Topic · Baobab Pulse
Culture
Arts, heritage, literature, and society.
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·7 hours ago
Fasoranti and Fayemi celebrate Wole Soyinka's 92nd birthday
Chief Reuben Fasoranti, Leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation Afenifere, and Dr. Kayode Fayemi, former governor of Ekiti State, extended birthday greetings to Nobel laureate Professor Wole Soyinka on his 92nd birthday. Soyinka, born in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on July 13, 1934, was the first African to win the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1986. Fasoranti described Soyinka as a rare breed and a pride to the Yoruba race, Nigeria, and Africa, whose positive impact transcends ethnic or racial boundaries. He expressed gratitude for Soyinka's contributions and prayed for his longevity and good health. Fayemi, in a statement, hailed Soyinka as a symbol of intellectual excellence, courage, and cultural pride, whose work in literature, human rights, and democratic ideals inspires generations. He noted Soyinka's consistent voice of conscience and mentorship, urging younger generations to draw inspiration from his life of principle and purpose. Fayemi also prayed for Soyinka's continued good health and strength, expressing confidence that his wisdom would continue to guide Nigeria's public discourse.
9 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·9 hours ago
Lagos begins Hajj form sales, sets ₦7m deposit for pilgrims
The Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has commenced the sale of application forms for next year's Hajj and Ramadan Umrah exercises, urging intending pilgrims to register promptly and begin fare payments. According to Abdul-Hakeem Ajomagberin, the Board's Secretary, Hajj forms cost ₦20,000 and Umrah forms cost ₦10,000. Hajj pilgrims are required to make an initial deposit of ₦7 million via bank draft, with a deadline of September 2026 for this payment. Ramadan Umrah pilgrims must similarly provide a ₦5.7 million deposit by bank draft. Pilgrims are advised to obtain official receipts for all payments. This early registration drive aligns with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria's directive to state boards to finalize registrations before the Hajj season, facilitating visa processing, accommodation, and airlift arrangements. The packages include lodging near the Haram, local transport, daily breakfast and dinner, medical care, spiritual guidance, and Ziyarah visits to religious sites. Additionally, enrollment in the Ilera Eko Health Insurance Scheme, costing ₦15,000 for individuals and ₦55,000 for families, is now mandatory for all pilgrims to ensure healthcare access before, during, and after the pilgrimage. The Board emphasized its commitment to transparency and accountability in Hajj administration.
9 min read
🇩🇿Algérie360·13 hours ago
Algerian-Italian student achieves perfect score in Italian Baccalaureate, plans aerospace engineering studies
Zainab Ghebbache, a student with dual Algerian and Italian nationality, achieved a perfect score of 100/100 with "e Lode" with honors on the Italian Baccalaureate, known as the Esame di Maturità, in Belluno, Veneto. She was one of only six students at Renier High School to reach this academic distinction this year. Despite her literary background and passion for poetry, Ghebbache plans to pursue aerospace engineering at the University of Padua, aiming to establish herself as a woman in a scientific field. She also intends to earn a university degree in literature within the next two decades to continue her writing. Her achievement has been celebrated by the Algerian community in Italy, with the Federation of Algerian Students and Executives in Italy, through its founding president Houari Chelakh, congratulating her and her family. The federation expressed hope that Ghebbache will serve as a role model for future generations and a "worthy ambassador of Algeria" abroad.
