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Uganda's Queen of Katwe star Nikita Pearl Waligwa dies aged 15

From the Editor

O u r G r ea tes t G lor y is n ot 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 b r in g in g th e commu 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 ju n e als o vis it o u r web s ite a t www. a f r ikan pos t.co m f or d aily n ews u pd a tes o n Af r ica.

D is cla imer : Th e o p in io n s ex pr es s ed in ar ticles a n d s to r ies in th is N ews pa per a r e th os e o f th e a u th o r s a n d do n o t n eces s a r ily r ef lect th e views o f Af r ika n Pos t . All commen ts a n d s u gg es tio n s ar e welco me.

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CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT

I’m 53% Nigerian – Rapper Lil Wayne reveals after tracing African root Pg.6

Nigeria: Buhari Unveils Made in Nigeria Armoured Vehicles Pg. 36

Kenya's former President Daniel arap Moi dies aged 95 Page 29

Bishop Dag Heward Mills Loyaly and Disloyalty Pg. 11

Namibia’s first lady pledges all her $3m wealth to charity Pg. 16

Ghana Participates In 5000 Role Models Of Excellence Project Pg. 14

An actress who starred in the Queen of Katwe, a Disney film about a chess prodigy from a Ugandan slum, has died aged 15, Ugandan media report.

Nikita Pearl Waligwa had been diagnosed with a brain tumour.

The 2016 film was based on the true story of Phiona Mutesi, who took up chess aged nine despite not being in school and went on to compete in international tournaments.

who explained the rules of chess to her.

She was first diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2016 and Queen of Katwe director Mira Nair reportedly mobilised people to help fund her treatment in India, with Ugandan doctors quoted as saying they did not have the necessary equipment.

She was given the all-clear in 2017 but last year was found to have another tumour.

It starred Lupita Nyong'o as her mother and David Oyelowo as her chess teacher.

Waligwa played the role of Gloria, a friend of Phiona

Nikita Pearl Waligwa: Queen of Katwe stars pay tribute Stars of the film Queen of Katwe have paid tribute to actress Nikita Pearl Waligwa who has died at the age of 15.

Waligwa had been diagnosed with a brain tumour and died in hospital in Kampala on Saturday.

She starred in the 2016 Disney film which was based on the true story of Phiona Mutesi, a chess prodigy from a Ugandan slum.

Her co-star David Oyelowo wrote on Instagram: "She was a ball of light in Queen of Katwa and in life."

He played the role of Phiona Mutesi's chess teacher while Lupita Nyong'o played her mother.

Waligwa featured as the character Gloria, a friend of Phiona who explained the rules of chess to her.

Ms Nyong'o said on Instagram: "She played Gloria with such vibrancy. In her real life she had the enormous challenge of battling brain cancer."

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa

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U.S. Government Pledges to Remove Nigeria from Its Immigrants Visa Ban have also confirmed that we have been able to tick most of those boxes,” he said, except for data sharing on lost or stolen U.S. passports.

“Hopefully, once that has been achieved, we look forward to being taken off this visa restriction list,” Onyeama concluded.

“During the Binational Commission we looked at some of the statistics of the trade between the United States and Nigeria, and for two big countries it’s – it really is just too low. And we honestly believe that there’s just so much more we can and we should be doing together. Of course, there have been maybe some disincentives”. Says Onyeama

And last but not the least, to thank you again, Mr. Secretary. We know you’ve just come back from a very long trip. But nevertheless, you’ve taken the time to be here with us and afford us the opportunity to listen very attentively – and very sympathetically. Says Hon. Geoffery Onyeama, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.

AbdulRasheed Abubakar - Washington D.C.

Mike Pompeo and Geoffrey Onyema at the Department of State, Feb. 4, 2020, in Washington, D.C. /CABNCTV images Washington DC (CABNCTV) – In what many observers described as a positive diplomatic interactions, the Trump Administration led by Secretary Mike Pompeo met with Nigeria’s top diplomats led by Foreign Minister Geoffrey Onyema announced that, the U.S. is committed to spend $40 million in humanitarian assistance.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo who announced the U.S. humanitarian gesture during a joint press briefing with his counterpart Nigerian Foreign Affairs Minister, Geoffrey Onyeama said “Nigeria is already America’s second-largest trading partner in Africa. U.S. companies from Google to Chevron to KPMG invested over a billion dollars in Nigeria in 2018 alone, creating over 18,000 jobs and indirectly supporting 3 million others”.

CABNCTV Correspondent reports that, U.S Secretary of State Mike said “we’re pleased, too, that President Muhammadu Buhari has prioritized that fight against corruption”. In support of that fight, I am announcing today that the United States and Nigeria have signed an agreement to return to the Nigerian people more than $308 million in assets stolen by a former dictator Sani Abacha.

Secretary Pompeo stated that, “The foreign minister and I just completed a very productive conversation on how to continue to strengthen the economic and security ties between our two nations. This is a real priority for us in the Trump administration in Africa, because Nigeria is Africa’s most populous democracy and its largest economy”.

Nigeria’s Foreign Minister Onyeama said, “I’d like to say it’s been a great pleasure to be back in Washington to attend the Binational Commission between the United States and Nigeria. This commission for us is a very important and valued framework for the cooperation between our two countries. And as the Secretary has said, we came with a large delegation”.

On the visa ban, Onyema said there has been mixed feelings regarding the U.S. Government ‘Immigrants visa ban’ announcement past week. Nigeria officials working with U.S. DHS officials, had identified the shortcomings and were working to quickly resolve them “U.S. officials

I’m 53% Nigerian – Rapper Lil Wayne reveals after tracing African root

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African-American Tahira Muhammad Relishes Getting Ghanaian Citizenship

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mindset. I feel that the mentality of the people is 60 years behind.

There’s no self-pride in being a Ghanaian. Ghanaians overall have little trust and support for themselves and their people and their abilities.”

The newly minted Ghanaian citizen elaborated: “There are many Ghanaians who have invented innovative things for the country but don’t get the recognition they deserve. Instead, credit goes to foreigners like Chinese and Lebanese. As a result, corruption and dishonest business practises penetrate the hearts and minds of the people and this has caused a vicious cycle of dishonesty and distrust.”

Photo courtesy of Tahira

Ghana’s seat of government — Jubilee House — played host to one of the biggest ceremonies as part of activities commemorating the 2020 Year of Return, the Jubilee House event saw 126 AfricanAmericans and Afro-Caribbeans receive Ghanaian citizenship. This happens a little over a year after the official August 2018 launch of the Year of Return by Ghana.

American rapper, Lil Wayne, has disclosed that he is Nigerian.

The entrepreneur who began his music career at age 13, disclosed this while he was a guest on Revolt TV’s “Drink Champ”.

In the interview, he said an ancestry test shows he is 53% Nigerian.

“Shout out to Nigeria, I did my 23 and me ancestry dot com and my shit came back like 53% Nigerian. Yea! Me and my mum need to have a talk,” Wayne said.

The Grammy award winner, who is known for his unique flair and dynamic lyrics, has openly shown his love for the West African country, making reference to the nation in his hit song, Amili.

Responding to the question about a possible visit to Nigeria, he said, ”I gat to go to Nigeria…I gat to go see that place.

This is not the first time Wayne has expressed an interest in visiting the West African country. Some weeks back while playing “Never Ever Have I”, he stated he would love to visit Nigeria and Egypt.

His interest in Nigeria heightened after industry colleagues Cardi B, Meghan Thee Stallion, and Future visited in 2019.

NOVIEKU-BABATUNDE ADEOLA | Staff Writer

Tahira Muhammad was among the 126. She tells TheAfricanDream.net that she first went to Ghana in 2000. The journalist and a teacher have an MA in Teaching English, she currently teaches secondary in Ghana and also teaches a class called Global Perspectives. “I use the Global Perspectives class to help young African students critically think about the issues facing Ghana and the continent as a whole,” Tahira told TheAfricanDream.net in an interview.

Tahira is one of the many descendants of African ancestry in the Americas and across the globe that have yielded to the call of Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo to return to Africa for the Year of Return, an event celebrating the resilience of African people and to also mark the 400th anniversary of the first Africans forcibly transported to what is now the United States of America.

“I will never forget that Wednesday, November 27, 2020 date as I stood amidst 126 AfricanAmericans and Afro-Caribbeans to recite the oath of allegiance which was administered by a judge in this moving ceremony. We all became new citizens of Ghana. My citizenship certificate and euphoria sis beyond description right now,” — Tahira Muhammad.

She went on to tell TheAfricanDream.net that she fell in love with Ghana from the hospitality of the people when she first visited and did not want to leave. So, when she returned to the US after that first trip she worked for a year during which she saved $3,500 US dollars working two jobs to enable her return to settle in Ghana for a year. “It was on my return that I met my now ex-husband and with whom I had my now beautiful 16-yearold son,” and with that, TheAfricanDream.net wanted to learn more of Tahira’s story.

When asked what the main thing she found peculiar about Ghana was, she said to her “the hardest thing was accepting the fact that many Ghanaians and Africans on the continent have a neo-colonial

“This was the hardest thing that almost made me want to give up. I think it hit me harder when I came back here from living in the Middle East for 9 years. Gulf Arab governments make sure that their people come first. Dubai was able to become a rich country from its tourism in 50 plus years. Ghana has far more resources but the people are still living in poverty.”

According to Tahira, on the day she obtained her Ghana citizenship, she finally felt a sense of belonging, this happening 20yrs after serving Ghana both locally and internationally. She explained that back in 2001 she helped 14 orphans go back to school by advocating for friends in the US to pay their school fees. One of them is now going to nursing school and some have positively moved on with their lives in different ways.

“While in Kuwait I also was a member of the Association of Ghanaians there. I participated in helping organize Ghana Independence Day Celebrations as well as sat in meetings to help arrest Ghanaians in Ghana who participated in the illegal trafficking of Ghanaian women to Kuwait.”

Besides these actions, Tahira feels she has paid her dues on the road to attaining Ghanaian citizenship, she says in addition to a smile that, “Ghana was responsible for the trading of my ancestors to the US Virgin Islands. So I feel that citizenship is due me.”

TheAfricanDream.net asked Tahira Muhammad what people from America and elsewhere visiting Ghana can expect as part of The Year of Return 2020 when they are in Ghana. She said “visitors coming to Ghana should appreciate the efforts that the diaspora in Ghana made to make sure that this was successful.”

“Unfortunately, there was an educational gap in the purpose of the Year of Return and as a result, some Ghanaians have turned it into a money-making event, instead of using it to establishing the lost connection between our people — so this is a work in progress, but there is hope.”

Overall it has been an emotional journey going back to Ghana again for Tahira after being away for almost a decade. Yet, what she hopes to happen is that people become more vigilant and help the country fight corruption and hold officials more accountable.

“Ghana is not up to its full potential and will not be able to until corruption is curbed I believe. Rwanda is a prime example of what an African country can become if corruption is minimized. I hope that Ghana can live up to the standards that its first President Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah wanted for her and Africa.”

And with that TheAfricanDream.net ended our first interview of a returnee. Do you have a story to share, contact us, we would love to hear from you, no matter where you are, oh and a happy YearOfReturn to all, including the other 125 new Ghanaian citizens. We wish you all the best…

Written by Oral Ofori

Ambassador Arikana Chihombori Quao, the Activist with the voice of an African lion

Her Excellency (HE) Ambassador Arikana Chihombori Quao MD is a medical doctor and an activist with the voice of African Lion. She is a public speaker, educator, diplomat, founder of several medical clinics, an entrepreneur and a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians.

healthcare crisis in Africa.

In January 2019, HE Ambassador Chihombori Quao MD launched the “Wakanda One Village Project” to begin in Zambia and Zimbabwe as a result of both countries offering land in support. The Wakanda project which seeks to engage Africans in the Diaspora will In 1977 she moved to the United States from her birth- consist of five African Centers of excellence in the five place of Zimbabwe. And almost 2 decades down the regions on the continent. These Centers are to be centers line in 1996, she received an award from the late of development with state-of-the-art healthcare facilities, President Nelson Mandela of the Republic of South hotels, industrial homes, and shopping centers among Africa in recognition of her contributions to Africa. others.

As the CEO and founder of Bell Family Medical Centers in the United States, she was appointed the African Union representative and Ambassador to the United States in 2017. On October 7, 2019, however, she received a letter from the African Union Commission Chairman — Moussa Faki — that notified that she was no longer “Permanent Ambassador.“

At the African Union Summit In 2015, she received the “Women of Excellence Award” as she worked on her mandate to promote Africa in the Americas by particularly mobilizing the African diaspora including all people of African descent living outside of Africa.

