Carnival in Africa unveils parade competition

CARNIVAL in Africa has launched a competition to schools, universities, technikons and other organizations and societies, its objective being to act as a showcase for these institutions to display the talents and skills of their diversely talented students and members. The first prize is worth R20 000.
The rules of the competition are easy. Each institution or organization should submit its concept and implementation plans of how to make the parades of Carnival in Africa a success.
These can range from a theme float to a troupe of gymnastic entertainers. A panel of judges will select the 10 best ideas that will be included in the parades.
On the days of the parades, the judges will select three winners using a points system and award the prizes at the Carnival Grounds as part of the Reconciliation Day celebrations.
Says Seshnee Naidu, project manager for Carnival in Africa: "We trust that this exciting competition will result in many entries and that we discover and uncover ideas and proposals that can be grown into economically viable projects for many areas.
"This year we are laying the foundations of the 'national carnival' concept, which we anticipate will grow into a prime domestic and international tourism event in the next five to seven years. It is therefore important for as many cultural and educational institutions as possible to enter the competition."
Carnival in Africa takes place on December 15 and 16 and consists of parades through Johannesburg and Pretoria and nightly entertainment at the Carnival Grounds in Midrand.

(Elizabeth Sheridan)