2 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·15 hours ago
Four Nigerian students to represent the country at the 2026 Spelling Bee World Cup in China
Four Nigerian students, including 2026 African Spelling Bee Junior champion Oluwadamilola Adeolu, will represent Nigeria for the first time at the 2026 Spelling Bee World Cup in Shanghai, China, from July 10 to 20. The team also includes Abdurrahman Yusuf, Chinedu Okediachi, and Maryam Yusuf. Their participation follows their success in the Nigerian and African Spelling Bee championships. The Nigeria Spelling Bee organization described this as a historic moment, highlighting the students' journey from national to continental and now global stages. The quartet carries the hopes of Nigeria and the pride of Africa into the competition. Oluwadamilola Adeolu, a 14-year-old from St. Lawrence Metropolitan College, expressed excitement about competing, meeting new spellers, boosting her vocabulary and confidence, and aiming to win the trophy. She thanked the Nigerian Spelling Bee, the Governor of Ekiti State, parents, coaches, and teachers for their support. Adeolu previously won the Junior category at the African Spelling Bee in Harare, Zimbabwe, where Abdurrahman Yusuf placed third, and Nigeria emerged as the second-best overall team. Her achievements also include second place at the 2023 MTN Spelling Bee, second at the 2024 Ekiti State Spelling Bee, fifth at the 2025 African Spelling Bee, and second at the 2025 Nigeria Spelling Bee. This debut at the Spelling Bee World Cup signifies Nigeria's growing reputation in international academic competitions.
3 min read
🇧🇫Lefaso.net·16 hours ago
Wendok Soccer Tournament in Nebraska promotes Pan-African unity and Burkinabe development
The second edition of the "Wendok Soccer Tournament" is taking place from July 5 to August 2, 2026, in Nebraska, USA. Organized by Burkinabe national Julien Koala, a surgery assistant and sports brand promoter, the competition features eight teams representing various African communities in Nebraska, including ABN FC Burkina Faso, Team USA, Bana Mboka Congo, Omaha Elites, Nebgam Gambia, 9JA FC Nigeria, Sudan, and South Sudan. The tournament aims to promote Pan-African values and specifically enhance Burkina Faso's international image by showcasing its culture, colors, and talents. Koala emphasizes that the initiative seeks to leverage sport as a driver for economic growth, fostering cultural, educational, economic, and sporting exchanges. It also aims to strengthen ties within the Burkinabe diaspora in the United States, encouraging their engagement in development projects for their home country. The tournament is envisioned as a platform for talent detection, potentially connecting Burkinabe players with American clubs or universities. Beyond sports, Koala and his team are exploring business forums, exhibitions, and B2B meetings to attract investments and encourage entrepreneurship in Burkina Faso. They aspire for the "Wendok Soccer Tournament" to become the largest Burkinabe diaspora tournament in North America, attracting more teams from the US, Canada, and other countries, and serving as a platform for sports diplomacy. This edition is supported by Moussa Guira, deputy de
3 min read
🇸🇳SeneNews·16 hours ago
First Lady Marie Khone Faye encourages girls in STEM at Miss Maths and Miss Sciences 2026 reception
First Lady Marie Khone Faye met with the 2026 national winners of the Miss Maths and Miss Sciences competitions, Khadidiatou Ka and Sokhna Mame Bousso Mbacké, at the Presidential Palace. The First Lady emphasized the importance of promoting girls' access to scientific careers and removing barriers that limit their presence in these fields. She highlighted her commitment to education and female excellence, recalling her support in March 2026 during a visit to the Diourbel Scientific Excellence High School, where she awarded scholarships and school kits to six girls with high academic averages. During discussions with the laureates, topics included challenges in girls' schooling, conditions for academic success, and ways to strengthen their orientation towards science. Marie Khone Faye urged young Senegalese girls to believe in their abilities, strive for excellence, and pursue scientific paths. She also acknowledged the families and teachers who supported the students' success, presenting them with gifts and awards of encouragement.
1 min read
🇸🇳SeneNews·17 hours ago
Morocco and Senegal celebrate shared history with photographic exhibition in Dakar
The Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in Dakar, in partnership with the newspaper Le Soleil, is organizing a photographic exhibition titled "Morocco-Senegal: a shared history, a destiny in the making." The exhibition, which opens on July 14, 2026, at the Residence of the Moroccan Embassy in Dakar, commemorates the 27th anniversary of King Mohammed VI's accession to the throne. It will showcase the spiritual, cultural, and human ties between Morocco and Senegal over several decades. Featuring photographs from Le Soleil's archives, the exhibition highlights key moments in the relationship between Rabat and Dakar since independence, including official visits and meetings between leaders. Beyond the historical aspect, the initiative aims to emphasize a common heritage of religious, cultural, human, and economic connections, while also fostering discussion on future cooperation. The opening will be followed by a conference led by Dr. Bakary Sambe, regional director of the Timbuktu Institute – African Center for Peace Studies, focusing on the historical foundations, strategic issues, and prospects of the Moroccan-Senegalese partnership. The event will gather Senegalese authorities, diplomatic representatives, cultural and media figures, and members of the Moroccan community in Senegal.
