The African Ambassadors’ Group accredited to the State of Qatar hosted a grand celebration to commemorate the 63rd anniversary of Africa Day, bringing together senior Qatari officials, diplomats, representatives of international organizations, and members of the African community in Qatar.
The ceremony was attended by H.E. Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz al Kawari, Minister of State and President of Qatar National Library; H.E. Dr. Ahmed bin Hassan Al-Hammadi, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; H.E. Dr. Khalid bin Ibrahim Al-Sulaiti, Director-General of Katara Cultural Village; H.E. Ambassador Ibrahim Yusuf Fakhro, Director of the Protocol Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; H.E. Dr. Ali bin Ghanem Al Hajri, Director of the African Affairs Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; H.E. Ali Ibrahim Ahmed, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps; H.E. Dr. Philip Mshelbila, Secretary-General of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF), along with ambassadors, heads of mission, representatives of international organizations, and a large number of African nationals residing in Qatar.
Addressing the gathering, H.E. Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al-Kawari highlighted the significance of Africa Day as a symbol of unity, solidarity, and the continent’s remarkable journey toward freedom, dignity, and self-determination.
Reflecting on his long-standing engagement with Africa, Al-Kawari recalled his tenure as Qatar’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, during which he chaired the UN committee responsible for decolonization and the struggle against apartheid. He noted that those experiences deepened his appreciation for Africa’s resilience and determination, particularly witnessing Zimbabwe’s independence and working closely with African leaders committed to freedom and justice.
He also recalled visiting numerous African countries during his 2017 campaign for the position of Director-General of UNESCO, describing the warm reception he received and the strong appreciation for Qatar’s constructive role across the continent.
“Today, Africa stands at a pivotal moment in its history,” Al-Kawari said, emphasizing that the continent’s youthful population, abundant resources, growing economies, and increasing global influence position it to play a defining role in shaping the future.
He praised Africa’s growing commitment to regional cooperation, economic integration, and self driven development, noting that the State of Qatar views Africa as a valued strategic partner. He highlighted the steady expansion of cooperation between Qatar and African countries in diplomacy, trade, education, development, and cultural exchange.
“As we celebrate Africa Day, let us reaffirm our belief in Africa’s ability to shape its own destiny, harness its immense potential, and secure a future of prosperity, stability, and opportunity for its people,” he said, expressing confidence that Africa-Qatar relations will continue to strengthen in the years ahead.
Speaking on behalf of the African diplomatic community, Thierno Abdoulaye Sow, Ambassador of Guinea and President of the African Ambassadors Group in Qatar, described Africa Day as a celebration of a vision, an ambition, and a promise of a united, sovereign, and prosperous Africa.
This year’s commemoration was held under the theme “Sixty-three Years of Unity, Integration and Development.” Ambassador Sow said the occasion honours the legacy of the founding fathers of the Organization of African Unity, who laid the foundation for a continent free from domination and committed to solidarity and progress.
“Our celebration today is a message to the world: Africa is moving forward, Africa is transforming, and Africa is inspiring,” he said. “Unity is not a slogan but a responsibility; dignity is not a privilege but a right; and development is not optional but essential.”
The ambassador expressed the African Ambassadors Group’s gratitude to the State of Qatar under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, for its continued support of African communities and its growing partnerships with African nations.
He noted that Africa-Qatar relations are built on trust, mutual respect, economic cooperation, investment, and solidarity, with collaboration expanding across sectors including education, healthcare, energy, food security, and sports.
Ambassador Sow also reaffirmed the Group’s commitment to promoting the image of a modern and ambitious Africa, strengthening South-South cooperation, supporting African diasporas, and deepening relations between Africa and Qatar.
In a special message, he extended his best wishes to African national teams that have qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, expressing confidence that they will showcase the continent’s talent, determination, and excellence on the global stage.
Adding a colourful cultural dimension to the celebration, participating African countries showcased their rich heritage through exhibitions of traditional artworks and handicrafts, as well as displays of authentic cuisine. Music and dance performances from across the continent captivated guests and highlighted Africa’s cultural diversity, creativity and shared sense of unity.
The event concluded with expressions of appreciation to members of the African Ambassadors Group, heads of missions, partners, and supporters whose efforts contributed to the success of the celebration, underscoring the spirit of unity and cooperation that continues to define Africa’s
