Kumasi, Aug. 1, GNA - Mr Samuel Sarpong, Kumasi Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE), has asked Africans in the Diaspora to endeavour to participate in the upcoming Kumasi International Black Arts and Cultural Festival (KIBAC), scheduled for November 20-27, this year, in the Metropolis.

He said the festival would expose them to the rich cultural heritage, beliefs, practices and identity of the African and offer them (those in the Diaspora) the opportunity to invest in economic ventures in Ghana. Mr Sarpong noted that it was about time that Africans in the Diaspora returned home and invested massively in the economy.

These were contained in a statement signed by the MCE and copied to GN= A in Kumasi, following his recent trip to the United States, where he led a delegation to participate in the National Black Arts Festival in Atlanta. Mr Sarpong said: 93By virtue of their wealth, experience and expertis= e, Africans in the Diaspora can contribute meaningfully to improvement of the living conditions of the people if they pool their resources".

He said the Atlanta festival was a successful event showcasing the creative talents and global contributions of people of African descent. Mr Sarpong said highlights of KIBAC would include a grand durbar of the chiefs and people of Asanteman, street carnivals, colloquium to be hosted b= y the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Women's Day, Fash= ion and Awards Night, as well as Theatre Performance.

There would also be traditional music and dance, Children's Day and performers from the London Carnival Arts, with many invitees from all walks of life would be expected to grace the occasion.