African Roots and Heritage Foundation
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Member Volunteer Application/Demande de membre bénévole
Greetings from the Executive Director
About Us
The African Roots and Heritage Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization recognized by the US. Federal Government and three states, Michigan, Ohio ...
To bring together, Nationally and Internationally, the various African and African American Cultures represented to share cultures, to strengthen the ...
Leadership Team
My name is KWENKEU TONDJI Tatiana Mélissa, and I am a Cameroonian coming from the town of Bangangté, in the west region. Academically, i have two master degrees to my credit, one in Iberian Studies and the other in Corporate Communication. It is pride for me to be a member of the African Roots and Heritage Foundation, as an interpreter from English to French and vice versa. I am passionate about cultural tourism and the African and Afro descendant's history, and being part of this community gives me the opportunity to realize on of my dearest dream by participating in the reconstruction of the bridge between African and Heritage Diaspora.
My name is KWENKEU TONDJI Tatiana Mélissa, and I am a Cameroonian coming from the town of Bangangté, in the west region. Academically, i have two master degrees to my credit, one in Iberian Studies and the other in Corporate Communication. It is pride for me to be a member of the African Roots and Heritage Foundation, as an interpreter from English to French and vice versa. I am passionate about cultural tourism and the African and Afro descendant's history, and being part of this community gives me the opportunity to realize on of my dearest dream by participating in the reconstruction of the bridge between African and Heritage Diaspora.
In the year 1992, Feb, 22nd, a visual artist and creative being was born in a small poor family of 6 siblings living a few miles away from the capital city of Uganda-Kampala in a small village Rubaga. The grandson to the great Masoolita Paul, Kahimbara Ibrahim, Yosiya Kateeba and a son to Byaruhanga Charles and Aidah Byaruhanga, a Murungu Mutooro born in vain from home in the dark with the help of a local midwife from the neighborhood bungalow house . Raised and groomed by a number of amazing hands, (Nabana isaack founder Ramon Film productions Nateete-Uganda, Mr. Ssentuuya Godfrey, Pr. James Kato founder Jesus Worship Center, Atuhaire Gavin and Mwesiga Alex founders Kyuka youth outreach, Ssendege Paius-DJ and Hamfrey Nabimanya founder reach a hand Uganda). Grew up in different evironments, sarrounded with different atmospheres through which he was inspired to try out a lot of things due to the desires he had in his mind. Watching action movies in slum cinema halls, riding wooden bicycles, making handmade toy cars in wires and recycled wastes, climbing trees and summer saulting in wood saw dust. These, were preparing him for a great journey of his life.
Schooled from local government primary schools and later finished his journey of education in high school level 6.Unfortunately he lacked enough funds to contribute to his higher institutions/ universities. He chose to use his God given special ability of drawing and sketching to at least find means of earning a living and as well giving support to his family.
As it is said “if you want to take the island, you burn the boats”, he literally had art as the only tool of surviving in life. Through his entire life he has been admiring and aspiring of doing great art pieces and projects with the inspirations drawn from the legendary artists he could bench mark with i.e. Leonardo Davinchi , Felix Lubega, and Taaga.
Through daily inspirations,a self taught artist himself Kateeba Joel was made. Facing criticms and challenges from art industry, he instead ignored and focused on the big fish.
In the year 2019, traveled to Guajarat State –INDIA as a one of the chosen artists to represent Africa and its culture in the Mahatma Gandhi Art camp- saputara hotel and some of his pieces featured in the Global art festival -same state. In the same year partnered with ARTOLUTION International organization based in USA basically to extend love through art in refugee camps and coming up with murals for public transformation of lives in Northern Uganda and west Nile region. He taught and skilled teaching artists in different parts of the nation mostly Yumbe district and Arua. Using his creative mind, he started up an art business KateebAfro Paints Art generated from his sur name Kateeba and the fact that he is an African. Came up with an art platform (MUNZE) “Meaning within me” for artists to exhibit their works, sell, exchange ideas and showcase their own created skills. This later advanced in to a company limited by shares with an aim of seeing creative communities able to set up sustainable income sources using their strength of art.
In the year 2019, represented his area of expertise in the Artizen international ambassadors conference that took place at UNCC (Uganda National Cultural Center)-Kampala.
In the year 2020, traveled to Tanzania and Zanzibar through an affiliation with the TAI ( Teaching Artist Institute) based in the USA and TAI TOURS as a curator and visual artist representing Uganda at the Tasuba school of arts Bagamoyo memorial place historically well known for slavery in early ages . Traveled to Kenya –Shianda town to share his art skills with the community duelers through an affiliation with Grow to Biuld Uganda organization lead by Sisa Mc wasswa based in Uganda –Kawempe Nkere.
In the 2021, he launched a book he wrote for a full year entitled “ART A SOLUTION”, In this book, his aim was to be a narrative that art can be the only solution to several questions of mankind. He discovered that humans go through a lot of emotional, spiritual and mental challenges that can be zeroed down with art as the solution. He went further to make a short documentation of some artists that have different art spaces, techniques and identities.
In the year 2021, he worked on one of his biggest art project entitled “WE ARE GOING TO MARS” doing prop designing and recycling of materials using his art strengths. In this project he worked alongside the official director of the whole production –Sylar Robert Ssempijja and Teflon films celebrating the African hero Edward Festus Mukuka Nkoloso of the Zambia National Academy of science Space and Research Philosophy (1960).
Art to him is like another way of living and a universal language to communicate to all creations in the universe.
In the year 1992, Feb, 22nd, a visual artist and creative being was born in a small poor family of 6 siblings living a few miles away from the capital city of Uganda-Kampala in a small village Rubaga. The grandson to the great Masoolita Paul, Kahimbara Ibrahim, Yosiya Kateeba and a son to Byaruhanga Charles and Aidah Byaruhanga, a Murungu Mutooro born in vain from home in the dark with the help of a local midwife from the neighborhood bungalow house . Raised and groomed by a number of amazing hands, (Nabana isaack founder Ramon Film productions Nateete-Uganda, Mr. Ssentuuya Godfrey, Pr. James Kato founder Jesus Worship Center, Atuhaire Gavin and Mwesiga Alex founders Kyuka youth outreach, Ssendege Paius-DJ and Hamfrey Nabimanya founder reach a hand Uganda). Grew up in different evironments, sarrounded with different atmospheres through which he was inspired to try out a lot of things due to the desires he had in his mind. Watching action movies in slum cinema halls, riding wooden bicycles, making handmade toy cars in wires and recycled wastes, climbing trees and summer saulting in wood saw dust. These, were preparing him for a great journey of his life.
Schooled from local government primary schools and later finished his journey of education in high school level 6.Unfortunately he lacked enough funds to contribute to his higher institutions/ universities. He chose to use his God given special ability of drawing and sketching to at least find means of earning a living and as well giving support to his family.
As it is said “if you want to take the island, you burn the boats”, he literally had art as the only tool of surviving in life. Through his entire life he has been admiring and aspiring of doing great art pieces and projects with the inspirations drawn from the legendary artists he could bench mark with i.e. Leonardo Davinchi , Felix Lubega, and Taaga.
