Africa Day will see the continent’s culture and people celebrated through more than 30 colourful events staged across Ireland later this month.
Food security will be highlighted in the programme of activities for the day, which includes family events in Dublin’s Iveagh Gardens and City Hall, Limerick.
Music by African and Irish artists, an education zone on crops and foods from Africa, an African Bazaar showcasing food, costumes and dance and a photographic exhibition will be among the events held around the country between May 16th and 30th.
Irish Aid is supporting the annual event, which is now in its fourth year.
Minister of State for Overseas Development Peter Power said the rich programme gives people the chance to celebrate the heritage and identity of Africa and the many African people living in Ireland.
“Last year over 30,000 people attended Africa Day events around the country,” he said.
“Africa Day also offers the public an opportunity to learn more about the Government’s aid programme and our work in sub-Saharan Africa.
“Ireland has been a leading global advocate in the fight against hunger since the publication of the report of the Irish Hunger Task Force in 2008.
“The eradication of hunger is a cornerstone of the Irish Aid programme and we are committed to spending 20 per cent of the overseas development budget to help achieve this.”
PA