Cape Town – South African superstar Tyla and Nigerian hitmaker Ayra Starr are set to represent Africa on one of the world’s biggest stages, as they headline the 2025 Global Citizen Festival in New York City’s Central Park.
The event, taking place on 27 September, brings together an international lineup of artists and activists committed to ending extreme poverty and driving sustainable change.
Global Citizen confirmed that the two African artists will join global powerhouses including The Weeknd, Shakira, and Mariah the Scientist. The inclusion of Tyla and Ayra Starr reflects the growing global influence of African music and the festival’s commitment to cultural representation.
“African artists Tyla and Ayra Starr will take the stage… underscoring the festival’s growing focus on African artistry and the continent’s role in the global cultural and development agenda,” Global Citizen said in a statement, according to Music in Africa.
We’re SO back. #GlobalCitizenFestival returns to Central Park Sept 27 — with @theweeknd, @shakira, @Tyllaaaaaaa, @ayrastarr & Mariah the Scientist lighting up NYC. Oh, and guess who’s hosting? 👀 Our very own Global Citizen Ambassador, @RealHughJackman.
🎟️ Better yet, tickets… pic.twitter.com/3VnUcTtzdv
— Global Citizen ⭕ (@GlblCtzn) July 22, 2025
The festival’s 2025 campaign, themed “Amplify the Movement,” focuses on driving tangible impact in energy access, education, conservation, and community empowerment.
Through partnerships with governments, NGOs and private entities, the campaign is mobilising over $1.5 billion in renewable energy investment to benefit more than one million people in Africa and create jobs for 50,000 young Africans. It also aims to protect 30 million hectares of the Amazon rainforest, and to expand access to education for thousands of children worldwide through a partnership with FIFA.
This year’s #GlobalCitizenFestival lineup couldn’t be more of a vibe ✨
On Sept 27, @theweeknd, @shakira, @Tyllaaaaaaa, @ayrastarr & Mariah the Scientist hit the stage in NYC’s Central Park for a night of unforgettable music and unstoppable action to create a better world.… pic.twitter.com/W71F6DFSN2
— Global Citizen ⭕ (@GlblCtzn) July 22, 2025
Global Citizen co-founder and CEO Hugh Evans urged public and private stakeholders to accelerate their commitments.
“Ending extreme poverty is within our reach – but only if we come together. That means scaling up renewable energy, protecting the Amazon, and investing in education for the next generation,” Evans said in an official release.
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compiled by Lisabeal Nqamqhele
