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President of Ghana Makes History in the United States Pg. 28

Vol 10 Issue 3

March 2018

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Late Sculptor and Pan-African Dr. Oku Ampofo visits Embassy of Ghana in Washington DC Again

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School in Amanase, went to Anum Secondary School, then to Mfantsipim boys school and eventually Achimota College; all respectively in Ghana.

From Achimota he won a scholarship that took him off the shores of Ghana to study medicine at Edinburg University, this happened when at 25yrs the native of Mampong-Akwapim became the first Ghanaian to receive a government scholarship to study medicine.

Decades after his death, a few people gathered to honor the memory of one of Ghana's renowned physicians, Pan-Africanists, traditionalists, herbalists, and sculptors - Dr Oku Ampofo. The venue was the auditorium of the Embassy of Ghana in Washington, DC. The theme of the gathering was mainly to screen a documentary, exhibit some of his works and celebrate the legacy of Dr Oku Ampofo.

I arrived early at the gathering with the hope of getting an opportunity to savor some of the wood sculptings of this great sculptor before the auditorium of the embassy got filled, well this early bird sure did catch a few good tasty worms because the event organizers were just beginning to delicately haul some of Dr Oku Ampofo's work into the embassy at my arrival in preparation for the exhibition so yes, I did feast my eyes and imagination.

But I did not have a lot of alone-time because other folks as excited as myself begun trickling into the embassy on that calm winter weekend evening of March 3, 2018, some of which included Ghana's Ambassador to the United States His Excellency Dr Barfour AdjeiBarwuah, contemporaries of the late sculptor and herbal medicine enthusiast, embassy staff, the Sankofa Children Museum of African Cultures, and the general public.

The intricacy and delicacy of many of the sculptings I saw left me in awe of Dr. Oku Ampofo (the late Dr. Oku Ampofo in a file photo above), I had seen pictures of and read about his works, but this was the first time I was beholding their magnificence and beauty. This man is something else I thought to myself, I felt a little ashamed I had just started to discover the history behind him.So, Dr Oku (born November 4, 1908, in the then Gold Coast), the world acclaimed sculptor was also an acclaimed herbalist and astute student of culture credited with founding Ghana's Centre for Scientific Research into Plant Medicine (CSRPM) in 1975. Oh... he was once upon a time an actor as well, but as the screening of the documentary in his memory begun and I watched Dr Oku Ampofo on the screen, I bore in mind the fact that he was not acting this time, this time he was sharing the realities of his life, he was chronicling his journey through the magic of video.

Click here for more photos from the event courtesy of #TheAfricanDreamLLCThe short film tantalized viewers with intimate details of the life of the visionary, patriot, traditionalist and innovator who was born Kwaku Oku Ampofo. What I watched teased me enough to set me on a path to discover on my own the fact that Dr. Oku Ampofo had his elementary education at the Basel Mission Church

He later on received a scholarship from Ghana's first President Dr Kwame Nkrumah to delve more into medicine in China, later on in his life and through his work as a herbalist, over 300 plants were identified and certified to have genuine therapeutic effects for the treatment of many diseases including malaria, sickle-cell anaemia, arthritis, diabetes and even some forms of cancer.

I left the embassy that night wondering what I could do to spread my newly acquired knowledge of Dr Oku Ampofo's life and work, and well you guessed right - I decided to put it all together in writing with the hope that a reader might see and share, or even more importantly, research on their own to learn more because this piece does not do enough justice to the legacy of this great Pan-Africanist from Ghana.

It, however, saddened me to discover later on in my research for this write-up that Dr. Oku Apmpofo's CSRPM (now known as CPMR) in Mampong, Ghana, is beset with dilapidation and neglect, lacking the simplest equipment to function as a research center.

Am at the same time hopeful that with support from both Ghana's Ministry of Health and benevolent bodies and individuals, the center could market the more than 30 herbal products for the treatment of various ailments that it presently does, to rake in more money.

This could help uplift the image of the center, attract researchers and scientists as well as herbalists to revamp faith in the use of traditional medicine among millennials, given the fact that modern medicines are becoming more and more expensive by the minute.

Dr Oku Ampofo left us his love through publications 15 works in 20 publications in three languages spread across 53 library holdings, yes and lots of sculptures and great memories. Speaking of sculptures, this was not the first time Dr Oku Ampofo's work has been exhibited at the embassy of Ghana in DC... 14yrs ago in October 2004, his works were among an art exhibition that depicted the influence of ancient Ghanaian creativity on contemporary African-American art forms.

History does not repeat itself for no reason, Dr Oku Ampofo is reaching out again, can you hear him a bit clearer now? The dead continues to speak, let the living listen, I have done my bit... Rest in Power Dr Oku Ampofo!

Written by Oral Ofori

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Choral Extravaganza celebrates Ghana’s 61st Independence Anniversary in the US

Choirs of the Ghana Wesley United Methodist Church (GWUMC) of Woodbridge, and Alfred Street Baptist Church Trinity Choir (ASBCTC) of Alexandria, both respectively in Virginia, United States (US), treated music enthusiasts and members of the public to beautiful choral performances on March 3, 2018 at the Saint Paul Methodist United Church in Woodbridge, Virginia.

Dubbed the ‘Choral Extravaganza For Ghana’s 61st Independence Anniversary‘, the event attracted people from all over the Northern Virginia area when it began from 7pm to 8:30pm Eastern Standard Time. Music Director and organist of GWUMC Ebenezer Allotey, who is also the founder of the acclaimed Tema Youth Choir of Ghana, led his choir that night to a moving rendition of ‘Yen Ara Asaase Ni’, the unofficial national anthem of Ghana sang in the Twi dialect.

Conductor and Music Director of ASBCTC Dr. Mrs. Joyce Garrett and her choir also treated the excited audience to numbers like ‘Done Made My Vow’ and ‘I’m Determined To Walk With Jesus’ among other spiritual medleys. It was significant to note that the choir robes of ASBCTC were decked with stripes of the Kente fabric, adding color to the night’s event.

Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States His Excellency Dr. Barfour Adjei-Barwuah was represented by Mr. Eric Boateng, Head of Chancery at the Embassy of Ghana in Washington DC as the Guest of Honor. Mr. Boateng who was moved by performances of both choirs was occasionally seen joining the audience in bopping his head and singing along especially to songs he knew the words to.

According to Mr. Allottey, GWUMC choir members decided to wear the same fabric fashioned in traditional Ghanaian style “so as to be at one with the spirit of the occasion to celebrate Ghana’s attainment of independence from British colonial rule which happened March 6, 1957 under the leadership of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, the first president of Ghana, and all who joined him in the fight for freedom”

“We sang mostly patriotic songs from Ghana because we felt it was the best way to honor the spirits of all the lives lost during the independence struggle and to encourage the efforts of all who continue to fight to date for a better Ghana. We are really thankful to the head pastor of Alfred Street Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Howard-John Wesley for letting his choir participate in this event, they have always supported us over the years and we feel we are one with them now“, continued Mr. Allotey.

The audience composed of members of both churches and the curious visitors was treated to a tour of Ghana’s 10 regions by the children’s ministry of GWUMC as a way of enlightening them about the history behind the respective regions of Ghana, and to encourage visits to Ghana especially by Africans living in the Diaspora.

Some other special guests in attendance included Reverends Emmanuel Nkrumah and John Obeng respectively of GWUMC. The inclusion of the Brass Quartet during the US and Ghana National Anthems ended the concert in a very spectacular way.

Ghana Wesley United Methodist Church Choir

Afrikan Post Newspaper, and the communication consultancy firm, TheAfricanDream.co were media sponsors of the event. For more information on GWUMC and ASBCTC visit their websites at www.ghanawesleyumc.org and www.alfredstreet.org and enjoy this video of both choirs in performance.

Source: Oral Ofori

Mr. Eric Boateng, Head of Chancery at the Embassy of Ghana in Washington DC

Alfred Street Baptist Church

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Newest African Ambassadors Present Letters of Credence at White House March

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 web s ite a t www. af r ik an pos t. co m f o r d aily 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 p aper ar e th o s e o f th e a u th o r s a n d do n ot n eces s a r ily r ef lect th e views o f Af r ikan Pos t . All commen ts a n d s u g g es tio n s a r e welco me.

George Kwasi Bright Publisher and Editor

2018

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On Wednesday, January 24, 2018, three new African Ambassadors presented their Letters of Credence to President Trump at an Ambassador Credentialing Ceremony in the Oval Office at the White House.

The presentation of credentials is a traditional ceremony that marks the formal beginning of an Ambassador’s service in Washington They are:

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D E PA R T M E N T S Vol 10 Issue 3 CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT

Ghanaian Opens New Radio Station To Serves Immigrants Pg. 36

His Excellency Kassa Teklebrhan Gebrehiwet, Ambassador of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

Soldier Who Died In Bronx Fire Honored In Ghana Pg. 8

Nigerian Judge, Eboe-Osuji, becomes President of International Criminal Court Page 33

How is Your Heart?

Come Clean Pg. 11

His Excellency Dawda D. Fadera, Ambassador of the Republic of The Gambia

Nurturing the American DreamFrank Adjei-Mensah Unveils the Keys to Financial Success Pg. 12

UPDATE

Sia Finoh for Maryland House of Delegates PG County District #24 Pg. 25

His Excellency Kerfalla Yansane, Ambassador of the Republic of Guinea

Soldier Who Died In Bronx Fire Honored In Ghana March

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Private First Class (PFC) Emmanuel Mensah, a Ghanaian immigrant soldier who died while saving victims in a fire outbreak in Bronx, US has been honoured with a memorial in Ghana.

Eulogizing Emmanuel Mensah, at a memorial ceremony held at the US embassy Tuesday February 27, US Ambassador to Ghana, Robert P. Jackson described the fallen soldier as a selfless hero whose sacrifice cannot be overlooked.

“An American hero who served his nation in uniform, Private First Class Mensah sacrificed his life so that others might live, therefore embodying the noblest values of the profession of arms even while off duty.”

”His heroism is honoured both to the United States as in Ghana…His example teaches us the true meaning of citizenship, shaped and defined by his character, courage and honour. Emmanuel “performed these acts of heroism at the expense of his own life, which we honour today.”

Uncle of the deceased soldier, Andrew Kwadwo Oduro, extolled his nephew’s noble act, describing him as a man who concerned himself more with others than himself.

“I can’t be anymore prouder of him than I am today. I am proud because today we honour him not just as a valiant soldier unshaken and brave, till his last breath. He was a giant among men, one who was willing to risk it all to save one more person, a real world hero.”

He also appreciated efforts by the United States and Ghana to honour the bravery of his nephew.

Also paying homage to Emmanuel Mensah, Senior Defense Official of the US Embassy, LtCol Joseph Lee, US Marine Corps, said, he exemplified the highest value of self-sacrifice. He asked on all and sundry not to mourn but celebrate the fallen soldier.

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Aside tributes which were read, a medal citation was presented in honour of the late hero. Also in attendance was Interior Minister, Ambrose Derry, some members of Emmanuel’s family as well as his colleagues from the US Army National Guard.

About Emmanuel Owusu Mensah

Emmanuel Mensah was born April 11, 1991 at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra to Kwabena Mensah and the late Beatrice Owusu.

In 2012, Emmanuel migrated to the United States to join his father in the Bronx.

He later enlisted in the New York State Army National Guard, completing basic training and advanced individual training in 2017.

On December 28, 2107, while home for Christmas, an accidental fire broke out in a neighbour’s apartment and quickly spread through the building. Although Emmanuel initially made it safely to the street, he made four separate forays back into the building to save his fellow residents.

He however could not return after his fourth trip into the inferno as he got trapped by smoke. Emmanuel is credited with saving four lives, and will forever be recognized as an American hero.

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Seven Jailed in Fake Medicine Crackdown in West Africa

A court in Benin has jailed seven senior staff of pharmaceutical companies on charges of selling illicit medicines.

