HUNDREDS, psychologically prepared and colourfully bedecked in African attire, assembled on Saturday at the Headquarters of the African Cultural Development Association (ACDA) in Thomas Lands, Georgetown for the annual celebration of Kwanzaa – a celebration of family, community and culture.

Kwanzaa is based on ancient African harvest celebrations. The word Kwanzaa comes from the Swahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza”, which means “first fruits.” And testament to this was the abundance of agricultural produce on display, which was generously distributed to attendees at conclusion of the celebrations.

The gathering, which comprised both the young and the old, also included Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, as well as overseas-based Guyanese and other distinguished persons appreciative of the cause.

Chaired Penda Guyan, with welcome remarks by President of ACDA, Mr. Eric Phillips, and Libation by Bishop Andrew Irving, it was a spirited occasion, spiced with rich African drumming, poems and choral speaking by ACDA’s children. Also addressing the gathering was Elton Mc Rae, member of ACDA’s steering committee.

Phillips, who extended heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to persons for having made significant contributions to the Association, accorded a special welcome to Violet Jean-Baptiste, who, 23 years ago, had the vision, with others, to create ACDA.

Also acknowledged in absentia was Egerton Cooke, whose brainchild it was to have a cultural school set up at ACDA to facilitate the practise of the principles of Kwanzaa. The school now has a student population of about 70.

Meanwhile, Ronald Waddell, slain Guyanese political commentator and journalist, in whose memory ACDA’s Library was named (The Ronald Waddell Reading Room) was honoured posthumously.

ACDA was established in 1992, and continues to grow from strength to strength.

Commenting of the activities of ACDA over the years, Philips noted that ACDA, for its part, celebrates various events during the year. “But it is Kwanzaa that brings us together as a family,” he declared.

Kwanzaa is celebrated for seven days — from December 26th through January 1st — a period which represents the end of an old year and the beginning of a new one. This time in African culture is called “The time when the edges of the year meet,” which is a time of celebration, focus, and assessment.

Kwanzaa is represented by seven symbols: Mazo (crops); Mkeka (mat); Kinara (candleholder); Mishumaa Saba (seven candles); Muhindi (ears of corn); Zawadi (gifts) and Kikombe Cha Umoja (unity cup). The candle holder has seven candles: one black, three red and three green. The colours are black, for black people, red for their struggle, and green for the hope and future that come from the struggle.