Through daily inspirations,a self taught artist himself Kateeba Joel was made. Facing criticms and challenges from art industry, he instead ignored and focused on the big fish.
In the year 2019, traveled to Guajarat State –INDIA as a one of the chosen artists to represent Africa and its culture in the Mahatma Gandhi Art camp- saputara hotel and some of his pieces featured in the Global art festival -same state. In the same year partnered with ARTOLUTION International organization based in USA basically to extend love through art in refugee camps and coming up with murals for public transformation of lives in Northern Uganda and west Nile region. He taught and skilled teaching artists in different parts of the nation mostly Yumbe district and Arua. Using his creative mind, he started up an art business KateebAfro Paints Art generated from his sur name Kateeba and the fact that he is an African. Came up with an art platform (MUNZE) “Meaning within me” for artists to exhibit their works, sell, exchange ideas and showcase their own created skills. This later advanced in to a company limited by shares with an aim of seeing creative communities able to set up sustainable income sources using their strength of art.
In the year 2019, represented his area of expertise in the Artizen international ambassadors conference that took place at UNCC (Uganda National Cultural Center)-Kampala.
In the year 2020, traveled to Tanzania and Zanzibar through an affiliation with the TAI ( Teaching Artist Institute) based in the USA and TAI TOURS as a curator and visual artist representing Uganda at the Tasuba school of arts Bagamoyo memorial place historically well known for slavery in early ages . Traveled to Kenya –Shianda town to share his art skills with the community duelers through an affiliation with Grow to Biuld Uganda organization lead by Sisa Mc wasswa based in Uganda –Kawempe Nkere.
In the 2021, he launched a book he wrote for a full year entitled “ART A SOLUTION”, In this book, his aim was to be a narrative that art can be the only solution to several questions of mankind. He discovered that humans go through a lot of emotional, spiritual and mental challenges that can be zeroed down with art as the solution. He went further to make a short documentation of some artists that have different art spaces, techniques and identities.
In the year 2021, he worked on one of his biggest art project entitled “WE ARE GOING TO MARS” doing prop designing and recycling of materials using his art strengths. In this project he worked alongside the official director of the whole production –Sylar Robert Ssempijja and Teflon films celebrating the African hero Edward Festus Mukuka Nkoloso of the Zambia National Academy of science Space and Research Philosophy (1960).
Art to him is like another way of living and a universal language to communicate to all creations in the universe.
Professor Anita M. Diop is the Executive Director of a small staff and volunteers who are committed to the vision and mission of the African Roots and Heritage Foundation. Professor Anita M. Diop is currently teaching African American and American History at Hopkinsville Community College and serves as the Adviser for the Minority Student Union and the History Club. She is also the Founder and Executive Director for the African Roots and Heritage Foundation (ARHF). ARHF is a non-profit organization with a mission to share African Culture through public programs such as the African Roots and Heritage Festival which drew 19 African Nations together to plan and participate building the bridges between the Diaspora and the African continent. Their Motto is “Celebrating Our Heritage, while confronting the Challenges of being Black”.
Professor Diop specializes in the Culture and Arts and her scholarly works, include, Katherine Dunham: An African American Cultural Icon and various essays and articles. Professor Diop also is a travel photographer and has exhibited her photographic essay, entitled Eyes of the AfricanPrincess, at Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History and many other government sites, colleges, and universities. To her credit she is also an award winning short film Director and Producer of “Concrete Roses”.
In 2010 Anita was elected at the Ohio Representative for the Sixth Regional Diaspora Caucus and later became the International Representative to the African Union. She has sat on the 3rd and 4th Pan African Cultural Congress, and the 3rd Minister of Culture (CAMC3) and the Youth, Culture, and Sport (STC-YCS2). Her most recent accomplishment includes participating in The 1st African Union Pan African Writer's Conference, and was elected as representative of the Diaspora for the Bureau's Meeting.
She is known as the Spirit of Africa because of her passionate works on bringing cultural awareness and participating in the ongoing Africana Renaissance and uplifting African people no matter where they dwell.
Diaspora hears the Voice of our Ancestors
AU Appoints ARHF Executive Director, Professor Anita M. Diop as a member of ALWCC
ARHF Partners with University of Yaounde to Launch the Anita M. Diop Scholarship of Excellence
ACALAN unveils the African Languages Week Logo
Professor Anita M Diop was elected to lead the Activities and Key Message sub-committee
ACALAN-AU Launches African Languages Week
The Executive Director participates in the Uganda Program, TWENDE
ARHF Partners with CERDOTOLA for CIC 2022
Professor Anita M. Diop is the Executive Director of a small staff and volunteers who are committed to the vision and mission of the African Roots and Heritage Foundation. Professor Anita M. Diop is currently teaching African American and American History at Hopkinsville Community College and serves as the Adviser for the Minority Student Union and the History Club. She is also the Founder and Executive Director for the African Roots and Heritage Foundation (ARHF). ARHF is a non-profit organization with a mission to share African Culture through public programs such as the African Roots and Heritage Festival which drew 19 African Nations together to plan and participate building the bridges between the Diaspora and the African continent. Their Motto is “Celebrating Our Heritage, while confronting the Challenges of being Black”.
Professor Diop specializes in the Culture and Arts and her scholarly works, include, Katherine Dunham: An African American Cultural Icon and various essays and articles. Professor Diop also is a travel photographer and has exhibited her photographic essay, entitled Eyes of the AfricanPrincess, at Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History and many other government sites, colleges, and universities. To her credit she is also an award winning short film Director and Producer of “Concrete Roses”.
In 2010 Anita was elected at the Ohio Representative for the Sixth Regional Diaspora Caucus and later became the International Representative to the African Union. She has sat on the 3rd and 4th Pan African Cultural Congress, and the 3rd Minister of Culture (CAMC3) and the Youth, Culture, and Sport (STC-YCS2). Her most recent accomplishment includes participating in The 1st African Union Pan African Writer's Conference, and was elected as representative of the Diaspora for the Bureau's Meeting.
She is known as the Spirit of Africa because of her passionate works on bringing cultural awareness and participating in the ongoing Africana Renaissance and uplifting African people no matter where they dwell.
Diaspora hears the Voice of our Ancestors
AU Appoints ARHF Executive Director, Professor Anita M. Diop as a member of ALWCC
ARHF Partners with University of Yaounde to Launch the Anita M. Diop Scholarship of Excellence
ACALAN unveils the African Languages Week Logo
Professor Anita M Diop was elected to lead the Activities and Key Message sub-committee
ACALAN-AU Launches African Languages Week
The Executive Director participates in the Uganda Program, TWENDE
ARHF Partners with CERDOTOLA for CIC 2022
Dr. Mbu Dora Nyuykighan is currently a Senior Lecturer in the Department of African Literature and Civilisations, University of Yaounde I, Cameroon. Prior to this, she has taught in some Universities in Nigeria, Federal Univeristy Lokoja (2012-2020), and Kaduna State University (2009-2011). She is a holder of a BA English from the University of Buea, Cameroon, M.A. Literature, Ahmadu Bello Unviersity Zaria, Nigeria and a PhD in African Literature, Univeristy of Yaounde I, Cameroon. She holds a PGD in Peace and Conflict Studies. Dr. Mbu is an author and has published a number of scholarly articles in preferred journals as well as presented various well-researched papers at both local and international conferences.
