During the African Diaspora Festival held in Dakar, researchers, artists, and academics launched a significant initiative to preserve Africa’s collective memory.
The festival was organized by the Baobab Development Group in collaboration with “Wa Afrika” and Douta Seck Cultural House.
On December 28, 2024, a panel titled “Diaspora and African Identities” focused on the idea of uniting Africa and its diaspora. Organizational Consultant Vieux Diagne emphasized the need for communities in the African diaspora to come together.
African-American literature scholar Dr. Koko Zauditu Sélassié pointed out that these connections could be strengthened through language, stressing the importance of preserving Africa’s ancestral memory. Retired educator Ousmane Ba stated that Africa’s liberation could only be achieved through education and argued that the educational curriculum must be decolonized.
Historian Buuba Diop from Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar highlighted the need to strengthen cultural connections across the continent, emphasizing the importance of a cultural network that spans all corners of Africa.
The festival went beyond idea exchange to feature artistic performances. The Assico-Family group, composed of young people from Medina, showcased works reflecting African values, while both Senegalese and international artists contributed.
As part of the tradition of celebrating African culture and the diaspora, this event aimed to uphold the continent’s identities and heritage.
