An estimated 3,500 people from at least 19 African countries now call the Richmond area home. They want to raise awareness of the cultural richness they are adding to the community.

That’s why the African Community Network, an umbrella group that includes representatives of the emigrants of the various countries who came to the United States in recent years, is throwing a community party called AFROFEST 2018.

The free event will take place noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 11, at the city’s Pine Camp Cultural Arts and Community Center, 4901 Old Brook Road in North Side.

“We’ll be offering music, a fashion show, food and soccer games to showcase who we are,” said Djibril Niang, a co-founder and president of ACN.

Featured performers will include Ghanaian master drummer Okyerema Asante and the world music group Hotel X, said Mr. Niang, who arrived 18 years ago from Senegal.

The event also will feature an array of clothing styles from the various African nations that the network represents, as well as from the Caribbean nation of Haiti, he said.

During the event, soccer teams representing Ghana and Cameroon will vie for the AFROFEST 2018 title, he said.

Health screenings and competitions for children also will be part of the event, he said.

“We are hoping for a big turnout,” Mr. Niang said.

Details: African Community Network, (804) 389-4488 or (804) 852-2796 or info@acn-va.org.