It is one of the major events in the summer event calendar eagerly awaited by communities of African descent in Edmonton. This year’s Africa Day Gala was moved from June to August 31, 2019, at the magnificent Grand Imperial Conference Centre in Edmonton.
The event was well attended, animated by musical performances, speeches, recognition, and the presentation of Africa Centre’s new Executive Director, Sharif Haji.
As per tradition, the Africa Centre recognizes those who have done a good job during the year in helping the centre accomplish its objectives. This year was no different. Councillor Andrew Knack received the trophy on behalf of the City of Edmonton for their contribution to the Africa Centre. John T. Gaye, was treated to a standing ovation for his outstanding work in stabilizing the centre during the stormy days, jumping in the hot seat to serve as Executive Director when the former was fired, attracting a new breed of active visionary Board members, and many successful projects realized during his time. Team Ghana got the big trophy for winning the 2019 soccer tournament.
When things are politicized, division poke its ugly head and controversy sets in
The recognition did not go without controversy as Africa Centre break from its own tradition to recognize politicians who have not supported the centre directly or have only attended the event as part of their jobs. UCP Municipal Affairs Minister, Kaycee Madu controversially got an award, someone barely seen in the communities of African descent if it’s not organized by his ethnic Igbo-Nigerian group. “…like me, if you work hard, play by the rules, you will succeed…,” Minister Madu lectured as he received his award. He added, “…I’m not deserving of this award…”. For sure he did not deserve the award to his own admission. He preaches the gospel of playing by the rules to accomplish things, but he however took award anyways.
David Shepherd, NDP MLA for Edmonton Centre, one of the loudest multicultural voices in Alberta, who has attended countless Africa Centre events, was hastily added to the recognition list to balance things up.
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