Benjamin Oyemola | Africa's Young IT Guru | Th New African Magazine

FROM PUBLISHER’S DESK

The youths are the backbone of every society. They are the present strength and future hope of every nation. Hence, no nation can make any appreciable progress without the inclusion of her youths in its decision making.

Other continents understand this and are using it to their advantage; but Africa seems to be sleeping on it. Unlike youths from other continents, African youths are still relegated to the background during decision making by their governments This leads to the enacting of laws alien and counterproductive to the African youths. And unless this ugly trend is checked, development will keep eluding Africa. It’s high time African youths are given the chance to shape their future; while the parentsplaytheadvisoryrole.

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Welcome to the December edition of theNewAfricanMagazine!

In collating all the editions throughout the year, 'NAM' has been inspired by the talents and accomplishments of all our awardees and nominees.

The idea was birthed and set to nominate and publish the names of winners for each edition, which would showcase young Africans who have attained excellence in their various fields. The New Africa Magazine is also using this opportunity to make a clarion call to all African young celebrities, High achievers, innovators in technology, Policy makers, Business, Academia,

media, and the Arts to continue to work hard to excel in their given field and to set a benchmark for futureAfricanyoungachievers.

To give a little background of this journey, it would be appropriate to bring to the attention of our readers what we hope to achieve in the new Africa.

Ours is to create the utmost awareness of what Africa must thrive to become by showing what, who and which Africans have worked hard to achieve greatness even in the current climate and economic disadvantage. Statistics show that as of 2019 before the pandemic, Africa had the youngest population in the world with 200 million people from the ages of 15 to 24 years old, all of whom were not in full-time education, or employment or areself-employed.

Further research by the world bank showed that 60% of these young people were all unemployed on the continent, with young women bearing the greater burden of the stings of unemployment, as young men were favoured for jobs. However, instead of resigning themselves to these limiting considerations and roadblocks, many African youths both in Africa and the diaspora have jumped on the entrepreneurial train, surpassing many challenges that would otherwise have left them financially, mentally, and emotionally discouraged.

While these statistics have not been encouraging, the number of youths post-pandemic facing the same fate leaves a lot to be desired. However, in the face of hardship owing to poor governance in today's Africa leading to a catalogue of limitations and unfavorable circumstances, these young Africans have stamped their footprints on the concrete pavement and have their fingers on the pulseoftheyoung'Achieverstrail'.

To echo the words in our November edition, The New Africa Magazine sure believes in the culture of recognition of all people who have and continue to shape the progressive vision of the African continent.

Happy reading and COMPLIMENTS OF THE SEASON!!!

Senior Editor

LEADERSHIP AND GOVERNANCE IN AFRICA:

A Clarion Call to the Youths

Youths are the epicentre of all developmental strides in contemporary society Since they make up a significant portion of society, they have a central and conspicuous role in supporting society's progress and galvanising its s u s t a i n a b l e d e v e l o p m e n t a l advancement.

Youth is responsible for building the nation, transforming society, and making it fair and noble. Youth can improve the community and culture of society and ring new impetus in leadership. This youth has the urge, innovations, and dynamism to participate actively and meaningfully in politics and advocate for good g o v e r n a n c e . T h e y h a v e t h e c o m p e t e n c e o f b e c o m i n g

entrepreneurs and can fully exploit every developmental avenue that has not been tapped to build an utopic society. Therefore, there is an urgent need for this youth to be selflessly n u r t u r e d t o c h a m p i o n g o o d governance initiatives and emerge as leaders and take their destinies into their own hands, starting from local to regionallevelsandthecountry.

The African Youth Charter recognizes youth as individuals within the age range of 15 to 35. In that perspective, Africa has the youngest population in the world. The continent has a population of 1.25 billion inhabitants, and 60% are under 25 years old. Paradoxically, this young, vibrant, ambitious, talented, and educated

m a j o r i t y o f t h e A f r i c a n population is not represented in government. This ultimate disengagement between policymakers and youth aggravates glitches and drives African society, in general, to digress and feel trenchantlyarchaic.

The calls and surges for change from youth in Africa have wantonly and mostly b e e n d i s r e g a r d e d Policymakers mockingly pay lip service to the concern but hardly do anything to put it to p r a c t i c e T h e r e i s n o awareness of youth inclusion i n t h e e l e c t o r a l o r administrative process and offensively refers to the vibrant youthas“leadersoftomorrow".

Senior leadership often views the youth's aspirations as c u l t u r a l i n v a s i o n a n d imperialist influence aimed at d e s t a b i l i s a t i o n o f t h e 'functional' institutions and thus nothing to be taken seriously.

Ironically, colonial powers granted independence to African countries and ushered in pulsating youth to the mantle of leadership Sadly today, leadership circulates in the hands of the old whose v i b r a n c y a n d s u r g e f o r sustainable development h a v e b u r n t o u t , a n d yesterday's approaches to modernization have become the order of the day. They cling to power with an old-fashion adage that age is wisdom Therefore, this leaves African countries with institutions that

cannot take any meaningful a c t i o n s t o a d d r e s s contemporary issues most relevant to young people and the changing world. This youth –w h o i s n o t r e p r e s e n t e d adequately in formal political institutions and processes such as parliaments, political parties, e l e c t i o n s , a n d p u b l i c a d m i n i s t r a t i o n s – i s t h e heartbeat of every country. The situation is even more difficult for both young women and women at mid-level and decisionmaking or leadership positions. Suppose African governments passed on the mantle of power to the youth. In that case, they c o u l d h a v e t r e m e n d o u s potential to positively affect change and economic growth, p e a c e , a n d s u s t a i n a b l e development.

Before looking at “how youth can take the mantle of leadership in Africa,” it is important to draw lessons from crucial youth leaders who changed their p e e r s ' m i n d s e t s b y t h e i r engagements in re-establishing goodgovernance.

Patrice Lumumba, the first Prime Minister of the Democratic R e p u b l i c o f t h e C o n g o , articulated egalitarianism, social justice, liberty, human rights, and the fight against colonial legacy. He served as an eye-opener for the Congolese, and now for all Africans The youngrevolutionaryleader,

Thomas Sankara – who later became president of Burkina Faso – fought for participatory democracy, justice, antic o r r u p t i o n , a n d A f r i c a ' s

liberation. He believed in the ability of Burkinabés to develop their country, modernize it, and build a resilient and robust economy.

The Rwanda Patriotic Front – led by Paul Kagame, the current President of Rwanda – fought to stop the genocide and liberate the country. Kagame fought against the genocidal ideology and tribalism by creating one national identity and, today, he is known for his strong support of theunityofAfrica.

Youths are the most vital human capital of any economy. Not only are they responsive, adaptable, proactive, and receptive, but the contemporary youth also understand employment and the revolutionary technological advancement of the 21stcentury era. They are tuned in to the gig economy's opportunities, constantly aware of, and ready to seize upon, the newest and latest developments. Examples c a n b e d r a w n f r o m t h e unprecedented coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic that awoken the sleeping scientific and technological giant in the African youth and how they are using it to fight the pandemic and adapt the economy to the presentpredicaments.

Simultaneously, the older leaders in power on the West for salvation have always been the case – the West that is not being spelledbythepandemic.