She is a member of several Professional bodies and Associations such as:
The Nigerian Folklore Society
Linguistic Association of Nigeria
English Scholars’Association of Nigeria
Her research activities are currently multiple and engaging the students: The first explores the domains of African Literature, Gender Studies and African Oral Literature. The second advances the call for a return to our African roots and heritage through the valorisation of the African culture and languages. The third is the restitution and preservation of African artefacts.
As an Educator, Dr. Mbu’s passion to share her findings with youth gives the students the opportunity to visit several Kingdoms in different regions of Cameroon to study and know more about: 1) the African artefacts, 2) identify those stolen during the colonial period, 3) clamour for their return to their abodes of origin as well as 4) the different ways to preserve sacred objects and artefacts. As the Assistant Director of ARHF, this is the bridge between classroom methodologies and fieldwork.
Knowing that our children are our future, she feels her contribution is to work hand in hand with the students, engaing them to strive to do the best for themselves and Cameroon at large. In the spirit of African Renaissance, her activities fosters reconnection with the youth in our ancient traditions and customs. As a researcher, she advocates for traditional peace and conflict resolution in our communities. With this body of knowledge, professional repertoire we welcome Dr. Mbu as the Assistant Director of the African Roots and Heritage Foundation Cameroon branch.
Dr. Mbu Dora Nyuykighan is currently a Senior Lecturer in the Department of African Literature and Civilisations, University of Yaounde I, Cameroon. Prior to this, she has taught in some Universities in Nigeria, Federal Univeristy Lokoja (2012-2020), and Kaduna State University (2009-2011). She is a holder of a BA English from the University of Buea, Cameroon, M.A. Literature, Ahmadu Bello Unviersity Zaria, Nigeria and a PhD in African Literature, Univeristy of Yaounde I, Cameroon. She holds a PGD in Peace and Conflict Studies. Dr. Mbu is an author and has published a number of scholarly articles in preferred journals as well as presented various well-researched papers at both local and international conferences.
She is a member of several Professional bodies and Associations such as:
The Nigerian Folklore Society
Linguistic Association of Nigeria
English Scholars’Association of Nigeria
Her research activities are currently multiple and engaging the students: The first explores the domains of African Literature, Gender Studies and African Oral Literature. The second advances the call for a return to our African roots and heritage through the valorisation of the African culture and languages. The third is the restitution and preservation of African artefacts.
As an Educator, Dr. Mbu’s passion to share her findings with youth gives the students the opportunity to visit several Kingdoms in different regions of Cameroon to study and know more about: 1) the African artefacts, 2) identify those stolen during the colonial period, 3) clamour for their return to their abodes of origin as well as 4) the different ways to preserve sacred objects and artefacts. As the Assistant Director of ARHF, this is the bridge between classroom methodologies and fieldwork.
Knowing that our children are our future, she feels her contribution is to work hand in hand with the students, engaing them to strive to do the best for themselves and Cameroon at large. In the spirit of African Renaissance, her activities fosters reconnection with the youth in our ancient traditions and customs. As a researcher, she advocates for traditional peace and conflict resolution in our communities. With this body of knowledge, professional repertoire we welcome Dr. Mbu as the Assistant Director of the African Roots and Heritage Foundation Cameroon branch.
Husband, father, entrepreneur, industry leader, fitness
icon, philosopher, author, artist, athlete, thought leader
Siphiwe Ka Baleka comes to joining the ARHF Team as a Board of Director. He is currently residing in Guinea Bissau, where he traced his roots and repatriated to his lost homeland.
Siphiwe Baleka is the founder of Fitness Trucking, LLC and is recognized as the #1 Driver
Health and Fitness Coach in the world. The Atlantic called him "The Fitness Guru to the
Trucking Industry." In 2017, Baleka won a Sports Emmy for “Outstanding Short
Feature” for the Fox Sports documentary “Changing Lanes: The Siphiwe Baleka Story”.
Raised in Chicago by a single dad, he graduated from Yale University and is the first African
American ever named to the First Team All-Ivy League Swim Team. He missed qualifying
for the 1992 US Olympic Swimming Trials in the 100 freestyle by just 0.8 seconds! Since
then, Baleka has become one of the best Masters Swimmers in the world. He has won
thirteen US Masters Swimming National Championships, set three US Masters
Swimming National Records, and has won four FINA Masters Swimming World
Championship silver medals. He has served as the Director of the African Union 6th
Region Education Campaign and currently serves on the National Coalition of Black for
Reparations in America (N'COBRA) International Affairs Commission, its Health
Commission, as well as the International Civil Society Working Group for the Permanent
Forum of People of African Descent at the United Nations. He is the author of several
books, including five volumes on 21st Century Black Prophetic Faith and Pan African
Diplomacy, three volumes on the history of the Balanta people and the landmark book,
4-Minute Fit (Simon & Schuster).
Husband, father, entrepreneur, industry leader, fitness
icon, philosopher, author, artist, athlete, thought leader
Siphiwe Ka Baleka comes to joining the ARHF Team as a Board of Director. He is currently residing in Guinea Bissau, where he traced his roots and repatriated to his lost homeland.
Siphiwe Baleka is the founder of Fitness Trucking, LLC and is recognized as the #1 Driver
Health and Fitness Coach in the world. The Atlantic called him "The Fitness Guru to the
Trucking Industry." In 2017, Baleka won a Sports Emmy for “Outstanding Short
Feature” for the Fox Sports documentary “Changing Lanes: The Siphiwe Baleka Story”.
Raised in Chicago by a single dad, he graduated from Yale University and is the first African
American ever named to the First Team All-Ivy League Swim Team. He missed qualifying
for the 1992 US Olympic Swimming Trials in the 100 freestyle by just 0.8 seconds! Since
then, Baleka has become one of the best Masters Swimmers in the world. He has won
thirteen US Masters Swimming National Championships, set three US Masters
Swimming National Records, and has won four FINA Masters Swimming World
Championship silver medals. He has served as the Director of the African Union 6th
Region Education Campaign and currently serves on the National Coalition of Black for
Reparations in America (N'COBRA) International Affairs Commission, its Health
Commission, as well as the International Civil Society Working Group for the Permanent
Forum of People of African Descent at the United Nations. He is the author of several
books, including five volumes on 21st Century Black Prophetic Faith and Pan African
Diplomacy, three volumes on the history of the Balanta people and the landmark book,
4-Minute Fit (Simon & Schuster).
Dr. Ahmad Bello is the Youth/Student Coordinator and Essay Contest Judge for French Speaking Students for our Global Day of Community Service. He is native to Cameroon.
