AFCON 2021: 20 must-see photos from the opening ceremony

The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finally kicked off on Sunday, January 9, 2022, at the Olembe Stadium, Yaoundé.

In the two Group A fixtures played, tournament hosts Cameroon rallied from a goal down to defeat Burkina Faso in the opener.

Cape Verde was victorious against 10-man Ethiopia in the other group fixture.

Before the two games were the opening ceremony which was an opportunity for the host country to welcome participating nations and their fans.

With several colorful displays, Cameroon showed its conventional culture to viewers across the world through the opening ceremony.

The opening ceremony involved speeches from political leaders and various Confederation of African Football (CAF) officials.

To start the showcase, however, was a performance by the two musicians invited for the occasion.

Congolese singer Fally Ipupa was the Olembe stadium providing a performance rich with African culture for those present at the stadium and the fans watching around the world.

After the entertaining performance by Fally Ipupa, Ghanaian rapper, singer and songwriter Kwame Ametepee Tsikata popularly known as M.anifest took center stage.

He showcased symbols of diverse African culture while performing along with singers to thrill the crowd.

The atmosphere was electric and lively which made it an unforgettable opening ceremony.

Here are the best photos from the opening ceremony below