In conflict-prone countries or countries emerging from c o n fl i c t s , U n i t e d N a t i o n s Development Programme

(UNDP) recognizes that young people can participate in peacebuilding, leading nonviolent revolutions, using new technologies to mobilize societies to bring about positive transformationinAfrica.

Youth have demonstrated the ability to build bridges across communities, work synergy, manage conflict, and promote peace and sustainable development. Youths are energetic and indispensable stakeholders in conflict and peacebuilding and can be agents of change and provide a basis for rebuilding lives and communities, contributing to a more just and peaceful society.

They stand a better chance a n d c a n m u s t e r t h e momentum to undertake and harness green recovery strategies concerning the overarching 'Build Back Better' (BBB) plan They traverse them with other p r o m i n e n t a g e n d a s , including SDG16/SDG13, and identify relevant entry points f o r p e a c e b u i l d i n g programming and policy d e v e l o p m e n t –developmental initiatives alien to the old-school politicians.

C h a n c e s f o r y o u t h t o participate in governance and involvement in political and decisionmaking processes largely enhance better political, socioeconomic, and cultural contexts where social norms in many parts ofAfricawillbeimproved.

This will result in participatory democratic governance, social cohesion, justice, a human rights conflict-free Africa, and sustainabledevelopment.

To address these challenges to governance and youth participation and consequently taking the mantle of leadership, young people should be at the forefront in creating awareness in their peers and building public opinion on the values and principles to adopt. With the state and non-state actors' help, they should conduct civic education; provide health care services, shelter, access to education, and food. It is only through such engagements that youth participation and taking the baton of leadership can be effective The time has come for African youth to change from being abused and disillusioned to being the drivers of social cohesion, human rights, justice, and sustainableeconomicdevelopment.

A clarion call to all emerging African leaders is that leadership is taken, not given This is the time for youth to take their destiny into their own very hands

A f r i c a n y o u t h a r e passionate and resourceful, but they need more space to u n c o v e r t h e i r innovativeness, provide solutions, work, and build an atmosphere that fits all. They also need more space to prepare future generations t o f a c e t h e s a m e insecurities, imbalances, and corruption we see today. They should stay focused on building on their predecessors' strengths and participate in endowing in and sustaining their communities. If one can learn to hate and destroy, then one can easily learn to love and safeguard Having active youth participation in governance and leadership requires civic education to install moral tenetstohelpthemoutofamorality.

ThePersonalityTraitsofa Sagittarius

November 22 - December 21

The final fire sign of the zodiac, Sagittarius traits are unlike any other sign of the zodiac; they'retotallyuniquetothisbrazenspirit.

What makes Sagittarius so unique is its dynamic blend of passion, curiosity, intensity, and adaptability. Represented by the archer (a halfman, half-horse centaur), Sagittarius isn't afraid to use its bow and arrow to explore expansive terrain, seeking answers in places and spaces others wouldn't dare venture. Whether they're white water rafting down a river in some undisclosed location or taking a pilgrimage to a sacred site to uncover secrets about an ancient civilization, Sagittarius' quest for knowledge knowsnobounds.

Sagittarius is a mutable sign, meaning it is associated with adaptability and flexibility. This perfectly reflects the archers' deep-rooted desire for change. Sagittarians are born to explore and it is critical that these archers have the freedom to roam (Sagittarius rules the thighs, so these archersarealwaysonthemove.)

Fueled by wanderlust, these archers can be found traversing all corners of the world on thrill-

seeking expeditions, chasing after geographical, intellectual, and spiritual adventures Sagittarians are on a perpetual quest for knowledge, which makes them incredible storytellers, entertainers, and creatives. It's not all funandgames.

However, Sagittarius is notorious for its signature bluntness, and their "brutal honesty" can often lead to misunderstandings, communication breakdowns, and lots of hurt feelings. But the good news? Sagittarius doesn't take anything too seriously, so it's hard to stay mad at these wild optimists.

Sagittarius' ruling planet is Jupiter, the planet of abundance. You know the expression "go big or go home?" Yeah, that's basically Jupiter's motto. Jupiter is all about excess — it expands anything it touches. So, naturally, this sign demands to have itall.

The word "enough" doesn't exist within this sign's vocabulary When Sagittarius is intrigued by something — whether it's a Wikipedia blackhole or a newfound internet crush — they go all in. That is, until something else catches their eye. As a

mutable sign, Sagittarius don't stay on any single fascination for too long; these archers have so many passions and interests, they're constantly bouncing from one idea to the next! What's more, since 2020, the solar and lunar eclipses have been activating the Gemini-Sagittarius axis, so there's been tons of movement and transformation for this fiery sign.

Celebrity Sagittarius like Miley Cyrus, Nicki Minaj, Britney Spears, and Jay-Z are all known fortheirlarger-than-lifespirits.

Sags are captivating characters who can light up any room with their exhilarating tales, infectiouslaughter,anddynamiccharm.

Effortlessly magnetic, they easily attract friends and lovers with their innate humor. Sagittarius are definitely the comedians of the zodiac, who infuse all of their conversations with their signature "no bullshit" attitude. They're fun, playful, and extremely philosophical. They seamlessly weave stories, fusing topics ranging from quantum physics to 18th-century literature to modern-day celebrity pop culture Why? Sagittarius is interested in absolutely everything. Their spirit is fueled by their passion for knowledge, so they relish the opportunity to become experts in…well,anything.

Of course, Sagittarians must remember to keep their sharp tongues in check. Though they know a lot, they don't know everything — and if they're not careful, they can come off as pretentiousorarrogant.

Sagittarius has no filter (like, actually, it doesn't exist), which is what makes this fire sign so incredibly funny, intelligent, and dynamic,Sagittarian' but is also why they can end up scorching even their closest friends andfamilyonabadday.

What's more, because of Sagittarius' insatiable wanderlust, it's hard for this sign to commit. Consistency is a challenge for these fiery archers, and — although it doesn't come from an ill-intentioned place — other zodiac signs may perceive Sagittarius as flakey and

unreliable.

To mitigate this, Sagittarius should make sure they don't over-promise, which will inevitably lead to under-delivering. Instead, Sagittarius should make sure they're being extremely transparent about their existing responsibilities so that others can manage theirexpectationsaccordingly.

WhoshouldSagittariusavoid?

Sagittarius can get along with any zodiac sign so long as the other person gives them the space to roam. Whether they're meandering through philosophical conversations or backpacking across distant terrain, Sagittarians are fueled by freedom. Of course, not all signs can tolerate Sagittarians' thrill-seeking spirit. Sagittarius's unpredictable nature may make grounded Earth signs—Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn — a bit uneasy. Similarly, the emotional water signs — Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces — might take Sagittarius's blunt commentary a bit too personally, resulting in lots of hurt feelings. Although Sagittarius can work with any zodiac sign, it must be extra careful with friends and lovers who coulduseabitmoreempathy.

Who'sthebestmatchforSagittarius?

Romantically, Sagittarians are seeing a copilot: These adventurous lovers resent any boundaries, so constant motion is essential in any Sag relationship. If you are lucky enough to link up with one of these archers, be sure to buckle up and have your passport ready. Fellow fire signs — Aries and Leo — are attracted to Sagittarius' humor, wit, and fiery passion, so Sagittarius will often ignite connections with these dynamic sparky plugs. The air signs — Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius also fan Sagittarius' flame: The air signs are intellectual, social, and curious, so they find Sagittarius' adventurous nature to be extremely attractive. When teaming up with this vivacious sign, be sure to buckle up. It's alwaysawildride.

