About TISWAF
TISWAF in Context
“Kiswahili for Unity, Peace and Prosperity”
Toronto International Swahili Festival (TISWAF) is a premier self-organized celebration of Swahili culture and traditions that is held each summer in the city of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
TISWAF attendees have the opportunity to experience Swahili food, music, art and crafts, and much more in a wholesome and family-oriented ambience. The festival provides our patrons with the opportunity to celebrate the Swahili culture in all of its diversity, vibrancy and positivity.
TISWAF 2024 Activities / Events
- Live Performances (Swahili music, comedy, and spoken word)
- Made in East Africa Exhibitions, Installations, and Arts Galleries
- Cultural Market & East Africa Village (Cultural Museum)
- Symposium, Conversations & Ubuntu Talks
- Coffee Hour with the Artistes & Music Gala Night
- Children’s Theatre and Games
- Swahili Film Screening & Exhibition
- Traditional Sports and Games
- Food Bazaar and Cooking Demonstrations
- Cultural Excursion and Awards
- Tribute Evening for the East Africa’s Legends (Bi Kidude, Shaban Robert, Wangari Maathai etc.)
- Kitenge Fashion Show and Showcasing
- Serengeti Wildebeest Parade (Participants will wear animals face-made masks).
Partnership & Exhibition
If you would like to exhibit at TISWAF 2024, follow this link. If you would like to partner with us for TISWAF 2024, please follow this link.
TISWAF Audience
TISWAF 2024 aims to engage an audience from diverse cultural backgrounds. Our primary target is Swahili Speakers but all sources of visitors and audiences are welcomed to join and experience the enchantment of Swahili culture.
F.A.Q.
Frequently Asked Questions about Toronto International Swahili Festival (TISWAF)
TISWAF 2024 will be held on 1st-3rd Nov, 2024 at at HARBOUR FRONT, TORONTO, CANADA.
The festival grounds will be open from 0630 HRS to 1800 HRS.
Yes, disabled people are very welcome and there is a disabled toilet at each toilet block.
Yes, if you would like to get a media pass to TISWAF 2024, please visit the Media Passes page and fill in the request form. We will contact you as soon as possible to finalize the accreditation process.
Yes, if you would like to exhibit at TISWAF 2024, please visit the Why Exhibit page and fill the exhibition form. We will contact you as soon as possible to finalize the exhibition application process.