The removal of a fuel subsidy has pushed the cost of transport out of the reach of many Nigerians.
from BBC News - Africa https://ift.tt/EXFkwda
via Gabe's Musing's
Intro Video
Sunday, September 3, 2023
Sudan conflict: Air strike on Khartoum kills at least 20
Israel: Netanyahu wants immediate deportation of Eritreans after Tel Aviv violence
Heath Streak: Former Zimbabwe captain & coach dies aged 49
Saturday, September 2, 2023
Johannesburg fire: Hijacks and death traps in a crumbling South African city centre
Gabon coup will not end rule by Bongo clan - presidential source
Israel: Police clash with Eritrean asylum seekers
Jet ski Moroccan tourist describes being shot at off Algerian coast
Friday, September 1, 2023
Gabon coup: Military chief says suspension of democracy only 'temporary'
Tabitha Chawinga: Serie A's top goalscorer last season on the adversity she faced in Malawi
Cultural Perspectives: Understanding Matrilineal Societies in Africa
Why are we still wondering who wears the pants in a family when some cultures in Africa have had that figured out for generations? Come dive into an exploration of matrilineal societies in Africa. We might just unearth a lesson or two about power dynamics, culture, and yes, feminism.
You Think You Know Family Structures? Let’s Take a U-Turn
We all know about patriarchy, right? You'd have to be living under a rock, or in a man cave watching endless reruns of "Mad Men," not to. But how often do we take the time to recognize and appreciate societies where women aren't just running the household, but they’re also the ones passing down the lineage? Yeah, you heard that right. In certain African communities, you trace your lineage through your mama, not your papa. That's like Ancestry.com with a Beyoncé soundtrack, ladies and gentlemen!
The Habit That Makes You Rethink Everything
What's a daily habit that could keep this idea in your head? Let's take an easy one—checking your phone. Every time you pick up your device to see if you've got likes, emails, or new LinkedIn connections, remind yourself that somewhere out there, the matriarch is checking in on her clan. Makes you rethink the purpose of power, doesn't it? A powerful woman isn’t a glitch in the system; she is the system.
This Isn't Your Everyday Girl Power—This is Legacy
Now hold on to your seats, because we’re taking it up a notch. Imagine a society where inheritance doesn’t just mean money or land. It means stories, culture, songs, dances, and ancestral wisdom—all flowing through the veins of the women. Feel that rush? That’s excitement mixed with awe. Imagine having a system that’s so plugged into the idea of legacy that every day becomes a celebration of heritage.
The Tale of a Community Where Women Lead the Way
Here’s a story to weave it all together. Meet Nia, an African woman from a matrilineal society. Nia didn't just inherit a house; she inherited a whole culture. She holds the wisdom of her ancestors, understands the land she walks upon, and knows the value of community. One day, Nia ventures into the business world and becomes an entrepreneur. She doesn’t lead with an iron fist but with a nurturing spirit that echoes her culture. Her business thrives not because she’s competing but because she’s contributing. Now, that’s the power of a matrilineal society—a lesson not just for women but for all of humanity.
Summing It All Up
Intrigued? Well, you should be. Matrilineal societies in Africa aren’t just flipping the script; they’re rewriting it. These communities are proof that women are not just side characters but can be the authors of their own tales. So the next time you’re thinking about family structures or roles, remember: in some corners of the world, women have been the backbone for generations. And that, my friends, is a lesson worth learning and a tale worth telling.
Human-Centered Design in Education: Meeting Africa's Real Needs
We've all heard the age-old adage, "Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime." But what if we've been teaching the wrong kind of fishing all along? In the context of African education, it's time to ask ourselves whether we are meeting real needs or just serving up old habits. Buckle up, because you're about for a ride through the riveting realm of Human-Centered Design in Education.
When One Size Does Not Fit All
Let's get this straight: Africa isn't a monolith; it's a mosaic. A blend of languages, cultures, and traditions. Our education system, however, is often a one-size-fits-all affair, churning out graduates like a factory assembly line. Imagine if your shoes were designed by someone who never took the time to measure your feet. That's the kind of discomfort we're talking about here, folks. So why not apply Human-Centered Design (HCD) to education? This is about tailoring the learning experience to the actual needs, aspirations, and contexts of African students. It's like bespoke tailoring, but for the mind!
"Morning Mirror Talk"—A Daily Habit to Keep You Thinking
Now let's get practical. How can you, sitting there scrolling through LinkedIn with your morning coffee, make this concept linger in your mind? Try this: Every morning, as you gaze into the mirror, ask yourself, "What did I learn yesterday that actually mattered?" It sounds silly, but it's a powerful routine. If you find yourself struggling to answer, well, that's a red flag! It means it's time to seek education that resonates with your true needs and potential. This "Morning Mirror Talk" can serve as your daily wake-up call to the urgency of reshaping education in Africa.
The Jaw-Dropping Magic of HCD in Education
Prepare to be blown away! Let's talk about a school where each student is given a problem from their own community to solve as part of their curriculum. We're not talking trigonometry; we're talking about real-world problems like clean water access and sustainable agriculture. Imagine the sense of achievement and community involvement that blooms from such an endeavor. It's like watching a child take their first steps, but on a communal scale. This isn't fantasy; schools employing Human-Centered Design principles are turning these awe-inspiring moments into everyday occurrences.