1 min read
Must Read🇬🇭GhanaWeb·19 hours ago
Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II's legacy of peace and reconciliation in Dagbon
The passing of Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II, the Overlord of the Dagbon Traditional Area, has highlighted his pivotal role in restoring peace after a 16-year chieftaincy dispute. Enskinned on January 18, 2019, he ascended to the throne following extensive mediation efforts. His reign focused on reconciliation, stability, and rebuilding trust within the kingdom, which had been in turmoil since violent clashes in Yendi in April 2002. These clashes led to the death of Yaa Naa Yakubu Andani II and 29 others, prompting a state of emergency declared by President John Agyekum Kufuor. The conflict between the Andani and Abudu royal gates left Dagbon without an overlord for over 16 years. A breakthrough came through the Committee of Eminent Chiefs, led by the late Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, which developed a roadmap for performing the funerals of the late Mahamadu Abdulai IV and Yaa Naa Yakubu Andani II. Yaa Naa Abukari II consistently urged peaceful coexistence and dialogue, consolidating the peace achieved through mediation. He also worked to strengthen traditional governance by championing amendments to the Dagbon Constitution and oversaw development initiatives, including the redevelopment of the Gbewaa Palace. His legacy is one of reconciliation, stability, and hope, marking a new chapter in Dagbon's history.
4 min read
Must Read🇬🇭GhanaWeb·19 hours ago
Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II, Overlord of Dagbon, dies after seven-year reign
Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II, the Overlord of the Dagbon Kingdom, has died after serving on the throne for seven years. He became the 41st Yaa Naa in January 2019 following the successful implementation of the Dagbon Peace Roadmap, which ended a protracted chieftaincy conflict. Born into the Dagbon royal family at Mion, he was the son of Yaa Naa Mahama II. Before ascending the Dagbon throne, he served as the chief of Kpunkpono and later Savelugu. His significant achievements include restoring peace to Dagbon, reuniting the Abudu and Andani royal gates, and ushering in a period of stability. He launched the Dagbon Development Fund in 2021 to mobilize resources for socio-economic advancement and initiated a review of the Dagbon Constitution in 2020. On March 4, 2023, he cut the sod for the reconstruction of the Gbewaa Palace. Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II is remembered for promoting peace, unity, and development, leaving a legacy that transformed the Dagbon Kingdom.
1 min read
🇰🇪Tuko·20 hours ago
Kenya ranks 19th globally in English proficiency, leads East Africa
Kenya has been ranked 19th globally in the 2025 EF English Proficiency Index, achieving a score of 593 and placing it in the 'high proficiency' category. This position makes Kenya one of the strongest English-speaking nations in Africa and the highest-ranked in East Africa. The index, published by international education company EF, measures adult English ability in non-native speaking countries. Among African nations, only South Africa and Zimbabwe, both at 13th place with scores of 602, reached the 'very high proficiency' category. Kenya surpassed other African countries like Zambia 27th and Nigeria 29th. In East Africa, Uganda was 53rd 'moderate proficiency', Ethiopia 65th, and Tanzania 77th 'low proficiency'. Globally, the Netherlands led the index, followed by Croatia and Austria. The report attributes Kenya's strong performance to its long-standing English-medium education system, which provides a competitive advantage in regional business, technology, and international diplomacy.
