Afrikan post june 2015 online version

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Vol 7 Issue 6

African Community News

South African Airways Wins "Best Airline in Africa" Skytrax Award Page 8 For The 13th Consecutive Year


Facts about Africa

Afrikan Post

June 2015

From the Editor

O u r G r ea tes t G lor y is n o t in n ever f a llin g b u t in r is in g ever y time we f a ll . We ar e committted to b r in gin 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 p or a .  Yo u may als o vis it o u r webs ite a t www.af r ik an po s t.com f or d a ily n ews u p da tes o n Af r ica . D is cla imer : Th e o p in ion s ex pr es s ed in ar ticles a n d s to r ies in th is N ews pa per ar e th os e o f th e a u th o r s a n d d o n o t n eces s ar ily r ef lect th e views o f Af r ik an Po s t . All co mmen ts a n d s u g g es tio n s a r e welcome.

George Bright-Abu Publisher and Editor

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D E PA R T M E N T S Vol 7 Issue 6 CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT

Mr. Ibu Weds Pg. 18

Ghanaian scientist inducted into American National Academy of Inventors Pg. 7

Bringing Electricity To Millions Of Households In Over 20 African Countries Pg. 11

Keeping Your Charge Pg. 20

SPORTS Nigerian billionaire Aliko

Dangote wants to buy Arsenal Pg. 39

UPDATE 13 & 15 Yrs Old, Nigerian Brothers Built Mobile Web Browsering Alternative To Google Chrome Pg. 7

Population: 1 billion, two and half times the number of people living in South America. Land Area: 130,343,580 square kilometres (11,715,720 square miles) which is a fifth of the total land area of the Earth. Countries: 54. How many can you name? Highest Peak: Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania rises to 5,895 metres (19,341 feet) above sea level. Largest Lake: Lake Victoria is 68,800 square kilometres (26,564 square miles) in area and is divided between three countries, Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. Smallest Country (by land area): The Seychelles, a group of 115 islands located north east of Madagascar. Biggest Country: Algeria, the tenth biggest country in the world. Smallest Nation (of people): Gambia. Languages: over 2,000 different languages. Africa is also home to some of the fastest long distance runners in history, like Haile Gebrselassie from Ethiopia who won Olympic Golds in the 10,000 metre track event. This continent consists of 54 countries including the world’s newest nation South Sudan, created in 2011 after an overwhelming public vote. Welcome to the world South Sudan! Africa is made up of many different cultures; from Black Africans to the Arab peoples of North Africa, and White Africans, descended from the generations of European settlers that arrived, from the Netherlands, Great Britain and Germany. As a result the number of languages spoken here is huge - there are 500 languages spoken in Nigeria alone. Jambo! Have you heard of Zulu, Swahili, Sotho and Tswana? Of the 1 billion people living in Africa today the differences between rich and poor here are stark. In subSaharan Africa (the area south of the Sahara Desert), eight of ten people live on less than £1.50 ($2.50) a day. But in Africa’s wealthiest cities, like Cairo and Johannesburg, foreign sports cars and grand mansion houses can been seen. Mobile phones are not just for the rich, though, in Africa. For example, more than 100,000,000 people in Nigeria use a mobile phone well over half the population – allowing them to work,trade and simply stay in touch. Africa has immense wealth, like precious metals, under the ground. African countries produce one third of the world’s gold supply of which half comes from South Africa. The picture below is of a gold mine in Zimbabwe. The mound in front contains 20 tonnes of gold ore, which is ready for treatment. One of the continent’s richest nations, South Africa, is also the source of most of the world’s platinum and half of global chromium (the chemical element you add to iron to get the stainless steel your knife, fork and spoon are made out of). The Democratic Republic of Congo boasts 30% of the world’s diamond reserves, but war over decades within this country has affected its people, including its children. Other countries, like Libya and Nigeria have been made wealthy by selling oil. However there are many Africans whose lives remain untouched by this money. More than half of Africa’s workers remain subsistence

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farmers, growing just enough for their families to live on, without water on tap or a reliable supply of electricity. Millions of people visit Africa on holiday to see its famous historic sites – the most popular is the Great Pyramid of Giza, found just outside the Egyptian capital city Cairo. They also come to admire the continent’s natural beauty and to see its varied and wonderful wildlife, with many visitors taking safari trips. Africa is a land mass big enough to fit Europe into three times over. From South Africa’s Cape of Good Hope to the Suez Canal in Egypt it is 7,300 km (or 4,540 miles). Africa is larger than China, USA, India, Mexico and a big part of Europe combined. Animals Home to the largest mammals known to man and an amazing abundance of wildlife. Creature Feature: African Elephants

Creature World: Africa The Cheetah Spot African Lion Leopard Nile Crocodile Wildebeests

Explorers

Mary Kingsley (1862-1900) The greatest of all women explorers. Sir Richard Francis Burton (1821-1890)

Dr. David Livingstone (1813-1873) Explored the interior of Africa.

John Speke (1827 - 1864) Discovered Lake Victoria the largest source of the Nile River. Isabelle Eberhardt (1877-1904) was an explorer who lived and traveled extensively in North Africa. Climate

Much of Africa has a tropical or desert climate. Africa has the largest tropical area of any continent. The equator runs through the middle of Africa, and about 90 % of the continent lies within the tropics. Land Africa is a land of enormous mountains, tropical rainforests, grassy savannas, three large deserts, and the world's longest river. http://www.oddizzi.com http://www.interesting-africa-facts.com/


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Two New African Ambassadors Present Letters of Credence at White House

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They are: * His Excellency Necton Darlington Mhura, Ambassador of the Republic of Malawi * His Excellency Faycal Gouia, Ambassador of the Republic of Tunisia

The presentation of credentials is a traditional ceremony that marks the formal beginning of an Ambassador’s service in Washington. Source:amipnewsonline.com

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South African Airways Expands West Africa Network With New Service Between Washington, D.C. & Accra, Ghana

Special introductory fare of $899*round-trip (restrictions apply) To celebrate the only route between Washington D.C. and Accra

Fort Lauderdale, FL (May 27, 2015) – South African Airways (SAA), Africa’s most awarded airline, will launch new nonstop service between Washington, D.C.-Dulles International Airport and Accra’s Kotoka International Airport on August 3, 2015. With the introduction of this new flight, SAA will be providing the only nonstop flight between Washington D.C. and Ghana, as well as the only Skytrax 4-Star rated airline service and world-class quality from North America to the entire West Africa region. South African Airways also offers convenient connections from over 50 markets in the U.S. and Canada through its airline partners United Airlines, JetBlue Airways and Virgin America via Washington, D.C.-Dulles.

On Monday, May 18, 2015, two new African Ambassadors to the U.S. presented their Letters of Credence to President Obama at an Ambassador Credentialing Ceremony in the Oval Office at the White House.

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“This is a major development and achievement for the airline as part of our strategic growth on the African continent. With an expanded presence in West Africa, in the form of nonstop services to both Accra and Dakar from Washington D.C., our customers will soon have access to more destinations in the region,” says Nico Bezuidenhout, South African Airways’ Acting Chief Executive Officer.

South African Airways’ flights to Accra will be available four days a week with continuing service to Johannesburg, South Africa, operating on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. SAA will reduce its current flights from Washington D.C.-Dulles to Dakar, Senegal and onwards to Johannesburg, to three days a week, operating on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.

To celebrate the launch of this new route, South African Airways offers special introductory fares of $899* round-trip (restrictions apply), available for purchase from May 27 to June 26, 2015, for travel between August 3 and October 31, 2015.

“We are delighted to launch the only flight from Washington D.C. to Accra, as we are continually committed to offer convenient service and our unique blend of African hospitality between North America and Africa,” said Marc Cavaliere, Executive Vice President for South African Airways in North America. “Ghana is quickly becoming a strong international business destination in Africa and this new route is going to make travel to the region easier for many travelers from North America. We look forward to welcoming them on board and offering our award-winning service.” SAA flights will be operated on wide-body Airbus A340-600 aircraft, featuring 42 full-flat 180° beds in Premium Business Class and 275 seats in Economy Class, ergonomically designed with adjustable headrests and industry-leading legroom of up to 34” for long-haul travel. Customers traveling in both Premium Business Class and Economy Class will enjoy an extensive menu of on-demand audio and visual entertainment options, freshly prepared meals and complimentary bar service featuring award-winning South African wines. This new route is part of South African Airways’ continued expansion in North America, where the airline is the only carrier to offer daily nonstop service from New York -JFK International Airport to Johannesburg, South Africa.

The new flight schedule is as follows (all times are local): Washington D.C. – Accra – Johannesburg

SA #210 (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday)

SA #209 (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday) Depart Washington D.C – IAD: 5.40pm Depart Johannesburg, South Africa: 5.25pm Arrive Accra, Ghana: 7.40am +1 Arrive Accra, Ghana: 9.45pm Depart Accra, Ghana: 8.40am +1 Depart Accra, Ghana: 10.45pm Arrive Johannesburg, South Africa: 4.30pm +1 Arrive Washington D.C – IAD: 6.05am +1 Washington D.C. – Dakar – Johannesburg

SA #208 (Wednesday, Friday, Sunday)

SA #207 (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday) Depart Washington D.C – IAD: 5.40pm Depart Johannesburg, South Africa: 6.30pm Arrive Dakar, Senegal: 5.50am +1 Arrive Dakar, Senegal: 01.05am+1 Depart Dakar, Senegal: 6.50am +1 Depart Dakar, Senegal: 2.05am+1 Arrive Johannesburg, South Africa: 5.15pm +1 Arrive Washington D.C – IAD: 6.25am +1

Tickets for the new service to Accra are now available for sale. For reservations and information, customers should visit www.flysaa.com or contact South African Airways’ North America Reservations Center at 1-(800) 722-9675, or their professional travel consultant.

### About South African Airways South African Airways (SAA), South Africa’s national flag carrier and the continent’s most awarded airline, serves 67 destinations worldwide in partnership with SA Express, Airlink and its low cost carrier Mango. In North America, SAA operates daily nonstop flights from New York-JFK and direct flights from Washington D.C.-IAD (via Accra, Ghana and Dakar, Senegal) to Johannesburg. SAA has codes share agreements with United Airlines, Air Canada and JetBlue Airways, which offer convenient connections from more than 30 cities to SAA’s flights. SAA is a Star Alliance member and the recipient of the Skytrax 4-Star rating for 13 consecutive years.

