Kids' Stuff
There was a range of activities on offer for kids at Africa Day Limerick. Children of all ages were invited to come along to Limerick City Hall for a day of games, fun and art.
12.30-1pm, Istabraq Hall: Dance African Childhood - Workshop with Beni Karugo
Beni Karugo – a facilitator with vast experience in staging fun, interactive children’s workshops focusing on African traditions and cultures - delivered the 'Dance African Childhood' workshop at Africa Day Limerick. This workshop was suited to children of all ages, and included storytelling, dancing and music.
During the workshop, Beni told the story of a kanga and taught a basic African dance step. She used percussion instruments made from recycled materials, and children taking part were encouraged to try on traditonal African clothing and dress up in leso or kanga style garments.
Lesos or kangas are the most prominent article of clothing for people along the Swahili coast of East Africa. They are usually printed in bold designs and bright colours. In addition to using the garments as clothing, women in East Africa also use lesos / kangas to cover their heads; carry their young children on their backs; as tablecloths, and as wall hangings.
Children's Art Activities
The art space in Limerick City Hall was open from 12pm onwards, and budding art lovers were encouraged to try their hand at making African head-dresses out of cut-out paper; painting an African animal, or creating a mini-exhibition using a clothes-line to showcase their art.
Oware Boardgames
Irish Aid, together with Concern and Trócaire, hosted the ’Great Big Oware Jam' in the Arts, Crafts and Games room in Limerick City Hall. Visitors were invited to come along to try their hand at one of the world's oldest board games. Anyone - both young and old - can learn how to play this traditional African board game!