YOUR COMPLIMENTARY COPY
Touching Africa, Touching The World!
FLYafrica ISSUE 4
MAY-JULY 2019
PAGE 42
CASH FOR TRASH IN LAGOS PAGE 22
GHANA’S FASHION BLOGGERS
CHRISTIAN ATSU TALKS GOALS ON AND OFF THE PITCH
COMPETITION
WIN
A HANDCRAFTED FOOD PLATTER
Contents
PAGE 42
CASH-FOR-TRASH Winning in Lagos
Image: Nyancho Nwanri / Arete
Regulars
Features
3 Foreword
10 Christian Atsu
6 AWAworld
13 Hainan-AWA Foundation
Africa World Airlines Head Office - SSNIT Emporium Ground Floor, Airport City Liberation Road PMB CT67 Cantonment 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 Email: publishing@landmarine.com www.landmarine.com ADVERTISING: Matthew Jay, Sales Manager Tel: +44 (0)1206 752902 Cell: +44 (0)7714 448057 (WhatsApp) Email: flyafrica@landmarine.org 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. ©2019 Land & Marine Publications Ltd Cover image: John Janssen www.janssenfotografie.com
Making Ghana proud
7 EVENTScalendar
8 STARdestination
FLYafrica competition
What to see and do in the US capital
22 Fashion bloggers
25 INSIDER information
Sharing style tips with Ghana’s best
28 Oyinkan Braithwaite
26 STAYafrica
Sofitel Abidjan Hotel Ivoire
Writing talent’s deadly debut
30 Film: On The Run Following marathon runners in Freetown
32 AWApilots
Ghana-based home-decor design company
19 Washington DC
18 WINafrica
Spreading smiles across AWA network
16 Studio Badge
Lagos
Football star giving back to Ghana
Meet Cecilia Ade-Cole
34 TECHcorner
40 Time out in Takoradi 42 Cash-for-trash
Air travel gadgets
Scheme for a cleaner Lagos
36 DRIVEafrica VW T-Cross
AWA Information
38 INVESTMENT market review
Fixed income securities
Subscribe to FLYafrica
Email: subscribe@landmarine.org
Book online
4 AWAnews 45 AWAroutes 46 TRAVELinformation 48 AWAcontacts
flyAfricaWorld.com FLYafrica
1
Foreword
Welcome
MAKING GHANA PROUD Dear passengers,
On behalf of Africa World Airlines, I would like to welcome you to the fourth edition of FLYafrica, our inflight magazine. As usual it’s packed with exciting things to see and do across the AWA network as well as features on a host of West African stars. Among them is professional footballer Christian Atsu as our cover star. The winger, a key member of Ghana’s national team and English Premiership club Newcastle United, is a talented player and a proud Ghanaian. All here at AWA wish Christian and the rest of the Black Stars – as well as our West African friends, the Super Eagles of Nigeria – well at the Africa Cup of Nations in June. We’re also very proud of recent developments at AWA that show the airline, in its seventh year of operations, is becoming a major player in the aviation industry. The recent Memorandum of Understanding between AWA and South African Airways greatly expands our network (see Pages 19-21 for a feature on Washington DC, in the US, just one of the destinations AWA passengers can now seamlessly connect to as a result of the agreement).
AWA has also finalised a prestigious agreement with Emirates, which opens up our West African destinations to the global network of the world’s largest international airline, with passengers flying in to Accra from Dubai, China, India and Australia. February saw the arrival of the airline’s eighth Embraer ERJ-145LI, called ‘Romeo’, and the addition of four extra daily domestic flights between Accra and Kumasi. These flights are among those available at huge discounts in our WOW Wednesday offers. Keep an eye on AWA’s social media sites for when to claim the bargain tickets. The work AWA does through its charitable arm, the Hainan-AWA Foundation, is also a source of pride and inside you’ll find details about the worthy causes the foundation has been able to help.
COVER STAR Christian Atsu
Connect with AWA Facebook
www.facebook.com/ flyafricaworld
@flyafricaworld John Quan Chief Executive Officer Africa World Airlines
Book online
@flyafricaworld
flyAfricaWorld.com FLYafrica
3
AWAnews Emirates agreement links West Africa to world AWA and Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, have announced a one-way interline agreement which will open up new West African destinations to Emirates customers arriving in Accra from popular inbound markets such as Dubai, China, India and Australia. The agreement begins in May and enables Emirates passengers touching down in Accra on the airline’s market leading Boeing 777-300ER aircraft to transfer seamlessly to connecting flights to Kumasi, Tamale and Sekondi-Takoradi in Ghana as well as regional destinations Monrovia in Liberia and Freetown in Sierra Leone.
with up to ten flights daily to Kumasi, five flights daily each to Tamale, four to Takoradi and six weekly flights to Monrovia and Freetown.
‘Romeo’ joins the AWA fleet
Sean Mendis, Chief Operations Officer for Africa World Airlines, said: “Africa World Airlines is proud to partner with Emirates in order to connect passengers through our hub at the new Terminal 3 in Accra. Customers will enjoy seamless connections at the premier gateway to the West African region as a result of this new agreement.”
Wherefore art thou, Romeo? Answer: right here in Ghana after a 9,000 mile journey. AWA’s latest addition to its fleet, an Embraer ERJ-145LR aircraft called ‘Romeo’, arrived at Accra’s Kotoka International Airport in February after an epic journey that began in Tianjin, China. AWA’s Facebook followers were able to follow the jet’s progress with posts marking its touchdowns at Chiang Mai Airport (Thailand), Doha (Qatar), Jeddah (Saudi Arabia), Khartoum (Sudan) and N’Djamena (Chad) on the threeday, 9,000-mile journey to Accra.
From June 2 even more Emirates passengers will be able to take advantage of the agreement with the airline increasing its number of flights into Accra from seven to 11 every week. The agreement with AWA will further extend Emirates’ connectivity from Accra
Up to 10 flights daily between Accra and Kumasi AWA now offers additional flight options between Accra and Kumasi on weekday mornings. Passengers can now choose from up to 10 daily round trip flights between Accra and Kumasi. The new flights depart from Accra’s Kotoka International Airport at 6.15 am and 7am and from Kumasi International Airport at 7.25 am and 8.10 am.
AWA also now offers five return flights between Accra and Tamale on Fridays and Sundays. Business travellers or tourists can explore the spectacular Northern Region with flights departing Accra at 6.30 am, 9.30 am, 12.30 pm, 2.50 pm and 4 pm and from Tamale at 8 am, 11 am, 2 pm, 4.20 pm and 5.30 pm. To book tickets, visit flyAfricaWorld.com
Ensuring each stage of the journey was smooth and safe were Captain Ken Bruce-Tagoe, Captain Achilles Dumashie and Senior First Officer Quentin Quaye in the cockpit along with engineer Godfrey Tetteh-Cofie and dispatchers Courage Badohu and Guoliang ‘Charlie’ Li. The arrival of ‘Romeo’ brings AWA’s fleet of Embraer jets to eight and it will immediately go to work servicing the airline’s network of Ghana, Nigeria, Liberia, Côte d’Ivoire and Sierra Leone.
HOW TO BOOK Passengers can book flights online by visiting flyAfricaWorld.com and using the ‘Book A Flight’ function. You can then choose your flight, book your seats and select your payment method. AWA offers various methods of payment for customers in Ghana and Nigeria including debit/credit card, MTN Mobile Service (Ghana only), Quickteller (Nigeria only) and bank transfer. For detailed information, check out our website.
Book online 4
flyAfricaWorld.com
Telephone bookings can be made by calling +233 24 243 8888 or our
Toll free number:
0800 200 200
AWAworld
A round-up of West Africa news and events
Pavilion brings Lagos to London British-Nigerian designer Yinka Ilori is bringing the vibrancy of Lagos to London with his competition-winning pavilion design for Dulwich Picture Gallery. Ilori’s ‘The Colour Palace’ was chosen above entries from 150 other up-and-coming artists in a design competition co-hosted by the gallery and the London Festival of Architecture. The work – a rainbow-coloured castle created by overlapping layers of wooden boards, which have then been painted with alternating geometric patterns on each face – will be put up in the grounds of the gallery. It will become a stage for a series of talks, performances and yoga classes during the festival, which runs throughout June. Ilori says his design was inspired by the colourful Dutch wax prints found in the markets of Lagos and reflects London’s rich multicultural fabric, including the neighbouring district of Peckham, which is known as ‘Little Lagos’ because of its large Nigerian population. For more information, visit dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk
Championing chess “In the game of chess, a pawn can grow up to become a queen. You can grow up to be great even though you are still limited by this community,” says Nigerian professional chess player and coach Babatunde Onakoya. He is well placed to see the transformative qualities of the game. He was brought up in the slums of Lagos, but now he returns to help with the work of the charity Chess In Schools by using the game to educate children from underprivileged backgrounds. With his young students, Babatunde uses the tactics of the game to break down educational subjects such as maths, while also encouraging the idea of patience, strategy and even hope. Since the start of the initiative many of the children have voiced how it has improved their lives and three of the most promising young players have been awarded scholarships to pursue their education. For more information, visit chessinschools.co.uk/chess-in-africa On the other side of the world, another young Nigerian has been showing his chess skills. Eight-year-old Tanitoluwa
Emefa Jewellery When some of the most beautiful people in Ghana are looking for jewellery that makes them look even more stunning, it’s Emefa Jewellery that gets the call. Almost all beauty pageants in Ghana, including Miss Ghana, Miss Lux, Miss Tourism and Ghana’s Most Beautiful, feature crowns made by owner David Apim-Tetteh, a professional jeweller with over 30 years’ experience, and his team. The company, which has two shops in Accra and also sells its hand-made jewellery online, makes unique African rings, earrings, anklets, bracelets, bangles and beads. For more information, visit emefajewellery.com 6
APRIL
EVENTScalendar
19
Dipri Festival (Abidjan) There’s a chance to catch one of West Africa’s more unusual celebrations this month. The Dipri Festival takes place among the Abidji tribe in Gomon, just outside Abidjan, and its aim is to drive away evil spirits and purify the celebrants. Activities start in the evening with relatives and neighbours getting together to reconcile their differences and have a party. The chief of the tribe makes his appearance before sunrise and then there’s music – usually pounding drums – and people go into frenzied dances as they are possessed by
MAY
beneficial spirits. Quite a sight.
