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Vol 3 Issue 11
Ghyslaine Tchouaga(Miss Cameroon)
Crowned Miss Africa USA 2011
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Afrikan Post
November 2011
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USCIS Redesigns Employment Authorization Document and Certificate of Citizenship to Enhance Security and Combat Fraud
From the Editor
O u r G r ea tes t G lor y is n o t in n ever f a llin g b u t in r is in g ever y time we f a ll . We a r e co mmittted to br in g th e co mmu n ity th e bes t in N ews f r om Af r ica a n d th e D ia s po r a . Yo u ma y als o vis it ou r web s ite www.a f r ika n pos t.com f or da ily n ews u p da tes f o r Af r ica. D is cla imer : Th e op in ion s ex pr es s ed in ar ticles an d s tor ies in th is N ews paper ar e th os e o f th e a u th or s a n d d o n ot n eces s ar ily r ef lect th e views o f Af r ik an Pos t . All commen ts a n d s u g ges tion s ar e welco me.
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D E PA R T M E N T S Vol. 3 Issue 11
CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT
Actress Nikki Samonas Sponsors 10,000 Children Pg. 18
RELIGION
African Marriages in USA Survey & Discussion Pg. 35
HEALTH Fibroid Pg. 13
HER PAGE
The Absurdity of You Pg. 20
receives them will not change. USCIS will replace EADs already in circulation as individuals apply for WASHINGTON - U.S. Citizenship and Immigration their renewal or replacement. All previously issued Services (USCIS) Director Alejandro Mayorkas today EADs remain valid until the expiration date printed on announced the launch of an enhanced Employment the card. Previously issued Certificates of Citizenship Authorization Document (EAD) and a redesigned remain valid indefinitely. Certificate of Citizenship (Form N-560) with new features to strengthen security and deter fraud. These improvements demonstrate USCIS’s ongoing As part of USCIS’s ongoing efforts to enhance the integrity of the immigration system, the state-of-theart technology incorporated into the new documents will deter counterfeiting, obstruct tampering, and facilitate quick and accurate authentication. USCIS began issuing the new EADs today and will begin using the redesigned certificates on Oct. 30. The agency anticipates that more than 1 million people will receive the new documents over the next year. "These enhanced documents are more secure than ever," said Director Mayorkas. "They advance our efforts to safeguard against fraud and protect the integrity of the immigration system."
The new features of the EAD will better equip workers, employers and law enforcement officials to recognize the card as definitive proof of authorization to work in the United States.
efforts to produce more secure documentation. In 2010, USCIS issued the new Permanent Resident Card, which added security features to the physical card and integrated technology improvements in the card production process. Additionally, USCIS launched the redesigned Certificate of Naturalization (Form N-550) featuring the naturalization candidate’s digitized photo and signature embedded into the document. USCIS will continue to enhance document security features as technology improves. For more information on USCIS and its programs, please visit www.uscis.gov or follow us on Twitter (@uscisExit Disclaimer), YouTube (/uscisExit Disclaimer) and the USCIS blog The Beacon.
USCIS worked closely with the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Forensic Document Laboratory to incorporate technology and tactile features in order to deter fraud and facilitate card authentication. Additionally, USCIS employs a new and more secure printing process for its redesigned Certificate of Citizenship that renders the certificate more tamperproof. Although the look and feel of the documents is new, the manner in which an applicant applies for and
Divine Word Ministry
SPORTS
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Call 703 910 6642 for more Information
2012 Africa Cup of Nations Pg. 39
One On One with Apostle Kofi Adonteng Boateng
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Afrikan Post Call : 703-725-6968 Email : editor@afrikanpost.com
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The 1st Nollywood & African Film Critics' Awards- North Carolina USA
Some of the Award Recipients
John Dumelo, Michael Majid, and Koby Maxwell with their Awards
Juliet Ibrahim
Best film in Diaspora PAPARAZI Koby Maxwell & Clarice Kulah
Best Drama in Diaspora MIND GAME
Best Actor in leading role Diaspora Film EJIKE OKOYE Far From Home
Best Actress in Leading role Diaspora Film SYR LAW PAPARAZZI
Best Director in Diaspora Film BAYO AKINFEMI PAPARAZZI
Best Actor in Supporting role Diaspora Film CHET ANIEKWE Paparazzi
Jennifer Eniogu
Joy Orie (JJ Bunny)
Best Actress in leading role NSE IKPE ETIM
Best Film SOMEWHERE IN AFRICA Kwame Boadu & Frank Rajah Arase
Best Comedy WHY MARRY? Frank Rajah Arase & John A. Dada
Best Traditional Film INALE
Best Drama A PRIVATE STORM
Best Action Film JOZI KINGS
Best Screenplay -SOMEWHERE IN AFRICA
Vida Darko
Best Visual Effects GRAVE YARD Joseph K. Serebour
Best Makeup LAND OF SHADOW
Best Editing INALE
Best Actress in Supporting role Diaspora Film VEEDA DARKO Ladies in the City
Best Cinematography INALE
Best Actor in leading role MAJID MICHEL
Best Actor in Supporting role JOHN DUMELO
Best Actress in Supporting role SUSAN PETERS
Best Cinematographer In Diaspora Tim Wilson
BEST COSTUME SOMEWHERE IN AFRICA
Best Director in a Film SOMEWHERE IN AFRICA FRANK RAJAH ARASE Peoples Choice Awards Best Actor BEST DAVIS Best Actress EVA BANKS
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One on one with Apostle Dr. Kofi Adonteng Boateng
N o v e m b e r 2 0 1 1 Page 6
and started meetings on Saturdays. With the enthusiasm we registered the ministry in Worcester, Massachusetts. We were kicked out of our place of worship and had to look for another place. We eventually found a place where we could worship on Sunday afternoons so a church was born out of that”.
One on One with Apostle Dr. Kofi Adonteng Boateng Apostle Dr. Kofi Adonteng Boateng, a man of God who in recent times has carved a niche for himself as the charismatic crowd puller, miracle worker, and philanthropist, opened his doors to Afrikan Post for a one on one interview to talk about his personal life, share his passion for the work of God, and throw light on the activities of his thriving ministry, and the famous AMENOOOOOOOO. As I sat in the living room waiting, a very shy looking gentleman walked up to me and in a very calm demeanor introduced himself as Kofi Adonteng Boateng. I felt an air of calmness and inner peace in his composure. As he smiled at me and sat down he muttered the words, “Welcome to my humble abode, I am ready”. After a few formalities, I officially started the interview and began the process of discovering who he is as an individual and what his plans and vision are for Divine Word Ministry.
supplied the town with water and threw the salt into it. And he said, “This is what the Lord says: I have purified this water. It will no longer cause death or infertility”. And the water has remained pure ever since, just as Elisha said. It is biblical to ask someone to fast so as I am led by the spirit - I pray over salt for the people. Miracles are manifested when people follow Names are very important in life. Tell us about your name and prophetic directions. Jesus is the foundation of Divine Word the creation of the name “Divine Word Ministries”. How did Ministry”. you come up with that name? There are misconceptions in the community that you use non “My real name is John Adonteng Boateng, but being a FridayChristian-like powers to perform miracles. Can you please born I decided to use the name Kofi instead of John. When I was clarify those misconceptions: at Accra Academy my friends nicknamed me Maxi. At that time there was a Malta beverage drink called Maxi and that is where “Well you know and you hear the things that happen when I am they derived the name. When I came to Worcester, I worked at a ministering. Demonic spirits are cast out, people receive their radio station, WCUW, as a presenter. There were a lot of breakthrough and are delivered. If there is any power behind Caucasian listeners and I used the name Maxi when I was on-air, this I don’t think the devil would want to embarrass himself like which caught on very well with my listeners. I played Ghanaian that. Jesus is the foundation of my ministry. As a matter of fact music on air and also preached. My program was called “Divine it only takes God to perform the miracles that happen in our Word”. That is how the name “Divine Word” came about”. conventions. Promotion comes from God and it is through the name of God that miracles continue to manifest in people's lives. Did you receive any formal training in ministry? It is unfortunate that people attribute this to juju. Jesus was accused of using Beelzebub. When people look at your past, “I enrolled in an online bible school and I was ordained a year God looks at your future and your availability to be used by after. After my ordination, I took up a secular job to enable me to Him. The secret to these miracles is in the name of God. We pay the rent of the Church, but in no time I was laid off. I gave up exercise our faith to make things happen. Jesus was charismatic my place of residence and slept at the Church. I slept on the bare because he did things out of the ordinary. Anything that is not floor for almost a year. The Church was in arrears of rent to the ordinary to people is condemned. People pray by faith and tune of $16,000. We continued to run the prayer line until I got things happen”. an invitation from Pastor Foster Sekyere, a New York based pastor, to preach in his church. That was the first time I was going to How do you deal with negative publicity? “In ministry, there is a tendency of being attacked. All men of God go through this. I, along with the ministry, have been attacked by outsiders and even people who were a part of the ministry. For me, I don’t hold any grudges against the people behind the attacks. Admittedly, it is quite sad, disturbing, and distracting to hear and read untrue stories about yourself here and there, but the only way to move on is to put it behind you, therefore I put it behind me”.
Can you tell me a little bit about yourself?
“I am a native of Bonwire –Barmang in the Ashanti region of Ghana but I was born and bred in Accra, the capital of Ghana, where my father was an Assemblies of God Pastor. During my childhood years, anytime I spoke, people discerned the calling of God on me and my mother always wished for me to become a minister of God. My three sisters and I lived in our father’s house and I completed high school at Accra Academy. While in Ghana, I was the General Manager of Mercury FM in Kumasi and worked with some of the notable presenters in Ghana like Abeeku Aggrey, prior to coming to the United States”.
Apostle, so were you mentored by your father to walk in his stead as a pastor just as your mother wished?
“No, I did not want to be a pastor, far from that”.
How then did you become a Pastor, then Prophet and now Apostle?
“When God calls you, you cannot run away from him. I came to the United States from Ghana about 8 years ago and the turning point of my life came about 4 years ago when I began to face some challenges in my life. I started praying with a family on a 3-way telephone conference call and with time I got a free conference call service with about 4 people. As the number increased to 15 we decided to go from house to house and share the word of God. We looked for a place of worship
Passi Pass the m the h They orph Afric Agye
Ordination as a Pastor in Worcester
minister outside my newly formed Church. The meeting created a lot of impact and many ministers started extending invitations to me. The unction of God was on me from the beginning so I started operating in the prophetic realm. God had lifted me up from the floor to the pulpit. The prayer line grew in numbers by the day through personal testimonies and the Lord continued to magnify himself”.
Why did you move the ministry to Virginia?
“The ministry is still in Worcester but I was looking for good grounds to grow and I saw Virginia as a place where I could find that growth and the Lord has really magnified himself since the ministry has tripled since I came here”.
When one goes on the prayer line, you can often be heard encouraging people to use salt and honey. What is the significance of using salt and honey?
On a more personal note, are you or have you ever been married? “ I was married before but unfortunately my marriage broke up before I became a pastor . Things did not work out as I expected. I am being cautious this time and seeking the face of God before I get into marriage again”. Who are your role models?
“I look up to Pastor Benny Hinn as a role model and mentor. I have spoken with him over the phone on a number of occasions and I hope to one day meet him. Benny Hinn inspires me in my daily activities”.
How is the ministry thriving?
“The ministry has tripled in numbers since I came to Virginia and we have started a new Church in Maryland and it is doing very well”. What is the aspect of your ministry that makes it unique?
“The centerpiece of my ministry is prayer. As you know, prayer is the practice of the presence of God. Pride is abandoned, hope is lifted, and supplication is made. Through it we admit our “There are biblical directions which started at the time of need, of adopting humility, and claiming dependence upon God. Abraham. He was asked to go and sacrifice his only son; Moses Through prayers you can touch the heart of the Father through was given biblical directions and he restored the bitterness in the the Son of God, Jesus our Lord. As much as we pray and share water when he was leading the Israelites out of Egypt through the the unadulterated word of God, the presence of God is manifestWilderness; Elisha said, “Bring me a new bowl with salt in it.” So ed. As the Bible says. “You will know them by their fruits.” For they brought it to him. Then he went out to the spring that Continued on Page 16
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Passion For An African Child (PAC)Charity Ball
November
2011
Passion for an African Child (P.A.C) is an organization that was founded for one purpose: to improve the lives of our impoverished African brothers and sisters. The focus of PAC is on the minority child, otherwise known as the female child. The goal of Passion for an African Child is to improve the quality of life for female children in Africa and remove them from the horrors they may face including child trafficking, molestation, female circumcision, arranged marriages and many other issues female African children are battling every day. Theywant to help reduce poverty in Africa by promoting education amongst children, providing much needy medical supplies to medical centers in rural areas, and providing shelter for orphans. PAC held their 1st Annual Charity Benefit at the Embassy of Ghana in Washington, D.C. on Saturday, November 5, 2011 to raise funds to support impoverished children in Africa. The Special guests included Mrs. Matilda Osei Agyeman, the head of Chancery at the Ghana Embassy who stood in for the Ambassador His Excellency Mr. Daniel Ohene Agyekum, Ms Fifi Soumah-Miss Africa USA 2010 with performances by Fif Wilson and many more. There were “Gold carpet” appearances, interviews, and a fashion show.
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Mabel Mboma a Cameronian Singer lighting up the event with a speacial song in french
Fif Wilson entertaining the crowd
Some of the invited guests
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US WELCOMES LIBERIA ELECTION VIOLENCE PROBE
imize the election. The United States urged all political parties to respect the election results and resolve their differences peacefully.
Ewe To Be Studied At Ohio University November
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Nobel laureate Sirleaf won the November 8 presidential run-off against Opposition candidate Winston Tubman, who boycotted the election alleging fraudulence.
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
Terming the historic elections as "important milestones on Liberia's path toward democratic reconciliation," Clinton pledged that the United States will continue to work with Sirleaf and all elected officials to advance democracy, and promote peace and prosperity.