Besides this and other numerous awards won, the former African Union Representative to the United States HE Ambassador Chihombori Quao MD who is the sec- was declared 2020 Person of the year by the reputed ond African Union Representative to hold this position publication the Guardian Nigeria. succeeded Ambassador Amina Salum Ali of Tanzania who assumed office in 2007. The Doctor holds a bach- HE Ambassador Chihombori Quao MD is seen in this elor’s degree in General Chemistry, a master’s degree late January 2020 video with storyteller and blogger in organic chemistry, and a Doctor of Medicine degree. Oral Ofori whom she shares some of her passion during She worked as a family medicine specialist where she an interview in Washington, DC. There’s been a roaring practiced medicine for 29 years in Murfreesboro, global call for H.E. Ambassador Arikana Chihombori Tennessee in the United States.

Quao MD to become the African Union Commission Chairman, find out her response in the video below and The Activist who grew up in the village of Chivhu in what the future holds…

Zimbabwe is noted for her outspoken stance on the implications of the Berlin Conference that took place Kindly watch/share/comment on video -in Berlin, Germany, in 1884 and how it continues to https://youtu.be/D5_xjyfm1MU negatively impact Africa to date. A matter she speaks on in her numerous lectures. She seeks to reunite Source: Various compilations African states and Africans in the Diaspora.

Oral Ofori From 2012 to 2016, the Ambassador served as the Chair of the African Union-African Diaspora Health ☎+1202.706.9881 Initiative where she worked on mobilizing African health professionals in the Diaspora to assist with

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Bollywood Partners Nollywood in New Movie 'Namaste Wahala'

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By Jayne Augoye Two of the world's biggest movie industries, Bollywood and Nollywood, have teamed up for the first time to produce a movie.

'Namaste Wahala' is a romantic comedy collaboration between both industries and is set for theatrical release on April 24.

The film is touted as the first movie collaboration between Nollywood and Bollywood.

The movie is a story of love, romance, laughter, tears, and family set over two diverse and rich cultures.

Produced by Indian Lagos-based filmmaker, Hamisha Daryani Ahuja, the movie parades a star-studded cast.

Bollywood stars Ruslaan Mumtaz and Segal Sujata play lead roles in the film.

The cast includes Mofe Damijo, Ajoke Silva, Inidima Okojie, Ruslaan Mumtaz, Segal Sujata, Adaora Lumina, Ibrahim Suleiman and Big Brother Naija's Frodd.

Others are Imoh Eboh, Osas, Eneeicha, Lyk10, Mexemania, Tience Pay, MI Abaga and many others.

Hamisha, who also directed the movie, explained that her passion for filmmaking prompted her to produce the film.

She explained that she is poised to make a feature film that will examine her cultural experiences living in India and Nigeria.

"Namaste Wahala is a story a lot of laughter and a few tears about love and family. This project is very close to my heart as it's my first movie and it's also the first movie ever that brings together Nollywood and Bollywood. I am grateful to all the extraordinary cast and crew that helped me make this project a reality.

"With nothing but a passion for film, I embarked on a journey to make a feature film that is a melting pot of my cultural experiences between India and Nigeria. The moment I made this decision, I knew that it would require that I give it focused energy in faith, and watch it all manifest," she said.

Rapper M.I. Abaga is also one of the associate producers for the forthcoming movie.

https://allafrica.com/stories

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South Africa Beats U.S. To Emerge 2020 Winner Of International Moot Court Competition

Pic Credit: iol.co.za

A team of South African Grade 11 learners has won the 5th International School Moot Court Competition in Gdynia, Poland.

The contest saw Team South Africa defeat Team USA in the final round following previous wins against competitors from Bulgaria, Romania, Mongolia, St Maarten, and Venezuela.

The contest replicated human rights-centered litigation before an international tribunal under the moot fact: “Scene of Conflict over the past decade in Tabanath”.

Pic Credit: iol.co.za South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa, has congratulated the team for their victory stating that it is an achievement to be celebrated by all South Africans.

“Team South Africa has made our country proud again and our learners’ triumph demonstrates that when learners, educators, and parents work together, we can achieve great things,” President Ramaphosa said in a statement.

“This victory also tells us that our schools are effective in preparing young South Africans for life beyond the classroom and beyond the borders of our country.

“This should inspire all of us to work even harder to secure better education outcomes for all learners across our country,” he added.

There were a total of 15 team members from South Africa who traveled to Poland, consisting of eight pupils and seven officials.

Pic Credit: Eden Durban/Facebook The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has also congratulated the participating pupils, which include Sureshka Naidoo and Caitlin Schwarer of Eden College, Nondumiso Ntshangase and Nosipho Dube of Mathubesizwe High School in KZN, Mihlali Precious Stotile and Ondele Bede of Holy Cross; Okhela Sigwela and Lizalise Dlomo of Hudson Park High School in the Eastern Cape.

According to the DBE spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga, it is not the first time that South Africa was represented in the International Moot Court competition, having participated in the last three editions of the competition, which were held in The Hague.

“It is not the first time South African learners have made the country proud in this competition. During 2014, 2016 and 2018 chapters of the International Moot Court Competition, South Africa obtained second, first

and best presenter award after a strong-willed fight against other countries,” Mhlanga said.

The team arrived at OR Tambo International on Sunday and the pupils were given heroes welcome.

The International moot interschool competition is a global competition usually held in front of a mock International Tribunal where students act as counselors and advocate the different sides of a case based on a problem written by an organization or school.

The students analyze the problem, identify the legal issues, research the law, write the briefs and orally present it to the moot court, basically replicating what an attorney does. https://face2faceafrica.com/

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"It was so euphoric that I couldn't help but cry" — Masao Meroe says of Ghana citizenship a real estate development consultant on low and moderateincome housing development and community development projects in California and Ohio. He, however, grew up in Massachusetts after his four-month stint in Japan as an infant. He disclosed he has since returned to Japan once during his adult life.

Now that Masao is a full-blown Ghanaian, and will soon be a proud owner of a Ghanaian passport, how does that feel? “Well…” said the man who moved to Ghana and only retired in the last couple of years, “I’m a person who holds an American passport for convenience of travel. When I get my Ghana Passport, I’ll be a person who holds the Ghanaian passport for convenience of travel but mainly in West Africa and, more so the rest of Africa.“

“‘Euphoric‘ doesn’t really convey the way I felt that evening. I’m not sure I can give you a replacement.

The knowledge of the impending Citizenship Ceremony was a long time in coming… and for the past year seemingly elusive to the point of wondering if it would ever happen. The ‘process’ was not a real ‘process‘ whereby an application form, dates, schedules and information were never communicated (because they didn’t exist as the government ministries and agencies stunned through the event). I cried because of the the long journey to get to that point, that moment of citizenship. I cried thinking back upon friends who helped me get here and not here to experience the ceremony which would have made them feel proud of this achievement. I cried thinking about all the people who would be proud with me of my becoming a Ghanaian citizen.“ in London These are the words of Masao Meroe on becoming a citizen of Ghana. His father is from Marshall, Texas in the United States (US) and his mother is Japanese. His parents met during the US occupation of Japan after WWII. He is an American born on a US military base in Japan where he spent the first 5 months of his life.

He became a Ghanaian citizen in November 2020 and is the second person I am interviewing about leaving the US to settle in Ghana.

TheAfricanDream.net discovered that Masao, an African-American, is the founder of Sankofa Investments (established 1994 in Ghana) under which he owns and operates Sankofa Beach House and formerly Sankofa Meroe Tours. A graduate of Brandeis University and the University of California, Berkeley, Masao holds a BA in Politics, a Masters in City and Regional Planning and a Juris Doctorate of Law.

He first visited Ghana in 1981 and almost four decades down the line, he stood in line on November 27, 2019, with others to take the oath of citizenship and became

Ghanaian. “It was so Euphoric again that I couldn’t help but cry,” Mr. Meroe told TheAfricanDream.net during this chat.

Let’s go back to 1981 where all this started.

Masao arrived at the University of Ghana for a short law school program that year. His fascination with Africa grew from that time on, it led to him traveling widely within the continent. So strong was the pull by Africa that in the year 2000 he moved his family to Accra, Ghana after living in Ibadan, Nigeria for five years with them.

As he talked more about his citizenship ceremony, Masao explained, “the swearing-in elevates your sense of belonging and instills a sense of responsibility for the growth, wellbeing, and security of this country because I am a part of it.

I have embraced the country as my own. This is a feeling I never had in the US,” said Masao who has been traveling within Africa and organizing tours for more than three decades as a way of bringing to others the Africa experience.

Read also: African-American Tahira Muhammad relishes getting Ghanaian citizenship

“My years of living and working in Africa have enabled me to establish relationships and contacts that afford groups and individuals access to people and places generally unreachable to tourists.

Through my Sankofa Meroe Tours, I was able to tailor tour activities based on the specific interest for not just African-Americans, but persons and institutions of all kinds that wanted an authentic experience. While I just completed a small group tour last October, I’m now running away from this business as I’m trying to slow down the pace of life.“ Before all this, he primarily worked in the US as

“We moved with savings and lived off those for the first two years when we arrived in Ghana,” said the 64-year-old retiree, who is, well, not quite retired as he explained that “the Beach House is a ‘working retirement’ for me. Let’s just say he is “a correct man,” which is generally what the Japanese male name Masao means.

Before he became a citizen of Ghana, he had already committed half his life experience in Africa, seeing and experiencing more of Ghana than the average Ghanaian. Masao has also seen more of West Africa than the average West African and more of Africa than most Africans. “I, however, live in Ghana with no plans to leave or desire to live elsewhere. My citizenship does not change any of these feelings.”

Speaking of change, when TheAfricanDream.net asked Masao what he would love to change about Ghana if he could, without hesitation he responded: “The sense of protecting and appreciating the environment and cleanliness because I run a beach bed and breakfast. The sight of trash in the ocean is heartbreaking for me, and my dream is to see a cleaner Ghana soon in every sense of the word for everyone, especially the children.“

“My children are now in the US where they attended University, as much as my wife and I miss them, they are working there and also trying to make their way back home to Ghana which is home for all of us,” said Masao whose wife, Janet, was also vetted and approved for Ghanaian citizenship.

Watch out for my next conversation yet another AfricanAmerica who became a citizen of Ghana and next time you are in Ghana do check out Sankofa Beach House — remember to tell them TheAfricanDream.net sent you.

Also, visit www.sankofabeachhouse.com to find out more and don’t forget to ask Masao about his favorite dish and drink from Ghana when you get the opportunity to meet him.

Written by Oral Ofori

Loyalty and Disloyalty

already within the city. You just wait . They will open those big gates from within and my armies will rush in. That is the only way the enemy can destroy a successful and Powerful Ministry that is doing all the right things. It has to come from within. The 5th comprises the disloyal, double faced double-tongue and discontented people within every ministry. If these people are allowed to wreak havoc as they so very well can, they will destroy the church.

I remember years ago when I started out in the ministry, I experienced the the effect of having a disloyal Associate. This official although officially standing on my right hand side did not believe in me and was murmuring against me all the time. His home was the meeting place for all the discontented people in the church. Every time they gathered they would discuss and criticize me. At times they would talk about the way I preached . At other times it was the way I sipped water in the middle of my sermons.

Rev. Dag Heward-Mills Yet again , some felt I was not friendly enough. But the Lord revealed all these things to me . I prayed about it and asked the Why teach on the subject “loyalty and disloyalty”. I Lord what to do believe the Lord has laid on my heart this practical subject for God told me “ Get rid of that guy” I said “ Lord you mean he various reasons. First of all I have seen the relevance of the must leave the church. ? subject in the word of God. The scriptures are littered with And the Lord said “I mean exactly that . “Dismiss him otheraccounts of faithful and treacherous people. There was a lot to wise you will never have peace and your church will never grow. learn from these accounts in the Bible .

So I called a meeting of the Elders of the church. At the meeting I My few years in the ministry have also made me very said “ I realise that Brother X is not in support of me. He’s conaware of loyal and disloyal people. I have noticed the impact stantly full of bitter criticisms” that it has on churches and Ministries. I will share with you a I said to Brother X . “ I know that you do not believe in my few reasons why the subject of loyalty is such an important leadership anymore. I trained you. I brought you up . And today one. you are too big to remain under my authority.”

I asked “ What do you think we should do.:” 7 reasons why the subject of loyalty is important Then the brother said “ Lets work things out.”

1. Loyalty is the principal qualification for every minister An inexperienced person is likely to think that a friendly But the scripture that the Lord had shown me came floating up brother will make a good pastor. He may also think that to my mind. Cast out the scorner, and contention shall go out yea, someone with good oratory skills will make the best preacher. strife and reproach shall cease. Proverbs 22:10.