Dr. Ahmad Bello is the Youth/Student Coordinator and Essay Contest Judge for French Speaking Students for our Global Day of Community Service. He is native to Cameroon.
Mrs. NDZEHNGAH JEANNETTE Epse Fongwen, is the Administrative Assistant at the African Roots and Heritage Foundation office in Yaounde, Cameroon. She obtained a degree in History with an emphasis with International Relations. Jeannette also possess a Diploma in Business Planning and Management. She has experience in administrative works and is an entrepreneur selling baby's items and professional cake designer and baker.
Mrs. NDZEHNGAH JEANNETTE Epse Fongwen, is the Administrative Assistant at the African Roots and Heritage Foundation office in Yaounde, Cameroon. She obtained a degree in History with an emphasis with International Relations. Jeannette also possess a Diploma in Business Planning and Management. She has experience in administrative works and is an entrepreneur selling baby's items and professional cake designer and baker.
My name is KWENKEU TONDJI Tatiana Mélissa, and I am a Cameroonian coming from the town of Bangangté, in the west region. Academically, i have two master degrees to my credit, one in Iberian Studies and the other in Corporate Communication. It is pride for me to be a member of the African Roots and Heritage Foundation, as an interpreter from English to French and vice versa. I am passionate about cultural tourism and the African and Afro descendant's history, and being part of this community gives me the opportunity to realize on of my dearest dream by participating in the reconstruction of the bridge between African and Heritage Diaspora.
My name is KWENKEU TONDJI Tatiana Mélissa, and I am a Cameroonian coming from the town of Bangangté, in the west region. Academically, i have two master degrees to my credit, one in Iberian Studies and the other in Corporate Communication. It is pride for me to be a member of the African Roots and Heritage Foundation, as an interpreter from English to French and vice versa. I am passionate about cultural tourism and the African and Afro descendant's history, and being part of this community gives me the opportunity to realize on of my dearest dream by participating in the reconstruction of the bridge between African and Heritage Diaspora.
In the year 1992, Feb, 22nd, a visual artist and creative being was born in a small poor family of 6 siblings living a few miles away from the capital city of Uganda-Kampala in a small village Rubaga. The grandson to the great Masoolita Paul, Kahimbara Ibrahim, Yosiya Kateeba and a son to Byaruhanga Charles and Aidah Byaruhanga, a Murungu Mutooro born in vain from home in the dark with the help of a local midwife from the neighborhood bungalow house . Raised and groomed by a number of amazing hands, (Nabana isaack founder Ramon Film productions Nateete-Uganda, Mr. Ssentuuya Godfrey, Pr. James Kato founder Jesus Worship Center, Atuhaire Gavin and Mwesiga Alex founders Kyuka youth outreach, Ssendege Paius-DJ and Hamfrey Nabimanya founder reach a hand Uganda). Grew up in different evironments, sarrounded with different atmospheres through which he was inspired to try out a lot of things due to the desires he had in his mind. Watching action movies in slum cinema halls, riding wooden bicycles, making handmade toy cars in wires and recycled wastes, climbing trees and summer saulting in wood saw dust. These, were preparing him for a great journey of his life.
Schooled from local government primary schools and later finished his journey of education in high school level 6.Unfortunately he lacked enough funds to contribute to his higher institutions/ universities. He chose to use his God given special ability of drawing and sketching to at least find means of earning a living and as well giving support to his family.
As it is said “if you want to take the island, you burn the boats”, he literally had art as the only tool of surviving in life. Through his entire life he has been admiring and aspiring of doing great art pieces and projects with the inspirations drawn from the legendary artists he could bench mark with i.e. Leonardo Davinchi , Felix Lubega, and Taaga.
Through daily inspirations,a self taught artist himself Kateeba Joel was made. Facing criticms and challenges from art industry, he instead ignored and focused on the big fish.
In the year 2019, traveled to Guajarat State –INDIA as a one of the chosen artists to represent Africa and its culture in the Mahatma Gandhi Art camp- saputara hotel and some of his pieces featured in the Global art festival -same state. In the same year partnered with ARTOLUTION International organization based in USA basically to extend love through art in refugee camps and coming up with murals for public transformation of lives in Northern Uganda and west Nile region. He taught and skilled teaching artists in different parts of the nation mostly Yumbe district and Arua. Using his creative mind, he started up an art business KateebAfro Paints Art generated from his sur name Kateeba and the fact that he is an African. Came up with an art platform (MUNZE) “Meaning within me” for artists to exhibit their works, sell, exchange ideas and showcase their own created skills. This later advanced in to a company limited by shares with an aim of seeing creative communities able to set up sustainable income sources using their strength of art.
In the year 2019, represented his area of expertise in the Artizen international ambassadors conference that took place at UNCC (Uganda National Cultural Center)-Kampala.
In the year 2020, traveled to Tanzania and Zanzibar through an affiliation with the TAI ( Teaching Artist Institute) based in the USA and TAI TOURS as a curator and visual artist representing Uganda at the Tasuba school of arts Bagamoyo memorial place historically well known for slavery in early ages . Traveled to Kenya –Shianda town to share his art skills with the community duelers through an affiliation with Grow to Biuld Uganda organization lead by Sisa Mc wasswa based in Uganda –Kawempe Nkere.
In the 2021, he launched a book he wrote for a full year entitled “ART A SOLUTION”, In this book, his aim was to be a narrative that art can be the only solution to several questions of mankind. He discovered that humans go through a lot of emotional, spiritual and mental challenges that can be zeroed down with art as the solution. He went further to make a short documentation of some artists that have different art spaces, techniques and identities.
In the year 2021, he worked on one of his biggest art project entitled “WE ARE GOING TO MARS” doing prop designing and recycling of materials using his art strengths. In this project he worked alongside the official director of the whole production –Sylar Robert Ssempijja and Teflon films celebrating the African hero Edward Festus Mukuka Nkoloso of the Zambia National Academy of science Space and Research Philosophy (1960).
Art to him is like another way of living and a universal language to communicate to all creations in the universe.
In the year 1992, Feb, 22nd, a visual artist and creative being was born in a small poor family of 6 siblings living a few miles away from the capital city of Uganda-Kampala in a small village Rubaga. The grandson to the great Masoolita Paul, Kahimbara Ibrahim, Yosiya Kateeba and a son to Byaruhanga Charles and Aidah Byaruhanga, a Murungu Mutooro born in vain from home in the dark with the help of a local midwife from the neighborhood bungalow house . Raised and groomed by a number of amazing hands, (Nabana isaack founder Ramon Film productions Nateete-Uganda, Mr. Ssentuuya Godfrey, Pr. James Kato founder Jesus Worship Center, Atuhaire Gavin and Mwesiga Alex founders Kyuka youth outreach, Ssendege Paius-DJ and Hamfrey Nabimanya founder reach a hand Uganda). Grew up in different evironments, sarrounded with different atmospheres through which he was inspired to try out a lot of things due to the desires he had in his mind. Watching action movies in slum cinema halls, riding wooden bicycles, making handmade toy cars in wires and recycled wastes, climbing trees and summer saulting in wood saw dust. These, were preparing him for a great journey of his life.