The case sets a precedent in the fight against fake medicines in West Africa.

Medicines are considered fake when they lack a crucial ingredient or contain lower levels of it than claimed.

They are sold in packaging which is often identical to the real thing.

The seven men work for wholesalers importing all kinds of medicines - ranging from painkillers to anti-malarials for sale in Benin and the region.

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United States and Libya Sign Cultural Property Protection Agreement

They were jailed for four years and fined a total of 100 million CFA Francs ($190,000; £136,000). Two other defendants were given six-month jail sentences.

Cotonou is one West Africa's biggest ports. In the past year, Benin's police have staged many raids on fake drug stores.

The country wants to shed its image as a crossroads for counterfeit goods.

Alex Duval Smith

Tillerson Fired By Trump 'during Africa Tour'

Office of the Spokesperson

Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs I. Steven Goldstein and Libyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs Under Secretary for Political Affairs Lutfi Almughrabi will sign a landmark bilateral Memorandum of Understanding on cultural property protection on February 23, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at the U.S. Department of State.

As part of the ongoing cooperation between the United States and Libya’s Government of National Accord, the United States will impose import restrictions on categories of archaeological material representing Libya’s cultural heritage dating from 12,000 B.C. through 1750 A.D. and Ottoman ethnological material from Libya dating from 1551 to 1911 A.D. Restrictions are intended to reduce the incentive for pillage and trafficking and are among the many ways the United States is combatting the financing of terrorism and disrupting the global market in illegal antiquities. These restrictions continue similar restrictions implemented by the U.S. government on an emergency basis on December 5, 2017.

The cultural property agreement negotiated by the State Department under the U.S. law implementing the 1970 UNESCO Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property underscores the United States’ commitment to our relationship with Libya, as well as our global commitment to cultural heritage protection and preservation. The United States now has similar bilateral agreements with 17 countries around the world, as well as emergency import restrictions on cultural property from Iraq and Syria.

President Trump has sacked his Secretary of State, Rex Tillerson, who had just returned from an official state tour of five African nations this morning.

He'll be replaced by the CIA director, Mike Pompeo.

In a tweet on Tuesday, Mr Trump thanked Mr Tillerson for "his service" as he put it.

Reporters for US media outlets, including the Washington Post and CNN, say Mr Tillerson was actually fired on Friday - the day he visited Djibouti and Kenya.

He then cancelled some of his activities in Kenya the following day, saying he felt unwell.

The other three countries he visited on his tour were Ethiopia, Nigeria and Chad.

On Monday, Mr Tillerson said he agreed with Britain's assessment that Russia was likely to be responsible for the poisoning in Britain of a Russian double agent and that those involved must be punished.

But his words weren't matched by the White House.

Earlier Mr Trump and Mr Tillerson has several public disagreements, specifically over how to deal with North Korea.

In one instance, Mr Tillerson pointedly refused to deny calling his boss a moron.

Source:bbcnews.com

For further information, please contact eca-press@state.gov.

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March 2018

Top 10 Highest Paid African Presidents for 2018

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King Mohammed VI is the president of Morocco who took over the mantle of leadership on July 23, 1999, following the death of his father, King Hassan II. He receives $480,000 per annum.

1. Paul Biya, Cameroon

Paul Biya is a Cameroonian politician who has been the President of Cameroon since 6 November 1982. He is currently one of the longest ruling Non-Royal head of state in the world. Though his basic salary seems low, his monthly pay package is somewhat over the board.

Did you know that African leaders are among the highest salary earners in the world? Generally, politicians or those at the hemp of leadership in different countries have varied ways of making large money in form of benefits, perks and basic salary.

Though some think a lot of world leaders including African leaders should receive incredible salaries for their dedication, perseverance and hard work, some others believe African leaders particularly seem to be earning much for doing nothing.

So not only do they conveniently enjoy power, they also enjoy extreme wealth. In actuality, politicians are supposed to be at least fair, objective and fully dedicated to their work of serving their nation.

But some of African’s leaders have turned politics into a profitable business rather than being accountable for their actions. They never indulge in thinking globally and acting locally.

Politics in Africa is no longer a selfless obligation of dragging Africa as a continent into a greater height, but an opportunity to either take part in looting the public funds or enjoy continuous salary hike and other fixed/variable benefits.

People no longer join politics in Africa to save their country’s economy or to make a name for themselves instead they do so for “cash”. Oh, yea! money is hugely the attraction lately. Politics has so turned into a lucrative career to embark upon so if you are searching for a lucrative career, you better start considering politics.

Well, my only pain here is that today’s African political leaders make huge money in a continent where many live below $2 per day. Read on to see for yourself.

Note: Most of the incomes below represent only their basic salary and as such do not include some of their fixed and variable perks.

10. Hage Geingob, Namibia

Hage Geingob is the third and the current President of Namibia, in office since 21 March 2015. He took over office from Hifikepunye Pohamba who was due to step down in 2015 because the Presidency in Namibia is restricted to two terms.

Hage Geingob receives N$1.7 million per year since Hifikepunye Pohamba received the same amount after he and all other political tax bearers got a 6% salary hike in 2017.

9. Joseph Kabila, DR Congo

Joseph Kabila Kabange has been President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo since January 2001 following the death of

his father, President Laurent-Désiré Kabila. He was elected as President in 2006 and was re-elected for a second term in 2011. He earns $110,000 annually.

8. Azali Assoumani, Comoros

Azali Assoumani is the President of Comoros who has been serving since 2016. He earns a pay package of $115,000 per annum. He previously served as the president of the country from 1999 to 2002 and again from 2002 to 2006.

7. Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, Somalia

Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed is a renowned Somali diplomat and politician who became the 9th and current President of Somalia. He earns $12000 per month in basic salary and $144,000 annually.

Mohamed assumed office as the president in 2017 after winning big in the Somali presidential election.

6. Uhuru Kenyatta, Kenya

Uhuru Kenyatta is the current president of Kenya. He is the fourth President of Kenya and has been in office since on April 9, 2013.

Kenyatta’s pockets $132,000 every year. He led by example in 2014 by taking a pay cut. His basic salary of $14,000 per month was slashed to around $11,000. Note that this does not include his numerous variable and fixed perks.

5. Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, EQ

Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo has been serving as the President of Equatorial Guinea since 1979. He earns about $150,000 yearly.

4. Abdelaziz Bouteflika, Algeria

Abdelaziz is an Algerian politician who has been the fifth President of Algeria since 1999. Before he became president of Algeria, he was Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1963 to 1976. He takes home an annual salary of around $168,000.

3. Jacob Zuma, South Africa

Zuma Jacob is the current president of South Africa. He is among the top 10 highest paid leaders in the world with a whopping annual salary of R2.9million ($ 200,411) per year.

2. King Mohammed VI, Morocco

He earns a basic salary of (200 euros) or 131, 000 CFA francs or $2,590 annually but does not include fixed premiums, and fees of sovereignty”, the weekly notes. Thus, “in addition to allowances of over 790,000 CFA francs (1,200 euros or $1295) per month which translates into $15,541 annually for housing and transportation, it is alleged that Paul Biya’s monthly allowances for sovereignty gets up to 30 million CFA francs (45,700 euros or $49,322.64) or $591,871.68 annually.

Remember that this is outside other variable perks he gets. In all, he pockets $610,002 per annum without considering other variable allowances, making him one of the richest presidents in Africa.

Honourable Mentions Salary Of Some Former African Presidents José Eduardo dos Santos

José Eduardo dos Santos is an Angolan politician who was the President of Angola from 1979 to 2017. His basic salary was $50,672.52 per annum ($4222.71 monthly using the conversion rate of 0.0092Kz to 1 US Dollar prevailing in April 2015).

He received a salary amounting to $81,075.96 per annum including 461,319 kz ( monthly salary) and an additional 276,791kz ($2533.62, $30403.44 per annum) which was a monthly allowance that comes with the salary. So in all, he pocketed $81,075.96, making him one of the richest leaders in Africa.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Liberia

Ellen Johnson was the President of Liberia between 2006 and 2018. She made history as Africa’s first female head of state. This wonderful Nobel laureate, born on October 29, 1938, received $90,000 per annum as her basic salary.

She was listed as the 70th most powerful woman in the globe by Forbes in 2014.

Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud

Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud was the 8th President of Somalia who served the country in the prestigious position from September 16, 2012, to 16 February 16, 2017.

Based on reports, he was paid a whopping $125,000 per month ($1,500,000 per annum).

Source:www.howafrica.com

How is Your Heart? Come Clean

also learn throughout the Old Testament, particularly within the book of Exodus how so many “children of God” were quick to get their hands soiled with idol worship and turn their backs on the God who saved them from Pharaoh, the Red Sea and other adversities simply because they were faced with hunger and thirst and a brief absence of Moses, their man of God. These so called children of God were punished severely for their disobedience and too many of them died at the hands of God. When we are so quick to say we love God, we love our Savior Jesus and identify ourselves as Christians, are we certain that the words we are claiming are sincere? Are we confident that they are coming from a truthful place? Are we sure Dr. Miriam C. Gyimah that our hands have not been compromised and still being compromised with properties of Satan, the enemy of Christ When the supposed righteous and powerful King and our souls? Psalm 24 vs. 3 asks, “who may ascend into the David, God’s own chosen and anointed leader of His hill of the Lord? And who may stand in His Holy place?” then begotten Israel, became a voyeur of Bathsheba’s naked the psalmist, King David himself, answers saying, “He who body, how was his heart? When this same chosen king has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted up his sexually seduced or perhaps raped this wife of a soldier soul to an idol, nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive a blessbusily fighting on the fields, in David’s own war, how ing from the Lord and righteousness from the God of his salwas his heart? When upon discovering that Bathsheba vation” (4-5). had become pregnant and David attempted to cover up King David clearly knew what he was speaking of the pregnancy by orchestrating Uriah’s return home, when he wrote the psalm. He had been righteous and unrighthoping Uriah would sleep with his wife and clandestineeous and he knew very well the different positions he placed ly pin the pregnancy on him, how was his heart? When himself in with his choices and actions. When his unrighteousDavid found that it was useless to tempt Uriah with his ness left him as the object of God’s anger and disappointment, own wife (Uriah didn’t think it was right to sleep with his wife while the other soldiers were at war away from when his treacherous behavior left him alone and without the their wives.) and that he David could not cover his adul- Spirit of God, he prayed, “create in me a clean heart and renew the right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy terous sin and therefore conspired to have Uriah killed presence and take not thine Holy Spirit from me. Restore on the battlefield and was successful, I ask: how clean unto me the joy of thy salvation and grant me a willing spirit were his hands? Finally, when upon Uriah’s death, to sustain me” (Psalm 51: 10-12). David sinned, big time, but David marries Bathsheba, pretending that he was doing he also had an open heart and was ready to surrender it fully an honorable thing, how was his heart? (II Samuel 11).

As professed children of God, we might and, then again, to His God in supplication and obedience. David wrote psalm 51 as a prayer of repentance after he had committed his sin might not be so deliberate in our sins and our plans to sin and subsequent cover up. Yet all the same, we might against Bathsheba and Uriah. Are we willing to do as David after he had sinned? Are we willing to repent and ask God to venture where we know we should not. Let’s stop and renew us and keep us away from unrighteousness? ask ourselves the question, how is our heart and how When we sin, we become separated from God and clean are our hands?

