Proud To Be African Clothing

Proud to Be African exists to provide an outlet for the vibrancy and creativity that Africa and Africans posses. We wish to present an alternative narrative to what people know (or think they know!) about that great continent. The designs are all by African artists and are inspired by Africa, with the view that for us wherever we are, whatever we are doing we are always Proud to Be African! Our Products include male, female and children's T shirts, male and female hoodys, babygros

Sunday 26 January 2014

Week of 27th January: Central African Republic, South Sudan, Congo Dialogues, Come Rhyme with me, Africa Xtra history and Reasoning, Nigeria 2015 elections, iCAN Networking, 100 Black Men of London Open Day

Emesiere (hello in Ibibio)

This week Proud to be African Clothing has another wide selection of topical, entertaining and educational events.

South Sudan and Central African Republic feature this week as does Nigeria’s upcoming election with Professor Attahiru Jega. Photographic exhibitions from Congo, networking with iCN and the Black Solicitors Network, music, movies and more

Enjoy the week and keep hold of your umbrella

Monday 27^th January

From 12.00pm Autograph ABP presents When Harmony went to Hell: Congo Dialogues: Alice Seeley Harris and Sam Baloji at 1 Rivington Place, EC2A 3BA. This exhibition of rarely seen photographs by English missionary Alice Seeley Harris detailing the atrocities in Belgian King Leopolds II rule of the Congo Free State dating from 1904 sits alongside newly commissioned work by Congolese contemporary artist Sam Baloji. Running till March 7^th

At 1.00pm the Centre for Africa Studies presents the Africa Business Group Seminar: Can South Sudan Escape the Resource Curse? in Room 16, College Buildings, SOAS, Russell Square, Thornhaugh street, WC1H 0XG. Chaired by Dr Jonathon Di John (SOAS) Annie Dunnebacke (Global Witness) and Emma Vickers (Global Witness) will review South Sudan progress and challenges as the worlds newest country, that draws 98% of its revenue from the oil industry. Tickets are £15.00 (£5.00 students) from here.

At 3.30pm Chatham House presents Conflict in Central African Republic: Religion, Power and Prospects for Reconciliation at Stirling Square, Citi Offices, 5-7 Carlton Gardens, SW1Y 5AD. Archbishop Dieudonne Nzapalainga (Archbishop of Bangui) and Imam Omar Kabine Layama (President of the CAR Islamic Community) will present their views on the crisis, the effects of neglecting the countries poverty indicators,, the effects of spill over and the long term consequences of communal hatred. To attend contact Chris Vandome.

At 7.00pm Lets Watch screens Think Like a Man at Juno Bar, 134-135 Shoreditch High Street, Shoreditch, E1 6JE. This comedy chronicling the lives of four women who’s lives are changed when they start using a self help book is followed by a post show discussion on the topics raised. More details of this FREE event here

At 8.30pm BBM/ BMC presents Africa: Xtra History and Reasoning Session 3- Beyond Slavery: Understanding History at the Mayors Parlour, Harrow Civic Centre, 1 Station Road, Harrow, HA1 2XY. This presentation by Toyin Agbetu covers ancient African civilisations, the world’s first universities and cultures. RSVP this FREE event here.

Tuesday 28^th January

At 8.30am is Business in Africa Pays at Bishopsgate Court, 4-12 North Folgate, E1 6DQ. This event is a platform for foreign businesses to learn how they can receive expert advice, generate funding, invest in companies and operate safely. Expert speakers include executives from Emirates, Sung, Steve Murphy (Hitachi), Richard Putley (Executives in Africa) and others. Tickets are £50.00 from here.

At 10.00am OMFIF launches Emerging Africa: How the global economy’s ‘last frontier’ can prosper and matter at The Travellers Club, 106 Pall Mall, SW1Y 5EW. Chaired by Lord Desai (OMFIF) with Dr Kingsley Moghalu (Central Bank of Nigeria) and respondent Rezia Khan (Standard Chartered Bank) this report launch reflects the experiences of Dr Moghalu as Deputy Governor of CBN and his thoughts on how the region can become a key player in international economic affairs. RSVP by email

At 5.00pm ADDAA presents The Diasporas role in African Agriculture and Food Security in Committee Room 18, House of Commons, SW1A 0AA. This roundtable discussion held in conjunction with the All Parliamentary Group for Debt, Aid and Trade will be chaired by Alison McGovern MP, will address the question of Africa’s potential to feed itself, and the role African diaspora can play in it. Felix Kupay (ADDAA) will introduce ADDAA’s aims and activities, Karima Ola (African Development Corporation) will discuss the unique contribution of the Diaspora within the Agriculture and Food Security Sector, Professor Lawrence Haddad (Institute of Development Studies) will discuss how the diaspora can contribute to Agriculture and Food Security policy research and a presentation on the current UK Government priorities for the development of African Agriculture and Food Security. Register for this FREE event here.