Schooled from local government primary schools and later finished his journey of education in high school level 6.Unfortunately he lacked enough funds to contribute to his higher institutions/ universities. He chose to use his God given special ability of drawing and sketching to at least find means of earning a living and as well giving support to his family.
As it is said “if you want to take the island, you burn the boats”, he literally had art as the only tool of surviving in life. Through his entire life he has been admiring and aspiring of doing great art pieces and projects with the inspirations drawn from the legendary artists he could bench mark with i.e. Leonardo Davinchi , Felix Lubega, and Taaga.
Through daily inspirations,a self taught artist himself Kateeba Joel was made. Facing criticms and challenges from art industry, he instead ignored and focused on the big fish.
In the year 2019, traveled to Guajarat State –INDIA as a one of the chosen artists to represent Africa and its culture in the Mahatma Gandhi Art camp- saputara hotel and some of his pieces featured in the Global art festival -same state. In the same year partnered with ARTOLUTION International organization based in USA basically to extend love through art in refugee camps and coming up with murals for public transformation of lives in Northern Uganda and west Nile region. He taught and skilled teaching artists in different parts of the nation mostly Yumbe district and Arua. Using his creative mind, he started up an art business KateebAfro Paints Art generated from his sur name Kateeba and the fact that he is an African. Came up with an art platform (MUNZE) “Meaning within me” for artists to exhibit their works, sell, exchange ideas and showcase their own created skills. This later advanced in to a company limited by shares with an aim of seeing creative communities able to set up sustainable income sources using their strength of art.
In the year 2019, represented his area of expertise in the Artizen international ambassadors conference that took place at UNCC (Uganda National Cultural Center)-Kampala.
In the year 2020, traveled to Tanzania and Zanzibar through an affiliation with the TAI ( Teaching Artist Institute) based in the USA and TAI TOURS as a curator and visual artist representing Uganda at the Tasuba school of arts Bagamoyo memorial place historically well known for slavery in early ages . Traveled to Kenya –Shianda town to share his art skills with the community duelers through an affiliation with Grow to Biuld Uganda organization lead by Sisa Mc wasswa based in Uganda –Kawempe Nkere.
In the 2021, he launched a book he wrote for a full year entitled “ART A SOLUTION”, In this book, his aim was to be a narrative that art can be the only solution to several questions of mankind. He discovered that humans go through a lot of emotional, spiritual and mental challenges that can be zeroed down with art as the solution. He went further to make a short documentation of some artists that have different art spaces, techniques and identities.
In the year 2021, he worked on one of his biggest art project entitled “WE ARE GOING TO MARS” doing prop designing and recycling of materials using his art strengths. In this project he worked alongside the official director of the whole production –Sylar Robert Ssempijja and Teflon films celebrating the African hero Edward Festus Mukuka Nkoloso of the Zambia National Academy of science Space and Research Philosophy (1960).
Art to him is like another way of living and a universal language to communicate to all creations in the universe.
Professor Anita M. Diop is the Executive Director of a small staff and volunteers who are committed to the vision and mission of the African Roots and Heritage Foundation. Professor Anita M. Diop is currently teaching African American and American History at Hopkinsville Community College and serves as the Adviser for the Minority Student Union and the History Club. She is also the Founder and Executive Director for the African Roots and Heritage Foundation (ARHF). ARHF is a non-profit organization with a mission to share African Culture through public programs such as the African Roots and Heritage Festival which drew 19 African Nations together to plan and participate building the bridges between the Diaspora and the African continent. Their Motto is “Celebrating Our Heritage, while confronting the Challenges of being Black”.
Professor Diop specializes in the Culture and Arts and her scholarly works, include, Katherine Dunham: An African American Cultural Icon and various essays and articles. Professor Diop also is a travel photographer and has exhibited her photographic essay, entitled Eyes of the AfricanPrincess, at Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History and many other government sites, colleges, and universities. To her credit she is also an award winning short film Director and Producer of “Concrete Roses”.
In 2010 Anita was elected at the Ohio Representative for the Sixth Regional Diaspora Caucus and later became the International Representative to the African Union. She has sat on the 3rd and 4th Pan African Cultural Congress, and the 3rd Minister of Culture (CAMC3) and the Youth, Culture, and Sport (STC-YCS2). Her most recent accomplishment includes participating in The 1st African Union Pan African Writer's Conference, and was elected as representative of the Diaspora for the Bureau's Meeting.
She is known as the Spirit of Africa because of her passionate works on bringing cultural awareness and participating in the ongoing Africana Renaissance and uplifting African people no matter where they dwell.
Diaspora hears the Voice of our Ancestors
AU Appoints ARHF Executive Director, Professor Anita M. Diop as a member of ALWCC
ARHF Partners with University of Yaounde to Launch the Anita M. Diop Scholarship of Excellence
ACALAN unveils the African Languages Week Logo
Professor Anita M Diop was elected to lead the Activities and Key Message sub-committee
ACALAN-AU Launches African Languages Week
The Executive Director participates in the Uganda Program, TWENDE
ARHF Partners with CERDOTOLA for CIC 2022
Professor Anita M. Diop is the Executive Director of a small staff and volunteers who are committed to the vision and mission of the African Roots and Heritage Foundation. Professor Anita M. Diop is currently teaching African American and American History at Hopkinsville Community College and serves as the Adviser for the Minority Student Union and the History Club. She is also the Founder and Executive Director for the African Roots and Heritage Foundation (ARHF). ARHF is a non-profit organization with a mission to share African Culture through public programs such as the African Roots and Heritage Festival which drew 19 African Nations together to plan and participate building the bridges between the Diaspora and the African continent. Their Motto is “Celebrating Our Heritage, while confronting the Challenges of being Black”.
Professor Diop specializes in the Culture and Arts and her scholarly works, include, Katherine Dunham: An African American Cultural Icon and various essays and articles. Professor Diop also is a travel photographer and has exhibited her photographic essay, entitled Eyes of the AfricanPrincess, at Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History and many other government sites, colleges, and universities. To her credit she is also an award winning short film Director and Producer of “Concrete Roses”.
In 2010 Anita was elected at the Ohio Representative for the Sixth Regional Diaspora Caucus and later became the International Representative to the African Union. She has sat on the 3rd and 4th Pan African Cultural Congress, and the 3rd Minister of Culture (CAMC3) and the Youth, Culture, and Sport (STC-YCS2). Her most recent accomplishment includes participating in The 1st African Union Pan African Writer's Conference, and was elected as representative of the Diaspora for the Bureau's Meeting.
She is known as the Spirit of Africa because of her passionate works on bringing cultural awareness and participating in the ongoing Africana Renaissance and uplifting African people no matter where they dwell.