Are your hands clean? Is your heart pure? These are when we live in sin and still continue to attend church and pretend as if all is well with our relationship with God, we are questions we must ask and answer for ourselves if we are to benefit from the promises of the kingdom of God. living a lie. Perhaps some of us want to live a lie because living the truth might be too challenging for our flesh, which Written by King David himself, Psalm 24 vs. 1 tells us “the earth is the Lord’s and all it contains, the world, and perhaps, we still have not crucified for Christ even as He has those who dwell in it.” If you should read this psalm in already required of us. If we deliberately sin and/or plot to sin exclusion of the verses which follow it, you will not get as David did or we actively or passively live in sin, yet claim the full message and import of the psalm’s purpose. By we love God, then we are not serious about our salvation and relationship with God. If we live in sin and still expect to be reading only the first verse, you might become excited blessed by God, outside of the everyday rain and sunshine that and feel a confirmation within your heart and faith that everyone gets, then we are yet again blind and delusional yes, indeed, God is the creator of all things and all people, so He has everything in His hands and I can pray for about spiritual truths and what it takes to maintain a rightful relationship with God. For the Bible tells us that we must any blessing or petition Him to deal with my enemies. worship Him in spirit and in truth. And Christ Himself tells This much is true; however, if you continue to read the rest of the psalm, you will come to learn what David has us that “if you love me, keep my commands” (John 14:15).

What’s more, we bring curses and unnecessary hardships upon realized in his relationship with God, which is, if we desire to live under the blessings and loving power of the ourselves when we don’t follow God’s commands. In the book of Deuteronomy chapter 28, God clearly lays out to His Lord, then we must consider our hands and hearts serichildren all the blessings they will receive should they obey ously and be truthful of where we stand with our God. Him and then also all the curses they will endure if they negToo many people somehow believe they stand with lect His word. If one calls herself a child of God, the do’s and God but sadly, they do not because Jesus Himself don’ts are very clear. There are no compromises, so having warned us when He said, “not everyone who says to Me, the Bible at your disposal, you cannot be ignorant of what is ‘Lord, Lord’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he righteous or unrighteous. who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will Unfortunately, too often we want to do our own thing enter” (Matt. 7:21). The Bible also tells us that “for and sometimes we become complacent in our sin and accept it many are called, but few are chosen” (Matt. 24:14). We

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as part of our lifestyle and believe all is well with us and God simply because we may not sense the anger of God in our lives. So we think we are ok and in the right with God. Not so. David committed his sin and thought he had gotten away with it. He continued to reign as king and had taken Bathsheba as his wife and no one knew, but God knew and because His word never changes, because His expectations of his children never change, He was angry with David. The merciful God directs His prophet Nathan to remind and confront David of his sin and for him to learn that He has not and is not getting away with his adulterous and murderous commissions.

As Christians, our poor choices can result in big or small mistakes. Clearly, it was a deliberate evil and self-serving mistake of his flesh when David took another man’s wife, impregnated her and killed that man in an attempt to cover up his sin. But the beauty of being a Christian and having a loving and forgiving God is that although you might go astray, although you might venture where you have no business, if you bear His name as your identity, you can be forgiven, renewed and reclaimed, just as the prodigal son in the New Testament and just as King David.

When the prophet Nathan was sent by God to confront David of his evil deeds, David sorrowfully repented and sought for God’s forgiveness. And while he was still punished for his actions, God forgave him; God didn’t kill him as He did to so many in the biblical past and God also did not dethrone David as he had dethroned Saul. That God forgave David is significant, but we must note that what is most important after all is said and done is man’s repentance, making the decision to stand with God and falling in line with His word, subjecting yourself to His commands.

Moreover, we must also acknowledge and accept that God is Lord of all, including every area of our lives. The innate heart and mind of David to honor and to subject himself to the will and servitude of God, to accept God’s word without resistance, is why God calls him a man after his own heart (I Samuel 13:14). This is exactly what God wants of us, to see and know that we love Him and His word completely.

He wants our hearts to melt and our wills to bend to His word. In the end, God wants to see that we love Him more than He wants to hear it, because saying we love God but not showing it with our actions is untruthful. In His complete humility, the warrior king, David prayed to God confessing his sins. Can we also examine our lives and confess our sins? Can we turn away from the lust of the flesh, the eye and the pride of life to live in true righteousness with God? Can we be completely honest in our relationship with God so that there is nothing hindering our blessings and no curses befalling us? If we can do that, then with His help and by His grace, we are keeping our hearts pure and our hands clean.

MTN Named ‘Most Valuable Telecom’ Brand In Africa

Here Are The 15 Countries African Citizens Can Visit Without A Visa March 2018

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Travelling within Africa is becoming more flexible as more African states are opening up their borders to foreigners looking to visit.

With just a valid passport, you can gain entry into these African countries without having to stress yourself over a visa. Note that you may, however, be required to apply for a visa if you’re not an African citizen.

Seychelles Cameroon

Benin Cape Verde Tanzania

MTN has once again been named among the top 300 valuable telecom brands in the world. In the research conducted by Brand Finance, MTN is the most valuable telecom brand based in Africa and 45th in the world. Based in South Africa, the MTN Group has about 25 subsidiaries most of which are in Africa. According to the research, moved 2 places from 47th 2017 to 45th in 2018.

MTN’s value was placed at $3.3bn, a rise of 9% in 2018. MTN also got an AAA- rating from AA+ in 2017.

The improved valuation of MTN cements its position as the most valuable telecom brand in Africa, just as it did in 2017. MTN’s largest competitor on the continent, Airtel is not ranked based on its Africa operations but rather the larger company, Airtel, which is headquartered in India.

Africell is also mentioned in the report, ranking at 228th on the continent.

According to the report, other African based telecoms that have been ranked include; Safaricom, Kenya (99th), Maroc Telecom, Morocco (111th), Glo Mobile, Nigeria (130th), Sonatel, Senegal (136th), Telkom, South Africa (140th), Cell C, South Africa (158th), Inwi, Morocco (169th), Telecom Egypt (201st), Blue Label Telecoms, South Africa (207th) and Econet, Zimbabwe (223rd), Africell, Gambia (228th), Ethio-Mobile, Eithiopia (231st), Tunisie Telecom, Tunisia (237th), Movitel, Mozambique (239th), Libyana, Libya (250th).

The telecoms ranked above 50th position did not have their valuations revealed in the report.

“Whilst American telecoms brands are at the top of the table, they are grappling with falling brand values as they find themselves navigating a complex regulatory environment and competitive offerings from the internet challengers, all whilst battling sinking revenues. In order to survive in the digital era, telecoms must put up a strong fight by adopting innovative strategies,” David Haigh CEO, Brand Finance.

In a global context, the report shows that the top 10 valuable brands in 2018 were the same as in 2017. The top 10 list has 3 American companies, two Chinese companies, and two Japanese companies, indicating the dominance of some of the strongest economies in the world.

America’s AT&T remains in the top spot, with a value of $82.4bn. In the top 10, it is China Telecom that is the largest mover from 10th to 7th, with its value jumping by 36% to $24bn.

“Telecoms revenue growth has been in decline since 2013 as more customers opt for Over-TheTop (OTT) messaging services to remain in touch. With Microsoft (Skype), Facebook (Messenger, WhatsApp), Amazon (Alexa), Tencent (WeChat), Google (Hangouts) and many other firms expanding in this space, demand for OTT services is causing telecoms brands to adapt fast,” the report reads.

Source:https://howafrica.com

Nigeria

Zambia

Mozambique Uganda

Ivory Coast Ghana Kenya

Zimbabwe

Burkina Faso

Guess you didn’t know you can visit these countries without a Visa before and now you know, make a move today….

March 2018

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March 2018

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Top 10 Richest African Countries 2018 by GDP Per Capita ers of light sweet crude. More than three-fourths of Libya’s growing economy is believed to be predominantly propelled by its oil production sector. 96% of the country’s GDP is considered to be fueled by the revenue earned from the export of oil, gas, and gypsum.

According to the World Bank, Libya is among the few African countries having an upper middle economy. As of 2017, the GDP and GDP (PPP) per capita of Libya were $29.15 billion and $14,600 respectively with a population of 6,278,438.

8. Angola

Even though the continent is being lead by corrupt leaders and official, some countries in Africa can still boost of a stangering economy based on the natural resources they’ve been blessed with.

Africa as a continent is one of the finest examples of an everevolving and ever-growing modern economy. Over the years, the home to 51 countries, Africa has witnessed an admirable newer commercial vibrancy propelled majorly by the high sales of raw materials such as gold, diamonds, etc.

Recently, some of the African countries were recorded to have a higher gross national income per capita than Asian countries like India and China. Following given is a list of the top 10 richest countries in Africa as of 2018 based on their GDP per capita.

The list of Top 10 Richest African Countries 2018

10. Tunisia 9. Libya 8. Angola 7. Botswana 6. Gabon 5. Egypt 4. Equatorial Guinea 3. South Africa 2. Nigeria 1. Seychelles 10. Tunisia

Considered to be one of the finest operating economies of the continent, the North African country’s major economic contributions come from its rich oil and gas production levels.

The diversified economy of Tunisia is powered by chief exports including phosphates, agro-food products, chemical, textiles, etc. Tourism is another major contributor to Tunisia’s fast-growing economy with the major attractions being the cosmopolitan capital city of Tunis, Jerba’s Muslim quarters, the ancient ruins of Carthage, etc. As of 2017, the GDP and GDP (PPP) per capita of Tunisia were $43.02 billion and $11,400 respectively with a population of 11,431,780.

9. Libya

Another country with an exquisitely well-defined economic system, Libya is believed to have the largest certified oil reserve in the continent as well as among the world’s suppli-

Angola’s economy is also overwhelmingly powered by the oil sector accounting for more than half of the country’s GDP. The oil sector of Angola constitutes 75% of the government revenue and about 91% of the nation’s total exports. Over the years, the African country has witnessed a whole reconstruction of its economy with the oil and gas sectors serving as the major contributors.

Other economic boosters include the exports of diamonds (5%) and agro-foods (2%). As of 2017, the GDP and GDP (PPP) per capita of Angola were $102.7 billion and $7,300 respectively with a population of 20,172,993.

7. Botswana

Situated in the Southern part of Africa, Botswana is among the fastest growing economies in the continent and has served as a major contributor in elevating Africa’s economic conditions. The major sectors contributing majorly to the growing economy of the landlocked Botswana include the mining, tourism, and cattle sector. To be specific, the boosted economy is a result of the exceptional levels of diamond mining, well-defined conservative fiscal policies, and a surprisingly low rate of corruption. As of 2017, the GDP and GDP (PPP) per capita of Botswana were $14.39 Billion and $16,400 respectively with a population of 2,262,445.

6. Gabon

Gabon is considered to be one of Africa’s largest producing nations of oil. Located in the west coast of Central Africa, the country’s exquisite economic condition is owed to the extensive exports of oil, manganese, uranium, and timber which constitute more than threefourths of the nation’s GDP. One of the foremost boosters of the economy of Gabon has been the well-defined foreign investment policies along with a lower level of population which creates a sense of stability in the economy. As of 2017, the GDP and GDP (PPP) per capita of Gabon were $14.34 billion and $18,600 respectively with a population of 1,725,292.

5. Egypt

Probably one of the most historic landmark nations of the continent, Egypt is among the world’s powerhouses of art and literature culture tracing back to 10 BC. Apart from the country’s historical and cultural aspects, the Egypt economy is one of the fastest growing African diversified economies with its major exports ranging from crude oil and petroleum products to cotton and textiles. Another major contributor to this diversified economy is, undoubtedly, the tourism sector due to an extensive range of historical monuments and landmarks of the country. As of 2017, the GDP and GDP (PPP) per capita of Egypt were $330.7 Billion and $11,800 respec-

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tively with a population of 91,508,084.

4. Equatorial Guinea

One of the smallest countries in the continent, the Central African country is the third largest oil producer in Africa. The Spanish-speaking country is considered to be one of the fastest growing small-level economies in the world with its chief contributor being the oil exports. Apart from being a modern developing economy, the country also bears an exceptional resource potential containing undeveloped resource reserves of precious elements such as uranium, iron ore, gold, and titanium. As of 2017, the GDP and GDP (PPP) per capita of Equatorial Guinea were $9.4 Billion and $31,800 with a population of 845,060.

