The Vice President, African Tourism Board, Dine Bouraima has said that communities across the continent remain the most significant part of the nations, adding that, yet governments tend to neglect dwellers, putting much concentration on urban areas.
Bouraima who made this known at the 5th Grassroot Africa Award held virtually on Saturday, noted that safe and secured communities across the African continent would give an assurance of a secured future for the coming generations.
The Grassroots Africa Awards and Conference International (GACCI) is aim at recognising Africans, African Diaspora supporting their various communities in their own little ways within their chosen area of endeavours.
On the theme of the event: “Activating the well of African Communities”, the Vice President hailed some spirited individuals who were recognized for taking it upon themselves to support these communities one way or the other despite the negligence of the policy makers.
He said, “This trend is reflecting across board in all our life endeavors as Africans where there are lots of challenges in the sectors such as health, education, food, women, Youths among others.
“It should be noted that as a collective entity and individually we are obligated to support our communities wherever they are, hence my congratulations to the awardees that have continued to give out of their widow’s mite against all odds”, the VP added.
Bouraima commended the convener of this great initiative, who saw need to encourage these individuals to do more, saying that this type of recognition would give the recipients impetus to what to do more, in supporting government at the community level, for the betterment of the people.
One of the recipient of the prestigious award in the category of Community Engagement, double as President, Africa Tourism Board, Mr. Simphiwe Cuthbert Ncube in his acceptance speech said this extraordinary honor filled his heart with indescribable joy, sense of responsibility to serve the continent that has nurtured his dreams and ambitions.
According to him, “As we gather here in the spirit of unity and shared purpose, we are called upon to reflect upon the vital theme of this year’s conference: Activating Well-being of African Communities.
He said, “Within this theme lies a clarion call, a call to action that resounds through the tides of time, beckoning us to embrace our role as stewards of our homeland, catalysts for positive change. Africa, a land endowed with unparalleled beauty, rich history, and vibrant cultures, has long been a beacon of hope, resilience, and untold potential.
Adding that, “Yet, the echoes of underprivileged, inequality, and adversity persistently overshadow this magnificent tapestry. It is now, more than ever, that our communities demand undivided attention, our unwavering commitment, and our unrelenting passion.
Ncube stated that the path towards empowering the communities may be arduous and fraught with challenges, but said it is a journey every individual should embark upon with unwavering resolve. “It is a journey guided by compassion, empathy, and an unwavering belief in the tremendous potential that resides within every nook and cranny of this great continent”.
Speaking further, he said to activate the well-being of African communities, people must recognize the importance of education as the bedrock upon which dreams are built, adding that it is through the provision of quality education that youth are empowered, equipped them with the tools necessary to shatter barriers and unlock their full potential.
“Education is not just a means to an end; it is a powerful equalizer that transcends the shackles of poverty, discrimination, and marginalization. But education alone is not enough. We must also foster a culture of inclusivity, where the voices of women, children, and marginalized groups are not only heard but actively celebrated.
It is through the empowerment of these oft-neglected voices that we can achieve true societal transformation. By amplifying their narratives, providing them with platforms, and ensuring their participation in decision- making processes, we can unleash the true power and resilience of African communities”.
Furthermore, the recipient said people must harness power of technology and innovation, leveraging its potential to bridge gaps, drive economic growth, and engender sustainable development.
“Through targeted investments in digital infrastructure, information communication technologies, and entrepreneurship, we can create an ecosystem that nurtures and celebrates homegrown talent, transforming Africa’s youth into the champions of tomorrow.
“But let us never lose sight of the most vital ingredient in this transformative journey – unity. United, we are an unstoppable force, capable of surmounting any obstacle, defying any odds, and ushering in a new era of prosperity and well-being for all African communities”, Ncube said.
Also speaking, the Lord Mayor of Zanzibar City, Hon. Mahmoud Mousa, hailed the event organizer, CEO, Kalo Africa Media, Mr Kazeem Balogun for his unflinching support to the continent through his media and the award recognition in which he said others must emulate for the continent to thrive, optimistic about having the event in his city and promised to give all the necessary supports.
Tourism Goodwill Ambassador of Zambia in Rome, Amb. Michelina Sanquest, who expressed her appreciation to the recipients for doing a wonderful job, vowed to continue commit to Africa despite not being an Africa, describing herself as “Mama Africa” judging at the level of her numerous achievements and support for Africa, herself being a philanthropist.
Earlier, the Convener, Founder of Grassroots Africa Awards and Conference International, Kazeem Balogun, CEO, Kalo Africa Media, in his opening speech gave the historical background of the event which according to him started in Accra, Ghana in 2019 and against all odds has survived to witness the 5th edition.
While thanking the participants, he echoed urgency for more spirited minds within Africa and in the diaspora to support African communities just like those that were recognised, saying his organisation will not relent on its oasis to continue appreciating and give due recognition to the African communities’ supporter.
Mr. Balogun thanked recipients and everyone present at the event before he announced Zanzibar City as the next host of the Awards which will take place in June 2024.
Awardees are: Hon. Cuthbert Ncube, President, African Tourism Board, South Africa. Mr. Brahim El Mazned, Founder, Visa For Music, Rabat, Morocco. Ms. Ihuoma Harrisson CEO, Steppers Arts Foundation, Lagos, Nigeria. Nana Adu-Akoratia IV, Kumasi, Ghana. Mrs, Torio James Fadumila CEO, Royal Orchid Enterprises LLC, United States of America among others.