Minister launches Africa Month with music

In the year of its launch, the Africa Month campaign is set to assist in creating and crafting a new mindset and intercontinental approach to Africa and its cultures. “We Are Africa” as a theme prompted the launch to take a view and journey of Africa in one night as a means to promote understanding and unity on the continent.

“We are delighted to field continental celebrations that enable us to ignite and cement the relationships we have with the continent while also reminding us of what it truly means to be African,” said Minister of Arts and Culture, Nathi Mthethwa

Hosted by writer Kojo Baffoe and Ms Zanele Mbokazi, the Africa Month project manager, the event culminated with the revealing of an anthem, dubbed ‘We Are Africa’. The song – recorded by Ghanian artist M.anifest, South African songstress Nothende and DJ Kenzhero – showcases intercontinental connectedness, strength and unity. 

The song be available for download on the Africa Month App, which can be downloaded onto your smartphone from www.dac.gov.za/weareafrica

The night was a pan-African affair. Guests were served a fusion of food, fashion and art from Cape to Cario, and dignitaries got to learn the ‘We Are Africa’ dance and song led by Onke, the campaign’s mascot who will bring all African nations together in one dance. Invited guests included local gospel queen Rebecca Malope and Malian musician Salif Keita.

For more information, visit the Department of Arts and Culture’s website or social media.