Diaspora hears the Voice of our Ancestors
AU Appoints ARHF Executive Director, Professor Anita M. Diop as a member of ALWCC
ARHF Partners with University of Yaounde to Launch the Anita M. Diop Scholarship of Excellence
ACALAN unveils the African Languages Week Logo
Professor Anita M Diop was elected to lead the Activities and Key Message sub-committee
ACALAN-AU Launches African Languages Week
The Executive Director participates in the Uganda Program, TWENDE
ARHF Partners with CERDOTOLA for CIC 2022
Dr. Mbu Dora Nyuykighan is currently a Senior Lecturer in the Department of African Literature and Civilisations, University of Yaounde I, Cameroon. Prior to this, she has taught in some Universities in Nigeria, Federal Univeristy Lokoja (2012-2020), and Kaduna State University (2009-2011). She is a holder of a BA English from the University of Buea, Cameroon, M.A. Literature, Ahmadu Bello Unviersity Zaria, Nigeria and a PhD in African Literature, Univeristy of Yaounde I, Cameroon. She holds a PGD in Peace and Conflict Studies. Dr. Mbu is an author and has published a number of scholarly articles in preferred journals as well as presented various well-researched papers at both local and international conferences.
She is a member of several Professional bodies and Associations such as:
The Nigerian Folklore Society
Linguistic Association of Nigeria
English Scholars’Association of Nigeria
Her research activities are currently multiple and engaging the students: The first explores the domains of African Literature, Gender Studies and African Oral Literature. The second advances the call for a return to our African roots and heritage through the valorisation of the African culture and languages. The third is the restitution and preservation of African artefacts.
As an Educator, Dr. Mbu’s passion to share her findings with youth gives the students the opportunity to visit several Kingdoms in different regions of Cameroon to study and know more about: 1) the African artefacts, 2) identify those stolen during the colonial period, 3) clamour for their return to their abodes of origin as well as 4) the different ways to preserve sacred objects and artefacts. As the Assistant Director of ARHF, this is the bridge between classroom methodologies and fieldwork.
Knowing that our children are our future, she feels her contribution is to work hand in hand with the students, engaing them to strive to do the best for themselves and Cameroon at large. In the spirit of African Renaissance, her activities fosters reconnection with the youth in our ancient traditions and customs. As a researcher, she advocates for traditional peace and conflict resolution in our communities. With this body of knowledge, professional repertoire we welcome Dr. Mbu as the Assistant Director of the African Roots and Heritage Foundation Cameroon branch.
Dr. Mbu Dora Nyuykighan is currently a Senior Lecturer in the Department of African Literature and Civilisations, University of Yaounde I, Cameroon. Prior to this, she has taught in some Universities in Nigeria, Federal Univeristy Lokoja (2012-2020), and Kaduna State University (2009-2011). She is a holder of a BA English from the University of Buea, Cameroon, M.A. Literature, Ahmadu Bello Unviersity Zaria, Nigeria and a PhD in African Literature, Univeristy of Yaounde I, Cameroon. She holds a PGD in Peace and Conflict Studies. Dr. Mbu is an author and has published a number of scholarly articles in preferred journals as well as presented various well-researched papers at both local and international conferences.
She is a member of several Professional bodies and Associations such as:
The Nigerian Folklore Society
Linguistic Association of Nigeria
English Scholars’Association of Nigeria
Her research activities are currently multiple and engaging the students: The first explores the domains of African Literature, Gender Studies and African Oral Literature. The second advances the call for a return to our African roots and heritage through the valorisation of the African culture and languages. The third is the restitution and preservation of African artefacts.
As an Educator, Dr. Mbu’s passion to share her findings with youth gives the students the opportunity to visit several Kingdoms in different regions of Cameroon to study and know more about: 1) the African artefacts, 2) identify those stolen during the colonial period, 3) clamour for their return to their abodes of origin as well as 4) the different ways to preserve sacred objects and artefacts. As the Assistant Director of ARHF, this is the bridge between classroom methodologies and fieldwork.
Knowing that our children are our future, she feels her contribution is to work hand in hand with the students, engaing them to strive to do the best for themselves and Cameroon at large. In the spirit of African Renaissance, her activities fosters reconnection with the youth in our ancient traditions and customs. As a researcher, she advocates for traditional peace and conflict resolution in our communities. With this body of knowledge, professional repertoire we welcome Dr. Mbu as the Assistant Director of the African Roots and Heritage Foundation Cameroon branch.
Husband, father, entrepreneur, industry leader, fitness
icon, philosopher, author, artist, athlete, thought leader
Siphiwe Ka Baleka comes to joining the ARHF Team as a Board of Director. He is currently residing in Guinea Bissau, where he traced his roots and repatriated to his lost homeland.
Siphiwe Baleka is the founder of Fitness Trucking, LLC and is recognized as the #1 Driver
Health and Fitness Coach in the world. The Atlantic called him "The Fitness Guru to the
Trucking Industry." In 2017, Baleka won a Sports Emmy for “Outstanding Short
Feature” for the Fox Sports documentary “Changing Lanes: The Siphiwe Baleka Story”.
Raised in Chicago by a single dad, he graduated from Yale University and is the first African
American ever named to the First Team All-Ivy League Swim Team. He missed qualifying
for the 1992 US Olympic Swimming Trials in the 100 freestyle by just 0.8 seconds! Since
then, Baleka has become one of the best Masters Swimmers in the world. He has won
thirteen US Masters Swimming National Championships, set three US Masters
Swimming National Records, and has won four FINA Masters Swimming World
Championship silver medals. He has served as the Director of the African Union 6th
Region Education Campaign and currently serves on the National Coalition of Black for
Reparations in America (N'COBRA) International Affairs Commission, its Health
Commission, as well as the International Civil Society Working Group for the Permanent
Forum of People of African Descent at the United Nations. He is the author of several
books, including five volumes on 21st Century Black Prophetic Faith and Pan African
Diplomacy, three volumes on the history of the Balanta people and the landmark book,
4-Minute Fit (Simon & Schuster).
Husband, father, entrepreneur, industry leader, fitness
icon, philosopher, author, artist, athlete, thought leader
Siphiwe Ka Baleka comes to joining the ARHF Team as a Board of Director. He is currently residing in Guinea Bissau, where he traced his roots and repatriated to his lost homeland.
Siphiwe Baleka is the founder of Fitness Trucking, LLC and is recognized as the #1 Driver
Health and Fitness Coach in the world. The Atlantic called him "The Fitness Guru to the
Trucking Industry." In 2017, Baleka won a Sports Emmy for “Outstanding Short
Feature” for the Fox Sports documentary “Changing Lanes: The Siphiwe Baleka Story”.
Raised in Chicago by a single dad, he graduated from Yale University and is the first African
American ever named to the First Team All-Ivy League Swim Team. He missed qualifying
for the 1992 US Olympic Swimming Trials in the 100 freestyle by just 0.8 seconds! Since
then, Baleka has become one of the best Masters Swimmers in the world. He has won
thirteen US Masters Swimming National Championships, set three US Masters
Swimming National Records, and has won four FINA Masters Swimming World
Championship silver medals. He has served as the Director of the African Union 6th
Region Education Campaign and currently serves on the National Coalition of Black for
Reparations in America (N'COBRA) International Affairs Commission, its Health
Commission, as well as the International Civil Society Working Group for the Permanent
Forum of People of African Descent at the United Nations. He is the author of several
books, including five volumes on 21st Century Black Prophetic Faith and Pan African
Diplomacy, three volumes on the history of the Balanta people and the landmark book,
4-Minute Fit (Simon & Schuster).
