January 2020
Happy month, year, and depending on what side of the fence you sit on, new decade!
Officially, January has 31 days but for whatever reason, it feels closer to 75! This is partly due to the excesses of Christmas and the massive (and unnecessary) splurge during the last 10 days of December. But oh well, we move!
If you still have energy to get involved in events this month, here are some reasonably priced happenings in and around London!
Changing the Narrative
11th- 12th January
Informer East Africa and the Museum of British Colonialism host a two-day event at the Africa centre exploring heritage, culture and change. This interactive exhibition invites visitors to "confront what it means to decolonise heritage" and the influence of British-African collaborations as catalysts.
If you're an African history buff, you'll enjoy the exhibition gisrws by the Museum of British colonialism on on the 1950s Mau Mau uprising which took place in Kenya. More information can be found here.
A West African Veganuary Brunch
12th January
Love western African food and are on a health flex this January? Then this may be the event you've been looking for.
Award-winning host and chef prepares an array of vegan west African cuisine, exploring the vibrancy of west African cuisine with a tailored menu. Helping you detox - the west African way with an tropical take on plant-based living.
Tickets sell out quick so be sure to book early.
Project 1957: Twi Club / Ga Club
14th January / 23rd January
Ghana's "year of the return" garnered a lot of interest from not only Africans but the world at large. Celebrities such as Boris Kodjo, Tina Knowles, Solange, Naomi Campbell, Akon and Lupita Nyong'o were spotted at various events across Ghana.
If you're a polyglot seeking to add a Ghanaian language to your repertoire, Project 1957 is holding Twi and Ga language masterclasses for individuals at all levels so if you want to be able to speak a little more than 'chale' on your next visit to Ghana, you should add this to your January calendar. Plus, at £5, you have one less reason to say no.
Dreaming of Africa - solo & group travel networking
23rd January
If the snapchat and Instagram stories are anything to go by, Africa was pretty fantastic this December. If like us, you weren't able to make it but are keen to explore and learn about how best to travel across the African continent, this informal session should be added up your January calendar.
With specialists from over 20 countries across Africa to explore, this evening aims to connect like minded travellers to design bespoke travel experiences.
The event is only a fiver - which includes a few drinks and some interactive, African themed games so why not?!
Dele Sosimi
24th January
The award-winning musician is back with his Afrobeat Orchestra for his 2020 tour at the Jazz Cafe, Camden. Here's a sample of what to expect:
This man has performed with the legendary Fela Kuti, showcased recent work at the Sundance festival so you know what that means...Tickets = hotcakes!! So get them quick cos they'll definitely sell out.
In The Shadows of Biafra: Launch Film Event
24th January
For whatever reason, war doesn't seem to be something we humans are able to avoid. Every African nation has experienced civil unrest and war - Biafra was Nigeria's civil war. Very little has been documented about this very complex and dark period during Nigeria's formative years. In The Shadows of Biafra is a documentary film which hopes to shed more light on this period of Nigerian history through the eyes of writers, with contributions from Inua Ellams, Chimamanda Adichie, Nnedi Okorafor to name a few.
There will be a Q&A session hosted by director Nathan Richards and producer Dr. Louisa Uchum Egbunike.
Africa in 2020 : Art and activism
28th January
SOAS is no stranger to the African event space in London. Partnering with the British Council, this event aims to explore the increasing prominence of African creatives across the continent. Featuring musicians, directors and artists, the event aims to explore the relationship between art and activism and how changes in this socio-political environment can affect and influence art and African creatives at large. More details can be found here
Les Amazones D'Afrique
29th January
The all-female quartet who juxtapose music and activism are in London for a special one-off show.
Experience funk, blues with African hues with songs in English, French and Mandinka (Native African language spoken in Mali, Guinea and Ivory Coast).
Noted as one of Barack Obama's favourite albums of 2017, this show is not to be missed.
So these are January's best bit.
Here's to an enjoyable 91 days in January.