Algiers — The ongoing second edition of the Pan African Cultural Festival otherwise called Panaf 2009 Algiers, has been described by many actors and actresses as a step in the right direction towards achieving the lofty goal of African Unity.

The festival is undoubtedly the best and fastest means to bring about the true spirit of African unity and integration. It serves as an avenue for interaction and creates mutual understanding between citizens of Africa and beyond. The festival disowned all concepts and efforts meant to nationalise its activities. All programmes are geared towards promoting, developing and preserving ideals of African unity. The festival is a celebration of culture, history of Africa and its future. It celebrates and honours efforts and sacrifices made by some of the eminent Pan-Africans for the freedom and liberation of the African continent.

Some of the artists who spoke to the Daily Observer's reporter about the event, expressed their humble views in the following line of words, all touching on the need for African unity, the need to have one African identity, one people and common destiny. Bali Elmame, lead vocalist for one of the Algerian cultural groups, said the festival has exposed him to different cultures existing in Africa. "I learned from and had an interactive sessions with many traditional groups from different countries in Africa. I am greatly touched and inspired now, more than ever before, to travel to different countries in Africa on musical shows. The festival is an avenue for interaction, which creates mutual understanding and cooperation between citizens of Africa. I am beginning to love and admire the beautiful cultures of Africa," he said.

According to the young Algerian, he spent 20 years in the world of arts and music and has performed in many parts of Algeria and beyond. Hanane Lasri, lead actress and vocalist for Chorale de Orchestre Symphonic of Algeria, said " I have never participated in such a festival. The event brought together people from all the member countries of Africa, Europe and beyond. We received a lot of training for performances on stage. It's really fascinating and historic."