Galway is set to come alive to the sounds, rhythms, sights, and tastes of Africa on Friday May 27 and Saturday 28 as the city marks Africa Day 2011.
Africa Day falls on May 25 each year. An initiative of the African Union, it aims to celebrate African diversity and success and the cultural and ec
In Ireland, events to mark Africa Day are supported by Irish Aid, the Government’s programme for overseas development.
To mark Africa Day Galway will host a variety of musical, cultural, sporting, and culinary events, organised by Spirit of Voice Productions.
African music will be performed, heard, and enjoyed in Club Áras na nGael, Dominick Street, on Saturday May 28 from 2pm to 1am. The line up includes Ghanian reggae group Stewert, Nigerian multi instrumentalist Toluking and his soul-funk band, African youth crew the Divine rappers, jazz vocalist Helen Webb, and the Galway Multicultural Choir.
The same event will also see DJ sets; the Lady Alice Fashion models from Cameroon, showcasing the latest African style designs; a BBQ; and the Solace arts and crafts collective presenting artwork from eight Galway women based in Eglinton House.
Admission to the Club Áras na nGael event is free before 10pm and non members are welcome.
Five Galway city and county schools will take part in the 10 pin bowling Africa Day Cup in which class teams will represent 12 African nations to compete for the trophy.
County Mayor Jimmy McClearn will attend the ceremony to present the prize awards to players. The children will also have the opportunity to learn a traditional African song before performing with the Galway Multicultural Choir for a cultural heritage recording project.
Commenting on the event, event organiser Gerry Mulkerrins said: “Everyone is welcome to sample the African music food and fashion on show and a fun day out is guaranteed for all.”
For more information see www.africaday.ie and www.spiritofvoice.com