*Terms and conditions Fares include all government and airline imposed taxes and fees. The $899 fare is valid for round-trip travel from Washington D.C. – IAD to Accra, Ghana. Travel is permitted between 08/03/2015 and 10/31/2015. Minimum stay of three days is required. Tickets must be purchased within 72 hours of reservation being made. Seats are limited and may not be available on all flights. Fares must be purchased by 06/26/2015. Cancellations before/after departure: fares and fuel surcharge (YR/YQ/Q) are non-refundable. Date change fee: $300 + any applicable fare difference. Baggage and optional service fees may apply. Reservations made 7 days or more prior to scheduled departure may be canceled without penalty up to 24 hours after the reservation is made.


US Based FM Station Donates Items To Kumasi Children’s Home June

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Rev. Mrs. Bertha Domfeh making a presentation to the orphanage Officials of Deliverance FM, a U.S based media organization have donated clothing and food items worth Ghs12,000 to the Kumasi Children’s home. Deliverance FM USA is an internet radio station based in Cleveland , Ohio and operated by Pastor Harry and his spouse Reverend Bertha Domfeh . The Christian couple for the past two years embark on missionary work in Ghana every year and commit their earnings to support the needy. The kind gesture which has won the admiration of some Kumasi based movie actors accompanied Rev. Bertha Domfeh to the Kumasi Children’s home to donate food and clothing to the children. Local movie personalities including Bill Asamoah, Mercy Asiedu and Kyeiwaa were present during the presentation. Rev. Mrs. Bertha Domfeh admonished Ghanaians in the Diaspora to play meaningful roles in their lives of the children by providing the needed support to the home.


13 & 15 Yrs Old, Nigerian Brothers Built Mobile Web Browsering Alternative To Google Chrome

They say necessity is the mother of invention and this is sure the case when it comes to 13 and 15 year old, Nigerian brothers Anesi and Osine Ikhianosime. Their necessity is their need for a faster mobile web browsing experience…because who wants to wait a few extra seconds for Google Chrome to load when you can build a better browser?

The dynamic coding duo are your ordinary African teenagers. They attend school in Greensprings school, Anthony Campus, Lagos. They love their friends, soccer, to have fun and coding, obviously.

mobile web browserThe young problem solvers got tired of waiting for Google Chrome to load on their mobile phones, so decided to do something about it instead of complain. They decided to build a better mobile browser last year and called it Crocodile Browser Lite. It is currently live and ready for your download in the Google Play store right now.

from their school. They did take advantage of free resources. “I learnt to code by myself. I startede in 2013, I used sites like Code Academy, Code Avenger and books like ‘Android for Game Development’ and ‘Games for Dummies,” said Anesi.

The plan to create a better browser for low end featured phones is one that is needed for the developing world. While Chrome and other browsers work great on high end smart phones, the majority of the world are not using this technology and need a low-end option that still provides quick browers response, so this is what the young men did. They built a better mouse trap for the phones they were using.

Crocodile Browser Lite 3.0 will be available this year in the Google Play store and something you should check out to give the young people support. They currently have over 500 downloads of their browser, but hoping to see it grow in the near future.

Their future plans are to attend MIT in the Raised by parents who believe education and technology is very important to the lives of all, United States because they feel the educational opportunities, resources and access to they were raised with high aspirations in mind. Their mother says they were able to use technology are exactly what they need to positively impact the future as then intend. the computer before they know how to read and have always been fascinated with technolHats off to these young men and their famiogy, creating, building and solving problems. ly! By the age of 7 & 9, the duo knew they wanted to start their own technology company. Inspired by Microsoft Windows platform, they http://urbanintellectuals.com/ decided to name their company “Doors”. However, later they discovered that the name was taken, so they changed it to Blu Doors”, which is still the current name of the company.

At the ages of 12 and 14, they decided to take on the task of learning how to code. They taught themselves, but had much encouragement, inspiration and access to computers

World Bank Group and African Development Bank hold first Diaspora Trade Forum in Washington DC June 2015

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The World Bank Group's first Annual African Diaspora Trade Forum will bring together donors, entrepreneurs, investors, and others who are looking to create trade, investment, and mentorship opportunities in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The main goal of this year's forum is to engage and incentivize entrepreneurs and investors in the African Diaspora who are looking to create trade, investment, and mentorship opportunities in Sub-Saharan Africa. The World Bank Group Headquarters J Building on 701 18th street NW in Washington DC will be the venue for this event. The potential wealth and talent existing in the African Diaspora is enormous. Some researchers estimate that US$53 billion is saved on an annual basis by the African Diaspora. Additionally, it is estimated that by 2040 Africa will have a larger workforce than China or India.

All of this will require targeted new enterprise growth in areas that can enhance food supply, healthcare services, and educational solutions, particularly in the area of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) within local communities.

At its core, the forum will be an opportunity for participants to interact with and hear from various demographics in the African diaspora, highlighting their successes and failures in doing business throughout the African continent. Speakers will include diaspora early-stage investors and entrepreneurs as well as donor partners who will discuss existing programs which are being implemented to take advantage of the diaspora's potential to boost trade and investment.

In addition, preliminary results from a pilot survey on the Africa diaspora will be shared for the first time at the forum. Developed by the World Bank Group's Trade and Competitiveness Global Practice, this survey has been designed to gather data on the engagement of African diaspora individuals with origins from eight African countries, and focuses on their business activities in the following areas: agribusiness, consumer products, energy, climate change, financial services/inclusion, and tourism.

While still in its pilot phase, the survey will provide some insight into the activities of diaspora communities in developing trade, investment, and technical assistance opportunities with their countries of origin.

By sparking animated discussions, the forum aims to be a point collaboration between all attendees, leading to the discovery of partnerships and potential synergies with a variety of stakeholders invested in strengthening the African continent through trade and investment opportunities.

This event’s core team is composed of John Speakman; Practice Manager, Trade and Competitiveness Global Practice. Lucy Fye; Senior Private Sector Development Specialist, Nii Simmonds; Private Sector Development Specialist, Beverley Mbu and Donald Agaba who are both consultants. Source: World Bank Group


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South African Airways Wins "Best Airline in Africa" Skytrax Award For The 13th Consecutive Year

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., June 16, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- South African Airways (SAA), Africa's most awarded airline, has been named "Best Airline in Africa" by Skytrax for the thirteenth consecutive year. Responses from air travelers to the Skytrax survey also ensured that SAA was honored with the award for "Best Airline Staff in Africa" for the fourth time. The awards for "Best Airline Staff" are special and coveted accolades, as they represent the combined quality performance of an airline's front-line staff, including the on-board cabin crew and airport customer service staff. Mango, SAA's low-cost carrier, received the award for "Best Low-Cost Airline in Africa". The awards were presented at the Skytrax World Airline Awards ceremony during the Paris Air Show, Le Bourget.

The awards are based on a consumer satisfaction survey conducted each year by Skytrax, an independent aviation research organization. This year, the survey elicited responses from 18-million business and leisure air travelers from 160 countries, covering more than 200 airlines, from the largest international airlines to smaller domestic carriers. The online survey is open for a 10-month period, giving passengers an opportunity to rate their experience in the air and on the ground. It measures satisfaction across 41 key performance indicators of airline front-line product and service including check-in, boarding, on-board seat comfort, cabin cleanliness, food, beverages, inflight entertainment and staff service. "It is a distinguished honor to, once again, receive these awards. We are committed to excellence and strongly believe that an outstanding customer experience is what makes a great airline," said Marc Cavaliere, Executive Vice President for South African Airways in North America. "SAA is proud to be the only Skytrax 4-Star airline flying between the U.S. and Africa, and we are pleased that travelers recognize us as the best way to travel to Africa." South African Airways offers the most daily flights between the U.S. and South Africa with nonstop service from New York-JFK Airport and direct service from Washington, DC-Dulles Airport to Johannesburg. SAA currently offers daily nonstop service between Washington, DC-Dulles Airport and Dakar, Senegal, and beginning August 3rd, will launch a new nonstop flight four days per week between Washington, D.C.-Dulles International Airport and Accra's Kotoka International Airport.

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For reservations and information, customers should visit www.flysaa.com or contact South African Airways' North America Reservations Center at 1-(800) 722-9675, or their professional travel consultant.

About South African Airways South African Airways (SAA), South Africa's national flag carrier and the continent's most awarded airline, serves 67 destinations worldwide in partnership with SA Express, Airlink and its low cost carrier Mango. In North America, SAA operates daily nonstop flights from New York-JFK and direct flights from Washington D.C.-IAD (via Accra, Ghana* and Dakar, Senegal) to Johannesburg. SAA has codes share agreements with United Airlines, Air Canada and JetBlue Airways, which offer convenient connections from more than 30 cities to SAA's flights. SAA is a Star Alliance member and the recipient of the Skytrax 4-Star rating for 13 consecutive years. *Flights between Washington, DC-Dulles Airport and Accra, Ghana begin August 3, 2015 http://www.cbs8.com

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Nigerian Chinedu Echeruo Hits Big Bringing Electricity To Millions Of Households In Over 20 African As Apple Buys His Website Countries ‘Hopstop.com’ For $1Bn June

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Journal publication, Apple has bought Mr. Chinedu Echeruo’s Hopstop.com for one billion dollars.

The Nigerian founded Hopstop.com in 2005. makes mobile applications for both iOS and Android that covers over 300 cities and that helps people get directions or find nearby subway stations and bus stops.

The Billion dollar website by Nigerian Chinedu Echeruo

According to AllThingsDigital, a Wall Street

Terms of the deal are yet to be disclosed. Source:bbcnews.com

Jonathan Gets Nomination for Nobel

Senegalese-American musician and record producer Akon is well known for lighting up the stage and the music charts. But now he’s set his sights on a more important mission than delighting music fans: supplying electricity to 600 million Africans who currently lack access to the grid. He has started an initiative called Akon Lighting Africa. Its first project is the launch of a Solar Academy in Bamako, Mali. The faculty at the academy, which is scheduled to open this summer, will help African engineers and entrepreneurs develop skills that will enable them to produce solar-powered microgrids and make it easier to acquire the necessary equipment.

