The South African sprinter says he has taken inspiration from last year's "overwhelming" World Championships.
from BBC News - Africa https://ift.tt/X7cFSvq
via Gabe's Musing's
Intro Video
Wednesday, July 5, 2023
France riots: Fuelled by everyday discrimination
The Impact of Climate Change on Africa: Stories from the Frontlines
Climate change has emerged as one of the most pressing challenges of our time, affecting ecosystems, economies, and societies around the globe. While its impact is felt worldwide, Africa stands at the forefront of this battle, experiencing the harsh realities firsthand. In this blog post, we will delve into the profound impact of climate change on Africa, exploring the stories from the frontlines and shedding light on the urgent need for action.
The Changing Face of Agriculture:
Climate change poses significant threats to Africa's agricultural sector, a lifeline for many communities. Erratic rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, and rising temperatures have disrupted crop cycles, leading to reduced yields and food insecurity. We'll share stories of farmers struggling to adapt and innovative solutions that offer hope for a sustainable future.
Water Scarcity and the Struggle for Clean Water:
Africa's water resources are under severe strain due to climate change. Changing rainfall patterns and increased evaporation rates have led to water scarcity, affecting both rural and urban communities. We'll explore the daily challenges faced by individuals who lack access to clean water, as well as initiatives that promote water conservation and management.
Rising Sea Levels and Coastal Vulnerability:
Africa's extensive coastline is at risk as sea levels rise. Coastal erosion, flooding, and saltwater intrusion threaten communities, ecosystems, and vital infrastructure. Through the stories of coastal residents, we'll highlight the urgent need for coastal resilience strategies and sustainable development practices.
Biodiversity Loss and the Threat to Ecosystems:
Africa is home to some of the world's most diverse ecosystems, but climate change puts this rich biodiversity at risk. We'll delve into the stories of conservationists and indigenous communities working tirelessly to protect endangered species and fragile habitats, emphasizing the interconnectedness between ecosystems and human well-being.
Humanitarian Crises and Climate Refugees:
Climate change exacerbates existing vulnerabilities, leading to humanitarian crises and displacements. We'll shed light on the stories of climate refugees, their struggles to find safety and stability, and the importance of international cooperation in providing support and building resilient communities.
Conclusion:
The impact of climate change on Africa is a harsh reality that demands immediate attention and action. Through the stories from the frontlines, we have witnessed the profound consequences on agriculture, water resources, coastal areas, biodiversity, and human lives. However, amidst these challenges, there is resilience, innovation, and determination to create a sustainable future. It is our collective responsibility to listen, learn, and act, supporting Africa in its fight against climate change and ensuring a better tomorrow for all.
Tuesday, July 4, 2023
Senegal's Macky Sall bows to pressure from Sonko's supporters over third term
Wimbledon 2023: Tunisia's Ons Jabeur through 'pretending to be Ronaldo'
Cricket World Cup 2023: Zimbabwe dream over after Scotland qualifier loss
Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini: I am not poisoned I am well
Monday, July 3, 2023
Senegal President Macky Sall says he won't run for third term
SA women's team row with officials ahead of World Cup
The Influence of African Fashion Designers on International Runways
In the vibrant panorama of the global fashion industry, a wave of creativity is reshaping the landscape. This wave originates from Africa, where a myriad of designers are pushing boundaries, defying stereotypes, and painting the runways with unique expressions of their heritage.
The fashion world is no stranger to African inspiration. From the bold prints of Ankara to the intricate beadwork of Maasai tribes, the continent's diverse traditions have long made their way into Western collections. But recently, there's been a shift. Today, we're not just seeing Africa-inspired designs; we're seeing African designers take center stage.
Designers like Thebe Magugu, Maxhosa by Laduma, and Maki Oh are changing the game. These creative minds are not just borrowing elements from their culture; they're weaving stories, embedding their rich heritage into every stitch, and proudly showcasing it to the world.
Thebe Magugu, the South African prodigy and the first African designer to win the prestigious LVMH Prize, encapsulates this shift. His designs are a fusion of his African roots with a modern aesthetic that resonates globally. His work challenges the norms of what African fashion can be, moving beyond traditional prints and shapes to incorporate contemporary styles and innovative materials.
Maxhosa by Laduma is another name resonating on international runways. Laduma Ngxokolo’s luxury knitwear line celebrates the Xhosa culture while offering a unique take on modern fashion. His designs are a testament to the power of authenticity and the appeal of cultural narratives in fashion.
Maki Oh, led by Nigeria's Amaka Osakwe, is a brand that seamlessly blends traditional African techniques with modern silhouettes. Celebrities like Michelle Obama and Beyoncé have worn her designs, amplifying the reach of her culturally infused fashion statements.
What sets these designers apart is their ability to tell their stories through their work, bringing their unique perspectives to the global fashion narrative. They prove that African fashion is not a monolith, but a diverse collection of ideas, styles, and expressions.
As these African designers rise to prominence, they're not just making a statement; they're initiating a dialogue. They're inviting us to explore new interpretations of elegance, to embrace diversity in design, and to appreciate the rich tapestry of African culture.
