Black students join campaign to save Africa Centre

The NUS Black Students’ Campaign has joined with those fighting to retain the historical Africa Centre, in Kings Street, Covent Garden, London.

The Africa Centre has been thought of as the head quarters of the African Diaspora in Britain for over 50 years. It has catered to the needs, development, social welfare and education of those wishing to learn more about and enjoy all aspects Africa.

Unfortunately over the past seven years little care has taken to look after the building which is in need of many repairs. Instead talks have been conducted with developers wanting to purchase the historical site to aid fashion retail in the area.

On Thursday 02 June 11, a group of young people including members of the national Black Students Committee, took to the streets demanding that these plans be reconsidered, as the centre plays an important role in Black British society . Despite the protest being shunned by some members of the Africa Centre Trustee Board there was great support from passers bys and tourists in the Covent Garden Market area.

Joshi Sachdeo, NUS National Executive Council Member for Black Students said:

"I commend all those who joined us outside in the fight to save the Africa Centre. I would call on those Trustees of Africa Centre that refuse to take a stand, to make their meetings public and to listen to the protesters calls not to sell the centre. The last thing London needs is another overpriced fashion store, which will probably make it’s profit from undercutting Black people all across the world. The closure of the centre will however deprive young people of African heritage and in fact all Londoners of this most valuable centre of African culture."

The 'Save the Africa Center' campaign are hoping to overturn this decision and Black Students are asking that as many people as possible join the fight to keep the centre open.

To sign the petition to save the centre click here.