Riz Khan with Angelique Kidjo

Angelique Kidjo is one of Africa's top musical stars. Now she uses her music as a way to highlight the plight of Africa's poor - particularly women and children.

 

Realising the power of celebrity, this singer from the West African country of Benin, has put her fame to good use as a Unicef ambassador.

 

Angelique Kidjo believes that Malaria prevention, Aids awareness and education are key issues the continent needs to address - and quickly.

The seventh of eight children, her parents encouraged Angelique to be true to her dreams, even in a culture that frowned upon female performers. But singing led her to Paris and a career that has her in high demand performing with Western stars such as Carlos Santana, Alicia Keys, Peter Gabriel, Annie Lenox and Herbie Hancock.

 

Still, Angelique's real passion has her looking towards her homeland and giving a voice to Africa's needy.