Farmleigh House, Dublin – May 2025
Under the blue skies of a vibrant spring weekend, Royal Hospital Kilmainham came alive with colour, rhythm, and joy for Africa Day 2025—a celebration of heritage, identity, and the contributions of African communities to Irish life. Among the many groups, artists, and community leaders who gathered for this much-loved annual event, the Dublin City Public Participation Network’s Migrant/Minority Thematic Group (MTG) was proud to take part, engaging in dialogue, connection, and visioning for the future.
It was a day filled with music, food, storytelling, and friendship, offering both a celebration of cultural richness and an opportunity to reflect on what meaningful inclusion can look like. From old friends reuniting to new collaborations forming, the weekend was a reminder of the deep well of talent, experience, and leadership within Dublin’s African communities—and of the role that networks like the PPN can play in amplifying those voices.
A Space for Celebration and Dialogue
Africa Day, organised annually with support from Irish Aid and Dublin City Council, provides a place for communities across the diaspora to come together. While the event is joyful and uplifting, it also carries a deeper resonance: a celebration of connection, resilience, and belonging in a society that is still learning how to fully recognise and embrace its diversity.
For the Dublin City PPN’s Migrant/Minority Thematic Group, the day was more than a celebration—it was an opportunity to build bridges, raise awareness of the PPN’s work, and connect with individuals and organisations who are passionate about shaping a more inclusive Dublin.
“We had so many brilliant conversations,” said one MTG member. “People were curious about the PPN—what it is, how it works, and how they could get involved. That kind of interest is exactly what we hoped for.”
Raising the Profile of the PPN
The MTG used their time at Africa Day, not only to soak up the festival atmosphere but to actively promote the work of the Dublin City Public Participation Network. As part of the PPN’s commitment to ensuring that all communities—especially those underrepresented in decision-making—have a seat at the table, the group is working to ensure that migrant and minority voices are not only heard but actively shaping local policy and practice.
During Africa Day, MTG members engaged with attendees about the value of community representation, consultation, and deliberative participation. Many people were surprised to learn that the PPN exists as a formal mechanism for communities to engage with Dublin City Council and other decision-makers.
“There’s a real hunger in our communities to get involved and to make change,” said another MTG representative. “But there’s also a gap in understanding about how those systems work, or how people can participate. That’s what we’re trying to bridge.”
Laying Foundations for SPC Participation
One of the MTG’s strategic goals is to support members of migrant and minority communities to step into leadership roles within the PPN, including nominating and electing representatives to Strategic Policy Committees (SPCs) in the next cycle. SPCs play a key role in shaping city-wide policies in areas such as housing, transport, social inclusion, and environment. Ensuring diversity within those spaces is essential if Dublin’s policies are to reflect the full breadth of its population.
“This isn’t about tokenism—it’s about representation,” explained a member of the group. “It’s about having people in the room who bring different perspectives, experiences, and solutions. And Africa Day showed us that there are plenty of community leaders ready to step into that space.”
The MTG plans to run information sessions later in the year to demystify the process of standing for PPN representative roles and to encourage new and emerging community leaders to consider taking part. The enthusiasm and engagement seen at Africa Day will be invaluable fuel for that work.
A Weekend of Warmth, Flavour, and Music
Of course, Africa Day was not just about advocacy—it was about joy. Africa Day provided the perfect setting for families and friends to come together in celebration. The air was filled with drumming, dancing, and delicious aromas as food stalls offered everything from jollof rice and plantains to Ethiopian coffee and Moroccan pastries.
Live performances on the main stage reflected the incredible diversity of African cultures represented in Dublin today—Afrobeats, reggae, traditional percussion, spoken word poetry, and soul-stirring vocals all featured throughout the day. Children danced, elders chatted, and artists showcased crafts and clothing that spoke of heritage and pride.
There was something particularly moving about watching people from across generations—some born in Africa, others in Ireland—gathering together not only to celebrate but to be visible, vocal, and valued in public space.
“Ireland has been home for years,” one festival-goer said. “But days like this make it feel like our home. Our culture, our food, our stories—out in the open, being celebrated.”
Community Power and the Road Ahead
The Migrant and Minority Thematic Group is just one example of how Dublin City PPN is working to foster inclusion, equity, and authentic community power. By supporting groups like the MTG, the PPN creates platforms for grassroots voices to influence policies and services that affect their lives.
Africa Day reminded everyone involved of the strength and potential that lies within migrant communities—when that potential is recognised, supported, and linked to structures of decision-making, the whole city benefits.
The MTG extends its thanks to everyone who stopped by the PPN stand, shared a story, asked a question, or expressed interest in getting involved. Special thanks also go to the organisers of Africa Day, who once again created a welcoming and celebratory space for all.