2 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·20 hours ago
Ashton Hall names Nigeria as favorite African destination, calls Lagos "African Miami
American fitness influencer Ashton Hall has identified Nigeria as his favorite African destination following a recent tour of the continent. He remarked that Lagos reminded him of "an African version of Miami." Hall shared these comments during an interview on his Kick account after concluding his multi-country African tour. He praised Nigeria's vibrant culture, hospitality, and cuisine, stating that the country made the strongest impression on him among all the African nations he visited. While he described Nigeria as an incredible place to visit, Hall indicated he would prefer to return occasionally rather than relocate permanently. His visit to Nigeria generated significant social media excitement, with fans, celebrities, and content creators welcoming him. During his stay in Lagos, he met music executive Don Jazzy and collaborated with Nigerian streamers and digital creators, attracting millions of views. Hall's continental tour also included South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Ghana. Throughout the trip, he shared videos showcasing local cuisines, tourist attractions, fitness activities, and cultural experiences, which garnered significant online engagement. Hall gained prominence through his fitness and motivational content on social media, documenting his disciplined lifestyle and workout routines. His trademark videos, featuring structured morning routines and motivational narration, became viral sensations, earning him millions of followers. His popularity inc
2 min read
Must Read🇸🇳SeneNews·20 hours ago
Senegal's baccalaureate exam: reducing pressure and diversifying pathways to success
The emotional burden surrounding the baccalaureate exam in Senegal has become excessive, highlighted by the presumed suicide of a student after failing and a candidate's distress during results announcements. The annual release of results creates intense tension for thousands of candidates and their families, with public readings and community scrutiny adding to the psychological pressure. The recurring presence of firefighters and emergency services at result announcements underscores the stress. Many advocate for modernizing procedures, using digital technologies for discreet access to results, to alleviate this pressure. Beyond the announcement process, the baccalaureate's role in the collective imagination is questioned. In many families and communities, it is seen as the primary, if not sole, path to social success, leading to considerable pressure on young people, sometimes at the expense of their psychological well-being. While an important diploma, it should not define an individual's worth or solely determine their future, as many successful paths exist outside general education. This discussion also reignites debate on valuing technical education, vocational training, and craftsmanship. With shortages of skilled labor in certain professions, observers believe it is crucial to diversify success models offered to young people. Reducing pressure around the baccalaureate, while enhancing education quality and valuing practical skills, could significantly support Senegal
2 min read
🇰🇪Tuko·21 hours ago
Catholic Bishop suspends six priests in Maralal Diocese over abuse allegations and negligence
Bishop Hieronymus Emusugut Joya of the Catholic Diocese of Maralal has suspended six priests due to alleged abuse of ecclesiastical authority, negligence in administration, and mismanagement of church temporal goods. The suspended priests are Rev. Fr. Paul Maina, Rev. Fr. Peter Musau, Rev. Fr. Stephen Lekasuyan, Rev. Fr. Peter Nderitu, Rev. Fr. Christopher Letikirich, and Rev. Fr. John Dida. Bishop Joya stated that these actions were taken after receiving credible evidence and in accordance with the Code of Canon Law. He also introduced new directives for all priests, prohibiting them from drinking in bars, cohabiting, owning private businesses unrelated to the Church, and staying out overnight without permission. Additionally, priests are forbidden from presiding over liturgical celebrations while under the influence of alcohol. The bishop also announced five new priestly appointments to strengthen pastoral leadership within the diocese and urged the faithful to pray for the suspended priests.
6 min read
Must Read🇳🇦The Namibian·1 day ago
Namibian delegation in South Africa for repatriation of Robben Island prisoners' remains
A Namibian delegation is on a five-day mission to South Africa to oversee the exhumation and repatriation of the remains of two former Robben Island prisoners buried in Cape Town. The Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture stated that the delegation is meeting with South African officials to discuss the legal, cultural, technical, and logistical arrangements for the process. The delegation includes representatives from traditional authorities, former Robben Island prisoners, family members of the deceased, and government officials, as well as officials from the Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs, the Ministry of International Relations and Trade, the Museums Association of Namibia, and the National Heritage Council of Namibia. The program involves visits to various museums and cemeteries, including the Iziko Museums of South Africa, the Mayibuye Archives, the District Six Museum, the Robben Island Museum, and the Gugulethu and Maitland cemeteries. These visits will also include cultural rituals and site inspections. The mission is scheduled to conclude by July 14.