Africa has the lowest percentage of inhabitants with access to national grids, but has

By Ebriku John Friday

A public policy organisation on African affairs, the Africa Political and Economic Strategic Center (AFRIPOL) has recommended former President Goodluck Jonathan for the Nobel Peace Prize.

The organisation noted that the will of Alfred Nobel, the progenitor of Nobel Prize stated that Peace Prize be awarded to whoever "shall have done the most or the best work for fraternity between nations, for the abolition or reduction of standing armies and for the holding and promotion of peace congresses".

Accordingly the organisation the 'peaceful way President Jonathan conceded to Presidentelect Buhari deserves the attention of Nobel Peace Prize committee. He may have not promoted "fraternity between nations" but he surely promoted fraternal peace among Nigerians by conceding power.'

The group maintained that the "concession speech by President Jonathan averted bloodshed, violence and imbroglio in the most populous country in Africa. This gesture by Jonathan [sic] buttressed to the whole world that Nigeria has joined the comity of civilized nations".

the benefit of 320 days of sun each year on average. Harnessing that solar energy will not only allow Africans to use electronic gadgets, but also create a new category of tech jobs that could boost the standard of living across the continent. “We expect the Africans who graduate from this center to devise new, innovative, technical solutions,” Thione Niang, one of Akon Lighting Africa’s cofounders, told Reuters. “With this academy, we can capitalize on Akon Lighting Africa and go further.”

The group announced the launch of the academy late last month at the second United Nations Sustainable Energy for All Forum, in New York City. http://spectrum.ieee.org

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Embassy Of Ghana, Washington's Reaction To The 3rd June, 2015 Floods In Accra And Measures It Is Taking To Support Victims Of The Fire Explosion And Floods.

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Governor Of The State Of Georgia Congratulates Dr. Thomas Mensah

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Flood And Gas Explosion Disaster In Accra Central

It Was With Shock And Profound Grief That The Mission Received The News Of The Devastating Flood And Gas Explosion That Struck Accra Central, On Wednesday 3rd June, 2015. 2.The Mission Is Very Much Saddened By This Catastrophe And The Unfortunate Casualties In Human Lives And The Extensive Damage To Property In The Affected Communities. I Wish, Therefore, To Convey, On Behalf Of Staff Of The Mission, Ghanaian Diaspora In The U.S. And In My Own Name, Our Deepest Sympathies To H.E. The President And Entire Ghanaian Population And Particularly To The Bereaved Families. 4.We Remain Hopeful That The Recovery Efforts Undertaken By The Government Will Succeed In Bringing Some Relief And Assistance To The Affected People. 5.Warm Regards.

Singed Lt. Gen. Joseph Henry Smith (Rtd.) Head Of Mission

The Embassy of Ghana in Washington, D.C. wish to announce that as a result of the recent loss of human lives and property in Accra due to the heavy downpour and the fire incident at the Goil filling station at the Kwame Nkrumah Circle, it is, in collaboration with the leadership of the Ghanaian Associations and Clergy, coordinating all efforts to assist and support the victims of the disaster. A committee comprised of Officers from the Embassy, the Council of Ghanaian Associations and the Clergy has been set up to strategies and coordinate all efforts to help the Government assist the victims and rebuild the local community in the short, medium and long term. All Ghanaians and friends of Ghana are being called upon to join the Embassy in this endeavor. Contact for enquires:- James Asiedu-Pani Tel No:- 202 686 4505

Dr. Mensah (right) with the NAI Plaque congratulated by Governor Deal of Georgia Governor John Nathan Deal of the State of Georgia in the United States of America (USA) personally met with and congratulated Dr. Thomas Mensah, the US trained Scientist and fiber optics inventor for his induction into the USA National Academy of Inventors (NAI).

The meeting which happened in the Governor’s office at the State Capitol afforded Dr. Mensah the opportunity to personally show his NAI medal and plaque to Governor Dean who then expressed his profound appreciation to the Inventor and Scientist.

In March 2015 the Georgia legislature agreed on Resolution 646 to commend the works of Dr. Mensah, saying it was found “abundantly fitting and proper that the outstanding accomplishments of this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be appropriately recognized”.

Resolution 646 goes on to further say that “The House of Representatives commend Dr. Thomas Mensah on his tremendous contributions to fiber optics technologies and his service to his community, this state, and the nation”.

Dr. Mensah, CEO of Georgia Aerospace who is one of the two Scientists from Georgia to be inducted into the NAI says he is deeply humbled by these recognitions and hoped that people all over the world, especially youths see that they too can become whatever they set themselves to if they work hard because greatness is color blind, which is why he wrote the book The Right Stuff Comes in Black, Too. This books is available on Amazon.

On his book, Dr Mensah says: “as one of the three Blacks Inducted as a Fellow of the NAI among

167 Inventors, I felt it was important that this book be published to reach global audience” Through this book, Dr. Mensah in plain language shows that anyone irrespective of their racial background has an equal opportunity to attain the highest level of competence and real ize significant achievements provided they are willing to discover their inborn talents and work harder to perfect them.

Members of the Georgia legislature who have spoken highly of Dr. Mensah recently include Ed Setzler of Georgia’s 35th district in the House of Representatives; the member of the Science and Technology Committee Mike Dudgeon who is serving as the state Representative for District 25 which covers the southern part of Forsyth County and the northern parts of Johns Creek in Fulton in Georgia; and Representative Mable Thomas of the 56th District in Georgia, also member of the Scienc and Technology Committee in the legislature.

John Nathan Deal — the 82nd Governor of Georgia — met with Dr. Mensah at his mansion in October 2013 as the host of a reception for the President of Ghana — John Mahama — during the President’s visit to the USA.

Dr. Mensah studied at Montpellier University in France, hols a postgraduate certificate from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Modeling and Simulation of Chemical Processes and is today known for acquiring 7 US Patents in Fiber Optics within a space of 6 years. Oral Ofori


The 10 Most Beautiful Cities and Towns in Africa

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The African continent is not only about impressive animals, stunning deserts and beautiful savannahs. It is also home to astonishing cities and towns which are rich in history and culture and have their own character, stories and beauty. Here is a list of the 10 most charming cities and towns to visit in Africa.

Cape Town | South Africa Cape Town is a vibrant and colourful city with stunning beaches, beautiful mountains and some of the best wine farms in Africa. Taking the cable car ride to the top of Table Mountain at sunrise or sunset to take in the beautiful views is a must. That is usually enough for people to admit that Cape Town is by far one of the top beach cities worldwide, and a very photogenic one too. With all the sophistication and facilities that can be found in efficient urban areas, this seaside playground certainly has enough to offer to everyone.

Kigali | Rwanda Not only is Kigali beautiful, it is also the cleanest and safest capital city in the continent. The fact that it is so green and hilly certainly adds to the aesthetic allure of the place. It is not surprising thus that Kigali is considered to be one of the most liveable cities in Africa! With impressive urban development plans and efficiency in road construction, Kigali has become a well organised and structured city which gives its visitors and inhabitants a feeling of peacefulness and serenity. Indeed, nothing beats the views that you can get from the top of the numerous beautiful hills.

Essaouira | Morocco With an ancient medina and beautiful fortifications which date back to the 18th century, kilometres of lstunning beaches, and a charming harbour and fish market to stroll around, Essaouira is one the most beautiful towns to visit on the continent. It guarantees moments of peace and tranquility far away from the mayhem of bigger cities and the charmless all-inclusive resorts of Morocco. As the wind and currents are quite strong, it is the perfect spot to windsurf and kitesurf. In addition to being a picturesque coastal town, Essaouira is thus also a watersport-lover's paradise.

e - Luxor | Egypt Once ancient Egypt’s capital called Thebes, Luxor has attracted many travellers and Egyptologists since the ce 19th century. They come in search of ancient wonders which still dominate the city’s landscape. The name ‘Luxor’ itself is translated by ‘Palaces’. Luxor is now a beautiful city with spectacular sceneries of the Nile river and desert landscapes, and a vibrant city life. It is n also home to the remains of the tombs of the Pharaohs, — the beautiful temple of Karnak, the temple of Hatshepsut; the only woman who has ever been a Pharaoh, and the stunning Valley of the Kings among others. The last two are most beautiful at dawn when viewed from up in the sky while on a hot air balloon ride. Djenne | Mali The town of Djenne is one of the oldest in the country. Indeed, its establishment dates back to the years 800 BC. It is a fascinating and beautiful place with mud brick houses decorated with paint. And not only are homes made out of mud, mosques are too. In fact, the largest and most creative mud-made building with wooden sticks coming out of the walls; namely the

Grand Mosque, lies in Djenne. With its magnificent mud-made sights, this is certainly a town which is unique.

Stone Town | Tanzania Right off the coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean, the island of Zanzibar is one which combines a fascinating and rich history to beautiful white sand beaches with crystal clear waters, and Stone Town is its cultural heart. Over the last 200 years, little has changed in this old city. Extravagant houses with carved wooden doors, the Sultan’s palace, winding alleys and narrow streets, and animated bazaars make Stone Town one of the most fascinating places to wander around. No wonder that this Swahili coastal trading town has been classified as a UNESCO world heritage site.

Mozambique City | Mozambique Located on the tiny 3 kilometre-long island of Mozambique, Mozambique is a picturesque and stunning fortified city. It used to be a Portuguese trading post on the way to India. Since the 16th century, the place has kept its impressive architectural unity. Buildings are all made out of the same materials and decorative ideas, and using the same techniques. The architecture also reflects the melting pot of cultures present on the island. Portuguese influences, just as much as local ones, and Arab and Indian traditions to a lesser extent can all be felt. This exceptionally pleasant town is today, one of the most fascinating towns in the region.

Windhoek | Namibia Windhoek, Namibia’s largest city and capital, is a tidy and modern city with stunning pastel-painted buildings and traditional German houses. Wandering through the city centre of Windhoek will instantly reveal the beauty of the place. The ambiance there is usually laid-back. As it is a somewhat small, pedestrian friendly city, it is quite walkable. Together with the modern skyscrapers, neo-baroque cathedrals and German ‘castles’ dominate the city’s skyline. Windhoek is a hassle free and cosmopolitan city that is very pleasant to walk around.

