The 125-year-old institution is teaching a new generation of Belgians a different history.
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Intro Video
Sunday, June 11, 2023
Nigerian kidnap gangs drive big-time Nigerian farmers away
Saturday, June 10, 2023
Dragos Tigau: Romania recalls Kenya ambassador over racist monkey slur
Sudan ceasefire brings uneasy calm to Khartoum
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Friday, June 9, 2023
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The Power of African Textiles: History and Symbolism of Traditional Fabrics
Throughout the centuries, textiles have served as a silent language, expressing more than words can often articulate. In Africa, this language is powerful, vibrant, and steeped in history. African textiles tell stories, signify social status, celebrate important events, and symbolize cultural values. They're more than mere fabrics; they're a rich tapestry of life and identity.
One of the most distinctive textiles hails from West Africa, known as 'Kente'. Originating from the Akan ethnic group in Ghana, Kente is recognized by its bold, geometric patterns and vibrant colors, each bearing a specific meaning. It’s not just a cloth; it’s a visual representation of history, philosophy, ethics, and social code.
In East Africa, the 'Kanga' reigns supreme. This rectangular cotton fabric is typically adorned with beautiful borders and a central inscription, or 'jina', usually a Swahili proverb. The Kanga is a social tool for women, an unspoken method of communication, and a canvas of wisdom.
In the Sahara's heart, the 'Tuareg' people create the 'Tagelmust', an indigo-dyed cotton fabric used as a turban and veil. The intense blue color signifies the sky, a symbol of wisdom and eternity. It’s a testament to the endurance of the human spirit under the desert sun.
While we celebrate these textiles for their aesthetic appeal, we must remember the deeper meanings they carry. The weaving techniques passed down through generations represent a link to the past, a connection to ancestors, and a tribute to African creativity.
Today, African textiles are making waves in global fashion, interior design, and art, bringing their narratives to the world stage. However, to fully appreciate their beauty, we must understand the stories they tell and the cultures they represent.
In the loom of each fabric, we find the threads of history, identity, and resilience. African textiles are not just about the clothes we wear, but the stories we tell, the values we uphold, and the heritage we carry. They stand as an enduring testament to the power and spirit of Africa.
So, the next time you admire an African textile, look beyond the color and pattern. Listen to its story. It's a language that speaks of a rich, vibrant, and resilient continent. And that’s the power of African textiles.
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Exploring African Indigenous Religions and Their Impact on Diaspora Spirituality
There is a saying in Africa that goes, "When an elder dies, a library burns down." It implies the profound loss of wisdom, stories, and spiritual traditions passed down through generations. African indigenous religions, often as diverse and vibrant as the continent itself, form a significant part of this intangible heritage. Their influence seeps into every aspect of life, from family relations to social ethics, from artistic expression to community cohesion. However, their impact extends far beyond the boundaries of the African continent, reaching into the hearts and souls of the African diaspora worldwide.
The journey of African spirituality across the Atlantic during the slave trade is a tale of resilience and adaptation. In the Americas, enslaved Africans found ingenious ways to preserve their spiritual beliefs, even in the face of extreme adversity. They disguised their deities under the names of Catholic saints and continued their rituals in secret, giving birth to new religious systems like Vodou in Haiti, Candomblé in Brazil, and Santeria in Cuba. These syncretic religions, while having evolved, still bear the unmistakable imprint of their African roots.
In North America, the spiritual practices of African diaspora communities have often been more subtle but no less significant. The call-and-response style in Black American gospel music, for instance, echoes West African communal worship practices. Similarly, the African concept of "Ubuntu" - the belief in a universal bond of sharing that connects all humanity - has been a guiding principle in many African American communities, influencing social justice movements and community-building efforts.
What is remarkable about African indigenous religions is their profound connection to nature. The sacred is not confined to temples or scriptures but permeates the entire cosmos. Rivers, mountains, trees, animals - all are imbued with spiritual significance. This holistic worldview resonates with many in the African diaspora who seek a more integrative approach to spirituality, one that honors the interconnectedness of all life and respects the Earth.
The legacy of African indigenous religions in the diaspora is a testament to the enduring power of spiritual traditions to provide strength, resilience, and a sense of identity. It is a heritage that continues to evolve, to inspire, and to contribute to the rich tapestry of global spirituality. In understanding and appreciating this legacy, we not only honor the past but also enrich our present and future spiritual landscapes.
