Dr Alistair Mokoena, country director for Google South Africa.

Ahead of Africa Day next week, Google is unveiling a range of programmes and activities to celebrate Africa's diverse cultural heritage.

Africa Day is recognised annually on May 25, as the continent marks the founding of the African Union and celebrates the continent's quest for unity.

To provide an opportunity to the rest of the world to experience and engage with the continent on the day, Google has lined up different programmes showcasing Africa’s mixed legacy.

Among the programmes is the addition of six new pocket galleries on Google’s Arts & Culture app, curated by its partners from Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa.

Pocket gallery is a feature on the Google Arts & Culture app that offers an immersive experience that goes beyond traditional exhibitions.

With the six pocket galleries, Google will be providing a 360-degree view of artworks and artefacts. It says, this is ‘effectively allowing people to step into the heart of Africa's cultural scene from wherever they are.’

Some of the partners include the Yemisi Shyllon Museum and Terra Kulture from Nigeria, the Mohamed Amin Foundation and National Museums of Kenya, and the University of Pretoria from South Africa.

According to Google, each partner will present unique exhibitions that celebrate their respective regions, providing a diverse exploration of ‘Africa's rich’ cultural heritage.

Alistair Mokoena, Google country director for South Africa, comments: "Africa Day is a celebration of progress, unity, and the vibrant cultures that define the continent. We are excited that we can amplify these stories and experiences on our platforms.

“From exploring our rich artistic heritage through Google Arts & Culture, to dancing along to the #CelebrateAfrica playlist on YouTube Music, and engaging with compelling narratives on YouTube, we are happy to share and celebrate Africa's culture with the world."

In previous years, YouTube Music has held the Africa Day Concert, showcasing current and up-and-coming African music talents.