Cork County Council Announces Vibrant Africa Day Programme for May 2025

Cork County Council has unveiled a diverse programme of events to celebrate Africa Day 2025, with free activities planned across the county in the week leading up to Sunday, 25th May. The celebration will showcase African culture through concerts, performances and interactive workshops at various libraries and theatres throughout Cork.

Africa Day, which commemorates the foundation of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963, is an annual worldwide celebration of the people, cultures and potential of the African continent.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Joe Carroll, highlighted the significance of the celebration, stating:

"Africa Day is an opportunity for everyone to celebrate and participate in the diverse range of cultures from Africa. All 31 Local Authorities are taking part in the day, reflecting the contribution of culture and creativity from African countries across Ireland."

The programme begins on Saturday, 17th May, with AHA Storytellers performing at Carrigaline Library from 2.00pm to 4.00pm. The nine-member troupe from Carlow, led by Jolly O'Rock, will present African culture and folklore through music, dance and storytelling in an interactive format. No booking is required for this free event.

On Tuesday, 20th May, musician Kiruu will perform a free concert at 8.00pm in Briery Gap, Macroom. Kiruu's musical style blends influences from his mixed cultural background of Ireland, the Mediterranean and East Africa, incorporating East African Rumba, Afro-beat, Bembe and the Swahili language. While the concert is free, booking is advised through the Briery Gap website.

Patrick from African Drumming Ireland will conduct workshops at Mitchelstown Library on Thursday, 22nd May and Newmarket Library on Friday, 23rd May, both at 3pm. Due to limited spaces, booking is recommended for these popular free sessions. Patrick will also facilitate workshops in schools across North Cork.

The national Africa Day programme was launched by Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Neale Richmond TD, who 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."

Africa Day is supported by Irish Aid at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, which has hosted celebrations since 2006. This year marks the first time all 31 Local Authorities across Ireland will host cultural and family-friendly events as part of the celebration.

For a complete listing of Africa Day events nationwide, visit www.AfricaDay.ie.