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Wednesday, June 7, 2023
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African Women Trailblazers: Profiles of Inspiring Female Leaders Across the Continent
Africa is not just a continent; it's a tapestry of cultures, histories, and traditions. And in this vibrant tapestry, there are threads that shine brighter, threads that refuse to be overlooked—these are the African women trailblazers. They are leading, innovating, and inspiring change across the continent, carving out spaces in industries and arenas often dominated by men.
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf: The 'Iron Lady' of Africa
First on our list is Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the former president of Liberia. Sirleaf was the first elected female head of state in Africa, earning her the nickname "Africa's Iron Lady". She steered Liberia through recovery after a brutal civil war, championing economic and social reforms. A Nobel Peace Prize laureate, she stands as a testament to resilience and leadership.
Dr. Awele Elumelu: Championing Healthcare and Entrepreneurship
In the world of health and entrepreneurship, one name stands out: Dr. Awele Elumelu. She is the founder of Avon Medical Practice and a Trustee of the Tony Elumelu Foundation. She's driving transformation in healthcare provision across Africa and nurturing the next generation of African entrepreneurs.
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: A Literary Luminary
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a name that needs little introduction. The acclaimed author has left an indelible mark on the global literary scene. Her works, like "Half of a Yellow Sun" and "Americanah", offer a compelling view into African society. She's not just a writer; she's a powerful advocate for feminism and social equality.
Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu: From Ethiopia to Global Markets
Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu, founder of SoleRebels, has turned traditional Ethiopian weaving into an internationally recognized footwear brand. She is a shining example of how innovation can flourish when it's rooted in tradition and driven by a deep passion for community upliftment.
Njideka Akunyili Crosby: Reshaping Contemporary Art
Artists often push boundaries, and Njideka Akunyili Crosby is doing just that. Her art, which fuses Nigerian culture with Western influences, has taken the global art scene by storm. Her works have been displayed in prestigious galleries worldwide, showcasing African narratives on an international stage.
These women are just a few of the many African trailblazers changing the world, one industry at a time. They are testament to the power of courage, determination, and innovation. They are the role models for future generations of African women leaders, proving that there's no limit to what African women can achieve.
Stay tuned as we continue to celebrate more inspiring African women leaders across the continent. Their stories are not just their own—they are the stories of Africa, and they are the stories that the world needs to hear.
Tuesday, June 6, 2023
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African Folklore and Its Influence on Black American Literature
In the grand tapestry of human history, stories have always been the threads that weave us together. They entertain us, educate us, and, most importantly, they shape our understanding of the world and our place within it. Nowhere is this more evident than in the enduring influence of African folklore on Black American literature.
Often overlooked, African folklore is a treasure trove of wisdom, mystery, and cultural richness. Its oral traditions, from the enchanting Anansi tales to the enlightening parables of the Bantu, carry the collective wisdom of generations, passed down through time. They reflect a world seen through the lens of African ancestors, a world rich with lessons about life, community, and the human spirit.
When we turn our gaze to Black American literature, the echoes of these ancestral voices are unmistakable. Many Black authors have not just acknowledged but celebrated their African roots, weaving elements of traditional folklore into their narratives. In doing so, they have created a unique literary tradition that reverberates with the rhythms of Africa.
Let's take a journey through a few notable examples.
Zora Neale Hurston's "Their Eyes Were Watching God" is a classic illustration. Drawing heavily on her anthropological research in the South and Caribbean, Hurston laces the novel with African folklore elements, creating a narrative that blends the personal with the mythical.
Toni Morrison’s "Beloved" is another masterpiece where African folklore elements are deeply interwoven. Morrison uses the African concept of Sankofa, looking back to the past to inform the future, as a central theme. It’s a stark exploration of the African American experience, underscored by the haunting legacy of slavery.
Then there’s the work of Ralph Ellison, whose "Invisible Man" incorporates elements of African spirituality and mythology, grounding its exploration of racial and personal identity in a rich cultural heritage.
These authors, and countless others, have tapped into the power of African folklore, using it to express unique perspectives on the Black experience in America. In doing so, they have illuminated the path for future writers, enriching Black American literature with the timeless wisdom of African stories.
In the end, stories are more than just tales. They are bridges spanning time and space, connecting us to our past and guiding us into the future. The influence of African folklore on Black American literature is a testament to this enduring truth: our stories, like our lives, are intertwined. And it's through these shared narratives that we understand not only where we've come from, but also where we're going.
The bridge to Ethiopia carrying Sudan's refugees to safety
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