At 7.00pm AFFORD presents Sierra Leonean Health Matters in Room G3, SOAS Main Building,. The report ‘Sierra Leonean Health Matters: Mapping the potential for Sierra Leonean professionals to contribute to their home country’s health sector’ by Moses Okech and Denise Awoonor-Renner, gives an overview of UK based Sierra Leonean healthcare workers, their geographical spreas, employment and professional profiles and how they can address healthcare shortages in Sierra Leones healthcare system. RSVP this FREE event by email.

At 7.00pm is Heaven and Earth: Church Education amd Monastic Culture in Ethiopia in the Khallili Lecture Theatre, SOAS. This documentary film presents the development of indigenous Christianity in an African setting. Followed by a Q&A with director Mackonen Michael, chaired by Dr John Campbell (SOAS). Tickets are £7.00 (£5.00 students) from here

At 7.45pm is How to be Immortal at The Albany Theatre, Douglas Way, Deptford, SE8 4AG. This bold and funny play about love, science, death and immortality with live music deals with three twisted tales of love, death and DNA. Followed by a post show discussion, tickets are £12.00 (£10.00 concs) from here.

Wednesday 29^th January

At 6.00pm the Royal African Society presents The Central African Republic: Explaining the crisis in the Grand Committee Room. House of Commons, Westminster, SW1A 0AA. Chaired by Lord Jack McConnell (Great Lakes APPG) a panel of experts will discuss the latest developments in the CAR, identify key players in the conflict, with the historical background, in addition speakers will discuss regional and international efforts to alleviate the crises and its humanitarian impact with Arjan Hehenkamp (Medecins Sans Frontieres), Caesar Poblicks (MSF), Peteris Ustubs (European External Action Service). Register for this FREE event here.

Thursday 30^th January

At 11.30am Chatham House presents Nigeria’s 2015 elections: Expectations, Priorities and the Independent National Election Commission at Chatham House. Chaired by Richard Downie (Centre for Strategic and International Studies) with Professor Attahiru Jega (INEC) who will discuss the existing and emerging challenges to Nigeria’s upcoming 2015 election. To register contact Chris Vandome

At 5.00pm Chatham House presents The Battle for Mozambique: The FRELIMO-RENAMO Struggle, 1977-1992 at Chatham House, 10 St James Square, SW1Y 4LE. Chaired by Mats Berdal (Kings College London), Stephen A. Emerson (author The Battle for Mozambique: The FRELIMO-RENAMO Struggle, 1977-1992) will present the key findings of his book and discuss RENAMOs past and present with Alex Vines (Chatham House) and its role in Mozambique today. To attend this FREE event contact Chris Vandome.

At 6.00pm Global Native presents Financing Zimbabwe’ s New Rural Farmer at the London School of Economics and Political Science, Room STC.S421, 4^th Floor, St Clements Building, Houghton Street, WC2A 2AE. This presentation explores the financing mechanisms available to rural, small scale farmers, examining a case study of Zimbabwean diaspora working to achieve that goal. Register for this FREE event here.

At 6.00pm is the iCAN Social Network Evening at Tompkins, 4 Pan Peninsula Square, South Quay, Canary Wharf, E14 9HN, this is an informal social networking for African and Caribbean professionals. Register for this FREE event here or just turn up.

At 6.00pm the Centre for African Studies presents Climate Change in Northern Tanzania in Room 116, College Buildings, SOAS. This presentation by geographer Ben Wisner discusses a project to evaluate the impact of climate change in the Kilimanjaro and Pare Areas. This is a FREE event

At 6.30pm is Onani: An exhibition exploring the heart of Africa at The Salvation Army International Headquarters, 101 Queen Victoria Street, EC4V 4EH. This exotic collection of paintings, photographs and handcrafted artefacts inspired by East Africa. Register for this FREE event here.

From 6.30pm to 8.30pm the 100 Black Men of London hold their Membership Open Day at the CAN Mezzanine, 49-51 East Road, N1 6AH. This community based Black led organisation that is focussed on delivering programmes focussed on mentoring, education and economic empowerment will be holding an Open Day covering what they do, their history and strategic vision for the future and how you can develop leadership, project management, speaking, communication and team building skills. Register for this FREE event here or email for more details.

At 7.00pm Magenta Dating hosts Mix and Mingle (Black Singles Event) at All Bar One, 106-107 Houndsditch, EC3A 9BD. This social mixer event for professional black singles is scheduled to break the January detox and hopefully match a lucky couple in time for Valentine’s Day! Admission is £10.00 from here.

