Update, 9 August: Africa Village is currently closed, and it is unclear whether it will reopen before the end of the Games. We will continue to monitor the situation and bring you the latest.
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London’s historic Kensington Gardens will transform into the African continent during this year’s Olympic Games whenofficially opens its gates on July 27.
For the first time in the history of the Olympic Games, the 53 African National Olympic Committees (NOCs) will host a hospitality house. Boasting an incomparable cultural experience in the heart of London, Africa Village will represent the best of each African country and welcome all visitors through August 12, free of charge.
“We created Africa Village to offer the public, the National Olympic Committees and African athletes a unique opportunity to fully participate in the Olympic festivities, whatever their means,” said Intendant Lassana Palenfo, president of the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa.
Africa Village will consist of Africa Land and Africa House. When visitors enter Africa Land, a photo exhibition of 50 of Africa’s legendary Olympians will welcome them. Tourists have access to Africa Land from 9 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily.
Several stands will spotlight Africa’s cultural and artistic riches with fashion shows, dancing, modern and traditional music concerts. Dance to the beat of an Ethiopian drummer, move to the tunes of Nigerian musicians and groove to the sounds of an Angolian bassist, among other confirmed artists. Daily concerts will hit the stage from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Fans of African cuisine may sample savory native dishes at Africa Village’s restaurant, which will serve a variety of midday and evening meals. Guests can view live action of the latest Olympic news on giant screens throughout Africa Village, and cheer on African athletes as they celebrate their medals, and are interviewed live on stage.
While Africa Land is open to the public, Africa House is reserved for athletes; partners; political, economic and artistic officials; African sporting leaders and members of the media.
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