May 25th every year marks Africa Day celebration. This is the 57th Africa Day, which was formerly African Freedom Day and African Liberation Day. The first African Day held on May 25, 1963, in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa when 32 countries formed the Organisation of Africa Unity (OAU).
The purpose of the African Union to pursue a Pan African unity while fighting colonialism and apartheid. The OAU’s original mission was to bring freedom to African countries that were still under colonial rule in the 60s, defend their sovereignty, uphold human rights and restore their dignity.
Nowadays, the African Day, which is widely celebrated by Africans all over the world, is observed as an official national holiday in countries like Ghana, Gambia, Guinea, Namibia, Zambia, Mali, Mauritania, Lesotho and Zimbabwe. Africans at home and abroad are celebrating in grand style with the display of our rich culture, delicacies and diversity.
In commemoration of this special day, one of the biggest event- Africa Day Benefit Concert At Home hosted by Idris Elba, is taking place. The concert features artists such as Adekunle Gold, Nasty C, Niniola, Reekado Banks Angelique Kidjo, Stonebwoy, Teni, Tiwa Savage, Burna Boy, AKA and many others. The concert which is streaming on MTV Base platforms aims raise funds to help in the continued fight against COVID-19 in Africa. It features special appearances that include Anthony Hamilton Falz, French Montana, Pearl Thusi, Rotimi, Sean Paul and many others.
Watch the ongoing live streaming here