The United States commended the National Elections Commission for conducting free, fair, and transparent elections. Washington applauded the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the African Union and others for sending observers to monitor In a message congratulating the Liberian peo- the elections, as well as the UN Mission in ple for exercising their right to vote, and Liberia for promoting security during the President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf on her reelectoral process. election, US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton expressed deep disappoint- Source: ment over the opposition Congress for http://www.rttnews.com/Content/Policy.as Democratic Change's decision to boycott the px?Id=1762501 presidential run-off in an attempt to delegit(RTTNews) - The United States has welcomed the creation of a Special Independent Commission of Inquiry to investigate the violence on the eve of Liberia's presidential and legislative elections.
Forbes African Rich List Topped by Nigerian Mogul A Nigerian construction mogul has topped a list of Africa's richest people.
The total wealth of the list is $64.9bn. By comparison, the wealthiest 40 people in Taiwan are worth $92.7bn. The average age of those on the African list which contains no women - is 61.
Mr Dangote and Mr Oppenheimer, of diamond miners De Beers, are two of 16 billionaires on the list.
De Beers recently agreed a $5.1bn deal to sell the Oppenheimer family's 40% stake to Anglo American. Egypt has the most billionaires, with seven coming from two families, the Sawiris and
The delegation was in Ghana to visit Ohio University students studying in there and also to explore possibilities to set up a satellite programme for child development using the arts. According to Professor MacDavis, his institute has developed a lot of programmes for children which lay emphasis on child education through the use Arts.
The Volta Regional Minister, Mr. Joseph Amenowode expressed satisfaction with the collaboration between the Volta Region and Ohio University. He said “child education is very important and I’m very happy that the Ohio University has come up with a programme to educate children using arts”
Mr. Amenowode described the visit as a “divine intervention” and said that he was looking forward to fruitful and mutually beneficial collaboration between Ohio University and the University of Health and Allied Sciences in the Volta Region which he said would take off soon.
Other members of the delegation included Professor Komla Amoaku of the Institute of Music He said the University has an open door policy to and Development, Mama Agblatsu and Togbe Adzimah of the Asogli Tradional Area and students all over the world who have a desire to Professor Yao Younge, an indigene of the region. study and urged a lot more students from Ghana to take part. He also announced their intention to set up an institute of Music and Development VIBEGHANA.COM studies in Ghana.
South Africa Will Rename Capital Pretoria in 2012
Aliko Dangote, with a stake in Dangote Cement and interests in flour milling and sugar refining, has a fortune of $10.1bn (£6.4bn).
Forbes magazine's inaugural list of the 40 richest people in Africa put South Africa's Nicky Oppenheimer at number two with $6.5bn.
The president of Ohio University, Professor Roderick MacDavis has announced that Ewe will be studied as a course in Ohio University in the United States of America (USA) from the 2011/2012 academic year. Professor MacDavis announced this when he led a delegation to pay a courtesy call on the Volta Regional Minister in his office in Ho.
Mansours, according to Forbes.
Forbes said it had reached the values using stock prices for publicly-traded companies and estimates of revenues or profits for the many privately-held businesses.
The magazine ignored dispersed family fortunes, such as the Chandaria family of Kenya.
Source:BBCNEWS
The official who oversees South Africa’s capital, Pretoria, says the city will have a new name by Speaking Monday, the mayor also vowed that major streets in Pretoria that are currently named after the end of next year. Afrikaners and apartheid-era officials will be renamed The mayor of Tshwane municipality, Kgosientso to honor anti-apartheid activists. Ramokgopa, says all of Pretoria will be renamed Chief Tshwane ruled the area before white settlers Tshwane by the end of 2012. arrived in the early 19th century. The capital is curThe ruling African National Congress party has rently named after Andries Pretorius – an Afrikaner who battled Zulu warriors and fought against colonial been working for years to rename the capital Tshwane, but the move has been strongly resis- British rule. ted, mainly by white South Africans. Tshwane municipality was set up in 2000 and includes 13 towns, including Pretoria, which remains the center Ramokgopa says the issue is currently before of government. the culture minister for approval, adding his municipality would be “resolute and stubborn” Source: VOA to ensure the capital is renamed.
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African
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Fibroids
H E A LT H
NEWS
Oral contraceptives and progestin-only pills can suppress excessive bleeding, and pain relievers such as ibuprofen may ease discomfort If the fibroid is large, your doctor may prescribe a hormone medication to shrink it and reduce bleeding. The problem with these medications is that the fibroid grows back once the drug is discon tinued. The drug can also lower bone density and, with extended use, can cause fnenopausal symp toms such as hot flashes and vaginal drynegs.
No one knows exactly what causes fibroids, but by age 40, somewhere between 40 and 70 percent of women will probably have them, notes Steven R. Goldstein, M.D., professor of obstetrics and gynecology at New York University in New York City.
Surgical or outpatient options
MYOMECTOMY In this procedure, the doctor removes the fibroids but leaves the uterus intact. Women who eventually plan to become pregnant may opt for a myomectomy. The proce dure may also be useful for women with multiple or large These noncancerous tumors can grow on the inside, out fibroids. How the treatment will be done side or within the wall of the uterus, or can be attached to depends on the size and number of the fibroids. it by a stemlike structure. Many women who have fibroids are not aware of them because the growths can ENDOMETRIAL ABLATION remain small and not cause any symptoms. However, in some women, fibroids that are large or numerous can This procedure destroys the lining of the uterus cause problems. When symptoms do occur, they often to halt or reduce heavy blood loss, a common include irregular bleeding, pelvic and lower back pain symptom of fibroids. A doctor can use a range and pres sure, difficulty urinating and an enlarged of methods, including radio waves, low-voltage abdomen. In some women, fibroids cause infertility and electricity, laser energy, freezing or a heated miscarriage, although many women with fibroids can loop. This outpatient surgery requires general conceive and carry a pregnancy to term. anesthesia, but most women recover within a day. After treatment, pregnancy is usually not Fortunately, women have several options for dealing with possible. fibroids. "Treatment depends on where the fibroids are located, the symptoms they cause and their size," says UTERINE ARTERY EMBOLIZATION Howard T. Sharp, M.D., associate professor and chief of Performed by interventional radiologists, this the general division of obstetrics and gynecology at the nonsurgical procedure preserves a woman's University of Utah School of Medicine. Treatment uterus and usually main tains her hormonal options include the following: cycles. A catheter is inserted into each of the two uterine arteries and small partides are Wait and see injected In the absence of any symptoms, the best treatment may be no treatment at all, especially near menopause, a time to cut off the blood flow to the fibroids, which when fibroids naturally shrink. Your doctor may simply causes them to shrink. Early results suggest that monitor the fibroids regularly to make sure they aren't embolization provides effective short-term growing. relief, but long-term results are undear. Because the safety for future pregnancies with emboliza Fibroids Q&A. tion isn't known, it is currently recommended only for women who have completed their famiHow are fibroids diagnosed? Your doctor may detect lies. fibroids during a routine pelvic exam. Further tests can provide more information: Ultrasonography uses sound EXABLATE 2000 waves to create a picture of the uterus. Hysteroscopy This device, approved by the PDA in October uses a thin telescope inserted into the vagina and cervix 2004, uses an ultrasound beam guided by a that permits the doctor to see some fibroids inside the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machine to uterine cavity, HSG (hysterosalpingography) is a special target and destroy fibroids. The technique may X-ray test to detect abnormal changes in the size and require as many. as 50 'pulses, with each one shape of the uterus and fallopian tubes. Laparoscopy uses lasting about 15 seconds, and the procedure can a slender device inserted through a small cut just below take up to three hours to complete. ExAblate is the navel that enables the doctor to see fibroids on the currently not available nationwide, and many outside of the uterus. doctors still consider it an experimental treatment. Can I still get pregnant after having a myomectomy or uterine artery embolization to remove fibroids? A woman HYSTERECTOMY can usually become pregnant after both procedures. But If other treatments fail and the pain and abnorthe safety of pregnancy after embolization needs more mal bleed ing associated with fibroids persist, a research. Although 100 women in one study conceived doctor may recom mend a hysterectomy, the after an embolization, some had problems. In a number surgical removal of the uterus. If the ovaries are of cases, the baby did not grow properly, or the fetus was also removed to reduce the risk of ovarian canabnormally positioned. cer when a hysterectomy is done, many women A myomectomy preserves a woman's ability to become enter early menopause after the procedure, pregnant, but delivery may involve a C-section since the which can cause bone loss, hot flashes and vagiuterine wall is often weakened. Sometimes a myomecto- nal dryness. my can cause scarring, which may lead to infertility.
Drug treatments
Culled from: www.womansday.com
Number of New HIV Infections Falling in Africa – UN November 2011
The United Nations says the number of new HIV infections in sub-Saharan Africa has fallen by more than 26 percent since 1997, but the region is still the world’s hardest-hit by the epidemic.
In a report released the U.N. AIDS organization said that although the rate has dropped, Sub-Saharan Africa still accounted for 70 percent of the world’s new infections last year.
The region is home to two-thirds of the world’s HIV-infected population, despite having 12 percent of the overall population. The report says South Africa has the world’s highest number of people living with HIV, an estimated 5.6 million.
The U.N. says the number of people dying from AIDS in Africa has steadily declined since 1998 because of greater access to free
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antiretroviral therapy.
The report credits the decline in new HIV infections to changes in sexual behavior, increased condom use and people waiting longer before becoming sexually active.
The U.N. says that worldwide new HIV infections have fallen by 21 percent since peaking in 1997, while deaths from AIDS have fallen by the same amount since hitting a high in 2005.
The report says there has been a surge in the number of people getting access to antiretroviral therapy in low- and middle-income countries since 2009, and that treatments are having a significant impact on slowing the rate of new infections.
Source :VOA
U.S. Launches An Africa Nursing Education Partnership Initiative
United States Addresses Human Resources for Health in Africa with Launch of the Nursing Education Partnership Initiative (NEPI)
On November 17, the United States formally announced the Nursing Education Partnership Initiative (NEPI) in Lilongwe, Malawi. The NEPI, established in 2010, was launched publically, culminating a three-day workshop on strategies to enhance the number and quality of nursing and midwifery professionals in areas of Africa where they are needed most.
The launch highlighted NEPI agreements the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) has made with Malawi, Zambia, Lesotho, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Representatives from Ministries of Health in these countries as well as leaders from nursing and midwifery schools, educators, professional associations, professional councils, and U.S. officials participated in the launch. Discussion focused on improving the education of nurses and midwives in order to increase the number of qualified health professionals capable of meeting the health care needs of today’s African communities and families.
NEPI was created in 2010 by the Office of the
U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator (OGAC) in the U.S. Department of State, along with a Medical Education Partnership Initiative intended to improve training for physicians. Through NEPI, administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), PEPFAR committed $33 million over five years for the five countries. This funding will strengthen the quality and capacity of nursing and midwifery education institutions, increase the number of highly skilled nurses and midwives, and support innovative nursing retention strategies in African countries.
In partnership with Ministries of Health and country stakeholders, PEPFAR supports NEPI through HRSA and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), as well as interagency PEPFAR country teams. The ICAP Nurse Capacity Initiative (INCI) led by ICAP at Columbia University, implements NEPI programs in partner countries. http://www.amipnews.org
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Zimbabwe PM Morgan Tsvangirai Breaks Wedding Taboo
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By Brian Hungwe BBC Africa, Harare
Zimbabwe's Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai has broken a local taboo and married in November.
Culturally it is feared a November wedding will bring a couple bad luck.
But the PM wed businesswoman Locadia Tembo in a traditional ceremony on Monday, paying a bride price of $36,000 (ÂŁ23,000) and 10 cows.
His first wife, Susan, died when they were involved in a car crash not long after he had joined President Robert Mugabe in a unity government in 2009.
with elections tentatively set for next year, a presidential candidate will benefit from having the help of a wife and companion on the campaign trail.
On the streets of Harare there were dissenting views, however, with some The two leaders signed a coalition people concerned about the issue of a pact following the previous year's disNovember wedding. puted elections, which were marred by widespread violence. "As an elder he should have led by White wedding request example - they are the ones that are The first hint that Mr Tsvangirai was telling us not to marry in November," one man told the BBC. thinking of tying the knot came at a
weekend rally of his Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) party in Chitungwiza, just outside the capital, Harare.
The MDC leader, 59, joked with the crowd that journalists were always writing about him having girlfriends.
"But can a bachelor be denied that right?" he asked to a roar of laughter and applause.
Ms Tembo, 39, is a commodity trader and sister of an MP in Mr Mugabe's Zanu-PF party - a source of controversy among some in the MDC. But most MDC supporters seem happy for their leader, saying that
After paying the bride price, known as lobola, to Ms Tembo's relatives at the traditional ceremony in Christon Bank, about 25km (15 miles) north of Harare, Mr Tsvangirai reportedly requested a white wedding to follow the traditional ceremony.
It is this celebration that may adhere more to Zimbabwean tradition, with indications that it will be held over the Christmas holidays.
Jameson Timba, a minister of state in the prime minister's office, told the BBC that Mr Tsvangirai would "make an appropriate announcement on his marriage plans at the right time"
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Fif Wilson in the Spotlight
We are also running a spiritual clinic every Wednesday where people receive counseling on various issues. It is amazing the testimonies that are coming out of this”.
About how many people join the prayer conference line on a daily basis?
Ordination as an Apostle in Chicago
me I believe the fruits of the ministry really stand out”.
What other activities is the ministry involved in?
“We have an online radio station, www.divinefm.com, which is attracting listeners from all over the world. The radio station is serving to propagate the Gospel. We are also operating the Divine Care Charities which has donated tremendously to support orphans and the underprivileged in Ghana. The Ministry recently sent a 10-member delegation to Ghana to donate items worth thousands of dollars to some orphanages in Kumasi and Accra last year. We made donations to the Korle-Bu Teaching hospital and paid the medical bills of several patients waiting to be discharged. We catered for the prescription drugs of hundreds of patients. It is our goal to build our own orphanage. In the future , we would like to send medical personnel to Ghana to volunteer their services in rural areas.
