FLYafrica Magazine, Issue 13

YOUR COMPLIMENTARY COPY

Touching Africa, Touching The World!

FLYafrica Rising Starr ISSUE 13

MARCH - MAY 2022

ARYA STARR AND MORE MUSICIANS TO LOOK OUT FOR IN 2022

PAGE 20

THE ART OF CECILIA LAMPTEYBOTCHWAY

STAR DESTINATION

ACCRA

AN INSIDER’S GUIDE

PAGE 28

THE TEAM CARING FOR OUR CROCS

Contents PAGE 28

CROCODILES

Conservation in Ghana

Africa World Airlines (AWA) Head Office - UNA Homes Building 2nd/3rd floor Airport Bypass Road Airport City Road PMB CT67 Accra, Ghana Tel: +233 24 243 8888 Toll Free: 0800 200 200 Email: awaoffice@flyafricaworld.com www.flyafricaworld.com FLYafrica Magazine is published for Africa World Airlines by: Land & Marine Publications Ltd 1 Kings Court, Newcomen Way Severalls Business Park Colchester, Essex CO4 9RA United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)1206 752902 www.landmarine.com ADVERTISING: Email: flyafrica@landmarine.org Anita Ottenhof Cell: +233 542 476 370 (WhatsApp) Email: corehospitalitygh@gmail.com

Regulars

Features

3

Foreword

8

STARdestination

14 iREP Documentary Film Festival

4 6

A message from our CEO

Accra

Hopes for 2022

West Africans look to the future

Nigerian festival celebrates the best of new documentary films

theAWAlist

18 How to stick to your goals

The people and places making an impact

Our life coach shares her strategies

12 Ghanaiangifts

20 Beauty in defiance

24 WINafrica

26 Adventures in the Volta Region

The art of Cecilia Lamptey-Botchway

New year, new you

FLYafrica competition

Explorer Selorm Sosu experiences a Ewe ‘outdooring’ ceremony

25 PUZZLEpage

28 Coming to the aid of crocodiles

Wellington Jghere’s Scrabble teaser

Efforts to save revered but rare populations

32 Musicians to look out for in 2022

38 LIVEafrica

Tastemakers Harmattan Rain’s hot-list

Accra by neighbourhoods

36 Eat to the beat

How dining and events space Palm Moments became an Accra favourite

Aaron Daunor Cell: +233 24 346 7506 Email: aarondaunor@landmarine.com EDITORIAL: Mark Edwards, Editor markedwards@landmarine.com The contents and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor, or any other organisation associated with this publication. While every care is taken to ensure accuracy in preparing the magazine, the Publisher and Africa World Airlines assume no responsibility or liability for any inaccuracies or omissions. All submitted material is accepted on the understanding that the material can be edited, amended or abridged for publication. ©2021 Land & Marine Publications Ltd.

AWA Information 6

theAWAlist

41 AWAroutes

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42 TRAVELinformation 44 AWAcontacts

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1

Foreword

Welcome

Connect with AWA Facebook

www.facebook.com/ flyafricaworld

Twitter

A DECADE OF DEDICATION

@flyafricaworld

Instagram

@flyafricaworld

Dear passenger, It gives me great pleasure to welcome you onboard your flight today.

Thank you for choosing Africa World Airlines.

Another year has begun, bringing with it fresh opportunities to aspire and attain greater goals. This year, 2022, marks a significant milestone for AWA: we will be celebrating our 10th anniversary. On 21st September 2012, we launched our very first commercial flight, and since then we have soared. We are extremely proud to be among a select few regional airlines to achieve such a feat. We express our heartfelt gratitude to all of our patrons and partners for supporting us over the decade. We wouldn’t have been able to do it without you. We anticipate a lineup of special events to commemorate the occasion, including a commemorative issue of FLYAfrica magazine.

Image courtesy of Arya Starr

We continue to expand our frequencies, not only inside Ghana but also to major cities in Nigeria. Our commitment to quality service delivery was recently recognized by the NCAA, earning us the top spot amongst international carriers in Nigeria. We gladly accept this honor and challenge to become better with each flying day. Each of our valued passengers will be served with the same attention and expertise that has earned AWA the title of CIMG Best Domestic Airline in Ghana every year since 2015.

I wish you a good new year on behalf of AWA, and may it bring you amazing opportunities.

Michael C. Luo Chief Executive Officer, Africa World Airlines

Book online

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3

STAR DESTINATION

Accra

4

Felix Lipov / Shutterstock.com

Truba7113 / Shutterstock.com

As the hub of AWA’s operations we have always loved Accra, but Ghana’s capital is now regarded as one of the coolest and most creative on the continent. The friendly and relaxed city is attracting professionals back from across the diaspora, resulting in plenty of investment and thriving food, art and music scenes. All this and it’s just moments from the beach. Here’s a guide on where to start with your Accra adventure.

RELAX Kokrobite Beach views

always interesting schedule of

AWA’s hub, there are frequent

shows. More performing arts can

connections between Accra

be found at the National Theatre

and our entire network of

of Ghana – within its striking

destinations – Kumasi, Tamale,

ship-shaped main auditorium –

Takoradi, Lagos, Abuja,

and the Alliance Francaise.

Freetown and Monrovia. Visit flyafricaworld.com, call toll-free on 0800-200-200 or use our mobile app to book a flight.

SEE: New towering modern

DO: There is a contemporary art boom going on in Accra with a new generation of talent getting their work displayed across the city. Jamestown,

hotels, residential spaces and

with its vibrant community and

commercial complexes are

fascinating history, has been at

springing up in Accra all the time,

the heart of the movement with

but few can match the rooftop

new work on display at galleries

views of the SkyBar in the

Accra (dot) Alt and ArchiAfrika,

Villagio Vista complex. Here you

while the whole town becomes

can take in panoramic views over

a canvas for the unmissable

the city and out to the Atlantic

Chale Wote Street Art Festival

Ocean while sipping drinks –

every August. A very different

be warned the prices are also

viewing atmosphere is provided

fittingly sky high – by the pool.

at the 1957 Gallery, which is

If you’d rather get a grip on the city at ground level, a bike tour is a fun and informative way to do it. Check out Go City Cycle Tours. Its night rides – complete with neon tube-lit bikes and boombox-carrying guide – are especially recommended.

Another way to soak up the city’s bustle is a trip to Makola Market. You can buy just about anything at this chaotic, but welcoming hub of commerce.

If your retail taste runs to haute couture rather than haggling, head for boutiques such as The Lotte or The Shop Accra by Eyetsa, which showcase crafts and clothes by some of Ghana’s leading creatives. More work by local designers can be found at the monthly flea markets at Terra Alta, a new dance and drama

Danilo Marocchi / Shutterstock.com

space in the city that has an

found inside the city’s exclusive Kempinski Hotel. Also check out the Nubuke Foundation in East Legon, which exhibits work by emerging and established African artists (see the feature on Cecilia Lamptey-Botchway in this issue of FLYafrica), and the Nordor Gallery, which supports the work of rising local talent with its annual artist residency – the first of its kind in the country.

Those after some fresh air and physical thrills could take a short trip into the Aburi Hills, where you’ll find a tranquility unmatched at the Botanical Gardens and a latticework of trails to explore on bike tours or on foot.

EAT: Whether you are after street food treats at a chop bar

Image courtesy of Noldor

FLY: Fly: With Kotoka International Airport serving as

or fine dining at an exclusive restaurant, Accra is a foodies’ delight. If you want to get a flavour of some local cuisine while hanging with Accra’s cool crowd head to The Living Room in East Legon or Republic Bar & Grill, which entertains diners and drinkers with regular live music shows.

SLEEP: There are plenty of options for stylish places to stay here. The Labadi Beach Hotel is just a few miles from the city centre, but also gives guests private access to Accra’s most pristine stretch of coast and the chance to sunbathe, swim and dance to sand-shaking sound systems as the sun sinks into the Atlantic. A more urban experience is available at No.1 Oxford Street. The Jenga-like hotel and suites is a striking new addition to the city’s entertainment strip in Osu and offers classy accommodation in the heart of Accra.

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theAWAlist The people and places making an impact across the AWA network

Touching Africa, Touching The World!

6

See

Images: Nii Odartey Aryee

Accra has its own skatepark!

December 15 saw the official opening of Freedom Skatepark in Shiashie, East Legon, with Surf Ghana – a board sports collective that had a lead role in campaigning for the park and the crowdfunding scheme to finance it – hosting an open day amid the ramps, bowls and rails with activities including workshops, events and skate lessons.

The project is a collaborative venture between Limbo Accra, Surf Ghana, Daily Paper, Saloni Parekh, Hive Earth, Wonders Around the World, and the late US fashion designer Virgil Abloh. The undulating urban green space was designed by Limbo Accra, the Ghana spatial studio acclaimed for its renovating and repurposing of disused buildings in the capital. Its aim was to create a sustainable, adaptable space to unite people and give them a sense of civic responsibility and pride. The park is open to all from 9am to 7pm on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays and from 9am to 11pm on Friday and Sundays. It is closed on Mondays.

Celebrate!

On January 14 Nigerian-Canadian athlete Simidele Adeagbo made history, becoming the first African athlete to win a gold medal in an international bobsled or skeleton race when she topped the podium at the Europe Cup monobob race in Winterberg, Germany.

The athlete – who was born to Nigerian parents and spent much of her early childhood in the country – is no stranger to the record books as she is Nigeria and Africa’s first female skeleton athlete as well as the first black female Olympian in the scary sport, in which competitors ride head-first on a flat sled at speeds of up to 130 km per hour. Adeagbo achieved her personal best down and push start times at the Winterberg course to claim the gold. It was such an unexpected victory that the organisers didn’t have a Nigerian flag or the national anthem for the awards ceremony. Luckily, as Adeagbo pointed out on her Twitter page (@simisleighs), she had her own flag. “No matter how unexpected my victory may have been for some, it was a shining moment in which my dream became a reality. I’m paving a pathway to hope,” she said. However, Simidele’s Winterberg success was not enough to get her to the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. She missed qualification by one spot so there is no African athlete in the sliding sports this year.

Stream

Do you remember that wheelbarrow chase scene in the trailer for new Marvel film ‘Extraction’ or that bit in ‘Thunder Force’ when the superheroine pics up an old mattress to show her strength?

No? Maybe you’re not watching the versions I am. The Ikorodu Bois are a group of ingenious action movie-loving youngsters from the Lagos suburb who post their own impressive remakes of the trailers to their favourite movies. Head to their Facebook page and you’ll see their versions of Netflix hit ‘Money Heist’, zombie thriller ‘Army of the Dead’ and a version of ‘Squid Game’ that is even more disturbing than the original. Brothers Muiz and Malik Sanni and their cousin Fawas Aina – all barely in their teens – throw themselves (quite literally) into their roles with some impressive stunts while twenty-something older brother Babatunde skilfully edits the footage. Each film is recreated on the streets of Ikorodu with an innovative range of props, including a fleet of toy cars, guns made from sticks and an impressive array of wigs. Word is spreading. Star of ‘Extraction’ Chris Hemsworth went on social media to claim the Bois’ version “might be better than the original” and the film’s producers flew the boys to its US premiere. Check them out now @ikorodub.