Lamu | Kenya Lamu is a very relaxing and laid-back coastal town in Kenya. The only thing that could occasionally disturb the quietness of the place is the braying donkey or the call to prayer from the many mosques. It is, in fact, one of Africa’s best preserved Swahili settlements and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Travellers can spend hours strolling around the beautiful, narrow alleys in the old town. They can also relax at the nearby Shela Beach. Lamu is one of the best places to chill out, and adopt a slow, coastal lifestyle.

Bahir Dar | Ethiopia Wide streets with lines of palm trees and stunning river views make up Bahir Dar’s landscape; the beautiful capital of the Amhara region, and the third biggest city in Ethiopia. Located on the shores of the stunning Lake Tana, the city is home to some of the oldest monasteries and churches in the world. Visiting them is a must, and there are many boat tours to take travellers. The Blue Nile Falls are also one of the most spectacular sights to see in Ethiopia, and are only a short distance away from Bahir Dar.

By Sarine Arslanian http://theculturetrip.com

June 2015

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50 Africa’s Most Populated Cities

1. Lagos – Nigeria (21,029,000) 2. Cairo – Egypt (7,764,700)

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32. Brazzaville – Congo (1,133,800)

3. Kinshasa – Congo Democratic Republic (6,301,100)

33. Yaounde – Cameroon (1,122,500)

5. Casablanca – Morocco (3,344,300)

34. Maputo – Mozambique (1,088,100)

7. Kano – Nigeria (3,248,700)

35. Lubumbashi – Congo Democratic Republic (1,074,600)

9. Cape Town – South Africa (2,686,000)

36. Port Harcourt – Nigeria (1,053,900)

4. Alexandria – Egypt (3,806,300)

6. Abidjan – Cote D’Ivoire (3,310,500) 8. Ibadan – Nigeria (3,078,400)

10. Addis Ababa – Ethiopia (2,638,500) 11. Giza – Egypt (2,541,000)

12. Nairobi – Kenya (2,510,800)

37. Benin – Nigeria (1,051,600) 38. Freetown – Sierra Leone (1,032,100)

39. Kigali – Rwanda (1,004,000)

13. Dar Es Salaam – Tanzania (2,456,100)

40. Subra al- Haymah – Egypt (995,800)

15. Durban – South Africa (2,354,900)

42. Kampala – Uganda (953,400)

14. Dakar – Senegal (2,384,000)

16. Luanda – Angola (2,193,400) 17. Tripoli – Libya (1,890,600)

18. Harare – Zimbabwe (1,864,400) 19. Algiers – Algeria (1,696,000)

20. Omdurman – Sudan (1,670,000) 21. Johannesburg – South Africa (1,646,400)

41. Maiduguri – Nigeria (971, 700)

43. Bulawayo – Zimbabwe (927,600) 44. Fez – Morocco (921,200)

45. Bamako – Mali (906,700) 46. Mbuji – Mayi – Congo Democratic Republic (905,800)

22. Accra – Ghana (1,605,400)

47. Zaria – Nigeria (898,900)

24. Conakry – Guinea (1,595,800)

48. Antananarivo – Madagascar (875,200)

23. Rabat – Morocco (1,600,700)

25. Kaduna – Nigeria (1,458,900)

26. Khartoum -Sudan (1,244,500) 27. Douala – Cameroon (1,239,100)

28. Pretoria – South Africa (1,228,200) 29. Soweto – South Africa (1,221,100) 30. Lusaka – Zambia (1,218,200)

lusaka_city_zambia

31. Mogadishu – Somalia (1,183,100)

49.Ouagadougou – Burkina Faso (839,800) 50. Port Elizabeth – South Africa (833,900)


Afrikan

Post

History Has Been Made. Female Genital Mutilation Banned In Nigeria.

practice, UNICEF reported that teenage girls were now one-third less likely to undergo FGM/C today than 30 years ago.

"More than 130 million girls and women have experienced female genital mutilation or cutting ..."

Nigeria made history by outlawing female genital mutilation. The ban falls under the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act 2015 that was passed in Senate on May 5 and recently enacted into law.

Now with the new law criminalizing this procedure, the hope is the ban will fully eliminate this practice and be strongly enforced to combat any existing societal pressures.

The World Health Organization cites immediate harmful effects of FCM/C that include hemorrhage (bleeding), bacterial infection, open sores, and long-term consequences that include infertility, childbirth complications and recurring bladder infections.

In another UNICEF report, communities who practice FGM often do so to reduce sexual desire in women and to initiate girls This was one of the last acts by the outgoing presi- to womanhood, among other purposes. dent, Goodluck Jonathan. His successor, Muhammadu Buhari, was sworn into office this According to "The Guardian's" analysis of past Friday, May 29. 2014 UN data, a quarter of the women in Female genital mutilation or cutting (FGM/C) is the act of either partially or totally removing the external female genitalia or causing injury to the female genital organs for non-medical purposes.

According to UNICEF:

"More than 130 million girls and women have experienced FGM/C in 29 countries in Africa and the Middle East where the practice is most common."

With the help of community activism, campaigns and numbers of organizational efforts to end this

Nigeria have undergone FGM.

Stella Mukasa, director of Gender, Violence and Rights at the International Center for Research on Women, explains the complexity of the implementation of the new law banning FGM/C.

"It is crucial that we scale up efforts to change traditional cultural views that underpin violence against women," she wrote in an article for "The Guardian." "Only then will this harmful practice be eliminated.�

June 2015

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Miss Zimbabwe Stripped of Crown Over Nude Pictures Emily Kachote was on Wednesday, June 9th dethroned as Miss Zimbabwe World 2015 after she was nakedly betrayed by a bitter former lover.

Uneasy has Kachote's crown been sitting since her vengeful ex-lover leaked pictures of her posing stark naked.

Commenting on the saga last month, the 25year-old financial advisor told local media she had hoped her former boyfriend would have deleted the images.

"I was hoping the pictures would have been deleted by now since it happened a long time ago and I last spoke to the guy a year ago and I no longer have anything to do with [him] since what we had ended a long time ago," Kachote was quoted as saying.

"I have always suspected that those pictures would circulate, but it happened a long time ago, and I believe my past does not determine where I am going." She will be replaced by Annie Grace Mutambu who was her first princess.

Kachote's predecessor, Thabiso Phiri, was also dethroned after a similar scandal last year

The Miss Zimbabwe World board confirmed the latest development.

"The Miss Zimbabwe executive board would like to inform the nation that it has resolved to dethrone Miss Emily Kachote as Miss World Zimbabwe 2015," read a statement released Wednesday.

NATIVE DOCTOR "Early this month one of the local tabloids carried a story, which alleged that Miss

Emily Kachote's nude photos had appeared on a WhatsApp group.

"This report came shortly after Miss Emily had confessed that she had once posed nude.

"This was in violation of the rules and regulations governing the Trust which all the contestants appended their signatures to." Among the rules of the competition, "winners of the Miss Word Zimbabwe beauty pageant, whether a title holder or a runner-up must not have posed nude professionally or socially in all forms of media.

In addition: "Being in a relationship, sexual advances towards anyone and any behaviour categorised as immoral by the Miss Zimbabwe Trust is grounds for instant disqualification and dethronement."

In its statement Wednesday, the Miss Zimbabwe World Trust said: "It should be noted that during the scouting and the preceding boot camp all aspiring models appended their signatures to these regulations and undertook to abide by them.

"The confession by Miss Emily Kachote that she once posed nude and her admission of the existence of the photos led the Trust to dethrone her since her conduct was a precise violation of rules governing the Trust.

"The First Princess Miss Annie Grace Mutambu has since replaced Miss Emily Kachote. In its quest to have a probity queen the Trust will not hesitate to effect its rules and regulations governing it." http://allafrica.com/

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African Chimpanzees Found To Drink Palm Kenyan Lawyer Offers Wine Prez Obama 50 Cows, 70 Sheep, 30 Goats To Marry His Daughter June 2015

Photo : http://www.theguardian.com/

They have shown an understanding of language and a sense of fairness, and now humans' closest primate cousins have even been found to share a taste for alcohol.

Scientists studying chimpanzees in Guinea have seen evidence of long-term and recurrent ingestion of ethanol by apes.

The 17-year study recorded chimps using leaves to drink fermented palm sap.

Some drank enough alcohol to produce "visible signs of inebriation".

The study - published in the journal Royal Society Open Science - revealed their tipple of choice is naturally fermented palm wine, produced by raffia palm trees. Opportunistic drinking

In the Bossou area of Guinea, where this research took place, some local people harvest "palm wine" from the trees - tapping them at the crown, and gathering the sap in plastic containers, which they collect in the mornings and evenings.

Researchers working in the area had already witnessed chimpanzees climbing the trees - often in groups - and drinking the naturally fermented palm sap. The chimps used drinking tools called leaf sponges - handfuls of leaves that they chew and crush into absorbent sponges, dip into the liquid and suck out the contents.

To work out the extent of the animals' indulging, the scientists measured the alcohol content of the wine in the containers and filmed the chimps' "drinking sessions".

The research team, led by Dr Kimberley Hockings from Oxford Brookes University and the Centre for Research in Anthropology in Portugal, worked out that the sap was about 3% alcohol by volume.

"Some individuals were estimated to have consumed about 85ml of alcohol," she said, "the equivalent to 8.5 UK units [approximately equal to a bottle of wine]".

"[They] displayed behavioural signs of inebriation, including

falling asleep shortly after drinking.

"On another occasion after drinking palm wine, one adult male chimpanzee seemed particularly restless.

"While other chimpanzees were making and settling into their night nests, he spent an additional hour moving from tree to tree in an agitated manner. Again pure speculation, but it's certainly something we would like to collect further data on in the future," the researcher told BBC News.

Alcohol can be toxic, and although there have been unconfirmed anecdotes of non-human primates consuming it in the wild, this is the first time that researchers have recorded and measured voluntary alcohol consumption in any wild ape.

