(Washington, DC) Performing for the first time ever in DC – The legendary Mbilia Bel from the Democratic Republic of Congo, artist producer Didier Awadi from Senegal, emerging artist Hanisha Solomon from Ethiopia, Ray-Son from the Democratic Republic of Congo, the incredible Simply Chrysolite and Naledi Ya Tshawane who both hail from South Africa! PLUS a Special Appearance by the international star Femi Kuti from Nigeria. For more details, visit www.landgrabawarenessconcert.com. Tickets are available at The Warner Theatre’s web site (www.warnertheatredc.com) and through www.ticketmaster.com.
The Partnership League for Africa’s Development (PLAD) Presents the STOP Africa Land Grab Concert to bring awareness to the on-going massive land acquisition in Africa by foreign investors. Land grabbing has been defined by Oxfam as the contentious issue of large-scale land acquisitions; the buying or leasing of large pieces of land in developing countries, by domestic and transnational companies, governments, and individuals. While these large-scale land deals are supposedly being struck to grow food, often the land is used to grow profitable crops – like sugar cane, palm oil, and soy – often for export instead. Would this create a serious food security problem for Africans? Many believe so.
These African music stars have traveled from Africa to Washington, DC to participate in the concert pro bono in support of raising awareness of what now appears to be a “a new scramble” for Africa’s natural resources. They will also participate in the consultative group discussion. Proceeds from the concert will be used for a public awareness campaign in Africa that will encourage the inclusion of the local population in the decision-making processes regarding the management of land for sustainable development in Africa.
