Cameroon represented at the African National and Provincial Association of the United African Community Organization: Celebration of 21st Annual African Cultural Picnic in Detroit, Michigan State, USA. July 13, 2024.
By Nchumbonga George Lekelefac, International Advocate for the Oppressed; Voice of the Voiceless; Defender of the Defenseless and of Fundamental Human Rights; the Rivivalist, Elucidator and Revolutionist Canon Lawyer/Jurist; Friend to the Vulnerable and a lover of no Oppressor/Tyrant.
Introduction
On Thursday, July 4, the Independence Day in the USA, all the African National and Provincial Association including Cameroonians joined together as a family to celebrate the 21st Annual African Cultural Picnic in Detroit, Michigan State, USA at the Eliza Howell Park located at 23751 Fenkell St, Detroit, Michigan, 48223. The Eliza Howell Park is a public park in Brightmoor, Detroit, Michigan located on the east of Telegraph Road between Fenkell Avenue and Schoolcraft Avenue. It has 250 acres (100 ha) of land, making it the fourth largest park in Detroit; this is about one fourth of the area of Belle Isle or .25 square miles (0.65 km2). A greenway links Howell with Stoepel Park. Howell has a 1.5-mile (2.4 km) nature trail that, in 2009, was recently constructed. According to many, this was the most appropriate place which could accommodate the thousand Africans who gathered for this important African cultural event.
I personally made the 30-hour “road round trip” from Oklahoma to Detroit in order to be present and to witness for myself this significant cultural event in my humble capacity as the founder of the Nchumbonga Lekelefac Institute of Research, Documentation, Language and Culture, USA” which has the mission to research, document events for posterity and foster culture and languages. Why did I drive the 30-hour round road trip from Oklahoma to Detroit, Michigan? When I die, I would like to be remembered as someone who promoted Culture, languages, Research, Documentation and spirituality. My hobbies are traveling, gardening, cooking and cultural exchanges which nourishes and expands our horizon. I traveled to document this important cultural event founded 21 years ago. Why is culture important? It was Prof. Dr. Bernard Nsokika Fonlon who underscored that “Culture is to a nation like a soul to a man, that is, the principle of unity, of life and continuity. A nation, therefore, is not merely so many millions of people inhabiting so many thousands of square miles and held together by the precarious grip of an external agent like a government. A nation, thanks to its culture, is also, and essentially, a unit of thought and feeling. Now and again, each community throws up, from among its masses, individuals with special gifts of head and heart and hand, individuals who, because they see farther and deeper into themselves and into their world, individuals who, because they feel more keenly, more rudely, the thrill of communal joy, the shock of communal tragedy, individuals who, because they are gifted with language of lasting beauty, become, as it were, the mouthpiece of the Zeitgeist.” (Professor Doctor Bernard Nsokika Fonlon, in Abbia N.1 – February, 1963). As you could see, culture is absolutely important because it traces our roots and traditions. Just as a tree without roots falls and dies, so too an individual who does not have a culture or traditions. Culture is therefore to a human being just as the roots tis to a tree. Without culture, the human being has no identity. Just as without the roots, the tree cannot stand. The aim of this article is to give an in-depth account of the various speeches that were made on this important African festival.
Activities of the Event
The Master of ceremonies of the event was Mistress of Ceremony, Mrs Ebele Obua. The event began at 10 am with an Opening Ceremony. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rDuvIbvMRj8). Secondly, the participants sang the USA National anthem, Black National Anthem and the South African National Anthem. Thirdly, Prayer and Libation was done. Fourthly, there was a Flag Ceremony in which respect was paid to the flag of the USA and all other nations present. Fifthly, there was a welcome address by UACO PRESIDENT, the highly distinguished President Moses Lukwago. Sixthly, there was a Recognition of Dignitaries ceremony by UACO Vice President Mrs. Bridgett M’ Bayo. Seventhly, Community Speakers delivered their speeches between 12 to 2 PM. Eighthly, there were Kiddie/Activity Corner-Face Painting-Bounce House- Arts and Crafts- Sack Race-Pony Rides (for children 13 and under). Furthermore, there were Activities and Entertainment Raffle, Dance Competition from 3-6PM. Then, Artist Performance started at 4PM. After that, Doccer Tournament ran throughout the day Youth Section. The number of youth present were uncountable like the stars in the sky. Moreover, there was the Presentation of Awards by the Founder/ Executive Dr. Salewa Olafioye. Finally, the cultural event ended with a Vote of Thanks by Dr. Clifford Owhor in his capacity as Program Director.
