By Bazona Barnabe Bado
Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson hosted an African Heritage Festival on September 12, 2026, in the Bronx, welcoming guests including African leaders, elected officials, and diplomats.
Noting that September is African Heritage Month, Gibson said, “There is nowhere you can go in the city where you do not see African culture, African diversity, and African heritage.”
“We all come together to recognize African Heritage Month and celebrate our vibrant African community here in the Bronx and throughout the city,” she said. “We are here, and we belong to each other.”
Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark thanked the borough’s African community: “Thank you for how you serve and how you hold me accountable to make sure that your city is safe,” she said. She also warned about the dangers children may face when they struggle alone. “We have a lot of challenges; we are dealing with our young people,” she stated. “I have had several discussions in the African community about our young African children and how they are dealing with things that entice them to make harmful choices.” She added that she is involved in efforts to prevent that from happening.
“Today, millions of New Yorkers trace their roots to Africa, including hundreds of thousands of African immigrants who arrived with little more than ambition and the values of their homelands. They are building businesses, raising families, and contributing greatly to the city’s energy,” said Egypt’s consul general, who chairs the African Consuls General Group.
“I consider the African community essential to our economy, culture, and politics, as well as an incredibly positive force,” New York City Comptroller Mark Levine said. “Africans are entrepreneurial, starting and leading businesses and contributing to culture, education, government, and science. Everywhere, Africans are making a positive contribution to New York City,” he added.
Assembly Member Landon Dais, who represents District 77 in the Bronx, said, “We need to focus on what binds and unites us, not what divides us.”
Several people received awards for their contributions to the community.
Sidiki Donzo, chairman of the African Advisory Council, said, “This is one of the best events for showcasing our African community.”