The African German Association (AGA) hosted a public presentation and fundraiser launch for the African House Berlin project on Friday (18 October) at the iconic Adlon Hotel. The ambitious project, led by Michael Williams Iyare, chairman of AGA, aims to create a cultural and business hub that will promote African interests in Germany.
The event, described by Iyare, a businessman, in his opening speech as “an important occasion with potential lasting impact”, attracted a notable audience, including African diplomats, German business executives and members of the African diaspora as well as invited guests from Nigeria.
The African House is envisioned as a multi-functional centre that will serve both Africans and Germans by fostering cultural exchange, business collaborations and integration.
The event marked a major step towards realising a visionary centre that will promote African culture and business in Germany. The beautiful ambiance of the Adlon Hotel added a sense of grandeur to the evening, as attendees expressed palpable enthusiasm for the initiative.
Key features of the proposed African House include a congress hall for meetings and events, an arts gallery, a restaurant and spaces for concerts and exhibitions. The centre will also provide practical support for Africans newly arriving in Germany, offering orientation and integration services. Additionally, the project will be a bridge for German businesses looking to invest in Africa and for African companies seeking to expand in Germany.
A library, a kindergarten and a language school are also part of the project’s plan, positioning the African House as a vibrant community centre that celebrates African culture while promoting cross-cultural dialogue and cooperation.
The fundraising campaign, launched at the event, seeks contributions from German citizens and businesses, African governments and companies as well as members of the African diaspora to bring the African House vision to life. The project’s potential to promote Africa in Germany and strengthen ties between the two partners was met with widespread support from the event’s attendees.
Femi Awoniyi
More information about AGA and the African House Berlin project at: https://www.africangermanassociation.com/