Adewumi, who has been living in a homeless shelter in New York since arriving with his family from Nigeria in 2017, has just been crowned New York State Primary Chess Champion in the kindergarten-to-third-grade bracket at the New York State Scholastic Championships. He outsmarted youngsters from top private schools with expensive chess tutors despite having taken up the game only a year previously. This is Tanitoluwa’s seventh chess trophy – he has now considered one of the top players in the United States for his age group – and he has already voiced hopes of becoming the youngest ever grandmaster.
Homowo (Accra) Ghana’s bustling capital is rarely described as quiet, but in the 30 days leading up to 14 May, when the Homowo Festival takes place, there’s a ban on drumming and noise-making on the streets of Accra. The noise returns once the festival gets going as it involves the ‘hooting at hunger’ as the Ga people commemorate a time in their history when a bumper harvest signalled recovery after years of drought and famine. Ga chiefs sprinkle kpokpoi or kpekple – a special dish prepared in the streets, made from cornmeal and palm oil – and there is folk singing, libation pouring and litanies said to the gods for another year of bountiful produce. Also included is Twins’ Day, when twins in the city dress in white calico and parade around. It’s one of the grandest festivals in Ghana.
Lagos Bridal Fashion Week
JULY
From 4 to 6 May the Federal Palace Hotel’s Balmoral Hall becomes the ultimate destination for bridal fashion. The event runs each day from 10 am until 10 pm. Visitors will find a host of interactive displays from a selection of the best wedding suppliers and bridal designers Africa has to offer. There will also be a series of runway shows with male and female models dressed in designers’ latest collections. If your big day is coming up, this event cannot be missed.
Republic Day (Ghana) Three years after becoming the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to gain independence, Ghana was proclaimed a republic with its own elected president. The inaugural president, Kwame Nkrumah, announced the country’s new status on 1 July 1960. The date is now celebrated annually as Republic Day. The day’s celebrations now also encompass Senior Citizens’ Day, on which the efforts and contributions to society of the elderly are recognised. A good day to visit the relatives.
FLYafrica
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STAR DESTINATION
Lagos
8
Carlos Fernández San Millán | Wikimedia Commons | CC-BY-SA-2.0
AWA is the largest international airline operator in Nigeria, with its flight schedule including five flights from Accra to Lagos every Thursday, Friday and Sunday. To celebrate this special relationship, we turn the spotlight on Nigeria’s capital and now officially Africa’s biggest city, with a population of over 21 million. The clamour of car horns in perma-jammed traffic is one result of such a spiralling population, but so, too, are an exploding arts and music scene, ambitious building developments and an active and diverse community. Lagos fizzes with life and energy – and to enjoy it you just have to jump in.
Agbaje Isabella | Wikimedia Commons | CC-BY-SA-4.0
CITY THAT NEVER SLEEPS Lagos
TRAVEL: AWA has five flights
legend Fela Kuti and in October
the bridge located in the
from Accra to Lagos every
hosts Felabration, one of the
restaurant. Visit terrakulture.
Thursday, Friday and Sunday.
biggest music festivals in Nigeria.
com
Flights depart from Kotoka
If you’re not here then, the venue
International Airport at 8.20 am,
still holds club nights every
11.10 am, 1.40 pm and 4.40 pm
Friday and Sunday. It was at
pm and 8.10 pm. To book your
one of these nights in 2017 that
ticket, visit flyAfricaWorld.com
saxophonist Femi Kuti, son of
SEE: Freedom Park This former colonial prison ground in downtown Lagos Island has been transformed into the city’s hub of arts and culture. It now houses a food court, a gallery and a museum and is a great place for live music and dance performances. Annual events to look out for at Freedom Park include the Eko Theatre Carnival, the Black History Month commemorations, the Lagos Reggae Festival and the Adire Heritage Festival. Owambe party If you really want to immerse yourself in the vibrant life of Lagos, get yourself invited to an Owambe party. You may well just walk into one taking over a street on a Saturday night and, if you match the glam dress code, you’ll be welcomed to join in the festivities. These grand affairs are usually planned months in advance for weddings, anniversaries and birthdays and
Fela and manager of the venue with his brother Yeni, broke the record for the longest note on a wind instrument – 51 minutes and 35 seconds. Hit the beaches Lagos is home to beaches fringed by palm trees with powdery white sand and some serious waves. They present an easily reachable opportunity to escape the bustle of the city. The man-made Tarkwa Beach is sheltered by a harbour so it offers safe, undertow-free swimming and also has a wide selection of shops selling food and local handicrafts. Eleko
Ikoyi Hotel Suya Suya is the king of street food for Lagosians. The blazingly spiced skewers of meat – anything from beef and goat to chicken, liver and kidney – are incredibly popular. The best in the city – though the quality comes at a price – is to be found in Glover Court, off Glover Road, in Ikoyi. The Jazzhole If there weren’t already enough reasons to visit this renowned bookshop, music store and live performance venue in Awolowo Road, in Ikoyi, it also has a lovely café. It offers nearly 40 varieties of tea in individual tin teapots and complements them with freshly made sandwiches and cakes. SLEEP: Bogobiri House
Beach, a 45-minute taxi ride from
This funky boutique hotel, in
downtown Lagos, is popular with
Ikoyi, has 16 rooms individually
local people, especially at the
decorated by local artists. It
weekends when it’s packed with
also draws in some of the city’s
barbecue parties and vendors
best musicians for regular live
selling fresh fruit, vegetables,
performances and its restaurant
fish, prawns and handicrafts.
is a sought-after dining spot
EAT: Terra Kulture The food court at Terra Kulture,
for on-trend Lagosians. Visit bogobiri.com
on Victoria Island, celebrates
The Wheatbaker
the best of Nigerian cuisine,
For a taste of the elite Lagos
offering a wide choice of locally
lifestyle, grab a night or two at
grown traditional dishes such
this luxurious establishment in
as ofada rice, catfish and boiled
the residential heart of Ikoyi. Its
yam or plantain. When visitors
secluded grounds and gorgeous
The New Afrika Shrine is the
have finished dining, they can
pool create a haven of relaxation
most electric live music spot
view the art on display from
and guests can also make use of
in Lagos. The open-air venue
new and emerging Nigerian
the hotel’s spa, two restaurants
in the mainland suburb of Ikeja
artists in the adjoining gallery
and gym. For more, visit
was built in tribute to Afro beat
space by travelling across
thewheatbakerlagos.com
involve a lot of food, dancing, loud music and spraying (the act of throwing money on a dancing person). DO: New Afrika Shrine
LAGOS CULTURE Femi Kuti (second from left)
FLYafrica
9
‘I don’t want any child to suffer like I did’
W
hen Arms Around the Child, a charity based in Ghana, India and
South Africa, chose professional footballer Christian Atsu as one of its key ambassadors, it was because his renown as a player for the Ghana international team and English Premiership side Newcastle United gave worldwide prominence to its work of providing homes, protection, education and support for orphans and other vulnerable children. But for the 27-year-old winger
Along with the rest of the country, AWA will be cheering on the Ghana national football team when the Africa Cup of Nations begins on 21 June. The Black Stars’ talismanic winger, Christian Atsu, speaks to Mark Edwards about why he believes 2019 could be the team’s year and the culture of kindness in his home country that he is doing much to continue.
Image: John Janssen www.janssenfotografie.com
with the nimble feet and blazing speed there are deep, personal reasons why the role means so much to him. Atsu was 13 years old and had just starting his football journey when his father died. The talented young player was boarding at Feyenoord African Academy, in Accra, more than 100 km away from the family home in Ada Foah when he heard the news. The emotion is still evident in his voice as he tells me about the events at home in Newcastle hours after a training session in preparation for the weekend’s game with fellow mid-table club Crystal Palace. “I had a very difficult time dealing with it,” he says. “My father died because our family didn’t have the
SHARING HIS SKILLS Atsu heads a football training session Image: Arms Around The Child
10
DEDICATED Atsu has helped improve the lives of many orphans in Ghana Image: Arms Around The Child
money to take him to hospital. It still
farming at the junction of the
affects me and now I feel that no
Volta River and the Atlantic
child should suffer. That is why my
Ocean to support their 10 chil-
work with Arms Around the Child
dren. From the age of seven,
is so important to me. I feel happy
Atsu would go to fish with his
when I help these kids. I’ve been with
father and help his mother sell
the charity a long time and it’s doing
kenkey at the local market. It
a great job.”
was, Atsu admits, “a difficult
The charity’s work has included supporting the lives of more than 50 orphans in Senya Beraku, a village
life, but we tried to be happy and have fun”. Football was definitely part
around a 90-minute drive along the
of the fun. Atsu would play
coast from Accra.
on pitches with more rocks
Giving back to Ghana
than grass or pick-up games of street football with friends.