Interviews Conducted
During the cultural ceremony, I conducted some important interviews:
(1)Interview with Prof. Dr. Clifford Owhor, Program Director of United African Community Organisation, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJ6gEldTSsw;
(2) Interview with a Cameroonian, Etso, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pfnIaVN3BEU;
(3) Interview with the Youth, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-l9kPyEmSw;
(4) Interview with Mr. Bessiake, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdWWvDdGK6k;
(5) Interview with Pastor Henry, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gJ2FmDHu59g;
(6) Traditional Dances, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mgNYs_OCExg;
(7) Interview with a Nigerian from Awka, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pvNbE0aHzTY;
(8) Interview with Mr. Francis, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dadpRT5BYsc;
(9) Interview with Mrs. Bridget, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xs5AXIE_J_k;
(10) Interview with Mrs. Blessing on African Market, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yR38rXmyV9k
Associations Present
Thirty four (34) associations were presented at this cultural event: They include: 1. Benin Association; 2. Senegal Association; 3. Nigerian Foundation; 4. Guinea Association; 5. Ghana Association; 6. South African Association; 7. Gambia Association; 8. Mali Association; 9. Cote D’ivoire Association; 10. Malawi Association; 11. Uganda Association; 12. Tanzania Association; 13. Liberia Association; 14. Cameroon Association; 15. Women of Distinction, Cameroon Association; 16. African American; 17. Chamber of Commerce; 18. Niger Association; 19. Sierra Leone Association; 20. African Women Association; 21. Odua Association; 22. Ngwa Association, Detroit Chapter; 23. Redeemed Christian Church; 24. Mountain of Fire Church of Pentecostal USA; 25. Muslim Mosque; 26. Apostolic Church of Christ Eko Club of Detroit Ecorse Public School; 27. Yoruba America Community; 28. Wayne County Community College District; 29. Anambra State Association (ASA); 30. Mbaise Cultural Associaiton of Michigan (MCAM); 31. Umo Igbo United Detroit Chapter (UIU); 32. Bassa Association of Michigan; 33. Umuaba-Connect Midwestern USA and Canada; 34. National Association of Nigerian Nurse Practitioners USA Michigan Chapter.
United African Community Organization Executive Members present and Picnic Committee (UACO)
The UACO EXECUTIVES present were: President- Moses Lukwago; Vice President – Mrs. Bridgette M’; Bayo Secretary General – Professor Kumi Akingbehin Treasurer- Antoine Segnegon; Program Director- Dr. Clifford. Owhor Liaison Officer: Asiki Ajamu; Executive Director/ Founder- Dr. Salewa Olafioye while the UACO BOARD OF DIRECTORS present were: Mr Emmanuel Addo Chairman Dr Kemoli Sagala; Chief Dr Alex Aharauka Mr. Paul Aleobua; Dr. Salewa Olafioye – Founder Timothy Moore; Mrs. Bridgett. M’ Bayo Mr &. Mrs. (Rev) Alghali Mr. Moses Lukwago- and President Dr. Clifford Owhor. Moreover, the 21st Annual African Picnic Committee consisted of: Chairman: Dr. Clifford Owhor; Secretary: Pastor Peter Okoro; Assistant Secretary. Ms. Diana. Aremo; Business: Mrs. Ajamu. – Mr. Francis. Asah, Mrs. Ebele Obua Mr. Arkubkwe Mrs. B. M’ mayo Oloye Ifatomilola, Mr. Emeka Chukwuyi. Event coordinator – Queen Cesaire Mr. Antoine Segnegon; Consultant – Mr. Moses lukwago; Administration Dr. Salewa Olafioye; Data – Ms. Elouise. Sirleaf.
