The sun comes out for Africa Day

AS the sun shone outside Clare County Council’s headquarters on Wednesday afternoon, one youngster happily quipped “It’s just like Africa”. He wasn’t far wrong as inside, the rest of his family were enjoying the colourful celebrations being held to mark Africa Day.
The day acknowledges 50 years of the African Union and African independence, with the Ennis event just one of many organised throughout the county celebrating the rich heritage of various African countries.
A variety of food from South Africa, Nigeria, the Congo, Ghana, Morocco and Somalia prepared by women now living in Ennis was sampled by the many African and non-African Clare residents who attended the event. There was also music, while the young people of Ennis Community College also performed a dance.
Among those taking part in the celebrations was Benjy Mba-Ileozor, a chief of the Nigerian Igbo tribe, who has been living in Ennis since 2002 with his family. They took the Irish citizenship test last year and he explained that his family are proud to be a part of the local community. He is a member of Ennis’ parish council and one of his four children is currently studying for their Leaving Certificate in St Flannan’s.
“Ennis is a really beautiful place and my family really enjoy it here, it is so peaceful and a lovely place to raise our kids. It is quite a different life here to in Nigeria in many ways and we appreciate the efforts of the Irish Government to take care of its citizens and foreigners alike. Today is a wonderful celebration and it gives us a chance to display our culture, music and dance,” he said.
Orla Ní Éili of the Clare Immigrant Support Centre explained that there are over 1,000 African people now living in Clare, many of whom have been here for more than a decade.
“This event in Africa is the equivalent of our St Patrick’s Day, with some places having days off. We are the only country outside of Africa that celebrates Africa Day so much,” she said. There are over 10 events taking place throughout Clare to mark the occasion, with schools and libraries among the venues. She pointed out that this celebration is an opportunity to recognise the valuable contribution of both the Irish and African diaspora to communities.
Abiodun Olumide Awolowo of the African Forum told those gathered, “We are celebrating the richness and diversity of African culture and heritage, we are celebrating the unity of Africa.” Speaking about Clare, he said, “Immigrants, particularly those of us of African descent, have enjoyed tremendous excellent relationships with our host communities, starting with those in authority from the government agencies to the Clare Immigrant Support Centre. “He also acknowledged the efforts of Africans in the community, whether that be through the work of associations, the efforts of various religious leaders or African businesses in the town.
Mayor of Clare, Pat Daly, offered a “céad míle fáilte” to all who attended the event, saying that immigrants from Africa have made a “huge contribution” to life in Ennis.
“You are all part of a multicultural family that moved into Ennis and you have become part of our society,” he said. Mayor of Ennis, Peter Considine, echoed the sentiments and outlined the strong relationship between Ennis and Africa, particularly Nigeria, citing the election of former councillor Taiwo Matthew to the town council. 
The Africa Day event was organised by the Association of Nigerians in County Clare, Clare Immigrant Support Centre, Ghanian Irish Friendship Society, Moroccan Irish Friendship Association and members of the Congolese community.