“We are just trying to help these
During one of these kicka-
kids get a better education and
bouts, Atsu’s skills caught
have clean water and food,” he says.
the eye of the U-12s coach
“Little by little we are getting things
at Feyenoord Academy and he was
done. The children deserve educa-
invited to train with the team.
tion and respect.” Atsu is a humble man, despite his
I feel happy when I help these kids. I’ve been with the charity a long time and it’s doing a great job make a career for himself. The boots played their part. Atsu
The academy training sessions
felt special wearing them and played
drew crowds of local people keen
well in the tournament. It secured
achievements as a footballer and
to support young talent and watch
his future at Feyenoord Academy,
a philanthropist. When talk about
quality football. The way Atsu tells it,
where trained and studied until the
his footballing influences brings up
their support would often take the
age of 17, and has seen him go on to
former Ghana national team captain
form of handing over cash to players
reach the top flight of the UK club
Abedi Pele, Atsu rhapsodises about
who performed well after, or even
game and become an integral part
the older man’s dribbling skills. I
during, the game. “This is normal in
of the national team.
suggest these are qualities Atsu
Ghana when they see a good player,”
shares with his hero, but he immedi-
he says.
ately deflects the compliment with
Premiership player
Still, the 12-year-old Atsu was
His club career has taken an, at
“most Africans are confident on
shocked when, after one match,
times, circuitous route. He was
the ball”.
before he was due to play in a
at FC Porto in Portugal for two
Similarly, though Atsu’s dedication
trial tournament organised by the
years before he signed for Chelsea;
to his chosen charity’s cause is admi-
academy, a total stranger handed
however, he never played a minute
rable – he returns to the orphanage
him a new pair of football boots as
for the London side, instead
each football off-season bringing
he came off the field.
seeing himself loaned out to a
gifts such as Newcastle kit, boots
Atsu has never forgotten the
series of clubs, including Everton,
and sweets for the youngsters and
gesture. He has kept in touch with his
has been instrumental in securing
U-12 coach throughout his football
funding for the building of a nearby
career and has since found out the
school for 300 pupils – he says such
benefactor’s name is Joshua and he
efforts to help others do not single
is a mechanic from Achimota. Atsu
one of English football’s most vocif-
him out as special, but rather are
plans to meet him this June.
erously supported teams, back into
Joshua has made it clear he
and indeed across Africa, that one
doesn’t want anything in return for
should always help others.
his gift, but one gets the sense that
When he was a boy, Atsu was on
Atsu has already repaid him with
the receiving end of such altru-
exactly what he was hoping for –
ism. His parents didn’t have a lot of
that the young player would go on
money, eking out a living fishing and
to make the most of his talent and
Image: Arms Around The Child
part of a belief among Ghanaians,
CHARITY AMBASSADOR Working for Arms Around the Child
Bournemouth, Málaga (Spain) and Newcastle United. During his time with the last of these, Atsu was instrumental in getting the Magpies,
the Premiership. In 2017 Atsu and Newcastle United agreed a four-year deal, said to be worth £6.2 million, and two seasons in it seems to be working out for both of them, with Newcastle establishing themselves in the Premiership
FLYafrica
11
INSPIRATION Atsu with pupils in Senya Beraku
better. We have put that behind us. We know the fans are really interested and want the best for the country. That pressure is going to push us to win, I believe.” Atsu loves to represent his country and putting on the Black Stars shirt seems to bring the best out of him, with nine goals in his 42 Image: Arms Around The Child
caps. International duty is a chance to meet up with teammates usually scattered around the world with their club sides and play football the Ghanaian way – with a strong sense of fun and pride.
Playing with joy “Being in the national team is a great
and Atsu impressing with his speed
Black Stars, hoping to win the Africa
honour,” he says. “I am always happy
and cultured left foot.
Cup of Nations.
to meet my friends in the team. We
“I’m very happy here,” says Atsu.
It’s a competition with good
try to learn from one another. We
“I’ve been given a lot of chances
memories for Atsu. He first made
have a great team spirit. There are a
to show myself and I’m very happy
his name on the international stage
lot of jokes – especially from [experi-
with the staff, the players, coaches
in the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations
enced defender] John Boye. There is
and fans.”
held in Equatorial Guinea. The Black
so much joy and unity in the team.”
A nation expects
Stars winger was named player of
The atmosphere around Ghana’s
the tournament and also achieved
Africa Cup of Nations games is
He’s even starting to get used to the
goal of the tournament for an auda-
bound to be electric. Atsu talks
weather. The chilly north-east coast
cious shot, swung in with his left
warmly of the celebratory, party
is a world away from the palm-lined
foot from way out on the right wing,
atmosphere that international
beaches and sultry heat of Ada
that secured the team’s quarter-final
games create.
Foah, but Atsu is finding it’s a good
victory against Guinea.
place for a jog, although the chances
“There will always be people
Still Ghana were beaten in the final
dancing and singing around the
of him taking a dip in the North Sea
that year and bowed out in the semis
game,” he says. “It brings back
are always going to be slim.
in 2017. In fact, you have to go back
memories of my childhood playing
39 years for the last time the Black
football in Ghana. First we would
“The first time I was here I really struggled with the weather,” he
Stars held the trophy. Atsu says he
says. “It was very cold. But now
and his teammates are aware of the
I’m getting used to it. I’ve taken my
country’s expectations and, having
family to the beach and I go there to
finished top of their qualifying group,
run on the sand.”
believe they’re in the
along with kindness to others are
kind of form to go all
Ghanaian qualities entrenched
the way this year.
within Atsu and both will keep him
He says: “The
coming back to his home country
He has set up home in Newcastle with his wife, Marie-Claire, a make-up artist from Hamburg, and their two
COMING TO CAIRO Atsu is set for the Africa Cup of Nations
play football. It’s all part of the culture here.” This celebration of football
children. Both youngsters compete
players are really
no matter where his stellar football
with me for Atsu’s attention during
determined. And
career should take him.
our phone conversation.
we want to end this wait for victory in
If you would like to help Christian
a busy few months coming up and
the tournament. We
complete the school build, please
want to get as much time with him
have had chances
visit the Arms Around the Child
as they can. As well as ensuring
in the past and we
website armsaroundthechild.
Newcastle retain their Premiership
blame ourselves. It
charitycheckout.co.uk/donate
status through the season’s remain-
was difficult to lose in
ing games, Atsu will be going to
the semi-finals in 2017
Cairo in June with the rest of the
– the fans deserved
Perhaps they know their dad has
Image: John Janssen www.janssenfotografie.com
12
sing and dance and then we would
Foundation spreading smiles across AWA network The work of Africa World Airlines’ charitable wing, the Hainan-AWA Foundation, is committed to making life better for the underprivileged
S
ince Africa World Airlines began in
to the Hainan-AWA Foundation, you help
2012 it has embedded social impact
put a smile on someone’s face somewhere
into its company ethos. The airline
in Ghana and soon, to all the regions AWA
was given GHS 10,000 to support its
set up its benevolent wing, the Hainan-
flies through, the provision of education,
work with diabetic patients, Asogliu State
AWA Foundation, to provide humanitarian
food, health and even housing. By provid-
received GHS 5,000 to support its educa-
aid and services for the less privileged
ing these basic needs, the foundation aims
tional fund and the surgical ward of the 37
in society, regardless of geographical,
to help eradicate child poverty from the
Military Hospital in Accra received equip-
political or religious boundaries, and to
communities Africa World Airlines flies to.”
ment, including protective garments, face
The foundation has shown its commit-
masks, surgical gloves, surgical gowns and
help them maintain and improve their livelihood. The focus throughout has been on children – as they represent the future of the West African community the airline works
Orphanage in Abossey Okai. In addition, the Tamale Teaching Hospital
ment to the cause during its years of opera-
theatre caps, to improve health care and
tion. Every year has seen donations that
reduce the risk to health care providers.
change the lives of the needy and sick.
The Hainan-AWA Foundation appeals to all of us to put a smile on someone’s
within. In the past seven years the founda-
Projects supported
tion has supported various worthwhile
In September 2013 the foundation marked
projects to help those who need it most.
AWA’s first anniversary by donating to
In 2019 the goal is to support education
the Frafraha Children’s Home in Accra.
Make a donation
across the AWA network.
This was followed in subsequent years by
During your AWA flight, cabin crew
support for Osu Children’s Home and the
will be walking down the aircraft with a
says: “The foundation aims to improve the
University of Ghana’s sports department
collection envelope for contributions to
quality of life for children. When you donate
in Accra as well as the Centre of Hope
the Hainan-AWA Foundation.
AWA’s head of quality, Benedictus Seshie,
SUPPORT Donating to the Osu Children’s Home
DONATION Backing for the University of Ghana sports department
face, irrespective of race, religion, colour, sex or creed.
CHEQUE A donation to the 37 Military Hospital surgical ward
FLYafrica
13
The
platters that matter Studio Badge’s range of super-stylish handcrafted food platters, bowls and vases provides a showcase for the design talent and rich timber resources of Ghana. Does your food deserve them?
J
ust as the effect of every great
neem and mansonia because they
painting can be heightened
have extremely beautiful grains,
by the right frame, so in
are excellent hardwoods and are
this Instagram age, when food
food-safe. The colours, patterns
has to look as good as it tastes to
and other characteristics that we
earn photo-sharing cachet, plat-
get from these woods are really
ters matter as a base to culinary
one of a kind. We are always
creations.
looking for more species to add to
This was clearly at the forefront of
As well as drawing on Ghana’s
pal of Studio Badge, when designing
rich timber resources, Studio Badge
the Ghanaian home-decor design
produces a range of platters made
company’s range of sleek and unique
from a far more unexpected material
wooden and concrete platters.
– concrete. One of Studio Badge’s
relatable, loveable and, of course,
best-selling products is the Mini
beautiful.”
“I love to cook and to present food
PERSONAL TOUCH The platters can be inscribed
by adding colour and putting it in a form that brings it into a home in a very intimate way, it becomes
beautifully, so this was definitely at
Aitch concrete platter, made from a
the very top of my mind when I was
combination of Ghanaian teak and
Versatility and beauty
designing the platters,” says Leonie.
concrete.
