Blog.

Michael O. Michael O.

South Africa's ANC Takes a Stand: Embassy Closure and ICC Referral Amid Israeli-Gaza Conflict

In a resounding move, South Africa's ruling African National Congress (ANC) has declared its support for a parliamentary motion that advocates for the closure of the Israeli embassy in South Africa. The motion, put forth by the opposition Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), also calls for the suspension of all diplomatic ties with Israel. This decision, driven by solidarity with the Palestinian people in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, harks back to South Africa's historical support for the Palestinian cause, drawing parallels with its own struggle against apartheid.

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Michael O. Michael O.

Tems: From Poetic Beginnings to Grammy Glory

In 2023, Tems, along with Future and Drake, achieved a groundbreaking feat by winning the Grammy Award for Best Melodic Rap Performance with their collaborative masterpiece, "Wait for U." This monumental achievement not only marked a historic moment for Tems but also positioned her as the first female Nigerian artist to grasp the prestigious Grammy accolade, solidifying her place as a trailblazer in the global music scene.

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Michael O. Michael O.

Rwanda's Passport Revolution: Breaking Borders for a Pan-African Era of Economic Empowerment!

Building on the recent announcement by President Paul Kagame of Rwanda, the decision to allow visa-free travel for all Africans marks a pivotal moment in the continent's quest for unity and development. As Kagame emphasized during the 23rd Global Summit of the World Travel and Tourism Council in Kigali, this move is a strategic step toward transforming Africa into "a unified tourism destination."

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Michael O. Michael O.

Nigeria's Fiscal Choices: A Call for Priorities and Public Accountability

In a recent turn of events, Nigeria's lawmakers have approved a supplemental budget that has ignited widespread criticism and public outcry. The budget, earmarked to supplement the country's expenditures for 2023, has allocated staggering amounts for luxury items such as SUVs, houses, and even a presidential air fleet. This move has sparked anger among citizens in a country grappling with economic challenges and poverty.

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Michael O. Michael O.

Diébédo Francis Kéré: Architect Extraordinaire, Builder of Dreams

In the world of architecture, there are visionaries, and then there's Diébédo Francis Kéré. Born in the small village of Gando in Burkina Faso, this remarkable architect has made a name for himself on the global stage through his dedication to innovation, sustainability, and an unwavering commitment to community-driven design. Join us on a journey to explore the extraordinary life and contributions of the man reshaping the architectural landscape.

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Michael O. Michael O.

The Evolution of Contemporary African Architecture

African architecture is a vivid tapestry, reflecting a rich history, cultural diversity, and a deep connection with the environment. From the age-old mud-brick homes of the Sahel to the timeless coral stone structures along the Swahili coast, it is a testament to the seamless blend of tradition and innovation. In this article, we embark on a journey into the world of contemporary African architecture, a vibrant movement that harmoniously combines the echoes of the past with the aspirations of the future.

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Michael O. Michael O.

Festival of Nations: Maine's Worldly Extravaganza!

Nestled within the captivating landscapes and charming coastal towns of Maine, a spectacular event unfolds each year - the Festival of Nations at Deering Oaks in Portland. This annual celebration is a vibrant tapestry of cultures, an international feast, and a passport to explore the globe without leaving the state.

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Michael O. Michael O.

Thomas Sankara: The Revolutionary Who Defied Global Powers

When we think of iconic leaders who reshaped the course of history, names like Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi, and Martin Luther King Jr. often spring to mind. However, there's one unsung hero from the heart of Africa who deserves a spotlight of his own – Thomas Sankara. Brace yourselves for an exhilarating journey through the life of the charismatic revolutionary who dared to defy global powers in his quest for change.

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Michael O. Michael O.

Liberia's Epic Battle: Elections 2023

In the heart of West Africa, Liberia is once again at a pivotal moment in its history, as it embarks on high-stakes presidential and parliamentary elections. This landmark event marks the nation's first electoral test since the departure of a UN peacekeeping mission, signaling Liberia's journey towards self-reliance and democracy.

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Michael O. Michael O.

Africa's Evolving Response to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

Amid the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Africa's role in shaping the narrative is one filled with complexity and intrigue. As the echoes of the October 2023 war resonate across the globe, African nations are offering a diverse range of responses that reflect the continent's changing dynamics.

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Michael O. Michael O.

Unraveling the Niger-France Crisis: Understanding Neo-Colonial Tensions

In the heart of Africa's Sahel region, a significant geopolitical event is unfolding involving Niger and France. This situation carries echoes of history, as the two nations navigate complex issues. This crisis involves a mix of historical echoes, security concerns, and socio-economic challenges, highlighting a shadow from the past that requires our attention.

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Michael O. Michael O.

Afrobeat's Rise: A Journey from Lagos to the World

In the bustling 1960s and 70s Lagos, Nigeria, a musical revolution was underway. Afrobeat, a captivating blend of traditional African rhythms, jazz, highlife, and funk, emerged as a potent force for social and political change. At its forefront was Fela Anikulapo Kuti, a visionary whose musical genius would transcend borders and generations.

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Michael O. Michael O.

Mohamed Aboutrika: From Football Icon to Political Controversy 

The tale of Mohamed Aboutrika is one of remarkable highs and, more recently, deeply troubling lows. This Egyptian football icon, renowned for his dazzling skills and contributions to both his country and the beautiful game, now finds himself entangled in a complex web of political controversy, a stark contrast to the adulation he once enjoyed.

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Michael O. Michael O.

The Cultural Evolution of Laying Edges in Black Hairstyling

Laying edges, "edge control" or "sleeking," is a popular hairstyling technique, usually as a finishing touch, among women of color with textured hair. It involves sleeking down, shaping, and styling the baby hairs found along the hairline area, with styling products such as styling gel and a brush, to create a sleek, fun, and stunning look. Yes, laying edges is a popular trend today and a prominent part of pop culture, but it's—by no means—new and dates back to the early 1900s.

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Michael O. Michael O.

The Himba People of Namibia

The Himba, also known as the Ovahimba, are an indigenous group, with a population of around 50,000, residing in northwest Namibia and across the Kunene River in Angola. The Kunene River has been the ancestral home of the Himba people for over 500 years.

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Michael O. Michael O.

Live Tutoring for Premium Members: Out Now

NKENNE, our leading African language learning app, is revealing its plans to enhance the user experience by offering live tutoring to premium members. This move is in line with the platform’s ambition to not only disseminate African language education to the global community but also to provide a more immersive and interactive learning experience.

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Michael O. Michael O.

Exploring Ghana's Rich Cultural Practice of Day-Born Names

In Ghana, naming is a significant cultural process that is seen as a sacred obligation that calls for thorough deliberation and thinking. Children in Ghana are given names depending on several elements, such as the day of the week they were born, the circumstances of their birth, their gender, and the preferences of their parents.

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