3. South Africa

Declared as one of the few African countries to have an upper middle economy by the World Bank, South Africa’s boosting economy is powered by exports of gold, diamonds, platinum, machinery, and other metals and minerals. South Africa has witnessed a development of gargantuan proportions in the tourism sector after the FIFA World Cup of 2010 was conducted here. As of 2017, the GDP and GDP (PPP) per capita of South Africa were $312.80 billion and $13,200 respectively with a population of 54,956,920.

2. Nigeria

Having surpassed South Africa in 2016, the Nigerian economy is set to be the largest African economy in the near future. Considered to be an everdeveloping nation, Nigeria is ranked 21st in terms of nominal GDP globally and 20th in terms of purchasing power parity. With an exceptional reemergent economic model, Nigeria is one of the largest oil-producing nations in the continent. However, oil exports only constitute 10% of the nation’s GDP. Other economic boosters include aircraft parts exports, vessels, cocoa, tobacco, etc. As of 2017, the GDP and GDP (PPP) per capita of Nigeria were $594.23 billion and $6,003 respectively with a population count of 173,600,000.

1. Seychelles

Probably one of the unknown economies of the African Continent, Seychelles has witnessed enormous development which has led to a boost of substantial proportions in its economy. Taking the low population count as an advantage, the tourism sector and fishing industry have made Seychelles one of the well-structured, ever-growing, and balanced economies in the world. The Seychelles economy has an exceptionally low unemployment rate, at 1%. As of 2017, the GDP and GDP (PPP) per capita of Seychelles were $1.438 billion and $26,400 respectively with a population count of 92,900.

From the above list, it is confirmed that the African economy is one of the stably ever-growing economies in the world with exceptionally low unemployment rates and great nominal per capita GDP rates.

Source: https://howafrica.com

Afrikan

March 2018

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Top 10 Aid Recipient African Countries You Need To Know 9.Nigeria – Total (FY 2012) 228 Million Nigeria has been experiencing conflict as the divided country has been plagued by poverty and sporadic terrorist attacks. poverty, Corruption, drop in global oil prices, drought and famine have also made the country’s economy unstable. The U.S helps to alleviate the issues by donating $625 million annually. The country has always been ranked top United States Aid Recipients in Africa.

8.Uganda – Total (FY 2012) 353 Million Uganda have reportedly received a total of $1.45M in disbursed aid from the US government in 2017, which is a decrease of 11,444% from the last reported total in 2016 ($167M in the previous year.

TheAid disbusemnet this country recieved is higher than average for all countries in Sub-Saharan Africa and higher than average for other nations in the world. The amount equates to about $0.04 per person based on Uganda’s total population of 39M.

The United States offers foreign aid to other countries to support global peace, security, promote development efforts, and provide humanitarian relief in times of crisis. It is a strategic, economic, and moral imperative for the United States and vital to U.S. national security. Some of the top African US Aid recipients will shock you.

The U.S. gives foreign aid to maintain diplomatic relations and to help the poor. The U.S. provides to help impoverished countries gain economic stability so that they can become economically independent and consumers of U.S. goods.

Below is the ranking list of the Top Ten US African Aid Recipient Countries: Egypt – Total (FY 2012) 2.71 Billion Ethiopia – Total (FY 2012) 871 Million Kenya- Total (FY 2012) 752 Million South Sudan – Total (FY 2012) 445 Million Somalia – Total (FY 2012) 420 Million Tanzania – Total (FY 2012) 403 Million The Democratic Republic of Congo – Total (FY 2012) 389 Million Uganda – Total (FY 2012) 353 Million Nigeria – Total (FY 2012) 228 Million Sudan – Total (FY 2012) 293 Million The United Stated offers foreign assistance programs in over 100 countries in the world through various U.S. Government agencies.

These investments boost America’s foreign policy interests on subjects such as expanding free markets, fighting extremism, ensuring stable democracies and concentrating on the root causes of poverty, while simultaneously nurturing global good will.

10.Sudan – Total (FY 2012) 293 Million African Aided countries

Sudan received a total of $101M in disbursed aid from the US government in 2016, this was a decrease of 118% from the last reported total in 2015 ($221M). Surprisingly, Sudan ranks tenth among African US Aid recipients and lies tenth in our list.

The support Sudan received is one of the highest amounts for all countries in Sub-Saharan Africa (Avg. $685,220) and significantly higher than average for all countries in the world (Avg. $549,739).

This amount shows a disbusement of about $2.51 per person based on Sudan’s total population of 40.2M.

7.The Democratic Republic of Congo – Total (FY 2012) 389 Million In 2016, the Republic of the Congo got a total of $695,061 in disbursed from the US government as their aid to the country. It is a significant decrease of 166% from the last reported total in 2015.

The support the Republic of the Congo received is close to average for all countries in Sub-Saharan Africa (Avg. $685,220) and higher than average for all countries in the world (Avg. $549,739) making it one of the United States aid recipients in Africa.

6.Tanzania – Total (FY 2012) 403 Million Tanzania banked a total of $1.51M in disbursed aid from the US government in 2017, this was a decreased amount of 9,603% from the last reported total back in the previous year.

The help Tanzania received is significantly higher than average for all countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. The amount is also higher than average for all countries in the world. This figure equates around $0.03 per person based on Tanzania’s total population of 53.5M.

5.Somalia – Total (FY 2012) 420 Million

This Nation received a total of $123,143 in disbursed aid from the US government in 2017, a decrease of 91,488% from the last reported total in 2016.

The support Somalia received is lower than average for all countries in Sub-Saharan Africa (Avg. $685,220) and lower than average for all countries in the world. This amount equates to about $0.01 per person based on Somalia’s total population of 10.8M.

4.South Sudan – Total (FY 2012) 445 Million South Sudan got a total of $137,448 as their aid disbursement amount from the US government in 2017, a decrease of 219,991% from the last reported total in 2016. The help South Sudan received is lower than average for all countries in Sub-Saharan Africa and lower than average for all countries in the world. The amount equates to about $0.01 per person based on South Sudan’s total population of 12.3M. The country has always been Aid Recipient Africa Countries.

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3.Kenya- Total (FY 2012) 752 Million Kenya is a diversified economy and is the second most populous in East Africa. The country boasts a young, ambitious and well-educated workforce eager to contribute to its development. Kenya plays a vital role as the East African gateway in transportation in the sub-sahara Africa.

As an important developing country in East Africa, Kenya has been a significant recipient of U.S. foreign assistance for more than ten decades. The country is among the top United States Aid Recipients in Africa.

2.Ethiopia – Total (FY 2012) 871 Million The nation received a total of $1.26M in disbursed aid from the United States government in 2017, a decrease of 29,739% of the last reported total in 2016.

The support Ethiopia received is higher than average for all countries in Sub-Saharan Africa and greater than average for all the nations in the world. Based on Ethiopia’s total population of 99.4M the amount equals to around $0.01 per individual.

1.Egypt – Total (FY 2012) 2.71 Billion African US Aided countries

Political turmoil has taken over Egypt since the Arab revolt; tourist destinations Alexandria and Cairo have y been on the do-not-travel list of several countries because of civil unrest and economic instability. The situation has made it top of the African US Aid recipients list. The U.S. gives $1.557 billion to Egypt in hopes of helping the citizens and maintaining Egypt as a political ally.

Egypt was disbursed a total of $53.8M in aid from the US government in 2016. However, this is a decrease of 41% from the last reported total in 2015.

Conclusion The United States gives foreign aid to several countries through agencies such as USAID. The U.S. has been doing this to improved the livelihood of the people of some of the continents. The list of Aid Recipient Africa Countries helps the US in its diplomatic relations with other nations. Many of the aid recipients are countries with the fastest growing economies in the world and others are its political allies.

https://howafrica.com

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Nigerian Princess, Tutu Ademilyi’s Paint Sells for African Record £1.2m

Afrikan

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Ben Enwonwu’s paint of Ile-Ife princess, Adetutu Ademiluyi, known as Tutu, has fetched in a London auction £1, 205,000, four times more than expected.

The Nigerian masterpiece, initially declared missing was found in a “modest north London flat” recently.

The painting, ranked by arts collectors with Mona Lisa, was done by Nigeria’s renowned artist late Ben Enwonwu in 1974.

Bonhams, the auction company announced the record price for the paint, which measures 97 x 66.5cm and was signed by Enwonwu and dated 1974.

The identity of the buyer of the Lot 47 has not been disclosed yet.

There were other Enwonwu’s paints sold today, but none fetched anything near Tutu.

Enwonwu’s Fulani Girl fetched £13,125. Children of Onitsha got £11,250.

A Driveway Ibadan fetched £12,150, while Dancers got £11,250.

Itachafo Muo, another Enwonwu’s paint was sold for £18,750. A Tree Lined Village got £40,000, Negritude £100,000 and Female Form, £110,000

The other Nigerian artist whose work was also of great reckoning during the auction was Yusuf Adebayo Cameron Grillo. His ‘Evangelists: Cymbal, Triangle and Tambourine’ done in 1964, was sold for £56,250.

Bonhams says on its website that Ben Enwonwu’s portraits of Tutu have achieved a high level of celebrity because the paintings were some of the most enigmatic works produced by a Nigerian artist in the 20th century.

Nurturing the American DreamFrank Adjei-Mensah Unveils the Keys to Financial Success March 2018

Frank Adjei-Mensah, a Ghanaian born, US-based author has just donated hundreds of copies of his latest publication, titled “NURTURING THE AMERICAN DREAM” to the Princeton school district in Cincinnati, Ohio, planning to make it a textbook in elementary and high schools.

Frank maintains that Financial Education is THE KEY to Financial Success. The most practical remedy for combating poverty. He says it is the elusive, albeit a critical missing piece of the puzzle in the Education System which promises Financial Success.

Frank Adjei-Mensah is a product of KNUST who graduated in the year 2000 with classmates that included Her Excellency Mrs. Samira Bawumia, the wife of the Vice President of Ghana.

Frank, who represents his son’s school on the District Superintendent of Education’s Advisory Board, plans to broaden the net to ensure that every child on the planet receives a copy.

This, he hopes, would guarantee that no child would be left uninformed of the vital information and understanding they need on the ubiquitous market economy, as well as the attitudes, mindsets, and habits they must cultivate earlier in their lives, to help position themselves better to achieve their Dreams.

An autographed copy of the book was recently presented to the Asantehene Otumfour Nana Osei Tutu II at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi by his wife, Felicia.

In 1971, Enwonwu, who died in1994, at the age of 77, was appointed the first professor of Fine Art at the University of Ife.

“The violence of the Nigerian/Biafran conflict (1967-1970) was still fresh in public consciousness, and academic institutions were tasked with promoting a spirit of national reconciliation. Enwonwu embraced this duty, using Negritude ideology and imagery to explore issues of cultural identity and political contestation that the Nigerian civil war had laid bare. The artist created a number of his most famous works during this period, including three portraits – all titled Tutu – of a young Yoruba woman named Adetutu Ademiluyi, a granddaughter of a previous Ooni (king) of Ife.

“Enwonwu frequently made trips to the countryside surrounding Ife, sketching the landscape and recording cultural traditions and practices. It was during one of these visits that he encountered Tutu. He was so impressed by her beauty and unusual features that he asked her parents for permission to paint her. Enwonwu may have also been motivated by her status as a royal princess of Ife – he was also of royal lineage, descended from the Umuezearoli of Onitsha. In addition, winning the approval of the Ife royal house would offer the artist protection from any problems arising from his Igbo ethnicity, a contentious issue in post-war Nigeria.”

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The Asante King Receiving a Copy of the Book

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March 2018

Cyril Ramaphosa Succeeds Zuma as South African President

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Some will miss him though, pointing to achievements like announcing the abolition of fees for higher education, says the BBC’s Milton Nkosi in Johannesburg.

