African nations are gearing up to celebrate one of the biggest days on the events calendar that unites the entire continent following the launch of Africa Month.
The launch which took place in Umbumbulu precedes Africa Day which is observed on 25 May, annually, throughout the world. On 25 May 1963, Africa made history with the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) to build greater understanding and solidarity between African countries and its people. Since then, 25 May has been celebrated widely across the world particularly in the continent, to signify Africa’s identity and unity. The Institute of Afrikology launched Afrika Month, on 7 May, with a conference which was held at KwaThoyana, Inkwali, in partnership with Africa Unite, Soul Me and other social cohesion advocacies and movements. As part of the launch the partners visited Vumandaba High School in Umbumbulu to activate Africa Month. Founder and CEO of the Institute of Afrikology, Dr Ashantewaan Ngidi, said the organisation will be hosting a series of Africa Day activations in partnership with the eThekwini Municipality. The aim being teaching youngsters more about the continent, heritage and culture from a Pan African perspective. Ngidi said all Africans are invited to attend to the activations and workshops which will be in line with the African Union’s Agenda 2063. “In line with with Agenda 2063, the workshops will encourage engagements in the matter of strong cultural identity, common heritage, shared values and ethics. The post-Covid environment also provides an opportunity for the promotion of equality, inclusion, social cohesion and African Renaissance as inspired by the Ubuntu philosophy, ‘I am because you are, you are because I am’ which is practise throughout the continent.” The AU is a key driver of Agenda 2063 which is a strategic framework for the socio-economic transformation of our continent. Agenda 2063 seeks to realise the African people’s aspirations for sustainable growth and development across Africa.
The seven aspirations indicating what the people of Africa want from Agenda 2063 are: a prosperous Africa based on inclusive growth and sustainable development, an integrated continent, politically united and based on the ideals of Pan-Africanism and the vision of Africa’s Renaissance, an Africa of good governance, democracy, respect for human rights, justice and the rule of law, a peaceful and secure Africa, an Africa with a strong cultural identity, common heritage, shared values and ethics, an Africa where development is people-driven, relying on the potential of African people, especially its women and youth, and caring for children and Africa as a strong, united, resilient and influential global player and partner.The theme for Africa Day 2021 is ‘The AU year of arts, Culture and Heritage: Levers for Building the Africa We Want.’ Members of the community who would like to be part of the Africa Day celebrations which will be held at the Institute of Afrikology on 25 May, are requested to contact Phumla Kwela on 061-554-8231 or by emailing info@instituteofafrikology.org or ashantewaan@instituteofafrikoloy.org.