The concrete food platters are
“I chose wood species that had more
“Concrete is definitely not a typical
subtle grains so they complemented
home goods material and that’s
rather than competed with the food
exactly why I chose it,” says Leonie. “I
served on them. The colours that we
love that it’s considered a hard-core
pick for the platters are also meant
building material and I love that,
to play nice with food, so there is a
finished with a VOC-free sealant that makes them completely safe to eat TALENTED TEAM Leonie Badger, centre, working on designs
directly from. A finish of mineral oil, beeswax and carnauba has the same effect on the wooden platters. The combination of versatility
lot of careful consideration that goes
and beauty that concrete brings
into the design.”
is a key part of the Studio Badge
The wood for these platters is
aesthetic, says Leonie. “The idea of
all kiln-dried and grown in Ghana.
a dusty pink or soft blue concrete
Leonie says Ghana has the best
food-serving platter just struck me
wood in the world and it plays a
as audacious, bold and fun and that
big role in the singularity of Studio
is exactly what I am trying to achieve
Badge’s products.
with Studio Badge products. The
“Ghana has incredibly beautiful
juxtaposition of a hard material in
wood. We are a major exporter
soft colours and in the heart of a
of timber and there are furniture
home continues to inspire me.”
producers all over the world that
16
our material list.”
the thinking of Leonie Badger, princi-
Leonie’s “love affair” with concrete
rely on our wood to make premium
first flowered as an architecture and
products. I selected walnut, teak,
management student in the United
Demand for the products, which are handcrafted in small batches, has been high, with designs such as Lush, which features a plantain leaf motif illustrated by Ghanaian artist Na Chainkua Reindorf, already sold out. Local restaurants such as Sunshine Salads, Café Kwae and the Royal Senchi are using Studio Badge products in their service and they’re proving very popular with tourists searching for an example of quality Ghanaian design.
I want to create products that can be integrated seamlessly into any home or lifestyle space
The individual quality of the handmade products – variations in colour, shading, texture, shape and grain are inherent in each Studio Badge product – can be made even more personal with a name or special message engraved on the platters. This has proved a favourite for
An early supporter of Leonie’s
wedding and special occasion gifts.
vision was Aisha Ayensu, founder of
States. “I fell deeply in love with the texture, character and strength of
the luxury women’s fashion brand
A special gift
Christie Brown. Leonie was commis-
“I love that our products mean so
sioned to makeover the designer’s
much to people that they often
studio and produce new furniture
think about someone special to gift
for it.
them with before even buying them
Leonie put together a team of
for themselves,” says Leonie. “The
concrete as a material,” she says. “I
two craftsmen who have years of
was inspired by architects like Tadao
experience in carpentry and wood-
Ando from Japan and Ghana’s own
turning and Studio Badge was
David Adjaye, who really looked at
born at a studio in Osu. Initially the
the range of effects that one can
focus was on furniture and lighting,
rate, Leonie says the next step is to
achieve with concrete.”
but soon the company moved into
expand to other stores in Accra and
lifestyle products such as platters,
to other African countries. “We have
bowls and vases.
our eyes on Nigeria, Kenya, South
Once her studies were over, Leonie worked in construction and was impressed by the quality of the craftsmen she was working with on
In high demand
site. An idea began to hatch that
“I love that someone can pick up a
would utilise the wealth of natural
product like one of our food platters
materials and talented artisans
and easily bring it into their home or
here to transform the perception of
gift it to a loved one,” says Leonie.
African-made goods. “When most people think about
The products are classic with simple, geometric shapes and very
FOOD FRAME One of the concrete platters
majority of our gift recipients come back to the store themselves to discover and indulge further.” With demand growing at such a
Africa, Ivory Coast and Senegal in Africa, and also the US,” she says. Set your Instagram filters in anticipation.
Need to know
African-made products, they usually
clean, straight lines used to express
Studio Badge products are available from its work-
think about products that fall a bit
that minimalist look. This is home-
shop at F457/1, Salem Ave, Osu, Accra and online at
low on the quality spectrum and we
ware to be savoured and saved.
www.studiobadge.com. The company offers delivery services in Accra and usually completes orders in 24
want to change that completely,”
Leonie says: “I want to create
says Leonie. “High quality comes
products that can be integrated
to 48 hours. It can also arrange international deliveries
with a meticulous attention to detail
seamlessly into any home or lifestyle
via DHL upon request.
and a commitment to continue to
space and that one would be happy
refine. The dream is to be able to
to have around for years on end.
Opening hours for the Osu store are Monday to Friday,
do this at a very large scale and to
Studio Badge pieces are meant to
10 am to 6 pm, and Saturdays, 10 am to 2 pm (except
inspire other African makers.”
get better with time.”
on special event days). FLYafrica
17
WINafrica
ER N IN W
FLYafrica competition
Francis Add ai
A chance to win one of Studio Badge’s best-selling platters Studio Badge’s handcrafted platters showcase the best in Ghanaian wood, concrete and design. Its products are unique, practical and beautiful as well as being highly sought-after. FLYafrica readers have the chance to own one of the company’s best-selling products in this edition’s competition. The Mini Aitch platter is made of pink-dyed concrete and wood, looks stunning and is divinely smooth to the touch. It’s sure to help everything you like to eat look as good as it tastes. To be in with a chance of winning the prize, answer the three questions below and send them, along with a picture of you holding Issue 4 of FLYafrica, to awacompetition@landmarine.org Good luck!
QUESTIONS
ER N IN W
Afia Appia
Congratulations to last issue’s lucky winners who won a dining experience at Urban Grill
1. Name two types of Ghanaian wood used to create Studio Badge’s platters? 2. Which building in Washington DC has the address 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue? 3. In which Nigerian city does Wecyclers operate?
COMPETITION TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Closing date is July 28 2019. Photographs should be sent along with your entry. One entry per person. Entrants must be 18 or over. The winning entry will be selected by Land & Marine Publications Ltd. This competition is not open to employees of Africa World Airlines, Studio Badge or Land & Marine Publications Ltd.
flyAfricaWorld.com 18
YO LOX P E R I E N C E S . C O M
In the last issue’s competition we had two vouchers worth GHS 500 each to spend at Urban Grill, one of Accra’s leading restaurants, up for grabs. The lucky winners were Francis Addai and Afia Appiah. Congratulations to you both and thanks for flying AWA.
EXPLORING BEYOND THE WHITE HOUSE IN
Washington DC The recently agreed Memorandum of Understanding between Africa World Airlines and South African Airways creates an expanded network for both carriers as well as seamless connections at their respective hubs in Accra and Johannesburg. Among the amazing destinations to which AWA passengers in Accra can now fly directly is Washington DC – so FLYafrica has put together a top 10 of places to visit in America’s capital.
1
The White House
Visitors from around the world come to see the home and office of the United States President. It may be Donald Trump munching cheeseburgers in the presidential bed now, but The White House has been home to every US head of state since John Adams, the second president to be sworn in, after the first, George Washington, selected the site for the building at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. The historic structure has been expanded and renovated many times since then and it currently has 132 rooms on six levels, some of which can be explored by the public. Free public tours are limited to groups of 10 or more and non-US citizens need to contact their embassy in DC well ahead of their visit. Otherwise, there is the newly renovated White House Visitor Centre next door, while Lafayette Park offers fantastic views of the front of the iconic building. Whitehouse.gov
2
The Smithsonian Museums
Culture vultures who love their museums will be in heaven in Washington DC. They are everywhere. Most are under the auspices of The Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum, education and research complex, which has 19 freeto-look-around museums in the city. Many are within walking distance of each other in National Mall – ideal for a day’s museum mooching. Among them are the National Air and Space Museum, the American History Museum and the Natural History Museum. The latter is famous for its enormous prehistoric white shark and a 45.5 carat jewel known as the Hope Diamond. si.edu
3
The Lincoln Memorial
This 99 ft-high tribute to Abraham Lincoln was modelled on the ancient Greek temple, the Parthenon, with its imposing Doric columns – 36 of them to symbolise the number of US states at the time the country’s 16th president, who paved the way for the abolition of slavery in the US, was assassinated. Centrepieces of the memorial are an enormous marble statue of a seated Lincoln and an inscription of his Gettysburg Address. The memorial steps have been the site of many more famous pieces of oratory – chief among them Martin Luther King’s civil rights speech ‘I Have A Dream’ – and also hosted the concert to welcome in the inauguration of President Barack Obama. They also provide fantastic views of Capitol Hill and the Potomac River. The memorial is open to look around day and night, while rangers are on hand to offer guided tours from 10 am to 11 pm. abrahamlincolnonline.org FLYafrica
19
4
The Newseum
5
Billy Martin’s Tavern
Tony Webster | Wikimedia Commons | CC-BY-SA-2.0
Since the 1960s journos have been flocking to this bar and restaurant in Georgetown, one of the liveliest parts of the city. It wasn’t just the quality food and drink that drew them – there was breaking news to be found at the tables. It was John F. Kennedy’s local (he is said to have proposed to the future Jackie Kennedy here) and he rarely missed the Sunday brunch – understandable, as the choice and servings are huge and the home-made creamed chipped beef has become a city favourite. Martins-tavern.com
20
6
DavidNNP / Shutterstock.com
A museum not part of the Smithsonian complex, but well worth a visit, is this tribute to journalism. Its entrance contains a gallery that displays the front pages of daily newspapers around the world, updated each day. The many interactive features include the chance to record your piece to camera. You’ll also find the largest display of sections of the Berlin Wall outside of Germany within an exhibition on how the media contributing to bringing down the border between East and West Germany. Even if you’re not a newshound, the sixth-floor terrace of the museum offers panoramic views of Pennsylvania Avenue. Newseum.org
Dupont Circle
Fancy yourself as a bit of chess grandmaster? Well, prepare to have your skills severely tested at the parkcum-roundabout at historic Dupont Circle. Every evening it attracts some of the city’s best chess players and you can give them a game for a fee you’ll agree with your opponent. The range is usually between US$ 2 and US$ 100, depending on your affluence. If you’re a beginner, ask for a lesson instead of a game. Either way, you’re going to get schooled.
