African culture shines bright in local celebration
At the weekend, St Columb’s Hall in Derry~Londonderry came alive with the vibrant beats of African drums and the enticing aromas of African dishes, as people gathered to celebrate Africa Day.
The celebration was organised by the African Caribbean Community Network (ACCN), supported by four local housing associations – Apex, Ark, Choice and Radius – through the ‘Housing for All’ Shared Housing Programme. The event was also supported by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, Derry City and Strabane District Council, St Columb’s Hall Trust and Greater Shantallow Area Partnership.
The free family event took place on Saturday 24 May with around 600 people in attendance, including Deputy Mayor of Derry City & Strabane, Alderman Darren Guy. Families enjoyed live performances, creative workshops, colourful face art, and sampled a variety of African food.
Doreen Murugi, CEO of ACCN, commented:
The turnout and enthusiasm at this year’s Africa Day celebration are testament to the growing strength, unity and vibrancy of our community. Through the dedication of our members and the support of our partners, ACCN continues to empower individuals and bring people together. I would like to thank all our partners for supporting such a fantastic celebration of African culture and shining a light on the positive impact of diversity and inclusion in our city.
Alderman Darren Guy, Deputy Mayor of Derry City & Strabane, said:
I was honoured to attend and speak at the Africa Day celebration, acknowledging the contribution of African people and those from other ethnic backgrounds who have made their home here. It is very important in the present political climate that we celebrate and support those who have come to our shores to live and work. I commend the work of the supporting housing associations in promoting the integration of communities here.
Sinead Corns, Good Relations Officer from Apex, speaking on behalf of the four housing associations involved, said:
It was our pleasure to support such a vibrant and inclusive event, and demonstrate how cultural celebration and community integration go hand in hand. Through the ‘Housing for All’ Shared Housing Programme, we all work to create inclusive, safe, and sustainable neighbourhoods where people of all backgrounds can come together, learn from one another and build lasting connections. By supporting events like Africa Day, we are helping to build a shared society where everyone feels at home.
Andy Mullan, Good Relations Officer from Northern Ireland Housing Executive, commented:
We were delighted to support and be part of Africa Day in St Columb’s Hall again this year which celebrates diversity in our city and provides an opportunity to promote links with the local and African communities and learn more about African and other international culture.
The Africa Day event was supported by the Department for Communities and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive’s ‘Housing for All’ Shared Housing Programme. The Programme has its origins in the NI Executive Together: Building a United Community Strategy which reflects the Executive’s commitment to improving community relations and continuing the journey towards a more united and shared society.
In Derry~Londonderry, Apex, Ark, Choice and Radius each have a shared neighbourhood – Woodlands Avenue, Tillie and Henderson, Rosses Gate and Ebrington Oaks. A potential of £45m will be invested in these shared neighbourhoods and their associated good relations plans, which are delivered in partnership with local advisory group stakeholders and residents. These plans include ‘bridging’ events which are delivered to the wider community to encourage a range of good relations outcomes which include health and wellbeing, arts and culture, education and training.
Africa Day Photo gallery
