COMMEMORATION OF AFRICA DAY – 25 MAY 2026
“63 Years of Unity, Integration and Development – Let’s Celebrate Together”
Documentary
MARIZA
Invisible Citizens: Poverty, Identity and the Struggle for Education in Africa
On the 25th of May 2026, Africa marks sixty-three years since the establishment of the Organization of African Unity, now known as the African Union.
Across the continent, leaders gather to celebrate unity, integration, and development under the theme:
“Sixty-three (63) Years of Unity, Integration and Development — Let’s Celebrate Together.”
But beyond the official ceremonies and speeches, many African families continue to face a different reality — poverty, exclusion, lack of education, and the absence of basic civil documentation.
Today, we return to the story of Mariza.
Mariza is fifteen years old.
Like millions of African children, her future was interrupted not by lack of intelligence or dreams, but by poverty and the absence of national identification documents.
Born into a vulnerable family, Mariza dropped out of school at an early age because her parents could not afford the costs associated with education and because she lacked proper legal registration.
In 2025, hope appeared.
With the support of a friendly adoptive family, Mariza was temporarily able to return to school and sit for examinations in a public institution. For a moment, it seemed her life was changing.
But that hope was short-lived.
In December 2025, she returned to her biological mother in an attempt to process her identification documents. She never returned to school again.
Months later, in May 2026, our team visited the family home to understand what happened.
The findings were heartbreaking.
Mariza no longer lives with her mother.
Due to severe financial hardship, her mother sent her to live with distant relatives far from home. Sadly, even there, Mariza is not studying.
Inside the house, silence filled the empty rooms.
Most of her sisters were absent, facing similar struggles. None of the children have managed to escape the cycle of poverty and exclusion.
Their father has never taken responsibility for processing the children’s documentation.
Without birth registration or national identification, many opportunities remain closed: education, healthcare, employment, and social protection.
The family continues living in extremely poor conditions.
The only positive development is that Mariza’s mother, Miss Quimbita, recently found work as a cleaner. However, the salary is extremely low, and most of her income is consumed by transportation costs because her workplace is located far from home.
This story raises painful questions.
After 63 years of African independence and continental unity, how many children are still invisible to the system?
How many girls continue losing their education because they are poor?
How many families remain trapped in structures that fail to protect the most vulnerable?
The African Union speaks of development and integration. Yet true development cannot exist while children remain undocumented, out of school, hungry, and forgotten.
The Sustainable Development Goals — particularly:
SDG 1: No Poverty,
SDG 4: Quality Education,
SDG 5: Gender Equality,
SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities,
and SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions,
all remind governments that development must begin from the bottom — with ordinary families, vulnerable children, and marginalized communities.
This documentary is not only a story about one girl.
It is a reflection of millions across Africa.
As Africa celebrates its unity today, many citizens are still waiting to be fully recognized, protected, and included.
Until systems are rebuilt to serve the poor and vulnerable, the promise of African development will remain incomplete.
From Luanda, Angola, this is our Africa Day 2026 special report.
THIS IS HOW WE CELEBRATED AFRICA DAY IN 2025 IN THE UK
Video on demand
Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations
Happy Africa Day, everyone!
My name is Sofonie Dala, a proud Chevening scholar from Angola. Today, I stand before you filled with joy as we commemorate an extraordinary milestone—the first-ever Africa Day celebration in York, supported wholeheartedly by the City of York Council.
This day has not only marked a significant chapter in our local history but has also fostered a spirit of unity, as British and African communities came together to celebrate as one family. We were equally delighted to witness the presence of representatives from Asian countries, showcasing the beauty of diversity in our gathering.
This year’s theme, “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations,” resonates deeply as we honor the memories of those who suffered under slavery and colonialism. It is a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for truth, justice, and restoration—a fight that transcends borders and generations.
Councillor Martin Rowley BEM of the Osbaldwick and Derwent Ward delivered a compelling speech, one that echoed through the hearts of many. With passion and conviction, he emphasized that this initiative is merely the beginning of a journey toward strengthening support for the African community in York. He declared, “York must be a welcoming city where everyone feels loved and comfortable, like at home. There’s no place for discrimination or persecution.” His words served as a call to action, a reminder that while laws can create frameworks for equality, true change requires each individual to confront their biases and prejudices.
Despite centuries of coexistence between white continents and people of African descent, we still face the harsh realities of racism, prejudice, and discrimination in various spheres of life. These negative feelings cannot simply be legislated away; they demand introspection and a commitment to change within oneself. Each of us has a role to play in dismantling these barriers, fostering a culture of empathy, understanding, and love.
The event itself was a vibrant tapestry of culture and celebration. People danced energetically, embodying the spirit of Africa, with laughter and joy permeating the air. Even Lord Martin joined in the festivities, dancing with the energy of an African lord, as if transported to a lively African landscape. The atmosphere was electric, filled with music, dance, and connection—a celebration of resilience, heritage, and hope.
In alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this celebration contributes to several key areas:
- Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities- By promoting inclusivity and addressing systemic prejudices, we take a step towards creating a more equitable society.
- Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions - The theme of justice for Africans and people of African descent aligns perfectly with the pursuit of justice and the need for strong, fair institutions.
- Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals- The collaboration between the York Council and various communities exemplifies the power of partnership in achieving meaningful change.
As we move forward, let us carry the spirit of Africa Day in our hearts and strive towards a future filled with justice, love, and unity. Together, we can create a world where every individual, regardless of their background, feels valued and celebrated. Thank you all for being part of this historic day, and let us continue to work together for a brighter future!
