MARCH 19, 2019 IN PARIS: DEKKAL THIOSSANE CELEBRATES AFRO-CARIBBEAN CULTURE AND EXPLORES ITS ROLE IN CONFLICT RESOLUTION

Paris, March 2, 2019 - The Dekkal Thiossane association today orchestrated an exceptional cultural day around the theme "The role of Culture in the prevention and management of risks, crises and conflicts". The event, held at the Mairie in the 15th arrondissement of Paris, brought together artists, intellectuals and diplomats around a common goal: to demonstrate the power of culture as a vector for peace and development. 

This morning, the doors of the Town Hall opened to an immersive exhibition of works by Senegalese artists Bass DHEM and Moctar GUEYE Lika, immersing visitors in the vibrant world of "Boy Dakar" and "Être" painting and sculpture. Sacred and secular African masks also captivated attention, testifying to the richness of Africa's cultural heritage.

A high-level debate followed in the afternoon, featuring eminent specialists in international relations and conflict resolution: 

Mr Kag SANOUSSIExpert in Negotiation Intelligence and President of the International Institute for Conflict Management (ICMI)

Mr Doudou DIENEUN Independent Expert on Human Rights and former Director of UNESCO's Division of Intercultural Dialogue

Mr Bandiougou DIAWARAProgram Manager, M.A.B. (Man and Biosphere) Networks Section, UNESCO

Mrs Feven TEWOLDErepresentative of the Permanent Delegation of Ethiopia to UNESCO

Their in-depth analysis of the crucial role of culture in resolving crises and conflicts in Africa sparked a rich and constructive dialogue.

The evening continued with a colorful fashion show presented by Senegalese designer Ouley KEITA, showcasing woven loincloths from Senegal and Guinea-Bissau. The festive atmosphere intensified with an exceptional concert featuring singer AaYiimi (l'Héritier), the Congolese group "TOP-ONE-FRISSON", the West Indian troupe DIAPASON SHOW, and a surprise appearance by singer Clémence from "La compagnie créole". The words of writer-poet-slammers Aimé NOUMA and Félicien JERENT punctuated these artistic performances, creating unique moments of sharing.

Many influential personalities graced the event with their presence, including :

Mrs Louisa FERHATPhilippe GOUJON, Mayor of the 15th arrondissement of Paris, who was detained by a "yellow vest" roadblock. She is Deputy Mayor in charge of diversity, integration and gender equality.

Her Excellency Rachel Annick OGOULA AKIKOAmbassador of Gabon to UNESCO and President of the UNESCO Africa Group

His Excellency Bassirou SENESenegalese Ambassador to France

His Excellency Abdou SOURANGAmbassador of Senegal to UNESCO

Her Excellency Mrs Filomena MENDES MASCARENHAS TIPOTE, Ambassador of Guinea-Bissau to France and UNESCO

His Excellency Sedat JOBEAmbassador of Gambia to France and UNESCO

His Excellency Henri OSSEBI, Ambassador of Congo to UNESCO

Mr Amadou DIALLOConsul General of Senegal in France

His Excellency Mr. Amadou DÉMEformer Ambassador of Senegal

Mr Mourad ISSAADAlgeria's Deputy Permanent Delegate to UNESCO

Mr Elom AGUDZEDiplomate at the Permanent Delegation of Togo to UNESCO

This event testifies to Dekkal Thiossane's commitment to promoting the richness and diversity of African and Caribbean cultures. The association thus reaffirms its conviction that culture is an essential vector for building a future of peace, dialogue and development.