In addition, chimpanzees' apparent taste for a tipple adds to an evolutionary story about humans' common predilection for alcohol. Another recent study by Matthew Carrigan, from Santa Fe College in the US, showed that humans and African apes shared a genetic mutation that enabled them to effectively metabolise ethanol.

Prof Richard Byrne, an evolutionary biologist from the University of St Andrews, commented that the evolutionary origin of that gene could be that it "opened access to good energy sources - all that simple sugar - that were accidentally 'protected' by noxious alcohol".

"And presumably, whatever its evolutionary origin, it is that adaptation which makes me able to enjoy a good malt," he added.

Dr Catherine Hobaiter, from St Andrews University, said: "It would be fascinating to investigate the [behaviour] in more detail: do chimps compete over access to the alcohol? Or do those who drank enough to show 'behavioural signs of inebriation' have a bit of a slow day in the shade the next morning?"

Dr Hobaiter added: "Even after 60 years of studying [chimpanzees], they are constantly surprising us." By Victoria Gill Science reporter, BBC News

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Nairobi – A Kenyan lawyer has offered US President Barrack Obama 50 cows, 70 sheep and 30 goats for his daughter’s hand in marriage.

Speaking to The Nairobian, Felix Kiprono said his dream is to marry one of Obama’s daughters, Malia, and he is ready to meet Obama to discuss the matter when he visits Kenya in July. “I got interested in her in 2008. As a matter of fact, I haven’t dated anyone since and promise to be faithful to her. I have shared this with my family and they are willing to help me raise the bride price,” he said.

The young lawyer claims his love for Malia is real and not infatuation. He claims Malia has Kenyan blood since his father Obama has Kenyan roots.

Kiprono said he is not after the family’s money, adding that his love is real.

“People might say I am after the family’s money, which is not the case. My love is real,” he said, adding that, “I am currently drafting a letter to Obama asking him to please have Malia accompany him for this trip. I hope the embassy will pass the letter to him. I will hand it over to the US Ambassador with whom we have interacted several times.”

The lawyer said that should Obama accept his request, his engagement to the ‘love of his life’ will be “unique with a twist.”

“If my request is granted, I will not resort to the cliche of popping champagne. Instead, I will surprise her with mursik, the traditional Kalenjin sour milk. As an indication that she is my queen, I will tie sinendet, which is a sacred plant, around her head,” he said.

“I will propose to her on a popular hill in Bureti near my father’s land where leaders and warriors are usually crowned. The place is called Kapkatet, which means ‘victory’,adding, “ours will be a simple life. I will teach Malia how to milk a cow, cook ugali and prepare mursik like any other Kalenjin woman,” he said. Source: http://africanspotlight.com

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Have Cure For HIV - University Professor says; Shows off Drugs

Professor Maduike Ezeibe of the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, Abia State has claimed his recent therapy for the dreaded Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome is real and effective. According to Ezeibe, he discovered the therapy when he decided to join the medical world to search for a solution to HIV/AIDS.

His research into the therapy known as ‘Antivirt’ (Anti-Viral Therapy) started in 1994, but he was able to discover the therapy in 2013 when his research was published in the British Journal of Medicine & Medical Research, Ezeibe explained.

Nollywood Actor Mr. Ibu Weds June 2015

Comic actor, John Okafor (popularly known as Mr. Ibu) this morning May 25th married his longtime love, Stella Marris, the mother of two of his children. The couple have been together since 2008. They had three kids, one died a few years ago.

The actor quietly married his lady in front of a few family

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and friends today. The wedding reception will hold after Mr Ibu's mother's burial. He recently bought a Lexus 330 SUV for his wife . Congrats to the couple.

See Woman Who Bre@st Feeds 26 Babies

Mr Ezeibe says two essential minerals, aluminum silicate and magnesium silicate, used in producing the therapy, are mostly found in Umuahia and parts of Abia State which then gives him an upper hand. It will also make the therapy which he claims would take an average of two or three months to cure cheaper and affordable.

Source: : http://news2.onlinenigeria.com/

Photo: CMT Khanyi Nzama’s baby is no longer bre@stfeeding so Khanyi directs her efforts at persuading other mothers to donate their milk.

Khanyi Nzama estimates that, for an hour a day last year, she was bre@stfeeding 26 babies. Every day, she expressed 260mls of bre@st milk into a bottle and delivered it to the local Human Milk Bank. “I went to the hospital and I saw how some of these sick babies took 10mls in two hours. So I was not only feeding my own baby, I was also helping to feed another 26 children.” Khanyi’s baby, Fezile, is now three and no longer bre@stfeeding so Khanyi directs her

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efforts at persuading other mothers to donate their milk.

Khanyi, 32, lives in Marianhill outside Durban, in a poor community. A quietly spoken mother of two, she is motivated by a desire to help others. “Most of the mothers are unemployed and live on social grants.


June 2015

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Afrikan Post

Keeping Your Charge

Her Page

shiping God is being serviceable to Him with the very talents and

gifts that He has graciously endowed us.

Our charge is to be connected to Him in service always. Writing

this last sentence itself makes my heart leap with affirmation,

because the Lord is drawing me closer to understand Him and His

intended ongoing relationship, role and purpose with and for us.

You see, the parable of the talents (Mathew 25: 14-30) is very

Dr. Miriam C. Gyimah

A charge to keep I have, A God to glorify,

A never dying soul to save And fit it for the sky.

To serve this present age, My calling to fulfill,

O, may it all my powers engage To do my Master’s will.

I was turning in to bed and wanted to spend a little time

with the Lord. I had woken up on this day and got to

running around all over to do all that I had on my busy

agenda that I didn’t get a chance to do my usual treasured

telling because even as the master gave one, two and five talents to

three different servants, He intended them to use them and make

something of them until he returned. And by using the talents,

these servants were in essence worshiping God, for they were being

of service to God with their very lives, for they have been entrusted

with a stake in the Kingdom of God. So yes, we all have a stake in

the Kingdom of God and we are to take charge of it by committing

our gifts to use and use them effectively, impactfully, and in spirit

and in truth. We are not to be like the one servant who did not uti-

lize his one talent but rather buried it.

The act of using my gift of writing and communication, my gift

June 2015

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endowed us, but it is Satan’s, our chief adversary’s, intention and purpose to prevent us from fulfilling our life’s work, our charge, our worship in

spirit and truth to divert us to a useless, barren end and even destruction.

So when you are busy working for the Lord in the church, community or

at work and individuals here and there clandestinely or even overtly try to trip you, know that the enemy is at work and is wishing your ineffective-

ness, discredit, and even plotting your downfall. He or she does not want

you to succeed simply because of envy or jealousy. They despise the glory that God has bestowed upon you and wish it were theirs. They resent the

respect you have from your peers and community and want to separate you from it. It is an evil intention, but it is real and it is at work. So while you are busily and happily at work for God, be vigilant; be wise and be in tune with your God each and every day even as He directs you to navigate

those bumps and hurdles which He knows will surely be there as you utilize your talents for His glory.

Remember, keeping your charge is worshiping Him in spirit and in

truth. It is not performing your role to bring attention to yourself, to

demonstrate how good you are although you might be very good. It is not

of administration and organization within the church and even with- about the accolades that will be showered upon you. It is not the appella-

in the community for the purposes of these entities’ progression

tions that will flow out of the mouths of people about you. Keeping your

in these spaces for positive impact and in keeping with the word of

this great world, is not at all about you, but all about your God and Creator

and betterment is a form of worship. Using these gifts and talents

charge, glorifying your God with your talent, and fulfilling your part in

God is us doing our part in God’s kingdom. Preaching and teaching and His intention for all of creation. You are the vessel and if the vessel is

the word of God in the church, streets and other venues, if that is quiet time with the Lord. So before going to bed, I picked up your rightful talent, is keeping your charge. Even teaching and my Bible and even as I closed my eyes to say a quick prayer administering in the public or private schools, where you have an

made beautiful by the Potter, know that the vessel is a tool created for a

out of nowhere, the above song by Charles Wesley came. I

service to my job place and my community yield me? Well, then why

before reading, out of somewhere, or someone would say,

began singing it though I thought it interesting that such a

song should make its way through my throat since, although

I know it, I hardly ever sing it. As I sang the first verse,

which I know by heart, I thought to myself, what is my

charge? And as if I knew it already, the spontaneous

response from within me was “to worship God in spirit and

in truth.” (John 4:24)

Our charge to keep, our purpose, our reason for being, is

to worship God and worship Him in spirit and in truth. We

impact on the knowledge and growth of your students in the expan-

sion of their talents, abilities and minds, preparing them to become

church going to give me? What rewards or acknowledgements will my

you don’t know and clearly do not understand your purpose in relationship

vide food and refreshments for visitors, Sunday school students, or

of nor read the parable of the talents or perhaps you have but you have

for church anniversaries and special occasions, know that you are

keeping your charge; you are worshiping The Lord your God. All

these are in fact ministries and by committing to your ministry, you

are making an impact in improving and furthering the work of God. Now, having said all of this, let us be aware that while each and

bear influence in this our world, for however long we are here, but to worship Him in spirit. Worshiping God in spirit means there will be challenges and hindrances to thwart the progression our spirit must be shed of any ills and self-will and connect and success that the Lord has intended for you. These challenges

comes to inhabit in our praises. So just as the angels in

do this and they do that. What am I going to get out of it? What is the

is a form of worship and it is consistent with keeping your charge.

If your part is catering services within the church, where you pro-

are not to worship Him simply from our flesh as in using our every one of us have been purposed to have talents and gifts and to

heaven worship the Almighty God around the clock as it is

purpose. Too many people want to know what is in it for them when they

responsible and knowledgeable members of the world’s community, should I do it if there is nothing in it for me? If this is your thinking, then

hands, voices or bodies as gestures or out of self and ego,

with the Spirit of God where we unite as one, even as He

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and hindrances can come from ourselves, as in our laziness, our

procrastination, our unprofessionalism, our sloppiness, our pride,

to your Creator. If this is your mentality, then clearly you have not heard simply rejected the teaching.

What is beautiful is God’s plan and intention for all of His creation.