10 Most Popular African Foods

Africa is a continent possessing numerous attractions. Visitors and holiday makers are often drawn to the many positive features on the continent including a friendly and energetic people, an inviting climate as well as natural wonders among others. As a result of these factors, Africa continues to remain a top tourist destination formillionseveryyear.

Perhaps the most compelling narrative revolves around what her people eat. African cuisine is diverse, delicious and if you desire, decadent. You are spoiled, not only for choice; tasting the sumptuous dishes also open your eyes to the gateways of the very cultural essence of the tribes/racesonthecontinent.

The typical African meal comes from paying considerable attention to detail; you will find that those cooks employ a rich array of base ingredients, spices as well as other condiments to create culinary paradise. From the desert lands in North Africa to the lush greens of the West and the Sahel plains of the East, every region serves a delicacy that will surpass your minimum expectations. Without furtherado,herearetenmostpopularAfricanfoods:

JollofRice(WestAfrica)

Jollof rice is a meal prepared and enjoyed across the West African sub-region. However, a fierce rivalry exists among Nigerians, Senegalese and Ghanaians as to who makes the dish best, with the latter laying claim to owning the most delicious variety. At its most basic form, Jollof is a pot of rice prepared with tomato sauce and served with meat or fish. Chicken is another common accompaniment to Jollof. Feast your eyes and later, your taste buds, as you watch the rice soak up the prepared sauces and turn orangecolourasitreachesreadiness.

Koki Bean Cake

(Cameroon)

If you happen to find yourself in Central Africa, specifically Cameroon, then do not let this delightful appetizer pass you by. Ask for it, seek it and eat it!

With cowpeas as its primary constituent, Koki rises when the peas are mashed, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. Koki derives its characteristic bright red color and flavor from red palm oil (or palm nut sauce) as well as other condiments such as crayfish, pieces of fish and chili peppers.

Chicken Muamba (Angola, Southern Africa)

In Luanda, do as the Angolans do. That is eating this spicy, oily brew consisting of palm oil or palm butter, garlic, chilis, and okra. Note that chicken Muamba itself comes marinated with spices, which gives it a unique and electrifying taste. Explore your options by having Chicken Muamba with traditional African starchy porridges such as funge, fufu, and igali.

Alloco (Ivory Coast)

If you find yourself on vacation in West Africa, do stop by this beautiful nation to savor a meal for all time: the irresistible Alloco. Often considered a snack, Alloco consists of Ivorian fried plantain served with chili pepper, onions or egg and tasty tomato sauce. Famed for its unique taste and ease of preparation, you will not have to keep the wolves in your tummy at bay for too long as a result.

Couscous Royale

(Tunisia, North Africa)

Couscous is a staple dish, enjoyed across the vast North African landscape. It consists of steamed semolina. If you want this meal taken up as top notch, request for Couscous Royale, with infusions of lamb cuttings. At other times, ask for specially spiced chicken as an accompaniment. Saffron is also added to give you a memorable eatingexperience.

Chicken Kebabs (Egypt)

This North African food is a favorite in Cairo and across Egypt Before giving your tongue an unforgettable treat, watch as dexterous chefs turn boneless chicken breasts into mouth-watering kebabs, complete and spiced with cardamom, black pepper as well as other ingredients that you should discover yourself. As it is said, the taste of the pudding is in theeating!

Egusi (MelonSoupSeed Stew) with Fufu (Nigeria)

Are you in Nigeria? Specifically, in the Eastern part of the country? Then you will do well to try the spectacular Egusi soup with spinach leaves. Comprising an assortment of meats, fish, spices, oils and other condiments, Egusi soup serves well with rice, potatoes, pounded yam, or wellmade fufu balls There has to be a deliberateness when eating this soup, to fully imbibe all the inherent goodness availableinaservingofthismeal.

Pap en Vleis/Shisa Nyama

(South Africa)

This food is regarded as an institution, not only in South Africa but across the length and breadth of the region. Get ready for a culinary adventure of a lifetime when you come in contact with maize porridge and meat. This is an umbrella meal covering exciting stewed beef or braaied and starch, which feature alongside compulsory accompaniments like chakalaka or spicy gravy.

Then you should also not miss Shisa nyama or 'Burn the meat' (in Zulu), which denotes enjoying any combination of steaks, chops, kebabs, and chicken among others. If you take this with a local beer, you may not leave South Africa in a hurry!

Nyama na irio (Kenya)

Kenya, in East Africa, is noted for her longdistance runners. But did you know that there's a meal that's guaranteed to leave you longing for more in quick, short bursts? Say hello Nyama na irio, a national favorite in the country and across Eastern Africa. This much-loved dish, initially a Kikuyu staple that has spread through Kenya, comprises mashed-up potatoes, peas, beans, corn and onion and often served with spiced roasted meat, backed by alluring spices and condiments.

Koshari, Egypt (North Africa)

Are you exploring the land of the mythical Pharaohs? As you feast your eyes on impressive pyramids and mummified Egyptian kings, do not forget to fete your taste buds with Koshari, a favorite runaway meal of the average Egyptian family. Watch and join your hosts as you savor a healthy vegetarian serving of rice, lentils, macaroni, garlic, and chickpeas, brought together by a spicy tomato sauce and topped off with fried onion. The meal does not only sound good, but it tastes even better.

GENDER INEQUALITY AND ITS PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS

Gender inequality has a p r o f o u n d e f f e c t o n mental health worldwide.

Some of the psychological effects of gender inequality include higher l e v e l s o f s t r e s s , a n x i e t y , depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in women and people of marginalized genders.

Gender inequality manifests itself in many different ways. People can e x p e r i e n c e m e n t a l h e a l t h conditions as a direct result of gender-based discrimination or violence, for example. They can also develop conditions indirectly as a result of exposure to socioeconomic inequality, chronic stress, and harmful messages in themedia.

WhatisGenderInequality?

Gender inequality refers to the differences between genders in terms of status, power, wealth, health, and employment. When these differences are avoidable and unfair, it is known as gender inequity.

Gender inequity is the product of sexism, which is prejudice or discrimination against people

based on their sex or gender. It primarily impacts women and girls, with consequences that beginatbirth.

Some of the measurable ways that gender inequity affects women globally, in comparison with men, include:

• lower rates of schooling and employment

• lesspayforsimilarwork

• higherlevelsofstress

• higher rates of unpaid work, suchascaringforsickrelatives

• exposure to higher rates of sexual assault, intimate partner abuse, and genderbasedviolence

• a lack of representation in government

Some of the ways that sexism affectseverydaylifeinclude:

• sexistremarks

• sexualharassment

• workplacediscrimination

All of these have a significant impact on the mental and physical health of women and girls, as well as people of other marginalizedgenders.

Unlike sex, which is based on biological traits such as genitalia,

gender refers to how people feel about themselves As a result, anyone can experience gender inequity and sexism based on how t h e y b e h a v e a n d e x p r e s s themselves.

Does gender inequity affect mentalhealth?

