Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane hosts Gala Dinner at Gallagher, 29 May 2009.

International Relations and Cooperation Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane will be hosting a Gala Dinner for Diplomatic Corps at the Gallagher Estate, today 29th May 2009 at 18h30. The event is hosted in collaboration with Gauteng Economic Development Agency (GEDA) as part of the Africa Day Celebrations. Invited guests include members of the Cabinet, all Premiers from the nine Provinces, Directors-General, Mayors from the three Gauteng Metros, Speaker of Parliament, and Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation and civil society.

This year marks the 46th Africa Day celebration to acknowledge the continent’s achievements in pursuit of a better life for all Africans. Africa Day was initiated as a platform which has been observed since 1963 on May 25, to commemorate the establishment of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) the precursor to the African Union (AU).

It is envisaged that the event will serve as a platform for the new administration to pronounce itself on foreign policy and reassure the continent about South Africa’s commitment to the African renewal. In this context the Government remains committed to engaging in African challenges, focusing on peace; social justice, reconstruction and development in the region and to further strengthen the African Union’s Endeavour to consolidate the African Agenda, millennium development goals and the global cultural collaborations that reinforce regional and continental integration. 

Africa Day Celebrations should also be seen as an opportunity for dialogue on relevant cultural policies, platform for skills exchanges, a stage to showcase diverse artistic expressions and also an important market for cultural goods and services from various countries. 

Issued by Nomfanelo Kota on 082 459 3787

Department of International Relations and Cooperation
Private Bag X 152
Pretoria, 0001

29 May 2009.