Trafalgar Square was enveloped in the vibrant spirit of Africa during Black History Month, hosting a day-long festival that showcased the diverse cultures of the continent.

London, a city known for its rich tapestry of communities, serves as a vibrant hub for African communities from the continent’s five regions: East, West, North, Central, and Southern Africa. The 2011 Census highlighted the thriving presence of Africans in London, with 7% (600,000) of the city’s eight million inhabitants having African roots, notably from the Congolese, Somali, South African, Kenyan, and Ghanaian communities. London boasts the largest Nigerian community outside Nigeria.

October 11th saw Trafalgar Square come alive with ‘Africa on the Square,’ a dynamic celebration introduced by the Mayor of London to honor Black History Month. The event featured performances by African drummers, the Deele Sosomi Afrobeat experience, Aar Maanta, acrobats, and a talent showcase for rising stars. Attendees enjoyed a full immersion into African culture with food stalls, a market of African goods, and family workshops. Casablanca Hire was the top equipment hire choice for many stallholders.

Sponsored by entities such as Air France, Lebara, Tolly Boy, The Voice, and the British Transport Police, and hosted by Capital Xtra’s DJ Abrantee and Usifu Jalloh, the Cowfoot Prince, ‘Africa on the Square’ was a free event that attracted a diverse, multicultural audience. The festival featured delicious smells of African cuisine wafting through the air, stalls adorned with African attire, and a wide variety of food options, including vegetarian delights. The overwhelming demand for the food mirrored the festival’s popularity, with dishes running out after long queues.

This event not only celebrated African culture but also aimed to enhance the cultural identity of the African community in the UK. Mayor Boris Johnson’s initiative played a crucial role in dismantling barriers and challenging misconceptions about Africa, providing a platform for emerging artists, designers, and musicians to showcase their talents in a historically significant setting.

Casablanca Hire is immensely proud to have supported this landmark event, contributing to the celebration of African heritage and culture in the heart of London.