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Momodou
Denmark
11829 Posts |
 Posted - 12 Jun 2006 : 23:05:32
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UNITING AFRICANS THROUGH CULTURE
By Fabakary B. Ceesay
The display of diverse cultures from all corners of West Africa during the official opening ceremony of the 8th edition of the International Roots Festival, on Saturday 3rd June 2006, was a sign of unity among Africans at home and abroad. There was a procession of dozens of traditional, cultural and ritual dancers, showing cultural and traditional talents.
The audience, especially those from diaspora cannot control their emotion as some, both young and old, joined in the cultural display and dance.
On her address the Vice President, Mrs. Isatou Njie-Saidy, told those from the diaspora that attending the festival is a physical and spiritual journey to the land of their ancestors. She described the Atlantic (Triangular) slave trade as one of the most barbaric incidents ever committed against human beings. She said: “Even though one can forgive, one can never forget.” She called on The Gambian Ambassadors to lobby more Africans in the diaspora to attend this unifying festival.
Speaking earlier, the Secretary of State for Tourism and Culture, Mrs. Susan Wafa Ogo, said that culture indeed is a unifying factor, which has played a leading role in the national liberation of the African people. SoS Wafa Ogo quoted the former Senegalese President, Leopord Sedar Senghore thus: “Culture is the Alpha and Omega of any meaningful development.”
She pointed out that the affirmation of cultural identity constituted one of the priorities of the government of The Gambia. John Watuzi Branch, a professor from the diaspora, said: “Culture can play a leading role in realising the dreams of Kwame Nkrumah.”
Present at the festival were Rita Marley, the widow of Bob Marley and her family, the Ghanaian Minister of Culture, Professor George Hagan, the Senegalese Minister of Culture, Mam Biran Joof, Cuban and Taiwanese Ambassadors, UNDP country representative and the US Ambassador.
Source: Foroyaa Newspaper Burning Issue
Issue No. 45/2006, 12-14 June, 2006
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A clear conscience fears no accusation - proverb from Sierra Leone |
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Newfy
Western Samoa
462 Posts |
Posted - 13 Jun 2006 : 01:51:36
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| Its so true that the sharing of cultures can be unifying and contribute to a sense of Pan Africanism, but on the same token, if a focus is preoccupied entirely with dance, music etc; it may possibly obscure a people's vision from serious issues at social and political issues at hand that need to be addressed. |
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