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7

WEST AFRICANS SHARE HOPES FOR

‘20PlentyTwo’

We asked some notable West African names to share their hopes for 2022 and got some inspirational responses, ranging from personal goals and wishes for the world to shout outs to emerging talents set for their big break this year.

Stonebwoy

Roberta Dawson-Amoah

Ghanaian singer and CEO of Burniton Music.

Director of Ghana Tourism Authority.

“This year for me is 20PlentyTwo as opposed to 2022, In this new year I pray for good health, more prosperity, heightened protection and finally global domination and continued direction with my music.”

8

“Each new year presents us with a unique opportunity to reset every aspect of our lives. As we start 2022, it is important that we remain resolute in our commitment to achieving whatever it is that we want to achieve. The idea is to keep focused and remain hopeful despite the challenges

occasioned by Covid-19. In doing so, let’s strive to keep a balance between our work and personal life with the ultimate goal of excelling in our various fields of endeavour. It’s a new year, and a new opportunity to be hopeful. Remember, the rest of the days ahead look beautiful.”

Gyakie

Image: Gyakie and Jackie Acheampong

Ghanaian singer-songwriter whose debut EP ‘Seed’ was released in 2021.

“It’s been an amazing and crazy 2021. But for 2022, I look forward to an advancement in Ghanaian music and to have the world pay attention to the sound and enjoy from their heart.

Also, I’m hoping to give the world songs that will fill their heart with joy and heighten their spirit positively.”

Joshua Odamtten Founder of Accra-based skateboarding collective Skate Nation.

“My new year’s resolution is to get sponsored so I will be able to support my local community to have a group that can travel around other parts of my country Ghana to teach the youth and kids how to skate and help them develop an active lifestyle.”

German-Ghanaian singersongwriter who returned to live in Accra in 2018. Latest singles include ‘What’s Good?’ and ‘The Way’ a collaboration with celebrated UK electro artist Matthew Herbert.

“In my humble opinion, it is punk and avant-garde to not pretend as if you are having the time of your life. That’s where alignment and wellbeing begins: with the realisation that some things can’t stay the way they were. And maybe that’s a good thing. New questions are being asked by the minute.

Answers are rarely given. For some of us the holidays come with the horror. The horror of facing the very things that we didn’t allow to surface throughout the past two years.

Some of us were separated from family/loved ones, some

of us got sick, some of us lost friends, family members, some of us had to drastically change their life to survive in this new world. I’m proud of everyone who chooses reflection over deflection. Well done. Continue to ask questions. Remain uncomfortable to be around in 2022.”

Image: Jhey Too Cool

Image: Zylofon Media

Y’akoto

FLYafrica

9

Ekow Anderson

Wellington Jghere

Becca

Operations Manager of the Ghana Music Awards UK that champions the Ghanaian music industry at home and abroad.

Nigerian Scrabble player who was crowned World Champion in 2015.

Ghana singer, songwriter and actress.

“The year 2021 was challenging but we were able to overcome all odds and make one of the best awards shows in the United Kingdom happen. This year we hope to move the awards to the next level and I encourage all musicians to put in more work to overcome the situation in which we find ourselves. “On behalf of the board, management and academy members, I wish to say thank you to our media partners, sponsors, content curators, artistes and all Ghanaian musicians in Ghana, the UK, Europe and across the globe for their support. I wish them nothing but the best and prosperous new year.”

“We are all familiar with the ‘New year, new me’ mantra.

Well, I love the old me!

Looking back at my life, I can’t but admire the man I used to be. While some areas of my life have experienced tangible improvements, I have also noticed some substantial decline in some of the virtues and qualities that made me, me. In light of that, my number one goal going forward is to work on restoring the OLD ME while making a few improvements here and there to yield a Wellington that I can even be more proud of. My love life especially could make do with some improvements.

“I also intend to put in some more work so as to possibly push the frontiers of what’s achievable in my chosen field.”

Femi Odugbemi Nigerian filmmaker, writer and producer.

“To be alive and healthy in 2022 challenges me to pursue work that is not only successful but significant. [This year] I want to tell more stories that inspire audiences towards how we create more inclusive societies and address limitations that underprivileged people suffer in our continent. I want to speak louder and more boldly in my work against all narratives that entrench stereotypes. This year I am going to be intentional about seizing every opportunity to only do work that matters.”

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“First, I would like to thank AWA for the commitment to excellence within Ghana and across your regional flights. I doubt if there is any airline in the world that can boast of flying more Afrobeats artists like myself. It is the ‘official Afrobeats airline’. This year, my hope is to see a vibrant and more promising Ghana. [Our country] is fast becoming the new Mecca of Africa and growing in tourism. It is my hope that our infrastructure matches the growth and development to solidify our position.”

Oppong De-Graft Amponsah CEO of events management company Legendary Ghana Consult.

Image: Velma Owusu-Bempah

“We are optimistic about 2022 considering how much we been able to achieve in recent years even with Covid especially affecting the creative and entertainment business. We have had to come out with innovative ways of marketing to bridge the gap between us and the outside world. We have also researched into maximising the potential of our industry and have come up with programmes we believe will benefit most players in the entertainment, night life and creative industries in Ghana. This country has become a prime holiday and tourism destination with Africa World Airlines playing a predominant role. I believe 2022 will be where we triumph over major challenges and overcome our fears.”

Kofi Ayeh Akrofi

Velma Owusu-Bempah

Creative Director of award-winning

Creative director of Velma’s Millinery and Accessories and the principal of

marketing agency Social Ghana.

Velma’s Academy.

“As a creative, my hope has always been that creatives in our subregion are given a platform, not just for the sake of it, but to make an impact. Going into this year, my hope is that creatives will be given more involvement in the country’s problem-solving activities. Creativity is intelligence having fun and solving problems.”

“2021 was quite a challenging one but it also came with a lot of victories that I’m thankful for. As a wife, mother, sister, daughter and businesswoman, I learnt to be more present, kinder to myself and create memories with the ones I love. In 2022, I believe God and the universe has given all of us a clean slate to rewrite this new chapter of our lives. Let this year be the year where you

seek progress rather than perfection. The season when you enjoy and savour every moment. It should be the year where you meet every challenge with bravery, grit and tenacity. Whenever you hit a roadblock this year, sit, relax, pause, reflect and re-strategize, it’s the only way you can win in life. And most importantly, share your love with the world, it’ll make the earth a better place.”

FLYafrica

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GHANAIAN gifts New year, new you It’s always nice to shower your family and friends with gifts, but in 2022 make sure you take some time to spoil another special someone – yourself. Nathan Tollo has some amazing gift ideas to help you on your self-care journey.

LUXURY BATHROBES HEADPHONES

Taking time to soothe away the stresses of the day with a hot bath (complete with meditative music and scented oils) is an indulgent treat. To complete the at-home luxury spa experience, add a luxurious bathrobe for before and after you take your restorative dip.

You can block out all the unnecessary noise and distractions of the outside with the Custom made Berluti Beoplay H95. Whether you are listening to uplifting music, checking out the latest podcast and following a guided meditation, these headphones have 38 hours of playtime even with active noise control turned on. Cool, right?

Where to buy: @Lotusgallery on Instagram

Where to buy: Pre-order via @luxury_giftings

SELF-CARE JOURNAL There will be some tough days in your selfcare journey. To help you surmount storms and overcome the tasks of each day, we recommend the self-care journal for the good and bad days to help you write down your feelings and give meaning to them. Not forgetting the section for planning and gratitude as well.

Where to buy: Amazon

CUSTOMISED MUGS, BOTTLES AND GLASSES Starting your day with a mug that has your name on it or a catchy inspirational message is just the push you need to help you achieve success in the new year. You can also get a glass if you are a wine person or a water bottle if you are starting a detox regiment or on a fitness plan.

Where to buy: @glugmugs on Instagram

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CANDLES Did you know burning scented candles is one way to hack your happy hormones? This Paris-inspired candle curated by fashion and beauty guru Sacha Okoh has notes of pomegranate and plumeria.

Where to buy: @bysachaokoh

DARK CHOCOLATE Munching on chocolate is a great way to boost your body’s defences with antioxidants, vitamins and natural minerals. It also tastes amazing. As the home of cocoa, Ghana has an amazing assortment of chocolate brands to choose from. We are very taken with the Midunu truffle collection. Its flavours are named after African women and that’s pretty woke.

Where to buy: @midunuchocolates

SKIN CARE KIT Devoting intentional time to taking care of your skin is one of the best gifts you can offer to yourself in 2022. This stylish Adinkra-labelled gift set includes Ghanaian favourites shea butter in its moisturiser and black soap. A great way to honour your body.

Where to buy: @kaeme

ART PRINT These portraits by Ghanaian photographer and re-toucher Josh Sisly really capture the soul of their subjects.

The striking black and white studies will look great in your home, and each has a depth to send you on a journey of self-introspection.

Where to buy: @ovarhharvo on Instagram

COOKBOOK Cooking is an act of joy and gives you a real sense of accomplishment. The African cookbook offers thousands of recipes from the continent to inspire you in the kitchen. Who knows, maybe it could kickstart your own culinary career.

3D LAMP

Where to buy: Amazon

Where to buy: @lamps_home on Instagram

Arranging Intimate mood lighting in your home can help you relax and calm our soul. This pleasing wooden design is also eco-friendly and will give your space an upscale touch.

FLYafrica

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iREP Documentary Film Festival

What’s up, docs?

Nigerian festival celebrates the best of new documentary films

THE POWER OF TRUTH Festival co-founder Femi Odugbemi

14

The 12th iREP Documentary Film Festival in March arrives at a time when the genre has never been more popular. Its co-founder, Femi Odugbemi, reveals how the event encourages African creatives to embrace the power of fact-based films.

Documentary film is the ultimate ‘agent provocateur’,” Femi Odugbemi tells me.

“It occupies that nexus between fact, opinion and point of view and offers narratives that document and open up new spaces, inspire new ideas and create social movements.”

In a glittering career, the director, writer and producer has embraced the power of factbased films to shake the system and lift the lid on real-life issues in Nigeria. His work includes ‘Bariga Boys’, a multiple award-winning documentary about street performers in Lagos; ‘Literature, Language and Literalism’ about the late Nigerian writer Daniel O

NETWORK The festival is a chance for creative to exchange ideas and collaborate

Fagunwa; and just last year the acclaimed ‘Unmasked: Leadership, Trust and the Covid-19 Pandemic in Nigeria’.

Along the way, the Lagos-born Odugbemi has championed the independent filmmaking spirit and encouraged more young African creatives to understand and embrace the power of documentary to speak truth to power. In 2010, he co-founded the iRepresent (iREP) International Documentary Film Festival in Lagos to showcase films and stories by Africans about Africa.

Unique opportunity It has gone on to become the largest festival of its kind on the

continent and marks its twelfth year this March. Odugbemi believes the festival plays a vital role in giving Africans an avenue to make a difference in their collective future.

“We founded the iREP Documentary Film Festival because we believed that the creative revolution in Nigeria and many other countries in Africa, provides a unique opportunity for documentary filmmaking,” he says.

“If we can encourage the young creatives to understand and embrace its power, then its impact could strengthen our democracies and bring accountability to many areas of governance and development. Delightfully, that is exactly what is already happening in Nigeria and many countries across the continent. More and more young people are using documentary film to interrogate the realities of their experiences in ways that are demanding answers from leaders in government institutions and civil society. They are using documentary film to explore important development issues like education, healthcare, the environment, technology and many other areas of their life experiences.”

