Femi Elufowoju Jr's Journey Across 54 African Nations Inspires New Play

In an ambitious endeavor to deepen his understanding of his African heritage, playwright Femi Elufowoju Jr embarked on a seven-year journey to visit all 54 African nations before his 60th birthday. This transformative quest has culminated in a new theatrical production titled "54.60 Africa," which showcases the rich diversity and narratives of the continent.

Elufowoju, a celebrated figure in UK theatre and the founder of Tiata Fahodzi, recognized a glaring gap in his comprehension of Africa. "At 53, I made myself a promise. Having built a reputation as the go-to authority on African culture in UK theatre, I realized my knowledge barely scratched the surface of the continent’s vast complexity," he stated in an interview with The Guardian on June 13, 2025.

The journey began during a 2015 tour with Complicité in Cape Town, where Elufowoju found himself grappling with the paradox of his Nigerian ancestry juxtaposed against his limited acquaintance with the continent. His travels took him from the bustling streets of Accra, Ghana, to the serene landscapes of Tanzania, challenging preconceived notions about Africa’s narrative. He noted a significant moment during his stay in Mbabane, Swaziland, where he connected with a gardener who shared the rarity of encountering a fellow Black traveler in the area.

Elufowoju’s experiences across the continent prompted him to reflect on the narratives that often dominate global perceptions of Africa. Instead of the cycles of crime and instability, he discovered vibrant cities, cultural richness, and a sense of community that defied stereotypes. As he traversed through countries like Mali and Sudan, he documented these encounters, which later informed the storytelling approach of his new play.

"54.60 Africa" was crafted not as a mere autobiography but as an exploration of collective African experiences through the lens of 11 fictional characters. This decision aimed to represent the continent’s multifaceted identity rather than a singular perspective. Elufowoju explained, “Africa is more than one person, and I should never be bigger than our mighty continent.”

The production reunites Elufowoju with a talented cast, including Ayo-Dele Edwards, a pioneer in bringing authentic Yoruba songs to UK theatre, and Usifu Jalloh, who has contributed significantly to the UK’s arts education. The musicality of the play is enriched by the Ganda Boys, who have influenced the East African cultural movement in London. Their composition serves not only as a backdrop but also aligns with Elufowoju's mission to advocate for social justice, emphasizing the importance of authentic African narratives in theatre.

Despite nearly three decades since the establishment of Tiata Fahodzi, Elufowoju highlights that genuine African voices continue to be marginalized in major theatrical productions. “While regional theatres increasingly listen to their communities, the West End continues to shy away from genuine African stories, preferring sanitised interpretations,” he remarked. With "54.60 Africa," he aims to counter these narratives with a more nuanced representation of Africa’s true standards and accomplishments.

The play, currently staged at the Arcola Theatre in London until July 12, 2025, seeks to challenge not only theatrical conventions but also the fundamental assumptions held about a continent often reduced to simplistic stereotypes. Elufowoju's journey, marked by personal growth and artistic exploration, offers audiences a fresh perspective on Africa, showcasing its vibrancy and dignity that calls for recognition and respect in the global cultural landscape.

As Elufowoju continues to advocate for African representation in theatre, the implications of his work extend beyond the stage, influencing perceptions of the continent and its people in broader societal contexts. His journey serves as an inspiration for future generations of artists and audiences to engage with the complexities of African identities and narratives.