Sun shines on Africa Day in Navan

African food, music and song were among the many attractions of Africa Day in Meath which took place in Claremont Stadium, Navan, on Saturday. The one-day festival celebrated African cultural heritage with an array of African food, music, folk tales, costumes, dance, history, art and much more. The event was launched by the Deputy Mayor of Navan, Cllr Phil Brennan, who spoke about the positive contribution of the African community in Meath. A special keynote address was given by Benedicta Attoh, a leading figure in the African Womens Movement in Ireland, and director of the Africa Centre. She spoke about the importance of supporting culture and identity in the African community and the need to support the integration of the African community in Ireland through communities working together in partnership. Events that took place on the day included African drumming, a traditional costume competition, African singing and music, a football tournament, traditional story-telling for children, face-painting with an African theme along with other childrens activities. Next year the organisers hope to organise a series of events around the county. The event was funded by Navan Community Forum under the Meath Festivals of Culture Initiative and Navan Town Council as part of Meath Social Inclusion Week. Africa Day is the official day of the African Union and marks African unity. Ireland has historically strong connections to Africa on social, economic, cultural and politically. This year's celebration of Africa Day was the endeavour of the African Women Development Initiative (AWDI), the Africa-Caribbean Forum (ACF) and Cultúr, a community organisation working with ethnic minorities living in Meath.