Creating an African Library in Ljubljana, Slovenia

Dear Friends!

In December, we will mark 170 years since the first African child was brought to Carniola from Sudan. A boy named Fadala was baptized on December 17, 1854 in the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas in Ljubljana. 170 years later african community in Slovenia is growing strong and ever evolving, with its respective members active in all fields of cultural, economic and even political life.

Establishing an African Library was a dream for me ever since I have written my first book. Fifteen years ago I had my first try in creating such a library. Although I've failed I've started collecting books by African authors, about African history, society, politics and so on. But with a little over 1000 books I am not yet there. African continent is too big and to diverse to be represented with only thousend something books. That is why I need your help.

An African library would serve as a cultural bridge, fostering greater awareness and understanding of African cultures, histories, and traditions among Slovenians. The library would house a wide range of literary works, including African literature, folklore, history, and contemporary writings. This diverse collection would provide Slovenian readers with an opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of African cultures, moving beyond stereotypes and broadening their cultural horizons.

Hosting cultural programs, such as African storytelling sessions and art exhibitions, would offer immersive experiences. These events would help Slovenians appreciate the depth and diversity of African cultures, fostering mutual respect and understanding.

Organizing workshops and lectures by African scholars, authors, and artists would enhance knowledge and appreciation of African contributions to global culture and intellectual discourse. Such interactions would provide a platform for dialogue, encouraging cross-cultural learning and collaboration.

The African library would also significantly enrich the educational landscape in Ljubljana and Slovenia as a whole. It would support academic research, curriculum development, and lifelong learning.

Students and researchers would benefit from access to a wealth of primary and secondary sources related to African studies. This resource would be invaluable for those studying subjects such as anthropology, history, political science, and literature, providing materials that are often hard to find in Slovenia.

Educational institutions could collaborate with the library to integrate African literature, history, and cultural studies into their curricula. This integration would promote a more inclusive and comprehensive educational framework, reflecting the interconnectedness of our world.

The establishment of an African library in Ljubljana would symbolize Slovenia's commitment to fostering strong international relations, particularly with African countries. By fostering a deeper understanding of African cultures and economies, the library could pave the way for enhanced economic and developmental partnerships. Slovenian businesses and development agencies would be better equipped to engage with African markets and contribute to sustainable development initiatives.

An African library would play a crucial role in supporting the African diaspora in Slovenia, providing a sense of community and belonging.

Access to African literature and cultural programs would help diaspora members maintain their cultural identity while integrating into Slovenian society. This dual focus on preservation and integration would contribute to a more cohesive and multicultural society.

By highlighting African voices and stories, the library would empower the diaspora community and promote greater representation in Slovenian cultural and intellectual life. This visibility would challenge stereotypes and foster a more inclusive national narrative.

So join me in creating an African Library!

Sekumady Condé

ABOUT THE FOUNDER

Sekumady Condé, a well-known Slovenian journalist and TV presenter, was born on 7th of May 1980 in Slovenj Gradec, Slovenia. Beside his journalistic career Condé is also author of several books of ​poetry and is featured in two anthologies of young Slovene poets. As an actor or director, he ​participated in 19 theatre productions, most of them in Slovene National Theatre Maribor and ​Slovene National Theatre Opera and Ballet Ljubljana.

His journalistic career started in 1999 at the Radio station MARŠ, Maribor, Slovenia. After working for ​different radio stations, he became a reporter and editor at the News Desk of the Slovene public ​broadcaster RTV Slovenija in 2007. The same year he also became the first News Anchor of African ​descent in Slovenia. Condé regularly participates in humanitarian work regarding poverty issues in ​Slovenia and West Africa, partnering with UNICEF Slovenia and Slovenian Association of Friends of ​Youth.

He is also the president of the Slovenian branch of the oldest gastronomic association in the world, ​Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, and a member of its Conseil Magistral. He is married and lives with his wife and two children in Ljubljana.