An Evening of Elegance and African Culture: Dekkal Thiossane at the Palais de l'UNESCO (2006)

On Saturday May 13, 2006, the Palais de l'UNESCO resounded to the rhythms and colors of Africa at the second gala dinner organized by the Dekkal Thiossane association, a group of friends working at UNESCO. Under the prestigious patronage of the Permanent Delegation of Senegal to UNESCO, represented by Minister-Counsellor Ousmane Blondin DIOP, the event drew a distinguished audience to celebrate the richness of Africa's cultural heritage.

Mr. Amadou DÈME, former Ambassador and Permanent Delegate of Senegal to UNESCO, opened the evening with an inspiring speech, underlining the importance of culture as a vector for development and dialogue between peoples.

Distinguished guests included Princess Esther KAMATARI of Burundi and Madame Marie-Laure CROIZIERS DE LACVIVIER, a leading figure in Afro-Parisian cultural circles, nicknamed "Mama Africa".

The fashion show then featured the creations of designer Sabella, presenting original pieces that captivated the audience with their elegance and creativity.

The artistic line-up featured a diversity of African talent. The lively rhythms of Guinea-Bissau group BATCHASS KO set the hall alight. BOY MARONE (Senegal), with his salsa-mbalax style, performed his famous hit "Yow Mi", transporting guests to the heart of Africa. Kaaby Kandia KOUYATÉ, a Guinean singer-songwriter and son of the famous Sory Kandia KOUYATÉ, offered up some spellbinding Mandingo rhythms. Leity MBAYE (Senegal) also captivated the audience. Nicole Yandé AMOVIN, a former chorister with Carole FREDERICKS, gave a remarkable vocal performance. The virtuosity of Moussa KONATÉ on the kora rounded off this exceptional musical show.

A grand tombola, featuring a Paris-Dakar-Paris plane ticket donated by Transfret and prizes from FARIDA B (curly hair specialist), added an extra touch of festivity to the evening.

The warm welcome from the president of the Dekkal Thiossane association, Mr. Mbékhor BÉYE, and the vice-president, Mrs. Paulette CORRÉA, left a lasting impression. The dinner, featuring Thiébou Dieune (Senegal's national dish), brochettes and other African specialties, delighted the taste buds of the guests.

The evening was a veritable triumph, testifying to Dekkal Thiossane's unwavering commitment to promoting African culture and creating unforgettable moments of sharing and celebration. 

Gilbert Sarr's story.