1 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·2 days ago
Nehemiah Danjuma becomes first deaf lawyer from Northern Nigeria
Nehemiah Danjuma has been called to the Nigerian Bar, marking a historic achievement as the first deaf lawyer from Northern Nigeria. Danjuma, from Jaba, Kaduna State, studied Common Law at the University of Ilorin and completed his Bar Part II program at the Abuja Campus of the Nigerian Law School. His journey has garnered admiration from colleagues and disability rights advocates, with a friend learning sign language to communicate with him during law school. Danjuma initially faced a setback in his university admission, being offered Primary Education Studies before successfully reapplying for Law in 2018. Beyond his academic pursuits, Danjuma is a prominent disability rights advocate and youth leader. His professional interests include disability law and policy, human rights, international law, and the intersection of assistive technology and disability. He served as a Students’ Union Senator for students with disabilities at the University of Ilorin and as National President of the National Association of Nigerian Deaf Students for two terms. Danjuma also served as a Youth Adviser on Human Development on the European Union Youth Sounding Board in Nigeria and was a Coelho Law Fellow at Loyola Law School, Los Angeles, specializing in disability rights law. He completed externships at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory and the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation. Danjuma acknowledged support from the Voice of Disability Initiative for a sign languag
3 min read
Must Read🇪🇹The Reporter Ethiopia·2 days ago
Afar Mada’a legal system nominated for UNESCO intangible cultural heritage list
Ethiopia's Afar Mada’a and Mablo customary legal systems, which emphasize restorative justice and communal harmony, are being considered for inscription on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This nomination was finalized during a workshop in Semera, Afar Regional State, and combines dossiers from Ethiopia and Djibouti, highlighting the system's multinational significance for Afar communities in both countries. Omer Nur Arba, vice president of the Afar Regional Government, and Elias Shukur, deputy director general of the Ethiopian Heritage Authority, both underscored the system's role in guiding community governance, fostering peace, and strengthening cross-border ties. Political scientist Mu’uz Gidey Alemu's study indicates the Mada’a system has been maintained for over 350 years by the predominantly Muslim pastoralist Afar people, spanning parts of Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Eritrea. The system, comprising the Mada’a customary law, Mablo arbitration/mediation, and Qadda moral code, handles over 95 percent of local criminal cases where state institutions have limited reach. It focuses on conflict transformation, distinguishing between intentional and unintentional harm, and uses mechanisms like Meglo to prevent revenge cycles. The study also notes the system's institutions, Adanle and Xinto, manage relations with neighboring groups. While acknowledging structural limitations, such as gender provisions, the study suggests reforms to alig
6 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·2 days ago
US-based Nigerian Professor Hakeem Tijani to receive NiDCOM National Diaspora Merit Award for contributions to education
Professor Hakeem Tijani, a Nigerian academic based in the United States, has been named a recipient of the National Diaspora Merit Award NDMA 2026 by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission NiDCOM. The award recognizes his contributions to education. NiDCOM conveyed this decision in a letter dated May 22, 2026, signed by its Secretary, Sule Bassi, on behalf of the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Abike Dabiri-Erewa. The Federal Government designated July 25 as National Diaspora Day to acknowledge the contributions of over 20 million Nigerians living abroad to the country’s development. The NDMA aims to celebrate Nigerians in the diaspora who have excelled in their fields and contributed to Nigeria's development. The National Diaspora Day 2026 celebrations are scheduled for July 24, 2026, at the Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja, at 15:00hrs WAT, with the National Diaspora Merit Award ceremony taking place on July 25, 2026, at 17:00hrs WAT at the same venue. Intending participants are advised to register via NiDCOM's official website.