7
Busboys and Poets For a city often portrayed as the capital of the free world, Washington DC is very racially segregated. One of the few places where white and black hang out after work is this restaurant, book shop, performance venue and community gathering place. Busboys and Poets – the name refers to American poet Langston Hughes, who worked as a busboy at the Wardman Park Hotel in the 1920s, before he gained recognition as a poet – was established in 2005 as a centre of opposition to the US involvement in Iraq. It has now expanded to six outlets in the city, with its flagship location in the U Street Corridor, known as ‘Black Broadway’ in the 1920s, putting on spoken-word concerts every Tuesday evening. busboysandpoets.com
8 Naveed Ashraf / Shutterstock.com
International Spy Museum
Yes, it’s another museum, but it’s a lot of fun and has just reopened in a gleaming new location at L’Enfant Plaza. There’s plenty to learn here about the history of spying, but visitors also get to assume a false identity, with lots of tests along the way to check if you can remember all your details. Spymuseum.org DavidNNP / Shutterstock.com
DC is a great place to explore by bicycle. There are trails to follow and hire shops to grab some two-wheeled transport. Rock Creek Park’s paths are mostly flat and at the weekends the area is closed to cars, allowing a healthy escape from the city’s bustle. Another option is to follow the Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) Canal out of the city. You can ride for just a few miles or follow it 200 miles to its end. The hire shop Big Wheel Bikes is only a few yards from the canal. Bigwheelbikes.com
10
The Peacock Room
Another museum – did I mention there are a lot in DC? – but the Freer Gallery, on Jefferson Drive, is definitely worth a look for this breathtakingly opulent room. This reinstallation has lifted the contents of what was originally the dining room in the London home of wealthy shipowner Frederick Richards Leyland. He was one of James McNeill Whistler’s leading patrons and the artist designed the masterpiece of interior decorative mural art – a vision in blue and gold to set off the more than 250 sumptuous Far Eastern ceramics on display. freersackler.si.edu
Kamira / Shutterstock.com
9
Bike trails
FLYafrica
21
SHARING STYLE TIPS WITH
GHANA’S TOP FASHION BLOGGERS Fashion used to be seen as an elitist industry, but social media has changed that. Now, style bloggers in Ghana are showcasing the latest looks not through glamorous fashion shoots but by showing how clothes are worn on the street. The best of these influencers attract followers in their thousands, all looking for achievable style tips and creative looks they can emulate. In the wake of Wear Ghana Month, we look at five of the best fashion blogs to follow which promote Ghanaian culture and the fashion industry.
Tracy Jamilatu Iddrisu
A. Fashion has always been part of my life.
to the dictates of my religion, too. I don’t
Sites: blog, Stylebytrey. blogspot.com; Instagram: @Empress_jamila
However, I got into the business of fashion
believe in being trashy for a lack of a better
probably five years ago after an old mentor
word to be sexy. I’m a woman and that
spoke to me about it and believed my
alone makes me sexy.
Followers: 189k Signature style: ‘Elegance and class but with a touch of modesty’
talent could be harnessed. I’ve always been inspired by my twin mothers who raised
Q. Where do you source your clothes
me. I learnt to dress up and style my looks
from?
just like them. Even up to this day, I take
A. Actually, I’m a personal shopper. I shop
style advice from them. I’m more like an
exclusively for clients who have a tight
improved version of them.
schedule and can’t have the time to do that. As such I source most of my outfits
Q. What effect do you aim to have with
from Ghanaian/African designers and other
Award-winning fashion stylist and
your blog?
world brands when I’m tasked to travel to
personal shopper Tracy Jamilatu Iddrisu,
A. Style By Trey as a blog has always been
shop for clients. A lot of the designers have
known as ‘Jamila’ by her army of fans, has
my little safe space. I love to express my
grown to become friends.
perfected the look of a host of stars from
style, mood and ideas through the blog. It’s
the entertainment and fashion world. She
been life-changing helping young African
Q. Are you able to make an income from
sources most of her outfits from Ghanaian
women put oomph and panache in their
your blog?
and African designers and models many
outfits. The main aim is to educate people
A. Yes, it’s been very profitable. I’ve gained
of them on her social media platforms to
and, of course, make money. Making
several gigs and ambassadorial deals from
inspire her followers. She also drops regular
money through fashion continues to be
the blog. I’ve been privileged to work with
fashion knowledge bombs on her blog.
the goal.
Mövenpick hotels, Vlisco and other interna-
Her style is polished, body-conscious and
22
tional brands.
sophisticated. Here, the ‘CEO of Empress
Q. What is your signature style?
Jamila’ talks about her work to FLYafrica.
A. My signature style is elegance and class
Q. What are your ambitions for your blog
but with a touch of modesty. I come from
and your work in fashion?
Q. How did you become interested in
a family of staunch Muslims and Christians
A. To be a powerhouse and authority in
fashion?
alike. I’m Christian and so I dress according
fashion. I want to be able to collaborate
Finders Keepers Outfits Site: @finderskeepersoutfits Followers: 3.9k Signature style: Funky thrift store fashions Takoradi-born Daniel Quist is synonymous with street style in Ghana. He has brought his eye for characterful clothing combinations to collaborations with hipster DJ Steloo and Ghanaian hip hop stars Akan, M.anifest and Gasmilla. His most long-standing partnership, though, is with photographer Francis Kokoroko. The pair set up The Studio Accra, which hosts events from music to spoken word poetry, film screenings, exhibitions and pop-ups, but the trendy twosome
Afua Rida Site: website www.styledbyrida.com Instragram @afuarida Followers: 116k Signature style: Classy and effortless with plenty of Afrocentric splashes of colour.
are also the curators of an Instagram account and digital store called Finders
This former model, now stylist, blogger and
Keepers Outfits, a collection of the
runway show producer shares tips on how
coolest discoveries from Accra’s thrift
to create your own style and be confident in
markets. Their vintage finds are bold,
what you wear. If you need some personal
with renowned brands to create collec-
bright and take a certain confidence
styling, want a wardrobe revamp or have a
tions that are representative of the African
to pull off – Quist has been known to
wedding coming up where you need to look
woman. Guest blogging for Vogue,
wear a motorcycle helmet indoors – but
your glamorous best, Afua can help. She
Harper’s Bazaar and Elle magazine is also
certainly make a strong statement. The
honed her skills working for Ghana fashion
on the list of things I want to be able to
pair have worked with brands such as
styling company House of Cramer, but now
do. And, of course, make so much money
Ghanaian socks-with-attitude company
has set out alone with her styling touches
that I cannot even spend while travelling
Chale Socks and social enterprise
all over photo shoots for clients such as
the world.
Sibhale Africa.
African head wrap designers Loza Tam and TV actress Joslyn Dumas. She is passionate
Q. Who or what are your inspirations?
about champion-
A. My twin mothers are my inspiration in
ing the work of
life. They are my source of joy and pride.
Ghanaian design-
Juggling all my different hats as a style
ers and works
blogger, personal stylist, event organ-
to promote the
iser/planner, entrepreneur and many
untapped talent
more is tough but I do it for them. I’m
here by nurturing
also inspired by the 21st-century African
younger models
woman, who is independent and limitless.
and stylists
They’re goal-getters and passionate. I do
looking to break
this for them because the future is female
into the fashion
and African.
industry.
FLYafrica 23
Hayet Rida Sites: Instagram hayet.rida website hayetrida.com Followers: 64k Signature style: Day-to-day fashion, both smart and casual, for stylish, busy women. Born in Ghana, but now living in Chicago, Hayet Rida is a plus-size model, stylist and blogger. Her Instagram site and blog are full of images of Hayet modelling outfits
Papa Oppong
fuller figure. Should you want to copy any
actress Rosario Dawson and fashion
of these looks, the site also has links to
marketing expert Abrima Erwiah with
the website of the labels she wears and
bases in New York and Accra. Despite the
partners with. The website and blog are
American and European interest, he has
a celebration of self-love and positivity
chosen to work on “building a beautiful,
and Hayet’s ‘seize the day’ outlook has
simple fashion label which aims to be an
inspired more than 64,000 followers
ode to the African woman” in Accra. Papa’s
who admire themselves in whatever they
fashion shows in the city stay long in the
decide to wear. Hayet admits she has not
Freelance fashion illustrator and designer,
memory. He shares a love for shocking his
always had such a good relationship with
art director and creative consultant Papa
audience with one of his fashion influences,
the way she looks and some of the posts
Oppong Bediako first gained fame through
the British designer Alexander McQueen,
on her warm and confessional blog act as
his Instagram account. His wonderful
and one recent show saw him saw him
reminders to others who may be similarly
artwork of strong yet feminine women –
transforming the Birkenstock shop in Accra
plagued with insecurity that there is a way
either drawn by hand or digitally illustrated
into a fantasy girls’ dormitory to showcase a
to happiness and fulfilment.
on his iPad – drew global interest, with
capsule collection of eight pieces presented
those impressed including American singer
in collaboration with the iconic German
Rihanna, who has since become a muse
shoemaker. He is still a regular Instagram
for Papa. Since graduating from Accra’s
user and the blog acts as an outlet for ideas
Radford University College with a fashion
for this restlessly creative designer. It’s full
degree, Papa has worked with clients such
of his latest illustrations and photo shoots
as crystal jewellers Swarovski and MAC
and is essential viewing for any fashion
Cosmetics. He also interned with Studio
obsessive.
Sites: Instagram @papaoppong website papaoppong.com Followers: 18.2k Signature style: Cutting-edge fashion for strong women
24
and accessories that flatter and flaunt her 189 – a fashion label set up by American
INSIDER information Terrazzo is on trend The speckled mosaic of marbled scraps known as terrazzo was first used by Venetian craftsmen as a flooring technique in the 18th century, but still looks cutting-edge in modern interiors. When created with contemporary colours, it can bring interest and texture to a wide range of furniture, lighting and wallpaper. Time to add that special speckle to your home. ART OF ABSTRACT TERRAZZO WALLPAPER www.mindtheg.com US$ 197 for three rolls
TERRAZZO CUSHION www.einrichten-design.de US$ 60 YES STUDIO HAND CREAM MINTY ELDERFLOWER www.store.wildandwolf.co.uk US$ 9.95
ALFOMBRA VINĂ?LICA TERRAZZO RUG www.aixo.es US$ 196
TERRAZZO BLOOMINGVILLE LAMP www.aixo.es US$ 94
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MATRIX LAMPSHADE www.madebyhandonline.com US$ 190
All products displayed can be shipped to all countries globally.
