Africa Day – 25 May 2024

May is celebrated as Africa Month, commemorating the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) in 1963. The OAU, now succeeded by the African Union, alongside all countries on the continent and members of the African diaspora, observes Africa Day annually on 25 May and throughout Africa Month. Africa Month also aims to enhance appreciation and demand for arts and culture goods and services, fostering competitive markets for trade among African countries. The African Union recognizes that sports, arts, culture, and heritage play a crucial role in Africa’s socio-economic development and integration.

South African cities, including Durban, will host ‘Africa Day 2024’ celebrations featuring African food stalls, spice stalls, handmade shoes, hat and bag stalls, open-mic sessions, and performances from artists across the continent. This year marks the 10th edition of Africa Month, coinciding with South Africa’s celebration of 30 years of democracy. The year-long program, “Celebration of 30 Years of Democracy in South Africa,” reflects on the government’s progress in improving the lives of its citizens since 1994. Various South African government departments, notably the Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture, will host several events to celebrate Africa Day.

Additionally, UNISA’s Thabo Mbeki African School of Public and International Affairs will host the 14th Annual Thabo Mbeki Africa Day Lecture on the theme “The New International Scramble for Africa and the Challenges of Unity.”