On May 25th, the Africa Consortium was launched at the Laboudonnais Waterfront Hotel in Port-Louis, Mauritius. This initiative, led by the Academy of Design and Innovation (ADI), ZeeArts Gallery, the National Computer Board, the African Leadership College, and the Nelson Mandela Centre for African Culture Trust Fund, aims to celebrate and promote African arts and culture in Mauritius.
During his speech, the Minister of Industrial Development, SMEs and Cooperatives, Mr. Soomilduth Bholah, highlighted the significance of the event. He stated, “This event is of great importance as it emphasizes the contribution of African culture, design, and arts. The Africa Day is a perfect opportunity for us to reflect on solidarity and unity among African states, enabling us to build the Africa that we desire.”
Promoting art is an integral part of the government’s agenda, and they are committed to fulfilling this obligation. Considerable resources have been mobilized for this platform, affirming the resilience, talent, and hard work of the creative individuals. The government acknowledges the challenge to create an environment in which arts, culture, and heritage can flourish.
During her speech, Zaahirah Muthy, the Managing Director of ZeeArts Gallery, expressed the power of African arts. She stated, “African arts are incredibly powerful, renowned for their richness, diversity, authenticity, and profound cultural and spiritual expression. They reflect the deep-rooted traditions, histories, beliefs, and identities of African people. African arts have the ability to evoke emotions, challenge perceptions, and provoke critical thinking.”
Muthy also introduced the second edition of Africa Speaks 54, a project nurtured and developed in collaboration with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce during the Global Business Africa Forum at the Dubai Expo. This exhibition provides a remarkable platform for discovering and investing in the local talent and creativity of Africa.
Emmanuel d’Ofrray, the Executive Director of Creative Seychelles Agency, shared his impressions of the event, stating, “I am deeply impressed by the organization, speakers, and the heartfelt dedication demonstrated throughout the activities. What truly amazed me was the genuine commitment expressed by everyone involved. We all share a common desire to witness real progress for the African continent.”
