Home Lifestyle In Pictures: Laois Africa Day gets the backing of Laois County Council

In Pictures: Laois Africa Day gets the backing of Laois County Council

29th May 2019

JV8A0524 — Clr. John King ( Cathaoirleach ) with members of the Adeyanju and Osumah families, pictured at the launch of Africa Day Laois 2019 at County Hall, Portlaoise. Photo: Michael Scully- no reproduction fee.

Laois County Council, together with Laois Partnership Company and Laois African Support Group, has a jam-packed programme of events to mark Africa Day from Thursday May 30 to Saturday June 1.

Africa Day is an initiative of the African Union, which celebrates African diversity and success and the cultural and economic potential of the continent.

Laois County Council, together with Laois Partnership Company & Laois African Support Group, is among a number of organisations around the country that have been supported by Irish Aid to host Africa Day events this year.

Portlaoise will be transformed by the sights, sounds and smells of Africa as we gather to celebrate Africa Day Laois.

As part of the Africa Day celebrations, Laois African Support Group and Dunamaise Art Centre, Portlaoise have come together to screen an African movie, Queen Of Katwe, the film depicts the life of Phiona Mutesi, a Ugandan girl living in a slum in Katwe.

This will take place Thursday May 30 2019 in the Dunamaise Arts Centre, Portlaoise at 6pm.

The main Africa Day Laois event is taking place in St Peter & Paul Parish Centre Portlaoise on Saturday, June 1 from 1pm to 4.30pm.

This will feature the Sounds of Africa live music by well-known African and Irish musicians such as Royal Vessel Gospel Choir, and many more together with Taste of Africa where guests will be invited to sample a variety of foods from African countries.

Africa’s rich culture will be showcased through family-friendly activities, along with music, performances, sport and educational elements.

There will also be children’s entertainment; traditional African drumming and dance workshops, African arts and crafts and much more. As always, this event is free.

In the interest of sustainability there is MINIMAL PARKING available at the Parish Centre, help reduce omissions and traffic congestion, use public transport, walk or cycle to your local Africa Day.

In addition as part of Ireland’s development programme in Africa and the Sustainable Development Goals, please bring your own reusable water bottle and keep cup.

All photos below have been taken by photographer Michael Scully.