Prof. Tulio de Oliveira at The Africa in the World Festival

Amidst the serene landscapes of Stellenbosch, The Africa in the World Festival, a prestigious annual event, brought together visionaries, innovators, and thought leaders. The festival, spanning from 12-16 September 2023, served as a hub for influential speakers and attendees, all driven by a shared purpose: to catalyze positive change and sustainable solutions for Africa and its global diaspora.

At the heart of this extraordinary event lies the vision of Dele Olojede, the festival's founder. Not only is Olojede a distinguished journalist, but he also holds the distinction of being the first African journalist to be honored with the coveted Pulitzer Prize. His deep-rooted love for humanity and his unwavering commitment to the betterment of African people serve as the driving force behind the Africa in the World Festival. It stands as a tangible embodiment of his aspiration to bring together the brightest minds, individuals dedicated to unearthing solutions that can propel African society forward.

The festival stands apart in its mission. Rather than dwelling on Africa's myriad challenges, it focuses on nurturing innovative ideas that can be not only implemented but also sustained over the long term. It's a celebration of forward-thinking and action-oriented dialogue, a platform where attendees share, learn, and become inspired.

Stellenbosch, with its rich history and unique character, may seem an unconventional choice for an African gathering. Yet, as Olojede eloquently explains, "Africa is not one place, one color, or one culture." It encompasses a multitude of experiences, including the African diaspora worldwide. Thus, Stellenbosch becomes an ideal backdrop—a tangible reminder that Africa's essence transcends geographical borders, encompassing diverse landscapes and cultures.

This year's Africa in the World Festival featured an array of influential speakers, each with a profound impact on their respective fields. Among them, Wole Soyinka, a renowned Nigerian playwright, poet, author, teacher, and political activist, took the stage. In 1986, he achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first African to receive the Nobel Prize for Literature. He dedicated his acceptance speech to the iconic Nelson Mandela.

Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, the former Executive Director of UN Women, Deputy President of South Africa, and founder of Umlambo Foundation, shared her wisdom. A prominent gender activist and advocate for universal access to education, her career has been devoted to issues of human rights, equality, and social justice.

Author, speaker, and journalist Laurie Garrett and Prof. Tulio de Oliveira, the director of the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI), discussed Covid-19 and its impacts, as well as how technological advances in Africa are positioning the continent for the future, contributing to advancements in epidemic response and research. Dr. Arturo Condo, the President of EARTH University, emphasized the importance of sustainable development and nature-positive food systems.

This festival served as a testament to the power of unity, dialogue, and the unwavering belief in the potential for positive change, proving that Africa is not just a place; it's a dynamic, ever-evolving tapestry of ideas and solutions, inspiring hope and progress for all.

News date: 2023-09-26

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