A line-up of big names in the jazz world, including the iconic Brazilian musician, Gilberto Gil, starred in the kick off of the fifth edition of the Cairo International Jazz Festival on Thursday 21 March.

The festival presented Gil with its Lifetime Achievement Award at the end of his performance.

Other performances included Dina El-Wadidi (Egypt), Ribab Fusion (Morocco), Kristina Tuomi (Germany) and Ali El-Farouk Trio featuring Karam Mourad (Egypt/Canada).

The Cairo Jazz Festival continues for the rest of the weekend with an extensive programme.

Read Ahram Online's interview with the festival founder Amro Salah.

All photos by Rowan El Shimi