Longford man organising 35th Famine Walk in Mayo
Longford's Joe Murray is organising the 35th annual Afri Famine Walk through the Doolough Valley in County Mayo on Saturday, May 20.
Carrickboy native Joe has been an organiser of every walk since the first one in 1988, even when the event was forced to go online during Covid-19.
Mr Murray commented, “It has been a great privilege to be involved in this unique event since its inception and I have met many extraordinary people who have taken part in the walk over the years, including Desmond Tutu, actor Gabriel Byrne, Christy Moore, Sharon Shannon, Lisa Lambe, Damian Dempsey, Declan O’Rourke to name but a few.”
Walkers will gather in Louisburgh from 11am for the opening ceremony before being ferried by bus to the starting point at Delphi Lodge.
Renowned singing star and Independent Senator Frances Black, will be among this year’s walk leaders.
A strong advocate for social justice, Senator Black is the first female Independent from the Seanad’s panel system in the history of the state.
She is the founder of the RISE Foundation and also the Chairperson and a founder member of the recently launched Irish Anti-Apartheid Campaign for Palestine.
Other walk leaders will include leading educationalist and activist Michael Doorly of Concern and Joseph Kabwe Kamfwa, an agriculturist from Lusaka in Zambia.
Music will be provided by the folk and traditional music legend, Karan Casey, whose recently released album is entitled ‘Nine Apples of Gold’.
Mr Murray explained, “The walk is about remembering those who suffered, died or were forced to emigrate during An Gorta Mór and those who suffer the same injustices today, anywhere in the world.”
He added, “This year’s walk is an expression of solidarity with all who suffer as a result of war and a call for every effort to be made to bring an end to war and pursue a path of peace.”
Joe says anyone is welcome to join them for this walk of solidarity and peace. “Even if you cannot complete the full 18 kilometres, a shuttle car can pick you up along the way.”
For further information on the 35th annual Afri Famine Walk contact Joe Murray 086 3946893.