African ambassadors pledge support as first-ever Africa Day set to hold in China

African ambassadors in China have pledged their support for and participation in the first-ever Africa Day celebration, organised by the diaspora.

The event, slated for 23 May, is a celebration of Africa by Africans.

In a press statement issued by the Centre for China-Africa Discourse Studies (CECADS), corporate bodies across the continent were called upon to embrace the wholly African project, which aims to unite the continent, recognise the role of the diaspora, and deepen continental ties between Africa and China.

The Centre, which is behind the project, further stated that the gathering is also intended to “strengthen ties between the African diaspora and their diplomatic representatives in China and foster inclusive and sustainable Africa-China relations through dialogue and sustainable partnerships.”

While announcing the support of the envoys, CECADS disclosed that their dean and Cameroon’s ambassador to China, Ambassador Martin Mpana, will deliver the plenary address at the event.

Queen Modestus, CECADS’s Communications Director, who signed the statement, noted that the gathering will “highlight the achievements and potential of the African diaspora in China and seek greater platforms for African youth in China to play an active role in shaping the future of Africa-China relations.”

The Centre acknowledged the transnational impacts of corporate giants across Africa while commending Zenith Bank of Nigeria for its significant role in connecting the African diaspora.

Modestus called on the bank to leverage the Africa Day celebration, as the official banker/partner, to “strengthen brand loyalty among Africa’s high-value customers, position itself as the preferred bank for the African community in China and beyond, and engage directly with diplomats, business leaders, and influencers who shape banking decisions.”

The national carrier of an East African country is also set to become the official airline of the event, which will take place at the Marriott Hotel in Beijing.

There will also be a high-level panel discussion and a forum for African community leaders in China.

Expected at the forum are Ilias Laroussi, Executive Director of Beijing Eco-Hub; Affizou Mohammed Izzidhine, President of Yiwu African Association; IT guru Louis Idehen, CEO of SMSICT Solutions; among others.

The host will be Dr Joseph Olivier Mendo’o, head of the African Youth Delegation in China and one of the 100 Most Influential People of African Descent (2023).

There will also be cultural performances by some of Africa’s best artistes in China, including Black Pearl of China (Maliya), alongside African cuisine, as promised by the organisers.

According to CECADS, “this event is primed to be annual, and as the maiden edition, we cannot afford to be anything less than compelling. We need the entire African media and continent behind us to make this celebration not only a reference point but the yardstick for Africans thinking of celebrating Africa around the world.

“Africa is rising—our Africa. If we do not celebrate it, nobody will.”

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