“Our goal is to promote dialogue between cultures and to promote African cultures.†For its eighth edition, Africa Day returns to the Place de la Victoire in Sélestat on Saturday May 23. “The event has existed for 10 years but could not be organized during the Covid years”, specifies Erick Cakpo, president of the cultural association of Africans of Sélestat and surroundings (Acase).
From 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., visitors will be able to discover several aspects of African culture through different activities offered. “This day is linked to World Africa Day on May 25. It is an important day which is celebrated by all of Africa and the African diaspora,” continues the president of the association.
Changing the image of Africa
Far from the image of malnourished children in the collective imagination when it comes to Africa, the event wants to celebrate Africa in all its diversity. “We want to show the wealth of Africa, its potential and get out of wars and poverty,” explains Erick Cakpo. We want to break with this negative image and show what Africa is capable of.”
Filmed mainly around the African continent, Africa Day also travels several kilometers to the Pacific Ocean to settle down in Tahiti. With demonstrations of Tahitian dance, the Tau Tiare association returns once again to participate in the celebration. This small geographical difference is explained simply by the president: “I want to say, everything starts from Africa (laughing). […] It’s an open event and then we make sure people travel.”
Activities for young and old
Passersby will be able to dance to the rhythm of percussion with the Zama group and its African dance demonstration. In the Sainte-Barbe cellar, objects and products from Africa will be exhibited and sold by the associations Acpahu (Humanitarian Sharing Action), Rencontres Africaines, African Association in Alsace, Als’agoué, Gamadji and Zama Nonma. A way to raise funds to finance the actions of these organizations. The children will be able to wear beautiful ethnic makeup while making their African mask.
Organized around the terrace of the L’Alsace brasserie, Africa Day also takes place in the Sainte-Barbe pedestrian street. “Everything comes together for an African atmosphere, we even ordered the weather,” smiles the president of Acase.
To complete the trip, traditional dishes cooked by members of the association will be offered for sale. “People will be able to eat mafé or traditional dishes from Senegal. The drinks are also typical of Africa. » A colorful event that brings together all the elements to celebrate Africa and its diversity.
Africa Day, Saturday May 23 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Place de la Victoire and Sainte-Barbe cellar in Sélestat. Information and programs on the Acase association Facebook page.
