Children of Balgaddy mark Africa Day with interactive lessons

Mayor of South Dublin Ed O’Brien and Minister of State for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora Colm Brophy TD teamed up with Gomba Educare to mark Africa Day and provide interactive storytelling lessons for young children in Balgaddy.

Taking place tomorrow, May 25, Africa Day is the annual commemoration of the foundation of the African Union, which took place in Addis Ababa on May 25 1963.

According to South Dublin County Council, in Ireland, “Africa Day represents an opportunity to acknowledge a diffuse, diverse and important group of people from 50 African countries, who enrich and make a valuable contribution to Irish society.

“Africa Day events are supported by Irish Aid at the Department of Foreign Affairs and celebrate African diversity and success and the cultural and economic potential of the continent.”

For today’s event, Balgaddy pupils were transported into a “magical world through beautifully crafted songs and stories, followed by a fun and educational quiz about Africa and finish up with a storytelling session of the Nigerian folk tale ‘The Story of the Lightning and the Thunder’.”

Speaking during his visit Minister Brophy said: “It is a real pleasure for me to visit Balgaddy Child and Family Centre today, and to see adults and children alike immerse themselves in songs and stories from Africa.

“I encourage everyone to visit AfricaDay.ie to see what is happening all around the country and to join in the virtual celebrations.”

Cllr Ed O’Brien, Mayor of South Dublin County, said: “I was delighted to join Minister Brophy in Balgaddy today to celebrate the rich culture of Nigeria and the growing diversity of south Dublin county.

“Africa Day is an extremely important date in the calendar as we get to share some of the rich cultures of the entire African continent.

“We have a proud storytelling history in Ireland and it was wonderful to take in a Nigerian folk tale today.”