Mr. Zuma, a former member of the ANC’s military wing in the days of apartheid, rose through the ranks of the party to become president. He led the country for more than a third of its time after apartheid.

But he leaves office with several scandals hanging over him, and with South Africa’s economy in dire straits.

Money laundering charges Shaun Abrahams, head of the National Prosecuting Authority, told Reuters news agency: “I’ve been advised by my prosecuting team that Mr. Ajay Gupta is a fugitive from justice.”

But eight other suspects did appear in court on Thursday on fraud and money laundering charges, local media report.

The only member of the Gupta family to appear was Varun, who was Chief Operating Officer of the Gupta-owned mining firm Oakbay Resources and Energy. All eight told the court they had done nothing wrong.

Cyril Ramaphosa has become South Africa’s president a day after embattled leader Jacob Zuma resigned.

He was the only candidate nominated by parliament, which is dominated by his African National Congress. MPs broke into song at the announcement.

In his first presidential speech, Mr. Ramaphosa, 65, said he would tackle the corruption which allegedly became widespread under Mr Zuma.

The ANC had told Mr. Zuma to step down or face a vote of no-confidence.

Mr. Zuma faces numerous corruption allegations but denies any wrongdoing.

One allegation is that he allowed the wealthy Gupta family, who whom he has personal ties, to wield influence over policy, in an example of “state capture”.

president.

Dream finally realized Analysis: Lebo Diseko, BBC News, Johannesburg

It is often said that Mr. Ramaphosa has had his eye on the position of president since the ANC came to power in 1994.

The story goes that he was so upset at not having been chosen by Nelson Mandela as his successor that he left politics and went into business.

But Mr. Ramaphosa has now finally realized that dream.

He has said his priority is reviving South Africa’s battered economy. But it won’t be easy: Unemployment is currently at almost 30%, a rate which rises to nearly 40% for young people.

An arrest warrant has been issued for Ajay Gupta, one of the three most prominent Gupta brothers, officials said on Thursday.

Low growth rates and dwindling investor confidence were compounded by two credit agencies downgrading the economy to junk status.

President Ramaphosa told parliament that corruption and state capture were “on our radar screen”.

New hope for the economy There is a renewed sense of hope as Mr. Ramaphosa is taking over the reins of Africa’s most industrialized economy.

This follows a raid by the Hawks, an elite police unit, on their home on Wednesday. The family has denied corruption allegations.

He is due to deliver a State of the Nation address on Friday.

This was delayed last week amid uncertainty about who should deliver it and Mr Zuma’s reluctance to step down.

One opposition party, the Economic Freedom Fighters, walked out of the parliamentary debate. It wants new elections, rather than the ANC deciding on the identity of the new

One of the first steps in improving that investor confidence is addressing the persistent claims of corruption at the heart of government.

The markets appeared to welcome Mr. Zuma’s resignation. The South African currency, the rand, reaching its strongest levels in three years – at 11.6570 rands for $1 in early trading.

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Sia Finoh for Maryland House of Delegates Prince George’s County District #24

March 2018

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Despite everything that’s going on with our government in Washington, America is still presumed to be the “land of the free”, where you are free to do, say and become whoever we want. “The home of the brave” where you are encouraged to work hard and reap what you sow. Basically, it is a land where dreams, passion, and talent are rewarded; a land of unparalleled opportunities. It is simply a land where the activity of imagining things, especially ideas that seems impossible or improbable, can be transformed into reality. As a daughter of an immigrant, an immigrant from West Africa myself and like so many other immigrants; these are the values we came to seek in the United States of America. This is the reason why I am honored to be our candidate for the Maryland House of Delegates, District 24. I have been involved in civic activism for more than a decade in Prince George’s County. I now feel the time has come for me to seek this elected office. My goal is to produce fresh ideas and find concrete solutions to our most pressing issues, as a Delegate in the General Assembly. The 2018 election year promises to be very exciting as new candidates registered to have an office; each promising to address key issues. This is clearly a sign that people are energized and determined to make a positive change in our community. For so long, poor leadership has led to a decline in morality and conduct. We have lost our way. We have seen:

(A.)Bribes amount our Elected Officials has increased through the years, (B).Violence in our schools,

(C.) 5,500 students allowed to graduate without making the grade. (D.) The superintendent proposed a 2.1 Billion dollar budget; but what will be the outcome of the proposed 2.1 considering the same old scathing State audit? It is time to bring civility, honor, and respect back to Prince George’s County (“from the Statehouse to Your house”). I am a parent of three children; a son who is in U.S Army, a daughter who attends Morgan State University and a toddler, a daughter, and a native of Prince George’s County. I am fighting for a better future for us and our children. Your story is my story, and when we get to Annapolis, they will finally hear from us by advocating for hope, opportunity, and a better life for all. At the Sia Finoh Victory Campaign, we are committed to putting our people first. Prince Georgians must come first. It is not about the top 10 percent, but the other 90 percent of Prince Georgians; who believe that one’s own freedom, justice, peace, and opportunity are best preserved and enhanced through the protection and advancement of our fellow citizens. We are committed to serving businesses and our communities to the best of our

ability. With your assistance I know we will go a long way in fulfilling our goals. Our focus will be on supporting our local business community, enhancing employment opportunities, and preparing our youths to meet the challenges of 21 century. Let your voice be heard. Make your vote count: Vote Sia Finoh on June 26. Early voting June 14th – 24th.

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Hill, Springdale, Suitland, Summerfield, Walker Mill, Woodmore State Legislative District: MD-24 Prince George’s County ZIP Codes: 20706, 20720, 20721, 20743, 20746, 20747, 20748, 20769, 20774, 20785

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Ghanaian Enterpreneur Honored Among African Americans In Central Ohio

March 2018

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Seminar on Ghana's RTI Bill held at the Embassy of Ghana in Washington DC

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Entrepreneur Yaw Agyekum Honored among African-American Leaders in Central Ohio

Yaw Owusu Agyekum, Chief executive officer of New Millennium Home Health Agency in Columbus, Ohio, has been honored along with distinguished leaders in the African-American community in the 15th edition of “Who’s Who in Black Columbus” The annual publication is highlights achievements of African-Americans in business, law, academia, industry and community.

Agyekum, who is also known in many social circles as Akili, was recognized for his entrepreneurial drive and for creating opportunities for others in Central Ohio. “I am humbled by this honor, and I share it with my wife and the teams of people who continue to help me execute the vision,” Agyekum said. “This recognition is a reminder to continue to do my part to help build a strong, thriving community for all our people.”

A native of Ghana, Yaw Agyekum founded New Millennium Home Health with his wife, Delali, in Columbus and has served as its CEO since 2005. He leads a team of healthcare professionals in delivering a wide range of health care services. He is also a Principal in Akidel Investments, a real estate company providing housing to low-to-middle income households.

Active in his church and community, Yaw and his wife founded the Yaw & Delali Foundation to assist orphans, widows and other community members in need. In Central Ohio and around North America, Yaw and Delali support many charitable causes aimed at strengthening Ghanaian communities and helping them thrive.

Ohio State University President Michael Drake said in a speech at the event that, “Among those things I think this publication does best is it gives our people a chance to see those who have blazed trails in front of them and to give them an idea of what they can do in their lives.”

Gracing the cover of this year’s publication is prominent Columbus attorney Alex Shumate, managing partner of Squire Patton Boggs, who also received a lifetime achievement award.

Agyekum recalled a recent Independence Day speech by Ghana’s president Nana Akufo-Addo where he reminded Ghanaians to effectively harness their own resources and creatively deploy them for rapid economic and social transformation. “I take that call to action very seriously, whether with my work here in the U.S. or in Ghana,” Agyekum added. “I have been given much, and I believe much is expected from me. With God’s help, I will do my part.”

Source:Charles Ntiamoah-Mensah/www.3gmediaonline.com

PHOTO: His Excellency Dr. Barfour Adjei-Barwuah - Ghana's Ambassador to the United States is (3rd left), Thomas Susman - Director of Governmental Affairs Office at the American Bar Association (left), Kevin Taylor - CEO of Loud Silence Media (2nd left), George Kwasi Bright - Editor and Publisher of the Afrikan Post newspaper (4th left), Jeffrey Bartholet - a Senior Editor with the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting (2nd right), and extreme right is Oral Ofori - Founder of TheAfricanDream.com

The proposed Right To Information (RTI) Bill of Ghana which has been in the country's Parliament for over a decade and a half without being passed, is expected to give the public access to information held by public institutions and private entities which use state funds.

According to President Akufo-Addo of Ghana in his March 6, 2018, independence day address, the government has set a fresh timeline to get the RTI passed and it will be before the rising of parliament this year... Mr. Kevin Taylor of Loud Silence Media on March 9, 2018, played host to an RTI (https://lnkd.in/dmHTz8A) seminar at the Embassy of Ghana in Washington DC, USA.

The event Coordinator was Oral Ofori of TheAfricanDream LLC and His Excellency Dr. Barfour Adjei-Barwuah Ghana's Ambassador to the US - was the special guest of honor. The panelists included Jeffrey Bartholet who is a Senior Editor with the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting, Thomas Susman who is Director of Governmental Affairs Office at the American Bar Association, and George Kwasi Bright who is the publisher of the Afrikan Post newspaper.

This video is from the event...

Photo by Kwame Asante Ofori

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March 2018 Page

Edusei Foundation builds clinic, flats for Tamale Children’s Home

Dr. and Mrs. Kwame Bawuah-Edusei and family on the eve of Valentine’s Day led the Edusei Foundation to present a newly built and fully furnished modern medical clinic, medical ward, 40-bed dormitory and nurses flat to Tamale Children’s Home.The foundation chose not only to show love to the underprivileged as pertains to Valentine’s Day, but also to demonstrate their sincere love for children in general. Dr. Kwame Bawuah-Edusei’s connection with the people of Tamale dates back to more than three decades ago.It will be recalled that on a number of occasions in the 1990’s, Dr. Bawuah- Edusei leveraged on his work in various medical centers in the USA to organize a medical team from the USA to Tamale to conduct health screening, treatment and preventive medicine.In addition to this, the Foundation has been donating food items and medical supplies to selected orphanages in the three northern regions. It also donated to the Catholic Charity Foundation to help their philanthropic works in the three regions in the north.

Dr. Bawuah-Edusei as a nationalist and patriotic citizen of his beloved country has always felt the need to contribute to the medical cause of the nation, as this medical philanthropic works have been ongoing ever since.The Edusei Foundation has come to a conclusion that, it is very difficult for a child to be in an orphanage in a third world country. It is even more challenging when these children have underlining medical conditions.

That is why the Foundation moved to build a fully furnished modern medical clinic from the founders’ own resource to make the life of the children in the orphanage better.The Foundation has also built nurses flat to ensure the commitment of the professional care givers at the orphanage.In the case of the Tamale Children’s Home, prior assessment revealed the facility was in dire need of a dormitory block for the orphanage for which the Edusei Foundation has responded by building a furnished dormitory block.All the three facilities were presented to Tamale Children’s Home administration to ensure smooth running of the orphanage’s operations.Background of Edusei Foundation Dr. and Mrs. Bawuah-Edusei and family established the Edusei foundation in 2013 to give back to the community through helping to empower women and the younger generation to aim and achieve higher height through hard work, selflessness and positive thinking and actions.

This and the family background of philanthropy has been the source of motivation in all their endeavors which include donations, charity works, youth workshops, and building of clinics since its creation both in Ghana and the Diaspora.

The Tamale Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE), Iddrisu Musah, also known as Musah Superior Inspecting the facility

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President Nana Akufo Addo Makes History in the United States

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The Ghanaian President, Nana Addo Akufo-Addo on Sunday February 25, 2018 became the first African leader to address the 50 US Governors at an NGA meeting in Washington.

President Akufo-Addo noted that a key challenge of Ghana’s economy, like many other economies in Africa, is the infrastructural deficit.

