Cape Town commemorates Africa Day

Organised by the Alliance for Refugees in South Africa (AFRISA) the African Cultural Festival was held on Saturday under the theme is ‘one continent, one stage.'

"The festival is aimed at celebrating the rich heritage of Africa and proudly acknowledging great African statesmen who paved the way for the emancipation of this continent," said Director of AFRISA, George Pambason.

"Since its launch in 2005, this annual event has created a common platform to unite African people and harmonise their co-existence," he continued.

Africa Day was held against the backdrop of foreign nationals in South Africa being attacked and forced to flee their homes.

The festival forms part of events to celebrate the 45th Africa Day which has been observed annually since 1963 on 25 May.

It aims to commemorate the establishment of the African Union (AU), and the former Organisation of African Unity. It was set up to acknowledge and celebrate Africa's history, heritage and culture.

There was also an arts and crafts exhibition involving about 100 exhibitors, short films on African heritage, poetry readings, drama, song and dance performances by 50 cultural groups from various African countries, and an HIV and AIDS awareness concert.

Schools, consulates, embassies, cultural groups, non-governmental organisations, artists and crafters, government departments, universities and international agencies all participated in the day.

The City of Cape Town's Department of Economic Development, Social Development and Tourism has sponsored R150 000 towards the event.

"The city embraces every initiative to promote a deeper respect for human rights and a greater acceptance of cultural diversity," said Mayoral Committee Member for Economic, Social Development and Tourism, Simon Grindrod.

This year's activities included a gourmet feast of at least 30 different African cuisines from Cairo to Cape Town.

There were plenty of activities held in Johannesburg too.

"I think the message of Africa Day has always conceptualised around music as a form of art which can bring social change and forge cross-cultural links," said Marang Setshwaelo from Dreamcatcher- the weekend's organisers.

She said this year they had tried to intensify their efforts in reiterating the message of unity.

According to the City of Johannesburg, Africa Day will celebrate the city's melting pot of people and cultures from all over the continent, all of whom make the city what it is.

"Johannesburg joins all Africans in celebrating the continent's achievements and in recommitting ourselves to continuing to struggle for a better life for all," Mayoral Committee for Community Development, Nandi Mayethula-Khoza said.

The city is a melting pot of peoples and cultures from all over the African continent.

"It's only fitting that our Africa Day celebrations reflect the diversity of our city in an outstanding display of artistic talent."

For safety, the organisers worked with the metro police and the South African Police Service (SAPS) to curb any hooliganism.

Article published courtesy of BuaNews