It’s a big event for India. A big responsibility for New Delhi. Why? Because big guns from 54 African nations will all camp here, ahead of the much talked about Indo-African Summit.
These 54 people include heads of state and government of around 40 countries, as well as delegates from the powerful African Union. They’re all going to be a part of the four-day India-Africa Summit beginning on October 26.
The Whos
Among the invitees, there are people like the Malawi President Peter Mutharika, South African President Jacob Zuma, Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari and Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe who will command more attention than the others.
In the limelight
In focus this time will not just be economic ties or political agreements. The focus, this time around will be on culture and heritage and on things that are common between all the nations. Apart from showcasing our hospitality, what will also be put on display would be India’s achievements in sectors like energy, skill building, green technology, health and education.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s pet project of promoting Yoga will also find some space here, as the African delegates will be allowed to take a sneak peek into yoga, its many forms and its benefits.
What’s in store?
The delegates will be treated to a cultural fest organised by the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC). The theme would be of the confluence of cultures. Some of these performances planned have been in Connaught Place’s Central Park, while some will be at Park in Chanakyapuri and the Talkatora Stadium.
Not just that, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will inaugurate the ‘India- Africa Friendship Rose Garden’ on Shantipath on October 25.
A play
To entertain and enlighten the guests,’Barrister at Law’, a play written by KA Abbas based on the stay of Mahatma Gandhi in Africa, which will be staged. This will take place at the Nehru Park by Akshara Theatre.
Song and dance
It just won’t be the Indians dishing out their version of art, but the Africans, too, will show how artistically rich they are. Bands from Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, apart from Indian ones will be performing at the same venue.
On October 26, musicians and dancers from Rwanda, South Africa, Ghana and India will floor the audience with their performances. October 26 and 27 will have folk dance performances and international music performance, respectively, by DIAF artistes, Delhiites will be able to enjoy a choreographed show, ‘Africa in India’, on October 31.
Lots of events to make this summit a fairly colourful one!