Western Cape Government and Artscape host vibrant Africa Day Celebrations

The Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS) hosted Africa Day Celebrations at the Artscape Theatre on 25 May 2017. Africa Day is celebrated on 25 May every year around the world to commemorate the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (African Union) in 1963. The celebrations highlight African solidarity, unity in diversity, creativity, challenges and successes, and the cultural and economic potential of the continent. This is also a platform for the continent to engage and build stronger networks and partnerships at various levels across national and international boundaries.

The African Union (AU) declared the theme for this year as “The African year of Harnessing the Demographic Dividend through Investments in the Youth.”

The fan fair of celebrations included Afrocentric entertainment in the Piazza of Artscape as well as exhibitions by various Consul-Generals of African countries such as Namibia, Angola, Madagascar and Mozambique. Guests had a true African experience and enjoyed tasting local delicacies.

The celebrations also coincided with the 19th ASSITEJ World Congress and International Theatre Festival for Children and People which is being held for the first time in Africa. ASSITEJ promotes and facilitates the growth of theatre for young audiences across the world.

During the formal part of the celebrations Chief Executive Officer of Artscape, Marlene le Roux, welcomed guests to the prestigious event. “Let us invest in the young people in our continent in order to eradicate xenophobia and racism,” said Le Roux.

The keynote address was delivered by Minister Anroux Marais who encouraged people to be proudly African. “As Africans we all have a role to play in sharing the African story so that the world at large is aware of the realities of our continent. We need to make them aware of our achievements, our successes, our people, our food, our languages, our cultures and our everyday lives. There is nobody better to tell our stories than ourselves”.

Africa has a rich and diverse heritage and is a key partner for development. Come celebrate our dynamic opportunities and achievements. Let us inspire a united sense of African Pride, BETTER TOGETHER.