On September 24th, various African cultures and communities united to celebrate the 7th Annual Pan-African Cultural Festival – or Panafest – at The Veterans Plaza in downtown Silver Spring.

The All Cameroonian Cultural and Developmental Foundation (ACCDF)  organized the event in collaboration with African Affairs of Montgomery County, Maryland. About 2,000 people attended throughout the day.

Panafest is  part of a series of festivals commemorating September as African Heritage Month in Montgomery County. It’s celebrated to showcase the rich and diverse cultures of Africa that people may not see in their daily lives.

Local vendors came to sell their products, which included jewelry, sculptures, paintings, and clothing that they’ve acquired from all throughout Africa.

Local vendor Yamatut Faye came to sell her handmade jewelry and clothing items and shared her opinion on the annual Panafest. She mentioned that “it’s a very important event because it brings all nationalities together for entertainment.”

Local African artists including Mr. Tz aka San Tz from Tanzania and Chilli from Cameroon performed modern music from their countries to showcase their different sounds.

“I appreciate it [Panafest] because it’s showing others who aren’t aware of the cultures in Africa,” said  attendee Maimuna Jahateh.  “It’s also giving an opportunity to purchase items they only see online or in blogs.”

Foods from different African countries were sold as well. The food ranged from Senegalese grilled lamb to Ethiopian injera.

Towards the end of the festival, Panafest organizing members came to the stage for recognition. During the ceremony, Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett was praised for his dedication in helping the African immigrant community, although he didn’t attend.

Gambian American Association member Soffie Ceesay received the community service award  for her work helping African immigrant children in Montgomery County.

Also celebrated was the fact that Montgomery County is the first county in the U.S. to institute African Heritage Month.