By Munevimbo Happiness Majoni
On a cool evening marked by diplomacy, remembrance and cultural solidarity, the Southern
African Young Diplomats had the privilege of attending the screening of Kangamba, hosted
by the Embassies of Cuba and Angola in celebration of Africa Day. The evening was far
more than a film exhibition, it was an immersion into the living history of African liberation,
South-South cooperation and the enduring power of solidarity between nations.
The event brought together ambassadors, diplomats, government officials, and members of
the public in a powerful commemoration of Africa’s struggle against colonialism, apartheid
and foreign domination. Through speeches filled with emotion and historical reflection, one
message resonated throughout the evening the relationship between Cuba and Africa is not
transactional but deeply rooted in sacrifice, shared struggle and human dignity.
The Ambassador of Angola Her Excellency Ms Susellys Pérez Mesa delivered the most
moving speeches of the evening, describing Africa not as a distant continent but as a
fundamental part of Cuba’s own identity.She emphasised how African heritage continues to
shape Cuban music, spirituality, traditions and national consciousness. Her remarks
reminded the audience that the ties between Africa and Cuba were forged not through
economic interest, but through internationalism and a shared commitment to justice.

The screening of Kangamba itself symbolised this shared history. The film revisits the Battle
of Kangamba during the Angolan Civil War and highlights the courage and cooperation
between Cuban and Angolan forces. Through intense storytelling and emotional realism, the
film captures the human cost of liberation struggles while honouring those who fought for
sovereignty and self-determination.
The ambassador of Angola to Zimbabwe his Excellency Baltazar Diogo Cristóvão
passionately reflected on the famous Battle of Battle of Cuito Cuanavale, often regarded as a
turning point in Southern Africa’s liberation history. The battle represented not only military
resistance but also the contribution of Cuban internationalist forces on African soil. The
ambassador stressed that Africa’s liberation story would remain incomplete without
acknowledging Cuba’s sacrifice and solidarity. One particularly memorable statement
captured the essence of the evening, “African soil is going to keep their blood written

underneath.” It was a reminder that the relationship between Angola and Cuba was cemented
through shared sacrifice rather than strategic gain.
The exhibition was a profound lesson in the value of soft power, cultural diplomacy and
historical memory. The use of film and commemorative dialogue demonstrated
how nations preserve political friendships and strengthen international partnerships beyond
formal treaties and negotiations. It showed that diplomacy is not only conducted in
conference rooms, but also through culture, remembrance, and shared narratives.
The evening reminded us that diplomacy should not only advance national interests but also
uphold humanity  among nations. In an increasingly fragmented
world, the enduring friendship between Africa and Cuba stands as a powerful example of
international cooperation grounded in principle rather than convenience.