What is beautiful is that God the Creator has intentionally created and

breathed in all of us, as worshiping and working beings, a multiplicity of

talents and gifts to take part in this great world of His own making, giving us all a mission and assignments for the tenure of our lives as a means to worship and be a living part of His vision. But what is more beautiful is

that while we are all working in this great vineyard, while we are all worshiping Him in truth and in spirit through our multiple means, He works

alongside us, “for we are co-laborers with God” (I Corinthians 3:9). The

Bible tells us, He inhabits in the praises of His people (Psalm 22:3), so let

our improper or even abusive means by which we treat these talents us be mindful that even our work is a living testament to God. Even our attested in the book of Revelations, so also must we worship and our work, not keeping in mind the privilege with which we work invokes the presence of God each and every moment that we are perHim. have been honored and the responsibility with which we have been forming it. So let us take joy, let us take pride, let us have purpose and One may ask, how do we worship Him like the angels

since unlike the angels, we are charged with the never-end-

ing task to work and take care of our families? While it

entrusted. Why do you oppress with your gift instead of liberate?

Why are you so permissive and not employ reasonable guidelines

and standards for yourself and others that you lose your moral might be true that we may not have the privilege or even the ground and the respect of your labor? How does that make your stamina to worship the Lord around the clock, the charge to gift effective? It is rather compromised. A compromised output is

keep still remains. And so aside from our daily communica- not keeping your charge; it is not worshiping in spirit and in truth.

tion, praise and worship of God, aside from our quiet times

Attempts to thwart our ministries, our worship, and our charge and attending church services, our charge, our worshiping of will also surely come from outside forces, physical and spiritual. God is simply working in His vineyard. Plainly put, worYou see, it is God’s desire to use us effectively even as He has

good intention and put forth our very best effort each and every time we

step in our roles to perform our duties. Let us not get in our own way with sloppy, careless and half-hearted service. And let us not let our enemies hinder our work and defer our mission.

Let us know that we have a “charge to keep,” “a God to glorify,” “a

calling to fulfill,” “to serve this present age” and “to do our Master’s will.”


GHANA

LAUGH SMALL

During teenagers relationship class, the teacher said: we have romantic country names, example H.O.L.L.A.N.D. - Hope Our Love Lasts And Never Dies.

I.T.A.L.Y. - I Trust And Love You.

L.I.B.Y.A. - Love Is Beautiful; You Also.

F.R.A.N.C.E. - Friendships Remain And Never Can End.

So class, who can form a nice romantic statement from any African country.

Akpos: G.H.A.N.A Teacher: yes, and what does it stand for?

Akpos: Good Husbands Are Not Available

Joke Center

Subject: The Wife

Wonderful Definitions

About Wife When a man steals your wife, there is no better revenge than to let him keep her. ~By Lee Majors

After marriage, husband and wife become two sides of a coin; they just can't face each other, but still they stay together. ~By Al Gore

By all means marry. If you get a good wife, you'll be happy. If you get a bad one, you'll become a philosopher. ~By Socrates

Woman inspires us to great things and prevents us from achieving them. ~By Mike Tyson The great question... which I have not been able to answer... is, "What does a woman want? ~By George Clooney I had some words with my wife, and she had some paragraphs with me. ~By Bill Clinton

"Some people ask the secret of our long marriage. We take time to go to a restaurant two times a week. A little candlelight, dinner, soft music and dancing. She goes on Tuesdays, I go on Fridays." ~By George W. Bush

Watching TV

"I don't worry about terrorism. I was married for two years." ~By Rudy Giuliani

"There's a way of transferring funds that is even faster than electronic banking. It's called marriage." ~By Michael Jordan

On a very cool evening, Mr. Akpos was with his family, all watch- "I've had bad luck with all my wives. The first one left me and ing TV when his youngest son, 'Joshua' interrupts with a question. the second one didn’t.” The third gave me more children! ~By Donald Trump Joshua: Dad(Akpos), what is the difference between 'potential' and Two secrets to keep your marriage brimming 'reality'?

Akpos (turns to wife): would you sleep with George.W. Bush for $1 million?

Wife: Of course, I will never waste that opportunity.

Akpos (turns to daughter): Would you sleep with Brad Pitt for $1 million?

Daughter: Yes! He is my fantasy.

Akpos (turns to eldest son): Would you sleep with Tom Cruise for $1 million?

Eldest son: Why not? Imagine what I would do with that money.

Akpos turns to his youngest son Joshua: You see son, 'potentially' we are sitting with multimillionaires but in 'reality' we are sitting with two prostitutes and one Gay, idiot!!

One word for the family. Source: Evans Awuah

June 2015

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1. Whenever you're wrong, admit it, 2. Whenever you're right, shut up. ~By Shaquille O’Neal

The most effective way to remember your wife's birthday is to forget it once... ~By Kobe Bryant

You know what I did before I married? Anything I wanted to. By David Hasselhoff My wife and I were happy for twenty years. Then we met. ~By Alec Baldwin

A good wife always forgives her husband when she's wrong. ~By Barack Obama Marriage is the only war where one sleeps with the enemy. ~ByTommy Lee

A man inserted an 'ad' in the classifieds: "Wife wanted". Next day he received a hundred letters. They all said the same thing: "You can have mine." ~By Brad Pitt First Guy (proudly): "My wife's an angel!" Second Guy : "You're lucky, mine's still alive." ~ By Jimmy Kimmel

“Honey, what happened to ‘ladies first’?” Husband replies, “That’s the reason why the world’s a mess today, because a lady went first!” ~By David Letterman

“First there’s the promise ring, then the engagement ring, then the wedding ring...soon after....comes Suffer..ing! ~By Jay Leno

"The reason why wives live longer is beacause they don't have a Wife" ~by Brandon Breezy Mistakes


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African Proverbs That Will Crack Your 15-Yr.-Old Becomes Youngest Ribs AND Their Meanings Black Pilot To Fly CrossCountry June 2015

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1. When a man is stung by a bee, he does not destroy all beehives (Kenya)

2. The man who marries a beautiful woman, and the farmer who grows corn by the roadside have the same problem (Ethiopia)

3. A short man is not a boy (Nigeria)

4. No matter how hot your anger is, it cannot cook yams (Nigeria)

5. It requires a lot of carefullness to kill the fly that perches on the scrotum (Ghana)

6. If the throat can grant passage to a knife, the anus should wonder how to expel it (Seychelles)

7. The frown on the face of the goat will not stop it from being taken to the market (Nigeria)

8. An old lady feels uneasy when dry bones are mentioned in a proverb (Ghana)

9. The same sun that melts the wax, hardens the clay (Niger)

10. If you don't know where you are going, any road will take you there (Uganda)

11. There is no virgin in a maternity ward (Cameroon)

12. A child can play with its mother's breasts, but not its father's testicles (Guinea)

Kimberly Anyadike, 15, stands in front of her single-engine Cessna plane during her historic cross-country flight.

Meanings :

She departed with a dream and returned home a record-breaker.

13. He who goes to sleep with an itching anus wakes up with smelly fingers (Nigeria)

No_1 means When some girl / boy hurts you, you don't hate the whole family

No_2 means The man who marries a beautiful woman will always be insecure because he thinks some one may steal her, well as a farmer will also be insecure that his corn maybe stolen

No_3 A man wheather short or tall, black or white, will always remain a man and a head in Africa

No_4 It means one can never have the anger that is burning to cause fire, it will one time cool down

No_5 means You need to be carefull before hurting some one because you may hurt yourself as well

No_6 When you get into a problem at first you should be able know how you will solve it

No_7 some ones disability is not his/her inability, they can still do wonders you can't imagine

No_8 people don't feel confantable when some one is taking about something that is touching there hearts forexample there dirty past

No_9 the same problems that make you cry will one time inspire you to be some one

No_10 means no matter which pass you take in life, it will take you to victory one day

No_11 means when something happen there is always a cause of it, forexample very one who is pregnant must have had intercouse some day

No_12 you can't engage yourself in something that is extrimely dangerous like your dads testes where do you even start but the mom's breast is less dangerous and you know it gives you milk to feed on

No_13 means if you don something dirty know that at one point the truth will come out

Source:: http://m.howwe.biz/

Inspired by the Tuskeegee Airmen, 15-year-old Kimberly Anyadike flew a singleengine Cessna cross-country from her hometown of Compton, Calif., to Newport News, Va.

Anyadike is thought to be the youngest African American female pilot to complete the journey, which took 13 days. She arrived home in Los Angeles on Saturday, July 11.

Anyadike learned to fly at age 12 through the Compton-based Tomorrow's Aeronautical Museum, which offers aviation lessons in an after-school program for disadvantaged youths, the Los Angeles Times reported. It was their plane that she flew on her cross-country trip.

The brave teenager came up with the idea for the trip on her own, the museum's founder, Robert Petgrave, told the Times.

"I told her it was going to be a daunting task, but she just said, 'Put it on. I got big shoulders,'" Petgrave said. Along for the historic ride were an adult safety pilot and 87-year-old Levi Thornhill, one of the Tuskeegee Airmen during World War II.

"They left such a great legacy," Anyadike said of the U.S. Army Air Corps' allblack combat unit. "I had big shoes to fill. ... All they wanted to do was to be patriots for this country. They were told no, that they were stupid, that they didn't have cognitive development to fly planes. They didn't listen. They just did what they wanted to do."

About 50 Tuskeegee Airmen autographed the young pilot's plane during her journey, the Times reported.

"I wanted to inspire other kids to really believe in themselves," Anyadike said.

http://m.nydailynews.com/


African Symbols that Prove Africans Were Always Spiritually Superior

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African symbols from Egypt are well known, but now is time to discover more African symbols specially from West Africa, called Adinkra. Adinkra are visual symbols, originally created by the Ashanti of Ghana and the Gyaman of Cote d’Ivoire in West Africa. They represent concepts or aphorisms, and are extensively used in fabrics, pottery, logos and advertising.The symbols have a decorative function but also represent objects that encapsulate evocative messages that convey traditional wisdom, aspects of life or the environment. The Collection below is from the work of Jean MacDonald, and is destined to African artists and designers for inspiration in logo, websites, clothes, jewelery and fashion design, not forget for tattoos.