Do not make that mistake. The Bible teaches us that the I spoke up, pointed to my assistant and said, “ You know as Cardinal requirement for leadership is faithfulness and not well as i do that its not going to work . You dont believe in me anything else. anymore.” I went on ? from today, I have relieved you of all your …… it is required in stewards, that man be found faithduties in this church, “ ful. 1st Corinthians 4 vrs. 2 He sputtered , “ What !” Then he said, “ I will continue coming I have found many wonderful pastors who work with me. to church even though I may not have certain responsibilities.”

Many of them are not overly friendly, flashy, or particularly But I said to him, “ No! You must leave ! You are not part of gifted. But time has proven that they are the best gifts God us. Your presence in the church will only be destructive.” has given to his Church and me .

I tell you, it was no easy thing to dismiss a friend and associate of many years . But it had to be doone .

2. To fight the 5th column The Bible tells us that when Abraham was in conflict with Lot Very early in my ministry I realized that the devil is an he directed Lot to go somewhere else !. Abraham was saying “ If expert destroying the church from within. If you are a good we are apart there will be peace and the work of God can go on.

Minister called of God and doing the right things, the devil A disloyal person breeds strife, hatred and murmuring . These will have vry little opportunity to fight against you from outdisloyal sentiments are like smoke that fills and entire house. The side. Like Jesus said “ the prince of this world cometh and only way to get rid of the smoke is to get rid of the fire. hath nothing in me . John 14 : 30.

If we want to have a large church , we need to minister with You will realize that Satan often does not have the occalove and with oneness. If we cannot be one, lets stop pretending. sion to launch deadly attacks against you from outside. Jesus You see , I encourage people to walk out of my church if their was saying that though the enemy was coming after him, he hearts are not with me. did not have any grounds to destroy him. There are many I will beg you to leave , if I have to. I am serious about this . I anointed preachers in the same category. Satan has no basis will even give you money to pay for your transportation and for which to overcome them so he has to use someone from snacks as you leave us. So that those of us who love one another within. In the case of Jesus it was a traitor (Judah) whom are confident about each other can stay together and continue Satan used. working. I don't know how to pretend . I simply don't know how I recall reading the story of an army General who surto do it. But there are many pretenders in the Church . They prerounded a large city with the aim of conquering it. This city tend to love you and support you but in their hearts they despise was heavily fortified with a high and imposing wall and you. gate. The army General surrounded the city in readiness to attack. One friend of the general came along and asked him, 3.For the love of God to fill the Church “Sir, how do you think you are going to overcome the The Ministry is supposed to operate with the power of love defenses of this city ? No one in recent history has been unity and teamork. able to conquer this great City.”

The ministry is supposed to operate with the power of love The army general smiled and said “ It is my 5th column I am depending on to do the trick. “ The generals friend was By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you very interested and asked, “What is this 5th column?. I love one another.” John 13:35 thought you only had four columns.”

To minister as effective leader you need to exhibit the love that The army general replied “ I do have a 5th column.”

Jesus spoke about. People are attracted by love. When thhy see “Oh, I see. Is it a special commando unit or are they airleaders who flow together in genuine love they are attracted. You borne paratroopers?’ the man asked. must never forget that your church members are not blind. Neither I will fight from within are they deaf. They can see and feel disunity and discord when it The general laughed “ No, it's none of these. My 5th colis there. umn consists of my spies friends and supporters who are

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Sheep Oy Drink from Still Waters.

One thing that every pastor must know about sheeo is that they drink from still waters. If the water is murky and rough the sheep will stay away . You see, they are not sure there is no crocodile in the water ! ...... h leadth me beside the still waters. Pslam 23:2 Whenever there is treatury and distrct your church members become scared and wary aa stay away.

4.To have a large and successful ministerial team One man can only do so much . One pastor can only be at one place at a time . He can only minister until his stregth (which is limited) exhausted.

Because of this anyone who wants to extend his ministry and bear fruit has to learn to work with many other people . These people are the team that I am talking about However it would be better to work alone than with the team of disloyal disgruntled disunited disaffected people. In fact it is not possible to have an effective team with such people I believe I have only been able to do so as much as I have done because of the team with whom I worked.

5. To Have e Mega Church As I am writing these are lighthouse churches in Ghana , Switzerland and SouAaaca to mention afew. Thes churches are part of a new that is loyal to the headqurters of the church in Ghanaaa. People often ask me how do you sustain churches on all these different locations what are so what sort of controls do you have you see much of the system depends on loyalty the churches are posted by ministers who are loyal to the Lord to me and the lighthouse vision without loyalty every Network or denomination of church constantly and the ghost disintegration they frequently divided into Splinter groups and smaller sub churches. I remember the story of A branch head that disintegrated because of disunity. some long-standing seeds of disloyalty manifested shortly after a fundraising event in the local church as a result of those disagreements the pastor decided to resign and start his own church . He was so angry that he returned all the money he had raised .The church members of course were very surprised that the money they had given to the church was being returned. This pastor spread many bad stories about his denomination and it's senior ministers. Naturally this church virtually disintegrated following the pastors action.

Dear friend I can give you story after story of why churches ( especially branched churches in big cities) constantly divide and break off. What I can say for sure is that without principled and loyal pastors the ministry of Our Lord will always be limited.

6.To Have a Long standing Ministry One person has only a few years of practical and effective Ministry.

Jesus only Ministered for 3 and 1/2 years but he extended his ministry and his influence through an effective and loyalty team. I noticed that Jesus's Ministry has branched out into the whole world and has spanned almost 2000 years. If I die now the Lighthouse Chapel is going to live on.

It does not depend on me I have not built a church around my personality The church will continue. None of us is indispensable. God can do without us that is why we need to build a team of loyal successors.

17. In ordee reap our full reward.

Those who benefit from the blessings of success are the faithful and loyal ones. One day we all hope to hear those famous words; Well done good and faithful servant those who stick with you through difficult times are different from those who come in when everything is working well.

Jesus himself told his disciples that they will be treated differently from any other famous minister. They would have a special candle and their names would even be written on the foundations of the New Jerusalem Well Done And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles ........Revelations 21:14 Even the great men of God we know today , will not qualify for this special reward. Jesus gave a reason for this special reward.- they had been loyal to Him through the most difficult part of His ministry.

Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations... I appoint unto you a kingdom.

Luke 22:28,29.

I appreciate very much the pastors who have stood with me throughout my ministry. They have watched me rise and supported me even in my mistakes. To me they are different from others. Like Jessu said they have a special reward.

February 2020

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Djibouti Launches Bid for Non-Permanent Seat on United Nations Security Council (2021-2022)

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itants. Djibouti city, its capital city, serves as a refueling and transshipment center. The country is strategically positioned in the region, and serves as hub for its neighboring landlocked countries including Ethiopia. Its currency is linked to the US dollar, has a low inflation, and is freely convertible.

Full Speech by Djibouti’s Ambassador to the United States and Permanent Representative to the United Nations H.E. Ambassador Mohamed Siad Doualeh during the launch.

Excellencies, dear colleagues, distinguished guests, members of the press, dear friends, brothers and sisters,

H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf (Foreign Minister) & H.E. Ambassador Siad Dualeh (Permanent Representative) with some Staff of the Djibouti Permanent Mission to the UN and the Master of Ceremonies – Mr. Frederick Nnoma-Addison (Extreme Left)

New York, NY

At a reception held at the Intercontinental New York Barclay Hotel, less than a mile from the United Nations (UN) Headquarters, Djibouti’s Ambassador to the United States and Permanent Representative to the United Nations H.E. Ambassador Mohamed Siad Doualeh and Foreign Minister H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf launched Djibouti’s bid for a seat as a non-permanent member on the UN Security Council in 20212022.

French is a lingua franca).

Addressing the attendees during his keynote speech, Foreign Minister H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf also described Djibouti as “a global partner for peace” and encouraged members of the UN Security Council to vote for Djibouti in June of 2020.

In presenting his justification for Djibouti’s bid, His Excellency Youssouf stated that Djibouti has “a longstanding commitment to global peace and dialogue” The Security Council consists of five permanent members and cited past examples of working relentlessly to bro(China, France, Russian Federation, United Kingdom of Great ker peace between warring factions in Somalia, contriBritain and Northern Ireland, and United States of America) and butions made to UN peace keeping missions, and a 10 non-permanent members elected by the General Assembly strong commitment to the UN Human Rights Council. for a term of two years. In accordance with rule 142 of the rules According to him “A vote for Djibouti is a vote for of procedure, the General Assembly elects each year five nonAfrica.” permanent members of the Security Council. At its eighteenth session, in 1963, the Assembly decided that the non-permanent General Abdoulnasir Awale, the 2020 UN Secretary members of the Council should be elected according to the fol- General Agent of Change award recipient, a Djibouti lowing pattern (resolution 1991 A (XVIII)): Five from African national and current UN Police Commissioner, and Asian States; one from Eastern European States; two from MONUSCO (The United Nations Organization Latin American States; two from Western European and other Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of States. – Source: UN General Assembly. the Congo) participated in the ceremony to highlight Ambassador Siad Doualeh introduced Djibouti as the “legitithe role Djibouti nationals play in international peace mate candidate” for the non-permanent seat in 2020-2021, keeping and also reinforce the importance of “police based on the long-standing UN selection criteria of “Rotation component” in international peace keeping. and Frequency,” and cited his country’s record of multilateralism and international cooperation and engagement.

Junior Mack Blues Band of New York entertained the guests to good music and Washington, DC-based “Djibouti is interested in service. It does not seek self-aggranAMIP News’ CEO Mr. Frederick Nnoma-Addison was dizement. It is genuinely committed to the ideals of the UN the Master of Ceremonies.

Charter.”

H.E. Ambassador Mohamed Siad Doualeh About Djibouti

Djibouti is a member of the African Union (AU) and the InterGovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), an eightcountry trade bloc in Africa compromising of Ethiopia, Sudan, Kenya, Djibouti, Somalia, and Uganda. She is also a member of, and has the backing of the Arab League, Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and La Francophonie (an international organization representing countries and regions where

It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to this event chaired by His Excellency Ali Youssouf, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Djibouti to officially launch in New York city, Djibouti’s campaign for a seat in the Security Council for the period 2021-2022. Please join us in welcoming his and his delegation to New York.

I also wish to acknowledge Mr. Aboubaker Omar Hadi, Chairman of Djibouti Ports and Free Zones, and Police Commissioner Awale Abdounasir, who just received the “2019 Change Agent Award” by the Secretary-General. We are basking in the glory of his success.

Djibouti believes that it deserves to serve as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for a variety of reasons which will be detailed in His Excellency’s address to be delivered later this evening. At this stage, let me point out just a few:

1. Djibouti is a reliable partner and has worked in tandem with UN Member States, large and small, permanent and non-permanent members of the Security Council on ways to advance our common priorities. Djibouti is by far, the FOSS member with the highest proportion of its national population deployed as peacekeepers.

2. Owing to its geostrategic position with regards to the Red Sea, Arabia Sea, Indian Ocean, the Gulf of Aden, and its trade friendly location, Djibouti has become a hub for the fight against terrorism, maritime piracy, and other transnational threats. It has also served as a hub for global shipping with positive consequences on economic growth and regional stability.

3. The last time Djibouti served in the Security Council was in 1993, more than 25 years ago – You would agree with me that 25 years is a long time! A long time! Djibouti has never shown uncontrolled appetite. It has patiently waited its turn.

4. Djibouti has declared its intention to serve in October 2016.

Many of you would recall my meetings with you in an effort to get your countries’ support. I wish to extend my profound gratitude to those who have expressed unconditional support to Djibouti from day 1. My gratitude goes to all the sizeable number of countries that have accepted the proposed arrangeDjibouti on the horn of Africa is a politically stable ment of reciprocal support. We also are grateful to the Arab country with a favorable climate for foreign direct League, the OIC, and the Francophonie for their endorsement. investment, FDI. It is an important maritime passage and a primary trading route between East and West. It For those who have signaled support but are in the process of reviewing candidature before making their final decision, we is located on the 2nd busiest shipping route of the world, where 60℅ of world traffic transit. Djibouti is a are saying; Please consider Djibouti! natural gateway to a market of over 400 million inhab5. To select their candidates for the Security Council and other

Djibouti Launches Bid for Non-Permanent Seat on United Nations Security Council (2021-2022) February

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United Nations bodies, the African Group and the African Union have developed a set of principles and procedures. Candidates are selected on two paramount principles, rotation and frequency.

Under these rules, it is undisputable that Djibouti should be the sole African candidate for the period 2021-2022.

6. In light of the above, and out of respect for the sovereignty of equality of States and the rules and procedures governing candidatures for the Security Council and other United Nations bodies, especially the principles of rotation and frequency, Djibouti respectfully urges all Member States to support its candidature for the Security Council for the period 2021 – 2022.

