“Long live the dead!” is a musical road movie by Sofie Haenegreefs set in northern Ghana. We follow the kologo musician Stevo Atambire as he travels across the Frafra lands on his motorcycle to perform at funerals. Through his songs, he pays tribute to the deceased and helps families say their final goodbyes to their loved ones. The film premiered at the African Film Festival, where it won the Flemish UNESCO Audience Award.

Following the screening, there will be a live performance by Stevo Atambire. Stevo is an award-winning musician and the leader of Alostmen. A neo-griot of Frafra origin, he plays the Kologo like no other. This two-stringed instrument, made from a calabash and goatskin, is considered the predecessor of the banjo. It produces sounds that are both melodic and percussive. Stevo is well-known in Ghana, and his voice, playing, and messages have made him popular among the Frafra people. He is a highly sought-after musician for traditional funeral ceremonies and weddings.

Musician

Stevo Atambire: Kologo