Shiri Achu launches ‘first pan-African fabric’ in D.C.
Photo (L-R): Council woman Wala Blegay, H.E. Hilda Suka Mafudze, H.E. Henri Etoundi Essomba, Shiri Achu, and Madam Jan Du Plain / © Cameroonian Embassy, D.C.
The Cameroonian Embassy in Washington, D.C., transformed into a hub of culture and art as it hosted the official launch of the ‘first pan-African fabric’ by Shiri Achu Art on 25 April 2025. The remarkable evening combined the power of visual art with a unique, cultural, culinary dining experience, in celebration of African unity.
The pan-African fabric showcased symbols derived from African nations representing the North, East, South, West, and Central Africa; more specifically from countries like Egypt, Ethiopia, South Africa, Nigeria, Cameroon, Ghana, Central African Republic, Kenya, and Morocco; thus, embodying the whole of Africa.
There were representatives from the countries whose symbols form part of the ‘first of its kind pan-African fabric;’ including Prof. N. Sabry, Madam J. Faradanga, Mr. Oral Ofori, Madam F. Barnes, Madam E. Onyuma, Madam Ibezue, Madam A. Solomon, and Madam F. Noah.
The event also featured an impressive list of distinguished guests, including Cameroon’s Ambassador H.E. Henri Etoundi Essomba from Cameroon; Ambassador of the African Union, H.E. Hilda Suka Mafudze; Miss Africa USA; Miss Eritrea Universe; esteemed Madam Jan Du Plain; Professor Victor Mbarika; and Council woman Wala Blegay. Each of the distinguished guests brought their unique perspectives and support to this monumental celebration of African heritage and creativity.
“The Cameroonian Embassy was the perfect setting for this celebration of African culture and unity. The Pan-African fabric is more than just a fabric or design—it’s a tribute to the strength and beauty of our shared heritage,” said Achu, reflecting on the event.
The event featured inspiring speeches delivered by distinguished guests, whose words emphasized the significance of cultural unity and artistic innovation. The culinary highlight of the evening was the “Taste of Cameroon,” where 54 guests, each symbolically representing an African nation, enjoyed the traditional Cameroonian delicacy known as Achu.
The dish, rooted in Cameroonian heritage, was presented alongside an exhibition of Achu’s paintings. Among them was the depiction of a grandmother pounding coco yam, an essential ingredient in Achu; another was an artwork capturing the essence of the dish itself.
A dynamic fashion show followed, which was the unveiling of the pan-African fabric through a live presentation. Achu also presented a package of the pan-African fabric to the representatives of the eight African nations whose cultural symbols were part of the fabric’s design.
The evening celebrated Shiri Achu’s remarkable achievements. She was honoured with the United Council for Youth Empowerment’s (UCYE) 21st Century Most Contemporary Artist Award, and appointed as the UCYE African Cultural Ambassador to the United States, both recognizing her dedication to promoting African culture through her art.
As a celebrated multiple award Cameroonian visual artist and painter, Achu has dedicated her works to promoting and celebrating the rich culture of Africa. She recently received The International Prize Artist of the Year 2025 award as well as an Outstanding young Cameroonian Award 2025.
Achu’s art is gripping and engaging across the globe. From Cameroon to the United States, Czech Republic, Australia, Wales, Britain, Singapore, Germany, Kenya, Ghana etc. Her works (originals and signed limited prints) have been and are continually sought after all over the world. She has representatives in Cameroon, Czech Republic, U.S., and in Australia.
“The launch is the steppingstone for what is ahead. Each country will aim to engage a representative fashion designer to use the Pan-African fabric to design key pieces for a fashion show to take place in the near future. Location and date to be confirmed,” emphasized Achu. You can reach out to her through email, Facebook, Instagram, or through a phone call: +1 240 696 9297.
Written by Abeeb Lekan Sodiq
Abeeb Lekan Sodiq is a Managing Editor & Writer at theafricandream.net. He’s as well a Graphics Designer and also known as Arakunrin Lekan.