Yes. According to a 2020 article, women with mental health conditions outnumber men by as much as two or threefold, dependingonthecondition. Incomparisontomen,womenare:

• t w i c e a s l i k e l y t o h a v e generalizedanxietydisorder

• twice as likely to have panic disorder

• approximately twice as likely to develop depression during theirlifetime

• 4–10 times more likely to have aneatingdisorder

• more than twice as likely to developPTSD

• more likely to attempt suicide, though men are 3 63 times morelikelytodiebysuicide

While it is true that many factors play a role in mental illness, including biological differences between sexes, women are over-

represented in these statistics, as well as in statistics for chronic physicalillnesses.

Studies have shown a link between experiencing discrimination and mental health symptoms. Sexism also exposes people to many of the risk factors of mental health conditions, including chronic stress, negative self-image, and trauma.

Exposuretotrauma

One of the psychological effects of sexism can be trauma. Trauma is a reaction to experiencing a severely distressing event that can cause a wide range of mental and physicalsymptoms,including:

• anxietyandpanic

• anger

• sadness

• numbness

• insomniaornightmares

• dissociation, or feeling disconnected from one's own thoughts,feelings,orbody

• hyper-arousal, which puts the body into a state of alertness, making it difficult torelax

• flashbacks

Traumatic events can affect people differently. If the symptoms persist for long periods after a traumatic event, people may meet thecriteriaforPTSD.

Women are slightly less likely to experience a traumatic event than men But the types of trauma women experience are more likely to lead to PTSD. This includes child abuse and sexual assault, which 1 in 3 women endure during their lifetime. In men, the rate is around 1 in10.

Women are also more likely to experience childhood neglect, intimate partner abuse, the sudden loss of a loved one, and harmful practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM). The

World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 3 million girls undergo FGM every year, most of whom are under the age of 15 yearsold.

Experiencing a traumatic event can lead to depression and anxiety. Depression and anxiety are 2–4 times more prevalent in women who have experienced intimate partner violence, on average, than in the general population. Childhood abuse is alsostronglylinkedtodepression.

Exposuretochronicstress

Stressors are events that can cause stress. Studies have shown that women have more chronic stressors than men. As chronic stress is a risk factor of many health conditions, it is likely this plays a role in the higher rates of mental health conditions among women.

Some examples of stressors that disproportionately affect women include:

Householdresponsibilities

Despite the fact that in many countries it is common in twoparent households for both parents to work, women still spend more time on parenting and houseworkthanmen.

A 2014 nationwide study looking at w o m e n p h y s i c i a n s a n d academics found that among those with partners and children, women spent, on average, 8 5 h o u r s m o r e e a c h w e e k o n domestic chores. Among those with partners who had full-time employment, women were also more likely to take time off from theirjobstotakecareofchildren.

Caregiving

Women provide unofficial care to family members and others more often than men Caring can negatively impact a person ' s

mentalandphysicalhealth. Caregivers have higher stress levels than those who are not caregivers, and women caregivers report more stress and health problems than men caregivers. Research also links caregiving with a higher incidence of depression in womenofchildbearingage. There are many factors that could contribute to this. Informal caregivingcanresultinpeople:

• gettinglesssleeporexercise

• havinglessleisuretime

• earning less money, putting thematahigherriskofpoverty

• becomingsociallyisolated

Any of these can increase strain on aperson'smentalhealth.

Sexualharassment

Sexual harassment refers to unwanted sexual comments or advances A survey from the National Sexual Violence Resource Center found that around twice as many women experience sexual harassmentasmen.

During their lifetime, 81% of women and 43% of men reported at least o n e i n c i d e n t W o m e n w i t h disabilities were the most likely to experience physically aggressive harassment and assault. For most p e o p l e , t h e a g e t h e y fi r s t experienced harassment was between14–17yearsold.

B o t h t h e e x p e r i e n c e o f harassment and the fear of experiencing harassment have a damaging effect on mental health. A 2017 study found that workplace harassment was linked with depressive symptoms, while other studies have linked sexual harassmentto:

• symptomsofPTSD

• lowerqualitysleep

• higher rates of absence from work

Lowerself-esteem

A 2015 cross-cultural study found that across 48 nations, men had higher self-esteem on average than women. One explanation for this is the widespread influence of gender roles, stereotypes, and the emphasis on women ' s physical appearance in certain countries.

A brief 2019 review notes that many studies have shown that gender stereotypes, such as the idea that boys are naturally better than girls at math or science, directly influence academic performance and lower women's confidence in their own abilities. In cultures with weaker stereotypes, the difference in mathematic ability between boys and girls disappears.

Low self-esteem is a risk factor of a number of mental health conditions, some of which can become serious This includes eating disorders.

Bodyimageandeatingdisorders

Self-esteem can be closely related to body image, or how a person feels about their physical appearance. A 2019 report from the British charity Mental Health Foundation foundthatwhenitcametobodyimage: 25%ofwomenand15%ofmenfeltshame 40%ofwomenand28%ofmenfeltanxious 45%ofwomenand25%ofmenfeltdepressed Both low self-esteem and a negative body image are risk factors of eating disorders, which are more prevalent among women thanmen.

One reason for this is beauty standards. In industrialized countries, the ideal for women is often thinness. A 2015 review identified both the idealization of thinness and feeling pressure to be thin as risk factors of the onset ofeatingdisorders.

Summary

Gender inequity has serious and long-lasting consequences for women and other marginalized genders. Exposure to violence, objectification, discrimination, and socioeconomic inequality can lead to anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and PTSD.

While counseling can help individuals affected by mental health issues, systemic change is necessary to achieve equity and reduce the burden of mental illness on all oppressedgroups.

7 HEALTH BENEFITS OF YOUR MORNING COFFEE WHY A CUP A DAY KEEPS THE DOCTOR AWAY

Agrowing body of research is dispelling old myths that coffee is bad for your health. Now, researchers believe that coffee plays an important role in maintaining good health, and may lower your risk of developing a range of lifethreatening diseases including cancer, diabetes and Alzheimer's. But remember, coffee isn't a cure on its own. Rather, it should be consumedaspartofahealthydietandlifestyle.

1.COFFEEHELPS…BURNFAT

Next time you go on a diet, don't eliminate coffee. Studies have shown that caffeine can boost your metabolic rate by as much as 11 per cent. It also increases your fat burning ability – by around 10 per cent in obese people and by almost 30 per cent in thinner individuals. And coffee may even improve your performance at the gym – one study revealed that men who drank a cup of coffee an hour before cycling completed their workout five percent faster.

2.COFFEEHELPS…PREVENTKIDNEYSTONES

If you suffer from kidney stones, it might be worth adding coffee to your diet. A Harvard study revealed that people who drink one or more cups of coffee per day are 26 per cent less likely to develop kidney stones. That's because caffeine increases urination, which expels the excess calcium and sodium that researchers believe causekidneystones.

3.COFFEEHELPS…PROTECTYOURBRAIN

Alzheimer's and dementia are terrifying diseases that currently have no known cure. Prevention is the key, and coffee could play a role in protecting your brain from these debilitating diseases. Studies have shown that drinking coffee could reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer's by up to 65 per cent. A Japanese study also found that people who drink just one cup of coffee per day are20percentlesslikelyto sufferfromastrokethannon-coffeedrinkers.

