St Columb’s Hall is set to come alive once again this month as the city prepares to celebrate Africa Day 2026 - a vibrant showcase of African culture and community.

The free, family-friendly event will take place on Saturday, May 23 at 3pm, hosted by the African Caribbean Community Network (ACCN) and supported by four local housing associations - Apex, Ark, Choice and Radius - through the ‘Housing for All’ Shared Housing Programme.

The event is also supported by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, Derry City and Strabane District Council, St Columb’s Hall Trust and Greater Shantallow Area Partnership.

Building on the success of previous years, Africa Day 2026 promises an exciting programme of live music and dance, cultural performances, interactive workshops, children’s activities, and a rich variety of African cuisine. Organisers are once again expecting significant community interest, welcoming people of all ages and backgrounds to take part in this celebration of diversity and inclusion.

A group of young performers from ACCN Omagh were one of several acts entertaining the crowds at the Africa Day event in St Columb's Hall last year.

placeholder image — A group of young performers from ACCN Omagh were one of several acts entertaining the crowds at the Africa Day event in St Columb's Hall last year.

Doreen Murugi, CEO of ACCN, said: “Africa Day is a powerful celebration of culture, identity and unity. It is an opportunity for our community to share traditions, stories and experiences while also creating meaningful connections across cultures. We look forward to welcoming everyone once again to St Columb’s Hall for what promises to be a joyful and inspiring event.”

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Ruairí McHugh, commented: “Africa Day is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the vibrant cultures, traditions and contributions of African communities who are an important part of our shared community. The event at St Columb’s Hall reflects the diversity that strengthens our Council area and provides an opportunity for people of all backgrounds to come together. It’s also a chance to learn from one another and celebrate inclusion and respect.”

Speaking on behalf of the four supporting housing associations, Warren Kerr, Good Relations Officer at Apex Housing Association added: “We are proud to support Africa Day again this year, recognising the important role that cultural events play in fostering understanding and building relationships.

"Through our shared housing communities, we are committed to creating inclusive spaces where diversity is valued and celebrated. Events like this help bring people together and strengthen our shared society.”

The Africa Day celebration in 2025 that was organised by the African Caribbean Community Network (ACCN), supported by four local housing associations - Apex, Ark, Choice and Radius - through the ‘Housing for All’ Shared Housing Programme.

Andy Mullan, Good Relations Officer with Northern Ireland Housing Executive commented: “We are delighted to continue our support for Africa Day, which provides a fantastic opportunity to celebrate diversity and promote positive community relations. The event reflects the spirit of inclusivity that is central to the Housing for All Programme.”

Africa Day is being supported by the Department for Communities and the Housing Executive’s ‘Housing for All’ Shared Housing Programme. The Programme has its origins in the NI Executive Together: Building a United Community Strategy which reflects the Executive’s commitment to improving community relations and continuing the journey towards a more united and shared society.

Locally, Apex, Ark, Choice and Radius each deliver shared housing developments across the city - including Woodlands Avenue, Tillie and Henderson, Rosses Gate and Ebrington Oaks - alongside good relations programmes that promote inclusion, wellbeing, arts, culture, education and community engagement.

A potential of £45m will be invested in these shared neighbourhoods and their associated good relations plans.

Tickets can be booked via www.ticketsource.com – just search for Africa Day.