1 min read
🇪🇬Egypt Today·2 days ago
Macklemore visits Egypt's Giza Pyramids, shows support for Egypt and Palestine
Grammy-winning artist Macklemore visited the Giza Pyramids during his trip to Egypt. He shared a photo from the landmark on social media, including Egyptian and Palestinian flag emojis in his post. This gesture garnered significant online attention, with followers commending his appreciation for Egypt's cultural heritage and his ongoing public support for Palestine.
1 min read
🇲🇦Le Matin·2 days ago
Lauryn Hill and Juanes headline Jazzablanca 2026, delivering captivating performances
Lauryn Hill, a former member of the Fugees, brought a wave of nostalgia to Anfa Park at Jazzablanca 2026, performing a mix of hip-hop, soul, R&B, and reggae. She was joined on stage by Wyclef Jean, another former Fugees member, and together they revisited iconic Fugees tracks such as "Ready or Not," "Killing Me Softly," and "Fu-Gee-La." Hill also performed solo material from her career, including songs from her album "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill." Her sons, YG Marley and Zion Marley, grandsons of Bob Marley, also made an appearance, showcasing their musical talent. Earlier in the evening, Colombian singer and guitarist Juanes energized the Casa Anfa stage with his Latin rock, performing hits like "Me Enamora," "Mala Gente," "Fotografia," "La Noche," and "La Camisa Negra." His performance blended Latin rhythms with rock influences. On Scene 21, American singer Ami Taf Ra presented her unique style, combining Moroccan roots with European influences, featuring contemporary jazz, oriental textures, and spiritual elements. She expressed her honor to perform at Jazzablanca and noted the inclusion of Gnawa sounds and Arabic passages in her latest jazz-focused album. Following her, Angolan artist Bonga performed, showcasing semba, an Angolan musical genre, and expressing his cultural identity through his music.
3 min read
🇬🇭GhanaWeb·2 days ago
Archival footage shows Ghanaians scrambling for essential goods during 1973 shortages
An old archival video has resurfaced, depicting Ghanaians struggling to purchase essential commodities, particularly sugar, during the severe shortages of 1973. The footage shows large crowds at the Accra Community Centre attempting to secure subsidized goods after the National Redemption Council NRC government, led by Colonel Ignatius Kutu Acheampong, confiscated hoarded supplies and made them available to the public. Ghana faced acute shortages of subsidized items like sugar and milk, largely due to hoarding, smuggling, and black-market trading. In response, the NRC government seized these commodities and organized direct public sales at designated centers to ensure consumers could buy them at subsidized prices. The video illustrates the desperation of many Ghanaians, with long queues and crowds rushing for essential items, highlighting the economic challenges of the early 1970s.
1 min read
🇧🇫Lefaso.net·2 days ago
Burkinabe filmmaker Corenthien Nana discusses challenges and potential of national cinema
Burkinabe filmmaker Corenthien Nana, whose passion for cinema began in childhood, transitioned from science studies to filmmaking after succeeding in a state competition. He trained as a cinema and audiovisual assistant, choosing directing because it aligned with his personality as a "technician" and "man of the field." Nana has directed five feature films, starting with "Le Sort de Nestor" in 2019, followed by "L'Hymne d'amour" 2021, "La Colère du roi" 2022, "Honorable" 2024, and "La Conseillère" 2025, which was selected for competition at Fespaco. His latest film, "Besoin d'un père," currently showing at Ciné Burkina, addresses social pressure on women to have male children. Nana draws inspiration for his scripts from observing society, current events, culture, arts, governance, education, and ethics, aiming to raise awareness about societal issues. He believes Burkinabe cinema has significant potential due to new state initiatives, such as the creation of a structure to support film institutions, and the development of projection rooms and digital platforms. However, he identifies major obstacles: financing, which is scarce; training, as access to institutions like ISISS is limited; and the high cost of quality cinematic equipment, which often requires importation. Nana is currently writing new projects and aims to create a popular cinema festival to encourage public attendance, noting that while major events like Fespaco fill cinemas, attendance drops afterward. He encour
5 min read
Must Read🇸🇳SeneNews·2 days ago
African women share experiences of social pressure and stigma due to childlessness
