On May 24th, 2025, KDI School’s African Development Forum (ADF) held the Africa Day event at Lincoln Hall, under the theme of “Unlearning to Reclaim: Rethinking the African Narrative.”

The event was officially opened by Mr. Richmond Kwadwo Fosu, the ADF forum leader. 

Africa Day is celebrated annually to commemorate the founding of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in 1963, which later became the African Union (AU) in 2002. The day honors the continent’s progress toward unity, independence, and development, and is marked by cultural events, discussions, and celebrations across Africa and the world.

The event featured panel discussions, a culture parade, and interactive talks from two special guests who joined the forum’s celebration. They kicked off with fun games and activities to set the mood for the great night ahead. 

The first session of the event was a panel discussion on truths and myths about Africa. The 4-member panel offered their takes on various myths about the continent, including time management, reclaiming the African identity, and regressive myths held by Africans. The panel members, all KDIS students, included Mr. Richard Kabutey, a final-year PhD candidate in Public Policy with professional expertise in local governance, Ms. Cynthia Mulama, who specializes in government communication, Mr. Kuye Adeniyi, a Finance and Investment Manager, and Ms. Trésor Nyirenda, a multi-talented young woman blending governance and the arts. 

Ms. Cynthia Mulama, when asked about African History, mentioned that until African History is taught with a sense of urgency and responsibility to the next generation, it will merely remain a lesson with no outcome other than information stored. Echoing the same, concerning truths Africans should run with, Mr. Richard Kabutey said, “Africa doesn’t need miracles and prayers. It needs working systems. Prayers won’t get the systems working for the good of the people.” 

The first special guest speaker was Mr. Joseph Kwak, a lecturer in the Department of Business Administration at Pai Chai University. He spoke on cross-cultural understanding in education and African-Korean academic exchange. Mr. Kwak, who was among the pioneer students of the Global Korea Scholarship, GKS, formerly KGSP, emphasized seeking opportunities while abroad to expand on knowledge and be transformed to make meaningful contributions towards the continent, however small. 

The highlight of the evening was the vibrant culture parade, where student representatives from a diverse array of African nations, including Nigeria, Malawi, Uganda, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, and Botswana, took center stage. Each group presented the unique traditions, music, dance, and tourist attractions of their home countries, transforming the event into a colourful celebration of African heritage. 

This engaging showcase not only entertained the audience but also offered a deeper understanding of each country’s rich cultural identity, moving beyond mere names to bring the spirit of Africa alive for everyone present.

The second panel discussion offered a thoughtful exploration of social media’s complex role in shaping perceptions of Africa. The engaging session, moderated by four KDI School students alongside distinguished guests, featured Ms. Vickjune Wutoh, a KDI graduate with a Master’s in Development Policy and former leader of the ADF Forum, Mr. Bankole Olatunji, Ms. Gracie Alinafe Chimvula, and Ms. Letsema Ngidi. Together, they tackled the pressing question of how social media can be harnessed to advance a positive image of Africa or, conversely, can perpetuate damaging myths and stereotypes. 

The panelists highlighted the concept of the “porosity” of social media—the absence of traditional gatekeepers that once filtered information in mainstream media—which allows for both creative self-expression and the unchecked spread of misinformation. As Ms. Letsema insightfully noted, “Social media gives us the power to tell our own stories, but it also means we must be vigilant about the narratives that take root. Without gatekeepers, every voice counts, but so does every rumour.” The discussion underscored the need for Africans and allies to actively engage with digital platforms, using them as tools for education, empowerment, and the celebration of the continent’s diverse realities. Panelists also encouraged students to critically assess the information they consume and to contribute their authentic perspectives, ensuring that Africa’s story is told with nuance and truth.

The event was closed with a talk from the second special guest, Prof. Eje Kim. Prof.Kim, a scholar, author, and media expert specializing in geography and Southeast Asia. Her work has been widely published and translated internationally. Prof. Kim, a geography enthusiast, appears weekly on KBS to educate the public. She shared insights from her extensive experience working across Africa, journeying country by country to immerse herself in the continent’s diverse cultures and landscapes. 

Through her work, she strives to amplify authentic African voices and narratives, ensuring that the stories of local communities are heard and understood beyond the region. “There’s so much richness and complexity in every corner of Africa,” she explained, “and by sharing these stories, I hope to challenge misconceptions and celebrate the true spirit of the continent.” Her passion for storytelling not only bridges gaps between cultures but also inspires others to see Africa through a lens of curiosity and respect.

As the event drew to a close, it was clear that the celebration of Africa Day had brought together a community eager to learn, share, and celebrate the continent’s vibrant cultures and voices. Through lively performances, insightful discussions, and personal stories, the day highlighted both the challenges and triumphs faced by African nations—and the powerful role that students and young leaders can play in shaping a more inclusive, informed future.