Culture

Africa Day 2009

by infomatique | May 22, 2009 at 12:09 pm

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Africa Day – which falls annually on 25th May – is designated by the African Union as a celebration of African diversity and success, and as an opportunity to highlight the cultural and economic potential that the continent offers.

In order to draw attention to Ireland's long relationship with many parts of Africa Irish Aid, the Government’s overseas development programme, has organised ‘Africa Day @ Iveagh Gardens’.

I have organised exclusive access to the event and am planning to publish some photographs here on Sunday.

The event programme (12:00 to 20:00 Sunday 24th. may) will include:

· Music by Vieux Farka Touré, with special appearances by Cathy Davey, Kíla, Liam Ó Maonlaí and Frances Black, alongside Congolese musician Niwel Tsumbu, Malawian chart-topper Kenny Gilmore, South African group Heartbreak Cartel, the Discovery Gospel Choir and Stone & Jezreel.

The latest additions to the main stage are Paddy Casey and African Irish hip hop group Millaz.

·        An African Bazaar featuring a mock village wedding from Malawi; coffee-making ceremonies from Ethiopia; drumming and dance performances from Uganda and Ghana, and free food samples from all over Africa.

·        African board games and giant family jigsaws.

·        A hip-hop / DJ area, with R’n’B and rap performances by Rap Ireland, True Blood Souljaz, B.I.C., Resurrection Crew and Crystal Ice.

·        Art, craft and photography exhibitions.

·        Spoken word by Zimbabwean-born blogger Itayi Viriri; travel writer Manchán Magan; sustainable development expert Professor Frank Convery; world music aficionado Gerry Godley, and social commentator Bryan Mukandi.

·        Art for kids: hieroglyphic bookmarks and face-masks.

·        Hair-braiding and face-painting.

·        Sports with SARI, the FAI, the GAA and the Camogie Association.

The full programme for the event is available at www.irishaid.gov.ie/africaday <http://www.irishaid.gov.ie/africaday> .