The International Women’s Group- Kuwait held the first of a three-part cultural journey through enchanted Africa.
On Sunday, 21 April 2024, the series commenced with beautiful Southern Africa, represented by, and in cooperation with, the embassies of the Union of the Comoros; the Republic of Botswana; the Kingdom of Lesotho; the Kingdom of Eswatini; the Republic South Africa; the Republic of Malawi.
In her welcome address IWG President, Mrs. Antonia Dimitrova, spouse of the Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria, extended on behalf of IWG warm wishes for good health and success to His Highness the Amir, Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and for everlasting advancement and prosperity to Kuwait and its people. She thanked the Honorary President of IWG H. E. Sheikha Hanouf Badar Al Muhammad Al Sabah for her support of the goals of IWG in promoting cultural exchange, friendship and understanding between nations.
She then expressed her appreciation and thanks to the participating countries for their outstanding contributions and efforts in making a multi-nation cultural day possible, saying that IWG members were grateful to be able to experience the cultural delights of Southern Africa.
The Ambassador of South Africa, H.E. Dr Maanelisi Genge, welcomed all on behalf of the Dean of SADC, Ambassador of The Union of the Comoros H.E Dr El Anrif Said Hassane. The Ambassador expressed the happiness of the participating countries for the invitation to showcase the rich and diverse cultural heritage of their nations through their music, dance, intricate handicraft and textiles.
Mrs. Polina Dlamini, Vice President of IWG and spouse of the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Eswatini, served as MC of the event, delighting attendees with her energy and passion for the culture and beauty of the region.
During the event, a short film about each of the participating countries was shown, highlighting the beauty of the various natural sites, monuments, magnificent wildlife, lakes, caves, and adventure tourism activities.
The participating countries also showcased their national dress as well as their countries’ songs and tribal dances. Elaborate displays of handicrafts, clothes, textiles, local products and brochures were beautifully exhibited.
Members and guests were also encouraged to use the photo booth where various African designs and styles were available for them to try. The African headwraps were admired and highly appreciated by the ladies, many of whom had the opportunity to wear them.
Gifts were given to those who could answer questions about the countries, and a raffle draw with special prizes from each country added to the excitement. There were fresh fruit juices from South Africa at the specially erected juice bar, a lavish buffet prepared by the chefs of the Crowne Plaza and many Southern African specialties prepared by the countries at the International buffet station.
The IWG President along with the Executive Board presented the Ambassadors each with an honorary shield and thanked them for organizing this very special day and delighting the attendees with the cultural richness and beauty of their countries.
Throughout the lively and unforgettable event, the attendees were cheering and applauding the informative speeches, lively tribal dances, and various colorful traditional clothing displays of each country; truly immersing all in the rich cultures of the beautiful and mesmerizing nations of Comoros, Botswana, Lesotho, Eswatini, South Africa and Malawi.