Colleagues, Dear Friends,

Djibouti is interested in service. It does not seek self-aggrandizement. It is genuinely committed to the ideals of the UN Charter.

Djibouti will conduct a positive campaign. However though, it is left with no choice but to fight against some sarcastic and obnoxious insinuation aimed at belittling and delegitimizing Djibouti’s bid.

7. Some claim that the principle of rotation and the rules of the AU are cosmetic. We say this: No, they are not. The rules are what binds us together. And if they provided objective criteria in the past, there is no justification in abandoning them in the present. Why would small states be expected to dismiss and diminish themselves? They do have a role to plat and a contribution to make.

Djibouti’s Ambassador to the United States and Permanent Representation to the United Nations H.E. Ambassador Mohamed Siad Doualeh Delivering Remarks

8. Others outrageously suggest that Djibouti is not ready to serve the Council. It was ready in 1993 and it is ready now! We are battle-tested, combat-ready, ready to fight for peace. We hereby warn them Djibouti is ready. We are ready!

Fred Nnoma-Addison-AMIPnews https://amipnewsonline.org/

Foreign Minister H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf Delivery Keynote Address AMIP News CEO Mr. Frederick Nnoma-Addison Moderating the Event

Event Attendees

Afrikan

Ghana Participates In 5000 Role Models Of Excellence Project Post

Ghana has been inducted into the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project, an initiative created by United States' Congresswoman, Frederica S. Wilson, aimed at preventing school dropout and saving minority boys from drugs and the criminal justice system.

The induction occurred at the 27the Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Scholarship Breakfast on Monday, January 20, 2020, in Miami, Florida.

The event was the largest of its kind in the United States.

Ghana's Minister of Information and Member of Parliament for Ofoase Ayirebi, Honorable Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah, represented the President and the country by joining several dignitaries including the Mayor of Miami Dade County, U. S. Senator Marco Rubio, the Ambassador of Rwanda, H. E. Mathilde Mukantabana, and the Ambassador of Mozambique, H. E. Carlos Dos Santos and others.

This year's event marks the beginning of a partnership between the foundation and the Government of Ghana.

House Representative for the 24th Congressional district of the great state of Florida, Frederica S. Wilson, founded the group in 1993 to serve as an in-school dropout prevention and mentorship program with the objective to save minority boys from the pitfalls of drugs and violence.

Since its inception, about 27 years ago, the project has gained national recognition and has played a major role in shaping the lives of many young black and minority boys in the U.S. The foundation is extending its reach to Africa starting with Rwanda, Mozambique and now, Ghana.

Particularly, the newly formed partnership with Ghana finds its strength on the principle that education and formal training are the tools to develop black youth to become formidable leaders of tomorrow.

Prior to the Breakfast meeting, the Minister of Information attended a networking session with the Mayor of Miami where dignitaries and stakeholders of the foundation met to discuss aspects of the initiative, highlighting its areas of success.

By partnering with the group, Ghana hopes to formulate a mutually a beneficial relationship where both parties can learn from each other and engage in some mentorship exchange program for young boys.

Embassy of Ghana in Washington DC, USA

February 2020

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February 2020

Eight Priorities for the African Union in 2020

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29 Words Of Nigerian Origin To Be Included In Next Edition Of Oxford English Dictionary

Afrikan

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Namibia’s first lady pledges all her $3m wealth to charity February 2020

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some 110 million Namibian dollars ($7.44 million).

“Of all my achievements, the title of the first lady resonates the least with me because it’s the one title that I have really done nothing to deserve, that I got by virtue of marriage,” Geingos said.

“It is, to me, a form of unearned privilege but … it has changed a lot of my views on socio-economic issues in the country,” she said, adding that it felt “schizophrenic” to witness both wealth and poverty in her life and work.

Beyond lending money to entrepreneurs and giving grants to students, her charity supports victims of gender-based violence.

Pic Credit: op.gov.na

ord English Dictionary (OED) lexicographers are adding 29 words of Nigerian origin to their vocabulary of words that will be seen in the next edition of the dictionary.

In an announcement earlier this month, the publisher described the new words as either borrowed from Nigerian languages or having unique Nigerian coinage.

The words are said to have come from about the middle of the 20th Century.

The OED is one of the most acclaimed dictionaries of the English language. Various editions have served as authoritative references for the history and evolution of the language.

Nigeria’s official language is English and this makes the 191-millionstrong country one of the biggest English-speaking populations in the world.

But the multitude of native Nigerian languages and dialects means that lingual creolization involving the English language is also rather sophisticated.

Through its mass entertainment media, Nigerian-invented pidgin has become the most popular pidgin English in Africa.

Some of the new entries are danfo (commercial vehicular transport), okada (commercial motorcycle transport), K-leg (camel knees), sef (in particular), buka (eatery) and tokunbo (second-hand clothing or vehicle).

https://face2faceafrica.com

Namibia’s first lady, Monica Geingos, is promising to give away all her wealth, estimated at $3 million to charity when she dies.

“I strongly believe that inheritance is one of the biggest drivers of inequality,” the first lady told the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

“If I’m telling poor children that they must be well educated, have the right attitude, and they must stay away from selfdestructive behaviour and they’ll be fine, then surely that message should apply to my kids too?”

The 43-year-old lawyer and former head of Namibia’s first and largest private equity fund plans to leave her wealth to her charity ‘One Economy Foundation’ which was founded in 2016 with the slogan “One Namibia, One Economy”.

The organization aims to bridge the gap between formal and informal entrepreneurship in the African nation.

The One Economy Foundation focuses on entrepreneurship, early childhood development, and health as well as professional economic coaching and collateral-free lending.

She is very passionate about curbing gender-based violence. During Namibia’s #MeToo movement which went viral on social media, with hundreds of women naming and shaming sexual predators, Geingos was said to have offered free legal and psychosocial support to victims of sexual harassment.

She describes sexism as a common phenomenon in Namibia’s private sector as well as the media which she attributes to the fall of great women like Isabel Dos Santos, Africa’s richest woman.

“I am not saying she isn’t guilty. But there is a lack of consistency (in media coverage),” Geingos said, adding that she and Geingob will soon update their wealth declaration.

“You will always be accused of everything under the sun in these kinds of roles. But what you can do is put the information out there and let people decide themselves.”

Unlike Isabel Dos Santos who hopes to become president someday, Geingos stated: “I am not available for any executive political function … I am very convinced that you do not need to be a politician to effect change,.”

“But I do feel this deep need that I can and I must do more.” https://face2faceafrica.com/

“One Economy is about providing a fair opportunity. It’s about providing people with talent with opportunity,” Geingos said.

The first lady has declared a war on poverty in the country as a way to change the country’s economic state as declared in a report in the Journal of Economic Structure, stating that Namibia has “one of the most unequal income distributions on the African continent.”

The president who won a second and final term in November and the First Lady are hopeful that the nation’s wealth can be redistributed to address the nation’s poor.

Geingos married her politician husband, Hage Geingob on Valentine’s Day in 2015, a month before he was sworn in as president and they both declared their combined assets of

Pic Credit: YouTube

February 2020

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February 2020

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February 2020

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Afrikan Post

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Jersey bank's £230m seizure set to be returned to Nigeria

Sani Abacha ruled Nigeria with an "iron grip" from 1993 to 1998 More than $300m (£230m) seized from Nigeria's former dictator is set to be returned to the country from Jersey.

The money was laundered through the US under the presidency of Sani Abacha in the 1990s, before being transferred to the Channel Island, according to Jersey's Civil Asset Recovery Fund.

The sum was recovered from a Jersey bank account belonging to shell company Doraville in June 2019.

The governments of Nigeria, the US and Jersey signed the agreement this week.

As part of the repatriation Jersey will retain $5m (£3.8m) and the US is eligible for the same, the States said.

on fruitful co-operation, trust and respect so that the forfeited funds can be repatriated to benefit the people of Nigeria, from whom they had been taken."

Abubakar Malami, signing on behalf of Nigeria, described it as a "major victory" for the country.

Swiss authorities have already returned $300m (£230m) to Nigeria as part of the seizures.

A further $30m (£23m) in Britain and $144m (£111m) in France is expected to be recovered, according to the US Department of Justice.

Brian Benczkowski, assistant Attorney General to the department, said the "landmark" agreement ensured "transparency and accountability."

Legal battle Jersey will pay the US government on or before 6 March, and the US will then have 45 days to return it to Nigeria.

US courts ruled in 2014 Mr Abacha had stolen the money from Nigeria while he was in power from 1993 until his death in 1998.

The Doraville bank account was subsequently frozen by Jersey's Royal Court in 2014, prompting a five-year legal battle.

The returned money will be administered by the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority and will be independently audited, according to a joint statement from all three governments.

Mark Temple QC, Solicitor General and Attorney General designate of Jersey, said: "The agreement establishes a framework based

https://www.africanexponent.com/

February 2020

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Arrest Warrant Issued for Former President Zuma in South Africa

By Kaveel Singh A lack of proper evidence showing why Jacob Zuma did not attend his corruption matter led to a warrant of arrest issued against the embattled former head of state.

The warrant has been stayed until May 6 when Zuma is expected to appear again.

In delivering her decision on Zuma's absence, Judge Dhaya Pillay outlined that, while he may indeed be unwell, there was insufficient evidence in court to prove this.

Zuma's lawyer Daniel Mantsha presented the court with a document he said was from a military doctor.

"A military doctor is the person that has been attending to the former president and gave his diagnosis," he submitted.

However, Pillay said there were issues with the document before court. She said that, even though it purported to be a form from a military hospital, there was no other proof provided to her.

She said the form did not say what his condition was and had many points that required clarification that Mantsha could not provide.

"The form says there was a layman's diagnosis with the patient's consent. What does this mean? It is puzzling that there is a reference to a layman's diagnosis, and what the patient is giving consent to is unclear."

She said there were also dates that appeared to be altered.

"The date is altered to be January 6, but there is no initialing of that date. It is not clear that ZK Moteni, who signed this document, is indeed a registered medical practitioner. Mr Mantsha assumes it is his medical practice number. That is guess work."

Senior State advocate Billy Downer said he

had contacted Mantsha and his team in January to request details of Zuma's illness.

"My Lady, why are we swimming through mud now? Since January, we have asked for medical evidence and we received no responses from Mr Zuma's team."

Other appeals in the matter

Downer said they had also tried to expedite the appeals process and head to trial earlier, but had hit roadblocks with Zuma's defence.

"As the State, we commenced correspondence with Mantsha and invited them in joining Thales in its direct application to the Constitutional Court. We thought, by doing so, it would cut out appeals in the SCA."

Mantsha, however, added that it was within Zuma's rights to pursue any appeals process.

"My client is within his rights. He also feels his issues are different from that of Thales."

Zuma has petitioned the SCA for leave to appeal the dismissal of his application for a permanent stay of prosecution.

He argued in court papers that he is being used as a "scapegoat" in the corruption case against him.

He also said the State should have investigated those who were closer to decisionmaking at the time, including former president Thabo Mbeki.

The matter returns to court on May 6.

Source: News24

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South African billionaire apologizes for telling Trump Africa loves him Afrikan

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Nigeria has announced a new visa policy that its government says is intended to attract innovation and investment in areas in which the country is lacking.

President Muhammadu Buhari first announced the new visa plans in December at the Aswan Forum in Egypt.

South Africa’s foremost black industrialist and billionaire, Patrice Motsepe, has said sorry for telling US President Donald Trump that Africa loves him at a dinner in Davos, Switzerland.

Motsepe walked back his praise for Trump after severe backlash emanated from within South Africa and across the continent.

He was slammed for what his critics say was Motsepe playing the role of “Africa’s spokesman”. They also accused him of furthering his own business interests by ingratiating himself to the US president.

But in apologizing, Motsepe said, “I have a duty to listen to these differing views and would like to apologize.”

In Davos earlier this month at the World Economic Forum, he had told Trump, “Africa loves America.

Africa loves you… We want America to do well. We want you to do well.”

Motsepe denied that he was furthering his interests.

Rather, the South African mining mogul said he wanted

to encourage discussion between the US government and African business leaders.

He added that he hoped his praise of the US president would push away perception “that South Africa and some African countries are anti-America and its political leadership”.

He lamented what he believes has been a negative impact on investments from America because of that perception.

However, Motsepe agreed he did “not have the right to speak on behalf of anybody except myself.”

Motsepe is the first black South African billionaire. He owns African Rainbow Minerals Ltd (ARM), a company that mines iron ore, manganese ore, platinum group metals, copper, nickel, coal as well as gold.

He has said he was inspired by his grandfather and father, who were both entrepreneurs as well as his mother, a businesswoman who ran the family business at the time.

