During this blog's first year, I endeavored to celebrate the independence days of African countries through creating a dedicated post (you can browse them via this link). I'm not doing that this year but, as several of those celebrations take place in July and August, I thought I'd do a round-up of highlights. I hope you enjoy it. Stay tuned for part 2 – August celebrations – next week.
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Ghana – 1st July
Something for the pundits and technology geeks, something for the music-lovers and something for the fashionistas:
5 Reasons why Ghana is the next African App Powerhouse
Interview with lyrical genius M3NSA
Interview with Fashion Designer Naana B
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Rwanda – 1st July
Fashion, art and music in last year's Independence Day post.
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Burundi – 1st July
Listen to the beauuuutiful sounds of Kidum.
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Somalia – 1st July
Fashion, literature and music in last year's Independence Day post.
Don't forget to show support for those currently suffering from the food crisis in the region.
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Algeria – 5th July
Art, old and contemporary. Find out more in last year's Independence Day post.
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Cape Verde – 5th July
Home of the "barefoot diva," Cesaria Evora. Listen to the various sounds coming from the islands – from Morna to Coladeira, from Funaná to Batuque.
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Malawi – 6th July
I WILL one day make it to the Lake of Stars Festival. Until then, I will live vicariously …
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Comoros – 6th July
The women run things on these islands, and here's how they sound.
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South Sudan – 9th July
Last year, South Sudan did not exist as an independent nation-state. We experienced history last month as it became official.
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Egypt (National Day) – 23rd July
A particularly historically significant year it's been for Egypt too! The Tahrir Square effect lives on.
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Liberia – 26th July
The beautiful results of cross-Atlantic traditions.
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Cesaria Evora image via Syntorama