ADDIS ABABA – The second edition of the East Africa Art and Culture Festival aims to bolster cooperation in trade, tourism, and technology, according to organizers and participants.
Held in Addis Ababa from March 20-24, 2025, under the theme: “Art and Culture for Regional Integration,” the festival showcases the diverse cultural heritage of East African nations.
Speaking to the Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA), Veteran diplomat Ambassador Dina Mufti emphasized the festival’s role in strengthening regional relations and cultural cooperation. He highlighted that showcasing each country’s unique culture facilitates collaboration in trade, tourism, and technology. “Therefore, it is crucial to demonstrate and celebrate these connections,” he stated.
The Oromia Tourism Commission Commissioner Lelise Dhugaa described the festival as a vibrant display of East Africa’s cultural traditions, music, dress, and arts. She stressed its political significance in fostering economic and social integration among participating countries.
“We share languages with East African countries,” Lelise noted, citing examples such as Afaan Oromo, Somali, and Afar, which are spoken across multiple nations. She also highlighted ongoing infrastructure development, including roads, railways, and the planned Lamu Corridor project, which will enhance regional connectivity and integration.
“These initiatives will allow us to integrate language, culture, and economy,” she added.
Lelise also underscored the festival’s contribution to the growth of conference tourism, emphasizing that increased mutual understanding leads to enhanced collaboration and development.
Lucy Uto, a member of the Ugandan delegation, highlighted the festival’s importance in promoting unity, peaceful coexistence, reconciliation, economic development, and opportunities within the East African Community. She noted that the event fosters experience sharing, togetherness, and relationship-building, which are essential for regional cooperation.
Lucy advocated for expanding this spirit of unity beyond the region to encompass the entire African continent.
BY ESSEYE MENGISTE
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 22 MARCH 2025