NII NTREH | https://face2faceafrica.com/

President Buhari called the new policy a “strategic decision to bring down barriers that have hindered the free movement of our people within the continent”.

Under the new laws, a visa will be granted on arrival for short-stay visitors from African Union (AU) states.

The government will also put in place a biometric database to identify visa applicants as well as help with identifying criminals wanted by Interpol.

In all, there are close to 80 new measures that the government says will make sure Nigerian “visas are more efficiently matched to the purpose of travel, thus helping improve the efficiency of processing and response.”

President Buhari, in announcing the policy, said he hoped the international community and business entities will understand Nigeria is “open for business.”

The new policy may be seen in the same vein as the January 31 reversal of last year’s protectionist policy that Nigeria’s government said was meant to protect local businesses.

In August 2019, Nigeria slapped a ban on the movement of all goods from countries with which it shares a land border: Benin, Niger and Cameroon, effectively banning all trade – import and export – with its neighbors.

The motivation for the move, Nigerian officials said, was to curb the smuggling of goods such as rice, tomatoes and poultry so as to bolster Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

The move was condemned by some members of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the AU as well as political and economic think tanks, some of whom described the ban as antithetical to PanAfricanism. https://face2faceafrica.com/

4A f r i k a n

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Statement On The End Of U.S. Non-Immigrant Visa Restrictions In Ghana

Young black people who became millionaires Meet Ghanaian Surgeon before turning 18 Who Saved Us Rapper 50 Cent’s Life When He Was Shot 9 Times

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Black people continue to own well-to-do businesses across the world despite the unfair political attacks they tend to face in many jurisdictions.

In the U.S., the more than 40 million black population is doing the same and in effect, generating revenue and creating jobs. This is in spite of challenges such as access to capital due to years of racial and economic discrimination.

It is now even more amazing that black children are learning from their parents and setting up their own businesses. At such young ages, they realize the value of entrepreneurship and have created successful businesses that have earned them a fortune.

The following young entrepreneurs made millions from their businesses before they were adults:

Photo: Forbes Moziah Bridges

Now 17, Moziah Bridges started his Memphis-based tie company, Mo’s Bows, when he was nine after not finding any cool bowties at a young age to match his clothing. His grandmother, a retired seamstress, would teach him how to cut and sew fabric and soon, with the help of his mother, he built a business with products that aim at making people feel good and dapper. In May 2017, the Mo’s Bows CEO inked a seven-figure, one-year licensing deal with the NBA in May to produce bow ties for all 30 professional basketball teams. His estimated net worth is $1 million, as of March 2019.

Mikaila Ulmer

The 14-year-old founder and CEO of Me & the Bees Lemonade based in Austin, Texas, U.S. started her company as a lemonade stand at the age of four. She was inspired to start this business after making a product for the Acton’s Children’s Business Fair and was stung by a bee. After her great-grandmother sent her family a recipe book that had a recipe for Flaxseed Lemonade, she became obsessed with bees and their effect on the environment. In 2009, at the age of 4, she started a simple lemonade stand which has since developed into a full-blown family business sold in several food stores in Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas. In 2015, Ulmer started supplying Whole Foods with Me & The Bees Lemonade in an $11 million deal.Ulmer, who was named one of TIME magazine’s most influential teens of 2017 has visited the White House and met former President Barack Obama on several occasions. In 2017, she mentioned that she was writing a children’s book on how to start and grow a business.

The founder and CEO of Leanna’s Essentials, a 100% all-natural hair and skincare product line started her business while still in high school, earning her first million by the age of 16 years old.

Featured on various publications, including Forbes Magazine and Ebony Magazine, Archer has since become a speaker and philanthropist and has received several honors.

- The iconic surgery on 50 Cent was revealed at a court after Dr Moses' 52-count Federal indictment for committing $23 million insurance fraud

- Also in 2010, Dr DeGraft-Johnson led a team of highly trained physicians and nurses to perform the first open-heart surgery in the U.S. Virgin Islands on a female patient

It has been revealed that the prominent fact of 50 Cent surviving nine gunshots was made possible by a Ghanaian surgeon by name Dr Moses DeGraft-Johnson.

According to Omgvoice.com who compiled a news report, the long time secret was made public by Lawyer William Bubsey, who is currently representing Dr Moses in his 52-count Federal indictment for committing $23 million insurance fraud.

It was made known at the court that when 50 Cent was fired nine different shots at close range with a 9mm handgun, the Ghanaian surgeon was the doctor that saved him from joining the dead.

50 Cent whose real name is Curtis James Jackson III was reportedly shot in the hand, arm, hip, both legs, chest, and left cheek.

Along with Dr Nader Paksima, the Ghanaian surgeon Dr Moses DeGraft-Johnson successfully operated and saved the life of 50 Cent who was 27 years old at the time.

Farrah Gray

Leanna Archer

Ghanaian Dr Moses DeGraft-Johnson was a man behind the salvation of top US rapper 50 Cent when he got shot 9 different times

Growing up in inner-city Chicago in the 1980s, Gray beat the odds to become history’s youngest self-made millionaire, beyond the field of entertainment, at the age of 14. This was largely made possible by his business ventures that included KIDZTEL pre-paid phone cards, the One Stop Mail Boxes & More franchise, and his radio teen talk show “Youth AM/FM” which discussed issues related to youth entrepreneurship.In his teens, Gray, who became the youngest person to have an office on Wall Street, was also Executive Producer of a comedy show on the Las Vegas Strip and owner of Farr-Out Foods which generated orders exceeding $1.5 million. Now, at 33, Gray is an inspiration to millions and an international bestselling author.

It is indicated that the surgery on the US rapper might have brought the surgeon to fame but he has been working relentlessly for several years.

In 2010, reports have it that Dr DeGraft-Johnson led a team of highly trained physicians and nurses to perform the first open-heart surgery in the U.S. Virgin Islands on a female patient.

In other news relating to life-saving surgeries, an ultra-modern surgical theatre that was built in the Pentecost Hospital at Ayanfuri has saved the lives of 48 people in just 2 months.

The surgical theatre was built by the church with a whopping GHC 271,000 and has been open since December 2019. Pentecost Hospital, Ayanfuri is only one of the 8 health institutions of The Church of Pentecost run by the PENTSOS Directorate. http://www.msn.com/

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February 2020

Daughter of Bill Gates gets engaged to Egyptian horse rider

Jennifer and Egyptian partner Nassar

Jennifer, the daughter of Microsoft-cofounder Bill Gates, has got engaged to her Egyptian partner, Nayel Nassar.

“SHE SAID YES!!”, he wrote.

“I’m feeling like the luckiest (and happiest) man in The 23-year-old daughter of Bill and Melinda Gates the world right about now,’ he wrote. “Jenn, you are announced this on Wednesday, saying that she is get- everything I could have possibly imagined..and so ting married to the Egyptian showjumper. much more. I can’t wait to keep growing together through this journey called life, and I simply can’t In an Instagram post, she wrote: “Nayel Nassar, you imagine mine without you anymore. Love you more are one of a kind,’ Jennifer wrote on Instagram. than you can possibly imagine, and thank you for “Absolutely swept me off my feet this past weekend, making every single day feel like a dream to me. surprising me in the most meaningful location over Here’s to forever!” one of our many shared passions. I can’t wait to spend the rest of our lives learning, growing, laugh- Jennifer replied: “Yep crying again its fine life is ing and loving together. Yes a million times over. perfect rn you’re everything to me.”

AHHH!!!”

At the moment, it is unknown when the two plan to The two have been dating since 2017 and they both tie the knot. love show jumping.

Jennifer’s parents, Bill and Melinda Gates, through From the picture Jennifer posted to her Instagram their Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, have been account, it appears their engagement happened while providing funding for various developmental initiaon a skiing trip. tives in Africa, including women and girl-child iniJennifer can also be seen wearing a large diamond tiatives. ring in the heartwarming photo taken in the snow.

Gates, who is the co-founder of the Foundation, Born in Medina, Washington, the eldest daughter of recently pointed out that his relationship with Gates recently completed a biology degree at Africa’s richest man Aliko Dangote has enabled him Stanford University. to make inroads with his projects in Africa.

Now a med student, she spends time away from studies on horseback or with Nassar, with whom she travels around the world.

28-year-old Nassar was raised in Kuwait and studied at Stanford University with a degree in management and economics.

The well-known showjumper could not also hide his excitement about his engagement with Jennifer.

He posted photos of the special moment on his own Instagram account.

MILDRED EUROPA TAYLOR | Associate Editor https://face2faceafrica.com/

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Silicon Valley based Overland-Tandberg heads to Ghana

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Overland-Tandberg, a Silicon Valley-based global technology company that develops and manufactures hybrid cloud IT infrastructure and data protection solutions has publically announced its readiness and commitment to start operations in Ghana.

Ghana’s Ambassador in green tie to the left of Mr. Kelly in New York

The CEO and Chairman of the company, Eric Kelly, announced the closing bell-ringing ceremony at the NASDAQ MarketSite in Times Square, New York on 11 February 2020.

Addressing the Executives who had gathered for the ceremony, Mr. Kelly shared his company’s strategy to expand its operations to Africa, particularly, Ghana. “Over the last 40 years, we have done business in over 90 countries, and it’s now time to expand, this time to Ghana“, he stated.

Mr. Kelly also commended Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, H.E. Barfuor Adjei-Barwuah, who was a special guest of honor, for his role in making Overland-Tandberg’s plan to operate in Ghana possible.

“A few months ago, the Ambassador met with us and sold Ghana to us and encouraged our company to set up operations in Ghana. We have worked at a neck-breaking speed to make this possible in just about three months. And I’m happy to say that we have acquired office space in Ghana and ready to start operations soon,” Mr. Kelly revealed.

Last year, Ambassador Adjei-Barwuah met with Senior Executives of high profile tech companies in San Francisco including eBay, SAP, Overland-Tanberg, PayPal, Bosch, etc and encouraged them to consider extending their operations to Ghana.

Overland-Tandberg was founded in 1979 and provides excellent data storage and archive solutions that are reliable and mindfully built for the Enterprise and SMB. This year, the company is celebrating 40 years as a global technology leader protecting the digital assets of businesses in about 90 countries.

Source: Embassy of Ghana, Washington DC

February 2020

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February 2020

Kenya's former President Daniel arap Moi dies aged 95 The 95-year-old was loved and loathed in equal measure; his supporters will mourn him as a patriot and a consummate politician who they fondly nicknamed "professor of politics", but others will choose to remember him as a brutal dictator.

Defenders of Mr Moi will point to his often-repeated line that he kept Kenya "safe and peaceful", noting that while several African countries were imploding into civil war the country remained stable.

Whichever version is favoured, the legacy of one of the last surviving independence leaders lives on as many of today's top politicians, including President Kenyatta and his deputy, William Ruto, were protĂŠgĂŠs of the second president.

President Uhuru Kenyatta announced his death, saying the nation had lost a "great man".

Mr Moi was Kenya's longest-serving president. He was in office for 24 years, until intense pressure forced him to step down in 2002.

His critics saw him as an authoritarian ruler who oversaw rampant corruption, but his allies credited him for maintaining stability in the country.

In 2004, Mr Moi asked for forgiveness from "those he had wronged".

What has been the reaction?

President Kenyatta has declared a period of mourning, including the flying of flags at half-mast, until a state funeral is held for Mr Moi. No date has been set for the funeral.

Mr Kenyatta said the continent was "immensely blessed by the dedication" of the late president, who spent "almost his entire adult life serving Kenya and Africa".

Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni said Mr Moi was a "true pan-Africanist", while Tanzania's President John Magufuli said he would be remembered for promoting regional integration.

Kenya's former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who was detained by the Moi regime for campaigning for multi-party democracy, praised him for introducing "incremental" reforms said that in retirement the former president had "conducted himself with complete dignity befitting an elder statesman".

Others praised Mr Moi for his focus on improving the health of schoolchildren.

In the 1980s and 1990s, the ministry of education distributed free packets of milk to all primary schools, targeting children under the age of 13.

Mr Moi died with his son Gideon at his bedside at a private hospital in the capital, Nairobi, of an unspecified illness.

"He passed away peacefully," Gideon Moi said.

"I have seen a steady decline. His decline was very worrying. He has been hospitalized since October 10th 2020 and has never left hospital," Mr Moi's former press secretary Lee Njiru told Kenya's privately owned Citizen TV.

Mr Moi is survived by eight children. He and his late wife, Helena Bomett, divorced in 1979.

Dickens Olewe, BBC News Online

The debate about how Kenyans will mourn the former president began long before he succumbed to his recent health problems.

Kenya has changed a lot since Mr Moi left office but his influence will continue to be felt for a long time.