He told the Governors that Ghana is embarking on an aggressive public-private-partnership programme to attract investment in the development of both road and railway infrastructure.

The National Governors Association (NGA) Winter Meeting, which was held between 23rd-26th February 2018 was also addressed by Australian Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull who delivered the meeting’s opening keynote address.

“I am honored to be the first African President to be invited to address the National Governors Association, ” said President Akufo-Addo.

Ghana, as the fastest-growing economy in Africa, looks forward to working with NGA Global to identify investment opportunities and build stronger ties to American states, who are leading the way in a variety of sectors, from agriculture and petroleum to finance and technology.”, the NGA website said, quoting President Akufo-Addo’s response to the honor.

About the NGA

The National Governors Association (NGA) is an organization consisting of the governors of the states, territories and commonwealths of the United States. The NGA’s role is to act as a collective voice for governors on matters of national policy, as well as allowing governors to share best practices and coordinate inter-state initiatives. The organization was founded in 1908 as the National Governors’ Conference. The NGA is considered part of the ‘Big Seven’, a group of organizations that represent local and state government in the United States.

NGA serves as a key public policy liaison between the state governments and the federal government. NGA provides governors and their senior staff members with services that range from representing states on Capitol Hill and at the White House when discussing federal issues to developing policy reports on state programs and hosting networking seminars for state executive branch officials. The NGA Center for Best Practices focuses on state innovations and best practices on issues that range from education and health to technology, welfare reform, and the environment.

Nana Akufo Addo also held private meetings with many Governors including the Governor of Texas, and also Acting CEO of the Millennium Challenge Corporation. The Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), Mr. Jonathan Nash, has expressed his and the appreciation of the MCC to the President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, for his leadership in trying to find a lasting solution to the political impasse in Togo.

President Akufo Addo Addressing the National Governor’s Association

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President Nana Akufo Addo Tours US Cathedral

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President Akufo-Addo Receives Exemplary Leadership Award

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President Akufo-Addo accompanied by some US Governors and other officials

President Akufo-Addo yesterday worshipped at the US National Cathedral in Washington D.C. after touring the facility.

The president, who is attending the US National Governors’ Association meeting in Washington D.C. as special guest, joined the early morning mass at the St Mary’s Chapel of The Cathedral for The Fruit of The Mind.

He was accompanied by some of the US Governors; Ghana’s Ambassador to the US, Dr Adjei Barwuah and Kwabena Darko of Darko Farms fame, among other officials.

President Akufo-Addo, who had conceived the idea of Ghana having a national cathedral and consequently cut the sod to that effect, took the opportunity to tour the US cathedral where he informed his hosts that a similar facility is being built in Ghana.

The president was taking round the facility by The Very Rev Randolph Marshall Hollerith, Dean of the Washington National Cathedral.

He visited the children’s and the veterans’ wings, among other important areas of the facility.

The First Sky Group recently donated GH¢1 million and building materials towards the construction of Ghana’s national cathedral, and this was announced by President AkufoAddo at last year’s 60th independence anniversary celebration.

President Akufo-Addo being presented with a Congressional Record by US Congresswoman Karen Ruth Bass

The President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, was on Friday, 2nd March, 2018, presented with the Exemplary Leadership Award, in recognition of his “courageous and transformative leadership”, “commitment to education” and for his implementation of “people centred policies.”

“May Ghana, under your leadership, be a wonder and an inspiration to the world. May the expectation, as we know it will, of every African man and woman be raised because of your pioneering achievements. May every African child believe that he or she can, because you lifted them up, and paved the way,” the citation read.

President Akufo-Addo received the award at the 15th anniversary gala dinner night of the Whitaker Group, an award which was presented by the CEO of the Group, Rosa Whitaker.

In accepting the award, the President thanked Rosa Whitaker and the Whitaker Group warmly for the honour of the award, indicating that “what our history has taught us is that the spirit of the Ghanaian, in his or her quest for peace, progress and prosperity, cannot be quenched. We are a determined lot, who cannot be deterred.”

With Ghana being recognised as a beacon of democracy and stability on the African continent, President Akufo-Addo noted that the time has now come for in Ghana to move on even further to deepen her democracy.

“We must create wealth and provide happiness to our nation. We can only do this when we have a powerful private sector, with a strong sense of enterprise, innovation and creativity, and an educated and skilled population that is capable of competing in the global marketplace,” the President said.

He continued, “This is why we are insisting on making basic education, i.e. kindergarten through primary school to junior high school to senior high school, free in all our public schools, to guarantee access to quality basic education to all of Ghana’s children, irrespective of the circumstances of their birth. In doing so, we must expand our horizons and embrace science and technology as critical tools for our development.”

President Akufo-Addo told the gathering that “we have to build a confident Ghana which is united, at peace with itself and takes pride in its diversity, and which continues to pursue its historic pan-African vocation. It will not be easy. We have no illusions whatsoever about the nature of the task that we face, but I know that Ghanaians will rise to the occasion; they always do.”

Model of the National Cathedral of Ghana to be built in the capital city of Accra.

He was confident that “the Black Star is going to shine and shine and shine, and we are going to build a Ghana Beyond Aid.” http://presidency.gov.gh

Trivia

He came home from work, tired. He sat down on the sofa and put his feet up. His wife brought him a glass of water. His son gave him a sheet of paper and he read through:English 17%Biology 35%Mathematics 40%Physics 37%Chemistry 42%Economics 12%Agriculture.

19%Religion N/AGeography 22%Suddenly,

he lost his temper and started shouting: "What is this? All the time you are on phone and TV! How dare you bring me such marks?

How dare you?"His wife said: "Be patient. Listen...." But he interjected,"Shut up! It's your love and pampering that has spoilt him.

He is no good and never serious at all!

"His Wife said: "Oh,really?"He shouted: "No one in our family has performed so badly,ever!"The son said: "Dad, I am sorry I made you angry. I was cleaning the old cupboard and I found this. It is your old school report card, dated 27th July, 1980 sir."The man became humbled and dumbfounded. Imagine the atmosphere afterwards. Calmness in the air. With a foolish grin on his face,he replied, "Son,you don't know. Those days food was scarce."

How to conceive a baby boy scientifically

Making sure that the woman gets an orgasm during intercourse speeds up chances of getting a boyA baby boy is usually treasured in the African society more than the girl; this is because the boy gets to inherit the family’s wealth and other important things.Scientifically, it has been proven that a couple can try different ways if they want to conceive a boy. We all know that the Y chromosomes are responsible for conceiving a boy while the X chromosomes for the girl.The X chromosomes usually survive longer than the Y chromosomes and this means that the chances of conceiving a boy are much lesser than those of conceiving a girl. However, there are measures that a couple can take to conceive a boy.First, the woman has to be very keen on her ovulation. Most women can tell when they are ovulating while some cannot; it all depends on the woman’s body.Chances of conceiving a boy when a woman gets intimate right before she starts ovulation are much higher; this means 24 hours before the woman ovulates and 12 hours after ovulation.

This is according to the Shettles Method.Other ways can include having the right sex position during intercourse that is the rear-entry position as recommended by most scientists.Also taking foods that are rich in alkali such as whole fruits and vegetables; this is because such foods favour the Y chromosome and thus, tend to survive much longer and swim faster.Lastly, making sure that the woman gets an orgasm during intercourse because orgasm helps to push the Y sperms much faster and speed up the rate at which the sperms swim.

March 2018

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Intelligence of a drunk

Last night after having a drink too many, Dick left the party quitely and left his car behind because he knew drunk driving was dangerous. He took a taxi.From the party his friends phoned him and ask 'where have you gone?' He replied that having drank a bit too much he left his car behind and took a taxi home.His friends, 'which house did you go? Where are you now, the party was at your home?'

At a wedding ceremony the pastor asked if there was anyone who had any reason why the marriage shouldn't go on; it was time to stand up and speak, or forever let them hold their peace.The moment of utter silence was interrupted by a young beautiful woman carrying a child. She started slowly walking toward the pastor.Everything quickly turned to chaos. The bride slapped the groom. The groom's mother fainted. The bridal trail scooted towards the door.The groom's men huddled together like a bereaved flock, wondering how best to help save the situation.The pastor asked the woman, "Can you tell us why you came forward? What do you have to say?"The woman replied, "I can't hear from the back."

LESSON: Hold judgment until you've had all the facts. However, many times we fire the shots too quickly and beautiful relationships are ruined.

United States Air Force has a high security, super secret base in Nevada, known simply as "Area 51?"

đ&#x;˜ One afternoon, a Cessna landed at this "secret" base. The aircraft was immediately impounded and the pilot was interrogated.The pilot's story was that - he took off from Vegas, got lost & spotted the Base just as he was about to run out of fuel.The Air Force started a full FBI background check on the pilot and held him overnight during the investigation.By the next day, they were finally convinced that the pilot really was lost & wasn't a spy!They refueled his airplane, threatened him that if he lands again he would spend the rest of his life in prison, and let him go!The next day, to the total disbelief of the Air Force personnel, the same Cessna landed there again. Once again, the MP's surrounded the plane... only this time there were two people in the plane.The same pilot jumped out and said:"Do anything you want - to me, but my wife is in the plane and you have to tell her..... where the hell I was last night!

"WIVES....đ&#x;˜?

HOW TO LOCATE YOUR WIFE IN A CROWD WITHOUT WASTING YOUR CREDIT

If you go to a function, and there are many people. suddenly, your wife went to greet her friend, from there you can't locate her again, don't stress yourself calling her, just look for another beautiful lady and start talking to her, before you ask of her name your wife will be standing next to you.....Its another way of saving your phone credit.

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Oppong Weah's Wife Named CAF Ambassador For Women's Football

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has named Liberian First Lady Clar Weah as their ambassador for women's football, making the announcement at the first symposium for African women's football in Morocco.

March 2018

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Nigeria’s Bayode Treasures-Olawunmi Breaks Guinness World Record for “The Longest Reading Marathon”

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Speaking during the closing ceremony in Marrakech on Tuesday, CAF President Ahmad Ahmad announced that Weah, wife of Liberia president George Weah, will have the task of promoting women's football around the globe.

Weah, whose husband was the World Footballer of the Year in 1995, told KweséESPN: "This is unbelievable. I have attended this symposium for two days and now I am to champion the Women's Football cause out there.

"It is a task that I am ready to do because I know the importance of football right from what it did for my husband and now my family."

Agnes Mugena, a member of Uganda FA's executive committee representing women, told the assembled guests: "This has been an eye-opening symposium and it will get back to us who run football in our respective countries to become more proactive and push women's football to another level."

This was echoed by Meskerem Tadesse Goshime from Ethiopia, who said the symposium was a great chance for women's football to get the recognition it has been waiting for: "Everybody involved in women's football in Africa has been waiting for such a gathering.

"We want to raise our game but we cannot do it alone. It is my hope that women's football will from now get the needed support to take a step ahead."

Ahmad said he would ensure that the meeting's talking points did not go to waste: "The various recommendations will be forwarded to the newly established CAF Women's Football Department for review, and then to the CAF Executive Committee for implementation."

Source: ESPN

U.S.'s Timothy Weah, son of George Weah, makes debut for PSG

Paris St-Germain re-established their 14-point advantage at the top of Ligue 1 with victory over strugglers Troyes.

Without the injured duo of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe, both goals came in the second half through Angel di Maria and Christopher Nkunku.

They also gave a debut to Timothy Weah, the son of Liberia president and exPSG and AC Milan striker George Weah.

PSG need 17 points from their remaining 10 games to guarantee their fourth league title in the last five seasons.

George Weah scored 55 goals for PSG between 1992 and 95 before joining AC Milan.

https:/bbcnews,com

Bayode set the new record at exactly 3:30 on Saturday, at the YouRead library, Yaba, Lagos.

The father of three began reading at 1:30 PM on Monday and set the new record of 120 hours over a period of five days.

