EAST LONDON- East London, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality is set to come alive this Sunday, 15th December as the Afrika Unite Cultural International Festival takes over the Jan Smuts Stadium. Dubbed the ‘Sunday Chill of the Year,’ the 6th annual festival promises a star-studded lineup of artists, cultural displays and an unforgettable atmosphere.
This year’s theme, ‘One United Africa‘ focuses on fostering unity among Africans amidst challenges like illegal immigration and the recent tragic deaths of children linked to chemical-laden goods at spaza shops.
Event founder Luzuko Khohli emphasized the importance of working together as Africans, saying, “We must unite with those who are here legally and build a brighter future.” Originally scheduled for September 2024, the event was postponed due to a soccer fixture but has now found its home in December, while the change brought financial and logistical challenges, Khohli assured supporters that the event is ready. “We have faced trials, but God has been with us every step of the way,” he said.
The event is supported by the Eastern Cape Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture(EC DSRAC) and Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency (ECPTA).
ECPTA Chief Executive Officer, Vuyani Dayimani highlighted the festival’s cultural and economic impact,“Events like this not only showcase our province’s rich culture but also promote sustainable tourism and community engagement.”said Dayimani. “
Provincial Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture sees festivals of this nature very key in discharging its multifaceted mandate of developing and advancing all forms of art in our Province. “We are further overjoyed that we are able to partner with Afrika Unite this year in what promises to be an epic festival and display of performance art at the Afrika Unite stage,” emphasized EC DSRAC head of communications Andile Nduna.
The festival boasts a refreshed lineup featuring talented artists like Lloyiso, Dumza Maswana, Nkosazana Daughter, Mlindo the Vocalist, Scotts Maphuma, and gospel DJ Groovie Christ and many more.
Speaking about revamped line-up, event Media Manager Sinethemba Gayiza alluded that the,“change of dates paved the way for the inclusion of artists like Semito, Lloyiso, Amapiano sensation Scotts Maphuma.”
In addition Gayiza emphasized,“We will also be having an exhibition match between Kaizer Chiefs fans led by Man-B and Orlando Pirates fans led by Qhawe”.
Amid its entertainment offerings, the Afrika Unite Festival serves as a reminder of the power of culture in uniting communities and addressing societal challenges.
Photograph: Lloyiso & Nkosazana Daughter
Photograph: supplied
12 December 2024
