The Igbo community in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada held the celebration of the 2023 New Yam Festival on August 26th, 2023 . The Igbos are well known to promote the Igbo culture overseas and it is well received by their host communities
This was a well attended festival with the Mayor of Waterloo and Federal Member of Parliament for the Waterloo Region in attendance. There was a special address by Hon Kaycee Madu, the immediate past Deputy Premier, Province of Alberta and first Black Minister of Justice in Canada on the need to promote culture as a panacea for long term development
During the opening Iwa Oji (Breaking of Kolanut), the 7 Igbo states namely Abia, Anambra, Delta, Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo & Rivers State were fully represented
It is a time when Igbo people come together to showcase and promote their rich cultural heritage, traditions, language, and history. The event provides an opportunity for Igbo individuals, families, and communities to gather and celebrate their identity.
Watch videos from the event
The Igbo are one of the largest ethnic nationalities in Africa with over 45 million people, 15 major language variations and indigenous to the rain forest belt along the Oshimiri Atata (Gulf of Guinea) around the southern extremities of the Oshimiri Orimiri (River Niger). In the present day, the majority of the Igbo population can be found in Nigeria while others are in Equatorial Guinea. There are also significant Igbo descendant populations in the Caribbean Islands (Jamaica, Haiti, Dominica Republic, Cuba, Trinidad & Tobago, Guyana etc), Canada, United States, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Gabon, Guinea, Cameroon, the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Igbo Day celebration holds significant importance for several reasons:
Cultural Preservation
Igbo Day is a means of preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo people. It provides an opportunity for Igbo individuals and communities to showcase their traditional values, customs, language, arts, music, and dance.
By celebrating Igbo culture, the community ensures that its unique traditions are passed down from one generation to the next, preserving their identity and preventing cultural erosion.
Unity and Community Building
Igbo Day brings together Igbo people from different backgrounds, villages, and states, fostering unity and a sense of belonging.
It serves as a platform for community members to connect, interact, and strengthen social ties.
Through shared experiences, cultural activities, and discussions, Igbo Day promotes solidarity and collective responsibility among the Igbo people.
Education and Awareness
Igbo Day celebration plays a crucial role in educating both Igbo people and others about the cultural heritage, history, and contributions of the Igbo community.
It raises awareness about the values, traditions, and achievements of the Igbo people, helping to dispel stereotypes and misconceptions.
By showcasing their rich cultural tapestry, Igbo Day celebration promotes understanding, respect, and appreciation for Igbo culture among a wider audience.
Cultural Identity and Pride
Igbo Day serves as a source of pride and reaffirms the cultural identity of Igbo individuals.It allows them to express and celebrate their heritage without hesitation or dilution.
By participating in traditional activities, wearing traditional attire, speaking the Igbo language, and engaging in cultural practices,
Igbo people reinforce their sense of belonging and take pride in their cultural roots.
Socioeconomic Development
Igbo Day celebration also has implications for socioeconomic development within the Igbo community. The event provides a platform for showcasing Igbo entrepreneurship, creativity, and innovation.It creates opportunities for Igbo artisans, craftsmen, traders, and performers to display and sell their products and services.
Igbo Day can stimulate economic growth, encourage investment, and promote tourism within Igbo communities.
In summary, Igbo Day celebration is important because it preserves and promotes Igbo culture, fosters unity and community building, educates and raises awareness, strengthens cultural identity and pride, and contributes to the socioeconomic development of the Igbo community
From the event advert
Celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo people at the New Yam Festival – Canada 2023!
Join us on Saturday, August 26th at 5:00 PM at the magnificent St. Michael’s Banquet Hall. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of art, music, and tradition as we mark the bountiful harvest season and the beginning of a new cycle.
Indulge in a feast for the senses as you witness mesmerizing performances, vibrant dances, and enchanting music that will transport you straight to the heart of West Africa. Marvel at the stunning displays of artwork, showcasing the talent and creativity of the Igbo community.
This is not just an event, but a celebration of unity, diversity, and the beauty of cultural exchange.
Bring your friends and family along for an unforgettable evening of joy, laughter, and connection. Discover the rich history and traditions of the Igbo people, and leave with a deeper understanding and appreciation for their way of life.
Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to experience the New Yam Festival right here in Canada. Secure your spot now and be a part of this incredible celebration of art, culture, and community!
👉 Click the link below to reserve your tickets today! 👈
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/new-yam-festival-canada-2023-tickets-684509013887?aff=oddtdtcreator