“Currently it is difficult to estimate because apart from about 2,000 on the conference telephone line ,there are others who will be praying with us from the internet radio station, www.divinefm.org and people also dial in to the radio station from their cell phones. Currently we have set up a number that people are able to dial in from Ghana free of charge. Every night about 300 people join us from Ghana and several others from China, Germany and many parts of Europe. We are therefore taking ministry to a different level and to people at home”. Can you tell me about your recent award and your promotion to the office of Apostle?
“The Corllins University contacted me because they had heard about the work I have been doing by way of supporting the underprivileged, the convention events and how much the ministry has been impacting lives and decided to confer an honorary Doctorate Degree in Divinity and Biblical Counseling on me . The occasion coincided with my ordination as an Apostle of God by the Cambridge Theological Seminary of Columbus Ohio. It was really an honor but it is amazing how God planned these two events together in Chicago.
After these elevations, what is next for you?
“I am about to launch a new book entitled Move On –God Got You Covered. It is based on a story of my life . It tells the story of an orphan struggling to go to school and how God opened doors for him and his life became a blessing. For me, rising up after falling is the key (Job 14:7) .The book will be available on amazon.com, at Barnes and Noble, and most notable bookstores”. Where do you want to see your ministry in five years from now?
“We already have a mega prayer line and I would like to see the ministry expand into a mega ministry with nationals of every country on the globe joining us to worship and praise God. The ministry has had a great influence on people’s lives. Anyone is free to join us on the prayer line at phone number 1-712 -432-1615, code 123123#”. Amenooooo !!!!!!!
Listening to Music was FiF's favorite thing to do. As a child growing up, listening to Snoop Dogg's and Dr Dre's song “Nuthin But a G Thang” inspired Fif to become a rapper. Later, when he heard Sisqo's hit song "The Thong Song," although he didn't really understand what the song meant at that time, Fif pictured himself making it big. He felt as though that should be him on television. In essence, he imagined seeing himself from the big screens to the magazines. This was his dream. However, born into a family with both parents being Ghanaians, education was the only priority for Fif. For example in the Ghanaian community, a child must eat, breathe education and nothing else. Ghanaian culture is mainly based on a child going to school and becoming a better member in society. If a Ghanaian child wanted to do something different, for instance if he or she wanted to pursue a career in dancing, music, etc. a few Ghanaian parents would support that dream. In Fif's case being raised in the Ghanaian culture, his parents were not happy when they found out that their son wanted to become a rapper. As a result, when Fif aka Fif Wilson discovered his passion for music, he did not take it seriously. Eventually Fif's mother, Theresah, realized how important music was to her son so she supported his dream. Even though she wasn't sure if her son was capable of becoming a rapper, nonetheless, she had faith in him. Therefore, she would always say to Fif, “in everything that you do or plan on doing in life, always put faith first." These were the strong words that came from his mother. Thus, he uses these words as an inspiration when he makes music. Also, that’s where the name "Fif" came from, meaning "Faith Is First.” Fif is now known for his most recent and popular song "U Were My Baby," which has gotten a lot of recognition from his audience and other musicians. It's being played on Jammin 94.5.
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Rest in Peace Pastor Kofi Nti
Rev. Nti was an asset to the commmunity, a visionary who patronized Diasporan African initiatives and was an avid reader of the Afrikan Post. He was a mentor to many youth and married couples, a fervent prayer warrior, a father, brother and an uncle, fondly referred to as Osofo Kofi Nti. He was a notable humanitarian, a spiritual actvist and an agent of change who will be remembered forever. He leaves behind a wife and two young children. May his soul rest in perfect peace !! Wofa Kofi Nti “Dayie”. !!!!! Funeral will be held at New Jersey on December 9 (viewing) and December 10, 2011.(Burial)
Reverend Kofi Nti was the Overseer of Freedom Gate Chapel “The Mega Church for the Mega People” in Somerset, New Jersey. He started out in ministry as an active member of the Bethel Prayer Ministries and Christ Pentecostal International Church in Virginia and was later assigned to the New Jersey Branch as Pastor. He inaugurated the Freedom Gate Chapel in March 2011 and established a branch in Virginia shortly afterwards.
Reverend Kofi Nti
Ghana's Ambassador to Canada is dead November
Ghana’s High Commissioner to Canada, Dr. Richard Turkson is dead. He died on Wednesday, November 23rd after a short illness. Dr. Turkson had only days ago played host to President John Mills who paid a four day official visit to Canada. The Ambassador has served in many capacities including the following Dean of the Faculty of Law, University of Ghana, Legon; Visiting Professor, Temple University Law School, Philadelphia, USA; Commonwealth Secretariat Technical Expert attached to the Department of Law, University of Mauritius, Reduit, Mauritius He has led several Ghana Government delegations to meetings of the UNFPA Executive Board (1998-2000) and the UN Commission on Population and Development (2002 and 2003. He also actively participated as a member of Ghana Government delegations to The Hague Forum (1999); the ICPD + 5 Review (New York, 1999); the UN General Assembly Special Session on HIV/AIDS (2001), and the ICPD + 10 Review (New York, 2004). Dr. Richard B. Turkson was from 1990 to 1993 Africa Regional Director of the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) whose headquarters is located in
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London, UK. In November 1993, he was reassigned to the newly-created post of IPPF Legal Consultant (Africa), a position he held until July 1995. His publications and conference presentations include: The Family Planning Movement in Africa: the Pathway to Recognition; Reproductive Rights within the Context of Current International Human Rights Instruments; The History of Family Planning in West Africa: 1964 – 2004 and Legal and Policy Barriers to Family Planning in Swaziland, Zambia, Senegal and Burkina Faso (edited by Turkson and published by IPPF as a tool for advocacy at the NGO Forum preceding the historic Beijing Conference in 1995). Source:Ghanaweb.com
Commissioning of Bodomasi Community Clinic Hurray !!!! Join Us on Monday,
December 26, 2011 to Celebrate the Commissioning of the Bodomasi CommunityClinic
Funded by Members of the Bodomasi Development Association of USA. (BODDAUSA)
Many thanks to all who contributed to this Project
Bodomase is situated in the center of a cluster of towns in the Sekyere East District of the Ashanti Region of Ghana. Besoro, Annanagya, Abotanso, Kumawu, Onoo, Nkwanta, Temaate, Soboyo, Ntaantale, Domaase .
The clinic will serve the needs of about 150,000 people from Kumawu, Besoro, Nkwanta, Temaate, Bodomasi, Ntaantale,Woraso, Abotanso and Anananya
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Afrikan
Actress Sponsors 10,000 Kids
Post
Nigerian Actress Turns Deaconess November 2011
“I want to do this project to help the less-privileged children in acquiring knowledge. Because knowledge is power and education is the key to success, I want to embark on this project. Education breeds respect, enhances the chances of a better living. Therefore with my help, these kids can gain the knowledge to live a better life by applying that knowledge. With a little education, one can eat with kings,” Nikki told NEWS-ONE over the weekend.
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Close sources to Nikki told this paper that some of her friends in the entertainment industry were trying to frustrate her efforts for the take off of the project because they also had similar projects in mind.
Apparently, a mafia group has been formed against her with the purpose of cutting down all sponsorship deals that she will get. Nikki is often described as a jack of all trades. She modBeautiful Ghanaian actress Nikki Samonas has initi- eled and did a couple of TV commercials before entering ated a move to positively affect the lives of over the movie industry. 10,000 school children across Ghana. She is currently trying her hands at TV presentation. At exactly 5pm every Sunday, fans of the actress can catch a This is part of her efforts to give back to the society glimpse of her on TV3 while she takes viewers through which contributed to her successful movie career. happenings in Ghana’s movie industry and beyond. The sleek-looking actress has established a NonGovernmental Organization, ‘Help Them Learn’, to Dubbed ‘African Movie Review’, the show is about provide free exercise books to all Junior High everything that involves movies including behind the School pupils nationwide. scenes, movie premieres, red carpet events, celebrity
NEWS-ONE sources say she is targeting 10,000 books for every district in Ghana. Nikki intends to start the project in Offinso South District next year, during first term of the school season. But what is not clear is how she is going to fund the project which is no doubt one of the best aimed at reducing the suffering of parents who find it difficult to buy books for their wards.
The actress was on TV last week Friday, virtually begging for support. She made her first appearance on eTV’s Late Night Celebrity Show with singer Chase. She took time to advertise her project and begged for support.
news, latest movies in the market and movie countdown.
Born Nikoletta Samonas, she had a stint with Ghana’s movie industry a few years ago after she was given a minor role by Abdul Salam in ‘Beyonce.’ By then she was at the University Of Science and Technology. Later, she played lead in AA production’s ‘Pretty Queen’.
Some of the movies she has starred in include ‘Beyonce 1&2’, ‘War of Roses’, ‘Desperate Measures’, ‘Deadly Obsession’, ‘Pretty Queen’, ‘Wrong line’ and ‘Red Label’. “Acting was never in my plans. It was modeling. I started with advert modeling on TV before Salam brought me into the movies,” she once said. Source: News One
Clarion Chukwura
Clarion Chukwura has not been Lagos State. as active as she used to be on television. The reason is not far- Chukwura told us in a telefetched. phone interview that she was very happy about the ordinaThe screen diva delved into tion. fashion, following the launch of her clothing line, Clarion “I’m very excited about my Chukwura Clothing (C3). ordination. Contrary to what people think, I’m a very spirituNow, it seems Chukwura might al person. I don’t joke with my be more religious than she spirituality,” she says. makes out. Believe it or not, she is about to be ordained as a deaconess at the Jesus Dominion Source: nowmagazine Assembly, Omole Phase I,
Submission For Africa Movie Academy Awards To Close On December 30 The Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) is calling for feature, short and documentary entries for its 2012 edition, to be held in April in Nigeria, home to the world’s third largest film industry. The deadline for submissions is 30 December 2011.
Since its inception in 2005, AMAA has established itself as the most prestigious and glamorous awards celebrating filmmaking on the continent. The gala event, which is televised live around the world, attracts Hollywood celebrities alongside their African counterparts, as well as African politicians and media.
“Our theme this year is Africa Rising,” says founder Peace Anyiam-Osigwe. “With the success of last year’s AMAA winner, Viva Riva!,
all of a sudden there’s this great awareness of the possibilities in Africa. It challenged the ideology of what African cinema is all about.” After winning six awards at AMAA 2011, Djo Tundawa Munga’s gritty Congolese crime drama was released in America, Canada, Europe, Australasia, and an unprecedented 18 African countries to rave reviews, demonstrating the untapped audience potential of the roughly one billion Africans on the continent.