Important Messages the 21st Annual African Picnic
During the cultural event, important message were read. They include:
1. Rashida Tlaib, Member of Congress of the United States House of Representative in Washington, DC
Rashida Tlaib, Member of Congress of the United States House of Representative in Washington, DC quantified in an official letter addressed to the united African Community organization: “Dear UACO members, it is my honor to join you in this celebration of the united African Community Organization (UACO) 21st annual Unity Picnic. UACO truly embraces the diversity of our communities’ African heritage across Southeast Michigan. I am so proud to recognize and honor your leadership in fostering cross cultural dialogues and making Michigan a more welcoming place for all. I can think of no better way to celebrate our nation than joining together in celebration of our diversity. Thank you, UACO leadership members, and volunteers for your hard work and dedication to persevering culture and history. Congratulations on twenty-one years of unity, friendship, and community. Sincerely, Rashida Tlaib, Member of Congress”
2. Mr. Moses Lukwago, Eds., UACO President for 2022 to 2024
Mr. Moses Lukwago, Eds., UACO President for 2022 to 2024 detailed: “Fellow Africans, I would like to take this opportunity to welcome you all to the 21st celebration of the July 4 African Cultural Festival. This festival enables us to celebrate the independence of this great country, which has become our new homeland. Please, allow me to express my gratitude to all the people who have tirelessly worked to make this 21st UACO Cultural Festival a reality. The challenges have been many. We have had to overcome the malaise fostered by the Covid-19 epidemic. This epidemic led to the untimely deaths of our friends. They included our founding Qene Mother Dr. Nana Osun Dara Nefertiti El Ajamu, to whom we dedicate this festival. We also lost our Board member Baba Aremo and patron Otunba Dr. Adekunle Emmanuwl Oshiyoye. We have also lost several members since 2019. We extend our condolences to their families. May their souls rest in eternal peace. This festival is rooted in our African tradition of celebrating together by sharing earth other’s humanity (Ubuntu). It is intentionally setup in a picnic format to display the uniqueness and diversity of the African people. We have national, ethnic, religious and family pavilions. Please, take time to visit each other’s pavilion. Feel free to share your smile and laughter. Take time to enjoy the beauty of our costumes and to sample the tasty foods. This festival also comes at a special time of UACO’s transition to a new generation of leaders. The youth have planned and executed most of today’s activities. They are ready to take on the responsibility of leading UACO to the future. Please join me to thank them and support their efforts in shaping a new UACO. This event also marks an important milestone of gender equality. Madame Bridgette M’Bayo will become the next President of UACO. She is a true pan African and humanist and a tested community and business leader. She comes from Sierra Leonne. Please give her your full support. Happy Independence Day America. United We Stand and May God bless us all. Have fun at the 21st July 4 Africa Cultural Festival. Mr. Moses Lukwago, Eds., UACO President for 2022 to 2024. As One Who Serves.”
3. Mrs. Bridget Hamed-M’bayo Vice-President of UACO and President of Sierra Leone Association of Michigan
Mrs. Bridget Hamed-M’bayo Vice-President of UACO and President of Sierra Leone Association of Michigan itemized in her speech: “It is my pleasure and honor to deliver this message as we celebrate such a momentous and inspiring occasion, “UACO July 4th African 21st Cultural Festival.” This day is a testament to the immense potential and resilience that UACO represent in shaping the future of our African-US community in Michigan. It reminds us of the critical role that UACO play in the social development, and peace, to our African-US community in Michigan. As we celebrate UACO July 4th African 21st Cultural Festival, it is important to encourage our young adults to become actively involved in participation in the growth of the organization, so that our African-US community can be served according to the organization goals, beliefs by articulating the organization by-laws to guide us through. Let us embrace this day with enthusiasm and determination so that we can empower, support, our young generation, as they are the architects of Africa’s future. They are not just leaders of tomorrow; they are the leaders of today. They are catalysts for change, driving innovation and progress in various fields to grow UACO. It is our hope that their energy and idealism will help us to bridge divide, foster understanding, and drive positive change. Our goal is that this 21st African Festival will continue to nurture our young generation so that they will become motivated to be a part of this great organization. The Executive Director, President and its executive body and all its board members are looking forward to this profound change. In conclusion, UACO July 4th African Cultural Festival is a special occasion that invites us to celebrate, reflect, and commit to the development of Africa-US community in Michigan. Let us recognize and appreciate the energy, creativity, and determination of our young generation that are driving the African continent forward. May they continue to inspire, challenge, and lead us towards a prosperous and harmonious Africa-US. I wish you all a happy and joyous UACO July 4th African 21st Cultural Festival.”
