Echoes of Africa, The Festival Reception For African Immigrants in Philadelphia

The African Coalition for North America (ACANA), The Coalition of African Organizations (AFRICOM), and Councilwoman Hon. Jannie L. Blackwell, came together recently to sponsor the 2003 Philadelphia Reception for African Immigrants (and African Festival), titled "ECHOES OF AFRICA." It was a historic occasion, and our men, Oliver Oscar Mbamara, Esq. and Sir Citor Felix Nnorom were there as usual to bring you juicy photo coverage and commentaries. It was held on August 9, 2003 at the Malcolm X Park in Philadelphia.

SEE HOW IT HAPPENED BELOW

Plus The Complete Photo Story

Young and Talented: "Mogawane Jnr..." who performed alongside Mogawane Mahloele of South Africa

COMPLETE PHOTO STORY BELOW

FUN: Some elated and excited attendees join the fun as Sharon Katz and the Peace Train, from South Africa deliver

HOW IT HAPPENED: The event commenced with the observance of official protocols including reception and welcome ceremonies and addresses by Hon. Jannie Blackwell, Voffee Jabateh of ACANA, Dr. Jude Iheoma of AFRICOM, The Swaray Productions and other distinguished guests. There was a short break for lunch quickly followed by several performances by the several artists listed to perform. Several performers like Motgawane Mahloele of South Africa, Sharon Katz and The Peace train from South Africa, The Swaray productions from Liberia, and George the recording artist. However, as the crowd was warming into the activities and beginning to interact, the rain came down and despite prayers and waiting by the excited crowd, things were halted by the time the rain stopped. Several big performers such as Monique Seca, the African Theater USA Troupe performers, and more could not get to perform. Nevertheless, the event was an enjoyable one to remember. Greater hopes are being maintained for the 2004 event.

While talking with Voffee Jabateh, the coordinator for ACANA, we learnt that there is move to make the event become an African Day in Philadelphia. We wish them well.

Dr. Jude Iheoma,. who is the Chairman of AFRICOM, granted us an Interview. SEE DETAILS OF THE INTERVIEW - "HISTORY WAS MADE"

Please see detailed photo-coverage below.

THE COMPLETE PHOTO STORY

VENUE: Malcolm X Park in Philadelphia

FLAG BEARERS (from left): Zylamyamen, Princess Dorley, and Sanneh Quiah

Mogawane sharing stories

Sharon Katz entertaining the crowd

Peace train Guitarist

DESPITE ALL ODDS: The youthful and vibrant members of the Gold Coast Buccaneers would not be stopped by the rain as they managed to perform in a narrow space while it rained.

Members of the African Theater Troupe preparing to go on stage, before the rain deprived the audience of the pleasure.

Oliver Oscar Mbamara, Esq. of ATUSA - African Theater USA and UAA - United African Artists being interviewed by James H. Spady of the Philadelphia Observer.

Mrs. Kelechi (left), Charles, and Lolo Urewuchi enjoying themselves.

Oliver Oscar Mbamara, Esq. (left) with Voffee Jabateh (center) and friend

Charles with Tekula and family

Mrs. Rebecca Rose makes a point to Oliver Oscar Mbamara, Esq., our Editor and Publisher

Dr. Emeka Nwadiora and wife Chika Nwadiora (Professors at Temple University), posing with their grandchildren Ndidi and Emeka.

Some members of the audience rocking away

Liberian Woman serve food at the event.

Film producer, Rome Ayo shares a point with our Publisher and Editor, Oliver Oscar Mbamara, Esq.

Dr. Jude Iheoma (left) of AFRICOM and Mr. Voffee Jabateh (Center) of ACANA pose with troupe members of ATUSA - African Theater USA and UAA - The United African Artists

Swaray Productions Singers from Liberia got the crowd dancing and swinging to their Afro rhythm.

The Steel Band doing their thing.

Recording artist - George joins the Swaray Singers to entertain

Artistic Director and performer, Oliver Oscar Mbamara, Esq. of African Theater USA (ATUSA) and co-founding member of United African Artist (UAA) prepares the troupe for their performance.

A cross section of the excited crowd

Another cross section of the excited crowd.

Charles Mbamara, CPA, member of the Nigerian Delegation to the event poses with Film Producer, Rome Ayo, and our man Felix Nnorom

Some members of the Nigerian Delegation to the event

Happy Guests and Attendees

Cheerful Tekula Ngozi and family

The Ravishing Tamora: Touring band member of Francophone star singer, Monique Seca.

The ever handy Yemi Ogunshola: Drummer with the African Theater USA Troupe

DR. Jude Iheoma answering questions from our man Oliver Oscar Mbamara, Esq. and Jeff Hart of WURD 900 AM

And the rain ended it too quickly

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