Coventry’s very own Notting Hill carnival coming to city streets

AN outdoor festival, tipped to be Coventry’s very own Notting Hill Carnival will be landing in the city this summer - and it’s set to be a big one.

If Afrobeats, tasty food and throwing some shapes sound like your thing - then this one is for you. And even better - it’s free!

Described as ‘a party for all things Africa,’ the Ubuntu Pride festival will be coming to Coventry in August.

Ubuntu Pride will be the first of its kind on such a scale as it celebrates many African nations in one festival, bringing together people whose heritage spans across the African continent.

A first for this country - a solely African festival, celebrating identity and culture.

Music, dance, cuisine, as well as a wealth of interactive, engaging and immersive experiences including African expressive arts and cultural creativity.It’s an event for all, regardless of age, gender or origin.

There will be opportunities to volunteer and perform if you are a creative.

This will be an outdoor festival, taking place on August 1 and 2 with final arrangements due to be made in the coming months. The location is yet to be announced.

Sazini Malaba, founder of the event said: “This is an event for all - regardless of age, gender, origin anyone can get involved. We have a rich and vibrant African community in this country but with nowhere to proudly project and amplify our voices, our culture, and our unique history.

“This is why I’ve come together with cultural ambassadors from across the African nations and we are launching this inaugural festival with a bang, which we hope will become an annual part of the region’s events calendar.”

Malaba hopes the free public event will echo the atmosphere and vibe of national events, like the Notting Hill carnival and Black Pride.

The Afro-fest is being supported by Migrant Voice, a national charity organisation which invests in highlighting the experiences of migrants, refugees and asylum seekers.

Selbin Kabote, who works for Migrant Voice and is originally from Zimbabwe, said: “We are supporting this event as we work to empower and equip migrants of all backgrounds by providing networks, training, and opportunities to bring people together.”

Although showcasing African culture and identity, organisers say the Ubuntu Pride festival will be open for all to enjoy.