Pride and Unity are the name of the game as the Obed Mlaba
Foundation (OMF) pays tribute to continent with a new festival - the first ever
eThekwini Pride of Africa Festival takes place on March 19.
The streets of the “warmest city” in South Africa will be
awash with a kaleidoscope of colour when the carnival takes over Durban.
Floats, dance troupes and other groups will parade around the city of Durban to
the heartbeat of African drums, celebrating arts and culture not just in the
city, but the entire country and continent.
“It’s going to be a spectacle of music, dance, art and all
things creative,” says the head of the OMF, Thabiso Mandaba Mlaba.
The foundation by former Durban Mayor and the current South
African High Commissioner in the United Kingdom, His Excellency Mr Obed Mlaba,
put together the festival as a show of tolerance and unity in response to last
year’s xenophobia attacks.
“We are facing one of the most difficult and challenging
times in post-democratic South Africa, with tension within us as South Africans
and also with our fellow Africans. This festival will serve as a uniting force
for us all. As someone who has dedicated his life to serving the people, His Excellency
Mr. Obed Mlaba believes this platform will provide just that,” adds Ms. Mlaba.
The Carnival commences at Albert Park from 11h00 on March 19
and the day of celebration finishes off at the New Beach. The fun will continue
at the Moses Mabhida People’s Park with a musical spectacular featuring some of
the best acts Africa has to offer.
Five-star Mzansi talent such as Mafikizolo, Mbongeni Ngema,
Thandiswa Mazwai, Thokozani Langa, Shwi NoMtekhala Thobekile Mkhwanazi and
Dream Team will share the stage with continental giants Solomon Willy
(Nigeria), Unity Band (Mozambique) and Hubert & Band (DRC). Others on the
bill include DJ Wobbly, DJ Menace real name - Ighsaan Osman, DJ Cndo, DJ
Happygirl, J Ross, Top Virus and a host of others.
Tickets R65 general and R300 for VIP available at
Computicket.
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