4. Dr. Clifford Owhor, Program Director of UACO
Dr. Clifford Owhor, Program Director of UACO identified: “Greetings to every official of UACO, who have gathered here today in order to make this day what we call the “comeback kid”. I would like to thank President Moses Lukwago, Vice President Bridgett M’Bayo, Executive director Dr. Salewa Olafiyoe, Secretary Prof. Kumi Akingbehin, our Liason Officer Mr. Asiki Ajamu and other cabinet members, who worked tirelessly with me in order to make this come back happen! I would like to also welcome all the African communities, Caribbean communities, and American communities as well as our loving family and friends of UACO to this important and highly anticipated picnic after 5 years, due to the unforeseen and unfortunate circumstances that occurred from the covid 19 pandemic. As some of you may know or do not know but UACO is an organization that started first by the Nigerian community right here in Detroit, Michigan in 2003. What started off as one community later grew into multiple communities joining together to share our different culture and life while also joining in the celebration of the United States of America Independence Day, with our family and friends to enjoy free foods and activities that help bring us closer as a community. This small act is what lead to the formation of the United African Community Organization (UACO), with a well drafted constitution to guide all our activities and our mission. UACO is a 503 C under IRS status, at one time we had no building to call our home base, but if not for the efforts of 4 members, who whole heartedly took it upon themselves to put their thoughts and efforts together, they were able to purchase a building which we call the “people house” located at 17316 W. McNichols, Detroit, Michigan 48236. Due to this generous action, it helped push UACO forward as we were able to have a stable environment to hold our meetings and discuss important matters, matters such as sponsorship. Sponsorship has been a problem that we have continued to face over the years as, we are an organization dedicated in scoring our people up, playing important humanitarian services and holding many different projects. Project’s such as the one our Vice President recently did which included travelling to Sierra Leone on a medical mission in hopes of treating and caring for people in the country. As a Medical Director of this organization, I played a vital role during the Covid-19 pandemic, by bringing information to our people about the severity of the virus and emphasizing the importance of following the CDC guidelines during the time of one of the scariest times. As the program director of UACO, I whole heartedly thank all who worked hard to make this picnic possible, and all the members of UACO, participating countries, provincial organizations, vendors, sponsors, friends and families for making this years’ independence a memorable one! In the name of God, we shall meet again next year.”
5. Mr. Emmanuel Addo, UACO Board Chairman
Mr. Emmanuel Addo, UACO Board Chairman expressed: “Brothers and Sisters/Ladies and Gentlemen, Yes & Yes-finally we’re able to gather as families and friends to renew our annual Cultural Picnic. Welcome to all of us blessed to make it through the Evil Covid Pandemic. As we all know, each year on July 4th, we come together to- both Salute the USA’s Independence Anniversary and take the opportunity to celebrate our African Cultural Heritage. While UACO takes lot of pride in leading us to organize this event we draw great inspiration from the community at large: our Elders, Religious, National, Provincial and Youth Leadership Organizations. My fervent hope is that we all avail ourselves from this year’s milieu to further deepen our understanding of the variety of cultural influences that help create this unique atmosphere of peaceful vibrancy. Additionally I hope we would try to get insights into some of the specific programs and activities that UACO has engaged in — even during the past few years of “Covid induced dormancy “ — including our continued efforts to foster a more unified forum towards needful Local, National and International issues. Once again a big welcome to all for coming to celebrate this picnic with us. Enjoy the day!”
6. Sabrina Cesaire, LMSW, CAADC
Sabrina Cesaire, LMSW, CAADC, the event coordinator stated: “Greetings Members and Community Stakeholders, I am so happy to welcome you to the annual African Community Festival. After a brief hiatus, we are back— bigger, stronger, and most importantly, united. Our organization’s commitment is to bring people together, not just in celebration, but in solidarity. I want to wish everyone from the diaspora, Africa, the Caribbean, and the community as a whole a wonderful occasion. In Haiti, we say ‘L’Union fait la force,’ meaning ‘where there is unity, there is strength.’ Have a safe, happy, and joyous holiday on July 4, 2024. Peace and Love.”
7. Founder: Dr. Salewa Ola
The founder of this African organization, Dr. Salewa Ola elucidated: “My name is Salewa Ola. I am a retired Medical Doctor and presently a professor of Anatomy and Physiology at Wayne County Community College here in Detroit, United States. I am also a Community Advocate and I am passionate about positive community development drive. It will interest you to know that I came to the United States (The US) on the scholarship of United Negro College Fund (UNCF) to study Medicine. When I came to The US, I was in my early teen years and was exposed to the quintessential American Academic standards early enough. My mentors were elder brothers Professor Tayo Olafioye of San Diego State University and Pa Oluwole Olafioye, the Director of the National Library of Nigeria. It is these standards that have formed the essence of my values and steadfast commitment to societal growth with my eyes focused on how to always better the lot of humanity. On United African Community Organization (UACO), it was formed on this American soil as a pan-African American movement with the sole aim of uniting Africans in the Diaspora and projecting a common cause and goal for all members, which is geared towards development. The United African Community Organization (UACO) was an offshoot of the Nigeria Foundation of Michigan (NFM). The late Dr. Edwin Dyke was the President, while I served as the Vice President, and that was in 1990. Afterwards, every July 4, the Foundation would mark the USA Independence by holding a picnic and subsequently inviting other African countries to play soccer with us. On becoming President in 1993, the tradition continued. During my tenure, I secured a 4-year contract with the United Nations as a Health Consultant, and invariably yielded the Presidency to my Vice President, Mr. Paul Aleboua, as I went on my consultancy mission to the United Nations (UN). On my return, after my tour of duty at the United Nations, some notable members of diverse African communities approached me with a proposal to form an African organization that will be broader in perspective and can navigate the overwhelming desire of Africans on the American soil to be seen as a united front; some of the leaders include Dr. and Mrs. Ajiri, Dr. Sagala, Mr. Emmanuel Addo, Mr. and Mrs. Alghali, Mr. Samba, Chief Dr. Alex Aharua, Paul Aleboua, Late Queen Mother Osundara, Sister Komeh, and Mr. Poku. Others were Ms. Agnes Branford, Dr. Henry, Mr. and Mrs. Aremo, Mr. Rafiu Ajayi, Mr. Henry Ohia, Mr. Jallo, Mr. Jatta, and a host of others who are too numerous to list…Some objectives of UACO, which the other members of the African communities keyed into at inception, included: bringing unity among Africans, improving relationships between Africans both at home in Motherland Africa and in the Diaspora, to robust unity among African organizations, strengthening immigration and health services, improving bilateral trade understanding between America and Africa, promoting African culture, serving as a point of contact for tourism and Afrocentric development, serving as a point of civil education and center for economic development, projecting English as a second language (ESL), and after-school programs for our children. UACO is a humanitarian organization to teach social and economic skills, provide counsel, youth development, and assistance in times of need.”
