The North Wales Africa Society (NWAS) has received a £9,975 grant from the National Lottery’s Community Fund to continue with their work.

Arfon MS Siân Gwenllian visited their base, the Bangor African and Caribbean Centre, after they received the money.

The centre has been described as a hub to create community links and provide socialising opportunities for the African and Caribbean diaspora in Gwynedd and Anglesey.

The MS was welcomed to the centre on Bangor High Street, which opened in May to coincide with International Africa Day, by Dr. Salamatu J. Fada, the director of NWAS.

She thanked them for their ‘vital work’ in providing the Gwynedd and Môn African diaspora with a ‘lifeline’ during COVID-19 lockdowns.

She said: “I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to the Bangor African and Caribbean Centre, not only because I got to congratulate them on receiving a grant from the National Lottery’s Community Fund, but also to personally thank them for their vital work during the pandemic.

“They have been providing culturally appropriate food parcels for the African diaspora community during the pandemic.

“Their work was particularly vital at the start of the pandemic, when there was a shortage of certain foods due to high demand. The society forged links and reassured a lot of people during anxious times.

“I would like to congratulate them on receiving a grant to continue with their exceptional work, and for the pleasant and warm welcome I received.

“I had fascinating conversations, and I look forward to developing the relationship.”