Remembering Africa day celebrations in Russia, exactly 12 years ago
Young Sofonie Dala is giving interviews to Russian press
May 2013
Gallery
Video on demand
Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations
Happy Africa Day, everyone!
My name is Sofonie Dala, a proud Chevening scholar from Angola. Today, I stand before you filled with joy as we commemorate an extraordinary milestone—the first-ever Africa Day celebration in York, supported wholeheartedly by the City of York Council.
This day has not only marked a significant chapter in our local history but has also fostered a spirit of unity, as British and African communities came together to celebrate as one family. We were equally delighted to witness the presence of representatives from Asian countries, showcasing the beauty of diversity in our gathering.
This year’s theme, “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations,” resonates deeply as we honor the memories of those who suffered under slavery and colonialism. It is a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for truth, justice, and restoration—a fight that transcends borders and generations.
Councillor Martin Rowley BEM of the Osbaldwick and Derwent Ward delivered a compelling speech, one that echoed through the hearts of many. With passion and conviction, he emphasized that this initiative is merely the beginning of a journey toward strengthening support for the African community in York. He declared, “York must be a welcoming city where everyone feels loved and comfortable, like at home. There’s no place for discrimination or persecution.” His words served as a call to action, a reminder that while laws can create frameworks for equality, true change requires each individual to confront their biases and prejudices.
Despite centuries of coexistence between white continents and people of African descent, we still face the harsh realities of racism, prejudice, and discrimination in various spheres of life. These negative feelings cannot simply be legislated away; they demand introspection and a commitment to change within oneself. Each of us has a role to play in dismantling these barriers, fostering a culture of empathy, understanding, and love.
The event itself was a vibrant tapestry of culture and celebration. People danced energetically, embodying the spirit of Africa, with laughter and joy permeating the air. Even Lord Martin joined in the festivities, dancing with the energy of an African lord, as if transported to a lively African landscape. The atmosphere was electric, filled with music, dance, and connection—a celebration of resilience, heritage, and hope.
In alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this celebration contributes to several key areas:
- Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities- By promoting inclusivity and addressing systemic prejudices, we take a step towards creating a more equitable society.
- Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions - The theme of justice for Africans and people of African descent aligns perfectly with the pursuit of justice and the need for strong, fair institutions.
- Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals- The collaboration between the York Council and various communities exemplifies the power of partnership in achieving meaningful change.
As we move forward, let us carry the spirit of Africa Day in our hearts and strive towards a future filled with justice, love, and unity. Together, we can create a world where every individual, regardless of their background, feels valued and celebrated. Thank you all for being part of this historic day, and let us continue to work together for a brighter future!
Remembering Africa day celebrations in Russia, exactly 12 years ago
Young Sofonie Dala is giving interviews to Russian press
May 2013
Gallery
THIS WAS THE CELEBRATION OF AFRICA DAY 2024 IN THE UK
Video on demand
Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations
Happy Africa Day, everyone!
My name is Sofonie Dala, a proud Chevening scholar from Angola. Today, I stand before you filled with joy as we commemorate an extraordinary milestone—the first-ever Africa Day celebration in York, supported wholeheartedly by the City of York Council.
This day has not only marked a significant chapter in our local history but has also fostered a spirit of unity, as British and African communities came together to celebrate as one family. We were equally delighted to witness the presence of representatives from Asian countries, showcasing the beauty of diversity in our gathering.
This year’s theme, “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations,” resonates deeply as we honor the memories of those who suffered under slavery and colonialism. It is a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for truth, justice, and restoration—a fight that transcends borders and generations.
Councillor Martin Rowley BEM of the Osbaldwick and Derwent Ward delivered a compelling speech, one that echoed through the hearts of many. With passion and conviction, he emphasized that this initiative is merely the beginning of a journey toward strengthening support for the African community in York. He declared, “York must be a welcoming city where everyone feels loved and comfortable, like at home. There’s no place for discrimination or persecution.” His words served as a call to action, a reminder that while laws can create frameworks for equality, true change requires each individual to confront their biases and prejudices.
Despite centuries of coexistence between white continents and people of African descent, we still face the harsh realities of racism, prejudice, and discrimination in various spheres of life. These negative feelings cannot simply be legislated away; they demand introspection and a commitment to change within oneself. Each of us has a role to play in dismantling these barriers, fostering a culture of empathy, understanding, and love.
The event itself was a vibrant tapestry of culture and celebration. People danced energetically, embodying the spirit of Africa, with laughter and joy permeating the air. Even Lord Martin joined in the festivities, dancing with the energy of an African lord, as if transported to a lively African landscape. The atmosphere was electric, filled with music, dance, and connection—a celebration of resilience, heritage, and hope.
In alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this celebration contributes to several key areas:
- Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities- By promoting inclusivity and addressing systemic prejudices, we take a step towards creating a more equitable society.
- Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions - The theme of justice for Africans and people of African descent aligns perfectly with the pursuit of justice and the need for strong, fair institutions.
- Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals- The collaboration between the York Council and various communities exemplifies the power of partnership in achieving meaningful change.
As we move forward, let us carry the spirit of Africa Day in our hearts and strive towards a future filled with justice, love, and unity. Together, we can create a world where every individual, regardless of their background, feels valued and celebrated. Thank you all for being part of this historic day, and let us continue to work together for a brighter future!
Remembering Africa day celebrations in Russia, exactly 12 years ago
Young Sofonie Dala is giving interviews to Russian press
May 2013
Gallery
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