Who was Danial arap Moi? Born on 2 September 1924, he was originally known as Torotich arap (meaning son of) but adopted the name Daniel when, as a schoolboy, he was baptised by Christian missionaries.

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Daniel arap Moi

Kenya's longest-serving president

1924born in farming community

1967becomes vice-president

1978becomes president

1982coup attempt foiled

2002steps down as president

2020dies in Nairobi

Source: Kenyan government

He was a close ally of Jomo Kenyatta, who became Kenya's first president and is the father of Kenya's current leader.

When he became president of the one-party state, he appeared to dominate almost every aspect of life, an impression aided by the state-run media.

The 1982 attempt to overthrow him led to a brutal crackdown on his opponents. He also scrapped the entire air force, whose members had taken part in the foiled coup.

He was forced to adopt a multi-party system of government in 1991, following mass protests and diplomatic pressure from Western powers.

Constitutionally barred from seeking a third term in office, he agreed to a peaceful transfer of power to Kenya's third President, Mwai Kibaki, in 2002.

His critics see his rule as the lost years. They say he stymied economic progress by personalising the state, using government resources to award loyalists and withholding them to punish those who did not toe the line.

For example, roads and factories were seen as gifts to be given and rewards for communities if their top politicians worked with the ruling party, Kanu. This entrenched a culture of political patronage that has become part of Kenyan politics. https://www.bbc.com/news

Queen Elizabeth II speaking at a State Banquet alongside President Moi, during her four-day state visit to Kenya in 1983.

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February 2020

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I Want To Naturally Help Awaken The Minds Of Our People

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— Yahoshua Williams

responsibility it now gives you towards Ghana A: I received my citizenship Wednesday, the 27th of November 2019 when the 126 other applicants got theirs. I had mixed feelings because of what transpired. Some clear mess-ups have yet to be rectified.

My wife and I both applied at the same time in 2017 with one organization. We were on the master list.

There was an opportunity to apply with another organization in 2018 to assure we were going to make the list. We applied the second time because we were not hearing anything as far as updates from the one organization. We both went to the interview process together and got interviewed together. What’s strange is that, everyone on that day — I won’t forget August 22, 2019 — was missing on the master list. We worked with the advocacy organization I mentioned to help rectify this mess up but were not successful as many including for including my wife fell through the cracks.

Yahoshua Williams photo courtesy himself

On another note, we decided to merge the efforts of our NGO with a true advocacy organization called BADA, — Bureau of African Diaspora Affairs. We didn’t see any need to duplicate efforts with an already existing organization. We thought it was wiser to work together and make a bigger stronger more impactful organization. And we are beginning to do just that. We have some major plans in the working that will positively impact all of us. Our website is www.repatassistance.org. On another very important note, we will be concentrating our efforts not only on major projects here in Ghana but also to empower the young adults and youth. All too often, older adults exclude the youths from present-day projects. All of us not only have to know and understand our roles but we also need to know when to pass the baton.

Far too many visions die when the progenitor dies. We have to know when to transition from workers to counselors and wisdom-givers. Most of our youth are dissatisfied with many of the seniors today. I say seniors because, respectively, I believe it’s a difference between a senior and an elder. Everyone who is old isn’t suitable for eldership, in my opinion. This is where the term “old fool” comes into place. We should respect our elders, but unfortunately too many are in the way of progress because they make most things about them which also includes excluding new ideas, new methods, new people, and the youth and young adults.

Q: When did you get your citizenship, describe the feeling and the sense of

roads and schools and other infrastructure-related things, especially where they are set up instead of spending money on fine clothes and fancy cars.

Q: What future do you see for yourself now as a Ghanaian and American and how do you want to bring about positive change.

A: I see the future as very bright! I see the best parts of both worlds coming together to make for a better Ghana. Some people seem to believe that we should come here and rid ourselves of everything we have learnt from the US. I disagree. Granted there are some bad things just like there are some bad things here. However, not all that we were taught there was bad. Ghana can benefit from some of the things we’ve acquired.

Q: Besides your Ghanaian name [Kojo] what other Ghanaian identity are you proud of?

A: Well, I feel more so than and Ghanaian identity We in the process discovered that many married peoit’s being truly connected to the continent itself. My ple who applied with their spouses were left off by wife and I did our African Ancestry DNA. My mistake. My wife and I do everything together. And maternal DNA test revealed that I’m 100% conwhat should have been not just a historical moment nected to the Temne people living it what’s called for everyone was missed. I was hurt and disappointed, modern-day Sierra Leone. Now any sensible person to say the least. Keep in mind we were helping behind should know that at one point in history before the scenes for a long time and are active in advocacy. I colonialism, there weren’t these invisible borders. know things happen and I was assured by good people Many of our people are the same people but in high positions in this process that it will be fixed. because of migration and often survival they sepaOur team of leaders submitted a list of all the missing rated and moved to different areas. In my discovernames. We are just waiting to hear about the way for- ies, we found many of the peoples of West Africa ward. migrated from North East Africa, what is known today as Egypt “Kemet” and Israel. My ancestry But here is another important part. We need advocacy suggests that also. for “The Right to Return” which is part of international law to help in this process. As was in 2016, this citi- Most people here know me as “Yahoshua,” I was zenship process also happened via executive order. We given that name many years ago. Yahoshua is the need legislation in place that we will all know the Hebrew variation of Joshua. The name simply process for us coming from the Diaspora via the means “savior” or “deliverer” or ‘Yahweh/Yahowah Transatlantic Slave Trade. Our situation and circumwill save.’ What comes naturally to me is helping stances are different than any other group of people in to wake up the minds of our people towards liberathe world. Our ancestors were taken from here as tion and self-reliance. I love helping gather people Africans and we, their children have returned as together and don’t mind sharing positive things that Africans. provoke thinking so that we can again, analyze present-day things and situations and find viable Q: If you could, what would you love to change about solutions amongst ourselves.

Ghana and why A: I would change the education system and the laws I believe there are two sides we can choose to be about churches. The education system should not be a on in life; it’s either the side of helping to liberate system whereby the curriculum is British based. It us as a collective or to keep us enslaved on one needs to be African centered. Students should know level or another. There is no gray area. This is why their history as that will help them with self-esteem, my motto is “If you don’t work to help make the ethnic and cultural pride and also help them know world better for the next generation while you are who we are. Also, the education system should not be alive, you’re wasting your life.“ modeled after the Western world. It should be purpose-driven, meaning each child should have choices after learning basic core courses. They should be prepared to fill the pipeline for Ghana’s future. Trades Written by Oral Ofori should be emphasized as well as specialty areas so that we don’t have to keep looking to foreigners to do what we should be equipped to do for ourselves.

As far as the churches are concerned, there are way too many churches in Ghana. If churches paid taxes like any other businesses, I guarantee you wouldn’t see as many still standing. Pastors should also be held to high standards and be accountable to their local communities. They should be putting money into

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Ecowas court orders Sierra Leone to allow US astronaut who studied at University of Ghana returns pregnant girls to attend school to earth MOHAMMED AWAL stated.

“The schools were sub-optimal and completely limiting for the girls,” The Guardian quoted Judy Gitau, Africa regional coordinator at Equality Now as saying.

“We know they felt worthless [having been banned from normal education] and to have a regional court make a declaration that the government of Sierra Leone breached its obligations to provide [basic human rights] to the girls makes them feel valued again. This ruling has given them a new lease on life.”

A regional West Africa court has ordered the government of Sierra Leone to lift a policy banning pregnant girls from attending school.

The Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) court in the milestone ruling described the policy as discriminatory, ordering the government to immediately revoke the policy.

Since April 2015, pregnant students in Sierra Leone were not allowed to sit in the same class as their peers because the government sees them as a bad influence.

The government of Sierra Leone has instead put in place alternative schools for these young mothers, where they are taught a reduced version of the mainstream curriculum.

According to Equality Now, one of the advocacy group which sent the case before the court in 2018, the Sierra Leone government adopted the policy barring pregnant girls from mainstream schools following an increase in teenage pregnancy rates linked to closed schools during the Ebola crisis.

“The decision is a resounding victory for girls’ rights in the region and the continent at large,” said Sabrina Mathani a BritishZambian human rights lawyer.

“This victory belongs to the girls in Sierra Leone who have been degraded and dehumanized because of their status since 2014,” The Guardian quoted Hannah Yambasu, executive director of Women Against Violence and Exploitation in Society (Waves), one of several organizations that filed the case against Sierra Leone in May 2018 as saying.

“Now our government in Sierra Leone has no option but to comply with their obligations as declared by the court.”

Mathani documented the ban, imposed by the former education minister in 2015 while working as a human rights lawyer for Amnesty International. She found in research that, the vast majority of girls they interviewed had become pregnant during the 2014-15 Ebola outbreak when there was an increase in teenage pregnancy, accompanied by a spike in sexual violence.

“The negative economic impact of the crisis led to an increase in exploitative and abusive relationships. Many girls had little information about sex education or access to contraceptives,” Mathani

A former pupil, Patience, who got pregnant when she was 17 and found herself banned from attending school, told the Guardian: “I am very happy because I did not have the opportunity to stay in school myself.”

“If I had been able to stay in education, I would be in my last year at uni now, or maybe I would have graduated already. I would have liked to have studied nursing. Instead, my name was taken off the school register and I was offered vocational training. Yet my daughter’s father was never banned from school, and he was able to continue to do everything he wanted to do.”

Sexual violence is said to be highly prevalent in Sierra Leone, where 8,505 rape cases – among them 2,579 involving minors – were reported to police in 2018.

Mathani said she was struck by the bravery of the girls and their determination to access education despite the obstacles.

Some of the girls said they tied their stomachs so teachers could not tell they were pregnant, a risky strategy for their health.

Others said they were prepared to face any stigma to continue in school and obtain a qualification, something that becomes more challenging for many girls after giving birth due to the lack of child care support.

https://face2faceafrica.com/

The American astronaut's time on the International Space Station is said to be the longest continuous spaceflight by a female astronaut.

She return to earth on January 6, 2020, having blasted off on 12 March last year.

Her voyage saw her make 5,248 orbits of the Earth, witnessing 16 sunrises and sunsets every day, and travel 223m km, according to The Guardian newspaper.

While in space, Koch recounted her fond memories at the University of Ghana, saying it was a positive, life-changing, perspective-deepening experience.

"Seeing the beauty of Ghana from space reminds me of the amazing people I met there and how in exploring the world, we learn about ourselves," he added.

The US astronaut took a semester to study in Ghana while pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering and Physics at North Carolina State University.

Koch is a NASA astronaut of the class of 2013. She was selected as one of the eight members of the 21st NASA astronaut class.

Her Astronaut Candidate Training included scientific and technical briefings, intensive instruction in International Space Station systems, spacewalks, robotics, physiological training, T-38 flight training, and water and wilderness survival training.

She completed astronaut candidate training in July 2015 and was assigned to her first space flight, a long-duration mission on the International Space Station, in 2018.

On October 18, 2019, Koch was part of the two first women to participate in an all-female spacewalk.

ABU MUBARIK https://www.pulse.com.gh/

‘I’m on my way’ – U.S. actor Wesley Snipes announces Ghana visit

Afrikan

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American superstar Wesley Snipes has served notice he will be visiting Ghana.

This forms part of the government’s 2020 ‘Beyond The Return’ initiative aimed at attracting Diasporans to visit and also invest in the West African country.

The actor, who is widely known as Daywalker, for his role in the award-winning film ‘Blade’, announced his visit in a video. “I am on my way to Accra,” he said.

“You know that my teacher Dr. John Hendrik Clarke, the great grandmaster sat many days under many conditions the great grandmaster Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana and they told me as a grandson of them… always keep Mother Africa in the heart, a united Africa. So to honouring my elders, I am on my way to Accra. The Daywalker is coming to Accra,” Snipes added.

Wesley Snipes was among key listeners at a Ghana

dinner held in Davos as the country’s finance minister Ken Ofori-Atta spoke on investment opportunities in Ghana.

Ghana’s president Akufo-Addo was with American billionaire businessman Robert Smith, Wesley Snipes, Ozwald Boateng, Kojo Annan and a number of important personalities at the event in Davos, Switzerland.

According to Otchere-Darko, they shared “ideas on how to leverage part of the multi-trillion dollar wealth of the African Diaspora to move Ghana and Africa.”

Ghana’s “Year of Return” program saw hundreds of African Americans visit the country to experience the history, culture and tradition upfront. It is planning to attract more investors into the country with another initiative dubbed: ‘Beyond The Return’ 2020.

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3 Nigerian stowaways find themselves in Ghana after they thought ship was sailing to Spain

Three Nigerians who miscalculated their luck hiding in a cargo ship that they thought was sailing to Spain have found themselves in Ghana and in the hands of the police.