‘Unfiltered’ theme Each year the festival, which runs this year from March 17 to March 20, has a theme for submitted

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films and in 2022 it is ‘Unfiltered:

that decides on the nominations

African Stories, Stories from

for the ‘Oscars’ awards, antici-

Africa’. Odugbemi explains that

pates this will once again result in

the emphasis is on stories that

a global spread of entrants.

portray the truth beyond the international media gaze that can be guilty of fetishizing Africa as merely poverty, unrest and fearsome nature.

“The visions of Africa that still sustain in many places are ones captured in the stories of National Geographic magazines - a jungle reeking of great dangers and lacking civilization. These are the ‘stories of Africa’ nurtured by some global news organisations, and it has permanently marred the name of the continent with wars, disease, poverty and instability. Yet the truth of the ‘African story’ today is different.

It is by no means perfect but there is emerging a new order, identifying new voices and new leaders, propagating new values of creativity, enterprise, transparency, fair competition, social justice and economic empowerment. It is a revolution of significance that should bring optimism and pride about Africa’s future.

We have needed to tell our stories to counter the one-dimensional understanding of the continent.”

Last year’s festival was conducted virtually due to the pandemic.

However, partnering for the first time with the US-based African World Documentary Film Festival (AWDFF) meant the event attracted an unprecedented span of international filmmakers from 26 countries across five continents. This year is a hybrid event with films online as well as physical screenings in and around Lagos. Odugbemi, who has become such a name in world cinema he was made a voting member of The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences 16

Growing audience “The 2021 virtual festival brought a new diverse and far-reaching audience to the iREP experience,” he says. “The festival has hosted many prominent European filmmakers and we have also had films and filmmakers from across North and South America, the UK and the Caribbean. However, through the AWDFF collaboration in San Diego, California, we reached a wide audience of students and faculty in several universities. We had close to

SPEECH Filmmaker Dr Joanna Lipper

5,000 participants over four days of the online festival. We want to keep that reach and build on it.

We will once again be partnering the AWDFF for the 2022 festival. However, Covid protocols permitting we hope to also screen films at our traditional venues like the amphitheatre at the Freedom Park in Broad Street, Lagos, the Nigeria Film Corporation Cinema hall in Ikoyi and possibly one or two other smaller venues on the Lagos mainland.

Four days in Lagos While the growing international reach of the festival is impressive, Lagos remains its focal point.

SCREENING Crowds watch in Lagos

Odugbemi is proud that Nigerians will get the chance to see eye-opening films at screenings in the capital – including the famous Cora Art Stampede held on the final night of open-air performances at Freedom Park. There will be chances to catch some of the best films beyond the run of the festival.

Deliberately, iREP does not give a best film prize, but films that go down well with audiences are catalogued and screened at the monthly iREPxchange programme to more people the chance to see them. During the four days of the festival creatives can attend workshops and network events to discuss

and out-of-control rolling news cycles. Odugbemi, however, is more sanguine, believing that we now all have the tools to document our rapidly changing worlds.

‘Exciting times’

Odugbemi is proud that Nigerians will get the chance to see eye-opening films at screenings in the capital opportunities for collaborations and co-productions.

Odugbemi, who was awarded the prestigious Rock of Fame Lifetime Achievement award by The Nigeria Film Corporation in 2018, also feels it is fitting that iREP is hosted by a city that has such a world-renowned legacy of independent, unvarnished filmmaking. “Nollywood, in its guerrilla drama and imperfect storytelling, provides a cinema culture that has documented the African story with far more

balance and authenticity,” he says.

While Nollywood has become a multi-billion-dollar industry, documentary films are also enjoying a boom. Streaming services such as Netflix and Apple TV pack their content with them to satisfy viewers relishing the opportunity to take a deep dive into subjects. The attraction of these long form documentaries in which the truth is forensically revealed with facts is seen as an antidote to the stream of ‘alternative facts’ on social media

NOLLYWOOD Femi believes the health of independent cinema in Lagos makes it a fitting home for the festival

“I think documentary’s power to help us understand our realities better and what is ‘truth’ is a vital and urgent need in Nigeria especially with our large and restless population. Today everything happens at the speed of light fast foods, fast cars, fast communication, fast marriages! All human experiences, (social political and economic) are moving at a rapid pace requiring not only perspectives but individual interpretations of their meaning and impact.

Thankfully the ‘accessibility’ of media technology and online digital spaces has created the opportunity and tools for all of us to not only document our ‘reality’ as it happens but to broadcast and distribute globally.”

Documentaries have never been so popular and iREP is here to reflect that. “We are living in exciting times and documentary films are at the centre of it!” says Odugbemi.

Schedule The programme of presentations and panel discussions will be held online. Visit the website irepfilmfestival.com

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New year, new you

How to stick to your goals

A new year has arrived and with it millions of us are resolving to get fit, find their dream job or master a new skill. Unfortunately, almost as many of us will fail to see these goals through or perhaps never start at all. How then can we make it happen? With the help of Ghanaian life coach Nana Amoako-Anin, FLYafrica editor Mark Edwards provides some simple strategies for sticking to the task. We also provide inspiration for some very achievable goals – 22 for 2022, in fact – to get you started.

M

y new year’s resolution for 2022

confident I would spend my time holding

finding out that, no matter how those crazy

is to learn to speak French with

court in a café on the Left Bank of the Seine,

French pronounce his name, he was not once

a fluency that means I can chat

dazzling the cool clientele with my knowl-

portrayed in cinemas by Sylvester Stallone in

freely with the locals the next time I visit

edge of the finer points of Rimbaud’s poetry

his 1980s chiselled pomp.

one of my favourite countries (besides

in flawless French. However, the reality

Ghana, of course). However, my confidence

was my French was barely up to asking for

make such a mess of it as me, I am certainly

that I will achieve this is undermined by the

directions to the café and delivered in such

not alone in falling short of my goals for self-

fact that this was also my resolution at the

an unschooled accent that I was often met

improvement. So, what is to be done? How

start of 2021 and, indeed, each year since

with just a Gallic shrug of incomprehension

can you set goals that give you a chance

around 2015.

or, even more galling, a response in perfect

of achieving them and how do you guard

English. I should also, in retrospect, have

against procrastination and perfectionism

done more research on Rimbaud beyond

scuppering your good intentions?

Last year, I really thought I was making some progress and booked a trip to Paris,

18

Though I imagine most people wouldn’t

energy to actually get going with our resolu-

energy needed to keep at it. For example,

of Accra’s Bliss Yoga and FLYafrica regular

Luckily, you and I have life coach, founder

tion. The first step of a journey is the most

your goal could be to lose 10kg in weight,

contributor Nana Amoako-Anin to offer

important one so wake up and take action.

but it will be a why such as “losing weight

some expert advice and break down the

Nana says: “Start small. The key is to

will help me play with my kids and give me

steps on how to turn those resolutions into a

gradually work your way up. focus. Our

the extra energy to deal with my work and

way of life.

brains are trained in such a way that in many

home life” that you will return to in order

situations we don’t want to make any effort

to keep you on track. If you can’t figure out

to get going on a goal, and rather stay in our

more than one or two reasons why you

comfort zones. To overcome this, it’s the first

want to achieve a goal, put it aside and

step that counts the most!”

spend some time thinking about the whys

It’s about the journey, not the destination Perfection should never be a goal as the outcome will always be failure. Rather, strive

you can’t answer.

for progress, focusing on the small steps and

Set the bar low to begin with

the positive ways you can improve yourself

One of the biggest problems psychologically

can’t articulate the motivation behind big

moving forward. Be proud of your achieve-

with setting a grand goal is that it can seem

ideas. That’s the key difference between

ments, no matter how small, and be forgiving

beyond reach and your energy to achieve it

those that thrive, and those that abandon

if you slip up. Focusing on the day to day

will soon flag. To avoid this, it is better to set

potential successes.”

means even if we veer from the path for a bit,

far more achievable short-term goals that

it is still within our reach.

will provide the baby steps to a grand goal.

Nana says: “Accomplishing one’s goals is

LIFE COACH Nana Amoako-Anin

For example, if you want to write a novel,

about, staying steady, and being consistent.

start with just a chapter or – if you’ve barely

The reflection about travelling to Paris to

written before – just get something down on

speak one’s very best French is the perfect

the page. Then do it again. Give yourself a

example to encourage us all, to keep at

chance at succeeding.

it. And how? In this case, it would mean

Nana says: “Most good people, simply,

booking some consecutive trips to Paris, or

Focus on your why

taking a brief sabbatical from work and living

When establishing an action plan, it is just

in the City of Life. The more committed you

as important to know why you want to

are to repeating the experience, the better

achieve your goal as what your goal is. The

the results.”

‘why’ will give you the emotional drive and

Get immediate reward for your good behaviour A great way to take the sting out of a challenging resolution is to combine it with something you already love. Suddenly,

Achievable resolutions for 2022

the new task becomes something to look

1.

forward to. For example, if you want to read

2. Eat more vegetables

10. Stop daydreaming

more and you are a coffee lover, get into

3. Explore somewhere new

11. Make your bed each morning

the habit of brewing your daily cuppa to sip

Take time to breathe each day

9. Shop with small businesses

4. Walk more

12. Read more books

are a music fan and novice runner building

5. Volunteer for a good cause

13. Get outside in nature

up to your first 5k, play your favourite tunes

6. Set a clear work/life balance

14. Get more sleep

through your headphones as you run.

7. Give praise

15. Do something that scares you

8. Get creative

16. Drink more water

while you read your allotted pages. Or if you

Nana says: “Passion and action are the best combination. If you love what you are setting out to accomplish - from the outset

17. Plan a holiday

- there is no stopping you from achieving

18. Change a bad habit

your goals.”

Don’t dream about your new life, start it Fantasising about how great life is going

19. Have a regular social media detox 20. Spend more time with loved ones

to be as the new you can feel so good

21. Try a new recipe each week

that to many people it can feel like an

22. Do your bit for the environment

accomplishment in itself. However, too much dreaming can rob us of the

FLYafrica

19

BEAUTY IN DEFIANCE: the art of

Cecilia Lamptey-Botchway Since it was launched in 2006, the Nubuke Foundation has championed Ghanaian contemporary art. Each year the award-winning art gallery’s Young Ghanaian Artist Programme supports a specially selected emerging talent with mentorship, studio space and a major exhibition of their work. FLYafrica talks to the current recipient, Cecilia Lamptey-Botchway (right).

Lamptey-Botchway as she grew

T

and studies at Nigeria’s Yaba College of

up in Osu, Accra – a childhood also

Technology, which, Cecilia says, “cemented

interspersed with regular visits to her

my desire”, she went on to forge inter-

Nigerian mother’s family in Lagos – there

national renown as a skilled, daring and

was never any doubt that she would

passionate artist across a range of media.

become an artist.