Friday 31^st January

At 10.30am Chatham House presents Division and Conflict in South Sudan: Domestic Politics and Key Actors at Chatham House. Dr Annette Weber (SWP) and Peter Biar Ajak (Centre for Strategic Analysis and Research, South Sudan) will examine the political context n South Sudan, the key stakeholders in the current conflict and negotiations, recent and possible changes to the South Sudanese government. To attend contact Chris Vandome.

At 6.30pm is the Black Solicitors Network Monthly Networking Night at Corney and Barrow, 10 Paternoster Square, St Pauls, EC4M 7DX. This event is open to lawyers, students and professionals of African and Caribbean origin. There are optional ice breakers at this informal event. Its FREE to attend, no need to register

At 7.00pm is Come Rhyme with Me... at Cottons Islington, 70 Exmouth Market, EC1R 4QP. This relaxed spoken word evening hosted by Dean Atta and Deanna Rodger with a Caribbean feel and a Caribbean summer will feature an Open mic, Sarah Perry, Anthony Anaxagorou and Karim Kamar and Bella Spinks. Tickets are £12.50 with supper (£10.00 concs) or £7.50 entry only (£6.00 concs) from here.

At 8.00pm is Concious Kongo with Mulele Matondo Afrika, Lapango Ya Banka and RDC Soldier at Rich Mix, 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, Shoreditch, E1 6LA. These 3 incredible Congolese bands will perform in a mix of English, French, Lingala, Twa and other Congolese languages fusing pop, jazz, hip hop and African rythyms. Tickets are £12.50, £10.00 in advance from here

Saturday 1^st February

At 5.00pm the Mayor and Mayoress of Harrow host Intergenerational Family Fun Evening at Harrow Civic Centre, 1 Station Road, Harrow, HA1 2XY. Kwaku will be holding an intergenerational quiz, story telling by Naa Lorkoi Abotch and a Sankofa Bos handicraft workshop as well as a light meal. This fundraising event for the Mayor’s charities is £5.00 from here.

At 7.00pm KMT presents Mama Africa Unplugged with Mosi Conde at Fairly Square, 51 Red Lion Street, Holborn, WC1R 4PF, part live interview, part workshop and live performance with resident DJ’s KMT and Oya Bun, admission is £5.00 all night, more details here.

Sunday 2^nd February

At 9.00pm Tiwani Contemporary presents Pride at Tiwani Contemporary, 16 Little Portland Street, W1W 8P, the first solo exhibition by Nigerian photographer Andrew Esiebo on barbershops across 8 West African cities (Lagos, Cotonou, Accra, Abidjan, Monrovia, Bamako, Dakar and Nouakchott), running till 8^th February.

Sunday 19 January 2014

Week of 20th January: Afrobeat Vibrations, The African Market Mobilising Resources for Africa, Focus Best From Africa Showcase, Bernadine Evaristo, Lela's Lounge, Chinas Engagement with Africa, AFRUCA Children's Champion

Amosi (Hello in Luo)

As we get through the middle of January, Proud to be African Clothing has another week of fascinating

events from markets, drumming classes, talks on Puntland, Angola, Ethiopia and much more.

The International ROOTS Festival Trip to Gambia takes place between 9^th and 17^th May 2014. The Roots programme is designed to enrich and enlighten people of African descent, by integrating with various tribal groups as they go on a pilgrimage through different villages embracing Gambian traditions, customs, values and culture. The cost is £699.00 for 7 nights, £899.00 for 14 nights and £1,099.00 for 21 nights (inclusive of accommodation, bed and breakfast and airfare). To secure a place, a deposit of £199.00 is required by 31^st January, with final payment by 31^st March 2014. For more details enquire by email or check the website or else phone Angie on 07903 591 426 or 07508 913 114 or Hughie on 07940 081 651 or: 0203 441 6277

Enjoy the week

Monday 20^th January

At 11.00am Chatham House presents Towards Somali Federalism? Insights from Puntlands Presidential Elections at the Royal Institute of International Affairs, Chatham House, 10 St James Square, SW1Y 4LE. With Dr Michael Walls (UCL) discussing the outcome of the election in Puntland, the first of Somalia’s Federal units to attempt to transition from clan based representation to democratically elected government, the effects of Puntlands relationship with the Federal Government and the build up to Somalia’s national election in 2016. To attend contact Chris Vandome.

At 3.00pm Chatham House presents South Africa’s Future: Reflecting on two Decades of Democracy at the Royal Institute of International Affairs, Chatham House. Chaired by Professor Jack Spence OBE (KCL), Colin Coleman (Goldman Sachs International) will present the main findings if their recent report: Two Decades of Freedom: What South Africa is Doing With It, And What Now Needs To be Done and discuss this year’s election and policy options in the 20^th year since its first multi party election, with Martin Plaut (Institute of Commonwealth Studies). To attend this FREE event contact Chris Vandome.