Kelvin Popoola, 26, Isaac Daniels, 32 and 28-year-old Nuta were apprehended by authorities in Ghana’s port city of Tema on arrival.

The vessel, MV Unity, left Apapa Port in Nigeria to deliver goods at Tema. But the trio were under the impression that the ship was going to Europe.

They hid behind the ship’s propeller with a few supplies they intended to survive on until they got to their destination.

Port security manager, Colonel Joseph Punamane, was quoted by local site Citi News saying the three men will be repatriated.

“When we get these people, what we do is that we hand them over to the police and immigration. The stowaways are treated as refugees. They will be repatriated to their country so they are not under arrest. We are however in the process to repatriate them,” said Col. Punamane.

Investigations also revealed that one of the men, Daniels, was arrested in Ghana in 2020 for attempting to get himself to Europe through the same means.

Daniels was then repatriated with $600 package back to Nigeria.

https://face2faceafrica.com/

Wesley Snipes is among key listeners at the GHANA Dinner here in Davos as Ken Ofori-Atta speaks on why invest in Ghana.

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Meet Nigeria’s Nosa Ehimwenman; A Cab Driver’s Son Contracted To Renovate Chicago Airport

qualification and Big Ten Championship in the triple jump.

February 2020

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Ethiopia to Build the Largest Airport in Africa

Before joining Bowa, Ehimwenman was with Gilbane Building Company for 10 years. He left his prestigious role at Gilbane Building in July of 2013.

According to the Bowa group website, Ehimwenman managed projects in K-12, Mission Critical, Higher Education, Retail, Healthcare, interior renovations, Higher education, Residential, and Financial Institutions.

At some point, he became one of the youngest senior managers for the Gilbane.

Nigerian-Born Nosa Ehimwenman is the founder of Bowa, one of the fastgrowing construction companies in Chicago.

Bowa has been involved in numerous projects in Chicago including the renovation of a Starbucks concession in Chicago airport, the same airport his father used to hunt for passengers as a cab driver so he could look after his family.

Born in Nigeria, Ehimwenman was brought to the United States at the tender age of six. That was in 1988. Ehimwenman’s father started as a cab driver, before breaking into Real Estate.

Ehimwenman would take over from his father years later winning Chicago’s first airport concessions construction project awarded to an Africa-American prime contractor, according to Africans in America.

“My last name means ‘you have a good spirit,’” said Ehimwenman.

“Sorry, I get a little emotional.”

It reportedly that Bowa has seen 300 percent growth since 2013, when Ehimwenman quit his job with Gilbane Building Co., one of the industry’s largest global construction and facilities management firms, to build his own company.

Bowa’s portfolio includes many projects at the University of Chicago Medical Center and several at O’Hare, including the new O’Hare Police Station Bowa began building last month.

“I got to meet Nosa’s dad today, and to see the look in his eyes, how proud he was of his son, was heartwarming because he’s certainly overcome challenges.

It would be disingenuous for us to say that small minority- and women-owned companies don’t face greater challenges than majority-owned companies,” Chicago Aviation Commissioner Jamie Rhee said as reported by Africans in America.

“But the mayor has made it clear from Day 1 that my job is to remove barriers to entry and building capacity for small businesses. And we’re finding that one “I just remember watching my dad come home late and leave early, driving size truly does not fit all,” she said. for Yellow Taxi, then Checker Cab, and hardly seeing him because he was always working,” the 37-year-old Hyde Park resident said.

“You have small contractors that like the world

“I look back at my parents’ sacrifices, at where we’ve come from. To be standing at O’Hare doing a ribbon-cutting for possibly the largest airport Starbucks in the country, it’s kind of mind-blowing.”

Ehimwenman’s father drove a cab for 15 years to provide for his family.

According to the Bowa Group website, Ehimwenman “has always been a part of the construction industry; one could agree that it is a part of his DNA strand,” realizing during his childhood that nothing comes easy and that he would have to work for the life that he wanted – just like his father.

He worked through high school as a laborer and carpenter with his father on properties in the city of Chicago, gaining a life-long passion for construction and a focused work ethic, the website said.

Ehimwenman holds an MBA from Purdue University and a Bachelors in Construction Systems Management, with a minor in City and Regional Planning from Ohio State University.

He flourished both in and out of the classroom, becoming an All American full-scholarship student-athlete in Track & field while at Ohio State.

Among his many accomplishments on the track, he claimed the Olympic B

Ethiopian Airlines is spending an estimated $5 billion to build the largest airport in Africa. It could also become Africa's busiest airport, capable of handling more passengers than the current busiest hub in Johannesburg, South Africa.

In an interview with the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA), Ethiopian Airlines CEO Tewolde Gebremariam said that the airline completed its 2025 goals seven years ahead of schedule. The airline is now moving onto its 2035 vision, which includes the massive new airport.

%image1

Ethiopian Airlines is currently operating flights out of Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa, the country’s capital.

“The airport looks very beautiful and large, but with the growth that we are [seeing] every year, in about 3 or 4 years, we are going to be full,” Gebremariam told ENA. That being said, they are moving ahead with building the airport, which they are calling Absera.

The Absera Airport will take up about 13 square miles of land in the town of Bishoftu, almost 40 miles south of Addis Ababa. The airport will be able to accommodate about 100 million passengers per year.

The airport wants to become an “airport city,” complete with duty-free shopping malls, hotels, and training centers. The airthey’re in and want to continue operating in that line has not yet announced when the new airport will open, sphere, and then owners like Nosa, who say, ‘I can but it says that it will rival the scale of the new Istanbul do that, and I want to do more.’ We’re breaking up Airport, which is projected to become the world’s largest airthese projects … in a way that promotes participation port when construction is complete in 2028. in 77 community areas.”

Currently, Africa’s busiest airport is O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. In 2018, about 21 million people passed through its doors.

Cailey Rizzo

Afrikan

Post

Is 2020 the Year of Resolution or REVOLUTION

small goal to easily attain. Announce your revolution to everyone around you – they will help hold you accountable.

Ask yourself; is this revolution • my idea or someone else's? Does this revolution motivate and invigorate me?

• Does this revolution sit comfortably with other factors in your life, such as my values and long-term plans?

Rule 2: Be Realistic This simply implies that; making sure the goal is in small increments, so that you can definitely attain it. Do not revolute to do something too big and probably out of reach. It can overkill the purpose and mission you’ve set your path on.

Rule 3: Make the Revolution Stick This means reciting your revolution to First and foremost, I would like to thank you yourself, meditating on it and finding ways to make it work daily. for following and reading my articles. I take this opportunity to welcome you into the year Last but not the least, the most common 2020 and wish you the very best this year; a revolution for most people are to improve year full of extraordinary blessings. This is a health and finances. If you plan on a quality health life, it starts by making small year of CLEAR VISION: 20-20. Make changes in portions of intakes. It is not clear plans and have your vision stick. A recommended to do a drastic change, do it year of FOCUS, Revival, Transformation, slowly in small portions day by day. If Restoration and Contentment. you plan on financial health it is also As most of you know, this forum allows me to share a wealth of information or resources highly recommended you take steps to review your monthly bills such as Cable, with you concerning real estate. Since it is the beginning of the year, I feel compelled to Cell phone, Insurance, etc…. Take time to shop around and compare what competiink something different that speaks to the heart of so many when a new year approach- tors in the market are offering to save you es. That’s New Year Resolution(s). The ques- money. tion then become, do we resolute or revolute Making these changes would position you to experience a revolution this year 2020. when a New Year approaches. The Oxford You will definitely see a difference.

Dictionary defines Resolution as “a firm decision to do or not to do something, whilst Here is a quote to think of: January 1 siga Revolution is a forcible overthrow of some- nifies a new beginning. However, each thing in favor of a new system.” I prefer and day allows for a new beginning, and hence it is a reset. Dr. Roberta Anding, recommend the later. This is a year of Baylor College of Medicine Revolution.

I hope this article has help set you on a Typically, when a new year reigns in, we path to a year of growth and change. We make promises to ourselves as to what we “should" do, or what we should stop doing or will resume our real estate talks/ideas in the next articles to come. what other people suggest we should work In the meantime, if you need any informaon. The focus should rather be what YOU really want to do or actually what YOU want tion about real estate (buying, selling, and leasing/renting a house) call me at 571to achieve. Is not about anybody else, but 229-6694 and I will help you get started.

YOU. Thank you.

To be successful in executing the new changes you want to make for the New Year, . it requires a lot of commitment and motivat- Anita A. Bediako- REALTOR® Samson Properties ing yourself. Here are some simple techniques to implement to make the goals a real- Licensed Real Estate Agent in Virginia and Maryland ity.

Licensed Life and Health Insurance Rule 1: Commit to Your Revolution CONTACT 571-229-6694 Choose revolutions that you really want to Email: borderlessrealestate@gmail.com achieve – and make them positive. The goal Website: borderlessrealestate.com should be simply REASONABLE—a very

February 2020

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US-Trained Pharmacist Facelifts Pharmaceutical Service Provision In Kumasi

Dr. Nyame-Mireku who resigned from his job in the US, last year returned to Ghana to venture into the pharmaceutical sector.

As a result he opened a retail company known as Rany Pharmacy and Wellness Center in the heart of the Garden city of Ghana at Roman Hill.

With the quest to make Rany Pharmacy and Wellness Center, a hub for quality and affordable pharmaceutical services, Dr. Nyame-Mireku has opened a second branch of the pharmacy at Ayeduase at the premises of the Nyame-Mireku Plaza hostel to provide services to the student population of the University of Science and Technology and its environs.

The New facility is a one-stop-shop that comes with retail, wholesale components, an inbuilt clinic, and a laboratory to give clients a holistic health care package.

“When you come to my facility, you will be taken very good care of. For example, you can see a physician who can diagnose you if you need any diagnostic tests, or you can obtain expert medical advice or referral. Or, you could grocery shop while you wait for you medicines or test results. We want you to have the complete experience,” said Dr. Nyame-Mireku to TheAfricanDream.net reporter Mavis Okyere.

“I think the reason why the Pharmacist is easily approachable and the first point-ofcall for many Ghanaians before seeing a Doctor is firstly, you have to make an appointment to go stay in a line for a long time to see a Doctor. You pay for consultation fees and diagnosis as well as for medications. The process is tedious, especially for those without health insurance,” he explained.

He went on to say it is important to have knowledgeable and experienced Pharmacists in various communities in the country because they help save the entire health system so much money.

Dr. Nyame-Mireku also questioned the quality of some drugs on the Ghanaian market, noting that sometimes people do not know whether the drugs they buy are authentic. He says with his links in the US and the UK, he hopes to get some difficult to obtain medications into Ghana at affordable prices.

Before leaving Ghana in 1991, Dr. NyameMireku completed the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Kumasi.

In the US he worked with the Virginia Hospital Center from 2003, rising through the ranks of a Pharmacy Clinical Coordinator.

Read also: Dr. Michael Nana NyameMireku wants Africa to make it enticing for Dr. Nyame-Mireku also holds a second PhD Diaspora Professionals to return to the con- in Organization and Management and a tinent Master’s in Information Technology. He also holds two US pharmacy specialty Dr. Nyame-Mireku told board certifications in Nutrition and TheAfricanDream.net that, since he Pharmacotherapy. returned to Ghana, he realized that the pharmacist is the most accessible and Visit www.facebook.com/ranypharmaaffordable health care provider in the cyandwellnesscenter to learn more about Country: “many times patients will have to Rany Pharmacy and Wellness Center. wait in long queues before being attended to at various health facilities, we want to Written by Mavis Okyere cut the wait time but also make it a great experience in a most professional ambihttps://www.theafricandream.net/ ence,” he said.

Afrikan

Post

Country

2020 African Election Calendar Election

President & National Assembly

Burundi President National Assembly, Local, Collines Senate (indirect)

Comoros

Egypt

National Assembly, Senate & local Union Assembly

House of Representatives

Nov 2020

20 May 2020 June 2020

Jan-Mar 2020 Jan 2020

Apr-May 2020

Ethiopia

House of People's Representatives & Regional State Councils

Ghana

President & National Assembly

Gabon

Senate

May 2020

Late 2020 or early 2021

7 Dec 2020

Guinea

National Assembly

16 Feb 2020

Mali

National Assembmly

May 2020

Ivory Coast

Mauritius

Namibia

President

Municipal

Regional Councils & Local

National Council (indirect by Regional Councils)

Tanzania

Seychelles Somalia Sudan

Togo

Page

Date

https://www.eisa.org.za/

Burkina Faso

Cameroon

February 2020

Oct 2020 2020

Nov 2020

2020

President, National Assembly, Zanzibar House of Representatives & Zanzibar President & Local Oct 2020 President Oct-Dec 2020 House of the People Oct 2020 Council of States, National Assembly, State Legislatures, State Governors, & local 2020 President Apr 2020

35

South African Pastor Mysteriously Dies While Preaching In Church February 2020

A South African pastor died while delivering a sermon before his congregants.