“This has been an exciting year for African cinema,” says Peace. “We’ve also seen the UK release of six
Nollywood films, with Lonzo Nzekwe’s Anchor Baby and Obi Emelonye’s Mirror Boy having extended runs at The Odeon Cinema in England.” Only films produced and released between December 2010 and December 2011 are eligible. Features may not exceed 120 minutes and shorts may not be longer than 40 minutes. Submission forms can be downloaded from the AMAA website, http://www.ama-awards.com/ Nominations will be announced in February 2012. Source: Ameyaw Debrah
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The Absurdity of You
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Dr. Miriam C. Gyimah
hese days, I find myself more and more in disbelief when I hear arguments against Christians and their faith. Christian values, what most people at one point called good moral values, are not only questioned but ridiculed on television and other media sources. Espousing Christian beliefs has become a joke to too many. It is unbelievable to me how much this country has changed in thinking, lifestyle and moral choices in the past twenty-five years. What was once unspeakable is now the norm and anyone who does not accept it is rather the one who is unreasonable and even ridiculous. It isn’t that I was unaware the country and the world are changing and have changed for the worse morally. But the ideas of a commentator on a program recently arrested my attention and I was simply taken aback with what she was claiming as normal. Not only did she discredit those who believe in God as insane, but her views on life and family went far beyond even what one usually heard from nonbelievers. Contradictorily, she and her supporters are convinced that those who share their philosophy and attitude are rather progressive and rational. I wondered how this sort of thinking had developed and how it had come to shape the minds and attitudes of so many in the country and the world. I wondered how a nation once built on the virtues of God had become so separated from God. Finally, I wondered how it could possibly be difficult for someone to believe in God and His virtues, seeing all the evidence of His existence around us. About two days later, as I was reading 1st John 3:1, I had an “aha” moment and then understood why this person, like many others I have seen, heard or read of, could think the way she does. The above Biblical text states: “See how great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God; and such we are. For this reason the world does not know us, because it did not know Him.” Right there and then, I recalled the commentator and thought no wonder! If the concept of God is ludicrous to her and those like her, how much more His follow-
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ers? How can one begin to accept and take seriously Christians when they couldn’t even imagine, much less accept, the very idea of their God? Furthermore, 1st John 5-7 warns that “They are from the world; therefore they speak as from the world, and the world listens to them. We are from God; he who knows God listens to us; he who is not from God does not listen to us. By this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error.” With this occupying my mind, I knew I had my next topic, and there, the title “The Absurdity of You” was conceived. As I began to write this article, my thoughts were that I was going to set as the article’s foundation the scripture in 1st John 3:1 and focus on the divide between those who know God and those who do not and why the makings of our minds and belief systems are so vastly different. Furthermore, my focus was going to be that this divide exists because Satan has misled and blinded the unbelievers. Such influence is why they think the way they do and consequently, why this country and the rest of the world has become what it is. However, four paragraphs and one week later, while praying again for God’s guidance on writing the article, I was further enlightened. I sensed my prayer request being answered as the thoughts I was to share on the topic began to flow so fast that I had to leave my bedside, go to my home office to retrieve my notebook and resume writing the article. The Lord shared with me that indeed there is a divide, and Satan has been doing his part to create and maintain this divide, but that we as Christians have also fueled this separation ensuring that nonbelievers will remain hardened to His word. In the end, the blame cannot be laid only at the doorsteps of Satan, but at ours as well because of what we Christians do and also fail to do. Undoubtedly, there is a divide and it is developing wider by the day. The two sides of that divide, as noted above, have been drawn as the absurd and the rational. If you are one whose life and decisions are shaped and informed by biblical doctrine and principles, you are perceived as strange or absurd. However, if you espouse a rejection of such ideals and rather embrace some sentiments contrary to biblical guidance, then you are considered advanced, rational and your ideas more acceptable to the changing world. People have and are rejecting God’s principles and fabricating their own to live by. This is the new morality. The very idea of this new morality, where immoral choices have been renamed moral speaks to the reality that
Satan has done a number on the people, culture and atmosphere. People are hardened and have not only become deaf to God’s word, but they have also believed the lies told by Satan. The fact remains that the Way, the Truth, and the Life as presented by and through Christ (John 14:6) have become absurd and as a result, those who follow His truth, His way and Him are the absurd. But the absurdity of the Christian has a double meaning. What I learned as I prayed about the topic was that the absurdity of you is twofold. First, as a Christian, you are absurd, unexplainable, because you believe in God— an unknown mysterious being who cannot be comprehended. Your God cannot be understood and your belief in Him leaves so many even more puzzled, shaking their heads at your supposed gullibility or possible insanity. As a result, those who esteem their views beyond knowledge of God reject Him. But on the other hand, the absurdity also points to the fact that we as Christians are to be the salt of the earth, but who knows of salt that has lost its savor? Such salt is absurd—it ceases to be salt and as the Bible says, it is worth nothing but to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet (Matt. 5:13). I learned through writing this piece that part of why people’s hearts have been hardened is that Satan, that opposer of God and His righteousness, has been effectively working long and hard to harden mankind’s heart and soul and to turn them away from any possibility of righteousness. He would rather that we value our education, scientific, philosophical and social knowledge and statuses rather than the knowledge of God. And because people are indulging in this heightened sense of self-appraisal and confidence, the world has become more godless and this godless behavior is exemplified in the discourse and experiential practices of today’s generation. Part of the reason this effect has become so pronounced is that too many Christians have lost their savor. Although the gospel of Christ is now more spread than ever before, largely due to technology, and many Christians are doing their part to live by and spread biblical principles, too many Christians are simply not exemplifying the word of God as we should. We are often not living the life that Christ called us to live as individuals and as a body. We are characterized as hypocrites, doing the same things or worse than an unbeliever. Whether it is bickering, cursing, gossiping, stealing, coveting someone’s property or spouse, Christians are found guilty. While Christ’s
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exemplary life caused many to be drawn to Him, too many “Christians” rather turn people away from Christ. Again, too many of us are either consistently practicing hypocrisy or we are inconsistent in following our Christian principles. Furthermore, we are so selfinvolved that we do not consider how our lives are images or texts to be read by onlookers. It is the testimonies of our lives, what people see and hear that will draw them to the saving knowledge of God. It is our lives as a text that will touch that hardened and distrustful heart of an unbeliever to see something divine in us, to see that indeed, there is a God, there is validity in Christ and Christianity. We can’t be perfect, but we operate too much in the flesh to make the impact Christ desires we make. We need to resist the flesh more; we need to understand and remember our role and commitment as Christians so that we are able to mimic the impact Christ had on others. Revelations 12:11 tells us that we overcame the enemy by the blood of the lamb and by the testimony of the saints. Those testimonies are not only accounts of our triumphs from our trials and tribulations, but they also refer to the words we speak, the messages we knowingly or unknowingly impart to others simply by living a life consistent to the teachings of Christ. But if we are failing to do this, to have our lives be an open chapter of the Word of Life, to have our lives be a supplementary text to the Bible, then are we not absurd? We can’t simply shake our heads at the unbelievers, the atheists, the unaffected, the disputers of Christ and His word; we have to see how we are culpable in all of this. How is it that the world is becoming more depraved in deeds, lifestyles and decisions when there is plenty of salt to go around? I acknowledge that these are the last days and the Bible rightly predicts the last days will be even more wicked as mankind will draw away from God, but part of the cause of that effect is that professed followers of Christ are not consistently living the life that Christ has called us to live. So when one who doesn’t know Christ sees us and does not see anything in us to be desired, then it only substantiates their opinion that the belief in Christ is absurd. Again, we are not without fault, but we have become so involved in the flesh and worldly things that the main difference between us and the unbelievers is our religious beliefs and not our acts. We have to bear in mind we are the salt of the earth and have been called to live the Truth, the Way and the Life.
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Dr. Papa Kwasi Nduom of Ghana Holds Town Hall Meeting in Woodbridge, Virginia
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Dr Papa Kwesi Nduom, a Ghanaian Presidential aspirant held a town hall meeting at the Garden Hall next to Aburi Gardens restaurant in Woodbridge , Virginia to seek the support of Ghanaians in the area and impress upon them why Ghanaians should vote for him as the next President of Ghana. If elected Dr. Nduom plans to provide better health care and cleaner environment, provide energy for industrialisation and rapid development, address crime, drug trafficking and corruption, create a homecoming secretariat and above all create jobs for the people of Ghana. In 2000 he became chairman of the Board of Deloitte Africa and adviser to the African Development Bank . Other positions he held include: chairman of the Ghana Stock Exchange Council, Board member of Fan Milk Ghana, Board member Edinaman SHS, Board member of the Ghana Heritage and Conservation Trust and the Chairman of First National Bank. In the public sector, Dr. Nduom has served as Ghana’s Energy Minister, Minister for Economic Planning and Regional Cooperation, and Minister for Public Sector Reform. Dr Nduom said he has a vast experience and the expertise and was therefore the best person to lead Ghana to the “promised land”. Dr. Papa Kwasi Nduom was the presidential candidate of the Convention People’s Party (CPP) in the 2008 Presidential elections .
Dr Papa Kwesi Nduom
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Peas
Facts & Figures About Africa
November
Geographical
Africa, second-largest of the Earth's seven continents - covering about 30,330,000 sq km (11,699,000 sq mi), which makes up about 22 per cent of the world's total land area.
Largest Country Sudan, Republic of, republic in north-eastern Africa, the largest country of the African continent. Sudan has a total area of 2,505,800 sq km (967,490 sq mi).
Smallest Country The smallest African country is The Seychelles covering an area of 453 sq km but Gambia is the smallest of the mainland African states, covering an area of 11,300 sq km (4,363 sq mi).
Largest City Egypt's capital city, Cairo, is the largest city in Africa with an estimated 9.2 million population
Highest Point Mount Kilimanjaro - Uhuru Point - (5895m/19,340 ft) in Tanzania
Lowest Point the lowest is Lake 'Asal (153 m/502 ft below sea level) in Djibouti
Northernmost tip is Cape Blanc (Ra's al Abyad;) in Tunisia
Southernmost tip is Cape Agulhas in South Africa
Largest Lake Lake Victoria is the largest lake in Africa and the is the world's second-largest freshwater lake - covering an area of 69,490 sq km (26,830 sq mi) and lies 1,130 m (3,720 ft) above sea level. Its greatest known depth is 82 m (270 ft).
Deepest Lake Lake Tanganyika is the deepest lake in Africa reaching at its greatest depth is 1,436 m (4,710 ft), making it the second deepest freshwater lake in the world after Lake Baikal.
Longest River The River Nile drains north-eastern Africa, and, at 6,650 km (4,132 miles), is the longest river in Africa and in the world. It is formed from the Blue Nile, which originates at Lake Tana in Ethiopia, and the White Nile, which originates at Lake Victoria.
The Great Africa Rift Valley The Rift Valley extends more than 4,830 km (3,000 mi) from Syria in south-western Asia to Mozambique in south-eastern Africa. The width of the valley ranges from a few miles to more than 160 km (100 mi). In eastern Africa, the valley splits into two branches: the Eastern Rift and the Western Rift
The fault in which the Rift sits is still moving: the western side of the rift is pulling away from the eastern ridge at about 6 mm per year, while in the south it is moving together at a rate of 2 mm per year.
Lake Malawi Lake Malawi contains the largest number of fish species of any lake in the world, probably over 500 from ten families. Particularly noteworthy are the Cichlidae, of which all but five of over 400 species are endemic to Lake Malawi. The lake contains 30% of all known cichlid species. Of particular interest is the 'mbuna' rock fish.
Namib Desert The Namib is the world's oldest desert, and the only desert in Africa inhabited by elephant, rhino, giraffe and lion
Namibia - Fish River Canyon The Fish River canyon is the second largest canyon in the world.
The Sahara Desert The Sahara Desert alone is expanding southwards at an average of 0.8 km (½ mile) a month.
Wildlife Four of the five fastest land animals live in Africa - the cheetah (70 mph), wildebeest, lion, and Thomson's gazelle (all about 50 mph).
Penguins (see our photo) South Africa has a penguin colony, which thrives thanks to the cold Antarctic currents on the west coast near the Cape.
Chameleons Madagascar is the home of the worlds largest as well as the smallest chameleons! Almost half of the world’s chameleon species live on the island of Madagascar. ( more info )
Seals The largest seal colony in the southern hemisphere is a Cape Cross in Namibia. ( more info )
Frogs The world's biggest frog is found in Cameroon. Named the goliath frog, their body can be one-foot long. ( more info )
Nile Crocodiles The Nile crocodile is Africa's largest living reptile - growing to an average length of 5 m. (more info )
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Fish
The only place where shools of fresh water sardines are found is in Lake Tanganyika. Culture Ancient Egyptians The ancient Egyptians slept on pillows made of stone. ( find out more about Ancient Egypt )
Beer Apart from Muslim nations, Ghana has the lowest per capita consumption of beer in Africa, yet its brewery industry is one of the most competitive Weddings Did you know that in Africa it is almost imposible to hold a small wedding? The idea of a private wedding is unknown and is greatly frowned upon. Friends and relatives expect to be invited to a wedding and to play a role in the ceremony.
) Health Malaria 90% of all malaria cases are in sub-Saharan Africa 3,000 children under the age of five die each day from malaria in Africa 1-5% of GDP in Africa covers costs of malaria control and lost labour days Did you know, that Africa would have been an estimated US $100 billion better off in 1999 if malaria had been eliminated years ago?
African Elephants Aids The African elephant is the largest living land mammal. An elephant can weigh up to 6-7 tons and has no natural enemies 17 million people in sub-Saharan Africa have died of AIDS for he is not a predator and there is none large enough to chalAt least 25 million people in Africa are HIV-positive. lenge him.
Did you know elephants drink up to 160 liters of water per day and a mature elephant can carry up to 6.8 liters of water in its trunk
12 million children who have lost their parents to AIDS face a precarious future.
Hospitals The world's biggest hospital is in Soweto. An African elephant possesses such "manual" dexterity in his/her trunk tip that he/she can actually turn the pages of a book with it. Language (more info ) Kiswahili The word "Crossword" in Kiswahili is "chemshebongo" which, Giraffes when translated, means "boil brains". Did you know that the tongue of a giraffe can be as long as 45
cm?
Giraffes are 6 ft tall when they are born. (more info ) Even though their necks can be 6-7 feet in length, Giraffe have the same number of vertabrae in their necks as humans (7)
The tallest animal on earth is the giraffe - its horn tops being up to 6 metres above ground level.
Gorillas The Gorilla is the largest of the living primates, male gorillas weight up to 200kg, yet are shy and retiring. ( more info )
Cheetahs The cheetah is the fastest land animal at 95 km/h (60mph).
Beetles The world's largest and heaviest beetle, the Goliath Beetle is found in tropical Africa. It can reach a length of 5 inches and weigh up to ¼ lb more info
Butterfly Having a wingspan of only ½", the smallest butterfly is in the world is found in South Africa. It is know as the Dwarf Blue Butterfly
In East & Central Africa the British Army was still remembered. One regiment was known in Kiswahili as "Magi Bareedi Askari", translated this is "Water Cold Soldiers" or in other words the "Cold Stream Guards". (supplied by Simon Vivian)
Diamonds The world's largest diamond was the Cullinan, found in South Africa in 1905. It weighed 3,106.75 carats uncut. It was cut into the Great Star of Africa, weighing 530.2 carats, the Lesser Star of Africa, which weighs 317.40 carats, and 104 other diamonds of nearly flawless colour and clarity. They now form part of the British crown jewels. Windmills Did you know there are about 280 000 windmills on farms across South Africa, second in number only to Australia?
Most Populated Country With a population of more than 113 million, Nigeria is easily the most populated country in Africa and the 10th most populous
country in the world. Source: Wikipedia
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Nigeria's ex-Biafra Gambia's Yahya Jammeh Wins leader Fourth Presidential Term Chukwuemeka Ojukwu dies
Profile of Gambia
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President Yahya Jammeh seized power in a bloodless coup in 1994 and has ruled with an iron fist ever since.
Stability has not translated into prosperity. Despite the presence of the Gambia river, which runs through the middle of the country, only one-sixth of the land is arable and poor soil quality has led to the predominance of one crop - peanuts.
This has made The Gambia heavily dependent on peanut exports - and a hostage to fluctuations in the production and world prices of the crop.
Consequently, the country relies on foreign aid to fill gaps in its balance of payments.
The Gambia's President Yahya Jammeh has won a fourth term in office , taking 72% of the vote, the election commission has said.
The former leader of the Nigerian breakaway state of Biafra, Chukwuemeka Ojukwu, has died in the UK after a long illness, aged 78.
Col Ojukwu's declaration of a secessionist state in 1967 sparked the Nigerian civil war, in which more than a million people died.
He remained a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, running twice as a presidential candidate in the 2000s.
A spokesman in Anambra state said he had been ill after suffering a stroke.
Col Ojukwu went into exile after the Biafrans surrendered in 1970, returning more than a decade later after he was officially pardoned.
In a statement, President Goodluck Jonathan praised Col Ojukwu for his "immense love for his people, justice, equity and fairness which forced him into the leading role he played in the Nigerian civil war."
Source: BBCNews.com
Electoral chairman Mustapha Carayol said voter turnout had been 83%.
Opposition candidates Ousainou Darboe and Hamat Bah took 17% and 11% respectively, he said.
But Mr Darboe called the results "bogus, fraudulent and preposterous" and he urged the international community not to accept them.
"[They] constitute a capricious deception of the will of the people," the United Democratic Party leader said.
Ahead of the poll, the West African regional body Ecowas said the vote would not be free or fair because of intimidation by the governing party.
The 15-nation bloc said its investigations found "an opposition and electorate cowed by repression and intimidation" and it refused to send election observers to the tiny West African country.