A Tale of Two Villages
Picture this: two villages in the heart of Africa, each receiving funding for education. One village employs traditional methods, emphasizing rote learning and standardized tests. The other opts for a human-centered approach, engaging students in projects that solve real community problems. Fast forward a few years, and the differences are staggering. The HCD village doesn't just have educated individuals; it has problem solvers, innovators, and engaged citizens. This isn't just education; it's empowerment. And that, my friends, is the compelling narrative of Human-Centered Design in Education: Meeting Africa's Real Needs.
The Psychological Principles of Creating Emotional Connections in Retail
We've all walked into a store and felt something — an emotion, a desire, a connection. What if I told you that this isn't mere coincidence, but the result of meticulously applied psychological principles? Buckle up, because we're about to delve into the invisible but potent world of creating emotional connections in retail. We'll unravel the psychology behind it all, informed by my own experiences as a customer, cursory research, and keen observations.
The Power of Emotion Over Logic
Let's start by shattering a common myth: that consumers are rational beings, making choices solely based on price and quality. No, my friend, we are emotional creatures. Did you know that brands like Apple have thrived not just on the merits of their products, but by crafting a narrative that resonates with our deepest desires for innovation, status, and community? Yes, that's the power of emotion over logic. It's not just about what the product can do; it's about how the product makes you feel.
A Morning Ritual That Defines Retail Psychology
Think about your morning cup of coffee. What emotions come to mind? Comfort, warmth, a sense of routine? That emotional connection is no accident. Retailers like Starbucks have fine-tuned their environments to evoke these feelings. The smell of freshly brewed coffee, the cozy seating, the friendly staff — each element is designed to form an emotional connection that keeps you coming back. Now, every time you sip your morning brew, remember that you're experiencing retail psychology at its finest.
Unleashing the High-Octane Emotions
If you're not already excited about this, you should be. Understanding these psychological principles can be your secret weapon. Imagine walking into a room and immediately knowing why you feel a certain way and how that's affecting your purchasing decisions. It's like having x-ray vision! This is awe-inspiring knowledge, and it's right at your fingertips.
The Emotional Odyssey of My Latest Retail Adventure
Let me share a personal story. I recently walked into a boutique clothing store. The moment I stepped in, I felt an inexplicable sense of aspiration and elegance. As I explored, I realized that the store had mastered the art of creating emotional connections. The layout guided me on a journey from casual to formal wear, echoing a narrative of personal growth and achievement. The background music, the lighting, the way the salesperson greeted me—it was all orchestrated to perfection.
Language as a Weapon: Decoding Multilingual Espionage
In a recent exploration into the labyrinth of intelligence, geopolitics, and ethics, I found myself captivated. The intersections between technology, ethical quandaries, and the global stage were not just fascinating but deeply relevant. With the world at such a crucial pivot point, I felt compelled to share these insights—insights that navigate the nuanced corridors where nations, ethics, and individual narratives intersect.
The Linguistic Key to the Kingdom
When we think of espionage, the first thoughts that often come to mind are clandestine meetings, encrypted messages, and covert operations. But what if I told you that the key to unlocking the secrets of intelligence is, quite literally, the words we speak? The art of language is at the core of every intelligence operation, and it's time we decode the power of multilingual espionage.
The Power of a Morning Routine
Imagine starting your day, not with the latest news or social media feeds, but with a 10-minute exercise in language decoding—a moment where you decipher a news article in a foreign language. This daily practice would not only sharpen your linguistic skills but also enhance your ability to think critically, assess information, and expand your global awareness.
Awe-inspiring Opportunities
The scope and depth of language in espionage are awe-inspiring. It's not just about gathering intelligence; it's about understanding cultural nuances, decoding foreign policies, and interpreting the intentions of international players. This goes far beyond mere translation; it's a linguistic dance that has high stakes for national and international security.
The Narrative Unfolds
Language is not just a tool; it's a weapon—a weapon that's wielded with precision in the murky waters of global intelligence. In an era where information warfare is as critical as armed conflict, language proficiency becomes not just a skill but a vital asset. Through multilingual espionage, we can gain unprecedented access to crucial data, negotiations, and even covert operations, making language the ultimate weapon in modern intelligence.
The Complex Web of Intelligence
As Andrew Bustamante often emphasizes, the field of intelligence is a complex web of recruitment strategies, technological advancements, and personal journeys. Multilingualism plays a significant role in each of these facets. It affects who gets recruited, how technology is used for communication, and the kinds of missions that individuals find themselves involved in.
The Global Chessboard
The rise of China, Russia's influence, and the changing dynamics of the Middle East are shaping the world we live in. In this context, language becomes the linchpin that can tilt the scales of geopolitical power. Intelligence agencies like the CIA, MI6, and Mossad rely heavily on linguistic experts to navigate the complex terrains of international politics.
The Curiosity Factor
As we decode the multiple layers of language in espionage, our curiosity should drive us to dig deeper. What languages are most sought after in intelligence recruitment? How has technology affected the need for human translators? These questions beckon us to explore further, pushing the boundaries of our understanding.
The Grand Tapestry
As the world evolves, so does the landscape of intelligence and geopolitics. Our history has been written in many languages, each contributing to the intricate tapestry that forms our collective narrative. Understanding the role of multilingual espionage in this grand scheme is not just fascinating; it's essential.
Gabon coup: Who is Ali Bongo?
Niger coup: Why won't the US call it a coup?
Thursday, August 31, 2023
Africa's week in pictures: 25 - 31 August
South Africa fire: What are Johannesburg's hijacked buildings?
Johannesburg fire: 'Others jumped too, but they didn't make it'
Johannesburg fire: ‘I’ve never seen anything like this’
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