DAR ES SALAAM, Feb. 18 -- On February 16, the Russian Centre for Science and Culture in Dar es Salaam transformed a corner of the city into a lively outpost of Slavic tradition, hosting a Festival of Russian Folk Traditions that was equal parts cultural exchange and cheerful defiance of the tropical sun.

Dar es Salaam does not often need encouragement to say goodbye to winter. But for an afternoon, guests gathered to experience how Russians bid farewell to the cold season and welcome spring with colour, ritual and, most importantly, pancakes.

The festival drew students, youth leaders and families curious to sample a slice of Russian heritage. They were not disappointed. From the outset, the air was thick with the aroma of freshly baked ...