Three days dedicated to Africa at the CNR UNESCO Headquarter
Article published on 26-05-2023
From 25 May 2023, UNESCO member countries are commemorating Africa Week. The event bears dual significance. Firstly, it reinforces the strategic directions of the Organization, with its primary resources centered on the continent. Secondly, it marks the date of 25 May 1963, when 32 African state heads convened in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, signing the Charter that established the Organisation of African Unity, now known as the African Union.
Against this backdrop, the Romanian National Commission for UNESCO, partnering with the University of Bucharest's Institute of African Studies, orchestrated a three-day international gathering. Activities featured: the inauguration of two African-themed exhibitions, an insightful lecture by Professor and archaeologist Hamady Bocoum, director of Senegal's Musée des civilisations noires, and a round table exploring the symbolism of African and South-East European masks.
The inaugural day, 22 May 2023, offered an immersive journey through Africa, experienced via photographs and masks. Two exhibitions, "Memories of Africa" by photographer Helmut Ignat (National Geographic Romania) and "Africa, a Continent of Masks" showcasing African masks from Mr. Virgiliu Pop's private collection, were unveiled. The opening ceremony witnessed remarks from prominent figures like Mr. Andrei Luca (Director, Ministry of Foreign Affairs), Mr. Andras Demeter (Secretary of State, Ministry of Culture), Mr. Sorin Costreie (Vice-Chancellor, University of Bucharest), and the exhibition creators. [Watch the day's speeches here.]
On day two, Professor Bocoum shed light on Africa's socio-economic and cultural trajectory. He spotlighted the Megalithic Circles of Senegambia, spanning Gambia and Senegal, an archaeological wonder featuring over 1,000 stone circles and tumuli. This sprawling site, covering a 100 km x 350 km area along the Gambia River, has unearthed human graves, pottery, and region-specific iron tools and ornaments. [Access the lecture here.]
The concluding day, 24 May 2023, revolved around an insightful round table discussion on the symbolism of masks, viewed through a transdisciplinary and intercultural lens. Professor Bocoum emphasized masks' pivotal roles in African ceremonies, while Corina Mihăescu from the National Heritage Institute drew parallels with Romanian traditions. Masks, both in Africa and Romania, serve as spiritual, representational, and cultural symbols, intertwined with nature's rhythms and human beliefs. [View the round table discussion here.]
The NRC UNESCO expresses its gratitude to all attendees.
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