Africa Month gives pause to reflect on progress

Let's explore some African cuisine and get to know interesting shops in our communities that showcase products from the continent.

May 24, 2022

Emily Wellman 1 minute read

Huge yams – a type of sweet potato – are on sale at the Urban Ethnic Market. Photo: Emily Wellman

May is Africa Month which commemorates the founding of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963, now known as the African Union (AU).

It is a time for reflection on triumphs and challenges the continent faces but also a time for us to reflect on our common heritage.

Kwanga is a cassava bread that originated from the Congo. Photo: Emily Wellman

“Cabinet reminds everyone that our national interests are intrinsically linked to Africa’s stability, unity and prosperity,” Minister in the Presidency, Mondli Gungubele said on May 12.

This year, the African Union titled the theme of celebrations for 2022 ‘The Year of Nutrition’. The Northcliff Melville Times visited the Urban Ethnic Market to discover some of the edible delights from the continent.

The official logo for the 2022 Africa Month celebrations from the African Union. Photo: African Union website

Established in 2017, the market aims to be the premier African supermarket in the country. It offers a wide range of products, both edible and for body care.

Several vegetables from the continent, dried, tinned and fresh foods are available. Lovelyn Bassey the market’s owner said, “The market is symbolic of Africa coming together as one. We believe we should be able to eat and explore without boundaries or borders. Let’s be adventurous this Africa month and eat food from different African countries.”