At 3.00pm the Overseas Development Institute hosts Misconceptions, realities and unanswered questions: China’s engagement with Africa at ODI, 203 Blackfriars Road, Southwark, SE1 8NJ. Chaired by Dr Dirk Willem te Velde (ODI), with Professor Raphael Kaplinsky (Open University), Professor Xiaolan Fu (University of Oxford), Associate Professor Christopher Alden (LSE), Dr Stevan Lee (DfID), Dr Dan Korbel (Economic and Social Research Council) and Zhenbo Hou (ODI) who will examine China’s role in Africa and its potential for economic development. RSVP for this FREE event here.

Tuesday 21^st January

From 3.00pm to 5.00pm AFFORD and AMREF present Mobilising Resources for Africa: What role for young Africans in the Diaspora in Room G50, SOAS, Thornhaugh Street, Russell Square, WC1H 0XG. To attend his FREE report launch' email Emma Orefuwa or phone 0203 326 3750.

At 7.00pm Progressio presents the London Launch of the Unbreakable Campaign at St Marys Moorfield Church, 4-5 Eldon Street, EC2M 7LS. Suad Abdi, Progressions programme head in Somaliland will introduce their campaign to improve women’s lives and let their voices be heard. RSVP this FREE event here.

At 7.00pm The Royal African Society presents China, India and the Global Struggle for Oil in Sudan and South Sudan in the Khalili Lecture Theatre, SOAS. Chaired by Charles More (Africa-Asia Confidential), with speaker Dr Luke Patey (Danish Institute for International Studies) and respondents Ali Askouri (Africa’s Resource based Conflicts) and Michal Meidan (Eurasia Group), looking at the politics of oil giants Sudan and South Sudan before and after separation and the ensuing stalemate rooted in territorial disputes and how Chinas involvement in the extraction and purchase of crude and the entry of India affect the dynamic. RSVP this FREE event here.

Wednesday 22^nd January

At 4.00pm Chatham House presents Partners in Prosperity? UK-Angolan Relations for Trade and Economic Growth in Committee Room 4A, House of Lords, Houses of Parliament, Westminster, SW1A 0AA. Chaired by Lord Grocott (Chair of All Party Parliamentary Group on Angola) with Lord Marland (Prime Ministers former Trade Envoy) who will reflect on his experiences leading the UK’s biggest ever Trade mission to Angola and discuss opportunities and priority sectors for investment. To attend, register here.

At 7.00pm Black History Studies will be screening Great black Inventors- The Life and Legacy of George Washington Carver at PCS Headquarters, 160 Falcon Road, Clapham Junction, SW11 2LN, this documentary covers the life and legacy of George Washington Carver one of the most prominent scientists and inventors of his time, devising over 100 products from the peanut. Admission is £5.00, RSVP by email, more details here.

Thursday 23^rd January

At 6.00pm AFFORD presents Educate a Girl, Educate a Society at The Abbey Centre, 34 Great Smith Street, Westminster, SW1P 3BU. This meeting seeks to explore ways of supporting Ethiopian girls to enter and stay in higher education, discussing policy implementation, diaspora remittances and skills transfer. Register for this FREE event here.

Friday 24^th January

At 7.30pm Focus Organisation presents The Best From Africa Live Showcase Festival at Rich Mix, 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, Shoreditch, E1 6LA. Featuring Gaspard Zamble traditional Zaouli dancers from Cote d’Ivoire, Koko Kayinda and the Congo All Stars, performing soukuos from Congo, the Heritage Survival Band performing soukous from Zimbabwe and JP Kairo. Tickets are £7.00 from here.

At 5.30pm AFRUCA presents Conversations with AFRUCA’s Children’s Champions in the Conference Room, 1^st Floor, Leroy House, 436 Essex Road, Islington, N1 3QP. Chaired by Debbie Ariyo OBE this evening of conversations led by 2 AFRUCA Children’s Champions with backgrounds in Social Work and Education will explore child protection issues, parenting practices and how they relate to black/ African children. Refreshments will be provided at this FREE event. Register to attend here.

At 7.00pm is the UK Black Entrepreneur and Professional New Year Party at Holiday Inn Express Hotel Stratford, 196 High Street, Stratford, E15 2NE. This networking party for business owners, entrepreneurs, investors and professionals cost £15.00, RSVP here

Saturday 25^th January

From 11.00am to 5.00pm Open the Gate presents The African Market at Old Spitalfields Market, Shoreditch, E1 6EW, with an eclectic range of original and ethical fashion, accessories, jewellery, skin and hair care products, shoes, books, music arts and much more. Entry is FREE!

At 3.00pm NABSS holds its Monthly Workshop on Educational Advocacy at Birkbeck University, Stratford Circus, University Square, Stratford, 1 Salway Road, Stratford, E15 1NF. This interactive session will teach parents how to engage with schools and colleges, children’s and carers/ parents rights with Hellen Adom. Register for this FREE event here.

