AfricaFest SA 2025: Uniting 33 nations in Kempton Park

AfricaFest SA 2025, one of SA’s biggest celebrations of African culture, recently brought together 850 people from 33 countries at Sir Pierre Van Ryneveld High School in Kempton Park.

The Bureau of African Heads of Missions in South Africa and MoAfrika Travel and Promotions organised the event, aiming to unite African countries by sharing cultures, traditions and history while strengthening relationships between African leaders and communities.

More than 85 embassies from African and international countries participated. Guests included representatives from the African Union (AU), the United Nations and various embassies worldwide.

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André Nzapayeke, the dean of African Heads of Missions in South Africa, said, “Through culture, we form friendships and partnerships that last.

“This event shows that when African countries stand together, we build stronger connections beyond borders.”

A highlight was the involvement of young people; over 40% of the attendees were under 18, demonstrating AfricaFest’s focus on educating and inspiring the next generation.

Learners from Sir Pierre Van Ryneveld High School delivered a powerful performance of Thabo Mbeki’s famous I am an African speech, earning applause and standing ovations from the crowd and diplomatic guests.

MJ Mangali, the school principal, described the experience as life-changing for the learners.

“Performing in front of ambassadors and visitors from across Africa has created memories that will inspire them forever,” said Mangali.

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The event featured a full day of cultural activities, including traditional dances from Eswatini, Guinea and Cameroon; live music showcasing Africa’s rich sounds; fashion shows highlighting traditional clothing and delicious food from across the continent.

AfricaFest SA 2025 also aligned with the AU’s 2025 theme, The Year of Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations. Many performances and speeches emphasised unity, healing and standing together as African people.

Beyond celebrating culture, the event supported local business growth. Through the Business Village, entrepreneurs met embassy trade representatives to explore trade, investment and partnership opportunities.

Guests included Ben Joubert, the acting chief director at SA’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation, who spoke on the value of cultural diplomacy and strengthening ties with African countries.

One of AfricaFest SA’s key goals was inclusivity and accessibility, which is why entrance was free. This allowed people from diverse Johannesburg and Gauteng communities to gather and enjoy the festivities.

“Our mission has always been to celebrate African culture in a way open to everyone,” said Musakalu Kabamba, the programme director of AfricaFest SA.

“Seeing so many people from different backgrounds enjoying the event shows how culture brings us closer.”

The event was supported by sponsors like Nedbank and Mukuru, whose backing ensured excellent entertainment and kept the festival free to the public. Their support also helps secure AfricaFest SA’s future.

Following the success of AfricaFest SA 2025, organisers plan future events.

They aim to expand AfricaFest into a year-round celebration, encouraging greater participation from more African countries and hosting additional events across SA.
“When we celebrate Africa’s cultures, we are not just having fun, we are building the future of our continent,” said Kabamba.