Dr. Ahmad Bello is the Youth/Student Coordinator and Essay Contest Judge for French Speaking Students for our Global Day of Community Service. He is native to Cameroon.
Dr. Ahmad Bello is the Youth/Student Coordinator and Essay Contest Judge for French Speaking Students for our Global Day of Community Service. He is native to Cameroon.
Mrs. NDZEHNGAH JEANNETTE Epse Fongwen, is the Administrative Assistant at the African Roots and Heritage Foundation office in Yaounde, Cameroon. She obtained a degree in History with an emphasis with International Relations. Jeannette also possess a Diploma in Business Planning and Management. She has experience in administrative works and is an entrepreneur selling baby's items and professional cake designer and baker.
Mrs. NDZEHNGAH JEANNETTE Epse Fongwen, is the Administrative Assistant at the African Roots and Heritage Foundation office in Yaounde, Cameroon. She obtained a degree in History with an emphasis with International Relations. Jeannette also possess a Diploma in Business Planning and Management. She has experience in administrative works and is an entrepreneur selling baby's items and professional cake designer and baker.
My name is KWENKEU TONDJI Tatiana Mélissa, and I am a Cameroonian coming from the town of Bangangté, in the west region. Academically, i have two master degrees to my credit, one in Iberian Studies and the other in Corporate Communication. It is pride for me to be a member of the African Roots and Heritage Foundation, as an interpreter from English to French and vice versa. I am passionate about cultural tourism and the African and Afro descendant's history, and being part of this community gives me the opportunity to realize on of my dearest dream by participating in the reconstruction of the bridge between African and Heritage Diaspora.
My name is KWENKEU TONDJI Tatiana Mélissa, and I am a Cameroonian coming from the town of Bangangté, in the west region. Academically, i have two master degrees to my credit, one in Iberian Studies and the other in Corporate Communication. It is pride for me to be a member of the African Roots and Heritage Foundation, as an interpreter from English to French and vice versa. I am passionate about cultural tourism and the African and Afro descendant's history, and being part of this community gives me the opportunity to realize on of my dearest dream by participating in the reconstruction of the bridge between African and Heritage Diaspora.
In the year 1992, Feb, 22nd, a visual artist and creative being was born in a small poor family of 6 siblings living a few miles away from the capital city of Uganda-Kampala in a small village Rubaga. The grandson to the great Masoolita Paul, Kahimbara Ibrahim, Yosiya Kateeba and a son to Byaruhanga Charles and Aidah Byaruhanga, a Murungu Mutooro born in vain from home in the dark with the help of a local midwife from the neighborhood bungalow house . Raised and groomed by a number of amazing hands, (Nabana isaack founder Ramon Film productions Nateete-Uganda, Mr. Ssentuuya Godfrey, Pr. James Kato founder Jesus Worship Center, Atuhaire Gavin and Mwesiga Alex founders Kyuka youth outreach, Ssendege Paius-DJ and Hamfrey Nabimanya founder reach a hand Uganda). Grew up in different evironments, sarrounded with different atmospheres through which he was inspired to try out a lot of things due to the desires he had in his mind. Watching action movies in slum cinema halls, riding wooden bicycles, making handmade toy cars in wires and recycled wastes, climbing trees and summer saulting in wood saw dust. These, were preparing him for a great journey of his life.
Schooled from local government primary schools and later finished his journey of education in high school level 6.Unfortunately he lacked enough funds to contribute to his higher institutions/ universities. He chose to use his God given special ability of drawing and sketching to at least find means of earning a living and as well giving support to his family.
As it is said “if you want to take the island, you burn the boats”, he literally had art as the only tool of surviving in life. Through his entire life he has been admiring and aspiring of doing great art pieces and projects with the inspirations drawn from the legendary artists he could bench mark with i.e. Leonardo Davinchi , Felix Lubega, and Taaga.
Through daily inspirations,a self taught artist himself Kateeba Joel was made. Facing criticms and challenges from art industry, he instead ignored and focused on the big fish.
In the year 2019, traveled to Guajarat State –INDIA as a one of the chosen artists to represent Africa and its culture in the Mahatma Gandhi Art camp- saputara hotel and some of his pieces featured in the Global art festival -same state. In the same year partnered with ARTOLUTION International organization based in USA basically to extend love through art in refugee camps and coming up with murals for public transformation of lives in Northern Uganda and west Nile region. He taught and skilled teaching artists in different parts of the nation mostly Yumbe district and Arua. Using his creative mind, he started up an art business KateebAfro Paints Art generated from his sur name Kateeba and the fact that he is an African. Came up with an art platform (MUNZE) “Meaning within me” for artists to exhibit their works, sell, exchange ideas and showcase their own created skills. This later advanced in to a company limited by shares with an aim of seeing creative communities able to set up sustainable income sources using their strength of art.
In the year 2019, represented his area of expertise in the Artizen international ambassadors conference that took place at UNCC (Uganda National Cultural Center)-Kampala.
In the year 2020, traveled to Tanzania and Zanzibar through an affiliation with the TAI ( Teaching Artist Institute) based in the USA and TAI TOURS as a curator and visual artist representing Uganda at the Tasuba school of arts Bagamoyo memorial place historically well known for slavery in early ages . Traveled to Kenya –Shianda town to share his art skills with the community duelers through an affiliation with Grow to Biuld Uganda organization lead by Sisa Mc wasswa based in Uganda –Kawempe Nkere.
In the 2021, he launched a book he wrote for a full year entitled “ART A SOLUTION”, In this book, his aim was to be a narrative that art can be the only solution to several questions of mankind. He discovered that humans go through a lot of emotional, spiritual and mental challenges that can be zeroed down with art as the solution. He went further to make a short documentation of some artists that have different art spaces, techniques and identities.
In the year 2021, he worked on one of his biggest art project entitled “WE ARE GOING TO MARS” doing prop designing and recycling of materials using his art strengths. In this project he worked alongside the official director of the whole production –Sylar Robert Ssempijja and Teflon films celebrating the African hero Edward Festus Mukuka Nkoloso of the Zambia National Academy of science Space and Research Philosophy (1960).
Art to him is like another way of living and a universal language to communicate to all creations in the universe.