This year her latest work will be exhibited

o anyone who knew Cecilia

Her father is the accomplished

in Accra at the Nubuke Foundation, where

Ghanaian batik artist, textile designer and

Cecilia is the latest artist to be inducted on

painter Edward Lamptey and among her

its Young Ghanaian Artist Programme.

siblings it was the eager-to-learn Cecilia who could most often be found in his

Artistic family

studio, soaking up his teaching and trying

The work of father and daughter shares

her hand at her own creations.

a number of similarities. That Edward

“My father as an artist definitely shaped

Lamptey passed on his skills as a

my curiosity about art, painting, my envi-

master batik artist and textile designer

ronment, and my creativity,” Cecilia says.

is obvious while both artists’ work uses

“He provided that nurturing environment

ancient Adinkra symbols as recurrent

to enable me to develop. As I recall with

motifs to build a sense of storied African

nostalgia, my experimentation with his oil

perspective.

paints, watercolours, and techniques of

20

Following this formative family training

“There is a sense in which we both share

batik creation were important. I enjoyed

the same philosophical worldview when

art. My calling was to become an artist.”

it comes to using motifs in our batik art

Images courtesy of Cecilia Lamptey-Botchway STRONG WOMEN 2021 work ‘Strike a Pose’

I share the view that women are the foundational power of our societies, but they are marginalized in today’s male-dominated society and textile design,” says Cecilia. “We

Market dominated by women traders.

borrow our motifs largely from the

“Just a cursory glance at the market

African metaphysical universe incor-

and on the streets manifests elements

porating Akan and Yoruba symbols

of this economic power,” says Cecilia.

about African belief systems and

In her series of mixed media works

cultural life. These beautiful motifs

titled Mystical African Women in Body

serve as a repository of information

and Spirit, the artist represents this

about African culture.”

unseen but potent power of women

Look closer, though, and there are

by placing circuit boards – used to

subtleties in Cecilia’s use of symbol-

run complex operations while hidden

ism that reveal that she is in pursuit

under computer casing – amid the oil,

of her own artistic vision beyond her

fabric and acrylic on the canvas.

father’s tutelage.

She says: “I have built on what I

While Cecilia had seen examples of women’s fortitude in Accra, she

learned from my father. In some of my

also observed their subjugation in the

works, I superimpose onto these batik

capital and across Africa.

motifs anthropomorphic eyes and

“Growing up in urban Accra has

other feminine images. This relates to

influenced me in profound ways

my works on women as the founda-

[relating] to the question about

tional power of African societies.”

the subordination of women in our

Women role models

societies. Let me be clear, I do not limit this observation to Accra but

This celebration of women has

throughout the African continent and

become the dominant theme of

the global south. I share the view that

Cecilia’s work. While the paternal

women are the foundational power

influence is evident, strong women

of our societies, but they are margin-

role models have been instrumental

alized in today’s male-dominated

in shaping the soul of her artwork.

society. It is this narrative that my art

Cecilia’s mother did not study art

seeks to challenge.”

formally but become an expert textile designer in her own right creating wall

Powerful

hanging batik art, while the support

Among the most powerful of Cecilia’s

of her big sister in “nurturing and

works that confront this masculine

making sure that the indiscretions of

narrative is her 2018 painting ‘Ayak’.

the younger sisters are kept in check

It was inspired by a story in Time

or balance” is celebrated in one of

magazine about rape as a weapon as

Cecilia’s most recent works, ‘Covering

war, which included an interview with

My Back’.

a South-Sudanese woman, Ayak, who

There is a wider sense of sister-

lost her entire family to a rebel attack

hood examined in paintings that look

on her village and then was raped

to inspirational women beyond her

while fleeing, alone, for a UN camp,

inner circle of family and friends. On

and then raped repeatedly while she

the streets of Accra Cecilia found

was at the camp. The magazine’s

plenty more evidence of the African

cover image is a photograph of Ayak

woman’s foundational power with

taken at a safe house in Uganda.

centres of commerce such as Makola

She poses in profile, naked and nine FLYafrica

21

how African women are overlooked and the freedoms they desire from a male-dominated society. This metaphor of freedom is extended in her performance work to drive an end to child abuse. Here, in an impassioned performance, Cecilia attaches hundreds of shoes to her body – “an indictment against male paedophiles”, she says – and drags them through the streets all the while calling out the perpetrators of this heinous crime.

Portraits “I see this performance as an act of energy, rebellion and anger,” she says.

“I shame and ridicule these men by dragging their shoes through the street, mud, bushes with thorns. My audience feeds my body with this energy and I scream out loud that these men should be seen as the ‘excrement of the earth’.”

Cecilia’s most recent work is far more celebratory. Last year she released a group of oil portrait paintings. The subjects – all swagger and style – are quintessentially modern African women, but as ever with Cecilia’s work there are layers of meaning. All the subjects are surrounded by a patchwork of geometric symbols while the artist adds texture with mopping wool – upturning its connotations of domesticity and restrictive gender roles. months pregnant. Cecilia was inspired

perspective, they seem to swallow up

by the image, which to her encapsu-

the form of Ayak or render her more

lated female beauty in defiance.

distinct. It is as if the young woman’s

Performance art

“I see the mopping wool as the sphere of the domestic, again relegating African women to a powerless being,” she says. “My intent is to

also supported by a female solidarity

re-purpose the use of wool and

She says: “The article [includes the

through the ages. “My art points to

present it as an object of beauty,

line]: ‘the very act of photographing

the mystical but unseen ways of the

aesthetics and empowerment. The

Ayak and her unborn child gave her

African woman’s foundational power,”

wool in a way is metaphor for beauty,

the opportunity to celebrate the very

Cecilia says.

aesthetics and empowerment.”

thing her perpetrators had tried to rob

This idea of the female body as

from her – her beauty and her dignity.’

political, as a tool of expression is

body of work, it’s not surprising that

So, with this painting I celebrate the

taken to its literal extreme in Cecilia’s

Cecilia has long been on the radar of

beauty, truth, pain, and anguish, of

performance art. “Art, like life, is not

the Nubuke Foundation. The visual art

being a woman in Africa but also chal-

static,” she tells me, and “artists are

lenge a narrative that wants to rob the

always searching for new vocabularies

African woman of [those qualities].”

and mediums to express them-

The exposed skin of Cecilia’s Ayak,

22

resistance stands alone and yet is

THE POWER OF FRIENDSHIP Cecilia’s work champions a sisterhood

selves”. So, Cecilia’s multi-disciplinary

rendered in acrylic on canvas, is

approach has seen her become

scored with a variety of geometric

the artwork as part of her drive to

shapes and symbols that imbue it

express herself. For performances

with an archetypal, timeless quality.

at events such as Ouidah Festival in

This patterning continues through-

Benin, Cecilia has cloaked her body

out the background of the paint-

in discarded computer panels, news-

ing so, depending on the viewer’s

paper and African fabrics to highlight

With such a varied and impactful

We are always on the lookout for artists who are unafraid to be different. It is still daunting to be stand out in such a way whilst dealing with issues about their career

and cultural institution in East Legon

to provide skills training for kayayei

has a history of championing the

[women porters who carry their

work of emerging homegrown artists

trade goods on their heads] in these

and when it came to selecting the

skills so they can begin to empower

recipient of its annual Young Ghanaian

themselves.”

Artist (YGA) programme, Cecilia

Cecilia’s solo exhibition will feature

stood out. Nubuke’s director, Odile

new works created during the artist’s

Tevie, says: “We are always on the

time on the YGA programme. Odile

lookout for artists who are unafraid to

says: “Visitors can expect bold,

be different. It is still daunting to be

engaging, tactile and experimental

stand out in such a way whilst dealing

works (both with ideas and materials)

with issues about their career. We felt

that speak to the issues she is most

that Cecilia’s unique background from

passionate about – the inner strength

a textile design family enriched her

of women.

thinking, practice and brought incred-

had the opportunity of studio visits

ible depth to her work.”

and constructive critique of my work

Cecilia thinks just as highly of the

by my Nubuke family. They exposed

Nubuke Foundation – “a formidable

me to literature that deepened my

cultural institution in Ghana” in her

thought process and directed me in

words – and is delighted to have

ways that I never imagined. I have

been chosen. “I truly see the YGA

benefited from organized talks from

programme as a Godsend provid-

alumni of the YGA programme. “

ing support to harness the talents

She has also had the chance to

‘CULTURAL INSTITUTION’ The Nubuke Foundation’s gallery

Cecilia adds: “With these new works I will explore in depth notions of womanhood and the divinity of the African woman!”

Find out more

of artists.” While it is unusual for the

give back and share her own skills

To find out more about Cecilia Lamptey-Botchway and

programme to back an artist whose

with examples of women who inspire

events linked to her work during the YGA programme at

work has already been exhibited in

her in her own work. “I have just

nubukefoundation.viewingrooms.com/

Nigeria, China, Europe, Canada and

begun a workshop in batik and textile

Cecilia’s exhibition at the Nubuke Foundation will run

the US, Cecilia says the chance to

design here,” she tells me. “Its aim is

from June to August this year.

spread the word on her work and share her skills in her home country is a cherished opportunity.

“As an artist there nothing like home recognition,” she says. “In essence, I don’t want to be ‘prophet without home recognition. In that regard I am proud that Nubuke has recognised my work.”

Nubuke Foundation

Stars of the YGA The Nubuke Foundation’s Young Ghanaian Artist programme has been the launch pad for some now world-renowned artists. Here are some YGA alumni to check out.

After beginning in 2014 as a way to showcase the work of high school students, the YGA programme, Odile tells me, has undergone a recent revamp “based on feedback from artists and professionals”. Now the chosen artist gets six months of mentorship and study covering critical thinking exercises and art theory, while the Nubuke library of books, videos and journals is at their disposal.

They’ll also be introduced to elements of the business side of their practice such as finance and marketing. It all culminates in a solo exhibition in Nubuke’s exposed concrete gallery – still one of Accra’s most striking buildings – lasting three months.

Cecilia is relishing the exchange of ideas and opportunity to extend

Eric Gyamfi The Accra-based photographer won the prestigious Foam Paul Huf Award in 2019 for his impressionistic, hybrid portraits. The Kwame Nkrumah University graduate has won a host of other international awards for a body of work capturing issues around Africa. For more examples of his work, visit his Instagram page @gyamfi_eric

Gideon Appah Gideon’s evocative paintings and drawings mix pop culture with African folklore and daily rituals from his childhood. He is considered one of the leading painters of is generation and this year he was shortlisted for the Henrike Grohs Art Award, that pays tribute to the best African artistic talent.

Na Chainkua Reindorf and Isaac Opoku (Afroscope) Borth these past YGA winners were recently selected in the coming exhibition ‘Black Star – The Museum as Freedom’ for Ghana’s Pavilion at the 2022 Venice Biennale.

the reach of her art. She says: “I have FLYafrica 23

AWAnews Our reliability ratings for January Africa World Airlines is proud to release our operational performance statistics for January 2022, in line with our commitment to transparency.

Schedule execution rate

1,169

98.1%

Total flights delayed beyond two hours

Numbers of passengers booked

Passengers denied boarding due to oversales

37

49,215

9

Number of bags checked in

Bags delivered on time

46,018

99.8%

10

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Touching Africa, Touching The World!

D. ERADIATE and RADIATE.

D. RADIATE (91)

C. Yes. DIATRETA

B2. RADIATE: to emit rays

B1. ERADIATE: to radiate.

A. N

2. Seven tiles answers Answers to Scrabble puzzle on page 25.

B3. RADIATE

SEVENS - 1 BIRDMAN: a person who deals with birds.

1. ABDIMNR

Book online

B4. AIRDATE: the scheduled date of a broadcast.

