Global Solidarity Network Launches Africa Day Events Promoting Solidarity, Unity
The multi-faceted program from May 15-28 included journalism training, cultural festivals, youth workshops and honoring prominent voices in African affairs.
CAIRO, Egypt-- The Global Solidarity Network recently launched a series of initiatives and events in Egypt to celebrate Africa Day and promote solidarity among African nations and peoples, writes Winston Mwale.
The multi-faceted program from May 15-28 included journalism training, cultural festivals, youth workshops and honoring prominent voices in African affairs.
It marked the anniversary of the launch of the African Union, formerly the Organization of African Unity.
"The network's celebrations for Africa Day revive African solidarity," said Hassan Ghazaly, founder of the Global Solidarity Network.
"The world is in dire need of the concept of solidarity."
Highlighting the role of media, the AfroMedia Initiative organized a 3-day training course named after the late broadcaster Hazem Abdel Wahab for African journalists and media professionals.
It featured expert instructors and concluded by honoring several influential figures in African journalism and culture.
The Nile Valley Peoples' Solidarity Initiative held a "Peaceful Coexistence and Combating Hate Speech" workshop and celebration May 23-25 at the historic Sultan Qaytbay Complex in Cairo.
The event brought together around 150 young people for discussions, handicrafts, art exhibitions and a concert under the "Nile Valley Culture" theme.
The network's Nasser Youth Movement published articles from May 15-25 ahead of Africa Day on its website portal. It also encouraged university students of African languages to contribute articles and translations.
Ghazaly emphasized the Global Solidarity Network's commitment to commemorating African unity through its various initiatives tailored to global, continental, regional and local levels.
"We were keen to honor those with diligent efforts and influential works in African affairs, recognizing their contributions...and encouraging them to continue their societal, academic and developmental journey," he said.
The honorees included the late broadcaster Abdel Wahab's family, African affairs researchers, journalists spotlighting development in Sudan and a training center assisting refugees' integration in Egypt.