This edition marked the 50th anniversary of the games, as well as their return to Brazzaville, which hosted the first edition in 1965. The official opening ceremony was themed around a "Tribute to Africa, Cradle of Humanity and Congo" and was comprised of several poetic and musical scenes to tell the story of a transforming Africa and Congo also paying tribute to 50 years of African Olympism. The show was broadcast live in Africa and livestreamed for the international audience.