SIXES - 3 MANDIR: a Hindu temple.

MINBAR: a Muslim pulpit.

RIBAND: a ribbon.

24

Flights delayed beyond two hours due to weather

Number of flights scheduled

How to book

page Scrabble Fancy yourself as the next Scrabble world champion?

Here’s a chance to test your word power against Wellington Jghere, the 2015 winner of the trophy and the current sixth best ranked Scrabble player in the world.

The Nigerian pro is now FLYafrica’s new puzzle master and here he has set some tricky tasks for readers based on the classic word game.

1. ABDIMNR This letter combination can yield only one valid seven-letter word using all letters. Can you spot it?

2. Seven tiles

Other than the bingo, it can also form three valid words of six-letter length. How many can you spot without any aids?

Given the above board situation and rack of seven tiles in an ongoing game of scrabble, solve the following:

SEVENS – 1 B- - - MAN : a person who deals with birds.

B. how many valid plays can you spot utilizing all seven tiles?

SIXES – 3 MAN- -R : a Hindu temple.

- - - BAR : a Muslim pulpit.

- - BAND : a ribbon.

C. Can you spot any valid bingo through the floating “T”?

A. What letter does the blank on board represent?

D. find the highest scoring play.

E. how many plays can you find that score 83 points?

Wellington has his own brand of customised premium-quality Scrabble board, WellyBoard, available to purchase.

Visit wellyboard.com FLYafrica 25

EXPLORING THE GREAT

Outdooring

Intrepid Ghanaian adventurer Selorm Sosu is always on the move, revealing the riches of his country across some of its most remote corners. He shares his experiences with images and blogs on his Detraveling Fotografa website and brings guests along for the ride as a travel guide for hire. Here he shares some of his latest despatches from the road less travelled.

for kente cloth in the Volta region.

There are also museums and forts along the coast and several hotels and restaurants if you want to travel in style.

For those who want a real offthe-beaten-path adventure, there is also the opportunity to explore some of Ghana’s most untouched

Adventure in the Volta Region

with hiking routes that will take you

draw more visitors in and boost the

to waterfalls, rainforests, national

economy here. Visitors will be made

parks and in Mount Amedzofe the

I find myself regularly going back to

to feel very welcome. The landscape

highest point in all of Ghana. There

the Volta Region not only because

is breathtaking, the food is delicious

are plenty of picturesque areas to set

I come from there but because it

and the dancing and general love

up camp on these adventures. There

offers so many interesting experi-

of life here is infectious. Take for

is nothing like waking from your tent

ences. Growing up there as a little

example, the traditional Ewe dance,

boy, I didn’t have the chance to fully

the borborbor. You bend your body at

explore much during the holidays so

an angle of between 75 to 90 degrees

I’m making up for it now.

while winding your waist and shaking

It is awesome to travel here and

a white handkerchief in your hand.

soak up the unique food and cultural

People don’t need much of an excuse

heritage as well as spend time with

to start dancing here and you’ll defi-

the older generation. They always

nitely be encouraged to join in.

have amazing stories to tell about

With the tourism sector in its

Ewe history. Most people in the Volta

infancy here, now is the time to visit

Region live in rural areas and mostly

and take in the region’s attractions

depend on agricultural farming. Many

before the crowds come. Now with

of them do not have access to safe

the opening of an airport in the

drinking water, healthcare, educa-

capital city, Ho, it is much easier and

tion or modern farming practices or

quicker to get to the Volta Region and

technology. Tourism is something

there are more business opportunities.

new here and the region has perhaps

I prefer to head for the rural regions

not felt the benefit of 2019’s ‘Year of

and limit my time in the city. Not that

Return’ and the current ‘Beyond the

the villages are all sleepy and peace-

Return’ business investment drive as

ful. On market days they are alive with

other parts of the country.

vendors calling out for you to buy

However, most people in the Volta 26

and spectacular natural wonders Region are now doing their best to

their wares such as ‘kete’, the name

to the sound of a nearby waterfall NATURAL LOOK The spiritual pathfinder for the chief

and with beautiful butterflies flitting about you.

If exploring on foot does not appeal there are tro tros and taxis to get you from place to place. There

WLI FALLS Tallest waterfall in West Africa

are a few companies operating in the region that will help arrange your

and villages they rule, which includes the left-wing chief, the middle-wing chief and the right-wing chief.

The occasion presented a rare opportunity to showcase the rich culture of the Anlo, a sub-group of the Ewe people. The display included the female warriors of Anloland, who act as the guides to the Chief as the fire in the air to announce the presence of the Chiefs as well as his royal highness Togbe Nyaho Tamakloe VI. There were many styles of headgear and jewellery on show among the woman and the chiefs – all part of the unique identity of the Ewe culture. The occasion was chaired by Alex Kwasi Bruk, who is the founder of Bruka Associates and in attendance were members of the Diplomatic Corp including Eliphas Barine, transportation as part of a package

Kenyan High Commissioner to Ghana

for you. Volta region to me has one

and Awoki Panassa, the Togolese

of the best hosting cultures with their

Ambassador to Ghana.

accommodation in being on point and

In addressing his people, his royal

second to none with luxurious resorts

highness Togbe Nyaho Tamakloe VI

and spaces to camp. If you want to

said: “Anlos have a lot to offer Ghana

experience life like a Voltarian you

and the evidence of this potential is

can find rooms to rent on Airbnb or a

carried in [our] track record in govern-

homestay which could be arranged.

ment and how we have ruled Ghana

While you are here, make sure

more than any other ethnic group

you sample the local food. Tasty

in Ghana. We made a lot of sacrifice

street food favourites include banku

for the good of this country. We can

with okra soup and tropical tilapia

also use the same energy to serve

fish, yam fufu with light soup and

our people. We are highly educated,

yake yake with one man thousand

resourceful and I have come to help

(Volta-caught anchovies that have a

and to work with you.”

deliciously sweet taste).

There were many styles of headgear and jewellery on show among the woman and the chiefs – all part of the unique identity of the Ewe culture

An insight into Anlo culture I could not miss Recently, I was lucky enough to be invited to Whuti in the southern Volta Region to witness the outdooring of Togbe Nyaho Tamakloe VI, the Dufia of Whuti, paramount Chief of KomeShime and Miafiaga of Anlo.

Outdooring are formal ceremonies in which a person of high office is presented to the public for the first time. It turned out to be a hilarious and colourful event that I was very grateful to attend.

ROYAL HIGHNESS Togbe Nyaho Tamakloe VI is carried aloft

The Anlo traditional council has three wings that aid in the administration of the chieftaincy system of their day-to-day life of the various clans FLYafrica 27

Ghanaian conservation

Coming to the aid of

crocodiles

Crocodiles have a special, almost magical status in many parts of Ghana, but their future is under threat.

So what can be done to save them?

C

28

rocodilians – the species

– with its tourist-magnet ponds of

important role in the environment. As

that includes crocodiles and

cuddly crocs – believe the reptiles

adults they regulate the populations

alligators – are modern-day

contain the spirits of the dead and

of other animals – stopping them

dinosaurs. These built-to-last beasts

are to be worshipped. However, the

predate the T-rexes and tricera-

relationship between humans and

tops but are very much still around

crocodiles here is not always so rever-

today in all their jaw-snapping glory.

ential. The slender snouted crocodile

Perhaps it is this primordial quality

has been targeted by fishermen who

that makes crocs such a totemic

see their livelihoods threatened by

Ghanaian conservation NGO

animal in Ghana, which is home to

this natural fishing machine. These

Threatened Species Conservation

three different species – the West

attacks and dwindling habitats have

Alliance, which has carried out one

African crocodile, the slender-snouted

left it one of the most critically endan-

of the most detailed surveys into

crocodile and the dwarf crocodile.

gered species on the planet. Should

slender-snouted crocodile numbers

Certainly, communities in the north

it slip into extinction, the loss would

in the country. The findings were

east of the country, such as Paga

be keenly felt. Crocodiles have an

encouraging, uncovering a healthy

YOUNG Evidence of breeding croc populations has been found in Ghana

from overcrowding and degrading ecosystems – as well as creating habitats for other animals by burrowing and nest building.

Emmanuel Amoah heads the

NEST Emmanuel Amoah and his team record their findings near the Jimi River in the Ashanti Region

demographic of more than 50 crocs – from adults to hatchlings – around the Jimi River in Obuasi in the Ashanti Region. Emmanuel and his team’s work now involves protecting that population and running community awareness campaigns and forming volunteer groups to help mitigate the prevailing threats.

Here Emmanuel talks to FLYafrica about what drew him to this line of

Species Conservation Alliance as my small way of contributing to nature protection.

work, Ghana’s crocodile hot spots, why crocodiles deserve protection

Q. Why did you choose to focus

and what are the origins of our coun-

your work on West African

try’s special relationship with these

slender-snouted crocodiles?

scaly predators.

My goal is to provide critical population and ecological data for timely long-term conservation interventions

The West African slender-snouted crocodile is the most endangered and

Discovering a significant popula-

Q. How did your interest in wildlife

rarest crocodilian in Africa. Despite

tion of West African slender-snouted

conservation begin?

this, it has received little research and

crocodiles in Obuasi did not come

conservation attention. I choose to

as a surprise to me because I believe

for wildlife especially charismatic

focus a significant proportion of my

there is a huge gap in knowledge on

species such as parrots and monkeys

conservation effort on slender-snout-

the population and distribution of

that were commonly used as pets

ed crocodiles in Ghana because the

the species in Ghana and West Africa

although I never had a wildlife pet

species is on the brink of extinction

as a whole. Furthermore, before the

of my own. However, my interest in

and needs urgent attention. My goal

wildlife conservation began over a

is to provide critical population and

decade ago during my undergraduate

ecological data for timely long-term

studies where I specialized in wildlife

conservation interventions.

Growing up, I had a strong love

and range management. During my

discovery of the population, our RARE Emmanuel with a slendersnouted croc

team had seen a couple of videos on social media platforms where a few individuals in fishponds and human residents in Obuasi were killed by

four-year degree programme, I got an

Q. The species is registered as

crocodiles. This suggested our team

in-depth understanding of the global

critically endangered, but your work

would find a good population at the

wildlife conservation crisis and felt

uncovered a healthy, breeding popu-

site. Discovering the population in

the urgency to contribute my quota

lation in Obuasi. Was that a surprise

the Jimi River implies that if our team

to wildlife conservation. I have since

to you? Why did you focus your work

continues our exploration effort, we

initiated several conservation projects

on the Jimi River? Had you heard

can discover a more significant popu-

and established the Threatened

reports there were crocodiles there?

lation across Ghana.

FLYafrica 29

Our survey data suggest that apart from traditionally protected rivers, the dwarf crocodile population has fallen critically low due to regulated hunting and habitat modifications Q. Can you give me some details

data suggests there is a gradual

about the team that carried out this

increase in the encounter rates. The

survey and what it involved?

increase in encounter rates may not

The team comprises four dedicated

necessarily reflect an increase in

wildlife research scientists namely me

numbers but rather a reduction of

as team leader, Akwasi Anokye, Daniel

human disturbances as a result of our

Konzin and Clement Sullibie Saagulo

community awareness campaigns

Naabeh. Our team conducted recon-

which to some extent reduce freight

naissance surveys in the Jimi River

distance and improve direct encoun-

to develop predefined transects [a

ters during surveys.

marked area within the crocodiles’ suspected habitat] for night surveys.