DORIS SPLATTER TEACUP AND SAUCER www.sweetpeaandwillow.com US$ 23.50
FLYafrica 25
STAYafrica
French luxury, African charm Flagship hotel is a hub of culture in vibrant Ivorian capital
T
he Sofitel Abidjan Hotel Ivoire is so much more than a hotel. It stands colossal overlooking the Ébrié Lagoon in the chic district of Cocody in the north of the city. Inside you’ll find a staggering selection of amenities – among them a 3D cinema, a bakery, four restaurants, four bars and a shopping mall as well as a ballroom that can accommodate 3,000 guests and has hosted fashion shows and art exhibitions. It has become the cultural hub of this vibrant city, with some of the capital’s most prestigious events taking place within its elegant interiors and a star-studded guest list that has only this month included rock star Bono and US businesswoman and fashion designer Ivanka Trump.
skyscrapers, and called the Hotel Ivoire.
touches bring warmth and vibrancy.
In 2012 it was taken over by Sofitel,
The hotel’s meetings and events venue,
which began an extensive renovation of
the Palais des Congrès, has been
the building to turn it into the French-
updated using the latest architectural
owned luxury hotel franchise’s flagship
techniques, including its façade – all
establishment in West Africa, catering
7,700 square metres of it – being
for business and leisure travellers.
fitted with customised Corian panels.
Stunning renovations Guests at the five-star hotel can take advantage of these features as well as the hotel’s convenient location in the Cote D’Ivoire capital, close to Cocody University, foreign embassies and Abidjan’s cultural attractions. Le Plateau business district and Felix Houphouet Boigny Airport are just a short drive away. The hotel has been an iconic part of the Abidjan skyline since 1963. It was built by Romanian-Israeli architect Moshe Mayer, renowned for his luxury 26
The results of the renovation are, quite
The new look further enhances the building’s standing as Abidjan’s premier
simply, stunning. The Sofitel Abidjan
MICE venue. Its 1,650-seat auditorium,
now has 423 rooms, including a range
with its dome of scarlet webbing, has a
of luxury suites, across its two main
state-of-the-art audiovisual system for
buildings, the 23-storey Tour Ivoire
powerful work seminars and the space
and the cavernous Palace Ivoire. All
can accommodate up to 3,000 people
rooms have undergone a makeover,
as a ballroom for events or weddings.
blending French luxury with African
Across the hotel there are 18 rooms for
charm. Artwork by renowned French
events hosting and the hotel can take
environmentalist and photographer
care of every detail, from waiting staff
Yann Arthus-Bernard adorns the walls
through specially created menus to
and some African chic interior design
cocktails in the gardens.
Renovations have also included the
If you want a chocolate hit on the run,
introduction of a spa at the hotel.
grab a snack from the hotel’s very own
SoSPA nestles among the hotel’s
bakery, Grignotine, which brings a
lush gardens, with its tranquil, refined
touch of cocoa to its pastry classics.
interiors designed by French-Ivorian artist Valérie Oka. This stunning spa has won a World Luxury Spa Award every year since its inception in 2017. More pampering opportunities abound at Sofitel Abidjan’s steam room and relaxation lounge, suffused with aromatic essences. Guests and the public can also sculpt their bodies at the 24-hour gym or swim in the hotel’s pool, which follows the curves of the lagoon around the hotel and is fringed by coconut palm trees.
Choice of cuisine For more substantial bites, Sofitel Abidjan has a choice of four restaurants offering a blend of French, African and international cuisine. All bar one of the restaurants is in the running for this year’s World Luxury Restaurant Awards. Among the
Sofitel Abidjan at a glance
of Abidjan’) on the top floor of the
423 luxuriously appointed rooms,
Tour Ivoire. It offers delicious French
including spacious suites and
dishes that draw on freshly caught fish
apartments
and local produce and, as you would
Four restaurants – you’d expect winning Gallic cuisine from Sofitel, but dishes also encompass Ivorian classics and international fare
expect from such a vantage point,
as an oasis. Among the hotel’s four bars
incredible views of the city.
meals. The Cacao Lounge, in the lobby, affords wonderful views of the pool and the lagoon beyond. Here you can enjoy freshly brewed coffee, cocktails and handmade chocolate treats
hair salon, a casino, an art gallery and a theatre.
nominees is the Toit d’Abidjan (‘Roof
You don’t have to get wet to enjoy such is one offering poolside drinks and light
what this vast hotel offers. A thorough search will also uncover a 3D cinema showing the latest big-screen releases, a shopping mall selling luxury African fashion and jewellery, a
Those in search of more international fare can head for the Gourmandise, which runs an all-day buffet and offers outdoor dining on its terrace. Its Sunday brunch draws a crowd.
showcasing the country’s status as the
Such an array of amenities, but I have
world’s largest cocoa producer.
really only scratched the surface of
Health and fitness – the hotel has an award-winning spa as well as a roundthe-clock gym, a swimming pool, a tennis court and a nearby golf course. Meetings and events – the Palais des Congrès has a 1,650-seat auditorium and a ballroom, La Patinoire, that can accommodate 2,500 people. FLYafrica 27
Writing talent’s deadly debut Blood is thicker than water in the darkly comic novella ‘My Sister, The Serial Killer’ as two sisters form a murderous alliance. Its Nigerian author, Oyinkan Braithwaite, reveals her inspirations, her reactions to the book’s immediate international success – and why she hasn’t yet told her grandmother the full title of the book. Q. It’s been a long time since I’ve
Q. Another theme of the book
read an opening paragraph to a
seems to be the power of beauty.
novel that grabbed me as much as
Ayoola seems to be able to get
‘My Sister The Serial Killer’ – “Ayola
away with just about anything
summons me with these words:
because she is so physically
Korede, I killed him. I had hoped
attractive?
I would never hear those words
A. Yes, the theme of beauty, or
again.” How long did it take to get
rather society’s engagement
the opening right?
with beauty, was the theme at the
A. These two sentences were the
forefront of my mind when I was
very first sentences I wrote, in the
writing this novel. The story is a bit
very first draft. The thing about a
of an exaggeration, but I do find that
good first sentence is that it propels
society has an unhealthy relationship
dren in Nigeria. I am fortunate that,
you forward, as a reader but also as
with outward beauty.
for the most part, my parents have
INSTANT SUCCESS The novella has proved an international hit
a writer. And since I am not really a
communication and understanding between parents and chil-
been conscious of this and have
planner, the sentence helped me to
Q. I have read that you are afraid
understand the tone of the novel and
to tell your grandmother the full
where I was going to go next. I recall
title of the book and your mother
Q. The novel has been praised for
playing with the word ‘summons’
and father have not read it in full as
its evocation of Lagos life. How
but I don’t remember what its
they feel it is ‘too dark’ for them. In
important was it for you to set
predecessor was.
the novel itself there does seem to
events in the Nigerian capital?
be a chasm of understanding and
A. I didn’t overthink it. I picked
Q. Do you see the novel as feminist?
outlook between generations. Is
Nigeria because I live here. If I was
The depiction of men in the novel is
that something you feel is particu-
living somewhere else at the time,
far from flattering – from the over-
larly strident in Nigeria?
I would probably have set it there.
bearing, alcoholic father to Tade,
A. My father completed the book
But setting it in Nigeria was perfect
who seems honourable at first but
towards the end of last year, so, yay!
because it made it a tad more plau-
is shown in a new light when he falls
And yes, I am under the impres-
sible that the sisters got away with
for Ayoola – while there is a twisted
sion that there is often a lack of
certain things.
done their best to bridge the gap.
sisterhood and strength between Korede and Ayoola? A. I wasn’t trying to write a feminist novel, but I am attracted to strong female characters and I am glad that people appreciate that. However, I believe the women in this particular novel were just as despicable as the men.
28
I wasn’t trying to write a feminist novel, but I am attracted to strong female characters and I am glad that people appreciate that
Q. I have read you like to write quickly before your conscience can hold you back. Do the results shock you as well? A. I don’t know that the results shock me. I am an overthinker, so writing quickly allows me to write freely.
All pictures by Amaal Said
OYINKAN BRAITHWAITE ‘The world is dark enough already, it doesn’t need my help’
Q. What was your inspiration, literary or otherwise, for the novel? A. I was inspired by the research I had done on the black widow spider in the past. I was also inspired by anime. I watch a lot of Japanese animation and I admire how they make seemingly ridiculous concepts work. Q. Despite the dark subject matter, there is plenty of humour in the book and the tone is quite light and arch. Why did you do this? A. I can write purely dark content, but the world is so dark already, it doesn’t really need my help. I guess I didn’t want to stay immersed in darkness for the entire time it takes to write a novel. If it were a short story, I may not have felt compelled to keep it light. Q. I hear the book has already been optioned for a film by the producers of ‘Baby Driver’. Are you excited at the prospect and what has been your reaction to how successful the book has been in Nigeria and now across the world? A. I am very excited, and I feel incredibly blessed. As for the success of the book, I wasn’t expecting it and I am so grateful to my agent and my publishers. Their faith in the book is what has taken it to where it is. Q. Do you still do performance poetry? What do you like about it? A. I don’t do performance poetry as much, mostly because it is nervewracking – standing on stage, having strangers staring at you and waiting for you to say something profound. I am not entirely sure what I like about it, or even that I like it…I did it once, the reaction was positive,
‘My Sister, The Serial Killer’ is available at all good bookshops across West Africa and also online at Amazon. For more information on Oyinkan and her work, visit oyinkanbraithwaite.com
and so I kept on doing it. I like watching other people do it.
FLYafrica 29
FILM
ON THE RUN When award-winning film director Leanne Welham began to document the efforts of two struggling athletes to put Sierra Leone on the distance running map, she had no idea she would be at the heart of a news story that spread across the world.