At 9.00pm Dele Sosimi’s Afrobeat Vibrations will be shaking at The New Empowering Church, 1a Westgate Street, E8 3RL. As well as the Dele Sosimi Afrobeat Orchestra, there will be special guests Fellowship of Groove as well as stalwart DJ Koichi Sakai on the decks. Admission is £8.00 before 10.00pm, £12.00 thereafter or £10.00 in advance from here.

Sunday 26^th January

At 6.00pm is Michelles Urban Quiz Nite at Cottons Rhum Jungle, 70 Exmouth Market, EC1R 4QP. This monthly event is an urban trivia quiz with questions on film, TV, music, sport, world affairs, general knowledge, charades, name that tune with an urban twist, there is a set menu serving African Caribbean food. Admission is £7.00

At 3.00pm the African Caribbean Book Club hosts Meet the Author: Bernadine Evaristo at 5^th View, 5^th Floor, Waterstones bookstore, 203-206 Piccadilly, W1J 9LE. The Book Club will be discussing the authors latest work ‘Mr Loverman’ after which the author herself will attend to answer questions and discuss the book

At 7.00pm Lela Lounge presents Talk To Me: Lock and Key Party, at the Stone Bar, 68-70 Honor Oak Park, SE23 1DY. This dating event is aimed at over 21s, each male will receive a key and females a lock and as the evening progresses go round the room seeing which key opens which lock. Every time a lock opens you get a new lock and get entered into a raffle draw. Admission is £15.00 from here.

Sunday 12 January 2014

Week of 13th January: Police Officer Recruitment, Mwalimu Express, Mali: One Year After, Poetry Meets Art, Piracy of East and West Africa, Desert Rock, Reading in African Languages, Congolese Music, Mama Africa, Nigeria Dialogue Gala Night

Kudual (Hello in Dinka),

As we creep into mid January Proud to be African Clothing we are happy to share with you a wide range of interesting events, from poetry, drumming, comedy to movies, talks and presentations.

Monday 13^th January

At 11.00am Chatham House presents UK-Africa Relations: Reflections on the Role of African Diplomacy in London at the Royal Institute of International Affairs, Chatham House, 10 St James Square, SW1Y 4LE. His Excellency Professor Kwaku Danso-Boafo (Ghanaian High Commisioner) will reflect on his time in London, developments in UK-Africa relations and the role of diplomatic engagements in informing and strengthening bilateral relations. To attend contact ChrisVandome

At 6.00pm is the London is YOU! Police Officer Recruitment Meet and Learn Session at Employment Academy, 29 Peckham Road, Peckham, SE5 8UA. The Metropolitan Police is undertaking a comprehensive recruitment programme to recruit 5,000 more police officers by 2015, this represents a huge opportunity to boost the proportion of black police officers. This event will give people an opportunity to learn about a career in the police, ask questions and network. Followed by light refreshments, this is a FREE event, RSVP here.

At 6.30pm BBM/BMC hosts Araning: The importance of African Names In History and our daily lives at the Mayors Parlour, Harrow Civic Centre, 1 Station Road, Harrow, HA1 2XY. Hosted by history consultant Kwaku will introduce the concept of araning and its importance in re telling African Global history. Register for this FREE event here.

At 7.00pm is Lets Talk... at Juno Bar, 134 Shoreditch High Street, Shoreditch, E1 6JE, hosted by Mikey and Essay, this monthly discussion night features sharp tongues and even sharper opinions. Admission is FREE, more details here

At 7.00pm Kayd Somalis Arts and Culture presents The Horn of Africa: Can Somalis be partners for development at Khalili Lecture Theatre, SOAS, Thornhaugh Street, Russell Square, WC1H 0XG. Professor Ahmed Ismail Samatar will talk about the imperative of development faced by Somali people in the Horn of Africa and whether Somalis can be partners in these development challenges. Register for this FREE event here.

Tuesday 14^th January

At 4.00pm Chatham House presents Mali: One Year after the French Intervention at the Royal Institute of International Affairs, Chatham House. Marc-Antoine Perouse de Montclos (French Institute of Geopolitics) with discussant Paul Melly (Chatham House) will present the findings of the new book La Tragedie Malienne, which focuses on the long term internal problems that have hindered Malis development. To attend contact Chris Vandome

At 6.30pm GlobalNet21 and Africa Changemeakes Group presents Doing and Learning at The Hub, 1^st Floor New Zealand House, 80 Haymarket, SW1Y 4TE. This event will feature Guy Cowley and Margaret Thorli who will share the visions and challenges of their practical projects in Africa, what they’ve learned and lessons for the future. Guy will discuss his work with education oriented charities in Tanzania and Kenya with strong ICT elements, Margaret runs a business and employability foundation in Sierra Leone.