4. COFFEE HELPS… LOWER YOUR RISK OF DIABETES

Adult on-set type 2 diabetes is at near epidemic levels and comes with a range of associated health risks including heart disease, nerve and kidney damage, eye problems and even Alzheimer's disease. The good news is that research suggests coffee could be a useful weapon in the fight against type 2 diabetes. A review of 18 separate studies determined that your risk of developing type 2 diabetes is reduced by seven percent for each daily cup of coffee you drink. That's because coffee contains chlorogenic acid that has been shown to reduce blood sugar concentrations.

5.COFFEEHELPS…PROTECTTHELIVER

Cirrhosis is a serious disease of the liver that can be fatal, and liver cancer rates have increased by an average of four per cent per year over the last decade. However, studies have shown that people who drink four or more cups of coffee per day have up to an 80 per cent lower risk of developing cirrhosis Researchers from the University of

Hawaii Cancer Centre also found that people who drink two to three cups of coffee per day are 38 per cent less likely todeveloplivercancer.

6. COFFEE HELPS… INCREASE YOUR VITAMININTAKE

Forget the latest trendy superfood — good old coffee is one of the best sources of antioxidants. A single cup of coffee contains vitamin B2, B3 and B5. B2 helps to prevent heart disease and cancer; B3 helps to balance blood cholesterol levels; and B5 helps stabilise blood sugar levels.

7.

COFFEE HELPS… PROTECT AGAINST CANCER

Along with reducing your risk of developing liver cancer, one study revealed that people who drink four to five cups of coffee per day have a 15 per cent lower risk of contracting colorectal cancer, and researchers from the National Cancer Institute in the US believe that people who drink four or more cups of coffer per day are 20 per centlesslikelytosufferfrommelanoma.

11 AMAZING CULTURAL FESTIVALS IN WEST AFRICA

Africa is full of colours and fun. The highlights are seen at some of its festivals Below are 11 amazing West African Festivals you should check out whenever you plan to visit a West Africancountry:

1.GerewolFestivalinChad/Niger

This is an incredible and colourful festival among the Wodaabe people, an ancient group of nomadic cattle herders in the Sahel desert of West Africa. Gerewol is an extraordinary beauty contest, quite the world's most spectacular pageant that is more fiercely contested than Miss World… well, by men who are on parade, wearing the make-up and dancing yaake for a chance to become a folklore hero and to win the heart of a new wife. The festival holds in September at the end of the rainy season.

2.PANAFEST,Ghana

Panafest is a festival of African dance, music and other performing arts. It holds in Ghana biennially for Africans and people of African descent as well as all persons committed to the well-being of Africans on the continent and in the diaspora. It was launched in 1992, and has continued to witness huge followership and colours The festival mainly addresses the traumatic interruption that occurred in the natural evolution of Africansocieties.

3. Fêtes des Masques (Festival of Masks),IvoryCoast

Fêtes des Masques is Ivory Coast's famous annual festival which holds in November It features colourful competitions between villages in order to find the best dancers. Fêtes des Masques is used to pay homage to the forested spirits embodied by the villagers who

wear colourful costumes and fabulous handcrafted masks (many handed down from one generation to another) during thefestival.

4.FestivalauDésert,Mali

This renowned Malian festival was founded on a Tamashek (Tuareg) tradition of festivals when nomadic clans meet in the cooler, dry season to celebrate their culture, music and stories from their year ' s wanderings It has, h o w e v e r , e v o l v e d i n t o a w i d e l y p a r t i c i p a t o r y e v e n t f e a t u r i n g extraordinarily rich musical traditions, dance, camel races, and competitions of the Malian people as a whole. It launched in 2001 and has established itself as one of WestAfrica'smodernspectaclefestivals.

5.CalabarFestival,Nigeria

Arguably Africa's biggest street party, this festival lasts the better second half of December featuring unmatchable entertainment, spectacular colours, unbeatable activities and unimaginable exhibition of culture. It began in 2004 as part of activities to make Cross Rivers States, Nigeria, an African leading tourism destination. Its venues include the Millennium Park, The UJ Esuene Stadium, the Cultural Centre Complex, Marina Beach and Resort, Tinapa and the BotanicalGardenallinCalabar.

6.VoodooFestival,BeninandTogo

In Benin Republic and Togo, voodoo is a serious religion with thousands of devotees, any wonder why the voodoo festival in these countries is most vibrant and colourful. It features voodoo dolls and devotees in animal skins chanting and dancing to drumbeats, as well as horse racing on the beach, and loads of food and drink, and lots more. Make sure you

are there to witness the intriguing world of the occult in full swing when next it holds. The festival holds annually around January 8-12 at Ouidah and Lome in Republic of Benin and Togo respectively.

7.ArgunguFishingFestival,Nigeria

The Argungu international fishing and cultural festival is the most widely attended in Nigeria and perhaps the oldest known festival of its kind. The festival started initially as an informal family and communal affair, and has undergone several changes and modifications. The main event is the fishing contest in the River Mata Fada. More than 30,000 fishermen had taken part in the annual Argungu fishing contest, using nets and traditional gourds made with calabashes. The festival holds in KebbiStateinnortheastNigeria.

8.FESPACO,BurkinaFaso

FESPACO, Africa's largest film festival, holds biannually in Ouagadougou between February and March. It is an event where the crème-dela-crème in Africa film industries come together to display their works with only the best carting away the grand prize— Golden Stallion or L'Étalon de Yennega. FESPACO treats everyone to superb entertainment and climaxes with the presentation of the Golden Stallion or L'Étalon de Yennega—an award to which all filmmakers aspire to win, being the highestawardgrantedtoafilminAfrica.

9.InternationalRootsFestival,TheGambia

The International Roots Festival is a bi-annual historical, cultural and educational event that reminds Africans of their past and affords an opportunity to discuss the continent's future. It is a festival that brings Africans and lovers of the continent everywhere back to their roots Africa, to remember the African ancestors who were forced into slavery to work inforeignlandsomehundredyearsago.

10. Saint Louis International Jazz Festival, Senegal

Music wells up in the typical Senegalese's soul, and this renowned international music festival provides the avenue for unleashing it. The Saint

Louis International Jazz Festival is an entertainment fete where global best musicians hold the audience to spellbinding performances. The festival holds annually at SaintLouis,Senegal.

11.Carnival,GuineaBissau

This carnival is more or less a national fete in Guinea Bissau, holding at different locations though the biggest events seem to be at the Bissau Carnival. It features a big parade, with allegorical cars and people floating through the streets with masks made of animal heads, and their bodies painted or dressed in colourful clothes. Dances, music, sale of foods, wine, beer among others form the highlights of this most attended festival which holds in the week precedinglent.

5 Most Profitable Businesses To Start In Africa

Af r i c a h a s s e e n a s i g n i fi c a n t improvement in their economy as of late. Despite being dubbed as one of the most underdeveloped nations, Africa presents a lot of resources and opportunities thatentrepreneurscantapinto. Six of ten fast-growing economies in the world are African countries With that, prominent businessmen and business experts consider the continent as one of the most attractive investment destination in the world. It's no wonder why a lot of entrepreneurs are looking forward to establishing their business in the continent.

