Africa Agenda A gathering of the community hosted by the University of Denver Students for Africa at the Maglione Hall. Monday, November 11th, 2024
The recent community dinner organized by the Students for Africa group at the University of Denver’s Korbel School of International Studies was special. It was special because the concept of uniting the community for dialogue occurs only occasionally in this town. As a participant, I had not seen anything like this for quite some time, especially one that was led by students.
Held on November 11th at Maglione Hall, the event brought together African and African American community leaders and others to discuss how to build and strengthen each other despite the circumstances.
Infused with music, food, storytelling, and reflection, participants appealed for unity, solidarity, and a shared purpose enabling peace and development.
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In a conversation nurtured by faculty from the Africa program at Korbel, the SFA facilitators went around the table and asked what the current environment means for Africa as a continent and what the future holds.
“There is a need for African students in a challenged world, and Africans, to understand the context in which you are living,” said Dr. Malcolm Newton, who leads the United Alliance for African Communities. He appealed for everyone to “help the community heal.”
Africa Agenda Additionally, extensive discussions took place about US foreign policy and its impact on the African continent. Abigail Kabandula, director of the Africa Center, highlighted the importance of US aid in the region, the continuing conflict in Sudan, and US backing for crucial issues like HIV-AIDS as essential factors for the future.
“I also want to highlight the fact that the Africa we see today is not the same Africa of ten years ago. The continent has changed…,” she said.
For the 2024 academic year, DU’s SFA group is led by President Akosua Otiwaa Ampofo.