At 7.30pm is Poetry Meets Art 5 at Passing Clouds, 1 Richmond Road, Dalston, E8 4AA. Featuring poets and spoken word artists Anthony Anaxagorou, Yomi Greeds Sode, Mell B. Nyoko, Pfe Freedom, graffiti artist Beth Robb, artist Catherine Hall. More information here

At 8.00pm the W Film Club screens Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom at W London, Leicester Square, 10 Wardour Street, W1D 6QF. Starring Idris Elba and Naomie Harris, this biopic chronicles Nelson Mandelas life journey from childhood to his election as President of South Africa. Tickets start from £15.00 from here.

Wednesday 15^th January

At 1.00pm the UCL Faculty of Law presents Piracy of East and West Africa: The role of the UN office of Drugs and Crime at Moots Court, UCL Faculty of Law, Bentham House, Endsleigh Gardens, WC1H 0EG. Chaired by Dr Douglas Guilfoyle (UCL Laws) with Alan Cole (UNODC Counter Piracy Program Coordinator) and Robert McLaughlin (UNODC Senior Advisor) this talk provides an opportunity to hear the practical international efforts to cooperate and suppress piracy in East and West Africa. This is a FREE event, RSVP here.

At 7.00pm is Congolese Music with Pan African Consciousness in the Brunei Lecture Theatre, SOAS with Kinshasa born, Zimbabwe based Mulele Matondo Afrika marks his solo debut with a move away from his home grown Congolese style to what he describes as ‘conscious music’. To RSVP this FREE performance please email or phone 0207 898 4500

At 8.00pm is Desert Rock with the Trans Siberian March Band at Rich Mix, 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, Shoreditch, E1 6LA. Desert Rock combine North African and West African rhythms with earthy, trancy blues. The Trans Siberian March band is a 13 piece Balkan Brass band. This is a FREE event, more details here from here.

Thursday 16^th January

At 10.30pm the African Development Forum presents Creative Africa Club Night at Electrowerkz, 7 Torrens Street, EC1V 1NQ. The proceeds from this night of Afrobeats will go towards the cost of hosting the Creative Africa Forum. Tickets are £5.00 from here.

At 6.30pm Young Black Grads presents New Year, New Goals at the O2 Workshop, 229 Tottenham Court Road, W1T 7QG. This workshop will feature speakers such as Mohammed Ali (Entrepreneur) who will be giving a talk and Q&A on ‘How to make your goals a reality’ and Lorna Stewart (Black 100+) who will lead small interactive pod sessions on ‘How to set goals to find your potential’. This FREE event starts with a drinks reception, RSVP here

Friday 17^th January

From 2.00pm to 4.00pm the University of KwaZulu Natal presents Reading in African Languages: Developing literacies and reading methodologies at SOAS, Thornhaugh Street. Hosted by Professor Lutz Marten (SOAS) the seminar will be led by Professor Rosemary Wildsmith-Cromarty (University of KwaZulu-Natal) with Professor Elizabeth Pretorius (UNISA) and Dr Joanne Westbrook (University of Sussex). This seminar seeks to explore whether children learning to read in their native language as opposed to the former colonial language has an effect on performance, to attend, register by email.

At 3.00pm is a theatre industry performance of Janet Etuk’s play Dead Grass at the Arcola Theatre, 24 Ashwin Street, Dalston, E8 3DL. This play inspired by the Nigerian-Biafran War, this is a showing of scenes and songs as part of a work in progress, to attend, email here

At 6.00pm is Dakar Daka featuring Abdoulaye Samb and Minnjiaraby at The Russet Amhurst Terrace, Hackney Downs Studios, E8 2BT. Senegalese musician Abdoulaye Samb and his band will be performing Mbalax, a fusion of Fula and Mandinka traditional rhythms with soul, blues and jazz. Also performing will be griot Jally Kebba Susso on his kora and DJ Wizz Jeezy on the decks. Tickets are £5.00 before 9.00pm and £7.00 after, more information here.

At 7.00pm KMT and Boulevard La Palma present Mama Africa at Arch 365, 15-16 Lendal Terrace, SW4 7UX, with resident DJs Oya Bun, Bogossy Freshfrenchy and KMT on rotation playing hip life, afrobeats, coupe decale, afro deep house, tribal, Latin, ancestral, Portuguese and Brazilian

At 7.30pm Save the Congo presents Africa’s Classics: Celebrating Lumumba’s Legacy with JJ Bola at the Human Rights Action Centre, Amnesty International, 17-25 New Inn Yard, EC2A 3EA. This night seeks to be a remembrance/ commemoration of Patrice Lumumba and an expression of Congolese culture via music and poetry funds raised go to Save the Congos campaigns. Tickets are £6.00 (£5.00 early bird) from here.

