Saluting the spirit of Africa

The Commonwealth Secretariat’s annual ‘Africa Night’ celebrations will take place on 9 November 2007.

This fixture has a reputed history of raising awareness and funds to support charities in the Commonwealth. This year the organising committee says: “We are confident that the presence of distinguished guests, a wholesome programme and entertainment will ensure a successful evening.”

The proceeds will be donated to a selected charity in Africa -- to be announced during the event -- that works towards empowering women against various forms of abuse. Proceeds from the African Nights in previous years have been donated towards girls’ education in the Caribbean and Africa.  

Over a dozen African countries are valued members of the Commonwealth family. The Secretariat and other Commonwealth organisations have implemented a number of programmes in the continent to enhance the twin goals of democracy and development.

As part of the evening’s events the staff at the Secretariat will honour the ‘African Night’ patron, Florence Mugasha, Deputy Secretary-General of the Commonwealth. In addition, the Secretariat’s staff will also recognise the important socio-economic development work that female African High Commissioners, based in London, are doing for the Commonwealth and Africa in particular.

Members of the diplomatic core will be present at the celebrations. Guests will be treated to African traditional dances and African food.

Africa Night will be held in Quadrant House, Pall Mall, London, on Friday 9 November 2007 from 6pm till 2am.