Universal Peace Federation UK Successfully Celebrates Africa Day 2023
London, 28th May 2023
Photos (https://bit.ly/3P1DoQ3)
The Universal Peace Federation UK successfully concluded the Africa Day 2023 celebration on Saturday, 27th May 2023 at 43 Lancaster Gate, London, W2 3NA. The event brought together diverse communities, African leaders, and individuals passionate about promoting peace, cultural exchange, and development in Africa.
Africa Day 2023 proved to be a resounding success, featuring a dynamic program that showcased the richness of African culture and the collective commitment to building a peaceful and prosperous future. The event was marked by engaging presentations, captivating performances, and heartfelt discussions.
The day commenced with the recognition of volunteers and UPF staff, followed by a warm welcome from Margaret Ali and Robin Marsh, which set the tone for the event. A procession of dancing and waving of different African nations' flags, led by Moderator Lorna Marah, UPF Ambassador for Peace and Music Artiste, infused the atmosphere with a vibrant sense of unity and pride.
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Distinguished speakers, including Dr. Yehoeshahfaht Ben Israel, (video https://youtu.be/xZjc5NOsq2M ) shared their knowledge and expertise, highlighting various aspects of Africa's development and the reassertion of its own identity after throwing off its colonial past. Their insights resonated deeply with the audience, fostering a greater understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing African nations.
Robert Williamson (video https://youtu.be/b-yjEW1dpwU ) shared his experience born in what is now Zambia, returning in 1975 and spending several decades in Zambia while developing a sausage factory to provide greater food security and employment. He explained that UPF had grown to perform a critical role in Africa in partnership with the African Union mobilising African leaders in pan-African summits and promoting character education and youth development activities.
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Rev George Ogurie (video https://youtu.be/5F525dCFBh8 ) joined the event from Abuja, Nigeria to explain UPF's nationwide character education programme in partnership with the Nigerian Ministry of Education. He was grateful for the continued support of UPF UK with the progress of that programme that is currently undergoing several pilot projects. UPF UK (
One of the event's highlights was the presentation of the Ambassador for Peace Awards. Mohammed Khuram RIAZ, a celebrity from Pakistan with a big heart for humanitarian support for the poor, invited by Mr. Aurangzeb Akbar, was awarded during the programme. Caroline Mukaka (video https://youtu.be/eL2alZ6ssnM) the founder of Ladies of All Nations International (LOANI) supporting victims of domestic violence and Aneta Buckthought were recognized for their outstanding contributions to peacebuilding and their unwavering commitment to promoting harmony and understanding.
The event also provided a platform for representatives from African nations, such as Reuben Johnson from Ghana, Suzy Longer from South Sudan, Lorna Marah from Sierra Leone, and Ernst Kamga from Cameroon, to express their perspectives and shed light on their respective countries' unique experiences.
Africa Day 2023 also addressed critical issues affecting the continent. Charlotte Bosawa Eyenga Simon (video https://youtu.be/rF3KZ5VSmZ8 ) discussed human rights concerns in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, emphasizing the need for concerted efforts to protect the rights of women in conflict-affected areas. She emphasised that even the name Africa was given by colonial powers and did not represent the promise and potential of the continent. Together with her daughter, they support victims of rape through TG Foundation which has homes in eastern DRC.
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Dr. Mekki Elsayed drew attention to Sudan humanitarian relief efforts in an emotional address, (video https://youtu.be/3IdkARPqPOY) underscoring the importance of international cooperation and support. He also presented awards to several people for their support of Sudan’s humanitarian needs. He is working with the Red Crescent and Red Cross and looking for funding support. Please contact us (
The event concluded with lively music and dance performances that captured the spirit and vibrancy of African culture. We were very grateful for the singing of Anthony Everest who could entertain the audience. African Attendees were then invited to engage in networking opportunities and enjoy a selection of traditional African cuisine.
The Universal Peace Federation UK extends its heartfelt gratitude to all participants, volunteers, speakers, performers, and attendees who contributed to the success of Africa Day 2023. The event served as a testament to the shared commitment to peace, development, and cultural understanding among diverse communities in the UK and Africa.
About Universal Peace Federation UK:
The Universal Peace Federation UK is a charity dedicated to promoting peace, interfaith cooperation, and sustainable development. Through various initiatives, events, and partnerships, the organization works towards creating a world of peace, harmony, and mutual respect.
For further information, photos or media inquiries, please contact:
Robin Marsh, Secretary General, Universal Peace Federation (UPF) - UK
Mobile: (+44) 07956210768
www.uk.upf.org @ukUPF
facebook.com/universalpeacefederation.uk
Charity No. 1185412
UPF is an NGO in General Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the UN