Q. Part of the reason for the falling

We conducted both wet and dry

numbers is that the crocodiles were

seasons spotlight surveys on foot to

treated as a threat by local fish

assess the population status of the

farmers along the Jimi River as the

species in the river. Additionally, we

species enter fishponds and feed

searched for slender-snouted croco-

on their fish and there were a lot

dile nests during the nesting seasons

of retaliatory killings. Can you tell

(late March-July) and made the first

me about your efforts to change

country record of a slender-snouted

people’s attitudes to crocodiles?

crocodile nest in 2017 and have since recorded additional 34 nests.

Our team has initiated several conservation awareness programmes to improve the local understanding of

SURVEY The team tag a crocodile during a night patrol

Additionally, we have trained local

Q. Working with crocodiles sounds

the ecological importance of croco-

dangerous. Have there been any

diles. We use the concept of how

close encounters, and did you feel

lions balance the terrestrial ecosystem

fearful at any time?

through predation to explain to locals

local capacity-building programmes

that crocodiles balance the aquatic

and crocodile exclusion fences have

predators like crocodiles involves a lot

ecosystem and improve the fish stock

significantly reduced the threats to

of risks. However, I never feel fright-

of the river through feeding and

ened working because I have received

creation of burrows. Furthermore, our

training from one of the most

team introduced crocodile exclusion

experienced crocodile researchers, Dr

fences to fish farmers to prevent the

Matthew H. Shirley [US conservation

species from entering fishponds.

Of course! Working with ambush

volunteers to provide timely rescue for crocodiles that may be found in fishponds. Our awareness campaigns,

the species in the Jimi River.

MAGICAL BEASTS Crocodiles are worshipped by many communities in Ghana

Q. Has your work expanded to include the other species of crocodile in Ghana? What can you tell us

biologist] so I am fully aware of all the

about the West African crocodile and

safety protocols. Notwithstanding, I

dwarf crocodile populations in the

have had a couple of fearful encoun-

country?

ters with crocodiles including one hot

Over the past seven years, my

chase during a nest opening and the

work has mainly focused on slender-

handling of hatchlings.

snouted crocodiles and dwarf crocodiles although plans are advanced to

Q. Have you been able to track the

include the West African crocodile

population of crocs you found? Have

(Crocodylus suchus). Our survey

they survived and have you seen

data suggest that apart from tradi-

increases in numbers since your

tionally protected rivers, the dwarf

initial survey?

crocodile population has fallen criti-

Yes, our team has been monitoring

30

cally low due to regulated hunting

the population at Obuasi every year

and habitat modifications. Although

since its discovery in 2017. Our survey

dwarf crocodiles are found in

Croc facts • Crocodiles can go through 4,000 teeth over a lifetime • Crocodiles have the strongest bite of any animal in the world • Crocodile’s don’t sweat. To keep cool, they open their mouths which is known as ‘mouth gaping’, similar to a dog panting • Crocodiles are extremely fast swimmers, reaching up to 35 km per hour in the water • Crocs can hold their breath underwater for more than an hour • Crocodiles swallow small stones help them grind up the food in their stomachs • The expression to cry ‘crocodile tears’ (to display insincere

emotion), derives from crocodiles shedding tears while they eat their prey. It’s not due to remorse, though, but for biological reasons as air forced through the sinuses as they eat forces the tearing • Crocodiles are mainly nocturnal hunters and have excellent night vision. Their sense of smell and hearing are also extremely well developed • Crocodiles have the most acidic stomach of any vertebrate, allowing them to digest bones, horns or shells from their prey • Like birds, dolphins and some other reptiles, crocodiles can sleep with one eye wide open.

wildlife reserves in Ghana, significant

in Ghana where crocodiles are tradi-

protection of crocodiles. I am sure

numbers have only been found in

tionally protected and this protec-

we will be able to unravel interesting

traditional protected areas.

tion cuts across all three species.

information about traditional protec-

For instance, dwarf crocodiles are

tion after his thesis.

Q. The Paga crocodiles are a

protected in Chirehin and Peninamisa

renowned tourist attraction in the

[in the Kintampo South District]

Q. What are the conserva-

north-east of Ghana. It seems like

communities.

tion projects you are currently

there are a number of communities

involved in?

here that have a close relationship

Q. Why do you think crocodiles are

with crocodiles and see them as

imbued with such mystical power

ecology of West African slender-

special, mystical animals. In Paga, the

among certain communities in

snouted crocodiles across southern

belief is that the crocodiles contain

Ghana?

Ghana. Furthermore, I am undertaking

I am currently studying the nesting

the souls of dead villagers and I have

This is an interesting question

nesting habitat restoration activities

heard there are similar beliefs about

that I have asked myself on several

for slender-snouted crocodiles in the

populations of dwarf crocodiles. Have

occasions. Even in communities

transition belt of Ghana to improve

you come into contact with similar

where crocodiles are not tradition-

the long-term protection of the

communities as part of your work?

ally protected, some people believe

species. I am also undertaking a series

that crocodile hunters give birth to

of awareness campaigns and stake-

an integral part of the culture of the

disabled children and die mysteri-

holder engagements to improve the

indigenous people of West Africa

ous deaths. Historically, it is said that

protection of crocodiles across south-

and the origin of belief varies greatly

people used the bile of crocodiles to

ern and transition belts of Ghana.

among communities. It is difficult to

poison others and so it is likely that in

tell the exact origin of a particular

some communities such protection

belief but the common thing about

was initiated to prevent the harvesting

To find out more about the

such beliefs is that they are passed on

of such parts. I am currently mentor-

work of the Threatened Species

from generation with a unique story

ing a master’s student whose project

Conservation Alliance, visit

attached. There are several locations

work is focused on the traditional

threscoal.org

Traditional protection of wildlife is

FLYafrica

31

Harmattan Rain

THE NAMES TO KNOW IN NEW AFRICAN MUSIC Music and arts curating platform Harmattan Rain is one of the most trusted voices in documenting the diversity of modern African music. Who better then to put together a list of the most original and exciting musicians who should be on your playlist in 2022. If you need an injection of new music in your life, read on.

32

Yaw Tog

Thorsten Owusu Gyimah, popularly known as Yaw Tog, is a 19-yearold Ghanaian rapper who makes drill music known as ‘Asakaa,’ an interpolation of ‘Saka’, a slang spoken by young followers of the music in Kumasi. The foremost architects of the style are a group of musicians known as The Asakaa Boys, who include Yaw Tog, Jay Bahd, Kawabanga, O’Kenneth, City Boy, Kwaku DMC, Reggie and Sean Lifer. The music is hard hitting and is inspired by the drill music of the US. Kumasi has always had a large US influence – giving rise to its nickname ‘Kumerica’ – Yaw Tog’s music is a big hit in his home city.

His song ‘Sore’, which features a strong, chanted chorus and combines traditional West African elements with the dynamic flow of drill, became an instant viral hit. The song’s popularity led to a collaboration with UK hip hop artist Stormzy and Ghanaian rapper Kwesi Arthur.

Tracks to check out: ‘Sore’ and its remix with Stormzy and Kwesi Arthur, ‘Fake Ex’ Connect: @yawtog_yt on Instagram

Ayra Starr

This Nigerian singer, songwriter and all-round Generation Z cool kid began her fashion career at 16 with Quove Model Management before pursuing music. Her debut studio album, ‘19 & Dangerous’, was released by Mavin Records in Lagos and produced two top-40 singles. Latest single ‘Bloody Samaritan’ came in at number three on the Billboard Next Big Sound list in September. Definitely one to watch.

Tracks to check out: ‘Bloody Samaritan’, ‘Away’, ‘Sare’

Images courtesy of Yaw Tog

Images courtesy of Arya Starr

Connect: @ayrastarr on Instagram and Twitter

FLYafrica 33

Kofi Jamar

Kofi Jamar is a rapper, songwriter, and performer who is part of a new generation of emerging voices reshaping Ghana’s musical industry. He is most known for the catchy drill song ‘Ekorso’, which includes Yaw Tog and YPee and made him a poster child for the ‘Kumerica’ movement. His second album, ‘Appetite For Destruction,’ was released in September and includes a collaboration with outstanding Nigerian vocalist Teni, among others. He received seven nominations for the 2021 Vodafone Ghana Music Award.

Tracks to check out: ‘Ekorso’, ‘They Don’t Know’ Connect: @ kofijamar on Instagram

Blxckie

Last October, South African hip-hop artist Blxckie burst into the scene with his track ‘Big Time Sh’lappa’ featuring LucasRaps, which immediately drew attention and developed his diehard fan base. During the original 21-day Covid lockdown in South Africa in March he used the time to team up with fellow Johannesburg rising artists such as Lucasraps, resulting in daily Soundcloud drops from the pair and their frequent collaborator, Dr Peppa. The 21-year-old has since brought an intensity and level of excitement to South African hip-hop that both casual listeners and fans may argue has been lacking recently.

Tracks to check out: ‘Ye x4’, ‘Skia’, ‘Mama, It’s Bad Connect: @blxckie_ on Instagram

Find out more For playlists, features and interviews featuring the cream of new African music, visit harmattanrain.com

34

Moliy

Accra artist Moliy’s debut project, ‘Wondergirl’, introduced her distinct Afro-fusion sound with elements of r‘n’b, rap and dancehall.. The genrebending Ghanaian singer has also turned up on collaborations with Amaarae, M.anifest and Vic Mensa. Her EP has also effectively crossed the borders of Ghana and gained airplay in Gambia, Kenya, and Nigeria. With Ghanaian music on the rise, expect to see and hear Moliy on stages and platforms worldwide. Her new single is called ‘Déjà vu’ and out now.

Tracks to check out: ‘Wondergirl’, ‘Déjà vu’’ Connect: @moliymusic on Instagram

Turunesh

Turunesh, a Tanzanian singer-songwriter noted for her fluid, and freeform approach to neo-soul. The 24-year-old self described “Swahili sex symbol” is an experimental and versatile talent that makes taarab and unyago-inspired music that challenges traditional narratives. Her latest single ‘Cigarette’ is a case in point.

Sensual and hypnotic, it champions the black girls who are unafraid to celebrate their sexuality with her voice gliding above complex guitar riffs to express the urgency and ease of a passionate embrace. She is pioneering a brave route of taarab and unyago-inspired music to challenge traditional narratives of “African music.”

Tracks to check out: ‘Asili Spirits’, ‘Cigarette’

Images courtesy of Moliy Music

Images by Jenn Xu @jennnerally

Connect: @turunesh.wav on Instagram

Nenny

PsychoYP

Tracks to check out: ‘Tequila’, ‘Wave’, ‘Sushi’

Tracks to check out: ‘Long Way From Home’, ‘They Don’t Know’, ‘Big Moves’, ‘+234 (Daily Paper)’

Connect: @nenny_on on Instagram

Connect: @ psychop on Instagram

Marlene Fernanda Cardoso Tavares, known by her stage name Nenny, is a Cape-Verdean Portuguese singer, songwriter and rapper, who is just 19, but already creating waves with her vibrant and dynamic melodies. She was only 16 when she released her debut EP ‘Aura’, referring to herself as “cassula do game” (‘the game’s youngest’) with its lead track ‘Sushi’ an ear worm trap hit with some serious attitude, all dressed up in a kimono. It amassed millions of views and became her first platinum hit. Latest track ‘Tequila’ is a similarly life-affirming delight.

