Limerick’s strong and vibrant African community will be celebrating their rich and varied culture and heritage when the Africa Day events begin this week (from Monday 21 May 2018).
The week long Irish Aid supported programme, delivered through Limerick City and County Council and Doras Luimní is a celebration of the wonderful fusion of African cultures that have merged into, and become, an integral part of Limerick.
Africa Day is celebrating its 13th anniversary and organisers are inviting all Limerick residents to join in the week long party as it celebrates Limerick's rich diversity, while giving voice to a new and welcoming Limerick.
The programme is funded by Irish Aid under its Africa Day programme and coordinated in Limerick by a group of African community members who have drawn up a varied and exciting series of events, with the support of Limerick City and County Council and Doras Luimní.
These free events will take place throughout the week, kicking off today (Monday 21 May), with an official opening by Mayor of the City and County of Limerick Cllr Stephen Keary at Council Headquarters in Merchant’s Quay.
Other events include:
- Presentations in schools on African Culture & Heritage on Tuesday 22 May
- A ‘Taste of Africa’ on Wednesday 23 May in Central Buildings, 51 O’Connell Street, Limerick
- African Culture & Heritage Drumming Workshop in Ormston House on Thursday 24 May
- African Football Cup Tournament at Delta Sports Dome, Ballysimon on Saturday 26 May
To finish off the celebrations, there will be a Family Fun Day on Sunday 27 May at the Milk Market from 1pm - 6pm.
This free family fun event will see members of the public getting the opportunity to savour African cuisine, entertainment with African Drumming, Elikya, Limerick Gospel Choir, comedy from Fabu D and much more.
Africa Day is an initiative of the African Union, which celebrates African diversity and success and the cultural and economic potential of the continent.
Welcoming Africa Day 2018, Mayor of the City and County of Limerick, Cllr Stephen Keary said: “The African community plays an important part in the fabric of Limerick life. I look forward to welcoming people from all different backgrounds to join us in Limerick for the celebrations for Africa Day 2018 and I would like to encourage everyone in Limerick to participate in the many events, particularly the Family Fun Day.”
“The activities that are taking place this year will no doubt help to promote a positive image of Africa and highlight the Irish Aid programme that is taking place. I wish everyone involved a successful and entertaining week.”
Admission to all Africa Day 2018 events is free of charge.
For further information please click here or www.africaday.ie