But observers from the African Union (AU), Commonwealth and the Organisation of Islamic Co-operation (OIC) did monitor the poll.
Mr Jammeh, who came to power in a bloodless coup 17 years ago, has a bigger mandate than in 2006 when he won 67% of the vote in polls widely criticised by observers.
In that election, Mr Darboe secured 27% of the vote and turnout was about 59%. After he cast his vote Mr Jammeh said he was in no doubt that he would win "In 17 years, I have delivered more development than the British were able to deliver in 400 years," he told the BBC.
"Do I look like a loser? There is no way I can lose unless you tell me that all Gambian people are mad," he said.
Mr Jammeh's government has been criticised by international rights groups for its attitude to civil liberties, especially freedom of the press and the detention and disappearance of journalists.
In response to such criticism, he said on Thursday: "The journalists are less than 1% of the population and if anybody expects me to allow less than 1% of the population to destroy 99% of the population, you are in the wrong place.
President Yahya Jammeh
Overthrew The Gambia's first president as a 29-year-old army lieutenant in 1994 These groups said there may have been some Previously won three widely criticised problems leading up to the campaign, but the elections election period itself was credible, the BBC's Accused of not tolerating opposition or Umaru Fofana reports from Gambia's biggest independent journalists town Serrekunda, near the capital, Banjul. Claimed in 2007 that he could cure Aids with a herbal concoction He says Mr Jammeh's supporters from the gov- Warned in 2008 that gay people would be erning Alliance for Patriotic Reorientation and beheaded Construction party, wearing green T-shirts and Eight men sentenced to death last year waving mango tree leaves, can be seen celeafter being accused of plotting to overbrating in Serrekunda. Others are driving throw him through the streets honking their horns. Source:BBCNews.com
President Jammeh wants to turn The Gambia into an oil-producing state. He says this could usher in a "new future". However, the country has yet to strike crude oil.
Tourism is an important source of foreign exchange, as is the money sent home by Gambians living abroad. Most visitors are drawn to the resorts that occupy a stretch of the Atlantic coast.
In 1994 The Gambia's elected government was toppled in a military coup. The country returned to constitutional rule two years later when its military leader ran as a civilian and won a presidential election.
Full name: Republic of The Gambia Population: 1.7 million (UN, 2010) Capital: Banjul Area: 11,295 sq km (4,361 sq miles) Major languages: English (official), Mandinka, Wolof, Fula Major religions: Islam, Christianity Life expectancy: 56 years (men), 59 years (women) (UN) Monetary unit: 1 dalasi = 100 butut Main exports: Peanuts and peanut products, fish, cotton lint, palm kernels GNI per capita: US $440 (World Bank, 2009) Internet domain: .gm International dialling code: +220 Country profile compiled by BBC Monitoring
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The percentage of people aged over 65 in Africa has grown to 3.6 percent in 2010 from 3.3 percent in 2000. It is a long-term phenomenon, having steadily grown over the last 40 years, and it will accelerate in coming years.
The elderly could account for 4.5 percent of the continent's population by 2030, and almost 10 percent by 2050. In some countries, the proportion of older people will match that of industrialised countries by 2030 and 2050.
middle-income African countries, such as Mauritius, South Africa, Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia. Other countries such as Libya, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Djibouti have also witnessed fast growth among the elderly population.
However, unlike many developed countries, African nations are in general not particularly well equipped to deal with the growing numbers of older people. The main concerns are healthcare and pensions.
In much of Africa, governments spend far less on health care than in most of the developed world. In 2005, 48 of the 54 African countries spent an average of less than USD 26 per capita on healthcare.
The deterioration in traditional patterns of family support in Africa compounds the probThe statistics in the report run contrary to lem. This deterioration is due to growing the generally accepted view in the west urbanisation and - in some African countries that Africa is a place with low life the effects of HIV/AIDS. Many elderly people expectancy. Life expectancy in Africa is in Africa are burdened with childcare because still lower than in developed countries, but of the HIV/AIDS-related deaths of parents. it is increasing. The healthcare problem is critical because of Life expectancy at birth in Africa was 52.7 long-term chronic conditions associated with years in 1990, but had risen to 56 years by age, such as heart disease, cancer, respiratory 2010.The biggest growth has occurred in disorders and dementia.
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Africa: Growing Old in Africa An Uncertain Future, Reports AFDB
Africa's population is ageing, just like in the rest of the world, but the continent's governments are ill equipped to handle the growing number of older people. That's the main conclusion of a new report from the African Development Bank (AfDB).
2011
Older populations across the world suffer these ailments, but the AfDB report suggests that they will increase faster in developing countries, where the system is less capable of dealing with them, than in the developed world.
Many older Africans also do not have even a small pension to rely on. The report says: 'Contributory pension schemes cover very few people due to the informality of most livelihood activities and employment. Most societies are predominantly rural and much of the population operates outside the security of formal sector, wage-dependent markets'. AllAfrica - All the Time
Africa’s Top Ten National Soccer Teams (Global FIFA Ranking In Brackets): 1. Ivory Coast (16) 2. Ghana (29)
3. Algeria (30) 4. Egypt (31)
5. Nigeria (43)
6. Senegal (44)
7. Cameroon (48)
8. South Africa (53) 9. Cape Verde (57)
10. Tunisia (59) Source: ghanasoccernet
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Afrikan
Private & Public Use Of Tongues – Part 2
Post
Rev. George Annan
PRAYING WITH THE SPIRIT AND PRAYING WITH THE UNDERSTANDING SINGING WITH THE SPIRIT AND SINGING WITH THE UNDERSTANDING
In 1 Corinthians 14:1-40 Paul continues to give us hint about the possibility of praying in two realms. He calls it praying in the spirit and praying with the understanding. When we pray in Tongues, we pray in the Spirit. Our understanding is unfruitful because we don’t speak to men. In other words we don’t expect people to understand.
Even though no man understands him his spirit is praying. For the purpose of those around him which may include unbelievers Paul offers wisdom of praying with the understanding also. Praying with the understanding is using your own language. The reason is that in a public meeting there is normally a cross section of people on different level of spiritual growth with different perceptions on spiritual things so when you are ministering to them they have to understand and respond in unison as instructed in 1 Corinthians 14:7. That is what brings order. In chapter 14 of 1 Corinthians Paul addresses the
assembly of believers in Corinth. He reiterates that we assemble together as Christians to minister to God and to be ministered to. Each of us comes to the meeting with a hymn, Psalm, a song, a Tongue, interpretation or a word. Paul’s concern was that things will be done in an orderly fashion that each will be edified and ministered to. To achieve that Paul says when it comes to public ministry it’s important to speak in a distinct language everybody can understand and be prepared because every sound must be distinct (clear). Distinct language could be your native language or tongues with interpretation. In verse 13-15 Paul makes it clear that when the whole church come together in one place he will prefer us to pray with the spirit and also pray with the understanding. And also to sing with the spirit and with the understanding. Paul did not condemn the use of Tongues as unbiblical but he drew the line between the private and the public use of Tongues. When time is set aside for corporate prayer or worship it is alright tol pray and sing in Tongues because that is a private time with God no man is suppose to understand but in spirit we speak mysteries. But when its time to minister to the congregation its proper, respectful and ethical that we speak in our understanding; a language everyone in the meeting understands. If tongues pop up which can happen it must be followed by interpretation and should be one after the other and not without restraint because it must be subject to judgment by the leadership and must come to confirm and edify not to terrify as has happen in some instances. In conclusion Paul highlights in verse:32-33 and 40 that his concern is about order. The church is engaged in spiritual warfare with Satan who is the author of confusion. He must not be given a room to operate. Paul reminds us that our Spirits are subject to us so it’s our duty to bring it under subjection in humility so that things can be done in the house of God in order and decency. To read more articles by Pastor George or to get in contact visit: www.redemptionnews.org
Voodoo in Benin
Virgile Ahissou BBC Afrique, Cotonou
phy, language, art, dance, music and medicine.
Voodoo priests ask the gods to intervene on Voodoo is recognised as an official religion in behalf of ordinary people but local adherents Benin, followed by some 40% of the population. stress that they have nothing to do with sorcery or black magic. People across West Africa, especially Togo, Ghana and Nigeria hold similar beliefs. People here do not stick needles into dolls to cause misfortune to their enemies, as you see in Voodoo has none of the negative connotations it some Western films. has in the West and many of those who are officially Christian or Muslim also incorporate some Voodoo elements into their beliefs, especially in Source :BBCNews.com times of crisis.
But Voodoo is more than a belief system, it is a complete way of life, including culture, philoso-
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Pope Celebrates Stadium Mass As Africa Tour Ends
F
Pope Benedict has said an open-air Mass for tens of thousands of people as he wrapped up his three-day African tour.
The pontiff called for reconciliation as he addressed the Friendship Stadium in Cotonou, Benin's main city in the heartland of the Voodoo religion.
The 84-year-old handed over a document showing how doctrine in the Roman Catholic church could heal rifts.
The liturgy was delivered in at least 10 African languages and also broadcast in St Peter's Square, Vatican City.
Many in the crowd dressed in colourful robes emblazoned with the Pope's image, and some of those who had not made it inside, kneeled and prayed in the car park.
The Pontiff urged them "to be attentive to the cry of the poor, the weak and the outcast" as well as "those affected by Aids or other illnesses".
His spiritual vision for Africa - contained in a formal treatise - has been called a "papal road map" for the continent.
It applies doctrines like turning the other cheek and forgiveness to try to address the conflicts in Africa, such as those fuelled by ethnic divisions.
It also calls for good governance and the abolition of the death penalty, and condemns abuse of women and children.
The document was drawn up two years ago at a meeting in Rome by Catholic bishops from all over Africa.
Witchcraft warning
On Saturday, the second day of his visit to Benin, the Pope travelled to the city of Ouidah where he called for respect for traditional beliefs but also issued a warning against witchcraft.
Voodoo is widely practised in Benin, where it has none of the negative connotations often associated with it in Western countries.
The Pope's first public engagement on Friday was at the presidential palace in Cotonou, where he again issued an appeal for reconciliation in front of politicians, diplomats and Church figures.
The rise of Catholicism in Africa is in sharp contrast to Europe, which has seen a steep fall in the number of active faithful. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa15811677
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Afrikan
DJ Rek One (Owusu) Picks a Bride
Post
Mr.and Mrs. Owusu (Rek one)
Family of the bride
The couple and family of Rek Owusu
Rek One sliding a ring on his bride’s finger
November 2011
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The couple pose with Mrs. Georgina Hagan, the bride’s mother
From left:Mr. George Afoakwa (family head of the bride) and Nana Obuor Gyau with mike in hand
A picture with friends
Rek Owusu and his parents
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Miss Africa USA 2011
Afrikan Post
November 2011
Nina Francisco (Miss Angola)
Tsige Hussien( Miss Ethiopia)
Maritsa Barros ( Miss Cape Verde)
Jessica Mayela Miss Republic of Congo
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Senya Donkor (Miss Ghana)
Caressa Cameron Miss America 2010 (Host)
Ghyslaine Tchouaga Miss Cameroon
Assanatti Gama Miss Democratic Republic of Congo
Larry-bell Wora Mpaga Miss Gabon
Priscilla Okwaro Miss Kenya
The final 5 Guinea,Ghana,Cameroon, Nigeria,Liberia
Monica Haule Miss Tanzania
Isha Kaba Miss Sierra Leone
Fatoumata (Fifi) Soumah Miss Africa USA 2010 doing her final walk
Fatima Bokoum Miss Guinea
Yvette Maliza Kibwika Miss Uganda
Hananatu Tunis Miss Liberia
Aini Abukar Miss Somalia
Chinenye Ezurike(Miss Nigeria)
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Highlights of Miss Africa USA 2011 Afrikan
The halls were abuzz and filled with outfits created from all over the world as people representing more than 12 African countries gathered to witness the crowning of the new Miss Africa USA. Held at the Marriott Hotel in Silver Spring, Maryland on Sunday November 13, 2011, the Miss Africa USA event took place around 7 pm. While waiting for the pageant to start, several other beauty queens, were seen chatting with special guests and attendants. The pageant, which was hosted by Ms. Caressa Cameron (Miss America 2010), officially started when Ms. Cameron sang the National Anthem, after the crowd had been entertained by an Ethiopian dance troupe and JQ’s live performance of the song “It Girl”. At 7:15pm exactly, the 16 contestants entered the ballroom and performed a 5 minute opening dance number. After the opening number, Ms. Cameron informed the audience of the night’s order of events : platform/ traditional wear/talent/Top 10/African Wear/ Top 5/ Question and Answer session/Crowning of the new Miss Africa USA. After introducing half of the judges, including her own mother, and a performance by Sam E Entertainment, Ms. Cameron introduced the platform/traditional wear segment. The girls took the stage in the following order: Angola (Nina Francisco), Cameroon (Ghyslaine Tchouaga), Cape Verde (Maritsa Barros), Democratic Republic of Congo ( Assanatti Gama), Ethiopia (Tsige Hussien), Gabon (Larry-bell Wora Mpaga),Ghana (Senya Donkor), Guinea (Fatima Bokoum), Kenya (Priscilla Okwaro), Liberia (Hananatu Tunis), Nigeria (Chinenye Ezurike), Republic of Congo (Jessica Mayela), Sierra Leone (Isha Kaba), Somalia (Aini Abukar), Tanzania (Monica Haule), and Uganda (Yvette M. Kibwika). Miss Cameroon approached the stage with a big beautiful basket on her head, while Miss Cape Verde danced onto the stage with amazing music and wore a cloth that had the map of Cape Verde printed on it, and stated that Cape Verde is a place where one can witness the “union of cultures”. Miss Liberia was quite memorable, with her coconut bra and kente skirt, greeting the audience and stating that she had brought potatoes from her homeland, also known as the place that has the first African female president, Sirleaf. Miss Somalia took the stage and informed everyone that the white in her traditional wear represented purity, the red represented fire, and the beads represented the strength in each soul in Somalia. Miss Tanzania reminded the audience that in life” you don’t help your people because they look like you. You help them because they are your people.” From coconut bras, to tree limbs, to delicately woven cloth, the contestants shined brightly during the traditional wear segment.
