Adelaide, South Australia – The Igbo Community of South Australia (ICSA) is proud to announce the upcoming 2025 New Yam Festival (Iri Ji/Iwa Ji) a vibrant cultural celebration set to take place on Sunday, 5th October 2025, at the Goodwood Community Centre Hall in Adelaide.
This year’s festival marks a historic milestone as the first to be hosted under the leadership of Mr. Joseph Amaefuna, the newly elected President of ICSA. The community promises an unforgettable cultural experience that will honour tradition, celebrate diversity, and foster unity among South Australia’s multicultural communities.
In a statement shared with NN News Media via email, Mr. Nnaemeka Umenzeakor, Public Relations Officer of ICSA, described the event as more than just a ceremony:
“The New Yam Festival is a living testament of heritage a cultural handshake of unity, and a thanksgiving celebration of life and abundance. It is an opportunity to reaffirm our Igbo values while building stronger connections with the diverse communities that make South Australia unique.”
The Iwa Ji/Iri Ji Festival, which translates to “Yam Harvest,” is one of the oldest and most symbolic traditions of the Igbo people, representing thanksgiving, renewal, abundance, and hope. At its heart is the ritual cutting and eating of the new yam, a sacred act symbolizing gratitude for a successful harvest and the promise of future prosperity.
In the lead-up to the festival, the ICSA has engaged in meaningful community outreach, including a landmark visit to the South Australian Caribbean Community, solidifying new partnerships that will be unveiled during the celebration.
The festival is expected to attract a distinguished lineup of guests, including:
- Hon. Zoe Bettison MP, Minister for Multicultural Affairs
- Mr. Shaquille Hibbert, President, South Australian Caribbean Community
- Leaders from the Nigerian Association of South Australia and African Communities Council of South Australia
- Other prominent multicultural and community figures
The day’s program will feature:
- The traditional Iri Ji ceremony led by Igbo elders and titled leaders
- Cultural performances such as the iconic Igbo War Dance
- Arts and crafts exhibitions showcasing Igbo creativity
- Recognition of past ICSA presidents
- Youth and children’s Igbo language presentations
- Traditional wrestling displays
- Authentic Igbo cuisine, followed by music and dance to conclude the festivities
The community invites members, friends, and well-wishers to support this year’s celebration by paying annual dues and securing tickets online at orie.market/events/iri-ji-new-yam-festival-op1qC
The Igbo Community of South Australia warmly extends an open invitation to all South Australians regardless of background to join in this festival of culture, thanksgiving, and unity.
Event Details:
📅 Date: Sunday, 5th October 2025
📍 Venue: Goodwood Community Centre Hall, Adelaide, South Australia
🕓 Time: From 4:00 PM
For media inquiries, please contact:
📧 enquire.icsa@gmail.com