F
is not a popular sport in Sierra Leone, distance running especially, so the pair train with sprinters or alone. Despite both recording the country’s best-ever marathon times for their sex, they receive little in the way of funding so both work full-time, Mamie as a police officer
ilm director Leanne Welham
which follows the efforts of a pair of
is a definite name to watch.
marathon runners from Sierra Leone
She received huge acclaim
to reach the top of their sport. Begun
and Idrissa delivering coffee. Even HUGE ACCLAIM Leanne’s feature-length drama Pili
getting enough food is a struggle and both athletes have seen their
for ‘Pili’, her recently released
in 2014, Leanne’s debut docu-
feature-length drama about a
mentary premieres this year. The
woman living with HIV in rural
unbelievable events captured in the
Tanzania, and now has studio
film made news headlines around
crowdfunding organisation Freetown
backing to direct ‘The Warning’, a
the world and those four years were
Fashpack, which champions Sierra
thriller based on an original idea by
packed with drama.
Leonean talent in sport, art and
Leanne and set in 1940 during the Blitz when Britain was relentless
Struggle
bombed by the German Luftwaffe.
The documentary focuses on
However, her next work to hit the big screen will be ‘Keep On Running’, 30
MARATHON DREAM Jo Dunlop and Idrissa Kargbo in ‘Keep On Running’
Freetown athletes Idrissa Kargbo and Mamie Konneh Lahun. Athletics
training regime disrupted by doses of malaria. Still, when Jo Dunlop, head of
music, saw the two running around the Freetown track, their abilities were obvious. She sought to arrange opportunities for the pair to test themselves
against the world’s best and put Sierra Leone distance running on the map. She secured Idrissa a place in the New York Marathon and entered both athletes in the London Marathon. Both events did not go to plan. Idrissa, used to the humid running conditions in his home
We were surprised by the media coverage. The police tweeted about Mamie as a missing person and all of the news outlets ran with it
just Idrissa and Mamie but many of the athletes that used to hang out at the national stadium. I think she became their de facto manager by accident really. Nobody else, certainly not the government, was interested in helping them attend races.
country, struggled in the November chill of the Big Apple, finishing in 2
International Development]. I met Jo
Q. What challenges for the athletes
hours 58 minutes, well short of his
and we became friends. She told me
did you witness?
national record of 2 hours 35 minutes
about Idrissa smashing the national
A. Mamie used to earn about $90 a
and ending up in hospital with
record with no training and that
month in her job as a police traffic
exposure.
she planned to help him achieve his
officer, a relatively decent wage for
dream of becoming a world class
Freetown. Idrissa was unemployed
far better – Mamie finished in 20th
athlete. I thought that it was fascinat-
and effectively homeless, staying
place, setting a new national record
ing and would make a great subject
with friends and family. Both told me
– but post-race events attracted the
for a documentary. I was interested
they found it hard to find the money
attention of the British police and
to see how far they could go.
to eat the food they needed to train
In London, the race results were
international media. Moments after
hard. Idrissa would often skip meals
finishing the race, Mamie could not
Q. The film has a drama at its heart
entirely. Neither of them had enough
be found and it was revealed she had
that you can’t have been expecting
money, nutrition or time to train
absconded.
at the start of the project. What do
properly.
This is only the beginning of the
you remember about filming the
story in which Leanne, Idrissa and
2014 London Marathon?
Q. Do you intend for the film to be
Jo feared for the safety of a woman
A. It was a very surreal day. We were
shown in Sierra Leone?
who had become their friend and
so worried that Mamie was simply
A. I do plan to screen the film at the
were concerned about how the
lost or potentially in danger that
national stadium for the athletes
event would affect her future as a
when we realised she had abscond-
and the public and I hope the film
Sierra Leone athlete.
ed it was almost a relief. Then the
will start a conversation in Freetown
gravity of what that would mean for
about supporting local talent.
It’s a gripping tale and one that emphasises the often lonely battle
Mamie and for Idrissa and Jo began
these athletes undergo to be the
to sink in. We were totally surprised
Q. Ultimately, what do you hope
best they can be. Here, FLYafrica
by the media coverage. The police
viewers take away from this film?
talks to Leanne about how she tried
tweeted about Mamie as a missing
A. I hope they are entertained first
to remain detached from events as
person and all of the news outlets
and foremost! I didn’t set out to tell
they unfolded and her admiration for
ran with it.
people a particular message with this
the athletes and Jo.
film; rather, I wanted to follow Idrissa Q. What impressed you most about
Q. This is your debut documentary
Mamie?
film, but has been four years in the
A. Mamie was always a bit of a
making and still not released. Why
closed book, fairly reserved and
has it taken so long?
quiet. Her huge determination was
A. This film began life as a self-
always evident. She was incredibly
funded project, meaning myself and
talented and ambitious and wanted
others involved in the film have had
to be the best in Africa. I really
to fit this around paid work. And the
admired her drive.
and Jo on their journey to achieve a LEANNE WELHAM ‘I hope the film encompasses some of the crazy energy of Freetown’
sporting dream, something anyone can relate to. I hope it encompasses some of the crazy energy, colour and humour of Freetown.
nature of observational documentary means that I wasn’t really sure
Q. Are Mamie and Idrissa heroes in
where the end of the story was until
Sierra Leone?
it happened, four years after I began
A. Mamie was a star in Freetown and
filming.
is still well known. Idrissa became well known after smashing the
Q. What began your involvement in
national record.
the film? A. I had been in Sierra Leone visit-
Q. What drove Jo to take on
ing my brother who worked there
managing the athletes?
for DFID [the Department For
A. Jo became good mates with not FLYafrica
31
AWApilots follow their dreams of a career among the clouds. Here, Cecilia – known as ‘Cici’ to her friends – talks to FLYafrica about the rigorous training she had to undergo, what flying feels like and her ambitions in the aviation industry. Q. Did you always want to be a pilot? A. As most children, I had dreams of becoming a lot of things when I was younger, but strangely being a pilot was never one of them. For the longest time I wanted to become an engineer, but around the time that I found out about flight school I wanted to become a biochemist. That dream was very quickly replaced by my passion and love for flying and from then on my desire was only to become a pilot. Q. When you said you wanted to pursue a career as a pilot, were you encouraged at school and by your family? A. My family was a little apprehensive about me becoming a pilot at first. But
‘Flying is the best feeling in the world’
they still encouraged me to pursue what I loved after they saw that my passion for it wouldn’t falter. Now they are my greatest support and recently got to fly with me for the very first time, which was superexciting for us all! Q. You went to flight school aged 19. Had you had any flight experience prior to this? A. Before I went to flight school I had no prior flight experience. My only encounter with aeroplanes was as a passenger and plane-spotting at the airport. Q. I believe the course was intensive – all
32
your study and flight time packed into two
any women will have heard
M
Globally, just over five per cent of
of, and battled against, the
commercial pilots are women, accord-
glass ceiling in their profes-
ing to the Air Line Pilots Association,
as I was living there at that point in time.
sional career – but what about the cloud
the world’s largest pilots’ union. Africa
I’m part-Norwegian and moved between
ceiling? While airline passengers are used
World Airlines now has a female pilot
Ghana and Norway with my family through-
to being looked after by female flight
among its ranks, Cecilia Ade-Cole, who
out my childhood. Flight school was very
attendants, a woman in the cockpit is still
is a junior first officer flying Embraer
intensive and there wasn’t much time for
a rarity. When was the last time you heard
145 jets across the airline’s network.
any breaks. At times it was extremely
a female voice come on the PA system
And AWA hopes more young women
overwhelming and I felt I couldn’t do it,
talking flight routes?
will be inspired by Cecilia’s example and
but with amazing colleagues, friends and
years. Can you describe the experience? A. I went to flight school in Norway
As I was drawing nearer to the end of my training, AWA were hiring and I knew that was where I wanted to work Q. Why did you choose to fly with AWA?
relatively short runway, which sometimes
How encouraging have the company and
makes for some challenging landings, but
the other pilots been to you as a young
there’s always a feeling of great accom-
female pilot?
plishment when I make a good landing
A. I always knew I wanted to move home
there. The landscape around Takoradi
to work and fly here in Ghana. Africa
also makes the approach very nice and
World Airlines had already built up a great
picturesque.
company with a good route network and a safety standard unlike any other airline in
Q. What do you enjoy most about being
Ghana. As I was drawing nearer to the end
a pilot?
of my training, AWA were hiring and I knew
A. I love my job. I love that almost no two
that was where I wanted to work.
days are the same. Even though I might
I am so glad I’ve gotten the chance to
be operating the same route, weather and
work with the airline of my choice. The
airport conditions means there’s always
company and the other pilots have been
something new. I also like that I get to take
amazing to me. They never thought of me
passengers where they need to go and that
as any different than the other pilots and
I get to give them a nice flying experience.
have always pushed me to be the best I can be. At the moment I am the only
Q. What ambitions do you have for your
female pilot in the company, so I do stand
future as a pilot?
out a little.
A. For my future as a pilot I first of all want to make the upgrade from first officer to
family around me to cheer me on, I made it
Q. What kind of reaction do you get from
senior first officer, hopefully within the next
through the tough times.
passengers when they see you on board
year. Then after that gain enough to one
the plane?
day become a captain. I also would love the
Q. Do you remember your first flying
A. I get mostly positive reactions from
chance to one day be able to fly long-haul
hours? Can you describe the sensation of
passengers when we walk through the
flights halfway around the world.
flight – being in control of an aircraft?
terminals or they see me in the cockpit. A
A. I remember my first flight very well. It
lot of people wave and look excited and a
was a beautiful autumn morning with not
few people even come by the cockpit to say
a cloud in the sky. My flight instructor gave
‘Hi’ at times, which is always nice.
me the controls to do the first take-off all on my own and to my surprise I did it and
Q. Do you think women make good pilots?
it was a smooth and good take-off. The
A. I think anyone who is passionate about
sensation I got on that first take-off, and
their job and flying makes a good pilot,
on every take-off since, is almost inde-
regardless of gender, but I definitely believe
scribable. There’s something incredible
that women are and can be great pilots.
about feeling that power from the engine,
holding those controls in your hands as the
Q. What is your favourite place to fly into
aircraft builds up speed down the runway
on the AWA network and why?