The tragedy, which caused a huge stir on social media, happened at the African Methodist Episcopal Church in Kuruman, Northern Cape.

Per a video footage making rounds, Reverend Bassie Jackals was seen sitting in the middle of his sermon while members of the church applauded him, thinking it was all part of the preaching.

However, Jackals fell to the floor after falling off a chair.

According to Christian Post, Jackals was rushed to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Autopsy report indicates he died as a result of high blood pressure.

Reacting to the video, a social media user, said: “I pray that the family and congregants recover from this. #RIP Reverend Jackals. Indeed you have fought the good fight.”

Reverend Jackals, who left behind four daughters and a wife, was 42 at the time of his death. He was a candidate for the Master of Divinity degree from Payne Theological Seminary in Wilberforce, Ohio before his death.

According to The Zambian Dispatch, the pastor attended Dr. EP Lekhela Secondary School and graduated from the University of Cape Town.

Reacting to the news, Zambian pastor and author, Walter Mwambazi said on Facebook: “He served as a vibrant and dedicated pastor of various congregations of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and was later given an added responsibility to become a Presiding Elder in the church.”

“Passionate about lifting the souls of people through preaching and praise, he led various organizations till his untimely passing,” he added.

Mwambazi said Jackals’ death should be a “wake-up call” to other pastors to rest and delegate tasks to others.

“The death of this man of God should serve us all as a wake-up call – please rest! Take time off,

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have a break please please, please! And find a way to share your responsibility and delegate. Raise lieutenants to help you with His work. It is His work, after all, you and I are just vessels,” he wrote.

His death adds to the growing number of pastors who have died on the pulpit. According to Christian Post, a New Orleans pastor collapsed suddenly and died in the middle of preaching at Great Saint Mary Baptist Church in 2015. He reportedly declared to his congregation: “If the Lord called me now, I’m ready.”

That same year, a pastor in Texas dropped dead before some 200 people while preaching at the funeral of a church member after warning attendees of the need to be “ready for death.”

https://face2faceafrica.com/

36

Afrikan

The City Of Memphis To Honour Ghana In A Month-Long Celebration Post

February 2020

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Kofi Kinaata Pays Courtesy Call On Ghana’s Ambassador to the USA

At the Memphis in May International Festival Annual Meeting at the Memphis Botanic Garden tonight, festival officials reviewed the results of the 2019 festival and announced the Republic of Ghana as the subject of 2020’s cultural salute.

With a population of approximately thirty million, Ghana is situated on the west coast of Africa on the Gulf of Guinea. Early Ghana became a trade destination for many European countries and was known throughout a large part of its history as the Gold Coast due to its rich mineral wealth. Today it is hailed as the golden country of West Africa boasting membership in the United Nations, a stable democracy, and a strong economy fueled by tourism, mining, and oil.

Visitors come from around the world to experience Ghana’s panoramic scenery and diverse wildlife; from national parks featuring elephants, crocodiles and antelopes, to monkey sanctuaries, hippo sanctuaries, picturesque mountains and breathtaking waterfalls. With its location on the coast, Ghana is noted for its numerous forts and castles which were built in the 15th Century by the Europeans. Several prominent American leaders including former President Barack Obama, Speaker Nancy Pelosi and members of the Congressional Black Caucus have visited the Elmina Castle in Cape Coast which is a UNESCO Heritage Site. The coastline also offers many opportunities for relaxation at beautiful resorts situated on their miles of exotic beaches.

Ghana was the first sub-Saharan African country to gain independence from the British in 1957 and was the first to launch a cellular network in 1992, and one of the first African countries with broadband internet connectivity.

Economically, Ghana is proud to be the world’s second largest exporter of cocoa and the largest producer of gold in Africa.

“We look forward to presenting this leader on the African continent and rising star in the global community to Memphis and the Mid-South in May 2020,” said James L. Holt, president and CEO of Memphis in May International Festival. “Rich in natural resources, exports and culture, this is an exciting time for Memphians to discover and explore Ghana.”

The nation of Ghana is looking forward to the salute from Memphis, too. His Excellency Dr. Barfuor AdjeiBawuah, the Republic of Ghana's ambassador to the United States visited Memphis in summer of 2018 to meet with festival officials and city leaders and returned with a small delegation for Memphis in May’s World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest this past May, where he served as a guest judge.

“Ghana is proud to have been selected as the Honored Country for Memphis in May 2020,” said Ambassador Adjei-Bawuah. “We are thankful to the City and the organizers for this honor and we are looking forward to bringing Ghana to Memphis and giving the City and her people an experience of a lifetime. Let us look forward to enjoying Ghana’s culture and the African feeling.”

Each year, Memphis in May International Festival organizes a trip to explore the honored country in advance of the May salute. Board Chair Charles Ewing and President and CEO James L. Holt will lead the trip to Ghana in March 2020. Those interested in the trip may visit the International Tour page on here or call the Memphis in May International Festival office at 901-525-4611 for more information.

In addition to this year’s honored country, the 2020 festival dates were announced as follows:

2020 Memphis in May International Festival Dates Month-long Salute to Ghana: May 1-31, 2020 Beale Street Music Festival: May 1-3, 2020 World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest: May 13-16, 2020 Great American River Run: May 23, 2020

About Memphis in May Memphis in May is a not for profit, community-based organization, whose programs in 2018 contributed more than $137.7 million annually in economic impact to the community, fostered civic pride, promoted awareness of Memphis’ heritage, and built international relationships and understanding through education.

Memphis in May is the official festival of the City of Memphis, the recipient of 211 prestigious Pinnacle Awards from the International Festival and Events Association and has been named to Travel+Leisure’s international list of Festivals Worth Traveling For. The Beale Street Music Festival was named one of the World’s Top Festivals

by Fest300 and made Forbes’ list of “5 Underrated Music Festivals You Should Attend.” In 2018, Memphis topped CNN Travel’s list of international destinations to visit in May specifically because of the Memphis in May events.

https://www.memphisinmay.org/

Kofi Kinaata, one of Ghana's beloved musicians who is popularly known for taking on social issues through his music shared with us that his lyrics are inspired by his observations of social trends.

The singer made these remarks when he paid a courtesy call on Ghana's Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Dr. Barfuor AdjeiBarwuah, on Friday, February 7, 2020 in Washington DC.

Speaking to Angeline Addy, Senior Communications Officer at the Embassy, Kinaata shared his passion for reggae music as a young boy growing up. He intimated that reggae music addressed a lot of social issues and was deeply inspired to do same.

"Addressing social issues through contemporary music is not the most popular thing to do as an artist. In fact you risk losing fans who want to dance and enjoy. But I have resolved to do it because it comes from a deep place in my heart", the Things Fall Apart hit maker argued.

In December of last year, the artist's song, Things Fall Apart, became a big hit in Ghana with his lyrical poignancy focusing on religion and morality.

The Ambassador highly commended Kinaata for creating songs that spur critical thinking and pushes for social discourse on pertinent issues.

Asked if he is working on any new releases, the singer confirmed in the affirmative and assured us that the song will address yet another important issue. Those who love his music wait in anticipation of what this new song will address.

Counting the number of people who voiced that they were proud of Kinaata, it became evident by the time he was leaving that, indeed, he was loved.

Keep up the good work and keep making Ghana proud!

Source:Ghana Embassy-Washington DC

Afrikan

February 2020

Post

Induction Service For Rev. Sam Okyere-Mireku District Minister, Washington Dc District And Minister In Charge, Emmanuel Presbyterian Mission Church, Woodbridge, VA

Rev. James Kumi-Duodu, the Chairperson of North America Australia performing the Act of Induction for Rev. Sam Okyere-Mireku, Washington DC District Minister The Washington DC District in the North America Australia Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana has a New District Minister in the person of the Rev. Sam OkyereMireku. He is also serves as the Minister In Charge of the Emmanuel Presbyterian Mission Church, the Head Station of the Washington DC District located in Woodbridge, VA On January 19, 2020 the Rev. Sam Okyere-Mireku was officially inducted into office by the North America Australia Presbytery. The Officiating Minister for the Induction Service was the Rev. James Joseph Kumi-Duodu, Chairperson of the Presbytery and he was assisted by the Rev. Frank Addo, Clerk of the Presbytery. In attendance at the Induction service were some ministers of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana in the Presbytery and the District, other Ministers from other Church Denominations in the Woodbridge, VA area and members of the Ghanaian community in the area.

It is also worth mentioning that leaders and members of all the congregations and Preaching Posts which come together to form the District attended the Induction Service in their numbers.

Preaching the Sermon on the theme: “Behold, the Servant of the Lord” Rev. James Joseph Kumi-Duodu admonished the new District Minister to rely only on the power and guidance of God in the discharge of his duty and mandate as the Chief servant of the District. Again, the Presbytery Chairperson called on the Presbyters and other officers of the church not forgetting members of the church in both the District and the local congregation to give of their maximum cooperation and support to the District Minister so that together

they can work and achieve much and also lift up the image of the church in the District for the glory of God. In a short address after the Act of Induction, the Rev. Sam Okyere-Mireku, the District Minister of the Washington DC District gave thanks to God for his help that has brought him this far. He also acknowledged with gratitude the support that his wife, children and entire family not forgetting friends and other senior ministers of God in the church continue to give to him and his ministry. He outlined his vision for the District and the congregation.

Among other things, he mentioned promotion of spiritual renewal through prayer and the study of the word of God, growth to existing congregations and planting of new ones, financial discipline aimed at ensuring financial wellness, church discipline and compliance to church policies. He finally used Nehemiah 2:18 to call on members of the church in the District to look at the current state of the District and the congregation and resolve to rise up so that together they can build for the glory of God. The Rev. Sam Okyere-Mireku is an ordained minister of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana. He was born on November 3 to Rev.& Mrs Otchere-Mireku, both natives of Bepong-Kwahu in the Eastern Region of Ghana.

He holds Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology and Management from the University of Ghana, Legon and a Master’s Degree in Divinity from the Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Austin, TX Before his appointment as the District Minister of the Washington DC District, He was serving as the Minister in Charge of the Resurrection congregation in Dallas/ Fort Worth Metroplex in the State of Texas. He has also worked in the fields of Education, Clinical Research, Immigration and Pastoral Chaplaincy in Ghana and United States of America The Rev. Sam Okyere-Mireku is married to Mrs Justina Okyere-Mireku and they are blessed with three children.

Brief History of the Emmanuel Presbyterian Mission Church, Woodbridge, VA, the Head Station of the Washington DC District in the North America Australia Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana Emmanuel Presbyterian Mission Church (EPMC) located at13403 Baxter St, Woodbridge, VA 22191 was established as a response to the Great Commission of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, as written in Matt. 28: 19- 20, and reiterated by the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, a group of dedicated immigrant Presbyterian Christians in the United States of America, Virginia who were also members of Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG) started EPMC in the year 2004.

In the past sixteen years since its founding, EPMC under the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG) and in North America Australia Presbytery of the church, has played a major role by bringing together Ghanaian immigrants’ community of true believers under the direction and leadership of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

EPMC is a church home and a house of prayer where seekers or new members are welcomed with the love of Christ. It is a place where believers are motivated and empowered with the word of God to be worthy ambassadors of Christ as they live their lives in the community

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and impact on others with the good news for the glory of God.EPMC also provides for the maintenance of worship, the edification of the body of Christ and the redemption of humankind.

The Rev. Sam Okyere-Mireku, District Minister-Washington DC District

Mrs. Justina Okyere-Mireku and some other Ministers’ spouses in the Presbytery.

Rev. & Mrs Sam Okyere-Mireku, The Washington DC District Minister, wife and children

Afrikan

Induction Service For Rev. Sam Okyere-Mireku District Minister, Washington Dc District And Minister In Charge, Emmanuel Presbyterian Mission Church, Woodbridge, VA Post

February 2020

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EPMC Men’s Fellowship

Ministers and their Spouses Present at the Induction Service

Some Ministers, Catechists, Caretakers, Presbyters, Ministers’ Spouses Present

EPMC Singing Band EPMC, Woodbridge VA Choir,

Cross section of members and invited persons present

From R-L Dr. Samuel Agyem Bediako - District Clerk Mr. Eric Frimpong District - Lay Rep Mr. Paul Osei Akrasi-Senior Presbyter, Emmanuel Presbyterian Mission Church Mrs. Cynthia Boamah-Session Clerk, Emmanuel Presbyterian Mission Church

EPMC Women’s Fellowship

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