United in diversity, purpose and Africa

Africa Day is not merely a celebration, it is a reaffirmation of unity, heritage, and progress across the continent. On Friday, 23 May 2025, the St Alban’s College Cricket Oval in Lynnwood Glen transformed into a vibrant hub of cultural pride and international solidarity as diplomats, United Nations agencies, civil society, and government representatives come together to mark this special occasion.

The day celebrated the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) in 1963, now the African Union (AU), and payed tribute to the vision of a united, prosperous, and peaceful continent. More than six decades later, that vision continues to inspire collective action under frameworks like the AU’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Opening with reflection and purpose, the ceremony began in the College Chapel with an open prayer by the Deputy Headmaster, Kevin Leathem grounding the day in unity and hope. This was followed by warm, moving words from Maboni Mmatli, Outreach Manager at St Alban’s, who welcomed guests with the phrase:

“Today we are one – thina siyazalana. Welcome to St Alban’s.”

Maboni celebrated the essence of Africa, highlighting the continent’s resilience, the importance of education as a form of heritage, and the need to approach each other’s cultures with respect and curiosity.

Lindokuhle Ndlovu, Head Boy of St Alban’s, took to the stage to introduce the day’s keynote speaker by reading a heartfelt and inspiring biography of Dr Naledi Pandor. His delivery set the tone for what was to come, honouring her legacy as a trailblazer in African diplomacy, a champion of education, and a voice for inclusive development and global solidarity.

In her keynote address, Dr Naledi Pandor, former South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation spoke to the vast richness and opportunity of the African continent, noting the irony that:

“while Africa is home to some of the world’s richest natural resources, it also houses many of its poorest communities.”

 She reminded us of the importance of unity in diversity, and the African Union’s role in promoting continental solidarity and growth through Agenda 2063.

 “Neglecting gender means neglecting the majority and that slows our progress,” highlighting that gender equality is not optional but fundamental to unlocking Africa’s full development potential.

Minister Pandor also paid tribute to the late Gertrude Shope, honoring her contribution to South Africa’s liberation and underlining the importance of remembering those who fought for African freedom. She described how South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle mobilized global solidarity, from activists in Chicago to Lagos, showcasing the power of international cooperation in building peace and justice.

“Global solidarity is one of our most powerful tools for achieving peace. We must care deeply about the struggles of others from Sudan to Gaza. Building a better world begins with empathy, a commitment to excellence, and a willingness to understand the realities beyond our own borders.”

During a heartfelt question and answer session with the Deputy headmaster, Minister Pandor offered personal reflections that struck a chord with the students. When asked about her source of inspiration, she spoke candidly about her parents. Her mother, a teacher who raised her children in exile, and her father, a political activist persecuted under apartheid.

The conversation further opened into a thoughtful exploration of pressing social issues, including toxic masculinity, ethical leadership, and the urgent need to decolonize education across Africa and the future of African studies in the school curriculum.

Minister Pandor reflected on a memorable lecture delivered by Prof Mahmood Mamdani in Cape Town, who has been a strong advocate for educational transformation. Drawing from his message, she reinforced the importance of representation in learning environments and the need for Africa’s stories, philosophies, and knowledge systems to be deeply embedded in formal education.

“Africa needs to be studied; our children must see themselves in the curriculum. African studies are not just important, they are essential for reclaiming our identity and shaping a confident, self-aware generation.”

The celebration spilled out into an exhibition area, where guests experienced Africa’s vibrancy firsthand. Stalls representing countries across the continent showcased cultural artefacts, clothing, and cuisine. There were traditional dances from Cameroon, and a fashion show that blended styles from across Africa, offering a stunning display of unity in diversity.

Students, including learners from LEAP Science and Maths School in Ga-Rankuwa and St Alban’s College, gathered around the UN stall, where they engaged in educational quizzes, won hampers, and received branded giveaways. The buzz around the stall reflected a genuine excitement for learning about the work of the United Nations and its connection to African development.

Around the field, a wide range of stalls offered food, crafts, and educational materials. Students not only got to taste traditional meals from various African countries but also had the opportunity to learn about other cultures through direct engagement a living example of the day’s message of mutual respect, curiosity, and cooperation.

Africa Day was a movement of people coming together in celebration, solidarity, and shared purpose. It reminded us that the strength of Africa lies not just in its natural wealth, but in its people, its heritage, and its hope for the future. As the continent continues its journey toward the goals of Agenda 2063, days like these stand as a beacon affirming the value of cooperation, education, cultural pride, and global solidarity in creating the Africa we want.