PsychoYP is a trap/hip-hop musician from Abuja, Nigeria. Since the release of his debut EP, ‘Lost in the Sauce’, he has built a huge underground following. He is a member of the Abuja rap collective Apex Village, appearing on a number of tracks in their 2019 release ‘Welcome to the Ville’. Recently, he has continued recording music while studying in the UK and this year saw the release of his EP ‘Euphoria’ which integrates his native dialect into his lyrics.

FLYafrica 35

EATafrica ‘This is home, a place to feel yourself and be accepted as you are’

Palm Moments began as a pop-up bar at music festivals and fresh food and fresh music are still its winning combination now it has grown into two permanent venues in Accra. Founder Anatasia Cobbinah explains how the Ghanaian chain has become a haven of healthy living for creatives in the capital.

Q

Can you give me more details

music events and parties due to its

about the early days of Palm

larger size. Whilst Osu is very casual

Moments as a pop-up venture?

FOUNDER Anatasia Cobbinah

but extremely versatile. We’ve hosted different events and activities. We curate the space to fit a particular

and has a street vibe surrounded by a

vibe or mood we want for an event.

We started as a mobile bar for

community of local traders as well as

We make sure to use both the indoor

events and festivals in Accra and

young professionals who pass by for

and outdoor areas we have available

beyond. The very first, was in the

lunch or after-work drinks.

to us. Our Asylum Down branch is

Western Region (where I am from), at

close to a popular radio station Happy

a festival at Busua called Asabaako.

Q. Checking out the Asylum Down

FM, we’re right behind it on the left

My friends and I decided to sell drinks

venue, it looks very cute and tranquil.

road turn!

while still enjoying the festival experi-

I’m guessing that changes at the

ence. We sold coconuts and rum,

regular parties and music nights. Can

Q. How hands-on are you as a

fresh mixes of green juices and our

you tell me about the outside space

manager? Can you regularly be

now famous hibiscus juice with vodka!

and how it is adjusted for drinks, dining or events?

Q. Now you have two permanent venues in Accra, including the most recent restaurant in Asylum Down.

Oh thank you! Love this space too, both our restaurant areas are small

FRESH Food and drink is packed with locally sourced ingredients

found serving customers or has a big part of what you do been assembling the right team to handle day-to-day running or restaurants?

That’s a good question, I’m

Do the two venues differ much in

very hands on in all aspects of my

vibe and what they offer?

business. From busting tables and

Yes, we have two branches now!

cooking to doing admin, book-

One in Osu, Ako Adjei; close to central

keeping and creating content. We’re

Osu, and our most recent branch that

still working on building a strong

just opened in February last year at

team who can each carry out their

Asylum Down. Osu is in the centre of

specific roles. Regardless, we’re still

the city, it’s very fast paced compared

big on supporting one another as we

to Asylum Down where it’s a more

continue to grow.

chilled and quiet environment. Asylum

36

Down is perfect as a co-working space

Q. What was your ‘why?’ for setting

during the day and at night complete-

up Palm Moments? Did you feel that

ly transforms to host most of our live

Accra was missing a place like this?

The people that I met along my journey as a model have been a big part of the Palm Moments journey.

Palm Moments is that hub because of these people

long tea, pancakes, red red, goat jollof and mushroom kebabs.

Q. You ended 2021 with a very busy December full of events across the arts spectrum with nights for music, books, film and art lovers. Can you tell me about any upcoming events?

This December we announced our very first events calendar. It was remarkable. We hosted a lot of experi-

and creative scene helped in spread-

ences across the month, and it was

ing the word on Palm Moments and

fulfilling to see our community enjoy-

getting it to become a hub for the

ing everything we put together. We

city’s creative scene, hosting regular

look forward to hosting even more

art, music and film events?

events. Our first event of the year will

Yes absolutely, and Palm Moments

be celebrating the one-year anniver-

has given me more visibility as a

sary of the Asylum Down branch. Get

model than before. The people that

ready for pop-up vibes with some of

I met along my journey as a model

Accra’s talented artists and creatives

have been a big part of the Palm

in music, creative arts and more. We’ll

Moments journey. Palm Moments is

also be showcasing our first Palm

that hub because of these people.

Moments merchandise collection, specially curated with [illustrator and

Q. I believe Palm Moments has its

stylist] Allen Coleman.

own herb and vegetable garden for some of its super fresh farm-to-table

Q. Among the December events was

feel completely like yourself and be

ingredients. Can you give me exam-

a Skate Gal’s party. Can you tell me

accepted as who you are. Where you

ples of what is grown and how they

more about that?

can relax with friends or on your own

appear on the menu?

Palm Moments is home, a place to

and just be comfortable. For creatives

We collaborated with Skate

Yes, we do. The garden was really

Gal’s Club which is also part of

in Accra, this was something that we

too small to provide regular require-

the SurfGhana collective (who

lacked. And with Palm Moments, it

ments so we’re trying to resurrect it

are responsible for the creation of

became this space organically. As a

now with a limited number of crops,

Freedom Skatepark). We came

result, we were able to identify our

such as mint, basil and parsley which

together to put on a day of care-free

main values of freedom, enjoyment,

will hopefully provide continuous

fun to celebrate girls and women with

creativity and love.

leaves. The rest of the veggies and

skate, DJ and cocktail workshops as

herbs are provided every day by one

well as a vendors’ market by female-

Q. How did you get started as a

of several commercial gardens we

owned brands. Because of events like

fashion model?

use. But we still want to set up our

this and others we’ve hosted, it’s only

own one day. We need to have a

natural that our space attracts this

decent plot of land for this.

crowd, and they feel welcome. Our

Modelling originally started in 2013 as a side interest back in Takoradi while I worked in a regular job. In

values are shared among many of our

2015 I met with some event organis-

Q. What are some of the most

friends and collaborators. We under-

ers to put together a fashion show.

popular dishes and drinks on the

stand the importance of uplifting and

I was connected with other models

Palm Moments menu? Is the menu

from Accra so I made the decision to

constantly updated?

move from Takoradi and never looked

We update the menu at least twice

HAPPY PLACE Palm Moments is a welcoming spot to work, rest or play

inspiring Accra’s young creatives.

Q. Can you tell me about your plans for Palm Moments or any of your

back. That was when freedom started

a year, mainly adding new recipes

for me. I walked on a runway feeling

we’ve tested in our kitchen. We

completely happy and seeing others

always try to keep the favourites that

cheer me on, it was exciting. My

our community loves and sometimes

Moments. We’re focussed on being

journey continued and has allowed

we have to make changes if we can’t

really active. We can’t give too much

me to work with and for some

source the ingredients. This allows us

away right now but we’re looking

amazing brands and people.

to get really creative.

forward to more growth, more love

Some honourable mentions from Q. Has being part of the local fashion

the menu are the pineapple mint juice,

other ventures for this year?

There’s so much in-store for Palm

and more opportunities to make lifelong memories.

FLYafrica 37

LIVEafrica Neighbourhood watch A local’s guide to Accra There is so much diversity in Ghana’s vibrant capital and it is reflected in the city’s neighbourhoods.

Each has its own distinct identity and if you have the time, it is worth venturing off the tourist trail and discovering the places where clued-up residents actually hang out. Here’s our guide to Accra’s coolest neighbourhoods and where best to soak up the local life.

Osu If you want to get to the pulsing heart

& Grill where you’ll find some of the

of Accra’s energy and enterprise,

city’s best bands (and cocktails). If

head for the central suburb of Osu.

Osu’s bustle has you in need of some

Its commercial corridor Cantonments

relaxation, stretch away your stress at

Road – known to just about everyone

Bliss Yoga studios.

as ‘Oxford Street’ – is packed with bars, restaurants, fashion retailers

Eat/drink: If you can’t find what you

and market traders and stretches

want to eat in Osu, you are not hungry

all the way to the beaches and bars

– the choice is dizzying. For traditional

of Labadi. Osu can trace its origins

Ghanaian dishes, Buka is your best

to this coastline where it began

bet. It serves up classics such as grilled

as a fishing community among

tilapia and fufu with guinea fowl in a

the Ga people, but now it draws a

rich groundnut soup. Best to book as

young, trendy crowd, especially in

tables are highly prized.

the evening when the area’s bars,

Jamestown

nightclubs and live music venues host

Stay: Check out the stylish Villa

some of the city’s coolest acts.

Boutique or its newer sister guest

you visit Jamestown. It is Accra’s

houses, Olma Colonial Suites.

oldest and most historic neighbour-

Expect some striking contrasts when

Buy: Some of Accra’s most success-

hood with faded colonial fortifica-

ful homegrown fashion designers

tions dominating its landscape yet it

have outlets in Osu, including Christie Brown and milliner to the stars Velma Owusu-Bempah. You can also view and buy work by up-and-coming Accra artists at gallery The Container.

Do: Rub shoulders with Accra’s creative community at The Republic Bar 38

AMBIENCE The Bondai restaurant in Osu

This mix of hustle and history has attracted creatives from Ghana and abroad, bringing art, live music, food and cocktails with them

has become host to the city’s most forward thinking artistic events such as the flamboyant alfresco art festival Chale Wote – that takes over the neighbourhood every August – and the graffiti, rap and block-rocking beats of the Yoyo Tinz hip hop festival. There is poverty – the tightly

packed homes of the labyrinthine streets and by the harbour are little more than shacks with corrugated roofs – but there is a vibrancy here.

Jamestown life blasts at every sense from the perpetual smell of cured

CAPITAL VIEW The Sky Bar offers an panoramic perspective on the city

the 18th century and will certainly

See: Every Sunday evening just before

confound tourists – and experience

dusk the streets of Jamestown host

Accra in the raw at Jamestown.

the Accra Street Bike Weekender

Truba7113 / Shutterstock.com

Buy: About 15 minutes’ walk away is

with wheelies, wheel spins and plenty

Makola Market.

more safety-shy manoeuvres.

Do: For a great view of the city and

dance craze the Azonto was invented

the pirogue-packed harbour, climb

here – so check out the live bands at

to the top of the 28-metre-high

the Abajo Art Café.

when bike riders entertain the crowds

fish from the smokehouses – every home seems to have one – through the clamouring crowds at street football games or boxing bouts or the street sellers calling out their

Music is crucial to Jamestown life – LOOKOUT The Jamestown Lighthouse Elena Skalovskaia / Shutterstock.com

Jamestown Lighthouse. There are

deals to the colourful street art.

plenty of guides on hand to escort

Eat/drink: The Jamestown Art Café

This mix of hustle and history has

you for a fee. Bukom, a suburb of

was built by its owner architect Joe

attracted creatives from Ghana and

Jamestown, is renowned as a breed-

Addo, who has been a big part of the

abroad, bringing art, live music, food

ing ground for Ghanaian boxing

neighbourhood’s recent revival. It’s a

and cocktails with them. So, grab

talent and with around 30 gyms in

magical little sanctuary in the heart

a guide or join a walking tour – the

the area, there’s usually a bout you

of Jamestown and a great place for

maze of streets was designed to

can catch or you can strap on the

freshly prepared food, cocktails, live

deter marauding slave traders in

gloves yourself.

music and art exhibitions.