8. Banny Doumbia, Former President of UACO and UFIMI
Banny Doumbia, Former President of UACO and UFIMI expounded: “Dear African brothers and sisters, I extend my warm greetings to all of you. It is with great humility and gratitude that I write to you from the beautiful land of the Ivory Coast. I am thankful to the Almighty and to the Unity of African Communities Organization (UACO) for bringing us together. It is indeed a blessing, and I believe it is our collective responsibility to uphold and strengthen this unity. Unfortunately, due to many misunderstandings and lack of mutual agreement have hindered our progress, causing us to miss out on numerous opportunities. For instance, over the past five years, our annual July 4th Barbeque at the park on Fenkell has been a significant event. There was a great opportunity from Detroit mayor Michael Edward Duggan, who expressed his willingness to dedicate the park to the African community and rename our side in Detroit as “African Town.” Unfortunately, due to not being on the same page, we were unable to realize this aspiration. Therefore, I urge us to set aside our differences and come together as one. Just as former President John F. Kennedy once said, “Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country.” Let’s unite not only for our own sake and that of our children and grandchildren but also for the well-being of our future generations (great-grandchildren). I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to our esteemed executive director, Dr. Salewa Olafioye, our esteemed president Moses Lukwago, and all the past and current board members. It is my consistent prayer that God grants us the wisdom and strength to stand united and to lay a solid foundation for the prosperous and impactful generations that will follow us. In closing, I wish to emphasize that any good I express is attributed to the Al-Mighty God, and any shortcomings or negativity are my shortcomings. And, I seek your forgiveness in this regard. With warm regards.”
Conclusion
The 21st Annual African Picnic was indeed an outstanding even which identified, manifested and fostered the African culture among various African immigrants living in the USA.
By: Nchumbonga George Lekelefac, B.Phil. (Mexico); S.T.B. (Rome); J.C.L. /M.C.L. (Ottawa); Dr. theol. (Doctorandus), University of Münster, Germany; Diploma in English, French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, German, and Dutch; International Advocate for the Oppressed; Voice of the Voiceless; Defender of the Defenseless and of Fundamental Human Rights; the Rivivalist and Revolutionist Canon Lawyer/Jurist; Friend to the Vulnerable and a lover of no Oppressor; International Language Tutor of English, French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, and German; Europe/ US Chief Correspondent of “The Sun Newspaper” in Cameroon; The “Herald Tribune” in Cameroon; and “The Horizon Newspaper” in Cameroon; Catholic Media Influencer and Whistle blower; Canon Law Lawyer/Jurist and Researcher; Veteran Contributor on Social Media on Theological and Canonical Enlightenment and Arguments; Founder/ CEO of the “Nchumbonga Lekelefac Institute of Research, Documentation, Language and Culture, USA;” Canon Law Jurist/lawyer of the International League for the Defense of Priests’ Rights, Religious men and women of the Roman Catholic Church (LIDDPRRECR), Paris-France and Representative in North and South America; Member of the Canadian Canon Law Society, Ottawa, Canada; Biographer of Bishop Jerome Feudjio, 6th Diocesan Bishop of St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands and First African Native Bishop in the United States of America from Cameroon, Africa.
My Signature: Nchumbonga George Lekelefac
Email: nchumbong@yahoo.com
“Omnia possumus in Deo qui nos confortat.” (We can do all in God who strengthens us). Philippenses 4:13.