The Integrative Biomedical Sciences (IBMS) Division marked Afrika Day on 26 May with a vibrant celebration at the Wolfson Pavilion, bringing together science, food, art, and storytelling in honour of the continent’s diversity. With Seychelles, Morocco, Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Uganda each represented through creative showcases, the event highlighted the strength of unity through diversity.
The programme opened with a warm welcome from Dr Michelle Skelton, followed by an address from Professor Virna Leaner, who reflected on the significance of Afrika Day and this year’s theme: “Justice for Africa and its People: Advancing Reparations.” She called for broader interpretations of reparation—centred on recognition, identity, and dignity. A stirring poem titled African Flame by Dr Roshan Ebrahim added a powerful emotional note, before Professor Lionel Thompson Green, Dean of the Faculty, delivered the keynote address. Encouraging the audience to seek African narratives in their everyday lives, he emphasised that true reparations come not just from policy but from how we treat one another—with ubuntu, care, and respect.
Each group brought their assigned country to life in unique and engaging ways. The Seychelles’ table, hosted by the Blackburn Group, featured seafood delicacies with coconut flavours and highlighted marine biodiversity, coral reef protection, and local legends. Morocco, represented by the Leaner/Woodman Group, offered a sensory feast of breads, tagines, falafels and dips set against a backdrop of vibrant tapestries; Moroccan art, fashion, astronomy, and argan trees were also highlighted. The Barth Group brought Nigeria’s energy with jollof rice, chin chin, and an assortment of stews, with Afrobeat tunes, and tributes to scientific pioneers like Dr Samuel Achilefu and Dr Bennet Omalu. Ethiopia’s story was told by the Sturrock Group, featuring a spread of Ethiopian stews and dishes to be scooped up with Injera, references to Lucy, the birthplace of coffee and a poem honouring the country. Uganda, represented by C-Bio, stood out with a traditional performance of dance and song, alongside a table of chapati, pilau, matooke, gnuts and other Ugandan dishes and a showcase of the country’s health tech innovations and biosciences.
A panel of judges awarded Morocco the top honours for Best Display, Best Food, and Best Science, while Uganda was recognised for Best Art. Morocco was also named the overall winner of the day. Roshan closed the event with a heartfelt vote of thanks to all participants and sponsors of the event.
More than a celebration, Afrika Day at IBMS was a shared moment of reflection, joy, and engagement; an invitation to carry the spirit of the Afrikan identity into the everyday work of research, teaching, and community.
Compiled by Dr Vinasha Ramasamy
Africa Day 2025
