THE AFRICAN COURIER. Reporting Africa and its Diaspora! The African Courier is an international magazine published in Germany to report on Africa and the Diaspora African experience. The first issue of the bimonthly magazine appeared on the newsstands on 15 February 1998. The African Courier is a communication forum for European-African political, economic and cultural exchanges, and a voice for Africa in Europe.
The Concerned Nigerians Kassel Germany e.V. has been awarded the prestigious Democracy Strengthener Award (“Demokratie-Verstärker”) by the city of Kassel in the category of “Peace and International Understanding.” This accolade, accompanied by a €1,000 prize, recognizes the association’s unwavering dedication to fostering diversity, tolerance and intercultural dialogue within the community.
The Democracy Strengthener Award, under the patronage of Christoph Lübcke, son of the late Dr Walter Lübcke*, honours individuals and organizations that actively promote dialogue, understanding and peaceful coexistence. The Concerned Nigerians Kassel Germany e.V.’s receipt of this award underscores their significant contributions to enhancing social cohesion and breaking down prejudices in Kassel.
Chuks Lewis Ehiwario, President of The Concerned Nigerians Germany e.V., expressed profound gratitude to all members, volunteers and supporters, stating that their collective commitment has been instrumental in achieving this milestone. The organization remains steadfast in its mission to make Kassel a model city of diversity, tolerance and peace, viewing this award as both recognition of past efforts and a call to further advance these essential projects.
Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Kassel, The Concerned Nigerians Germany e.V. is a non-profit organization committed to promoting and preserving the culture and heritage of Nigerians and individuals of African descent in Germany. The association actively combats discrimination and supports social integration through various initiatives, including educational workshops, cultural events and community outreach programs. Their efforts aim to create a supportive environment that helps individuals adapt and thrive in German society.
In 2024, the organization hosted several impactful events, such as the “Diversity and Tolerance in Practice” workshop on 12 October, which featured interactive sessions designed to promote respect and understanding across cultures. Additionally, on 26 October, they organized “Nigeria Night” at the Kulturzentrum Schlachthof Kassel to celebrate Nigeria’s 64th independence anniversary, bringing together over 300 attendees to foster connections and cultural exchange.
For more information about The Concerned Nigerians Germany e.V. and their initiatives, visit their official website at https://concerned-nigerians.org
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* Dr Walter Lübcke (1953–2019) was a German politician from the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) who served as the district president of Kassel in the state of Hesse. He was known for his strong advocacy of democratic values and his support for refugees during the 2015 migration crisis. On 2 June 2019, Lübcke was assassinated outside his home by Stephan Ernst, a far-right extremist with a history of neo-Nazi ties. The murder was politically motivated, as Lübcke had publicly defended Germany’s refugee policies. His killing was widely seen as a shocking act of right-wing terrorism and a warning sign of rising far-right extremism in Germany. Ernst was later convicted and sentenced to life in prison.