If you ' re planning to expand or start your business, Africa is a great place to do it. Here are some of the most profitable businesses youcanconsider:

AutomobileBusiness

Africans from rural areas are migrating to urban areas for better job opportunities. This led to a population spike in urbanized cities. Because of this, the demand for transportation increasedaswell. It's estimated that the African automobile industry could sell up to 10 million units in the next few years. But only a few companies are producing vehicles in the country. To meet the demand, there should also be an increase in thenumberofautomobilecompanies. This makes the automobile business an ideal in Africa. Moreover, the need for auto services such as auto parts or repair services could also increase.

SolarPower

Many areas in Africa enjoy at least 300 days of sun all year long. Thanks to that, solar energy is abundant in African nations. But even with that, several African families are still left withoutelectricity. The best thing about solar energy is that it's

free and it's sustainable. . A lot of companies have tapped into this resource to provide electricitytomillionsofAfricanhomes. If you have a knack for sustainable energy, a solar power business might be a good businessideaforyou.

Agribusiness

Some parts of Africa are boasting with climates that are perfect for farming. In fact, Africa owns 60% of the world's arable land. However, most farmers in the country do not have access to capital that allows them to cultivate their land. If they rely on the farmers alone, many African countries will experience foodshortages.

For this reason, agribusiness in Africa remains to be profitable. Recently, the concept of 'crowd-farming' is gaining much attention from the public. Crowd farming happens when people in one community pool funds to help farmers produce food. In turn, the investors get a supply of those crops during the harvest season.

The African government currently spends at least $30 billion on food imports. However, if p e o p l e c o n t i n u e t o s u p p o r t l o c a l agribusinesses, the country can produce enough food for its people. This lessens the need for the government to spend much on importedfood.

AffordableHousing

With more migrants flocking into the urban sector, there is a pressing demand for affordable housing options. While the government is doing all they can to provide affordable housing, there's still a need to build more houses to cater to all migrants. This need opens a door of great opportunities for business owners. You can start a real estate or housingcompanytosupplythisdemand.

WasteRecycling

Africa produces large amounts of waste every day. Most of these end up burned or washed away into the landfills and water bodies. This creates another problem for the Africanpopulation.

Hygiene and cleanliness are among the challenges Africa has been facing for years. If these challenges remain unaddressed, the problem will only get worse. Fortunately, entrepreneurs in South Africa and Ethiopia found a way to turn waste into a useful resource.

Agriprotein is a South African invention that turns collected waste into animal feeds. In Ethiopia, they collect the waste from their cities and convert it into energy. This allowed companiestoprovideelectricitytomillionsofhomesacrossthecountry. Forty percent of the population growth in the world is expected to take place in Africa by the year 2050. With that, the waste is also set to increase. By starting waste recycling company now, you'll have the chance of reducing the wastes before it piles up. Waste recycling provides an opportunity for businesses to help the African environment and people.

AfricaisLoomingwithBusinessOpportunities

From hunger to waste mismanagement, Africa faces endless challenges that endanger their economy. But despite that, many believe that entrepreneurship and partnership with different investors is what will drive the Africa towards sustainable development.

In the following years, African millionaires won't be tagged based on the amount of money they have. Rather, they will be identified based on the impact they made in society. African businesses are profitable because their products are what the people need.

Electricity, food, and shelter are a necessity. However, some people aren't fortunate enough to access these basic needs. African business owners respond to the crisis not only to make money, but also to help humanity. If you're one of the people looking to establish your business in African soil, then those ideas are a few of the best. So, get your capital and business plan ready. These business ideas won't only help you jumpstart your entrepreneurial career, but it will also help you make an impact in the livesofthepeopleinthecontinent.

Just A Little Bit Of Kindness

was so angry as I left my project Isupervisor's office that I even forgot to either inform Chinweike how the deliberationinsidewent,orthatIwasgoing.

I guess he saw the awry look on my face and decided not to bother me with 'unnecessary' questions

As I sat inside the keke, waiting for it to get full before the driver moves, I was wondering howonearthIwouldbeabletopullthrough.

"These lecturers always think everyone ' s bouyant like them," I said wordlessly, "Where do I get money to travel to Ibadan, lodge in a hotel for as many days as it would take to get enough of the samples, and feed myself for themanydaysI'llbestayingthere?"

"Sir pls, don't be offended, passengers would soon come and we'll leave" the driver said, apologetically

"And how's that one my concern?" I said, silently, "Will your leaving or staying here for eternity give me the estimated #80k I need to prosecutemy schoolproject?"

Suddenly, an elderly woman, sweating profusely, carrying a heavy load on her head came around and asked the keke driver, "HowmuchtoAzugwu?"

"#200naira,"thedriverreplied "Pls, collect #120 naira," the elderly woman pleaded "#120 naira with this your heavy load?" the

driver said angrily, "Because you ' re the personthatboughtthiskekeforme?"

"Just begging you, my son, " the elderly womanremarked "Old woman, please move so I can be seeing livingthings,"thedrivershouted "Madamenter,"Isaid,"Igopayforyou."

"Wow!"shescreamedjoyfullyassheentered

She thanked me so much and showered prayersonme Soon,thekekewasfullandthedrivertookoff

When we got to the last bus stop and came down, out of pity, l decided to help carry the heavy load to the old woman's house. Her housewasalittleinside Itwasisolatedandsurroundedbybushes.

As we walked through her backyard, guess whatIsaw?

The leaf samples I was hoping to travel to Ibadantolookfor!

She had them in excess! In abundance!! I mean,shehadtheminquantum!!!

I asked her if I could collect some of the leaves for my school project and she said I could even come with lorry and pack them all, as she doesn't even know its name and hasn't touched them for once, not to talk of usingthem.

INTERVIEW WITH A YOUNG

1. Please introduce yourself and your business (what you do and your inventions).

- My name is Benjamin and I'm an academically and commercially astute software developer and engineer with a passion for ideation, design and manufacture of innovative products that saves time and makes life easier. With in-dept knowledge of the principles of software development and engineering along with project based practical knowledge, l am a focused and seasoned Software Engineer and Entrepreneur, a proven Blockchain and FinTech solution architect with strong and effective engineering skills. Over the years, l have been committed to fostering and sustaining professional and productive business relationships across a variety of industries.

2. Can you share what inspired your start-ups period in your career.

Any company thinking about the future and how today's problems will affect the world of tomorrow as well as solve these problems using technology is my primary source of inspiration. These

I.T GURU

companies trying big things and shaping the future inspire me on a day to day.

3. Tell us more how your project works Well, I'm working on a couple of projects right now around the crypto space, I'm more of a block chain solution expert and I'm tilted towards block chain finance and digital banking.

4. How are you hoping to transform the Information Technology and Business in Africa with your invention.

By facilitating the wide adoption of the block chain and cryptocurrency using simple, smart, accessible and safe solutions bordered around the block chain technology and finance

5. With the growing population in Africa, what are your thoughts on the youths taking up more responsibility for a global development and economic stability for Africans?

Africa has the youngest population in the world, with 70% of the population of subSaharan Africans under the

Benjamin Ben

age of 30. Such a high number of young people is an opportunity for the continent's growth – but only if these new generations are fully empowered to realise their best potential. It is especially important that young people are included in decision making and given appropriate opportunities for work and to innovate.

