PRESS RELEASE
19th May 2023
Galway City Council has announced its plans for Africa Day 2023, which will include a cultural festival, symposium and Afro Music Night to celebrate the occasion.
On Saturday, 27th May from 12:00pm to 6:00 pm a cultural festival will take place in Salthill Park featuring live cultural music, balloonist and face painting, arts and craft display and food tasting. On Thursday, 25th May from 5:00pm to 7.30pm a symposium will take place in the Institute of Lifecourse and Society (ILAS) building in the University of Galway. This will include an arts exhibition, a showcase of African businesses, mental and health awareness session and a live Afro/Caribbean music performance. On Saturday, 27th May from 7:00pm an Afro Music Night for all of the community featuring the best Afro DJ's in Galway will take place in the Ol'55 Bar on 30 Prospect Hill. Other events taking place for Africa Day can be viewed at https://www.ireland.ie/en/africa-day/#events.
Africa Day, which falls on Thursday, 25th May, celebrates the richness of African cultures and the contribution of people of African descent to Irish life. Africa Day celebrations are organised by Irish Aid at the Department of Foreign Affairs in partnership with African embassies in Ireland and local authorities around the country. This year will see Ireland’s largest-ever Africa Day programme, with events being held nationwide.
Minister for International Development and Diaspora, Sean Fleming TD, said:
“I am delighted to launch Africa Day 2023, a day when we recognise the growing cultural, trade and political links between Ireland and Africa. I welcome the commitment and enthusiasm shown by our local authorities and community groups in organising such a diverse mix of cultural and sporting events across the country to celebrate Africa Day.
“This year’s programme is the perfect showcase of the many talented people of African heritage we have living here in Ireland. It is also a day when people of all African backgrounds come together to celebrate the diversity of Africa. I hope people will get involved and enjoy Africa Day 2023.”
For more information visit www.africaday.ie
Contact: Emma Johnston, Galway City Council.
Tel: (091) 536358