He beat Nepali Deepak Sharma’s record of 113 hours 15 minutes set in 2008 reading mostly Nigerian literature by Toni Kan , Leye Adele, Sarah Ladipo Manyika and many others.

putting cash on the table, settling the bills and not book reading. I told him to jettison the idea because it made no sense.

“A few days later he came back to me and repeated the same thing and as usual, I called his bluff. But one thing I can tell you is that my husband is so brilliant and focused. Our children have taken after him in this regard. Now, I feel very happy because this is a dream come true and I am glad I finally supported him.”

Sponsors of the event included Guaranty Trust Bank, Tagheuer, Lagos state government ,among others.

“This is the most adventurous thing I have ever done as an individual. It is not easy for an individual to sit down and decide to read for five days almost non-stop. The plan is to create awareness for https://howafrica.com reading and writing culture in Nigeria. I accumulated 20 minutes each day to eat, sleep and have my bath. I don’t even sleep very well but I am glad it is over and I have set a new Guinness World Record,” he told Premium Times.

Bayode, a brand specialist, read aloud for 122 straight hours and only took two hours break every 24 hours.

To ensure that he was in tiptop condition, a Lagos state ambulance was permanently stationed at the library premises while the challenge lasted.

His wife, Tosin, a financial services expert, also told this newspaper that she was taken aback when her husband informed her of his plan to read nonstop for four days.

“I had just returned from work one night when he told me he wanted to read for 120 hours and I just walked past. I told him what mattered most was

Ethiopia Pm Hailemariam Desalegn In Surprise Resignation

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Angola’s New Visa Rule: Citizens From 61 Countries Exempted.

Angola will be granting citizens from 61 countries travelling to the southern African nation visas on arrival, state-owned media confirmed Tuesday.

According to Rádio Nacional de Angola (RNA) the visitors will only need to submit their accommodation and subsistence means to get the tourism visa in Luanda.

Visitors will also be required to have an international certificate of vaccination, a return ticket and a valid passport for the granting of the 30 days visa.

The beneficiary countries include the 28- European Union states and the Portuguese-speaking countries bloc.

Botswana, Mauritius, Namibia, Seychelles, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Singapore will also benefit from the new Angola visa rule.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn has resigned unexpectedly, saying he hoped to end years of unrest and political upheaval.

In a televised address, he said his resignation was "vital in the bid to carry out reforms that would lead to sustainable peace and democracy".

Mr Hailemariam, who has led the country since 2012, also stepped down as chairman of the ruling coalition.

Hundreds of people have died in three years of anti-government protests.

Demonstrations first spread across the country in 2015 amid calls for political and economic reform and an end to state corruption.

What is behind Ethiopia's wave of protests?

Most of the unrest has centred on Ethiopia's two largest regions, Oromia and Amhara.

A 10-month national state of emergency that ended last year failed to stop the protests, as did the release of thousands of opposition supporters from jail last month..

"Unrest and a political crisis have led to the loss of lives and displacement of many," Mr Hailemariam said.

"I see my resignation as vital in the bid to carry out reforms that would lead to sustainable peace and democracy."

Leaders of the governing coalition - the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) - held an emergency meeting following the announcement, the Addis Standard website reported.

Protesters are calling for reforms and an end to government corruption BBC Africa Correspondent Alastair Leithead says Ethiopia's economic growth has been impressive but its steamroller approach to development has sparked years of regional, ethnic-based protest.

The old guard that runs Ethiopia is now afraid its federal, Soviet-style system could collapse, he adds, leaving two possible solutions - to crack down harder on dissent or to try political reform.

Can Ethiopia be Africa's leading manufacturing hub?

Mr Hailemariam said he will stay on as a caretaker prime minister until parliament and the EPRDF accept his resignation and choose a replacement.

Why did Hailemariam resign?

Since coming to power, Mr Hailemariam has been seen by the political elite as weak and lacking in leadership.

His resignation could be a move by the coalition to find a stronger leader, or it could signal divisions among the constituent parties along ethnic lines.

Particularly visible is the tension between the Tigrayan People's Liberation Front, which has seen its dominance and influence wane, and the Oromo People's Democratic Organisation, which is becoming increasingly more assertive.

Replacing Mr Hailemariam might also be one way to meet the demands of Oromo protesters who have accused the authorities of marginalisation.

Getaneh Balcha, of the opposition Blue Party, said Mr Hailemariam's resignation was "great news for Ethiopians".

"This is the beginning. Other officials also need to follow this and transfer the power to the public," he said.

Mr Hailemariam, a trained engineer, took office following the death of Meles Zenawi who had ruled since 1991.

However, while the former deputy prime minister was a close ally of Mr Meles, he struggled to gain approval of the other EPRDF leaders in order to assume his role.

Source: www.bbc.com/

Other beneficiary countries from Africa include Algeria, Madagascar, Malawi, Morocco, Lesotho, Swaziland and Zambia.

The European states of Northern Ireland, Iceland, Monaco, Norway, the UK, Russia, Switzerland and Vatican City will also benefit from the new Luanda visa rule American beneficiaries of the visa simplification process are Argentina, Canada, Chile, Cuba, the US, Uruguay and Venezuela.

The Asian beneficiaries are China, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates, India, Indonesia, Israel and Japan.

The nationals of Australia, New Zealand and Timor-Leste will also be granted the Angolan visa on arrival.

The presidential decree will come into force from March 30, the RNA added.

An invitation letter, which will no longer be a condition for visa application, was affecting the tourism industry stopping many tourists wishing to visit Angola.

The Angolan government says that the tourism sector will create one million jobs by 2020.

Angola’s tourism industry is relatively young and mainly private majorly because the country was destroyed during the post-colonial civil war, which ended in 2002.

The development and expansion of the tourism industry is set to diversify the country’s economy.

Source:allafrica.com

Italy Elects First Black Senator In History, For AntiImmigration Lega Party

Italy has elected its first ever black senator, a Nigerian immigrant who is a member of the anti-immigration Lega (League) party.

Toni Iwobi announced “with great emotion” he had been elected in Brescia, Lombardy, to the upper house of the country’s parliament.

The far-right League became the second-largest party in parliament in Italy’s general election.

In a Facebook post, Mr Iwobi said: “After more than 25 years of battles as part of the League’s great family, I am about to start another great adventure!”

Toni ChiKe Iwobi, also known as Tony Chike Iwobi, (born 26 April 1955) is an Italian politician for Lega Nord who was elected to the Italian Senate in the 2018 general election.

Born in the city of Gusau in northern Nigeria, he was one of 11 siblings in a Roman Catholic family[4] and attended Catholic schools. His mother tongue is English.

He completed a degree in economics with specialization in marketing and business management in Manchester, UK. He came to Italy on a student visa in 1976, and obtained a degree in accounting in Treviglio. He also has higher degrees (laurea) in computer science from USA and Italy.

Iwobi is the founder and since 2001 managing director of Data Communication Labs Ltd. Previously he worked for AMSA (Azienda Milanese Servizi Ambientali) and has worked for a company in Roveredo, Switzerland.

A supporter of federalism, which he knew from Nigeria, he became a member of Lega Nord, where he was particulary inspired by Gianfranco Miglio.[6] In 1993, he was elected municipal councillor for the party in Spirano, a position he held until 2014. From 2010 to 2014 he also served as assessor with responsibility for social services.

Iwobi was in 2014 selected by party leader Matteo Salvini to draft Lega Nord's new immigration policy which had a hard stance against illegal immigration and played a big role in the party's campaign in the Italian general election, 2018.

In the 2018 general election he was elected to the Italian Senate, becoming the first black person to take seat in the Senate.

He is married to an Italian woman and has two children.

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Nigerian Judge, Eboe-Osuji, becomes President of International Criminal Court

ICC President Judge Chile Eboe-Osuji, The judges of the International Criminal Court, sitting in a plenary session, elected Nigerian Judge Chile Eboe-Osuji as President of the Court for a three-year term with immediate effect.

The election took place on Sunday, March 11, 2018, according to the information made available on the ICC website.

Judge Robert Fremr (Czech Republic) was elected First Vice-President and Judge Marc Perrin de Brichambaut (France) Second Vice-President.

In his acceptance speech, Eboe-Osuji said, “I am deeply honoured to have been elected by my peers as President of the International Criminal Court.

“As I take up my duties, I feel encouraged that I am able to rely on the wide experience of the two Vice-Presidents, Judge Robert Fremr and Judge Marc Perrin de Brichambaut, both of whom I have closely worked with previously.

“I look forward to working together with them as well as with all the judges, all the officials and the staff of the Court in a spirit of collegiality.

“I also look forward to collaborating with the Assembly of States Parties, civil society and the international community at large, acting together to strengthen and reinforce the Rome Statute system, the 20th anniversary of the adoption of which we celebrate this year.”

“I am also grateful to the previous President, Judge Silvia Fernández de Gurmendi, and VicePresidents, Judges Joyce Aluoch and Kuniko Ozaki, for their work and leadership,” he added.

The Presidency – consisting of the President and the two Vice-Presidents – plays a key role in providing strategic leadership to the ICC as a whole.

The Presidency coordinates with the other organs and seeks the concurrence of the Prosecutor on matters of mutual concern.

In accordance with the Rome Statute, the ICC’s

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governing treaty, the Presidency is responsible for the proper administration of the Court, with the exception of the Office of the Prosecutor.

The Presidency oversees the activities of the Registry and provides input into a broad range of administrative policies affecting the Court’s overall functioning.

Furthermore it conducts judicial review of certain decisions of the Registrar and concludes Court-wide cooperation agreements with States and international organizations.

According to Wikipedia entry on him, Chile EboeOsuji was born in 1962 and he had served as a judge of the International Criminal Court, The Hague, having been elected on December 16, 2011 and sworn in on March 9, 2012.

He was also said to have served as a Legal Advisor to the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.

Eboe-Osuji was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1986 and practised briefly in the country.

After obtaining his master of laws degree from McGill in 1991, he worked as a barrister in Canada, having been called to the Bar in Ontario and in British Columbia in 1993.

From 1997 to 2005, Eboe-Osuji worked at the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda as prosecution counsel and senior legal officer to the judges of the tribunal.

From 2005 to 2007, he worked in Canada as a barrister and law lecturer.

Working for the Special Court for Sierra Leone as senior prosecution appeals counsel in 2007/08 and returning to the ICTR from 2008 to 2010 as Head of Chambers, he became the Legal Advisor to the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay in 2010, and held a cross-appointment as the principal prosecution appeals counsel at the Special Court for Sierra Leone, in the case of Charles Taylor, the former President of Liberia.

He has authored two books and numerous law journal articles in international law.

(ICC website/Wikipedia)

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Dr. Joseph Baah-Dwomoh, Former World Bank Officer Dies in Ghana

March 2018

President and Chairman of GN, Dr Papa Kwesi Nduom, made this known while speaking at Ghana’s 61st Independence Anniversary Dinner in Washington DC, USA, at the weekend.

He attended Adisadel College in Cape Coast for secondary school, then earned his Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Economics from the University of Ghana, Legon. Afterwards, he earned his Master of Science (MS) in Economics and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Economics from the University of Western Ontario, Canada. Dr. Joseph Baah-Dwomoh had a successful career at the World Bank. He ascended from an economist based in Washington, DC, USA and Abidjan, Côte D’Ivoire to a Sector Manager responsible for environmental, social, rural and agricultural development programs in West, Central, and Eastern Africa.

He advanced his career to become the Country Manager of Benin and Togo, where he was responsible for all World Bank Country Programs and staff of these countries. While very accomplished in his career, he always made family his number one priority. He served as a mentor not only to his children, but also to other family members and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Georgina Baah-Dwomoh, and his children Mr. & Mrs. Kwabena Baah-Dwomoh, Ms. Akosua Baah-Dwomoh, and Ms. Adwoa Baah-Dwomoh, and his grandchild Ms. Ari BaahDwomoh.

