One of the United Kingdom’s longest-running national commemorations of African remembrance returns this summer as the 31st African Remembrance Day (ARD) takes place at the Museum of London Docklands on Saturday 1st August 2026.
Held annually, African Remembrance Day provides an opportunity to remember the millions of African men, women and children who lost their lives through enslavement, while celebrating the resilience, dignity and achievements of Africa and its global diaspora. The event has become an important date in the calendar for those committed to preserving the memory of the past while looking towards a future built on justice, unity and renewal.
This year’s theme, “Menelik, Taytu, Adwa & the Defence of African Sovereignty,” focuses on one of the defining moments in African history – the Battle of Adwa in 1896.
At Adwa, Emperor Menelik II and Empress Taytu Betul led Ethiopian forces to a historic victory over an invading Italian army, ensuring Ethiopia remained independent during the height of European colonial expansion. The victory became a symbol of African resistance and self-determination, inspiring anti-colonial movements and Pan-African leaders throughout the twentieth century.
The organisers believe the story of Adwa remains highly relevant today as conversations continue around African sovereignty, international cooperation and the continent’s role in shaping its own future.
The afternoon will feature a keynote address by His Excellency Ambassador Lalisa Birhanu, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia to the United Kingdom. He will be joined by Dr Eyob Balcha Gebremariam of King’s College London, who will explore the global significance of Adwa, Ethiopia’s modernisation following the battle, including the abolition of slavery, and Ethiopia’s continuing contribution to Pan-Africanism, diplomacy and African development.
One of the most moving moments of the day will take place at 3:00pm, when participants join the annual Three Minutes of Silence. The act of remembrance observes one minute for the victims of enslavement in the Americas, one minute for those in Africa and one minute for those in Asia, creating a powerful moment of collective reflection shared by members of the global African family.
African Remembrance Day has grown steadily since its beginnings and is now recognised as one of Britain’s most significant annual commemorations dedicated to African history and remembrance. Each year it brings together historians, diplomats, academics, community leaders, faith groups, students and members of the public to reflect on the past while exploring issues including reparatory justice, education, heritage and the continuing influence of Pan-African thought.
Held at the Museum of London Docklands, itself located within London’s historic docklands where many aspects of Britain’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade unfolded, the event provides a meaningful setting for remembrance, education and dialogue.
Everyone is welcome to attend this free public event, whether they have a long-standing interest in African history, slavery and its legacies, Pan-Africanism or simply wish to learn more about one of the most important commemorative events in the UK.
Event Details
African Remembrance Day 2026
Saturday 1st August 2026
Museum of London Docklands
West India Quay
London
E14 4AL
1:00pm – 4:00pm
Register:
https://www.londonmuseum.org.uk/whats-on/african-remembrance-day-2026/