Africa Day Celebrations at the City Council of Port-Louis, Mauritius By Brahma Kumaris
Africa Day, celebrated annually on May 25th, commemorates the founding of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in 1963, which later became the African Union (AU). This day serves as an opportunity to honor African unity, diversity, and the progress made by African nations. It is a day to reflect on the achievements, challenges, and the immense potential of the African continent. The program aimed to celebrate Africa Day and the richness and potential for African prosperity. The theme for the year was “Africa –Opportunities in Challenging Times,” with a focus on building capacity and inner strengths through keynote addresses.
On Friday, 26th May 2023, the Africa Day Celebrations event was held at the City Council of Port-Louis, the capital city of Mauritius. The event was organized under the slogan “OUR AFRICA, OUR FUTURE,” aimed to celebrate African unity, culture, and the aspirations of the continent.
The program commenced with the national anthem, followed by the African Union anthem. Mr. Ricardo Rose, the Co-ordinator of Inner Space Meditation Centre, welcomed the audience. He gave an overview of the program and set up the context for which this program was organized. This program was held with the collaboration of the City council of Port-Louis.
Notable speakers at the event included Mr. Oliver Thomas, Chairperson of the Nelson Mandela Centre for African Culture. He emphasized the power of arts in uniting nations and the need to empower talents. Mr. Thomas expressed gratitude to the Brahma Kumaris for the invitation, as it was his first time attending a Brahma Kumaris event.
Mr. Mahendranath Busgopaul, Deputy Presiding Officer of ECOSOCC (Economic, Social, and Cultural Council) and representative of the African Union explained the significance of Africa Day and the challenges ahead. Mr. Busgopaul highlighted the role of ECOSOCC and the African Union in fostering peace and development.
Sister Gaitree, Chairperson of the Brahma Kumaris Mauritius, as the organizer, emphasized the importance of spirituality and values. She exemplified the concept of Ubuntu, showcasing the relevance of ancestral values in today’s world. The program concluded with a meditation session led by Sister Gaitree, invoking peace and blessings for Africa.
Mrs. Stephanie Noellis, Artist and Singer, delivered a captivating cultural performance, singing the song “Circle of Life.”
His Excellency Mr. Eddy Boissezon, GOSK, Vice President of the Republic of Mauritius was the Chief Guest. He delivered a message of peace and hope, calling upon for solidarity among African nations to overcome the hurdles of adversity. He also praised the Brahma Kumaris for the laudable task of bringing unity in the community through its programs and activities. He reiterated the need to empower arts in the community as mentioned by the Chairperson of the Nelson Mandela Centre for African Culture.
The event was graced by the presence of several members of the diplomatic corps and African personalities, including representatives from Zambia, Senegal, Cote D’Ivoire, Kenya, and Rodrigues
The guests received a token of appreciation and blessings from Sister Gaitree. The event received media coverage, with the National TV featuring it in the main news segment.
The Africa Day Celebrations at the City Council of Port-Louis, Mauritius, successfully brought together diverse stakeholders to honor African unity and culture. The event fostered a sense of solidarity and highlighted the importance of spirituality, values, and the arts in shaping the future of Africa.
Link to the full program on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qfidfwUmXbM
Link to News report in French: https://youtu.be/SuXfH2Hu0Fc
