This year’s Africa Day celebrations were held at the Sir Pierre Van Ryneveld High School sports grounds in Kempton Park, hosted by the group of African Heads of Diplomatic Missions accredited to the Republic of South Africa.

The event embraced the African Union’s 2025 declaration of the “Year of Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations.” The theme also aligned with South Africa’s G20 Presidency, under the banner of “Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability.” At its core, the message emphasised the need for justice and reparations for the African diaspora, including meaningful action to address the enduring legacy of slavery and colonialism.

The celebration brought together diplomatic missions, cultural performers, and citizens in a vibrant display of unity and pride. Africa Day commemorates the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (now the African Union) in 1963, and this year marked the 62nd anniversary of that historic milestone.

Guest speakers included the Ambassador of Angola, who read a message from the President of Angola; the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, H.E. Mr Salih Omar Abdu; the Dean of African Heads of Missions, H.E. Mr A. Nzapayeke; and Mr Ben Joubert, who delivered remarks on behalf of Minister Ronald Lamola.

In his address, Mr Joubert stated:

“Africa is the cradle of humankind, as much as it is the continent of the future.”

He also reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to Pan-Africanism and emphasised the importance of the G20 Presidency as a platform to champion Africa’s development agenda on the global stage.

This year’s event also welcomed participation from the Embassies of the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Cuba, Venezuela, Nicaragua, and the European Union — reflecting their connection to Africa and support for the continent’s heritage and future.

Widely regarded as Africa’s largest cultural celebration, the event showcased the continent’s extraordinary diversity through traditional music, dance, attire, and cuisine. Guests enjoyed a variety of dishes prepared by embassies and their staff, while watching lively performances that brought the spirit of Africa to life.

by Marion Kate