Happy Africa Day!

Today is Africa Day 2020.

Africans around the world are celebrating the strides of African countries since 1963 when the leaders of 32 independent African states signed a founding charter for what would become the foundation of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) the precursor to the African Union (AU). Today, Ghana, The Gambia, Guinea, Namibia, Zambia, Mali, Mauritania, Lesotho and Zimbabwe, celebrate this day as a national holiday.

“Freed from the will of European capitals, they have sought their own governance paths and political directions and built national identities. Many of these countries have worked hard to develop functioning economies and political systems that prioritize the needs of their own citizens, rather than distant consumers.” - Kofi Annan

Africa Day has now become a day where many different cultures of people from all African backgrounds to come together to celebrate the diversity of Africa. While it remains important to ask critical questions of our leaders, our development and our future, we nevertheless celebrate our continent's beauty.

Check out how we are celebrating Africa Day!

Despite the COVID-19 epidemic and lockdowns throughout the continent, you can also find ways to celebrate Africa day in the comfort of your home. Share and tag #africamatters in some of your Africa day inspired photos and/or dance videos.

If you are also looking to hear from your favourite African artists check out the two-hour Africa Day Benefit Concert today! Organised by ViacomCBS Networks Africa and YouTube, and partnering with Idris Elba, this two-hour event features the biggest names on the African music scene. See more here!

You can also join us in celebrating Africa during our #56daysofAfrica Campaign.

We will be hosting our #56daysofAfrica campaign, where we will explore and highlight the uniqueness and beauty of each nation within our beloved continent.

Make sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook to find out more information about each country in Africa.

We ask that you share your personal experiences of the continent with us during the next 8 weeks.

We wish you a fantastic Africa Day!