Staff WriterThe country known as the Smiling Coast of Africa will definitely be smiling during the International Roots Festival set to take place from February 4th -8th 2011. The Ministry of Tourism and Culture of the Republic of Gambia has appointed noted African broadcast commentator Ogo Sow as the Official Promoter in the United States and North America for The Gambia’s 10th edition of the festival. All people with roots in Africa and also those interested in learning about Africa and its Diaspora are invited to attend and take part in the festivities.
Known affectionately in the United States as ‘Mr. Africa’, Sow is an accomplished African television and radio pioneer, producer and publisher. He also a special advisor and consultant to the Africa Travel Association (ATA), where he has reported extensively on major stories about Africa. In 2001 he launched Ogo Sow Communication Network, a series of African radio programs where he interviews individuals and reports on information about the Diaspora worldwide. One of the finest commentators on Africa, Sow has received many awards from the media and community organizations in recognition of his work on African politics, culture, music, events and tourism.
A native of Senegal, Sow is proud to be an official promoter of the West African festival, but says that he is not in it alone. “Networking is the key to making this a successful 2011 Roots Festival,” says Sow, who has solicited help from several leaders of different organizations. “The African Diaspora helping each other and Africa in terms of tourism, invesment, culture and Green-energy is very important,” he explains. Sow believes that events like the Roots Festival are just one part of countries and organizations of the Diaspora becoming involved with Africa.
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