URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) – Sunday marked the first African Ngoma Festival at the Community Arts Center in downtown Urbana.
The ngoma is a musical instrument used in Africa to express feelings. Part of the festivities was held at the music school in the city center. Organizer Jean Rene Balekita said the goal of the event is to show the community something different and showcase that art in the Champaign-Urbana area.
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“This event celebrates the African presence. So, you know, it’s important to create community, bring people together and share different cultures,” he said.
The event also featured a fashion show, drumming and dance learning.
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