The pressure on childless women is now a public debate, fueled by testimonies from African personalities. Guinean influencer Mimiche Diabaté and Ivorian journalist Konnie Touré have helped open up discussion on the social and digital harassment often experienced by women without children. Following their statements, many women have shared their experiences on social media, denouncing the remarks, judgments, and pressures they face. Mariame Tanou Diallo, a 27-year-old Guinean woman, married and childless, reported receiving intrusive comments about her physical appearance, with people asking if she was pregnant due to weight gain. This led her to reduce her social media presence. Mariame also experiences harassment from family and friends, who question her presumed infertility and suggest traditional healers. This situation deeply affects her emotional well-being. According to specialists and women's rights activists, this pressure is based on the widespread idea that a couple's childlessness is primarily, if not exclusively, the woman's fault. Guinean feminist Kadiatou Konaté stated that this perception reinforces the stigmatization of affected women. She highlighted that infertility can originate from either women or men, yet the man's role is rarely questioned. These testimonies contribute to breaking the long-held silence on this issue, highlighting the psychological, social, and economic consequences of persistent pressure on childless women. They also open a debate on th
2 min read
🇲🇦Le Matin·2 days ago
Morocco's potential as a major African music hub highlighted by AFRIMA
The All Africa Music Awards AFRIMA is celebrating its 10th edition, marking a decade of building Africa's largest platform for music and creative industries in partnership with the African Union Commission. AFRIMA has celebrated thousands of artists, fostered continental cooperation, and contributed to African music's growth as a cultural export. Notable success stories include Wiyaala from Ghana, Shyn from Madagascar, and Nikita Kering from Kenya. AFRIMA's work extends beyond awards, focusing on seven strategic pillars: the Awards ceremony, Music Festival, The AFRIMA Kreative Academy Taka, Music Business Hub, talent discovery and promotion, policy debate and advice, and advocacy. Future ambitions include training 1.2 million young African creatives through Taka over the next five years and strengthening the African music value chain via the Music Business Hub to boost GDP and exports. Morocco was chosen as a strategic stop for the "Road to AFRIMA 2026" tour due to its dynamic cultural and creative economy, its role in connecting Africa with Europe, the Middle East, and the global diaspora, and its commitment to music and cultural diplomacy. AFRIMA has collaborated with Moroccan institutions since 2015, with recent meetings including the Minister of Youth, Culture and Communication, the Vice-President of the Casablanca-Settat region, and the Director General of the Moroccan Agency for International Cooperation AMCI. Moroccan artists have achieved significant success at AFRIMA
9 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·3 days ago
Ndayola Ulenga, award-winning Namibian theatremaker, to pursue master's at London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art
Award-winning Namibian theatremaker Ndayola Ulenga, recently honored with the Namibian Theatre and Film Awards’ best directing prize for her adaptation of 'The Wasp', is set to begin a master’s of fine arts in professional acting at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art Lamda in September. Ulenga, who describes music as her first language, honed her craft through ballet and drama from a young age. After earning a bachelor of social science degree with a major in drama and a postgraduate diploma in management and marketing from the University of Cape Town, she initially worked in marketing and advertising while seeking opportunities in the arts. Her career has since flourished, with her filmography including 'The Funeral' and 'Penda’s Dilemma'. She gained significant recognition with 'Stories from Childhood', later reworked into 'Koko', a semi-autobiographical solo performance that explores her Namibian identity and family history, presented in collaboration with Owela Live Arts Collective Trust. Ulenga recently participated in the International Forum at the Berliner Festspiele’s Theatertreffen, the world’s largest German-language theatre festival, where she noted the primary difference between Namibian and German theatremakers was resources, not talent. She aims to use her upcoming studies at Lamda to advocate for Namibian and African artists on an international stage, emphasizing the importance of stories as natural resources for national development. Ulenga is curren
6 min read