The flavours of Africa are set to be celebrated with an evening that shines a light on the rich, vibrant, and powerful food heritage and culture of the African diaspora.

EARTH RISING is IMMA’s flagship festival focused on the Earth crisis. Over three days, the festival will celebrate art and culture as catalysts for environmental change and action. The event features a diverse lineup of free exhibitions, workshops, talks, performances, and more.

For the second year running, IMMA has devoted part of its Earth Rising programme to food, exploring our relationship with it and how it can empower us all. Jennie Moran of Luncheonette is at the helm, curating a spectacular lineup that delves into the inspiring properties of food. This year’s theme, “The Poetry of Our Survival,” poses the question of how food can be a vehicle for care—both for each other and for the Earth.

As part of the Friday programme, coinciding with Culture Night on the 20th, there will be an evening filled with celebration, conversation, and culinary delights as EARTH RISING 2024 showcases a Taste of the African Diaspora

A Taste of the African Diaspora 

The spotlight will be on the cuisine of the African diaspora as EARTH RISING explores how food can serve as a powerful tool to encourage care for the Earth and its communities. On the night, you can expect engaging discussions with some of Ireland’s leaders in African food and drink, including Mama Shee, Habesha Ethiopian Restaurant, and Hi Spirits Wine Club. Victory Nwabu-Ekeoma of Bia! Zine will guide us through the diverse food and drink customs of Africa, and the connections and conviviality they foster. 

Mama Shee 

Edizemi Onilenla and the team at Mama Shee have been serving up the flavours of Nigeria since 2019. Edizemi noticed there was little representation of African flavours on the shelves of Irish supermarkets. This meant not only were the members of the African community deprived of the tastes of home, but Irish palates were also missing out on the truly unique and tantalising flavours of quintessential dishes like jollof rice, plantain, and suya. Thankfully, she set out to rectify this. Having lived in Ireland for nearly two decades, she knew exactly how to blend the signatures of Nigerian cuisine with Irish cooking styles. The result is that everything in Mama Shee’s range is utterly unique and perfectly crafted. 

Habesha Ethiopian Restaurant 

Located in Belfast, Habesha Ethiopian Restaurant offers an authentic taste of East Africa, specifically Eritrea and Ethiopia. Anyone who has had the pleasure of trying the cuisines of these countries will know it’s a flavour experience like no other – rich, bold, and incredibly comforting. It provides a clear window into not just the flavours of East African cuisine, but also the traditions and customs that accompany it. The food is served sharing-style in a communal setting, where diners tear off pieces of injera bread to scoop up flavourful stews, vegetables, and sauces. It’s a beautiful representation of the spirit of unity and community that is a common thread in the food customs of African countries. A sense of leisure and an unparalleled spirit of hospitality permeate the dining experience.

Hi Spirits Wine Club

Hi Spirits Wine Club is an amazing initiative that goes beyond just celebrating fine wine and spirits – it’s a community. Their dynamic lineup of experiences truly celebrates diversity, heritage, and joy. The team meticulously curates bespoke events that resonate with a passion for creativity, from fashion to art. And they just keep growing. Earlier this year, they launched Zorelle Gin, Ireland’s pioneering Pan-African-inspired spirit. It beautifully blends the zest of zobo and sorrel to create a delightful spirit that unites the traditions and craftsmanship of both Ireland and Africa.

The rest of the weekend also promises to be a feast of fascinating food-related events that’ll leave you buzzing with inspiration. On Saturday keynote speaker Colin Sage will take to the stage to dive into the idea of Food Citizenship—i.e, food policy that’s good for people and the planet. There’s also a panel discussion on Food and Empathy featuring chefs Joshna Maharaj, Conor Spacey, and Niamh Condon, who are all using food as a vessel for kindness in diverse ways.

Ahmad Salah from Bethlehem Palestinian Restaurant and Aoife Carrigy will delve into the connections formed between the Dublin-based Palestinian restaurant and its customers, showing how dining can be a political and emotional act and a symbol of solidarity and empathy.

Sunday begins with workshops on natural dyes and saving garlic with Louth Urban Food Sanctuary while the programme wraps up with a conversation on Extreme Hospitality which offers a chance to reflect on the radical act of welcoming strangers and sharing food. Dublin Food Not Bombs will discuss how food can be a form of resistance against violence and marginalisation, while the Muslim Sisters of Éire will share their experiences of giving back to the community.

EARTH RISING takes place on the grounds of the Royal Hospital from September 20 to 22. Download the Earth Rising App for IOS or Android now to discover the full programme of events.