At 8:09 pm, Kanja performed , ”This is my Story” , and Hope Masters from the Leon H. Sullivan Foundation (http://www.thesullivanfoundation.org/ ) gave a rousing speech about hope and Africa. Ms. Masters talked about how each contestant was worthy of winning the crown and how Africa is a continent of prosperity. Ms. Masters made an astonishing observation when she stated that , ” the greatest potential of Africa lies above the ground. It is NOT in the ground.” Ms. Masters was simply referring to the intellectual capacity of African people and how as a continent, the mindset of the people and the rich ideas of Africans are worth more than all the diamonds and minerals that can be found in the grounds of Africa. Upon finishing her speech, the contestants displayed their African wear and then Arik Airlines and Western Union were recognized for their sponsorship of the event. After thanking some of the sponsors, the talent competition began.
Talent Competition: Many of the contestants chose to perform a “spoken word”. Miss Angola recited the a poem entitled , “ We Shall Return”; Miss Cameroon, who looked stun-
November
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ning in a black and gold ensemble, recited a poem about a black woman who won a court case; Miss Cape Verde gave a breath taking version of Maya Angelou’s “Still I Rise” poem; Miss Congo recited a very beautiful ,striking, poem about Africa, which personified Africa in a glorious light. This recital was definitely one of the most moving talents within the talent competition. The poem included the following lines: “Africa is my mother. She raised me. She told me I was a voice. Africa is my daughter I want to protect. I want the best for her future and her children’s children. My words will be hers. I will teach her and her friends. Africa is me, standing in front of you. Diamonds on her dress. Golden is her brain. She is full of resources. I call her a realistic achiever”.
Miss Ethiopia performed a dance; Miss Gabon performed a very theatrical piece which was quite dramatic even though it was in a foreign language; Miss Ghana took the stage and performed a monologue stating, “ yes you laugh because of my skin, because I’m from Africa, because you want to break me, put me down, but I’m going to have the last laugh”, and then she started performing the very popular Azonto dance; Miss Guinea gave a riveting speech about torture and domestic abuse; Miss Kenya definitely had the most entertaining talent – a hula hoop dance. Defying gravity, Miss Kenya danced with a hula hoop, spinning it around her arms, legs, and body, without missing a beat. If hula hoop dancing was an event in the Olympics, she definitely would have won the Gold because her performance was unique and precise. Miss Liberia followed Miss Kenya with her own unique performance, a spoken word about strength. Physically, Miss Liberia was a bit shorter than the other contestants, but her stage presence was mighty and powerful and her strong spoken word dialogue was unforgettable. Miss Nigeria performed a “knock knock” poem; Miss Sierra Leone performed a spoken word about Africa; Miss Somalia performed a spoken word; Miss Tanzania performed the poem “ Phenomenal Woman”; and Miss Uganda sang the only song in the talent competition, singing “When You Believe”.
After the talent show, the DJ played some music and the ballroom turned into a dance party intercession. Everyone from Miss America 2010, to the judges, to the audience, was dancing. It was a nice little break, which led into the announcement of the Top 10 finalists.
Top Ten Finalists: In no specific order, the following contestants were selected for the Top 10: Nigeria, Cameroon, and.. this is where the story gets more interesting. God bless Ms. Cameron, but she, like many other non-Africans, had a hard time pronouncing the word ”Guinea” , and therefore her “Guinea” sounded like “Ghana” and vice versa. When she announced the third contestant , she said what sounded like “Ghana” so Miss Ghana stepped forward. However, right after Miss Ghana stepped forward with excitement, she was forced to humbly step back into the line-up because it was discovered that Ms. Cameron was saying “Guinea” and not “Ghana”. It was a HUGE mistake , which could have and should have been avoided by the organizers because after all, Miss Ghana DID make it to the top 10. When the organizers realized that Miss Ghana had been called up, they should have just left it alone, because after all, they knew that Ghana was part of the top ten anyways, so why make a correction—just simply say Guinea later on, right? Right. After Miss Guinea replaced Miss Ghana as the third contestant called up, in no specific order, the remaining 7 contestants picked for the Top Ten were: Miss Congo, Miss Liberia, Miss Kenya, Miss Ethiopia, Miss Cape Verde, Miss Sierra Leone, and Miss Ghana. After the top ten contestants paraded their outfits on the stage and Ms. Cameron sang an abbreviated version of the song “I believe” , the Top 5 contestants were announced. The Top 5 contestants were announced in the following order: Miss Liberia, Miss Nigeria, Miss Cameroon, Miss Ghana, and Miss Guinea. Once the Top 5 contestants were announced, it was time for the
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question and answer session.
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Question 1: What is the one misconception of African Culture and how would you change it? Miss Liberia answered this question and referred it a bit to the topics she had discussed in her talent, discussing the misconceptions that Africans are not smart enough, can not get into the best schools, etc. She stated that the best way to change misconceptions was to educate people and equip them with knowledge.
Question 2: Who is the most influential African person and what would you say to that person? Miss Nigeria simply replied that her mother is the most influential African person in her eyes because her mother supported her during her Miss Africa USA journey.
Question 3: Why should you be selected queen and what would be your legacy? Miss Cameroon replied that she is interested in working with Somalia on their drought issues and that she wants to help the hungry. She also stated that if she won, the crown would not simply belong to her , it would belong to all of Africa, she wants to help the whole country of Africa ( nervousness caused her to refer to Africa as a country, rather than a continent, but the audience yelled out “ continent” and she quickly fixed the error).
Question 4: If you had 5 minutes with the President of Ghana, what would you say? Miss Ghana replied that she would like the President of Ghana to help her form partnerships with schools in Africa and assist her by supporting the Bright Foundation, which gives materials to kids in Africa.
Question 5: If you had a million dollars to donate to a platform, what would you do? Miss Guinea replied that she would create the first domestic abuse shelter in Africa. After the question and answer session, the contestants stood on the stage for one last moment in the spotlight before the announcement of the winner. While the audience waited for the judges to complete their tabulations, the audience was entertained by Fif Wilson, who sang his smash hit, “ You were my Girl”. Fifi Soumah , the current Miss Africa USA, walked across the stage for the last time as the reigning Miss Africa USA, and then individual awards were presented to the girls. Miss Congeniality was won by Miss Somalia; Miss Cultural Ambassador was awarded to Miss Liberia; Miss Goodwill was awarded to Miss Ghana; Miss Modeling was awarded to Miss Cape Verde; Miss Photogenic was awarded to Miss Ethiopia; Miss Spokesman was awarded to Miss Congo; and the People’s Choice award was awarded to Miss Kenya.
A little after midnight, the judges were ready to announce the grand winner of the Miss Africa USA pageant. 4th runner up was awarded to Miss Ghana; 3rd runner up was awarded to Miss Nigeria; 2nd Runner up was awarded to Miss Guinea; and first runner up was awarded to Miss Liberia. The Miss Africa USA pageant crown was awarded to Miss Cameroon, Ghyslaine Tchouaga. By Amy Ansong
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The Great Restoration.
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polygamy: marriage to more than one spouse at a time. Children born to several different women can bring about unnecessary competition and mistrust in the home; especially if those with pronounced gifts and talents are singled out for affection and care. It breeds envy and insecurity in the neglected ones. The spirit of envy is a bedfellow of hatred. And it's deadly. It can break up even closely knit families and ruin talents, more so if the insecure children fall into bad companies. Avoid that, stick to one woman.
In the field alone with Joseph, his older siblings green with envy, planned and took away his covering, his glory; the coat of many colors his father made for him, the only tangible of his fathers love. He lost it and Rev. Kwabby Adom-Fosu reminder descended into years of servitude in a foreign Tel: 703-498-5133 land. But God’s plan for his life was on "For indeed I was stolen away out of the land course. He resigned to fate. The prince and heir to the Abrahamic estate found himself in of the Hebrews: and here also have I done nothing that they should put the service of an Egyptian general by name Potiphar. He did not give up. By dent of hard me into the dungeon.” work and the favor of God, he rebuilt the (Gen. 40:15) glory. Taking inspiration from the Eternal Voice that spoke to his spirit man even before The guy was desperate. That was Joseph he had the wisdom to understand. He was tried pleading for his freedom from an Egyptian prison. He tried to tell his story to whoever he in the furnace of affliction but never found reasoned could influence the powers that be to wanting; (Is. 48:10; Ps 105: 19; Mal. 3; 3) He passed. let him breathe the air of freedom. It was not his fault, for twice this man of character and wisdom lost his covering; his glory. Joseph had been born to his daddy (Jacob) in his old age, by his beloved wife, Rachel; the girl whom Jacob had served 14 years in order to win her hand in marriage. Jacob pampered Joseph. And had singled him out for affection and love. He had a coat of many colors made for him. This did not sit well with his brothers, they hated him for that. Unlike Mary -the mother of Jesus -- who kept her angelic visitations to herself, Joseph amplified the hatred by blabbing about his God-given dreams to his brothers. He told them how he would one day become their leader and they would all worship him. They made up their minds to kill the dream. Be reminded, keep your secrets secret.
The realization of every dream is two dimensional: physical and spiritual. Dreams first form in the spirit realm before they manifest in the physical. If the enemy tries in the spirit realm and fails he turns onto the physical. So be admonished, do not fight physical battles. Launch a divine offensive and fight spiritual battles; do not miss prayer gatherings and your efforts will be met with success. In Joseph's case the enemy first attacked his dream in the physical realm using his brothers. When he failed he launched another one in the spirit realm, using Potiphar's wife, again he failed. Why? Joseph did not break God's moral law; as a result His Presence did not leave him.
The jealous spirit of Joseph's siblings became wounded and restless, when they thought about his dream of becoming their leader. As a result they conspired to kill him so as to abort the dream. . This brings into sharp focus the evil effects of
His master’s wife full of lust cast her adulterous eyes on him. Her desire for him became an obsession. Once again the dream killer was at work; the old serpent raised his ugly head but Joseph resisted. A post-modern young man would probably have jumped on it. After all she offered. But he said “how can I do this wickedness and sin against God” (Gen. 39:9). The guy had the courage of his convictions; he said he will not sin against God. Taking cognizance of the fact that God is the final arbiter, He alone enthrones and dethrones. He decides the destiny of nations and people everywhere. Not ready to let the adulterous woman deny his destiny or defer his hope he controlled his emotions. He resisted. For the second time he lost his covering, his glory. This time a self made one.
Portiphar’s wife ripped-off his garment (Gen. 39:12) as evidence that Joseph had wanted to rape her and she lied through her teeth that she had screamed him away .Though Mrs. Potiphar lied, she gave the blue print for resisting rape: if your life is not in immediate danger, shout for help. This can prove that you are not a willing accomplice.
Joseph cared about his character. Character is the foundation of a life well lived. Character is not only shaped by crisis it is revealed in crisis. Joseph's character was revealed in this crisis. Character is a product of good choices.
With an excellent sense of judgment, Joseph rejected Mrs. Portiphar’s offer and it cost him his freedom. He descended into the pit of shame and reproach. Though he was not tried in any court of law, he went to prison on rape charges. Think about it, in this day and age Joseph would have been on the sex offender’s registry and responsible parents would have
steered away from his neighborhood. Yes, his reputation was in tatters, but his character was intact and God had a plan. He was preparing the young guy for a higher office. In the school of affliction he developed the two most important traits for leadership: judgment and character, which are often times developed in the valley not on the mountain top. Character is paramount; your giftings can take you where your character cannot. But it will take character to maintain the height your giftings take you. The giftings without character is a recipe for self destruct. That is why God takes time to prepare his servants. Daniel, Moses, David among others went through the crucible before God found them fit for His service. According to Dr. Myles Monroe, the quality of tomorrow’s leaders is determined by the character of today’s followers. Republican presidential aspirant, Herman Cain may not deny this assertion.
Educational Opportunities November 2011
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1. Wake Forest University has an opportunity for minority students to attend its MBA program for FREE, and so far, the response has been very poor. Please pass along this opportunity to your friends, families. This is a great school and a tremendous opportunity to attend a top graduate school. See the details below, the contact person is: Derrick S. Boone, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Marketing, Rm. 3139 Worrell Professional Center, Babcock Graduate School of Management - Wake Forest University_ WINSTON_SALEM N.C 27109-8738 email:derrick.boone@mba.wfu.edu or visit www.wfu.edu <http://www.wfu.edu/> phone# toll free (866) 925-3622
2. Black Male Teachers needed. Do you know any Black Males who are seniors in high school who want to go to college out of state for FREE? The Joseph in prison had the favor of God, yet he had CALL ME MISTER program offered by 4 historithe prison suit on. He provided leadership still he had the garment of shame on. You might be tempt- cally black colleges in South Carolina, Benedict ed to think your situation cannot get the attention of College, Chaflin University, Morris College, and South Carolina State University - visit the God. It can, so do not give up. Your issue is not www.callmemister.clemson.edu/index.htl beyond the sovereignty of God. For, He, God, can <http://www.callmemister.clemson.edu/index.htl> use reverses in life to move you forward (Roman 8:28). Joseph was sent to prison to be introduced to details online application or call 1.800.640.2657 friends in high places. 3. Harvard University is offering free tuition to famThe minister – the Cup Bearer – Joseph befriended ilies of HONOR STUDENTS whose income is less in prison became his advocate at the right time than $125,000 per year. Visit when Pharaoh had a dream that needed interpretawww.fao.fas.harvard.edc or call 617.495.1581. tion. Then he remembered the young guy with exceptional insight and understanding into the 4. Syracuse University School of Architecture is visions and oracles of God. The young guy was desperately seeking young women and men of color summoned before the King. He put away the prison interested in pursuing a 5 yr. professional degree in clothes – the garment of shame. His long preparaArchitecture. Contact: Mark Robbins, Dean School tion was coming to a climax. For 13 years he had of Architecture, 201 Slocum Hall, Syracuse , NY lived in the backwaters of Egypt as a slave and a 13244-1250 (315) 443-256 prisoner, in leadership training. Waiting for his day www.soa.syr.edu/indes.php of favor. Favor is when preparation meets opportu- <http://www.soa.syr.edu/indes.php> nity. Yes, one day of favor is better than a lifetime of labor. Joseph had gone through trials and tribula- 5. A free pair of eyeglasses from Target for any tions. But his day of favor did come. child ages 12 and under brings a valid prescription for glasses from their doctor. You can find stores In life it does not matter what you go through, but with optical departments atwww.target.com how you go through it. Like the Lord Jesus, Who for the glory set before Him endured the cross 6. APPLY NOW - If you have/know young adults despising the shame, and as a result has been given between the ages of 18-31 with a High School a Name above every name. (Heb. 12:2; Phil 2:9Diploma. Can earn up to $100,000 and earn bene11). If you let what you are going to; your target, fits. The Federal Aviation Association is taking your goal be in clear focus, you will be fine. What application for Air Traffic Controller School visit you are going to; destination, matters more than the website www.faa.gov/jobs_opportunities/airtrafwhat you are going through, the journey. ficcontroller/ <http://www.faa.gov/jobs_opportunities/airtrafficcontroller/> Joseph was rewarded for his wisdom and understanding. Your gift can make room for you and bring you before great men (Prov. 18:16).Whatever giftings God has freely given you, develop them for they could set you on the path to greatness. After Joseph had solved Pharaoh’s mystery, he exchanged the prison garment -- the garment of shame -- for the kingly garment of Pharaoh's fine linen; the garment of glory. He stepped into the office of the Prime Minister of Egypt. It lasted Joseph’s lifetime. Nobody took it away from him. Character also makes possible longevity of service/ministry. Think about it.