Saturday 18^th January

From 9.00am to 1.00pm is GenVoices UK Chapter- 100k Voices- The Diaspora Dream for Nigeria at City Building, 14 Pratt Mews, NW1 0AD. This event seeks to build on the success of the Occupy Nigeria movement to gather as many young progressive Nigerian voices together, with a flagship event in Lagos broadcast to each of Nigeria’s 36 states as well as Abuja, New York, Cyprus and others. There will be presentations and panel discussions. RSVP this FREE event here

From 2.00pm to 5.30pm Making Every Woman Count presents Celebrating the Third Anniversary of the African Women’s Decade 2010-2020 at the Brunei Gallery, SOAS, University of London. There will be 3 sessions at this event marking the publication of MEWC’s annual report on the progress African countries have made regarding women’s rights and gender equality. Session 1 is 10 years after the adoption of the Maputo Protocol on Women’s Rights in Africa and 3 moderated by Diakhoumba Gassama (UNDP) with Fatuma Kinsi Abbas (Pastoralist Girls Initiative, Kenya), Micheline Rayololonarisoa (UN Development Funds for Women), Naayosuwa Otoo-Oyortey (FORWARD), Sylvie Aboa-Bradwell (African Peoples Advocacy), Patricia Lemour (Aspire Education group) and Dahabo Ahmed (Voice of Somali Women Movement). Session 2: Working with Men and Boys to advance Gender Equality, with Eric Chinje (KRL International), Sam Onigbanjo (Women4Africa), Ernest Okwudike (Alliance 54) and Rene C. Mugenzi (London Centre for Social Impact) and Session 3: Internet, Information and Technology as tools of empowerment, moderated by Hannah Pool (Journalist), with Anne-Rachel Inne (AFRINIC), Jessica Horn (Akiiki Consulting), Mariemme Jamme (Spot One Global Solutions), Heather Katsonga-Woodward (Neno Natural), Temi Oladepo (University of Warwick) and Sarah Giaziri (Rory Peck Trust). Register for this FREE event here.

At 2.45pm the African Caribbean Book Club presents Meet the Author: Nadifa Mohamed (Orchard of the Lost Souls) at Heights Bar and Lounge, St Georges Hotel, Langham Place, Regent Street, W1B 2QS. The author will be discussing her second book Orchard of the Lost Souls, with the book club, with a Q&A followed by a general discussion about the themes raised in the book which see’s 1988 Somalia through the eyes of 3 women.

At 5.00pm is the Nigeria Dialogue Gala Night at Plaisterers Hall, 1 London Wall, EC2Y 5JU. This night of entertainment, networking, fine dining, games and dancing to raise funds for a series of events in the lead up to the 2015 Nigerian elections to enlighten the public about good governance. Confirmed speakers are Abike Dabiri, Femi Gbajabiamila, Senator Babajide Omoworare, Dr Sam Amadi. Tickets start from £75.00 from here.

Sunday 19^th January

From 11.00am to 3.00pm is the Numbi Family Workshop at Rich Mix, an introductory djembe drum workshop, where you can learn traditional rhythms and find your inner beat, ideal for families, Tickets are £10.00 (£5.00) concs or £10.00 for a family of 4

From 2.00pm to 6.00pm Mwalimu Express returns to Rich Mix, London's favourite African family event, will feature Coco Mbassi (Cameroun) live on stage, African films from Screenstation, stalls with crafts, clothing, CD’s and books, kids dance fun sessions with Lucy Agnell John, Awale with the Oware Society and much much fun. And it's all FREE!!!

At 6.30pm the Diaspora Debating Association debates Black Music is in a Crisis at the Mella Centre. Two teams of DJ’s, presenters, lyricists and promoters will challenge each other with powerful, passionate and persuasive arguments. Admission is £4.00

At 7.30pm is the Africa Centre Comedy Night at Rich Mix. This night offers a dazzling selection of the best African comedians from the continent and the diaspora and it’s FREE

At 9.00pm Jazzmo’thology presents Jammin’ with The Westley Joseph Collective at Bar 414, 414 Coldharbour Lane, Brixton, SW9 8LF. This live performance features Westley Joseph (drums), Noreen Stewart (vocals), Dave Ital (guitar), Orefo Orekwue (bass), Lex Cameron (keys) and a surprise special guest. There will be delicious cuisine by Etta’s Seafood Kitchen as well. Admission is £5.00, more details here.

Monday 6 January 2014

Week of 6th January: HAPPY NEW YEAR!! SOUTH Sudan at the Frontline Club,, Asa Baako Festival Launch, Film night at the Mella Centre, Juwon Ogungbe’s Progress Ceremony, Soweto Kinch Trio, Adeose Wallace

Anuli Aro Ofuu (Happy New Year in Igbo),

All at Proud to be African Clothing hope you had a great Christmas and New Years celebration and enter 2014 with renewed energy and vigour.

