UACO was founded in 2000 by Professor Salewa Olafioye, a scholar and former United Nations diplomat known to many as Dr. Ola, with a group of co-founders who wanted one platform to unite Africans in the diaspora. Over the years that has meant medical outreach, English classes, housing help for newcomers, afterschool programs, African language classes, and the biggest African gathering in Detroit every Fourth of July.
In 2026 we held the 23rd, at Jefferson Field on Joy Road, with an estimated 5,000 to 7,000 people. Live music, cultural performances, youth and talent showcases, soccer, play stations for the kids, and free food.
Read the 2026 reportFor newcomers and families, students and elders. Whatever you need, the community is here.