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Culture and Arts - Profiles
November 2011
“Acting in Hollywood is my Ultimate Goal” -Mr. Beautiful the 2010 Ghana Movie Awards.
AP:Have you done any English movies? MB:My only English movie is Black Man White Brother. That movie opened a lot of doors for me because it was through that movie that people got to know that I can speak good English. I played a lead role with veteran George Williams, Doris Sackitey, and Kofi Bucknor in the movie.
AP:Have you won any awards? MB:I won the Best Actor in a supporting role award at the 2010 Ghana Movie Awards for my role in Ama Ghana.
Clement Bonney AKA Mr. Beautiful
These days a number of of Ghanaian actors and actresses have expressed their desire in breaking into the Hollywood film industry, and achieving mainstream success. The flood gates have now been opened for most of these actors to secure visas to the United States to take up roles in movies and perform as well. The publisher of the Afrikan Post caught up with Mr. Clement Bonney (Mr. Beautiful) , Kwaku Manu and Rose Mensah (Kyeiwaaa) who were on a working visit to the United States and Canada and spent sometime them. Clemnt bonney and Kwaku Manu opened up to Afrikan Post for a one on one interview . Kyeiwaa could not make it since she was in Maryland at the time of the interview. We hereby bring to our readers the interviews with Mr. Bonney and Kwaku manu conducted in Woodbridge , Virginia.
AP:How did you feel after you won the award? MB:I felt great because it gave me the feeling that my talent is being appreciated and it inspired me to have the confidence to carry on as a good actor.
AP:Which producers do you normally work with? MB:It has mostly been George Walker and Jones Agyeman who are based in Accra. I have not done more than 10 movies in Kumasi. AP:Who manages you ? MB:I have no manager. I manage myself and if I have any issue beyond my comprehension I consult my lawyer.
AP:Have you done any movies outside Ghana? MB:Not yet, but acting in Hollywood is my ultimate goal.
AP:Have you had any offers from producers outside Ghana? MB:Yes I have, My colleagues and I would be shooting a movie in Virginia before our departure. AP:Are you related to George Laing (Kohwe) ? MB:No. A lot of people ask me this question but I have known Kohwe for a very long time since he has been my Dad’s best friend for over forty years.
AP :What is your real name and why the name Mr. Beautiful? MB :My real name is Clement Amponfi Bonney. I earned the name “Mr. Beautiful” because of my use of the word beautiful to show appreciation. I use the word to describe every good situa- AP:Which Ghanaian actor inspires you ? MB: The late Bob Cole is someone I have always looked up to tion.
AP: How and why did you get into acting ? MB:I started acting at a very tender age at Abura Dunkwa. I was in a drama group and most often we performed at the Annual Harvest of the Methodist Church. I also became a cultural group leader in the town. I was a hustler in life travelling around doing “galamsay” until God unveiled my real talent. I joined Abusua Payin Judas and the late Bob Santo to perform in the Key soap sponsored concert party in Accra. After the death of Bob Santo I became the leader of the group Christ for all Mission concert. An advertising agency in Accra by the name “Facets” engaged my services to do radio commercials. I did some of the award winning radio commercials for Frytol and Key soap. I recorded an advert for a company called Kinapharma on a drug called APC. After I presented it to the marketing manager he decided we should rather turn it into a television commercial. At that time the most popular commercial on TV was “Pioneer Nails”. When the Kinapharma APC commercial went on air, it took over “Pioneer Nails” and has become the longest running commercial on Ghana television today. Because of the name I had made through my days with the Key soap concert party, one actor called Augustine Abbey (Idikoko) approached me and decided to pair me with Agya Koo to do a movie titled Ghana Dollar. After we shot that movie, Samuel Nyamekye, another producer, also gave me a role in a movie titled Sika Anibre. These two movies brought me to the limelight and I earned the name “Mr. Beautiful”. I have since done many movies including Osofo amanehunu, Kokonsa, Kanka Nyame, Agartha, Ama Bonus, Otoo Tabaa , Osofo Maame, and Ama Ghana, which won three awards at
AP:Why do you choose to speak Fante in the Twi movies , it appears you speak Twi very well.? MB: I believe in maintaining my indigenous language even though I speak Twi very well. I want Ghanaians to remember my Fanti predecessors like Agya Ntow, Bob Cole, Araba Stamp, Water Proof and co and know that I am continuing from where they let off.
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AP:Where do you want to see yourself in the next five years? MB:I want to see myself acting in Hollywood. I want to be the first Ghanaian to receive an Academy Award in the United States.
AP:Are there any personalities you want to appreciate at this time? MB: I do appreciate Amandzeba Nat Brew and his brother Yoofi Brew very much. They have shown me so much love. They coached me on how to speak appropriately, they taught me discipline and I have learned a lot from them. They are like external eyes to me. They watch over me, advise me, and protect me. I thank God that through acting I have met a lot of important personalities like former President Kuffour, President Mills, ACP Kofi Boakye, and many others. Rev. Owusu Bempah and Salifu Amonako have been my spiritual advisors. I am very grateful to all Ghanaians at home and abroad for all the love and support. I would like to urge them to buy original movies.They should not believe in the negative publicity about us. With their support we can continue to give them the best of entertainment. I am also grateful to Mr. David, Nancy, Miss Elizabeth and Kofi Mends at the American Embassy in Ghana for all their support and the opportunity given to me. Last but not least, my appreciation goes to Mr. and Mrs. Gyenin of Woodbridge who hosted us in Virginia. My gratitude also goes to Aburi Gardens Restaurant, Hair Wig and Braiding Shop, Kumasi Supermarket, Ghanaman African Store, Woodbridge International Market, Divine Word International Ministry, and all the workers at Auntie Bee’s braiding shop in Woodbridge.
Afrikan Post Interview With Kwaku Manu
It is believed that Kwaku Manu a budding and funny comedian, actor and rapper would very soon take Agya Koo’s crown as most sought after Ghanaian actor. In this interview he speaks candidly with the Afrikan Post.
from infancy.
AP:On a personal note, do you have any children and a wife? MB:I am currently single but I have children. I am seeking the face of God before I get married.
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Kwaku Manu
AP: Why do you choose to use your real name Kwaku Manu in all your movies? KM: One movie producer and Director, Jones Agyeman decided to have me keep my real name in all movies I do with him.
AP: What part of Ghana do you come from? AP:Who are your favorite acting partners? KM: My mother is from Aduane Yede and my Dad is from New MB:Agya koo, Akrobeto, Kwaku Manu, Nana Ama Mc Brown, and Edubiase both in the Adansi district of Ashanti region of Ghana. my very special Vivian Jill Lawrence. AP:Why is Vivian so special to you? MB:She is someone I have very good chemistry with when we are paired in movies. We understand each other so well. AP: Do you have any other talent apart from acting? MB: Oh yes, I sing very well and have recorded my own yet to be released album with a live band. It will be available on YouTube very soon. I am a very serious musician.
AP:What brings you to the United States ? MB:Nana Boroo a musician , Kwaku Manu, and I have been invited to perform in Canada but one Ashanti Chief based in New York asked us to stop over in the United States before we continue the trip to Canada.
AP: Tell me about yourself, How and why did you get into acting? KM: I started school at New Edubiase. My father was in his shoes business and I assisted him whilst going to school. We used to make shoes. I continued my education at the SDA School at Obuasi and after completing basic education my father sent me to Kumasi to learn a trade. Whilst working as a welding apprentice in Kumasi I watched Ghanaian movies and was so interested in acting. All I wanted to do was act in movies so I decided register as an actor and Jones Agyeman saw that I had the talent and decided to use me.
AP: Did you quit your Apprenticeship to go into acting? KM: I left at a time I was a Chief apprentice and could work on my own. Continued on Pg. 35
AP: H KM: I start Agye ing.
AP: W into t KM: hit in that I includ Bonsa woho
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AP: W addit KM: own a Ghan have Ghan
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AP: A KM: Y we ar
AP: I fans i KM: from love a strong becau part o me an whole my ap wife o Maa L in Gh Virgin Osei M Pasto and fi Ghan END
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Ghanaian Actors, Mr Beautiful, Kwaku Manu, Kyeiwaa and Mercy Asiedu in the Community
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Interview with Kwaku Manu continued from page 34
AP: How long have you been acting? KM: I have been acting for the past eight years. I started as a production assistant with Jones Agyeman for a little while before I started acting.
AP: Which movie do you think brought you into the limelight? KM: It was “Aware so” That movie became a hit in Ghana. I have since done many movies that I have even lost count. Some of them include Eda Wanim, Village Champion, Kwaku Bonsam, Pastor Ataa Ayi, Ka asempa pa fa woho, and Obinim Ebenezer.
AP: Who are some of your favorite acting partners? KM: Akrobeto, Mr. Beautiful, Apostle Prah, Kyeiwaa and Nkansah.
The Mr. Beautiful and Kwaku Manu with the proprietors of Aburi Gardens restaurant in Woodbridge
With Sister Matilda of Ghanaman International Market
AP: What is your favorite role? KM: I enjoy playing the role of a young boy because it enables me to show off and exercise strong character. AP: Who is your role model? KM: The only person I have always looked to is Charlie Chaplin.
AP: Which other talent do you posses in addition to acting? KM: I am a musician and have recorded my own album that was released and launched in Ghana before I came to the United States. I have a lot of music videos on youtube and Ghanamusic.com.
AP: Can you mention some of the places you have performed? KM: I have in the past performed at the Ashanti Goldfield Club at Obuasi, University of Science and Technology campus and recently I performed at the 10th anniversary of the New Ghanaian newspaper in Virginia.
Derek and Esther host the stars at Hair Wig and Braiding Shop
AP: Are you married? KM: Yes. The name of my wife is Okaale and we are blessed with one daughter Maame Vida.
AP: Is there anything you want to tell your fans in the United States? KM: I really appreciate the outpouring of love from Ghanaians in the community. I can tell the love and unity amongst Ghanaians is very strong. I will come back again and again because of how much I feel appreciated in this part of the world. This has really encouraged me and I want to entertain Ghanaians and the whole world at large. I would like to express my appreciation to Nana Amponsah and his wife of New York, Bismark, David , Nancy Maa Lizzy and Kofi Mends at the US Embassy in Ghana, Mr and Mrs Genin of Woodbridge , Virginia. I am also very grateful to Maa Vida Osei Mensah, Pastors Kofi Abedi, Fifi , all Pastors and members of the Bethel Ministry and finally to “Sweet mother and husband in Ghana.
END
Kyeiwaa, Mr. Beautiful and Kwaku Manu spent time at the Kumasi Super Market taking pictures with fans
A visit to the Woodbridge International Market
Mr Beautiful,Rose Mensah, Mercy Asiedu and Kwaku Manu during worship time at the Divine Word Ministry in Virginia
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Star Actor Chinedu Kate Henshaw Nuttal and Nia Long And Ikedieze Weds in British husband Roderick James Ime Udoka, Style Nuttal part ways amicably Boyfriend And Basketball Star, Gives Birth To Son Kez Sunday Udoka November 2011
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ments,Rod,also in his 40s,is the Managing Director of Ledrop Nigeria Ltd(agents for Jack Daniels and Piper Hiedsieck champagne) constantly travels.
It was indeed the day the Lord hath made - Saturday, 26th November 2011, as family, friends and well-wishers came together for the elaborate wedding of star actor, Chinedu Ikedieze (MFR) a.k.a Aki and Nneoma Hope Nwajah. The traditional marriage was held at the St.Theresa’s Catholic Church Primary School field, Obolo, Isiala Mbano, Imo State. The event attracted dignitaries from all walks of life including entertainers and politicos - National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, (AGN) Segun Arinze, Uche jombo, Oby Edozien, Ejike Asiegbu, Osita Iheme (Pawpaw) among others. The white wedding already dubbed, “a celebration of true and undying love” by the actor will hold elaborately in Lagos on December 10. Congratulations to the family! Source: nigeriafilms.com
Star actress Kate Henshaw Nuttal,and her better half of 12 years, Roderick James Nuttal are no longer together!
The award-winning Nigerian actress and her British husband parted ways amicably a few months back following ‘irreconcilable differences”.
Those who know the actress and her beau claimed the separation was not bitter at all-and now they live apart(though in the same area of town in Lagos,the Lekki axis).
Since both are hardly together to savour companionship,their relationship suffered strains-and after looking at the situation,they first decided to try separation and see if they could later patch things up.But they didn’s succeed.
But at this time,both had agreed to move on for the sake of their daughter and in loving memory of their 12year union.