The fashion industry is taking note. We're seeing more African designers being featured in major fashion weeks, and more international brands collaborating with them. This recognition is essential, not just for the designers, but for the industry as a whole. As we celebrate and embrace these diverse voices, we enrich the global fashion landscape.
The wave of African creativity on international runways is more than a trend. It's a testament to the power of authentic storytelling in fashion. It's an invitation to celebrate diversity, to challenge our perceptions, and to broaden our understanding of what fashion can be.
In the end, fashion is a form of expression, a way to tell our stories. And the stories from Africa are finding their place in the spotlight, adding a new chapter to the global fashion narrative. Let's keep the conversation going.
Sunday, July 2, 2023
Match of the Day Africa - a new BBC Sounds podcast
Nigeria offers students loans - they want jobs
Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini treated for suspected poisoning - aide
Saturday, July 1, 2023
Load-shedding could switch South Africans off the ANC
Friday, June 30, 2023
Boost for Wagner as Mali shuns UN troops but at what cost?
Black Hair Chronicles: The African Roots of Braiding and Natural Hair Styles
Black hair is a universe unto itself, shaped by a rich tapestry of historical, cultural, and personal narratives. Each coil and twist tells a story; each style is a testament to a legacy that spans continents and centuries. From the intricate braiding techniques to the embrace of natural hair styles, black hair is not just about fashion - it's an embodiment of identity, resilience, and heritage.
In the heart of Africa, hair has always been a significant aspect of identity. Historically, hairstyles were a clear indicator of a person's clan, marital status, age, and even socio-economic status. Hairstyles were a language, unspoken but deeply understood. Intricate braiding techniques, passed down through generations, were not simply about creating eye-catching styles; they were a communal activity, a coming together of women in a circle of storytelling, advice sharing, and bonding.
Braids, in particular, carry a historical significance that is as intricate as their patterns. Braiding, known as 'plaiting' in some African communities, has been an integral part of African culture for over 5,000 years. Cornrows, box braids, and micro braids - these styles that we see adorning the heads of black women today have roots that dig deep into the African soil.
African societies understood the power of hair, and by extension, the power of black women. But with the onset of colonialism and the transatlantic slave trade, this power was threatened. Enslaved Africans were often forced to shave their heads, a brutal act of erasure. Yet, even in the face of such adversity, the resilient spirit of Africans prevailed. They continued to braid their hair, subtly weaving in patterns that served as escape maps, leading the way to freedom.
Fast forward to the 21st century, the natural hair movement has brought a renaissance of these ancient techniques. Black women across the globe are rejecting the pressure to conform to Western hair standards, choosing instead to embrace their natural textures. Afro, twist-outs, Bantu knots, and locs - these styles are a celebration of black beauty in its natural form, a reclamation of identity, and a nod to their roots.
The journey of black hair is a journey of resilience, resistance, and return. It's a narrative of black women standing tall, their heads adorned with crowns of curls and coils, each strand interwoven with stories of the past and dreams of the future. As we bask in the beauty of black hair, let us not forget the rich African roots that nourish it.
For every braid pattern that graces our heads, every afro that stands tall and proud, and every natural hair style that defies gravity, we remember. We remember the African roots of our hair journey, the strength of our ancestors, and the power that lies at the roots of our hair - the power of being unapologetically Black.
Tour de France 2023: Smiling Girmay can be 'symbol' for Africa
Thursday, June 29, 2023
Embracing Evolving Market Trends: Strategic Insights and Opportunities for BabaYao Investment Fund Investors
Dear Valued Investor,
We hope this letter finds you well. We are writing to provide you with our latest market insights and strategic recommendations, based on recent demographic trends and data in the US stock market.
Firstly, we have observed a significant increase in the participation of younger investors in the market. There’s been a meaningful influx of retail investors, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, since 2020. The new wave, often referred to as “Generation Investor,” is optimistic about the future of the stock market, with a considerable proportion intending to increase their investments. This trend is expected to continue in the short term, and we believe it could present a unique opportunity for companies that cater to this demographic.
Given this younger generation’s familiarity with technology and openness to innovation, we suggest a strategic tilt towards companies in the technology sector and those with significant growth potential in the renewable energy space. These sectors are well-positioned to capitalize on the new generation’s risk tolerance and interest in high-growth opportunities.
In the long term, our research suggests a potential shift towards more sustainable and long-term investment strategies. Fewer new investors are focused on short-term earnings compared to 2020, indicating a trend towards long-term investment. This evolving dynamic could create opportunities for investments in index funds and blue-chip stocks that offer steady, long-term growth.
Moreover, as the new wave of investors matures and gains more financial knowledge, they are likely to seek diversification in their portfolios. We believe this could spur increased interest in various asset classes, including bonds, real estate, and international stocks, thereby presenting opportunities for well-diversified funds.
One key trend we anticipate in the long term is the growing demand for ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investments. Given the social and environmental awareness of Millennials and Gen Z, companies with strong ESG policies and practices may benefit from increased investment interest.
