Africa Day Festival draws diverse mix of cultures

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GEORGE NEWS - An Africa Day Festival, in celebration of Africa Day on Sunday 25 May, brought a vibrant mix of cultures to George.

International guests from Hong Kong and Australia attended, while George Mayco members Melvin Roelfse and Chantell Kyd also paid a visit.

Energy levels ran high at a live show with a variety of music, dances and interesting discussions. Festival committee member Hein Scheepers noted the diverse audience; about 70% from Rastafari communities and 30% from other groups. "Our core attendance comes from Rastafari communities, but we welcomed many others, camping here and joining the celebrations," Scheepers said.

He said the event highlighted George's commitment to fostering inclusivity and cultural pride, drawing both local and global visitors to celebrate Africa's rich heritage together.

PHOTO GALLERY - Africa Day Festival at Witfontein Nature Reserve

The music line-up consisted of jazz, hip-hop, Afrobeat and reggae dancehall. An interactive panel discussion with Lorryn Williams, Malaka Grant, Yonela Msongelwa, Scheepers himself and Bronwyn February (moderator) engaged the audience.

Ridley Rothman, Jason Lottering and John Rademeyer of Ladismith with a table full of goodies.

Jerome Jantjies (Ladismith), Fire Gad Koos (Oudtshoorn) and Jean Claude Cupido (Ladismith) relax at the venue.

Caira (16), Kelsi (6), Mijean (13) and their mother, Charné Vilander, and baby brother Yahkai (three months). The Vilanders travelled from Genadendal to share in the Africa Day festivities.