On April 25th, 2025, the Embassy of Cameroon was transformed into a vibrant hub of culture and art as it hosted the Shiri Achu Art Pan-African Fabric launch. This unforgettable evening combined the power of visual art (in the form of the Pan-African fabric), as well as a unique cultural culinary dining experience in celebration of African unity. The day marked the official launch of the first Pan-African fabric.
The event attracted an impressive array of distinguished guests, including Cameroon Ambassador H.E. H Essomba from Cameroon and Ambassador of the African Union H.E. Hilda Suka Mafudze, Miss Africa USA, Miss Eritrea Universe, and the esteemed Madam Jan Du Plain, Professor Victor Mbarika and Councilwoman Wala Blegay. Each brought their unique perspectives and support to this monumental celebration of African heritage and creativity. Highlights of the evening included: Inspiring speeches from the distinguished guests. a "Taste of Cameroon" (54 guests each representing an African nation) enjoyed the delights of the traditional meal 'Achu'. The Shiri Achu Art paintings of a grandmother pounding cocoyam's as well as the painting of Achu added to the experience.
Fashion Show: The unveiling of the Pan-African Fabric: A significant moment showcasing the diversity and unity of the African continent. The fabric showcased symbols derived from African nations from the North, East, South, West and Central Africa, thus embodying and signifying the whole of Africa. Traditional African music added a dynamic and immersive layer to the event. Shiri Achu Art Presentation of the Pan-African fabric to the eight countries whose symbols form part of this first PanAfrican fabric. The Ambassador, Cultural attaché or Representatives from Cameroon, Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya and Central Africa Republic received their packages. Shiri Achu Art received the United Council for Youth Empowerment (UCYE) 21st Century Most Contemporary artist award and was appointed as UCYE African Cultural Ambassador to the United States.
Engaging Dialogues: Attendees connected with the artist and special guests, deepening their appreciation for the stories and symbols behind the art/fabric. They also purchased and placed orders to be amongst the first to obtain items made with this colorful, beautiful and meaningful fabric.
Reflecting on the event, Shiri Achu said, "The Cameroonian Embassy was the perfect setting for this celebration of African culture and unity. The Pan-African fabric is more than just a fabric/design—it's a tribute to the strength and beauty of our shared heritage. The launch is the steppingstone for what is ahead. Each country will now aim to engage a representative fashion designer to use the Pan-African fabric to design key pieces for a fashion show to take place in the near future. Location and date to be confirmed." The event successfully highlighted the role of art in fostering community, igniting dialogue, and celebrating identity, leaving an enduring impression on all who attended.
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About Shiri Achu Art Shiri Achu Art is a celebrated multiple award-winning Cameroonian artist/painter, whose works are dedicated to promoting and celebrating the rich culture of Africa. Shiri Achu recently received The International Prize Artist of the Year 2025 award as well as an Outstanding young Cameroonian Award 2025. Shiri Achu Art, whose enduring labor of love is to promote and showcase Africa whilst also uniting the global community by sharing the beauty and diversity of Africa culture through her art.
For media inquiries, please contact: Shiri Achu of SHIRI ACHU ART. Email: info@shiriachuart.com / Phone +1 240 696 9297
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