“I am delighted to be here, to see for myself and attest to the great visionary achievements of the people of UAE and, to the way you have successfully hosted this once in lifetime experience of Expo 2020 Dubai.”
These are the opening remarks of the African Union Commission Deputy Chairperson, Her Excellency (HE), Dr. Monique Nsanzabaganwa, as the continent displayed wealth of culture and vision, while celebrating its Expo 2020 Dubai, Honour Day
Accompanied by an ensamble of diverse creative artists displaying Africa’s welath in culture and heritage, representing all corners of the continent, H.E. Dr. Nsanzabaganwa detailed the continental vision, Agenda 2063, as the world listened with peaked interest.
“I am also here to use this amazing platform to let the world know of the great opportunities that Africa offers. A continent of 1.3 billion plus people, who all have agreed that the ‘Africa We Want’, is possible if we move together in unity” remakred the Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission.
Her Excellency was received by Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and Director General, Expo 2020 Dubai, and His Excellency Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of State, at the flag raising ceremony at the Stage of Nations, in Al Wasl Plaza.
In his remarks, HE Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan said: “The African Union’s participation at Expo 2020 Dubai has brought forth a significant opportunity for visitors to discover Africa’s history, culture, and vision, as well as its efforts to empower its citizens and realise its true potential as a crucial change-maker in the world.
“We in the UAE are proud to have been an active partner on the African continent throughout our 50-year history, with an unwavering commitment to its development and prosperity. As we celebrate the African Union’s strong representation at Expo 2020 Dubai, we look forward to witnessing the rise of new initiatives and collaborative efforts that will lead to the progress and wellbeing of our people” concluded the UAE Minister of State.
As the African Union continues to celebrate its 20th anniversary, HE Dr. Nsanzabaganwa remarked that “We are a united people whose history is far reaching and life changing, embracing our stories - the ugly and the good, the nostalgic and the awe inspiring,”
“Reflecting back on two successful decades of implementing programmes that have continued to change the lives of our brothers and sisters, changing the course of our continent towards that of a shared prosperity, peace and sustainability.”
Her Excellency, the Deputy Chairperson concluded by saying “For all the unity we display, we are certainly going to continue making change that matters, touching lives and creating tangible solutions that our people are at the heart of.”
The official addresses and flag raising ceremony was followed by a poetry performance ‘From East to West’, from Adelle Onyango, a Kenyan media personality, poet and activist, recognised for her efforts to empower African women and youth. Onyango was flanked by Chief Moomen, a poet, playwright and curator of theatrical spectacles from Ghana.
Pianist Donovan Rossouw from Cape Town then performed his own piece, before Mr Adam, a guitarist from Niger, played a Tuareg song.
Kina Ku Moxi, three percussionists and five dancers from Angola, concluded the show with captivating and energetic traditional dance, chants and singing.
This evening, the Jubilee Stage will come alive from 19:00pm (local time), with entertainment from across the continent, a celebration of culture and heritage, to give a taste and feel of creative Africa.
Performers include globally recognised stars such as Mafikizolo, Fally Ipupa and Ayra Starr. This morning’s pianist Doovan Rossouw will again take to the stage, with Moroccan performer Cheikh Oueld Labied.
There will also be poetry and spoken word from Spokenpriestess and Versatile to round off the evening.
The African Union Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai is located in the Opportunity District and tells the story of the organisation, from the vision of the founding fathers onwards. It shows an Africa that is serious about empowering and creating opportunities for its citizens and the world, and is a proud demonstration of the heritage, culture, and vision of the continent.
The public, media and all other interested parties can keep up-to-date with the latest out of Dubai as well as get all the necessary information surrounding the AU activities or events by visiting the official AU at Expo 2020 website: https://africaexpo2020dubai.au.int/en
For further information please contact:
Mr. Lunga Kupiso, Public Relations & Media Officer - AU at Expo 2020 | Information and Communication Directorate | African Union Commission Tel: +251 115 517 700 | E-mail: auexpomedia@africa-union.org | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Ms. Faith Adhiambo, Media & Communications Coordinator - AU at Expo 2020 | Information and Communication Directorate | African Union Commission Tel: +251 115 517 700 | E-mail: ochiengj@african-union.org | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Information and Communication Directorate, African Union Commission I E-mail: DIC@africa-union.org Web: au.int | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | Follow Us: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
