Women redefine Gnaoua at Essaouira Festival

In Essaouira, the Gnaoua and World Music Festival opened with its signature festive parade through the medina, celebrating the city’s rich Gnaoua heritage. Recognized by UNESCO in 2019, Gnaoua is both a spiritual music and a community of Sub-Saharan origin in Morocco. Once a tradition dominated by men, the festival’s 26th edition shone a spotlight on women artists who are redefining the genre.

Leading this transformation is Asmaa…