×

We've got news for you.

Register on SowetanLIVE at no cost to receive newsletters, read exclusive articles & more.
Register now

Huge gumba will mark Africa Day

THE Department of Arts and Culture has organised a an official gumba to mark the 47th Africa Day celebrations on May 25 with a variety of activities at Dries Niemandt Park in Kempton Park to celebrate the 2010 Fifa World Cup.

THE Department of Arts and Culture has organised a an official gumba to mark the 47th Africa Day celebrations on May 25 with a variety of activities at Dries Niemandt Park in Kempton Park to celebrate the 2010 Fifa World Cup.

President Jacob Zuma will deliver the keynote address at this event, which will be characterised by cultural activities and a music concert featuring artists from the African countries that have qualified for the tournament. There will also be a development soccer tournament.

Arts and Culture Minister Lulu Xingwana said: "The 47th anniversary of Africa Day is an extremely meaningful landmark for us as Africans. As a continent, Africans have demonstrated what we can achieve with collective effort and cooperation.

"The theme of this year's Africa Day, 'Promoting and Maintaining Peace in Africa through Sports', takes on a real significance given our role as hosts of the Fifa World Cup and certainly reflects the spirit of unity that defined the formation of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963.

"This day is an opportunity for us to fly the flag with pride, and as we prepare to host the world's nations and showcase Africa's hospitality, culture and sportsmanship."

Three of the six African countries that will take part in the World Cup - Cameroon, Nigeria and Ivory Coast - were present when the Organisation of Africa Unity (now known as the African Union) was formed.

The Gauteng provincial government, Ekurhuleni municipality and SABC will also be part of the Dries Niemandt Park celebrations.

The park has been upgraded to serve as a refreshment station for tourists when they land at the nearby OR Tambo International Airport for the World Cup.

It will also serve as a meeting place for soccer lovers during the tournament.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.