Africa

Africa Day Celebration 2024 Vienna: Burkina Faso Showcases Artistic Performances and Local Crafts

A Celebration of African Culture and Heritage

June 11th, 2024
Snejana Melnic, News from Berlin
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The Embassy and Permanent Mission of Burkina Faso in Vienna participated in the Africa Day celebration at the Vienna International Centre, joining other African Diplomatic Missions in an event organized by the African Group.

Held under the African Union’s annual theme, “The Year of Education: Educating a 21st Century African”, the event featured an opening ceremony, African food tastings, and musical performances. The opening ceremony included speeches and a video message from Ambassador Mohammed Belhocine, Commissioner of the African Union for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation, and Ambassador Philbert Abaka Johnson, Permanent Representative of Ghana and President of the African Group Vienna. They emphasized the vital role of education in addressing Africa’s development needs in line with environmental and sustainability standards.

The Embassy of Burkina Faso actively participated in the event, offering tastings of traditional Burkinabe dishes such as fonio and tô, along with natural juices made from bissap (Hibiscus) and ginger. Additionally, an exhibition of Burkinabe products showcased Shea butter and its derivatives, including soaps, ointments, and balms.

Artistic performances were a highlight of the celebration, with traditional African music resonating through the Vienna International Centre. Four African countries—Algeria, Burkina Faso, Kenya, and Morocco—contributed to the vibrant musical showcase. Burkina Faso's remarkable performance was delivered by the group led by the renowned Burkinabè balafonist and musician, Mamadou Diabate.

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News from Berlin