Published by the government of Zimbabwe
Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
8 July 2009
Algiers — Algeria on Sunday burst with African pride at the opening of the second Pan-African Festival, a showcase of Africa's rich and diverse cultural heritage.
A parade kicked off in the downtown of the capital Algiers right into the centre then to Parliament building where heads of delegations from the 53 African states were gathered to witness the procession.
In alphabetical order, dancers and performing artists from each country accompanied by haulage trucks decorated with different artworks added colour to the event amid pomp and revelry.
Although Zimbabwe was the last country to parade, the atmosphere felt a lot like the hometown Harare as the crowds cheered on the group at seeing the colourful flags hoisted high.
At least 60 artists from Zimbabwean are taking part in the festival whose theme is: African Cultural Renaissance seeks to bring together Africans through culture.
Among the groups are dub poet Albert Nyathi, filmmaker Tsitsi Dangarembga, theatre director Patience Tawenga, jazz diva Rute Mbangwa, arts writer Pathisa Nyathi, actor Tafadzwa Muzondo and Bulawayo based dance troupe Hlosini to mention a few.
The festival which runs until July 25 coincided with Algeria's 47th independence anniversary on July 5 and what a celebration it was.
A fireworks display illuminated the clear skies on the independence eve attracting huge crowds into the streets of Algiers.
Deputy Minister of Education, Sport, Arts and Culture Lazarus Dokora said he was happy with the concept and that Africa would continue supporting the event.
"The concept is good though
we are yet to decide whether the festival should be held once in every two years, five years or more," he said.
Dokora reiterated that apart from providing entertainment, the festival proved to all and sundry that Africa was united and shared common culture.
The Panaf is arguably the biggest arts and cultural gathering on the continent that showcases the brilliance and diversity of African cultural heritage.
The first ever Panaf was held in Algeria in 1969 and it is only being revived this year and it promises to be the mother of all festival if the talents exhibited here are anything to go by.
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