AFRICA FREEDOM DAY 2026 celebrations

I AM AFRICAN

I Am African was inspired by the celebration of Africa Freedom Day and Africa's rich history, diversity, creativity  and beauty. It celebrates culture, fashion, food and people. It was founded by Ruth Chimbala, a Fashion designer, Librarian, singer and Baker in . With the love and passion for fashion, food and Africa, the Idea of celebrating with other  people was ignited.

20th May,2017 (first I A m African event- photoshoot)

PRESENT- (From Left to right) Ruth Chimbala, Ibrahim, Alexander, Catherine Mulope , Nicholas the model, Davies, Joseph Sagonda

Looking at the beauty and talents that Africa has, one would be inspired to hold a day were people come to experience its diversity and richness.

I Am African has been running since 2017. Models were invited to a photoshoot and to celebrate together. The years that followed, Fashion Shows were held to commemorate Africa Freedom Day. Many fashion shows have been held up to date.

 (Second edition of I Am African Fashion Show)

 Blessings Mwanza (In Red, in Yellow No Name) 

(MODEL- Melisa Namunyola

 

THIRD ED. OF I AM AFRICAN,2025

MODEL (Melissa Hakalima and Viweme Nalungwe) 

 (DESIGNER- Mwanida Phiri)  

 

(DESIGNER- Rosie Musanda)

 (DESIGNER- Jack Jones) 

  

(Circus Zambia)

The events bring together, Fashion designers, models, food lovers, food vendors, dj's, actors, etc.

Touring the country, Zambia is one of the activities done during I Am African celebration. They are held to showcase and learn more about Zambia and its history.

This year,2026 I Am African 4th edition aims  to tour more of Zambia's history and heritage sites. The event will be held on 23rd May,2026 .

I Am African Model  Physical Auditions will be held on 28th Febraury,2026. 

 

(Models on the poster- Perez Tobias, Judith Ngandwe and Simbarashe Samuel Sagonda)

 

(Designer call- MODEL Judith Ngandwe)

 

Back ground of Africa Freedom Day

Africa Freedom Day is celebrated annually on 25th May, to commemorate the founding of the Organization of African Unity in 1993.Originally, the first conference of independent African States in1958 declared April 15 as Africa Freedom Day to mark progress in liberation movements, but this was later changed to May 25th after OAU was founded in 1963

 It recognizes the struggle for Independence, celebrates African unity and honors the fight against colonialism and foreign domination. 32 independent African nations met to form the OAU .

Parades, public lectures, concerts and cultural events are held to celebrate the day. In Zambia, it is a public day featuring wreath-laying ceremonies at the Freedom Statue, presidential pardons for inmates. The holiday is now recognized as a day to honor liberation fighter and reflect on the continents progress toward economic and social growth rather than political independence.

Retrieved 26th Febraury,2026 (10:49)

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