Involving young people in politics and society is not merely a question of inclusion, but one that is vital for economic growth, innovation, peace and security. It is important that youths are involved in decision making. It is important that we as young people are recognised as equal partners and as right holders – Not only as victims. Having a young

population brings many opportunities for economic growth and innovation, if these opportunities can be recognised and utilised. Engage youth, create a space for them and give them a seat at the table. Don't just offer this seat passively, but empower young people to actually use it. Young people have potential and young people have collective power, with the guidance of the government, they can use that power.

In many countries outside of Africa, countries with ageing populations are facing high healthcare costs and a shortage of skilled labour. In Africa, young people face underemployment and lack of opportunities; or without access to the internet, the lack of information about any opportunities. Young people are contributing daily to the benefit of their communities and nations across Africa. From providing support to the elderly, to advocating for justice and equality. Young people have proven their centrality to building and sustaining healthy communities.

6. Please who is your mentor?

Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, lol

7. Do you have any program that you engage with to mentoring other young people in your line of career?

I don't have a primary mentorship program; however, I get invites periodically where i get to share my experiences and of course encourage youths in tech.

8. Please, tell us about your personal life routines, ideologies, believes, and inspirations

Well, I'm a Christian (catholic) to be precise. My routines are kind of same because I'm largely working most of the time. I work minimum of 8 hours and maximum of 14 hours, a day. My hobbies include: playing games, I'm a soccer fan, so I love soccer too. Then of course, I'm the party type, so in as much as I work hard, I ensure I also party hard. Lol.

9. What advice can you give to youths out there?

There will always be people who will criticize you and say this and that is impossible; but you can do it. One piece of advice I would give to youths is to use technology wisely. This generation is fortunate to have so many advantages. At the same time, using technology a lot drains your mind. It might kill your creativity too. So only use the technology when necessary. Youth is the golden time of life when you gain opportunities, lose friends, make new friends, and so much is happening. Use this time wisely and you won't regret it. Step out of your comfort zone today. Do not be afraid to fail. Challenges keep coming and we must ensure we face them as they come. Never stop learning too as we learn everyday. Then ensure you are around the right

YOUTH VIOLENCE

Youth violence is a global public health problem. It includes a range of acts from bullying and physical fighting, to more severe sexual and physical assault to homicide.

Worldwide an estimated 200 000 homicides occur among youth 10–29 years of age each year, making it the fourth leading cause of death for people in this age group. Youth homicide rates vary dramatically between and within countries. Globally, 84% of youth homicide victims are males, and most perpetrators are males too. Between 2000-2016, rates of youth homicide decreased in most countries, although the decrease has been greater in high-income countries than in low- and middleincome countries.

For every young person killed by violence, more sustain injuries that require hospital treatment. Firearm attacks end more often in fatal injuries than assaults that involve fists, feet, knives, and blunt objects. Sexual violence also affects a significant proportion of youth. For example, one in eight young people report sexual abuse. Physical fighting and bullying are also common among young people. A study of 40 developing countries showed that an average of 42% of boys and 37% of girls were exposed to bullying.

Youth homicide and non-fatal violence not only contribute greatly to the global burden of premature death, injury and disability, but also have a serious, often lifelong, impact on a person's psychological and social functioning. This can affect victims' families, friends and communities. Youth violence increases the costs of health, welfare and criminal justice services; reduces productivity;

decreases the value of property. Risk factors within the individual

• attention deficit, hyperactivity, conduct disorder, or other behavioural disorders

• early involvement with alcohol, drugs and tobacco

• low intelligence and educational achievement

• low commitment to school and school failure

• involvement in crime

• unemployment

• exposure to violence in the family

Risk factors within close relationships (family, friends, intimate partners, and peers)

• poor monitoring and supervision of children by parents

• harsh, lax or inconsistent parental disciplinary practices

• a low level of attachment between parents and children

• low parental involvement in children's activities

• parental substance abuse or criminality

• parental depression

• low family income

• unemployment in the family

• associating with delinquent peers and/or gang membership

Risk factors within the community and wider society

• access to and misuse of alcohol;

• access to and misuse of firearms;

• gangs and a local supply of illicit drugs;

• high income inequality;

• poverty;

• the quality of a country's governance (its laws and the

extent to which they are enforced, as well as policies for education and social protection).

Prevention

Promising prevention programmes include:

• life skills and social development programmes designed to help children and adolescents manage anger, resolve conflict, and develop the necessary social skills to solve problems;

• whole school approaches to violence prevention in educational facilities;

• programmes that support parents and teach positive parenting skills;

• preschool programmes that provide children with academic and social skills at an early age;

• therapeutic approaches for youths at high risk of being involved in violence;

• reducing access to alcohol;

• interventions to reduce the harmful use of drugs;

• restrictive firearm licensing;

• community and problemoriented policing; and

• interventions to reduce concentrated poverty and to upgrade urban environments.

• Preventing youth violence requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the social determinants of violence, such as income inequality, rapid demographic and social change, and low levels of social protection.

• Critical to reducing the immediate consequences of youth violence are improvements in pre-hospital and emergency care, including access to care.

2022 World Cup: Facts About Morocco's Success

Despite losing to defending champions France in the final four, history was made by Morocco at the 2022 men's football World Cup in Qatar. They became the first African and first Arab team to advance to a semi-final at the tournament.

The Atlas Lions, endowed with impeccable organization and defensive will, creative midfield passing, speedy offence and the rousing racket of its fans, broke the elusive World Cup glass ceiling against Portugal to face France.

The sound of the Moroccan fans was a lifeblood coursing through the first World Cup to be staged in the Arab world. As magical as Morocco's progress seemed, one should not ignore the fact that no team had scored against them (save for an own goal while defeating Canada) – until France did. The team stamped its authority with unimaginable flair and controlled composure.

There are six notable forces that drove their success.

1. Team spirit

Morocco demonstrated the ultimate collective team spirit to

eliminate higher ranked teams that boasted a generous supply of star individual talents –Belgium, Spain, Portugal. What Morocco lacked in stardom was compensated by sheer desire to win and technical application by the whole team.

Their quarter-final goal, coming after repeated defensive pressure, was scored in the 42nd minute. Some good touches led to Yahya Attiat Allah fielding the ball, controlling it and then sending a cross into the box. There, Youssef En-Nesyri seemed to rise forever above the outstretched hands of the tall Portuguese defenders, to head it in from the center. The fluid passing was beautiful to watch, leaving Portugal bewildered and eliciting pandemonium in the stadium that rippled around the world.

2. Driven by history

Motivated by a desire to go past the quarter-final, Morocco had to learn from history. The last three African sides to reach World Cup quarter-finals – Cameroon in 1990, Senegal in 2002 and Ghana in 2010 – had gone out in the most painful manner, in overtime. In each of these cases, the African teams lacked the composure to see through their leads.

The Atlas Lions defended with all of their hearts and then scored, preventing any possibility of overtime. Even injuries – and striker Walid Cheddira being sent off after a second yellow card –did not destabilize the defensive rhythm of the team. Portugal, including star player Cristiano

Ronaldo, could not find the equalizer. From the beginning, the Moroccans looked determined that history would be made.

