Bridging Borders, Building Peace: Kumbatia Afrika Dream


Kumbatia Afrika Peace Festival (KAPF) is more than just a celebration; it's the culmination of a shared dream fueled by the power of storytelling. It all began with collaborations focused on amplifying refugee voices. 


Youth Voices Community (YVC) and African Grassroots Media Alliance (AGMA) co-produced the film "No One Leaves Home," supported by the Canadian High Commission. This film explored critical issues of refugee documentation and identity.

Sowing the Seeds of Peace

The impact of "No One Leaves Home was far-reaching. Collaborations with the Kenya Human Rights Commission and Under Our Skin Human Rights Film Festival expanded the film's reach, engaging over 2,000 viewers  in critical discussions on coexistence and integration. These discussions included refugee and host communities, key decision-makers, and even members of the Judiciary.

 

Additionally, a forum titled "The Impact of Refugee Voices and Storytelling as a Driver for Social Change" convened practitioners across sectors to explore the transformative power of storytelling.


The success of these initiatives sparked the vision for Kumbatia Afrika Peace Festival. By leveraging power of culture, art and indeed story telling of a united Africa on a larger scale, the festival aims to bridge divides and promote peace across the continent.

Vision

                                            A Peaceful Inclusive Borderless Africa

Mission

To serve as a dynamic platform where Africa's rich cultural diversity and artistic talent unite communities and become a force for peace, inclusion, and social integration.

Fun

A celebration of life, art, and shared human experiences

Integrity

Being honest and transparent to all our stakeholders

Dignity

Recognizing and valuing the inherent worth of every individual

Cultural Sensitivity

Understand and appreciate the different cultural backgrounds and identities of people

Inclusivity

Ensuring that all individuals, regardless of background have an equal opportunity to participate

Festival Offerings

Here is a list of activities that we will be planning. specific activities held each year will depend on the interest of attendees

Cultural Exhibitions

Exhibits of African culture and heritage, such as African clothing/Fashion, art, and handicrafts. Exhibits to be educational and informative to promote understanding and appreciation of African culture.

Dance, Open Mic and Music performances

Showcase to celebrate the diverse musical traditions and dance forms from across the continent. Live performances where anyone can perform without auditioning in the art forms of music, slam poetry, storytelling, comedy, and dance.

Festival Opening Media Event

Garner media attention, generate buzz, and provide comprehensive information about the festival's mission, activities, and objectives, piquing the interest of both the media and the public.

Panel discussions and Keynote speeches

With experts on artistic and cultural expression, peacebuilding, and social integration. Events to provide participants with an opportunity to learn from experts and to share their ideas and perspectives.

Documentary and Film Screenings

Focusing on peace, unity and integration, African culture and history, and contemporary issues.

Skill building Workshops

Practical sessions for artists and community members on Storytelling, career development, digital literacy, etc.

Art Competitions

Provide emerging artists from underserved communities an opportunity to express their perspectives on peace, unity, and the rich cultural heritage of Africa.

Networking Events

Casual meet-and-greets or more formal networking sessions where attendees can make connections that might lead to collaborative opportunities.

Award Gala

To celebrate the achievements of individuals and organizations that are working to promote peace, unity, and social integration in Kenya (and Africa)

The Parade/ Marathon

The festival will offer each year to the Nairobians the opportunity to attend a free and colorful show. Carnival artists will parade through the city center of Nairobi and give a unique show.

Sports competitions & Children Activities

This could bring people together from different communities to compete in friendly competition. This can include a Peace Marathon. To include games, crafts, and other activities that teach children about peace and cooperation. ​

A Marketplace

Food and craft stalls for artisans and vendors to sell their goods, providing economic opportunities for the community. This could feature stalls selling African art, handicrafts, and food. Providing experiences for a variety of African cuisines and crafts.

Investor pitches

Create a platform for emerging artists, community leaders, refugees, and host community members to pitch their initiatives, artworks, tech innovations, and refugee-led programs focused on environmental sustainability to potential investors and partners.

Background

Community Involvement & Co-Creation[GK1] 

The festival embraces a co-creation model, actively seeking community input to shape the programming. This ensures the events reflect diverse voices, needs, and perspectives. This collaborative approach fosters unity, celebrates diversity, and leads to sustainable outcomes. Emphasize the tangible benefits of this approach, such as ensuring inclusivity and sustainability.

 

Partnerships

Kumbatia Afrika Peace Festival believes in the power of collaboration to maximize impact and strengthen community engagement. We invite like-minded individuals and organizations to join in the following ways:

 

  • Programmatic collaboration to expand the scope, depth and diversity of the festival.
  • Providing funding and donations to ensure growth and sustainability of the initiative.
  • Contributing expertise, equipment, and venue spaces to enhance the programs and outreach.
  • Enabling community outreach in collaboration with local organizations and individuals.
  • Referring other partners, potential sponsors, and advisors to broaden the festival’s network and support.
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We hope this exciting journey will amplify crucial voices and build a more inclusive community and Africa as a whole, where peace, understanding, and shared prosperity flourish.

 

Join the Movement! Be a part of building a more peaceful and inclusive Africa. Here are ways you can get involved:

 

  • Volunteer: Lend your skills and passion to make the festival a success.
  • Attend the Festival: Immerse yourself in the vibrant celebration of art, culture, and peace.
  • Donate: Your contribution, big or small, will help us amplify these crucial voices.