Cultural diversity in display as Jozi celebrates Africa Day

29 May 2017

 

Yeoville was transformed into a kaleidoscope of colour on Saturday May 27 as South Africans and their counterparts from other African countries thronged the streets of the cosmopolitan and vibrant suburb in the City of Johannesburg’s Region F to showcase their various cultures in celebration of the founding of the Organisation for African Unity (OAU) – the forerunner to the present-day African Union (AU).

 

This was one of a number of events the City of Johannesburg was involved in to mark the 54th anniversary of Africa Day.

The Yeoville Main Park, where revellers started converging since early in the morning, was a beehive of activity throughout the day.

The street carnival was led by Gauteng Premier David Makhura and members of his executive.

Premier Makhura told revellers they were a symbol of unity and should show the world that it was possible to share the city. He called on all Africans in Johannesburg to act against criminals regardless of who they were.

Mbongiseni Masuku of the City of Johannesburg’s Transport Department said it was an honour to be part of the day’s activities as they showcased “the beauty of Africa and the cultural diversity found in the city”.

The department used the opportunity to showcase its open street project, which gives residents free movement.

“Today, as we celebrate Africa Day with the people of Johannesburg, we are also opening our roads to pedestrians to enjoy the free space without the congestion of cars.

“People should share the road because our streets are built for everyone, including cyclists and pedestrians. We decided to be part of this festival to remind people of the work done by the City,” said Masuku.

Yeoville resident Mathabo Tsietsie said she was happy the City was part of the festivities as it allowed her to interact with its officials.

“It’s important that representatives of City entities are here as it will allow me to ask questions regarding the litter in front of my yard," Tsotesti said while dancing to a maskandi song.

Majesty Mnyandu of the United Proactive Artists said the event would help Africans living in Yeoville to understand their area was Johannesburg’s cultural melting pot.

“Yeoville is the only suburb in South Africa that is home to all nationalities of Africa. This is truly a rainbow community and its cultures enrich our lives. This festival today, which the City always supports, proves we are one nation with different cultures,” said Mnyandu.

The community of Yeoville has been staging colourful Africa Day festivities for the past 13 years.