Proud to be African Clothing garments are now being stocked at the Mella Centre, 73 Oxford Street, W1D 2EP, situated in the heart of Londons shopping district, business is roaring already!!

The International ROOTS Festival Trip to Gambia takes place between 9^th and 17^th May 2014. The Roots programme is designed to enrich and enlighten people of African descent, by integrating with various tribal groups as they go on a pilgrimage through different villages embracing Gambian traditions, customs, values and culture. The cost is £699.00 for 7 nights, £899.00 for 14 nights and £1,099.00 for 21 nights (inclusive of accommodation, bed and breakfast and airfare). To secure a place a deposit of £250.00 is required with final payment by 31^st March 2014. For more details enquire by email or check the website or else phone Angie on 07903 591 426 or 07508 913 114 or Hughie on 07940 081 651 or: 0203 441 6277

A quiet week but some great events to look forward to.

Tuesday 7^th January

At 7.00pm the Royal Africa Society presents Africa in 2014: Prospects and Forecasts at the Brunei Lecture Theatre, SOAS< Thornhaugh Street, Russell Square, WC1H 0XG. Chaired by Richard Dowden (Royal Africa Society), with Lanre Akinola (This is Africa), Razia Khan (Standard Chartered Bank), Yemisi Mokuolu (Hatch Africa) and Patrick Smith (Africa Confidential) . this panel of experts will consider some of the pressing issues and questions facing the continent this year. Followed by a drinks reception, register for this FREE event here.

Wednesday 8^th January

At 7.00pm the Frontline Club presents South Sudan- What does the future hold for the worlds youngest country? at the Frontline Club, 13 Norfolk Place, W2 1QJ. This panel of experts, journalists and aid workers will discus what the future holds for Salva Kiir and his deputy Riek Machar as fighting between their respective supporters escalates. The panel will consist of Heather Pagano (Medecins Sans Frontieres), James Copnall (BBC) and Mukesh Kapila (University of Manchester). Tickets are £12.50 from here

Thursday 9th January

At 9.30am Chatham House presents Responding to Maritime Crime and Development Challenges in the Gulf of Guinea: Policy and Capacity Gaps in Fighting Maritime Crime at the Royal Institute of International Affairs, Chatham House, 10 St James Square, SW1Y 4LE. This meeting draws on the outcomes of the G8+++ Friends of the Gulf of Guinea Summit held in Abuja, focusing on commercial priorities and challenges to policy implementation. With Justice Dennis Dominic Adjei (Court of Appeal, Ghana), Clemens Beyer (INTERPOL), Robert Dussey (Minister of Foreign Affairs, Togo), Joanne Hamer (Foreign and Commonwealth Office), Christina Katsouris (Chatham House), Commander Loic Moudouma (ECCAS). To attend contact Adjoa Anyimadu

At 5.30pm Hatch Events presents Asa Baako Festival Crowd funding Campaign Launch at the Mella Centre, 73 Oxford Street, W1D 2EP. The Asa Baako, Music, Arts and Dance Festival in Ghana aims to use African music and culture to challenge perceptions about Africa and Africans. There will be presentations by the organisers, a performance by M3nsa of the FOKN Bois as well as networking and press inter views. RSVP this FREE event here.

Friday 10^th January

At 6.30pm The Soweto Kinch Trio will be performing at the Victoria and Albert Museum Cafe, Cromwell Road, Kensington, SW7 2RL. The saxophonist and hip hop artist will be performing in this iconic space with his trio. This is a FREE event.

At 7.00pm the Black Cinema Club will be screening The Intouchables at the Mella Centre. This French comedy set in Paris features a rich, quadriplegic aristocrat and Driss a young African immigrant. This is a FREE screening

At 8.00pm Adeose Wallace performs at Green Note, 106 Parkway, NW1 7AN. The legendary master percussionist will be performing unplugged jazz, afro funk, blues and psychedelia. Tickets are £10.00 from here

At 8.00pm is Juwon Ogungbe’s Progress Ceremony, Upstairs at the Ritzy, Brixton Oval, Coldharbour Lane, SW2 1JG. This multimedia contemporary Yoruba ritual in Juwon’s trademark Afropera style with jazz and funk music by the band. Tickets are £5.00 from here or £8.00 on the door.

Saturday 11^th January

At 6.00pm is the Afro-Cuban Dance Course at The Place, Dance Studios, 17 Dukes Road, WC1H 9PY. This 12 week Oshun and Elegua dance course with Damarys Farres will teach the steps, techniques, coordination and timing of Cuban orisha dancing . Early board booking starts from £79.00 from here

Sunday 12^th January

At 6.00pm is the Igbo Culture and Support Network January Meeting at Zubi Bar, 144 Holloway Road, N7 8DD, themed motivation it will feature Social Games, a presentation on Biafra, Networking, Motivational Talk, Open Mic and then dancing. Admission is £5.00, more info here.