AKOFENA

ADINKRAHENE

AKOMA

“sword of war ” “Chief of the adinkra sym“the heart” symbol of courage, valor, bols” symbol of greatness, and heroism The charisma and leadership This symbol of patience and tolercrossed swords were a pop- symbol is said to have played ance According to Agbo, when ular motif in the heraldic a an inspiring role in shields of many former person is said to “have a heart the designing of other symAkan in his stomach,” that person is bols. it signifies the imporstates. In addition to recogvery tolerant. tance of playing a nizing courage and valor, leadership role. the swords can represent legitimate state authority.

WO NSA DA MU A

“If your hands are in the dish” symbol of participatory government, democracy and pluralism From the aphorism, “Wo nsa da mu a, wonni nnya wo” — “If your hands are in the dish, people do not eat everything and leave you nothing.” Source: “Cloth As Metaphor” by G.F. Kojo Arthur

PEMPAMSIE

WOFORO DUA PA A

“when you climb a good tree” symbol of support, cooperation and encouragement From the expression “Woforo dua pa a, na yepia wo” meaning “When you climb a good tree, you are given a push”. More metaphorically, it means that when you work for a good cause, you will get support.

OWUO ATWEDEE

ASASE YE DURU”

TAMFO BEBRE

symbol of hardiness, toughness and perseverance The seed of the wawa tree is extremely hard. In Akan culture, it is a symbol of someone who is strong and tough. Itinspires the individual to persevere through hardship.

“The Moon and the Star”

symbol of love, faithfulness, “Sew in readiness”symbol of “the ladder of death” harmony readiness, steadfastness, hardisymbol of mortality a This symbol reflects the harness reminder of the transitory mony that exists in the bondAccording to the The Adinkra nature of existence in this ing between a man and a Dictionary, the design world and of the imperative woman. Proverb: “Kyekye of this symbol resembles the to live a good life to be a pe aware.” (The North Star links of a chain, and implies worthy soul in the afterlife has a deep love for marriage. strength through unity as well as She is always in the sky the importance of being prepared. waiting for the return of the

NYAME NTI

“by God’s grace” “except for God” “the Earth has weight” symbol of the supremacy symbol of faith and trust of God This unique and in God symbol of providence and beautiful symbol is ubiqAccording to The the divinity of Mother uitous in Ghana. It is by Adinkra Dictionary by Earth This symbol reprefar the most popular for W. Bruce Willis: “This sents the importance of the use stalk is depicted as the Earth in sustaining life. in decoration, a reflecstaff of life in many cultion on the deeply relitures. It symbolizes to gious character of the the Akan that food is a Ghanaian basis of life and that they people could not survive if not for the food that God has

WAWA ABA

“seed of the wawa tree”

GYE NYAME

“the enemy will stew in his own juice”

SESA WO SUBAN

“Change or transform your character”

BOA ME NA ME MMOA WO “Help me and let me help you” symbol of cooperation and interdependence Source:“Cloth As Metaphor” by G.F. Kojo Arthur

SANKOFA

“return and get it”

symbol of importance of symbol of jealousy and envy symbol of life transformation learning from the past This symbol combines two separate adinkra symbols, the “Morning Star” which can mean a new start to the day, placed inside the wheel, representing rotation or independent movement.

ONYANKOPON ADOM NTI BIRIB- OKODEE MMOWERE IARA BEYE YIE “the talons of the eagle” “By God’s grace, all will be well” symbol of hope, providence, faith

Source: Cloth As Metaphor by G.F. Kojo

ODO NNYEW FIE KWAN

“Love never loses its way symbol of strength, bravery, home” power The eagle is the mightiest bird in symbol of the power of the sky, and its strength is conlove centrated in its talons. The Oyoko clan, one of the nine Akan clans, uses this symbol as their clan emblem.


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Daniel Ampomah(Phd.) Selected Among 2015 GEM (Giving Excellence Meaning) Award finalists from the Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia region . They are among the best of the best in the Nursing Profession.

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Volunteerism and Service

Daniel Ampomah PhD, RN, NE-BC Faculty instructor Chamberlain College of Nursing Arlington campus Arlington, Va.

After teaching nursing classes each week, Ampomah shares health information around the world through his talk show on Ghana Tourist Coach Radio; many listeners are members of the large Ghanaian community in Northern Virginia. Ampomah was motivated to reach out to the community with health promotion after meeting many Ghanaians and Africans who asked for his health advice. He began sharing his knowledge by giving presentations on hypertension, diabetes and other important health topics at African churches in Virginia. That effort led to the radio program, which can, on any given Sunday, have more than 7,000 listeners. He also was involved in helping found the Ghana Nurses Association of Virginia in 2008. The association has a membership of about 210 nurses and nursing students. Ampomah has provided leadership, guidance and motivation to his nursing colleagues, and through the association has embarked on health outreach programs, educating the community on high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes and other health issues that impact the African community. As a result, the association activities have brought health awareness and personal care to the Ghanaian community in Virginia. In 2010, Ampomah founded the Ghana Nursing and Health Center with the primary goal of providing health education material tailored to meet the healthcare needs of Ghanaians living in West Africa or other parts of the world. Last year, he was chosen as a panelist on a Diaspora Health Conference organized by the Ghana Embassy in Washington, D.C

Honorees were (from left) Amminikutty Ninan of Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center (Clinical Nursing, Inpatient), Patti Rager (Lifetime Achievement Award), Christina Cafeo of the University of Maryland Medical Center (Advancing and Leading the Profession), Tara Carlson of the R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center (Home, Community and Ambulatory Care), Daniel Ampomah of Chamberlain College of Nursing (Volunteerism and Service), Kimberly Krakowski of Inova Health System (Patient and Staff Management), Maria Lutz of Inova Alexandria Hospital (Rising Star Award) and Katherine Patterson Kelly of Children's National Health System (Education and Mentorship). Nurse.com prides itself in recognizing the accomplishments of nurses of excellence at its GEM (Giving Excellence Meaning) award programs. Held in various cities throughout the United States, these celebrations honor exceptional nurses from all specialties and practice settings, and each culminates in the naming of six regional winners in six different categories. The regional winners move on to compete in the GEM national nurse of the year program. Nurse.com's prestigious Nursing Excellence Awards program honors outstanding nurses in regions across the country, leading to the selection of the National Nurses of the Year. Source:nurse.com


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June 2015

Wellcheck Pharmacy Opens In Woodbridge, Virginia

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On Saturday June 6, Wellcheck Pharmacy a Community/Retail Pharmacy shop opened its doors to customers in the J&J Supermarket along Route one in Woodbridge , Virginia. After the the opening ceremony a free health screening was offered to all customers . A host of health professionals were available to give counseling on various medical issues . The Pharmacy shop is locally owned and operated by Dr. Vera Asante. Wellcheck Pharmacy is located at 16593 RIVER RIDGE BLVD in the 22191 ZIP code in WOODBRIDGE, VA.

Free Health Screening

Congratulatory wishes from customers

Dr. Vera Asante and medical personnel on-site

Dr. Vera Asante - (CEO)

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America School of Nursing & Allied Health

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June 2015 Page

Begin Your Nursing Education Today

Classes Offered

Nurse Aide Training Medication Aide Training Home Health Aide Phlebotomy Training Pharmacy Technician Practical Nursing (LPN)

LPN Classes start August 31, 2015 MorningMon-Thursday 8am-2pm Evening 5pm-10pm Weekend Classes Start on August 31, 2015 8am-2pm

Call 703-490-8402 or Visit us at www.asnahonline.com 14910 Jefferson Davis Highway Woodbridge, Virginia 22191 Fax: (703) 490-8403

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A House Built Using Plastic Bottles In Nigerian Student Solves 30 Year Nigeria, Stronger Than a Brick House Old Math Equation and Breaks Academic Record at Japanese University

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since 1965!

The last time anyone graduated with a grade point average similar to Utof Ekong was over 50 years ago. Utof, who put himself through school by working two jobs has won many other academic awards at the university; totaling to about six awards. On top of all his academic excellence, Utof also solved a 30 year old outstanding mathematical equation in his first semester!

A project in Nigeria is using plastic bottles to build houses. The plastic bottle helps to lower the cost of building and by clearing empty bottles, it helps the environment too. The bottles are picked up of the streets and collected from rubbish dumps.

The Plastic bottles are packed solid with soil and laid on top of each other then bound with mud and string. The developers claim the buildings can withstand earthquakes and bullets.

The project also creates job opportunities for those that are unemployed. A house made of plastic bottles costs a third of a normal house. This an idea for anyone looking to build a house in Africa cheaply.

Utof speaks English, Yoruba, French and Japanese.

Now that’s young, brilliant and black at it’s FINEST! Nigerian student Utof Ekong has just become the first Nigerian to earn a “First Class Degree” and become the best overall student at Tokai University in Tokyo, Japan

Nigerian Girls Invent Urine Powered Generator

Nigeria is a country blessed with amazing resources, skills and most of all intelligence if they can be put to good use. Today we celebrate Four Teenage Girls, Adebola (14), Abiola (14), Oluwatoyin (14) and Eniola (15), who have once again put Nigeria on a positive global spotlight, after they invented a Urine Powered Generator. (One Litre of Urine generates 6 Hours of Power)

We believe there are many more talents like this in Nigeria, and they deserve to be encouraged and celebrated.

www.pulsenigia.com


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Town With The Highest Number Of Twins In The World, Guess Where It Is?

June 2015

West Africa has the highest occurrence of twins in the world. One town in particular, has a twin birthrate so high that the town was nicknamed the Twin Capital of the World.

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Some community members worship twins

In a BBC interview, community members stated that “It’s a sort of honour to be so-called Father or mother of twins because they are a special breed from God.”

1. Percentage wise, there are about 30 times more twins in that town than there are in Europe

Raising twins can sometimes be difficult

According to a BBC article, there are about 158 twins per 1000 newborns in Twin Capital of the World, compared to 5 twins per 1000 newborns in Europe.

Raising a pair of twins implies feeding two children. Some people cannot afford raising twins. Twins are not the only thing that makes this town famous

The Twin Capital of the World is also a large charcoal-producing town. The town in question is called Igbo-Ora

Igbo-Ora

is a small town in the Oyo State, north of Lagos, Nigeria.