Lastly, as retirement planning becomes more relevant for these younger investors, we see a potential increase in contributions to retirement accounts and a greater demand for retirement planning services.
We at BabaYao Investment Fund believe in staying ahead of market trends and positioning our portfolio to seize emerging opportunities. Based on our analysis of these demographic and market trends, we will continue to diversify our portfolio and prioritize investments that align with these shifts.
Please remember that investing in the stock market always carries risk, and it’s important to consider your personal financial situation and risk tolerance before making investment decisions. We encourage you to reach out to us if you have any questions or need further guidance.
Thank you for your continued trust in BabaYao Investment Fund. We look forward to navigating these exciting opportunities together.
Best Regards,
G Mahia | CIO | BabaYao Investment Fund
We hope this letter finds you well. We are writing to provide you with our latest market insights and strategic recommendations, based on recent demographic trends and data in the US stock market.
Firstly, we have observed a significant increase in the participation of younger investors in the market. There’s been a meaningful influx of retail investors, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, since 2020. The new wave, often referred to as “Generation Investor,” is optimistic about the future of the stock market, with a considerable proportion intending to increase their investments. This trend is expected to continue in the short term, and we believe it could present a unique opportunity for companies that cater to this demographic.
Given this younger generation’s familiarity with technology and openness to innovation, we suggest a strategic tilt towards companies in the technology sector and those with significant growth potential in the renewable energy space. These sectors are well-positioned to capitalize on the new generation’s risk tolerance and interest in high-growth opportunities.
In the long term, our research suggests a potential shift towards more sustainable and long-term investment strategies. Fewer new investors are focused on short-term earnings compared to 2020, indicating a trend towards long-term investment. This evolving dynamic could create opportunities for investments in index funds and blue-chip stocks that offer steady, long-term growth.
Moreover, as the new wave of investors matures and gains more financial knowledge, they are likely to seek diversification in their portfolios. We believe this could spur increased interest in various asset classes, including bonds, real estate, and international stocks, thereby presenting opportunities for well-diversified funds.
One key trend we anticipate in the long term is the growing demand for ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investments. Given the social and environmental awareness of Millennials and Gen Z, companies with strong ESG policies and practices may benefit from increased investment interest.
Lastly, as retirement planning becomes more relevant for these younger investors, we see a potential increase in contributions to retirement accounts and a greater demand for retirement planning services.
We at BabaYao Investment Fund believe in staying ahead of market trends and positioning our portfolio to seize emerging opportunities. Based on our analysis of these demographic and market trends, we will continue to diversify our portfolio and prioritize investments that align with these shifts.
Please remember that investing in the stock market always carries risk, and it’s important to consider your personal financial situation and risk tolerance before making investment decisions. We encourage you to reach out to us if you have any questions or need further guidance.
Thank you for your continued trust in BabaYao Investment Fund. We look forward to navigating these exciting opportunities together.
Best Regards,
G Mahia | CIO | BabaYao Investment Fund
African Culinary Fusion: How Immigrants are Transforming America's Food Scene
In the grand tapestry of America’s food scene, a new thread is weaving its way in, adding a vibrant dash of color that is impossible to ignore. This thread, spun from the rich and diverse culinary traditions of Africa, is redefining our collective palate, one plate at a time.
Imagine the bustling kitchens of New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles. The air filled with the smell of frying plantains, the sizzle of suya kebabs on the grill, and the warming aroma of berbere spice wafting from a simmering pot of doro wat. This is the reality of today's American culinary landscape, and it's a testament to the transformative influence of African immigrants on our food culture.
Why does this matter? Because food, in its essence, is a storyteller. Each dish tells a tale of history, culture, and identity, and these African-infused narratives are enhancing America's culinary storybook with chapters that have been waiting to be shared.
African immigrants have not only brought their traditional recipes to America but have also masterfully fused them with American flavors, creating a culinary crossover that excites the senses. Take jollof rice, a quintessential West African dish. In American kitchens, this flavorful one-pot meal finds companions in locally sourced ingredients such as Cajun sausage or Creole spices, creating a jollof fusion that harmonizes the best of both continents.
Or consider the rise of Afro-veganism, which combines the plant-based ethos of veganism with the rich, wholesome tradition of African cuisine. By emphasizing grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables, Afro-vegan dishes like Ethiopian lentil stews or Moroccan vegetable tagines are not just delicious, they're contributing to a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle.
And let's not forget about the impact on the restaurant scene. From food trucks offering Senegalese thieboudienne in Seattle, to Michelin-starred establishments serving gourmet versions of South African bunny chow in Manhattan, African cuisine is claiming its rightful place in the American food industry.
In transforming the American food scene, African immigrants are doing more than just tantalizing our taste buds. They are creating a platform for cultural exchange, fostering a sense of community, and challenging our understanding of what American food can be.
So, the next time you sit down to enjoy a bowl of Eritrean shiro or a Nigerian meat pie, remember that you're not just satisfying your hunger. You're participating in a culinary revolution, a delicious testament to the power of diversity and the universal language of food.
Wednesday, June 28, 2023
Artificial intelligence in Africa: Should we be wary?
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