The anniversary dinner was organised by the Council of Ghanaian Associations (COGA) of the Washington Metro Area. According to Dr Nduom, “by the end of this month [March 2018], we [GN] will open a Groupe Nduom Liaison Office in this Metro Area, specifically 5509 Vine Street, Alexandria.”

The move, he explained, will, among other things, help promote products and services offered by GN in West Africa. Dr Nduom recounted how his group, in April 2016, acquired what he described as a “small bank on the South side of Chicago called ISF Bank.”

“We are about to introduce a product, PayGlobal, in partnership with ISF Bank, so that you can open an account with the bank and feed your PayGlobal Digital wallet with funds.”

This, Dr. Nduom said, will make it possible for Ghanaians in Washington DC to send money directly to Ghana from an ISF bank account using the PayGlobal app.

He went on to give the assurance that this will happen before June this year, adding that “When you patronise PayGlobal, you will help Ghana earn foreign currency because we will use it to support local businesses in Ghana.”

His one week remembrance was held on March 10, 2018 at his Fairfax residence in Virginia

He said Groupe Nduom celebrates merit, explaining that it is because of this that “we chose “Beyond Excellence” as our slogan.”

May He rest in Peace

Groupe Nduom he disclosed, was started in the USA in the 1980s, and now actively operates in all the ten regions of Ghana.

Funeral arrangements would be announced later

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Groupe Nduom To Open A Liaison Office In Washington DC

Groupe Nduom, a multinational company, has announced plans to open a Groupe Nduom (GN) Liaison (not sales) Office in Washington DC, United States of America.

Dr. Joseph Baah-Dwomoh passed away unexpectedly on February 27, 2018 in Accra, Ghana. He was born on March 4, 1949 in Adidwan, a village in the Asante region of Ghana.

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He gave a brief history of how Groupe Nduom started.

He added that the company employs over 6,000 people in Ghana.

“We now operate across West Africa, in the UK and in the USA. We have learnt that we cannot be like anyone else in Ghana. Indeed, we cannot blend in and become one with our sometimes dysfunctional Ghanaian environment. We must go beyond excellence, be different, to remain competitive,” Dr Nduom said.

Dr Nduom donated an undisclosed amount of money on behalf of Groupe Nduom to support a fund raising

by COGA towards a health and education project in Ghana.

He also seized the opportunity to inform members of COGA, Washington DC, that Groupe Nduom has a Foundation, which gives scholarships every year to ten boys and ten girls, sponsoring them from high school to any university of their choice in Ghana.

Dr Nduom advised Ghanaians in the USA against being tempted to fall into the “partisan politics trap.” In his view one cannot be a successful business person or professional in America “if your claim to your position is that you belong to a certain political party.”

He lamented that Ghana was suffering today in part “because many want the easy political solution to solve problems that confront them.”

“We all know the situation in Ghana 61 years after independence. Unreliable health care, very high unemployment, poor sanitation, underdeveloped infrastructure among many other problems create conditions for a low quality of life for most of our people,” Dr Nduom bemoaned.

He, therefore, urged Ghanaians to move beyond partisan politics and unite as one people to find solutions desperately needed back home.

He commended COGA executives and members for keeping Ghanaian customs and culture alive in the Washington Metropolitan area Source: Peacefmonline.com

Afrikan

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March 2018

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Ghanaian Opens New Radio Station To Serves Immigrants

“LPFM stations are available to noncommercial educational entities and public safety and transportation organizations, but are not available to individuals or for commercial operations,” the FCC website states.

A radio station aimed at the African immigrant population in central Ohio is now on the air. The lowpower FM radio service WCRM (102.1) currently is broadcasting test transmissions from a new antenna on top of the Northland Professional Building, 1495 Morse Road, said Ernest M. Opuni, a native of Ghana whose Pri-Value Foundation obtained the license for the station.

Opuni, who has lived in the United States for 15 years, has been in insurance and financial services for the past decade.

He started the nonprofit foundation as a separate entity in order to focus on social needs. One of those needs, he said, is to improve communication among the immigrant populations in central Ohio, and he sees WCRM-LP as an ideal means of doing that. “We realized there was a huge gap in the transfer of information from the city level and the state to our community,” he said.

“We want to use this as a platform to communicate and also to educate our community on where these resources are and how to access them.”

“It just feels good to hear yourself reflected on the radio in America,” said Michael Ndaribamare, who is on the board of WCRM-LP. Ndaribamare is a Northland resident who was born in the United States to parents who came here from Burundi.

He volunteered at the former licenseholder, the Neighborhood Network, doing a weekly show featuring African music for about eight years.

Ndaribamare said he approached Opuni about obtaining the license of the Neighborhood Network, which is how the new station came about. “I think it’ll be great,” Ndaribamare said. “There are a lot of Africans here. Our tower where we’ll be broadcasting from is off Morse and Karl roads where there’s a huge African population.

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“The creation of the low-power FM radio service stands as one of the greatest successes in recent efforts for grassroots media reform,” according to the Prometheus Radio Project, a Philadelphiabased nonprofit organization.

“As a result, hundreds of new low-power community stations are broadcasting that otherwise would not be, operated by civil-rights groups, schools, farm-worker organizations, environmen- WARREN, Ohio (AP) — A garishly appointed Ohio mansion that talists, cultural organizations and others.” heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson once called home and subsequently fell into disrepair is being converted into a house of worship.

“Initially, when we got the license, we were so excited that we put the word out in the communi- The Living Word Sanctuary Church has been cleaning up the property ty,” Opuni said. in Trumbull County’s Southington Township, roughly 45 miles (72 kilometers) southeast of Cleveland, since the 25,000-square-foot (2,323-sq. meter) mansion was donated to the church several years ago.

“People could not wait for us to get started.”

Paperwork involved with the license transfer “The property had been untouched for 10 years,” Living Word Pastor delayed the testing phase for WCRM-LP until early December, Opuni said. “Our reach has been Nicholas DeJacimo told the Warren Tribune-Chronicle . “You had so much grass you could have sold it for hay. very, very unbelievable,” he said.

“We have had people from Pataskala call us.” “In my head, I hope this might give some kids, mostly African kids in Columbus, a chance to do their own radio shows,” Ndaribamare said.

The mansion is a considerable step up; the church has been holding services at a YMCA. The sanctuary the church hopes to have ready by year’s end is an area where Tyson and his guests splashed in an indoor pool. A four-bay garage is being turned into youth classrooms and a nursery. Tall steel cages where Tyson kept four tigers have been dismantled for a pavilion.

“If they want to go into journalism, it gives them a community to come in and be accepted. If The second-floor master suite featured mirror-covered walls and ceilyou’re the kid of an immigrant, sometimes it’s not ing, a whirlpool spa and two bathrooms. that easy to have internships and things like that.”

“We heard there were some crazy parties here,” DeJacimo said. “We Opuni is recruiting people to serve on the stawill turn this into a room where women can get ready for a wedding.” tion’s community advisory board and help shape the programming when WCRM-LP goes into full Church offices and meeting rooms are being built on the second floor. operation, perhaps by April. Those interested in It’s unclear which of the mansion’s design features can be attributed to being on the panel may contact him at Tyson or the previous owner. It was built in 1979. Tyson bought it at ernest@tvan.tv. sheriff’s sale in 1989 for $300,000 and sold it 10 years later for $1.3 million to Paul Monea, an infomercial entrepreneur best known for “The joy for me personally is being able to promarketing Tae-Bo exercise videos. vide a service which seemed so out of reach to our communities,” Opuni said. “It’s an accomplishment for our community. It’s high time for us Monea was sentenced to 13 years in federal prison in 2007 for money laundering charges. The mansion was bought at sheriff’s sale in 2010 to have something like this.” for $600,000 and then donated to the church for a tax write-off. The church’s up-front investment was $50,000 to clear back taxes.

“It gives people a voice and an outlet.” That’s exactly kparks@thisweeknews.com the purpose of a low-power FM radio service, accord@KevinParksTW1 ing to the Federal Communications Commission.

The licenses for such stations, which are supposed to have a broadcast range of between three and five miles, were created by the FCC in January 2000.

Mike Tyson’s Ohio Mansion Will Become A Church M a r c h 2018

Tyson returned to the mansion in 1995 after serving time in Indiana for rape and lived there while training at promoter Don King’s camp in nearby Orwell, according to the newspaper. Tyson befriended neighbors during training runs and played basketball with kids on his court.

People stop hoping for a look inside Tyson’s former home, DeJacimo said. He said the mansion “got dropped in our lap.”

“I tell everyone, ‘This was meant for us.'” https://blackamericaweb.com

Afrikan

March 2018

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South African Embassy Hosts “Love is the Common Thread” Gala

The Love Quilt Project is a non-profit organization that uses the power of love to change the lives of vulnerable orphaned South African children, many of them affected by the HIV / AIDS pandemic.

The Love Quilt Project builds relationships between caring Americans and children in South Africa. American school children create messages of love to brighten lives and help heal souls of those touched by the HIV / AIDS pandemic. These beautiful art squares are stitched together by volunteer quilters into quilts that are distributed to children in South Africa’s hardest hit communities.

The Love Quilt Project teaches kindness, tolerance and compassion. Donations help enrich lives through educational opportunities. And all who participate learn that the healing power of love can change the world.

The Love Quilt Project began in 2011 when a group of parishioners from St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Arlington, Virginia traveled to South Africa to see the completion of a foster home for AIDS orphans. As gifts for the children, quilts were created and sewn. In each quilt were messages of love from the church’s Sunday School classes. “The recipients were thrilled by these gifts and their powerful messages of love,” recalls Gretchen Ginnerty, President of the Love Quilt Project. “Our partners in South Africa encouraged us to find a way to continue this mission and The Love Quilt Project was born.” A team of volunteers recruited quilters from around the US and artwork created by children from scout troops, schools and community organizations was sewn into the quilts. Six years later, hundreds of quilts with their fabric art squares have been given to AIDS orphans in South Africa, wrapping the recipients in love. The project continues to teach American school children the power of love to heal while helping raise money to support South African children’s educations.

Gretchen Ginnerty founder of The Love Quilt Project

Deborah G. Droke Director, sales development for the Mid-Atlantic region ,South African Airways, Gretchen Ginnerty. founder of The Love Quilt Project and the MC (Center)

It was wonderful to have a Ghana connection represented!

George Kwasi Bright & Oral Ofori at The Embassy of the Republic of South Africa in the United States.

(http://www.lovequiltproject.org)

The first annual “Love is the Common Thread” Gala held on Thursday, February 22nd, 2018 at the South African Embassy In Washington DC was a big success!

Barry Darr Dixon, Deborah Guariglia Droke and actor Patrick Wilson (A Lydia Russo moment) at The Love is the Common Thread Gala

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H.E Mninwa Johannes Mahlangu, the current Ambassador of the Republic of South Africa to the United States of America

Afrikan

March 2018

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Ghana@61 Independence Day Celebration in Washington DC

King Peggy Taking Some traditional SDancing Steps

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Mrs. Dinah Agyei Bawuah Joins Benita Biney in a Cultural Adowa Dance

Embassy Chef-Francis Otoo

Cultural Performance By Performing Arts Center for African Cultures, Inc., (PACAC)

Okyeman Association

Council Of Ghanaian Associations in Baltimore and Harford County

Afrikan

March 2018

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Ghana@61 Independence Day Celebration in Washington DC

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H.E Ambassador Barfour Adjei Bawuah and Wife

H.E Ambassador Donald Yukio Yamamoto - Acting Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs

Diplomats and Special Guests

New Patriotic Party (NPP) Members with the Ambassador

Council Of Ghanaian Associations (COGA) Leaders in a chat with Mr. Eric Boateng -Head of Chancery

Military Attache’s from Algeria, Kenya, Mali, Nigeria,Ghana, Tanzania and Uganda

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