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 African Network of Germany (TANG) is set to play a prominent role at the upcoming Bürgerfest, the German President’s Citizen Festival, which will take place on 13-14 September at Schloss Bellevue in Berlin.
Under the theme “Pamoja – Gemeinsam stärker” (Pamoja – Stronger Together), the event, among others, celebrates the longstanding relationship between Germany and Kenya.
TANG’s participation, with the theme “Diversity in Engagement”, will highlight the work and achievements of Africans living in Germany.
TANG, which supports over 900 African associations in Germany, is also using the Bürgerfest to promote African views on migration, integration and development cooperation.
A highlight of TANG’s activities at the festival is the “Have a cup of Kenyan tea with us” sessions, offering participants the chance to enjoy tea while engaging with Afro-German experts and activists in areas such as education, health, politics and development. Notably, the event will delve into pressing issues such as migration from Africa and its impact on both the continent and European countries like Germany.
Prominent Afro-German figures, such as Dr Sylvie Nantcha, the founder and chairperson of TANG, will be leading discussions and moderating sessions. Other notable personalities include Afro-German politicians, experts and activists who have made significant contributions to German society. These include Dr Karamba Diaby, the first African-born member of the federal parliament, Joe Chialo, Senator for Culture in Berlin, and Elombo Boyelela, member of the state parliament in Bremen, among others.
Beyond discussions, TANG will offer an array of interactive experiences. Visitors can participate in an Africa Quiz, test their knowledge with a world map game, and enjoy a fashion show titled “Explore Africa through Fashion”, which aims to bring Africa’s diverse cultures to life through clothing. Attendees will also have the chance to listen to readings of African literature and enjoy performances by Afro-German youth groups, including music and traditional drumming.
For those looking to engage more closely with African culture, a photobooth with African props and a hair-braiding station offering traditional Rasta braids will be available. In addition, the festival will feature African teas from Kenya and Morocco, giving visitors a taste of African hospitality.
TANG’s participation in the Bürgerfest exemplifies how the African community in Germany is contributing to mutual understanding, cooperation and cultural diversity, aligning with the festival’s broader mission of fostering inclusive, cross-cultural engagement.
Femi Awoniyi
Bürgerfest im Schloss Bellevue 2024
Date: 14 September 2024
Time: 11 am – 7 pm
Location: Schloss Bellevue, Berlin
Attendance on 13 September is by invitation only, while 14 September is open to the public. However, you must book a ticket online to attend. Get a ticket to attend the festival at the following LINK
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