National Geographic Music (National Geographic)

Rita Marley, widow of reggae legend Bob Marley, announced at a press conference in Johannesburg, South Africa earlier this week that the Bob & Rita Marley Foundation will bring "Africa Unite 2007" to South Africa next February. The now-annual Africa Unite concerts and events, previously staged in Ethiopia in 2005, and in Ghana in 2006, create worldwide awareness for vital issues affecting Africa. Through a series of benefit concerts, symposia, fund raisers and other events, Africa Unite 2007 will encourage peace, education and empowerment for youth in Africa.

"Our family is committed to keeping the legacy and teachings of Bob alive to spread 'One Love' worldwide through the power of music, which is a gift from God," said Marley. "I have so much hope for Africa. It is our goal to bring life to the words of 'Africa Unite' and aid where help is needed, while creating opportunities and sustainable change for youth in Africa and worldwide."

In 2007, Africa Unite will join forces with the Emerging Leadership Programme, initiated by the Desmond Tutu Peace Centre, which grooms young leaders for reconciliation, transformation and peace in global communities. Africa Unite 2007 will also support the Shanduka Foundation's Adopt-a-School Programme which is committed to providing quality education to all African children, and the Ubuntu Institute that is dedicated to the development of young social entrepreneurs on the African continent. Each organization will contribute their combined resources to Africa Unite 2007 and share in the singular goal to unite Africa through peace, education and empowerment for all people.

Africa Unite 2007 events will commence on the anniversary of Bob Marley's birthday, February 6th, and continue throughout Black History Month to include events in Durban and Johannesburg, throughout the month of February. For more information on special guests, ticket distribution and events consult the Africa Unite 2007 web site.