And soon,they will be heading to the courts to formalize their separation.We gathered that Kate and Rod are talking to lawyers and in no time,the divorce suit,which many close friends and associates expect to be amicable will begin.
When we called the actress,she Blessed with a daughter, Ella who’s now 11,the refused to make elaborate comments couple’s lifestyles made it impossible for them on her husband and her marriage. to enjoy marital bliss.While Kate,now 40,is a very busy actress,moving from one location to Source: www.onlinenigeria.com another(across the country and sometimes abroad),and honouring endorsement engage-
Sierra Leonean gospel singer Giileh Scholz to perform on one of America’s top ranking Gospel television shows, BET “Bobby Jones Gospel” show. Massachusetts night skies held nothing but sunshine this Saturday for Giileh Scholz whose dream for securing a niche in the mainstream American Gospel industry got closer to reality with the invitation to perform on one of America’s top ranking Gospel television shows, BET “Bobby Jones Gospel” The vivacious Sierra Leonean Gospel singer and founder of the Sierra Leone Association of Artists and Musicians (SLAAM) will be making history as the first Sierra Leonean Gospel artist to garner such a massive media exposure as she sings in front of millions of American TV viewers in her debut appearance at the widely acclaimed “Bobby Jones Gospel” show, a show that has consistently ranked within the “Top 5” of overall BET weekly programming since 1980. The invitation to appear on the show was relayed to the singer after her exceptional performance at a gospel benefit event, held on Saturday November 19th, at the Berklee Performance Center in Boston, Massachusetts hosted by Gramm
Award-winning Gospel singer, Dr. Bobby Jones. The benefit event titled “Saving the health of the
It's another boy for Nia Long!
The 41-year-old actress gave birth to son Kez Sunday Udoka on Sunday, her rep confirms to the Associated Press. Kez is the first child for the Soul Food actress and Ime Udoka. Long also has a 10-year-old son, Massai, from a previous relationship.
Her spokeswoman said that "both mother and child are healthy and happy to be home."
In June, Long revealed that her second pregnancy was completely unplanned. "I was supposed to go to Ghana to do a film and that's when I found out I was pregnant," she told reporters at the BET Awards. "I had a doctor's appointment to get the yellow fever shot and they were like, 'Miss Long, we can't give you a shot.'"
community, International Gospel Benefit Concert” was sponsored by Whittier Street Health Center (Whittier) a Joint Commission accredited, non-profOnce doctors informed Long that she was it, community health center based in Boston, expecting, "I almost fainted. It was the best Massachusetts that is headed by Sierra Leonean moment and the sweetest surprise ever." born, Frederica M. Williams, the organization’s President and CEO.
Dr. Bobby Jones is an icon in the American Gospel Source: http://news2.onlinenigeria.com industry. He is the executive producer of several television Gospel shows including BET’s “Bobby Jones Gospel” and the Gospel Music Channel’s “Bobby Jones’ Next Generation”. We congratulate Giileh on her accomplishment and readers will be informed on the date and time of her scheduled appearance on BET. Monica Hebron
http://www.cocorioko.net
Nia Long
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African Post
West African Medical Center Fundraising Dance Extravaganza
tine in many other places in the world. West African Medical Center said, on behalf of By: SEM on November 21, 2011. Without this, these practitioners have been The West African Medical Center, a nonprofit organi- Dr. Herry, CEO of Global Health Services laboring with a severe handicap. No matter Foundation and Director of Operations in Sierra zation established in the United States and sponsored how competent and dedicated they may be, Leone, Dr. Sidikie Bangura, thanked His by Global Health Foundation whose mission is to without these services they practice their Excellencies, members of the diplomatic core, colestablish a medical center in Sierra Leone, held its first craft in the dark with no knowledge of the leagues, medical providers, comrades, youths, disannual fundraising dance on November 18, 2011 at the unseen nature of many of the maladies and tinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen for Days Inn Hotel at New York Avenue in Washington, injuries confronting them day by day, hour responding to the invitation and he extends his DC. Gracing the occasion were His Excellency by hour, even moment by moment. hearty welcome to all to this august gathering. He Bockarie Stephens, Ambassador of Sierra Leone in said, we are blessed that our experience, knowlWashington DC, Deputy Ambassador of Sierra Leone, When the Diagnostic Health Care Center edge, and dedication to our countries, our region, Ibrahim Conteh and Deputy Ambassador to Sierra becomes operational – God willing within a and the world has borne much good fruit. But it Leone Mission in New York Mrs. Rasie Timbo-Kargbo year, the quality of health care in Sierra is time for it to bear a new kind of fruit. To bear Leone and the West African region will fruit in dealing with our health care crisis. To begin to improve almost immediately in the bear fruit in dealing with this crisis that has resulted in the needless suffering of our people, and that positive resolution of many medical emergencies, the more successful treatment of has hobbled our economic development. chronic ailments, and the improvement of the health of mothers and young children.
This is a bold project, a long overdue project, a crucial project for all of our people. Tonight we ask that you give your moral, physical, and financial support to speed up its progress. I leave you with this encouraging statement from Mark Twain:
(Photo: Dr. Augustine A. Kamara, Deputy Director)
The fundraising program commenced with the display of artistic songs by Soulja Twin who rendered melodious rap songs followed by King M.B. Attila and Lady Felecia, King of Sierra Leone Soul Music who moved Ambassadors of Sierra Leone in the USA the audience with fantastic and heart rending melodi“I do not intend to bore you with a long speech”, ous Sierra Leoneans songs. Contributing to the display of melodious songs also were Giileh and Jaycool. Dr. Kamara said because you all know why we are here – to raise funds for the projected West African Medical Center to be established inSierra The MC for the fundraising program was Aminata Leone. The medical facilities inSierra Leoneand Johnson and former broadcaster and comedian Saidu neighboring countries are poor. But looking at the Kabbah. Mr. Saidu Kabbah entertained the audience statistics, over fifty percent of those of us in the with a lot of comical vibes about the Sierra Leonean Sierra Leonean Diaspora are medical providers. culture in the United States that made the audience Ladies and gentlemen, brothers and sisters – the laugh out their lungs. He also urged the audience to means to lift up the health of our people and our give their unflinching support to the West African nations is in our hands. Medical Center because the West African Medical Center will not only cater to the health needs of Sierra Leoneans but will boost the transportation industry in What are we waiting for then? As President Sierra Leone by encouraging other nationals to fly to Kennedy said a long ago – “we need to ask NOT what our countries can do for us, but what WE Sierra Leone on weekly basis to seek medical treatcan do for our countries.” This is the answer. ment. Besides boosting the transportation industry, This is the orientation. This is the belief in ourMr. Saidu Kabbah said, with the establishment of the selves and our ability to take real control of our West African Medical Center, the rate of unemploylives, our providential destiny that is to become ment will be minimized. the real engine of our victory. Let us then face the Giving his opening remarks, Dr. Augustine A. Kamara, Deputy Director of Operations in Sierra Leone for the challenge and do what is needed. Our hopes and desires – yes, and our expectations – should not be depressed, but completely optimistic. “We can do this. Yes, we can.”
Crowd Dancing to Lady Felecia Melodious Songs
Our inaugural project in the development of the West African Medical Center is the Diagnostic Health Care Center. We and other medical professionals inSierra Leonesee this as the first step in meeting the region’s medical emergency. It is a vital part of the foundation of the West African Medical Center that will be a key part of the coming health care transformation of the nation and region. It will meet the urgent needs of medical practitioners inSierra Leoneand neighboring countries for diagnostic services that have become rou-
“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you did not do than by the one you did do. So throw off the bow lines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade wind in your sails. Explore! Dream! Discover!
Indeed, it was a remarkable and fun-loving fundraising program that sent attendees dancing to their heels with fantastic melodious music rendered by D.J. Alhaji Sulaiman Kamara. In her closing remarks, Nenebah Jalloh, thanked officials of the West African Medical Center for such a great vision forSierra Leone, she said, it doesn’t matter the number of attendees but the quality of people represented in the fundraising program and prays the great vision forSierra Leonecomes to reality. The program was terminated at approximately 3:00 AM.
By Joseph Sherman and Dr. Augustine Kamara WAMC
November 2011
Page 38
Sierra Leone – Maada Bio selects Kadie Sesay as SLPP running mate
Flagbearer of the main opposition Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) yesterday made a dramatic announcement on the radio airwaves with regards the hotly debated running mate issue.
Julius Maada Bio named Kadie Sesay, one of the defeated flagbearer aspirants of the SLPP, as the party’s running mate for the 2012 presidential election.
Newsmen and other stakeholders were earlier informed yesterday that Maada Bio would be formally announcing his running mate today at an occasion to be held in the north of the country, Port Loko to be precise. The announcement on the radio airwaves therefore took people by surprise, and the debate as to the merit and demerit of the appointment of Kadie Sesay is already in top gear.
Sierra Express gathered yesterday from credible sources close to the party’s hierarchy that the decision of Maada to appoint Kadie Sesay was not in consonance with the advice of a certain section of the party’s national executive, which had strongly advocated that Usman Boie Kamara be appointed as the party’s running mate because of obvious reasons. But according to sources, Maada Bio frowned at that advice and decided to appoint his favourite.
The decision of Maada Bio is seemingly the final straw that has broken the camel’s back, if the disgruntlement that was exhibited yesterday by core members of the party is anything to go by.
Several party stalwarts yesterday told this press that they were going to tender their resignation from the party in protest over the decision of Maada Bio.
Meanwhile, Maada Bio and his crew hold the view that the decision of Maada was very decisive. Source: http://www.sierraexpressmedia.com
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2012 Africa Cup of Nations
The 2012 Africa Cup of Nations will be the 28th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, the football championship of Africa organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). It will be co-hosted by Gabon and Equatorial Guinea. The two countries won the right to host the tournament after defeating a Nigerian bid along with two other bid winning nations, Angola and Libya. Bids from Mozambique, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Senegal were rejected. For the first time in CAF history, the hosts of three successive tournaments were chosen at the same time; Angola was chosen to host in 2010, Gabon/Equatorial Guinea were chosen as hosts for the 2012 cup and Libya for the 2013 edition. Nigeria was chosen as a stand-by host in the event that one of the chosen nations were to become unsuitable.
From the calendar, Group "A" teams will based in Bata; Group "B" - Malabo, Group "C "Libreville and Group "D" - Franceville.
Africa Cup of Nations 2012 Groups
Group A: Equatorial Guinea, Libya, Senegal, Zambia
Group B: Cote d'Ivoire, Sudan, Burkina Faso, Angola Group C: Gabon, Niger, Morocco. Tunisia
Group D: Ghana, Botswana, Mali, Guinea
A Brief History Of The African Cup Of Nations
In 1956 in Lisbon a meeting between seven delegates resulted in the formation of the Confederation of African Football and the organisation planned the first tournament for the following year in Khartoum.
However, as the start date drew near, there were a few hurdles to overcome, such as the exclusion of South Africa after the apartheid regime failed to approve a multi-racial team. So with South Africa out, the tournment came down to a playoff between just three teams Egypt, hosts Sudan and Ethiopia.
Egypt, Sudan and Ethiopia played the first two tournaments in odd years before it increased to four, six, eight, 12 and then 16 teams.
Since the early days, North Africa - and Ghana in particular - has maintained its reputation, while the other pioneers Ethiopia and Sudan have deteriorated. And while there have been many highlights, few African Nations Cup tournaments have taken place without any problems.
One thing is certain, though - that Caf and the Nations Cup is still in existence is due to the passion for the game on the African continent.
21 January 2012 21 January 2012 25 January 2012 25 January 2012 29 January 2012 29 January 2012 22 January 2012 22 January 2012 26 January 2012 26 January 2012 30 January 2012 30 January 2012 23 January 2012 23 January 2012 27 January 2012 27 January 2012 31 January 2012 31 January 2012 24 January 2012 24 January 2012 28 January 2012 28 January 2012 1 February 2012 1 February 2012
Equatorial Guinea Senegal Libya Equatorial Guinea Equatorial Guinea Libya C么te d'Ivoire Burkina Faso Sudan C么te d'Ivoire Sudan C么te d'Ivoire Gabon Morocco Niger Gabon Gabon Niger Ghana Mali Botswana Ghana Botswana Ghana
November 2011
Afrikan Post
v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v
Libya Zambia Zambia Senegal Zambia Senegal Sudan Angola Angola Burkina Faso Burkina Faso Angola Niger Tunisia Tunisia Morocco Tunisia Morocco Botswana Guinea Guinea Mali Mali Guinea
Previous Winners Of The African Cup Of Nations
Year 2012 2010 2008 2006 2004 2002 2000 1998 1996 1994 1992 1990 1988 1986 1984 1982 1980 1978 1976 1974 1972 1970 1968 1965 1963 1962 1959 1957
Hosts
Equatorial Guinea Angola Ghana Egypt Tunisia Mali Ghana/Nigeria Burkina Faso South Africa Tunisia Senegal Algeria Morocco Egypt Ivory Coast Libya Nigeria Ghana Ethiopia Egypt Cameroon Sudan Ethiopia Tunisia Ghana Ethiopia Egypt Sudan
Winners
Egypt 1-0 Ghana Egypt 1-0 Cameroon Egypt 0-0 Ivory Coast (4-2 Pens) Tunisia 2-1 Morocco Cameroun 0-0 Senegal (3-2 Pens) Cameroun 2-2 Nigeria (4-3 Pens) Egypt 2-0 South Africa South Africa 2-0 Tunisia Nigeria 2-1 Zambia Ivory Coast 0-0 Ghana (11-10 Pens) Algeria 1-0 Nigeria Cameroun 1-0 Nigeria Egypt 0-0 Cameroon (5-4 Pens) Cameroun 3-1 Nigeria Ghana 1-1 Libya (7-6 Pens) Nigeria 3-0 Algeria Ghana 2-0 Uganda Morocco (League Format) Zaire 2-0 Zambia (After Replay) Congo 3-2 Mali Sudan 1-0 Ghana RD Congo 1-0 Ghana Ghana 3-2 Tunisia Ghana 3-0 Sudan Ethiopia 4-2 Egypt Egypt 2-1 Sudan Egypt 4-0 Ethiopia
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