BelSU Hosts Culinary Festival of African Countries

Students from the African community at the university took guests on a festive journey through the New Year customs of countries such as Burkina Faso, Togo, Congo, Nigeria, Senegal, Mali, and Sierra Leone. Each country’s celebrations are filled with unique customs and rituals that reflect their vibrant cultures.

The event was warmly welcomed by Olga Lyutova, the director of the BelSU International Information Centre. She emphasized the significance of such events in strengthening international ties. Natalia Girenko, curator of the African community, noted that reunions like this foster understanding and appreciation of diverse traditions.

Students prepared traditional dishes from their homelands and shared stories about the customs associated with New Year celebrations.

In Burkina Faso, festivities often begin with prayers and chants seeking blessings for the year ahead, accompanied by colourful carnivals where young people don traditional costumes and dance.

In Togo, celebrations feature lively street fairs offering local delicacies and handicrafts. Nigeria is renowned for its spectacular fireworks displays and vibrant festive spirit, with families gathering around lavish tables filled with traditional cuisine.

Meanwhile, Senegal and Mali celebrate the New Year through rituals focused on family and community, emphasizing forgiveness, renewal of bonds, and gratitude for the harvest. Sierra Leone also embraces this spirit with musical parties and food festivals that celebrate the nation's culinary heritage.

The diverse traditions of New Year celebrations across these African countries exemplify both unity and the richness of cultural heritage.

Some of traditional festive dishes were showcased at the food festival, allowing guests to experience a taste of Africa’s culinary delights.