The Mfuleni library staff were full of smiles as they marked Africa Day alongside a hordes of community members last Wednesday afternoon.
The African Union’s (AU) theme for this year was “Strengthening resilience in nutrition and food security on the African continent”.
Each year, the AU commemorates International Africa Day on May 25.
At Mfuleni library, attendees were reminded of the country’s relationship with the continent from which it was largely cut off from other African countries during the apartheid era.
Senior librarian Nolubabalo Memani said the library was proud to celebrate the day with library users. She said people should know why the theme is about nutrition and urged them to live a healthy lifestyle by eating organic foods. She also reminded them of the threat to food security on the continent, especially during the pandemic.
“This is a day of celebration with not too many speeches. But we have to remind people of who they are and where they are from. The day is a special day for the continent. We are a continent that has not much food. We ought to use our land and preserve our food. That is the reason we are today celebrating the day in line with the African Union theme. I am (glad) that people came so we can learn from each other,” she said.
She added they also used the opportunity to showcase Africa’s talent through the arts, culture, heritage, innovation and entrepreneurship, while at the same time making available the space for networking among the youths and invited stakeholders.
“We have farmers, artists and other members from other libraries. The purpose is to give a platform for people to network and learn. That is part of us a library. We are delighted that artists from different backgrounds are with us,” she said.
Before the dance and music took over, one speaker Nomalanga Ruiters, who is a well unknown farmer and entrepreneur in the area advised the audience how to farm and fight poverty.
Ms Ruiters discouraged people from buying food from the retailers when they could plant their own. She even showed them how to make soap using plants.
“We should use our own little space to plant and we can even use buckets, tyres, tins and many other utensils. Let’s eat 100 percent organic foods” she said.
After she spoke, the party started. Local artists took over the stage and guests in traditional African attires took to the stage to dance and enjoy the music.