they also won the right to record their album in a studio, to make a video and to a year’s worth of promotion with the support of Orange Côte d’Ivoire.

the press challenge
In connection with the " Orange Zouglou Days", Orange Côte d’Ivoire also organized a press challenge to reward the best journalists representing 20 different press titles. The ceremony took place on December 29. The winners of the press challenge are: “Déclic Magazine” awarded first prize, followed in 2nd place by “Prestige Magazine” with “Réalités” in 3rd place. For daily news titles, “Le Mandat” was the winner, with “Inter” the runner-up and “Nouveau courrier” in 3rd place. The journalists, who were all very enthusiastic having taken part in this experience, were very happy to win top-of-the-range cell phones.

Orange Côte d’Ivoire initiatives
Orange Côte d’Ivoire is the main sponsor of the “International Zouglou Festival” (Fiz). The “Orange Zouglou Days” are a logical progression from this to find new local talent. For the past year, Orange Côte d’Ivoire has also been supporting the “zougloukata” broadcast on Radio Jam.


find out more
the Orange Côte d’Ivoire website
photos from "Orange Zouglou Days"
video of the final wôyô contest
photos from the press challenge ceremony