FLYafrica 39

East Legon Just 15 minutes’ drive from Kotoka International Airport will get you to

Laden with luxury hotels, restaurants, bars and shopping centres, Airport Residential is the fastest growing area of the city

the gated communities and opulent residential homes of East Legon. The exclusive area is home to many Accra celebrities, musicians, athletes and politicians and a series of upmarket restaurants, bars and shops now cater to this clientele. Add to this the presence of the University of Ghana campus as well as inclusive art venues such as the Nbuke Foundation and the headquarters of homegrown music label Zylofon Media – which has a roster of acts including Kumi Guitar, Obibini and Tiisha – and East Legon has become a high-end cultural hub.

Airport Residential

Buy: Ghana’s largest shopping centre,

Do: The Touch of Bronze Gallery

Accra Mall, offers clothing boutiques,

has an impressive range of cold cast

global sports brands, African fabrics

sculptures by Ghanaian artists.

and the country’s only multiplex

Work out at the Lizzy Sports Complex

see in Accra on arrival at Kotoka

cinema. One advantage of the often-

or swim at the Bedouin Pool Lounge.

International Airport and it’s quite an

SNACK SPOT Cuppa Cappucino

gridlocked traffic through the East

This is the first neighbourhood you’ll

introduction to the city. Laden with

Legon Tunnel is that it gives drivers

Eat/drink: Great salads and burgers

the chance to browse and buy from

until late at Starbites. For classic

the rows of roadside flower and plant

Ghanaian dishes head for Northern

sellers here.

Platter.

COFFEE CREATIVE Catch up on work at Accra Mall

luxury hotels, restaurants, bars and shopping centres, Airport Residential is the fastest growing area of the city and on its way to becoming the trendiest.

Buy: Add the finishing touch to your home at La Maison, which has an extensive range of interior décor and homeware.

Do: Get your cultural fix at the Alliance Française d’Accra, which has a diverse calendar of events from dance to live music to spoken word.

See: Move to the beats of the best DJs from Ghana and beyond at night club Carbon, which also offers incredible views over the city at night from its penthouse perch in Icon House.

Eat/drink: Accra is full of young entrepreneurs running start-ups from their lap-tops and Airport Residential’s choice of classy coffee shops are their offices of choice. Seek out Cuppa Cappucino for tip-top coffee, sandwiches and shakes served on a flower-festooned terrace.

40

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Tamale

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Abuja Lagos

Kumasi

Liberia

Takoradi

Explore West Africa with Africa World Airlines GHANA

Takoradi

LIBERIA

Accra

Takoradi Airport

Monrovia

Kotoka International Airport Capital city of Ghana with an estimated population of 2.27 million. Economic and administrative hub for Greater Accra region and home to Ghana’s government administration.

Kumasi Kumasi International Airport Located in Ashanti Region and one of Ghana’s biggest metropolitan areas with a population of 2.07 million.

Tamale Tamale Airport Capital of Ghana’s Northern Region and hub for administrative and commercial activities.

Port town combined with Sekondi to form Sekondi-Takoradi, capital of the Western Region.

NIGERIA

Roberts International Airport Capital and most populous city of Liberia with more than 1 million inhabitants.

Lagos

SIERRA LEONE

Murtala Muhammed International Airport

Freetown

Nigeria’s largest city and the most populous in Africa. Major financial centre and home to one of Africa’s biggest ports.

Capital of Sierra Leone and the country’s economic, financial, cultural and political centre.

Lungi International Airport

Abuja Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Capital of Nigeria and one of the fastest-growing cities in the world. Administrative and political centre of Nigeria.

Book online

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41

TRAVELinformation Before your flight

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Arrive at the airport at least two hours before the flight’s departure time and no later than 40 minutes before the flight’s departure time.

If you are a special needs passenger, arrive at the airport in ample time to allow the airport staff to process documents.

travel as an unaccompanied

responsibility for a UM’s

children mature enough to

actions. The parent/guardian

travel with limited supervision

agrees to hold AWA blame-

are allowed to travel as a UM.

less for any injuries to UM caused by or out of UM’s own

Details of parent/guardian

the UM with check-in, transfers

Check your seat assignment, which will be given to you at the airport.

attendant with observe and/

Enjoy complimentary snacks on selected flights.

8.

Sit back, relax and enjoy FLYafrica magazine!

Should the UM’s flight be

by a parent/guardian during

disrupted or should the guard-

reservation.

ian or parent fail to meet the UM on arrival, AWA is author-

Proof of age such as a valid

Hand luggage Excess baggage 42

ized to take necessary and

passport, birth certificate or

reasonable action under the

National Health Insurance card

circumstances. In the case of

must be presented at check-in.

the latter, the parent/guardian agrees to reimburse AWA for

AWA ground staff will assist and boarding.

Once on board, a flight

any expenses incurred.

Infants and toddlers AWA requires all children

or communicate with the UM

under two years old to be

periodically.

seated on the lap of an adult over 15 years of age. However,

The parent/guardian receiv-

a passenger may choose to

ing the UM should arrive at

purchase a seat for the infant

the gate 30 minutes prior to

as long as there is a proper

scheduled arrival and present

child restraint device.

valid photo ID to an AWA representative. AWA will not

Only one child is permitted

release a UM to anyone other

to sit on an adult’s lap. An addi-

than the designated parent/

tional seat must be purchased

guardian.

if one adult is travelling with two infants.

AWA reserves the right to AWA recommends that

may have been diverted or

a child over 20 kg in weight

cancelled due to weather or

should use a seat for a safer

operational disruptions.

and more comfortable flight.

Domestic Checked baggage

negligence.

destination must be provided

transport UMs on flights that

Baggage allowances

AWA does not accept

minor (UM) on AWA. Only

Check that your bags are within the correct weight and size limits for your product class (see table below).

7.

plane services.

Make sure you have the correct identification for check-in, such as a voter’s ID card, National Health Insurance card, driver’s licence or any form of government identification before you travel on AWA’s domestic routes and a valid passport on regional routes. A visa is required for non-ECOWAS passport holders. Without a valid physical government-issued ID you will not be checked in.

Pay close attention to the safety procedures outlined by the cabin crew and take note of your nearest exit.

UMs are only allowed to travel on non-stop or same-

Children aged five to 12 must

receiving a UM at final

During your flight

6.

Unaccompanied minors

23 kg

Regional 23 kg

One piece up to 5 kg and 1 handbag/laptop bag GHS 5/kg

US$ 3/kg

A new mother is permitted

Pre-boarding to find a

to fly 48 hours after a normal

suitable seat. Passengers with

delivery, provided that she has

disabilities are not permitted to

a certificate from her obstetri-

sit in the emergency exit rows.

cian stating she is fit to fly.

Receipt of checked-in Babies under 14 days old are not permitted to fly.

wheelchair or other assistance device upon disembarking or at baggage claim.

Passengers with reduced mobility

AWA is not insured, permitted or equipped for staff to

AWA provides assistance to

carry any passenger who

passengers with special needs

is unable to assist himself

during the reservation process,

or herself onboard an AWA

check-in, during the flight

aircraft, even if he or she is able

and at final destination. AWA

to walk but needs a trained and

will ensure provision of the

accredited bearer.

following: AWA is not equipped to Transport of passengers

transport medical oxygen or

with disabilities of any kind

other hazardous materials and/

unless there is a specific

or contained gas either in the

safety-related regulation that

passenger cabin or as cargo/

requires us not to do so.

baggage.

Transport of wheelchairs

AWA is not equipped to

or other assistance devices

transport passengers who

for personal use at no charge,

require stretchers, incubators,

in addition to enplaning and

respirators or other devices

deplaning. Attention should be

that may rely on aircraft power

brought to AWA representa-

supply.

tives of the person’s condition upon ticket purchase.

Fleet information Embraer ERJ-145LR Pregnant women

progressing without complications and stating the expected

Expectant mothers are

delivery date.

permitted to fly until the 28th week of pregnancy without a medical certificate.

Expectant mothers more than 34 weeks pregnant are not permitted to fly with AWA.

From the 28th to the 34th week of pregnancy, an

For pregnancies less than

expectant mother is required

28 weeks, passengers should

to provide a medical certifi-

possess an ante-natal card/

cate from her obstetrician

book stating the duration of

stating that the pregnancy is

pregnancy at the date of travel.

Length:

29.87 m / 98 ft 0 in

Height:

6.76 m / 22 ft 2 in

Wingspan:

20.04 m / 65 ft 9 in

Capacity: Engines:

50 passengers Rolls Royce AE 3007-A1 Turbofans

Range: Maximum speed: Number of aircraft:

2,870 km Mach 0.78 8 FLYafrica 43

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Get in touch

Email Contacts Concerns concerns@flyafricaworld.com Charters charters@flyafricaworld.com Local Offices Accra – Head Office

Tamale

UNA Homes Building 2nd/3rd floor Airport Bypass Road Airport City Road PMB CT67 Accra, Ghana

Airport Office Opening hours 06:00 - 17:30 (Daily)

Tel: +233 24 243 8888 +233 30 701 2024 Toll Free: 0800 200 200 Email: awaoffice@flyafricaworld.com Opening hours: 08.00-17.00 (Monday to Friday)

Town Office Tamale Teaching Hospital Road, opposite Ola Cathedral Church Opening hours 08:00 - 17:00 (Monday - Friday) 09:00 - 14:00 (Saturdays and Public Holidays) Tel: +233 30 297 4919

Kumasi Airport Office Opening hours 05:00 - 20:00 (Daily)

Regional Offices

Tel: +233 30 297 4918

Lagos

Takoradi Airport Office Opening hours 06:00 - 18:00 (Monday to Friday) 07:00 - 17:00 (Saturday) 08:00 - 18:00 (Sunday) Tel: +233 57 770 2854

Airport Office Room 2030 2nd floor (Airline floor), D wing Murtala Muhammed International Airport Ikeja, Lagos Tel: +234 1 342 7130/2 Email: sales.lagos@flyafricaworld.com

Opening hours 06:00 - 20:00 (Daily)

Monrovia, Liberia

Abuja

Opening hours: 08.00-17.00 (Daily)

Airport Office Public Concourse, Terminal C Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Tel: +234 90 9558 0924 +234 90 9558 0987 +234 90 9558 0960 Email: abuja.sales@flyafricaworld. com Opening hours 08:00 - 16:00 (Daily) Town Office No 5 Usuma Close (off Gana Street, Maitama District,Abuja,FCT.) Tel: +234 9085267693 Opening Hours 08:00-17:00 (Monday to Friday) 09:30-16:00 (Saturday)

Monrovia Airport Office Roberts International Airport, Lower Margibi County,

Book online 44

Tel: +231 888 434 421

Town Office Ground floor Asmar building, Adjacent Royal Grand hotel,15th street, Tubman boulevard, sinkor Tel: +231 77 044 4400 +231 77 545 0010 +231 77 044 4433 Email: sales@air-mc.com Opening hours: 09.00-17.00 (Monday to Saturday)

Freetown Airport Office Lungi International Airport Tel: +232 79 630 107 Opening hours 08:00 - 17:00 (Daily) Town Office 21/23 Siaka Stevens Street Tel: +232 79 630 103; +232 88 852 773 Opening hours: 09:00 - 17:00 ( Monday to Friday) 10:00 -13:00 (Saturday)

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