In the year 1992, Feb, 22nd, a visual artist and creative being was born in a small poor family of 6 siblings living a few miles away from the capital city of Uganda-Kampala in a small village Rubaga. The grandson to the great Masoolita Paul, Kahimbara Ibrahim, Yosiya Kateeba and a son to Byaruhanga Charles and Aidah Byaruhanga, a Murungu Mutooro born in vain from home in the dark with the help of a local midwife from the neighborhood bungalow house . Raised and groomed by a number of amazing hands, (Nabana isaack founder Ramon Film productions Nateete-Uganda, Mr. Ssentuuya Godfrey, Pr. James Kato founder Jesus Worship Center, Atuhaire Gavin and Mwesiga Alex founders Kyuka youth outreach, Ssendege Paius-DJ and Hamfrey Nabimanya founder reach a hand Uganda). Grew up in different evironments, sarrounded with different atmospheres through which he was inspired to try out a lot of things due to the desires he had in his mind. Watching action movies in slum cinema halls, riding wooden bicycles, making handmade toy cars in wires and recycled wastes, climbing trees and summer saulting in wood saw dust. These, were preparing him for a great journey of his life.
Schooled from local government primary schools and later finished his journey of education in high school level 6.Unfortunately he lacked enough funds to contribute to his higher institutions/ universities. He chose to use his God given special ability of drawing and sketching to at least find means of earning a living and as well giving support to his family.
As it is said “if you want to take the island, you burn the boats”, he literally had art as the only tool of surviving in life. Through his entire life he has been admiring and aspiring of doing great art pieces and projects with the inspirations drawn from the legendary artists he could bench mark with i.e. Leonardo Davinchi , Felix Lubega, and Taaga.
Through daily inspirations,a self taught artist himself Kateeba Joel was made. Facing criticms and challenges from art industry, he instead ignored and focused on the big fish.
In the year 2019, traveled to Guajarat State –INDIA as a one of the chosen artists to represent Africa and its culture in the Mahatma Gandhi Art camp- saputara hotel and some of his pieces featured in the Global art festival -same state. In the same year partnered with ARTOLUTION International organization based in USA basically to extend love through art in refugee camps and coming up with murals for public transformation of lives in Northern Uganda and west Nile region. He taught and skilled teaching artists in different parts of the nation mostly Yumbe district and Arua. Using his creative mind, he started up an art business KateebAfro Paints Art generated from his sur name Kateeba and the fact that he is an African. Came up with an art platform (MUNZE) “Meaning within me” for artists to exhibit their works, sell, exchange ideas and showcase their own created skills. This later advanced in to a company limited by shares with an aim of seeing creative communities able to set up sustainable income sources using their strength of art.
In the year 2019, represented his area of expertise in the Artizen international ambassadors conference that took place at UNCC (Uganda National Cultural Center)-Kampala.
In the year 2020, traveled to Tanzania and Zanzibar through an affiliation with the TAI ( Teaching Artist Institute) based in the USA and TAI TOURS as a curator and visual artist representing Uganda at the Tasuba school of arts Bagamoyo memorial place historically well known for slavery in early ages . Traveled to Kenya –Shianda town to share his art skills with the community duelers through an affiliation with Grow to Biuld Uganda organization lead by Sisa Mc wasswa based in Uganda –Kawempe Nkere.
In the 2021, he launched a book he wrote for a full year entitled “ART A SOLUTION”, In this book, his aim was to be a narrative that art can be the only solution to several questions of mankind. He discovered that humans go through a lot of emotional, spiritual and mental challenges that can be zeroed down with art as the solution. He went further to make a short documentation of some artists that have different art spaces, techniques and identities.
In the year 2021, he worked on one of his biggest art project entitled “WE ARE GOING TO MARS” doing prop designing and recycling of materials using his art strengths. In this project he worked alongside the official director of the whole production –Sylar Robert Ssempijja and Teflon films celebrating the African hero Edward Festus Mukuka Nkoloso of the Zambia National Academy of science Space and Research Philosophy (1960).
Art to him is like another way of living and a universal language to communicate to all creations in the universe.
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Summary of Events
Professor Anita M Diop, the Executive Director of the African Roots and Heritage Foundation has invited Dignitaries from Togo and Benin to discuss the Theme: Repairing the Breach; Reconnecting with Our Ancestral Roots, during Junteenth celebrations.
…*Agoojié Festival, 20th Edition: Looking back at the flagship activities conducted for 3 days in Abomey, Bohicon and Za-kpota*
* Tradition in the era of modernity, to magnify the woman and reveal our traditional values to the whole world *
…Three Faces of Africa - Diaspora Reconnection Program
Professor Anita M. Diop, Executive Director of African Roots and Heritage Foundation is pleased to announce the 2025 ARHFST - African Roots and Heritage Foundation Study Tour, The Three Faces …
Mission: The mission of African Roots and Heritage Foundation is to provide a community outreach programming for preserving Language, Traditional and Cultural Practices through Public Programs through the Youth Cultural and Language Preservation …
*World Museum Day 18- 05- 2024
Are Museums necessary spaces in today’s world?
…African Roots & Heritage Foundation Annual Luncheon and Awards Ceremony was held on March 16, 2024 the ARHF Annual Luncheon and Awards Ceremony was held in Yaounde, Cameroon at the Headquarters in Omnisport.
…December 21, 2023 is the great day to celebrate our Purpose, Mission and Vision at the African Roots and Heritage Foundation. Annually, the African Roots and Heritage Foundation (ARHF) hosts' their Hallmark Public Program the Global Day of …
The African Roots and Heritage Foundation’s Executive Director, Professor Anita M. Diop was invited to the official launch on the Grassfields Research Institute as a guest speaker during the Pa’a Ngouo’ok Bapa 2023 Festival. A small delegation …
Professor Anita M Diop, the Executive Director of African Roots and Heritage Foundation has been elevated from the status of African Princess, a title given nearly 30 years ago for her passionate work to uplift, motivate and inspire all people of …
Professor Anita M. Diop the Executive Director of the African Roots & Heritage Foundation was at Quartier Mozart for the 1916 exhibition, emphasizing when the Germans left Cameroon, and the France came to settle. Anita Diop spent the day in …
The Executive Director, Anita M Diop met with Sa Majeste, Le Roi Nayang Youkam Inocent and Prince Joseph Youta Dada at the Royaume de Batoufam. They discussed the Diaspora discovering their roots and reclaiming their lost identity in Cameroon.
Aft…
In July 28-30, 2021 Professor Anita M. Diop was appointed the Ambassador of the Sixth Region to ACALAN AU for the Official launch of African Languages Week in Burkina Faso, West Africa.
The African Roots and Heritage Foundation lead by Professor Anita M. Diop and Executive Director actively participates in many Global Pan African Events as a leading expert in the field of Culture and Arts.
This year started with an annual Birthday …
July 31, 2021 the Executive Director was invited as the Closing Keynote speaker at the First International Conference on Cameroonian Studies and History at the University of Buea, Buea Cameroon, Central Africa. Professor presented a paper entitled, …
The African Roots and Heritage Foundation participated in the TAI Fourth Annual Artizen Conference in Tanzania at the University of Tasuba in Bagamoyo, From November 10 - 22, 2020 . The Executive Director, Professor Anita M. Diop was a key speaker …
The African Roots and Heritage Foundation participated in the Scott Arrington Family Black History Month Program at the Highland Park Art Center in Highland Park, MI on February 16, 2020.
…The African Roots and Heritage Foundation was asked to participate in an online Meeting Hosted by Arizona State University, on November 7, 2020.
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