The Minister for Tourism and Culture Alain St.Ange has said that Seychelles as a nation should be proud of her African historical links
This is just as he said that FetAfrik, the celebration of Africa Day in Seychelles is an important event for the islands.
St.Ange said this while answering questions on the famous and popular radio programme Lanbyans Tropikal, hosted by Lindy Servina.
The Minister was accompanied by the Principal Secretary for Culture Benjamine Rose and respected and popular local artist Stephen Eliza, whose stage name is Elijah.
St.Ange who holds the culture portfolio alongside tourism said that as a nation Seychelles needed to be proud of each of the five branches making the Seychellois nation that it is today.
“For the Seychellois to better appreciate this FetAfrik event the islands as a whole need to learn about the rich cultures of Africa, and this the FetAfrik 2016 celebrations are doing by bringing in cultural groups from mainland Africa to take part in the upcoming FetAfrik inclusive of professional guests speakers who will be sharing their vast knowledge with us,” Minister St.Ange said.
“Often we hear people say they are not Africans, but I say to you that you do not have to be born in Africa to be considered an African, but you become an African with Africa in born in you. When you value your link with the African continent this builds in you the characteristics of an African” the Minister added .
He added that FetAfrik like other events organised in Seychelles, is for the people of Seychelles. Minister, calling on members of the public to take part in the event and give it the recognition and value that it deserves.
FetAfrik will this year be held from May 22-28 and activities will vary from gala dinners, musical shows, public lecture and workshops.
The official ceremony will be held at the International Conference Centre of Seychelles in Victoria on May 25, which will coincide with the Africa Day and the theme for this Africa Day celebrations is Human rights with a particular focus on the rights of women.
The Principal Secretary for Culture, Miss Benjamine Rose on her part spoke on the official ceremony ,which she stated would be an event where members of the public can attend, adding that those wishing to grace the opening with their presence can do so by getting free tickets at the National Cultural Centre.
On his part, Elijah gave details of the international show on May 28 at the mini stadium in Victoria, with tickets costing only R100.
Top African musicians, who have made their mark in the world such as Radio & Weasel from Uganda, and Prophecy from Mauritius will be performing alongside our local stars at this year’s musical show
