Accra, Oct. 15, GNA – Ghana will from October
15-20, host South Africa’s cultural season as part of efforts to
promote regional integration and to support efforts towards the expansion of
trade of Africa’s cultural goods and services.
This year’s cultural season, the first time
that South Africa is presenting a programme, will also mark the centenary of
Nelson Mandela and Mama Albertina Sisulu.
It would be celebrated through music, dance,
fashion and design, exhibition, craft, mural and other cultural expressions.
Ms. Maggie Makhotso Sotyu, South Africa’s
Deputy Minister of Arts and Culture, reiterated the need for promoting Africa’s
culture as serve the unifying factor.
“We have a golden thread that links us all as
brothers and sisters. It is through culture that we are able to articulate and
reflect the wishes and aspirations of the people for a united continent; let us
always remember that the ties that bind us are greater than what separates us.
“Let’s unite and celebrate our unique African
identity,’’ said Ms. Sotyu in a statement issued by the Department of Arts and
Culture.
Dr. Zimblim Iddi, Deputy Minister of Tourism,
Culture and Creative Arts, said the programme was in line with government’s
agenda to build on the strong cultural bilateral relationship.
“It is to deepen the process of Africanism
through culture,” adding that it would be a week of fun and education.
He said plans are already underway to have
Ghana week in South Africa.
Ms Sotyu is leading a delegation of South
African artists which include Berita, Chef Citron Khumalo, Zwai Bala, Mafikizolo,
Mbuso Khoza, Brenda Mtambo among many others as they showcase the country’s
artistic talents and to create an inter-cultural and inter-generational
dialogue between Ghana and South Africa.
The programme, which forms part of South
Africa’s government socio-economic agenda, will contribute in the
implementation of the African Union Charter
for African Cultural Renaissance and African Union Agenda 2063, which
both elaborates the importance of Africa’s total emancipation and development
as well as a call for the unite in Africa’s cultural diversity.
GNA