Members of the Irish African community recently launch Africa Day 2025 at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham in Dublin.
Africa Day returns to Ireland with a series of events to be held nationwide, including a vibrant celebration in Laois which will be held on Sunday, May 18.
Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Neale Richmond TD, was joined for the launch by dancer, Lapree Lala; designer, Florence Olufemi-Ojo; presenter of the Black and Irish Podcast, Leon Diop; and Discovery Gospel Choir singer, Michael Chanda.
Africa Day is the annual commemoration of the foundation of the African Union, which celebrates the people and culture of African countries.
In Ireland, the day will be celebrated with events taking place in towns and cities across the country alongside the flagship Dublin event.
Celebrations will include a cultural festival showcasing African music, dance, food, fashion, and art, bringing communities together to celebrate the rich cultures of the African continent.
The events will feature performances by local artists, workshops, and family-friendly activities designed to promote cultural awareness and integration.
Organised by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, tens of thousands of people are expected to attend events all over the country where they will be entertained by over 40 musical acts, dancers and cultural groups representing countries across Africa.
All 31 Local Authorities across Ireland will host cultural, artistic, and family-friendly events around the country. These will include contemporary African-Irish culture events, as well as family fun days, fashion, art, film, music, dance, and food events, which will take place in every county across Ireland.
Speaking at the launch, Minister Richmond said: “I am honoured to help launch this fantastic event that celebrates the rich cultures of the African continent.
“Ireland has growing trade, political and cultural links across the continent of Africa.
“There is also a large Irish-African community, who are making significant contributions to our society and economy in towns and villages throughout Ireland.
“This day is an opportunity to promote those links and learn more about African cultures.”
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