3. Defences win championships

Until the semi-finals, Morocco had remained unbeaten. In the round of 16, they eliminated Spain on penalty kicks, where their goalkeeper Yassine Bounou made huge saves to propel them to the quarter-finals. The elimination of Portugal, just like Spain, came on the back of a solid defence that had conceded no goals.

It is often said that defences win championships. If that's the case then Morocco has the qualifications to compete and win at the highest level. But, against France, they could not summon sufficient self-belief and energy to handle the onslaught for long stretches of time. Their ball possession had been 22% against Spain and 23% against Portugal, which speaks to their defensive discipline and efficient execution at scoring. The low possession percentages also show that having plenty of ball possession is not a guarantee for victory. However, taking leads also allows the team to narrow spaces, forcing the opposition to

run more – and then be hit on the counter attack.

4. Fans are the 12th player

Morocco found itself in the unique position of carrying the dual hopes of the Arab region as well as the African continent. Their matches felt like home games, with the team's supporters dominating in the stands. The Moroccan fans cheered the team, jeered their opponents and relentlessly willed on their heroes.

After the final whistle in the quarter-final, the stadium erupted as thousands jumped up and down, hugging and embracing. With fans acting as the 12th player for Morocco, it brought confidence to the team.

For Morocco, playing for the third place is historic and they have already opened a new chapter in the history of the World Cup.

5. Star performers

Despite the pressure of bearing the burden of history, the Atlas Lions demonstrated that they had the technical and tactical capacity to cope. Indeed, the team was steady, organized, serene, defensively sound, creative in midfield and smart and efficient in attack.

Bounou, Achraf Hakimi, Azzedine Ounahi, Romain Saiss, Sofyan Amrabat, En-Nesyri and Hakim Ziyech were Morocco's stand out performers. However, an injury to Saiss was a big blow to their hopes in the semifinal.

Historically, Morocco has been a trailblazer at the World Cup for Africa and were not fazed by Spain and Portugal. They gave a good account of themselves against France. This team has raised the ceiling for African teams and send out a notice to the rest of the world that they can compete with the best.

6. Local coaching

Morocco's Cinderella story at the 2022 World Cup had a lot to do with coach Walid Regragui, who installed an effective defend-and-counter style that none of their opponents – until France – came close to solving.

Regragui ingeniously set up and steered the team to the semi-finals and, in the

process, changed the false narrative that local African coaches are not equal to the task of masterminding team success at this level. Indeed, Regragui's side showed that an African coach can creatively harness both the skills and the wills of the players to achieve national glory.

Eyes on the trophy

The 2022 World Cup has been characterized by unexpected upsets and exceptional entertainment for fans.

One of the goals of world football body FIFA is to continue growing the game.

Morocco's qualification for a semi-final spot was a breakthrough in demonstrating that parity is emerging. There was a big portion of the world's population that would have erupted with joy and tears if team Morocco had their name engraved on the trophy.

Morocco showed that it's possible for an African team to win the World Cup in the near future.

BRIEF HISTORY OF CHRISTMAS

The origins of Christmas stem from both the pagan and Romancultures.

The Romans actually celebrated two holidays in the month of December. The first was Saturnalia, which was a two-week festival honoring their god of agriculture Saturn On December 25th, they

celebrated the birth of Mithra, their sun god. Both celebrations were raucous,drunkenparties.

Also in December, in which the darkest day of the year falls, the pagan cultures lit bonfires and candles to keep the darkness at b a y T h e R o m a n s a l s o incorporated this tradition into

theirowncelebrations.

As Christianity spread across Europe, the Christian clergy were not able to curb the pagan customs and celebrations. Since no one knew Jesus' date of birth, they adapted the pagan ritual into acelebrationofHisbirthday.

CHRISTMASTREES

As part of the solstice celebrations, the pagan cultures decorated their homes with greens in anticipation of the spring to come. Evergreen trees remained green during the coldest and darkest days, so they were thought to hold special p o w e r s T h e R o m a n s a l s o decorated their temples with fir trees during Saturnalia and decorated them with bits of metal. There are even records of the Greeks decorating trees in honor of their gods Interestingly, the first trees brought into the pagan homes were hung from the ceiling, upsidedown.

T h e t r e e t r a d i t i o n w e a r e accustomed to today hails from Northern Europe, where Germanic pagantribesdecoratedevergreen

SANTA CLAUS

In s p i r e d b y S t N i c h o l a s , t h i s Christmas tradition has Christian roots, rather than pagan ones. Born in southern Turkey around 280, he was a bishop in the early Christian church and suffered persecution and imprisonment for his faith. Coming from a wealthy family, he was r e n o w n e d f o r h i s generosity towards the p o o r a n d disenfranchised. The legends surrounding him abound, but the most famous is how he saved three daughters from being sold into slavery There was no dowry to entice a man to marry them, so it was their father's last resort. St Nicholas is said to h a v e t o s s e d g o l d through an open window into the home, thus saving them from their fate. Legend has it that the gold landed in a sock drying by the fire, so

children started hanging stockings by their fires in hopes St. Nicholas would tossgiftsintothem.

In honor of his passing, D e c e m b e r 6 t h w a s declared St. Nicholas day. As time went on, each European culture adapted versions of St. Nicholas. In S w i s s a n d G e r m a n cultures, Christkind or Kris Kringle (Christ child) accompanied St. Nicholas to deliver presents to wellb e h a v e d c h i l d r e n Jultomten was a happy elf delivering gifts via a sleigh drawnbygoatsinSweden.

Then there was Father Christmas in England and Pere Noel in France. In the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Lorraine, France, and parts of Germany, he was known as Sinter Klaas. (Klaas, for the record, is a shortened version of the name Nicholas). This is where the Americanized Santa Claus comesfrom.

CHRISTMASINAMERICA

Christmas in early America was a mixed bag. Many with Puritan beliefs banned Christmas because of its pagan origins and the raucous nature of the celebrations. Other immigrants arriving from Europe continued with the customs of their homelands. The Dutch brought Sinter Klaas with them to New York in the 1600's. The Germans brought their tree traditions in the 1700's. Each celebrated their own way within theirowncommunities.

It wasn't until the early 1800's that the American Christmas began to take shape. Washington Irving wrote a series of stories of a wealthy English landowner who invites his workers to have dinner with him. Irving liked the idea of people of all backgrounds and social status coming together for a festive holiday. So, he told a tale that reminisced about old Christmas traditions that had been lost but were restored by this wealthy landowner. Through Irving's story, the idea began totakeholdintheheartsoftheAmericanpublic.

In 1822, Clement Clark Moore wrote An Account of a Visit from St. Nicholas for his daughters. It's now famously known as The Night Before Christmas. In it, the modern idea of Santa Claus as a jolly man flyingthroughtheskyonasleightookhold.

Later, in 1881, the artist Thomas Nast was hired to draw a depiction of Santa for a Coke-a-Cola advertisement. He created a rotund Santa with a wife named Mrs. Claus, surrounded by worker elves. After this, the image of Santa as a cheerful, fat, white-bearded man in a red suit became embeddedinAmericanculture.

After the civil war, the country was looking for ways to look past difference and become united as a country. In 1870, President Ulysses S. Grant declared it a federal holiday. And while Christmas traditions have adapted with time, I think Washington Irving's desire for unity in celebration lives on. It's become a time of year where we wish others well, donate to our favorite charities, and givepresentswithajoyfulspirit