Source:howafrica.com 2. People attribute the predominance of twins to a meal

Àmàlà and Ìlasà is a morsel meal that combines yam powder and okra soup. Yams contain gonadotrophins, a chemical that helps women produce multiple eggs.

3. Twins are regarded as special creatures

Twins are taken care of in a special way: they wear the same clothes and have a shrine built for them in their living room

The same phenomenon was observed in two other cities in the world

In other Nigerian cultures, twins are received with reverence and admiration. Among the Hausa, twins are welcomed and are usually named after the twin sons of Ali, the fourth Caliph in Islamic history. Twin boys are usually named Hassan or Hussain. Twin girls are usually given the feminine versions of these names (Hassana and Hussaina).

In the Yoruba culture, twins are thought to have divine powers and the capability to hurt those who upset them. As such, twins are often treated with special affection, and are regarded as special gifts from God and as bearers of good luck. Multiple births are celebrated, and pregnant women often hope for twins. Additionally, in Yoruba tradition, which teaches that each person is one soul in the long line of ancestral souls, twins are unique because they share the same soul.

Yoruba twins are named according to their birth order, with the firstborn twin called Taiyewo (shortened to Taiwo) meaning ‘the first to taste the world’, and the second-born twin called Kehinde, ‘the last to come’. These are their ‘celestial’ Yoruba names dictated by their birth circumstances. (For more about baby names, check out ‘What’s In A Name’ in this edition).

When the twins are born, Kehinde sends Taiwo to check out what life is like on earth and to tell him or her whether it will be good. Therefore, Taiwo becomes the first child to be born. He/she then communicates to Kehinde spiritually, through the nature of his/her crying, whether life will be good or bad. The reply determines if Kehinde will be born alive or stillborn. Both twins will be stillborn, returning to where they came from, if Taiwo’s reply is not good enough for both of them. The Yoruba traditionally say that Kehinde is the true elder of the twins despite being the second-born, because Kehinde sends Taiwo on an errand, a prerogative of one’s elders in Yoruba land. Source:http://www.hornblend.com/


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Travel Distances Between A J u n e 2015

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http://www.mapcrow.info/africa.html

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THE DECODED BENEFITS OF LIFE INSURANCE

We’ve crossed path on this platform of information sharing again. I am excited to write this piece of literature to you. As you would recall, on the previous article, we discussed the foundation and the importance of life insurance. I trust the message has echoed in your spirit. I would like to reemphasize that life insurance policy is not just for when you are dead and your loved ones enjoy the proceeds. Rather, life insurance is protecting yourself should you suddenly face any life threatening illness such as disability or chronic or terminal illness; you can enjoy the benefits of the life insurance policy as well while still providing a financial fund stream for your family. Depending on the type of life insurance policy you have, you can also use it as an investment tool for future retirement or as an educational plan to support your children’s education. There are various uses for life insurance and it carries a tax free benefit. Now let’s talk about the various types of life insurance policies. Term life policy: provides temporary coverage with affordable premiums. Anyone can afford this type of insurance that provide security and peace of mind for yourself and your family. Though, there are various policies that ascribe to the term life insurance policies, let’s look at a specific product such as the Mortgage Protection Insurance that would have an immediate impact in your life. The Mortgage Protection Insurance policy is a term insurance that protects your house in case you suddenly become disabled or deemed chronically ill. This is not the same insurance as the Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) that you pay with your mortgage. The PMI protects the lender should you default on your mortgage. However, this Mortgage Protection Life Insurance protects YOU, the homeowner should something happen to you, your family will be able to carry on the mortgage and still enjoy the home you left behind. Whole-life policy: it is a permanent life insurance policy that provides life coverage with an investment fund. It is a policy that part of the premium goes toward building cash value from investment and pays a stated fixed amount when you are called to glory. As the policy is in force and has build up cash value, you can borrow money against the build up cash in the policy without being taxed; you enjoy this benefit while you are still living. Within the arena of permanent life policies, there are Universal Life and Variable Life. Universal life policy combines term insurance with money market type investment that pays a market rate of return. Basically,

it is a policy that has a death benefit and builds up cash value that can be borrowed from while you are still alive. Then, there are the Variable life and Variable Universal life policies that have investment fund tied to a stock or bond mutual fund investment. Life insurance policies have immeasurable benefits that can be enjoyed while you are still on earth and when you are called to glory. The essence of writing this to you is to broaden the depth of your thinking and to show you that there are wealth of information available to you for your financial planning and future. Over the years, the community has experienced sudden tragedies and over and over, it seems that we have not prepared for these events. We are a people that do not plan; we wait for events to suddenly overtake us and then we react. We need to learn the new way of emerging into the Western culture, where planning is essential. It worries and saddens me to see that we are perishing for lack of knowledge. Having a life insurance policy does not sentence you to death; it shows you take pride in your life, your future and your family that will someday succeed you. It creates and gives a peace of mind that you and your family will be taken care of in an unplanned dire situation(s) in life. Please note that this is to give you a general overview of life insurance policies. To get a complete understanding and enjoy the tax free benefits contact me for a FREE financial consultation.

Anita A. Bediako Licensed Health & Life Insurance/Financial Consulting Agent CONTACT: 571-229-6694 Email:divineconsultingmultiservices@g mail.com

The Joy of Homeownership June 2015

Anita A. Bediako- REALTOR® – Licensed in the Common Wealth of Virginia Prince William County-Local Expert CONTACT 571-229-6694; Email: abediako@pwrealty.com

It is a known fact that the best single investment one can make is owning your own home. Homeownership promotes a sense of achievement, positive self esteem and pride. It creates a sense of accomplishmentand Freedom ! The Biggest Benefit of Homeownership Homeownership makes good sense because there are tax privileges when tax time rolls around: You get the benefit of deducting the interest paid on the mortgage throughout the year. Deduct any points paid, either discount or origination fees paid on loan. You can deduct a room in your home if it is solely dedicated for home business use . The biggest advantage, though, is the fact that the principle you pay on the mortgage is like putting money in the bank, in the form of equity . Other Advantages of Homeownship Owning your home gives you an individualized approach concerning landscaping, decorating, and curb appeal, which in the process can add value to the home. You do what you please when you please to your home which renting does not provide. If you have children, they will find stability in knowing that they aren't going to have to change schools, which can be traumatic for younger children. They

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won't have to make new friends, and a sense of place becomes very real to them. Disadvantages of Renting When you rent, you do not have the flexbility to make aesthetic or cosmetic changes to the place as you please. You may be able to paint a room, but need to repaint back to the original color scheme when you move. You cannot make major structural changes or group changes such as adding flower beds or even rock gardens and waterfalls to reflect your taste. You put up with an obstinate landlord that refuses to repair things in the apartment, or just "doesn't have time." This can build frustration and stress.You help the Landlord build equity on their property and gain tax write off. I hope you enjoyed reading this article and it has provided helpful information in making your decision to homeownership a smooth one Anita A. Bediako- REALTOR® –Licensed in the Common Wealth of Virginia Prince William County-Local ExpertCONTACT 571-229-6694; Email: abediako@pwrealty.com


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Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote wants to buy Arsenal

Ex-Black Stars Striker George Arthur Passes On

ately called during his playing days, joined Kumasi Asante Kotoko in the 1980’s from Brong Ahafo United before he moved to Al Ahly.

He is remembered by Kotoko faithful for scoring a brace in 1987 against their archrivals, Hearts of Oak in 1987 in a league game at the Ohene Djan Sports Stadium, Accra.

Africa's richest businessman says he is planning a bid to buy Arsenal.

Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote believes the building of an oil refinery in his homeland will give him the finance to secure a takeover.

The 58-year-old, who has an estimated wealth of £11.5bn, says he has supported the Gunners since the 1980s.

"When we get this refinery on track, I will have enough time and enough resources to pay what they are asking for," he told BBC Hausa.

American Stan Kroenke is Arsenal's majority shareholder, owning 66.64% of the club's parent company Arsenal Holdings plc.

Russian-Uzbek Alisher Usmanov owns 29.11% with the remainder of the 62,217 shares held by minority shareholders including former players and the Arsenal Supporters' Trust, who own three.

Dangote is ranked 67th on the Forbes rich list.

The deadly striker was also part of the Black Stars team in the late 1980’s.

The ex-Ghana international, who was George Arthur later assumed full of live in the early hours of today, administrative position as the couldn’t survive cardiac arrest and lost CEO of B.A United. his live after being rushed to the Sunyani government hospital for treatment. Source:www.allsports.com.gh

Arthur was playing draughts with friends when he suddenly collapsed and died upon reaching the Sunyani government hospital.

King George Arthur, as he was affection-

Charles Taylor in UK Hospital

The operation was said to have lasted for about 45 minutes to 1hours. Family members here have expressed concerned about his health and hope he gets well soon. A family spokesperson Mr. Arthur Saye said this was Taylor's first major operation in his life and hence the fear for his safety.

He had previously been interested in purchasing the 15.9% stake sold to Kroenke for £123m by Lady Nina Bracewell-Smith in April 2011 only to pull out.

"There were a couple of us who were rushing to buy, and we thought with the prices then, the people who were interested in selling were trying to go for a kill," Dangote added.

"We backtracked, because we were very busy doing other things, especially our industrialisation."

Dangote believes Arsenal require a different ownership in order to be more successful on the pitch.

He added: "They are doing well, but they need another strategic direction. They need more direction than the current situation, where they just develop players and sell them." Source:bbcnews.com

By Othello B. Garblah

Ex-President Charles Taylor has been hospitalized in a London hospital where he was scheduled to undergo operations for abdominal hernia on his right side on Friday June 12, 2015.

His aides told this paper Monday that so far the operation had been successful but was due for further screening on Monday Morning.

Taylor 67, was convicted on 26 April 2012 on 11 counts of war crimes, crimes against humanity, including serious violations of international humanitarian law by the Trial Chambers II of the UN back Special Court for Sierra Leone, which sat in The Hague.

He was sentenced on 30 May 2012 to a term of 50 years in prison, and on 26 September 2013, the Appeals Chamber upheld both his conviction and his sentence, clearing the way for his transfer to a UK prison. Source:a;allafrica.com

June 2015

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