Photos: Dunia Álvarez Palacios
By: Nuria Barbosa León
In order to emphasise unity, sovereignty, integration and African dignity, Cuba concluded its Africa Day celebrations, which took place from 15 to 30 May, with activities aimed at strengthening relations and expanding cooperation.
This was affirmed by Her Excellency Professor Rosalie Kama Niamayoua, Ambassador of the Republic of Congo in Havana and Dean of the African Diplomatic Group, during a political and cultural gala attended by representatives of the diplomatic corps from Africa.
In the presence of Salvador Valdés Mesa (Member of the Political Bureau and Vice President of the Republic), Inés María Chapman Waugh (Vice Prime Minister), and other leaders from the Party and Government, the Congolese diplomat explained that Africa Day commemorates the establishment of the African Union on 25 May 2002. This followed the Organisation of African Unity, which was founded on the same date in 1963.
'This is a time for celebration, but also for reflection on our collective past, our struggles, our progress and our future,' said the diplomat, acknowledging that Africa has not yet realised its ambitions, but is moving in the right direction with programmes for agricultural development, the implementation of a free trade zone and institutional reforms to improve governance.
Today, the continent is struggling to manage its natural resources independently, and there is a lack of political will to give Africans a voice in shaping the global order and introducing reforms to multilateral organisations.
Therefore, Africa must decide its own destiny and make it happen, warned the Congolese ambassador, adding: 'Africa is a blessed continent, with sunlight all year round, a young population, and abundant raw materials and minerals. Its future vision is based on science, biotechnology, and technological innovation.'
Regarding relations with Cuba, she stated that African countries would continue to reject the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed by the United States, describing it as a cruel policy that causes suffering to the Cuban people.
She noted that the celebration included a variety of activities allowing interaction with lawmakers, different ministries and cultural and sports institutions.
The closing gala featured a showcase of African culinary culture, as well as traditional songs and dances. Participants also engaged in conversations in multiple languages and exchanged warm embraces and fraternal messages.
On 25 May, a football match was held between Caribbean and African players, highlighting the friendship between the two regions and the solidarity of their peoples.
