An initiative aimed at raising public awareness regarding African cultural diversity and fostering coexistence among the various communities within the municipality. From June 4 to 6, Durango will host a celebration featuring a diverse program spanning three key areas: education, community engagement, and socio-cultural activities.
The town’s educational institutions will actively participate in activities designed to introduce students to African culture and the realities of the African diaspora. Highlights among these offerings include film screenings featuring both short and feature-length films, accompanied by presentations from the directors themselves, thereby allowing students to delve deeper into the narratives and experiences of various African nations.
In the community sphere, the general public will have the opportunity to enjoy screenings taking place at the Zugaza Cinema on Thursday, June 4. The evening begins at 7:00 PM with an opening ceremony and a screening of the short film Les Enfants de la Diaspora, featuring a virtual introduction by director Sabrina Onana, followed by Los Cayucos de Kayar, presented in person by director Thimbo Samb. The day will conclude with a discussion panel held from 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM, offering an in-depth exploration of the themes addressed in the films.
In the socio-cultural realm, Durango will host a series of activities throughout the weekend at Andra Mari and Landako Gunea. On Friday, June 5, at 8:30 PM, concerts will be held featuring Jeffrey Nku (Ghana), performing contemporary Christian and worship music, and Weblezz Owen (Nigeria), performing Afrobeat R&B from Benin. On Saturday, June 6, at Andra Mari, the day will commence at 11:45 AM with a Batukada percussion performance, followed by a dance performance by the Senegalese group MLOMP and a formal declaration by Durango’s African associations. At 1:00 PM, the group will give a second performance, followed by a street procession—accompanied by the Batukada ensemble—leading to Landako. The program will continue with a community meal and a DJ set by DJ Gaby. The celebration will conclude at Andra Mari at 8:30 PM with a Senegalese dance performance by Mame Cheikh (SABAR).
Jesica Ruiz, Councilor for Social Welfare and Immigration, highlighted the importance of these activities in fostering coexistence and respect for cultural diversity. “Africa Day allows us to connect with other cultures, recognize their contributions to the municipality, and gain a better understanding of their realities. It serves as a space to learn, enjoy, and strengthen social cohesion,” she noted. The Councilor also underscored the essential role played by all the associations that collaborated in the organization, emphasizing that their joint efforts make it possible to offer a comprehensive, inclusive, and educational program that benefits the entire community.
For her part, Arantza Barrenetxea, Councilor for Events, highlighted the importance of cultural programming as a driving force for enlivening municipal life and bringing diversity closer to the general public. “These activities not only provide an opportunity to enjoy music, dance, and workshops, but they also strengthen the bonds between different communities and encourage the active participation of all residents of Durango,” Barrenetxea stated. Furthermore, she emphasized the indispensable collaboration of the participating associations, noting that their engagement and collective effort made it possible to offer a high-quality, inclusive, and engaging program for people of all ages.
Source: elcorreo
