Festival celebrates African culture

The African Association of Arizona is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting knowledge of Africa’s traditions and people through cultural programs such as their annual African Festival.

“The AFASA was founded in 1992 by a group of visionary Africans,” says Femi Babarinde, president of the AFASA.  It is for anyone who wants to contribute to being the voice of Africa in the Valley, and support Africa’s development any way possible.

In 1998 the AFASA held its first festival at Heritage Square and have continued to host the event every following year, with exception to 2005.  But in 2007 the AFASA had decided to switch to a much smaller venue and moved the festival to the Delph Courtyard at ASU West.

“Its kind of intimate because there aren’t a lot of people,” says psychic Sonia Thompson, a first-time vendor at the festival. “But I think it could be so much bigger.” 

“With more open space you can fit more vendors and draw more people and generate more money. The smaller it is the harder it is,” adds Thompson

In the small space provided, there were several artistic acts.  The day was started off with traditional African music, followed by local African cultural dancers. There was a brief intermission for an opening ceremony of the U.S. and African anthems then back into the festivities. 

Sing-Sing Rhythms then performed the traditional drum cadences of Senegal and Gambia, which was followed by a blend of reggae and African melodies played by local band RastaFarmers. 

“We really try to capture different artists from different parts of the state and different parts of the country as well,” says Babarinde.  “Of all the artists this year the only one that is returning is Kawambe-Omowale and has been a staple for out festival since the 1990s.”
Kawambe-Omowale is a group of performers who display West African culture through storytelling, music and dancing.

While the artists are performing, the guests have the option to watch while eating a traditional African meal, or browse the vendor tables, which are set up around the perimeter of the courtyard.

“This is my first year participating and it’s been fun,” says Kim Gibson, owner and operator of Kricket Kreations Earrings & Tings.  “It’s just been wonderful watching all the people.

In addition to hosting the African Festival, the AFASA has set up scholarship programs and raises money to aide African refugees.  They are currently in the process of adopting a Valley school.