CAP honours SA ambassador with gala reception
Staff Report
The Contemporary Art Platform (CAP) and Mr. Amer Huneidi, held a gala dinner reception in honour of South African Ambassador Dr. Manelisi Genge on Thursday May 16 at the CAP premises in Shuwaikh.
The dinner reception welcomed a distinguished gathering of diplomats, artists and art patrons and provided a perfect setting to pay tribute to his excellency the Ambassador of South Africa and celebrate the vibrant culture, history and traditions of South Africa.
Addressing the guests Mr Amer Huneidi stated that since CAP inception, we have assumed the responsibility of crafting an– innovative vision–to establish a contemporary artistic culture that aligns with Kuwait pioneering role.
He further added that this reflected the platform belief in art’s role as a fundamental element and catalyst in shaping the visions and components of human culture at large, pointing out that this was where its pivotal role emerges as an important indicator of social progress and an instrument for change.
Elaborating he said that art has indeed been able to create a more beautiful parallel-world while, at the same time, serving as an outcry against violence, injustice, dictatorship, and tyranny.
In conclusion he thanked the government of South Africa for its pioneering role in supporting the Palestinian people in their ongoing predicament and struggle, and not–the–least for having the moral courage to pose brave questions and put–in the lime–light on the state of justice in our world.
Ambassador Dr Genge expressed his profound gratitude to Mr Huneidi and the Contemporary Art Platform, for the honour and privilege in hosting this special event under the theme ‘Welcome to South Africa’.
In his remarks he noted that 2024 marked the 30th Anniversary of democracy in South Africa. This anniversary not only presented an opportunity to reflect on the past 30 years but coincided with several historic milestones in the nation’s fight for fundamental rights and freedom such as the opportunity for all South Africans to participate in the seventh National Elections since the dawn of democracy to be held on 29 May this year.
He told the gathering “South Africa is a 360-degree experience with captivating surroundings, vibrant culture, pleasant year-round weather, thriving wildlife, and a wide array of adventure sports and activities to explore in the Rainbow Nation. From its spectacular scenery to electrifying nightlife, charming small towns, delicious food, friendly people, and cultural experiences, it is a land filled with distinctive experiences to enable tourists to create memories for a lifetime.”
He further added that on the global front, South Africa has taken its rightful place as a responsible player amongst the community of nations, contributing to the advancement of the African Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want, effective multilateralism, solidarity, and a peaceful and just world order. The country is committed to playing a constructive role on the African Continent and globally for the realisation of a better Africa and a better world. For a better world, South Africa strives for the achievement of international human rights; implementation of the international law in an unbiased and fair way, and a rules-based international order for all, in an equal manner.
