The Fate of Pearl of Africa

Pearl of Africa was a historical marker... through which Brother Ahmed Tahir touched the lives of countless people over the years. After all it had been through we never thought it would close. In the African-centered heyday of the early 90's we were replete with conscious cultural stores. There was Stilt Walkers, Sandaga's, Haneef's and of course Pearl of Africa I and II. When all the others moved away or simply closed down, one thing was constant... The Pearl of Africa. Now, the Pearl undergoes it's own transition and we await another era of its influence.

After Brother Ahmed's passing his wife Nandi shared this statement:

"Greetings all, after almost 20 years of business on South Street, the time has come to say goodbye. As of Sunday June 17th Pearl of Africa on South St. will close. I will announce the new location of Pearl of Africa International very soon ...as we move towards our long held dream of manufacturing and producing products that reflect the beauty and history of who we are as a people.

Thanks to all who attended the Celebration of Life yesterday for Brother Ahmed, It was truly a moving experience. Special thanks to Taj El and Obawajumi Owolafia Olayinka for putting the program together, Wanda Dickerson & Robert Dickerson ...and Universal African Dance and Drum Ensemble, your presence really raised the energy and allowed us to send our brother home the way he would have intended, Asante Sana! Special thanks to Urban Shaman."