Dar hosts Africa Day Swahili brunch to celebrate the continent’s cultural unity

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DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA’S Diplomatic Community has met in a colourful celebration of culture and unity during the inaugural Africa Day Swahili Brunch, an event aimed at promoting Kiswahili heritage while strengthening diplomacy, friendship and cooperation among nations represented in the country.

The event formed part of Africa Day celebrations held annually on May 25 to commemorate the founding of the African Union (AU), formerly the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), established in 1963.

Speaking during the gathering attended by ambassadors and their spouses, the spouse of the Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Zakia Kombo, said modern diplomacy is not built solely through formal meetings and policy discussions, but also through human connections, friendship among nations, family relations and cultural exchanges that foster global solidarity and cooperation.

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“From my experience living abroad, including when my husband served as Ambassador to Italy, I witnessed the importance of unity and hospitality within diplomatic communities. That experience inspired me to create the Swahili Brunch and turn the idea into reality, as you are witnessing today,” she said.

Ms Kombo thanked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation for supporting the organisation of the event, noting that the initiative would inspire more future engagements bringing together diplomatic communities to exchange cultures and strengthen international cooperation.

During the event, ambassadors’ spouses enjoyed traditional Swahili cuisine and took part in a range of cultural activities, including traditional chetezo painting, indigenous games such as bao and cards, henna decoration and the making of Swahili-inspired bead bracelets.

Guests also witnessed a fashion showcase reflecting Tanzania’s rich cultural heritage and enjoyed vibrant local entertainment, including energetic Singeli music performances.