– and the feeling when you first lift off the
A. Hmmm, a difficult question. I love all
ground is exhilarating. The best feeling in
the routes and destinations, but I think
the world!
Takoradi will have to be my favourite. It’s a
Book online
Connect with AWA Facebook
www.facebook.com/ flyafricaworld
@flyafricaworld
@flyafricaworld
flyAfricaWorld.com FLYafrica 33
TECHcorner Travel gadgets As trendy as it may be to unplug on vacation and immerse yourself in your new surroundings, when it comes to air travel it’s perfectly understandable to take advantage of technological innovations to help the journey fly by. AWA’s experienced and friendly crew members will do all they can to help you enjoy your time in the air, but here are some ingenious bits of kit to ensure flight comfort and joy.
The Face Cradle www.kickstarter.com/face-cradle
If you’re really into your music, trying to listen to it on an aeroplane can be frustrating, whether you’re in economy or business class. Every track seems to arrive remixed with some engine hum and the refrain of ‘seatbelts on’ alerts. However, these Audio Technica ATH-ANC33iS QuietPoint in-ear headphones create a noise-cancelling wave that acts as a noise eraser. Up to 90 per cent of background noise is removed, allowing you to focus on your music. The ultra-compact headphones are ideal for travel – they come with an aeroplane adapter - and even contain an inline microphone so you can answer phone calls and control your music.
The best-selling travel pillow in crowdfunding history gives air travellers an upgrade to sleeping class. For those who struggle to nod off in an upright position, this flexible memory foam device can be strapped to the back of an aircraft seat to form a cradle you can lean into. The flexible device can be adjusted to suit a variety of positions to find your sleep spot, including being folded down into a standard neck pillow. It now comes in a lighter version, so it’s even easier to slot into your hand luggage and ensure a revivifying nap during your flight.
Price: US$ 79.99
Price: US$ 49.99
Audio Technica active noise cancelling in-ear headphones www.audio-technica.com
34
Travelmate travelmaterobotics.com Airports are all the same – thousands of holidaymakers dragging their suitcases around like recalcitrant children. But what if your baggage followed you to check-in like a devoted cocker spaniel without you even having to touch it? Well, Travelmate is the first ever robot assistant and autonomous suitcase. Smart Features like obstacle avoidance and the Follow Me system put Travelmate at the leading edge of AI and autonomous movement technology. The robot suitcase is Bluetooth linked to its owner’s mobile phone app and will dynamically optimise its movements and adjust to the speed of movement. It includes a GPS chip that helps orientate the suitcase and allows the owner to know its location at all times. Travelmate is approved for use on all airlines. It’s not cheap, but this could be the future of travel baggage.
eGeeTouch www.egeetouch.com
Air travel is exciting and there’s so much to distract you – such as the chatter of your fellow passengers, the amazing views from the windows and the wonderful in-flight magazine – so zoning out to ensure you arrive at your destination fresh and raring to go can be a problem. Step forward the Ostrich Pillow Loop. With its microbead-filled pads, which loop across the eyes, it provides an instant blackout effect and cushions the head. The design of this 2012 invention, which was crowdfunded into production, means you can also wear a pair of headphones for flotation-tank-level escapism. There’s very little chance of being interrupted from your cocoon-like slumber by an attentive steward enquiring if you’d like a hot drink, because once you strap this beauty on, you will look completely mad and everyone will be giving you a very wide berth.
Luggage security is a big concern for many travellers, but suitcase locks can come with their own problems. You need a key, which can easily be lost, or you have to make its tiny digit-wheels line up for your combination code, which in the heat of the moment can be forgotten. No such issues with the eGeeTouch, a Bluetooth luggage lock embedded with intelligent proximity access technology. Its smart padlock can be paired with your mobile device (Android and iOS smartphones) through the eGeeTouch app. The app will open the lock – an NFC fob is also provide if you forget your phone – and, thanks to a smart microchip tag in the lock, will also track your luggage so there are never any problems with identifying your luggage on the carousel. To keep the contents of your luggage safe, the locks are pre-programmed with a similar algorithm system to that used in online banking, with multiple security layers preventing unauthorised attempts to extract information. Peace of mind for world travellers.
Price: US$ 29
Price: US$ 49.99
Price: US$ 1,099-1,495 (depending on size of suitcase) Free shipping worldwide
The Ostrich Pillow Loop eu.ostrichpillow.com
FLYafrica 35
INVESTMENT market review Brought to you by: Strategic African Securities Limited
Investing in Fixed Income Securities The team at Strategic African Securities Limited reveals how fixed income products work and how they can reduce risk and create a predictable income stream for investors. For an investor, adding fixed income products to the investment portfolio is a great way to achieve diversification. In times of equity market downturn, fixed income products may offset underperforming returns on stocks while lowering the overall risk of the portfolio. Fixed income securities, such as treasury bills and bonds and money market instruments, typically offer a predictable stream of interest income on a fixed principal maturity value.
What fixed income instruments are available in Ghana? Many kinds of fixed income products are available to investors in the market, from treasury bills to government and corporate notes and bonds.
38
Government of Ghana Treasury Bills Security Tenor Days to Coupon Maturity Descriptions Maturity Rates Date GHTB 0 07/15/19 GHTB 0 10/14/19
91 182
88 179
N/A N/A
Offer
7/15/2019 14.71% 10/14/2019 15.10%
Cocoa Bills Security Tenor Days to Coupon Maturity Descriptions Maturity Rates Date GCOCOA 07/04/19 GCOCOA 07/11/19 GCOCOA 09/19/19
182 182 182
77 84 154
N/A N/A N/A
7/4/2019 7/11/2019 9/19/2019
Offer 17.40% 17.40% 17.40%
Government of Ghana Bonds Security Tenor Days to Coupon Maturity Descriptions Maturity Rates Date HGB 181/4 09/21/20 GHGB 24.75 03/01/21 GHGB 21 01/27/25
3yr 5yr 6yr
522 683 2111
18.25% 9/21/2020 24.75% 3/1/2021 21.00% 1/27/2025
Offer 18.40% 18.40% 19.00%
Corporate Bonds Security Tenor Days to Coupon Maturity Descriptions Maturity Rates Date ESLAGH 19 10/23/24 7yr ESLAGH 19.50 10/27/27 10yr
2015 3114
19.00% 19.50%
Offer
10/23/2024 19.00% 10/27/2027 19.00%
Source: SAS Fixed Income Desk, 18th April, 2019
Treasury bills/notes (T-Bills)
dates, either at maturity for
are short-term money market
short-term instruments like
instruments issued by Bank of
T-Bills or on quarterly or semi-
Ghana or the Government of
annual bases for Treasury bonds
Ghana to borrow funds from the
for example. These payments
public for monetary operations
provide an investor with regular
or to fund fiscal operations. The
and predictable income. Interest
Government also issues notes
income is not the only way
and bonds in longer maturities
a fixed income product can
for development finance.
generate returns for the investor.
Treasury securities include the 91-day Treasury Bill, 182-day Treasury Bill, one and two-year Treasury Notes, and 3,5,6,7, 10
The market price of a bond or a longer term instrument can change over time with changes in general interest rate levels.
and 15-Year Bonds. 91-day and
Flexibility at Maturity: At
182-day Treasury Bills are issued
maturity, an investor’s account
once a week while one-year
is instantly credited with the full
Treasury Notes are issued once
principal value of the investment.
every two weeks. Treasury Bonds
Upon instructions, all or a part
are issued once a month.
of the funds (accrued interest
Commercial paper, certificate of deposits, corporate notes and bonds are money market instruments and other fixed
investment of about GH¢500, an investor can purchase T-Bills, treasury notes and bonds and other fixed income investments in the primary or secondary markets just as easily as he or she would stocks. Fixed income exposure can also be gained through a number of mutual funds. Other benefits: Some investors use treasury security holdings as collateral for a loan whiles other use their investment statements for proof of net-worth when applying for immigration visas at embassies.
and principal) can be re-invested (Roll-over) immediately or transferred to the investor’s bank account or a cheque is issued.
income products issued by
Liquidity: Treasury securities
corporates to fund business or
and fixed income instruments
organisational operations.
can be sold relatively easily or re-discounted at any time before
Money market products mature
maturity, through the secondary
in less than a year. Products with
market process.
longer maturities often deliver higher yields than products with
Safety/ Risk Rating: Fixed
shorter maturities.
income instruments carry less risk than stocks or shares.
Clients are also able to access
Treasury bills, notes and bonds
investment in Ghana’s issued
are rated as ‘risk free’ because
Eurobonds, whose interest
they are issued by and backed
and principal payments are
by the full faith and credit of the
denominated in US Dollars,
Government of Ghana. Corporate
and also the three-year
bonds carry a little more risk
USD-denominated bonds issued
compared to treasuries and
in the domestic market by the
therefore pay higher coupons
Government in 2017.
or interest rates to compensate investors.
Why do investors buy fixed income products? Income: Most fixed income products typically pay a competitive fixed rate of interest on scheduled amortization
Who can buy treasury securities and other fixed income instruments? Trading in treasury bonds as well as corporate bonds is open to Ghanaians and foreigners while the buying and selling of treasury bills and notes is open only to resident and non-resident Ghanaian citizens and institutions.
Taxation: Treasury bills and bonds issued by the Government of Ghana are tax free for individuals. Ghanaian corporates incur withholding tax of 8.00% on interest income. Convenience: With a minimum
Find out more Strategic African Securities Limited, 14th Floor, World Trade Centre, Independence Avenue, Accra Tel: +233 302 661 990 / 770 / 900 / 008 Email: info@sasghana.com, research@sasghana.com www.sasghana.com
FLYafrica 39
TIME OUT IN
Takoradi Everyone, it seems, wants a part of ‘Oil City’ Takoradi and AWA has increased its number of flights there to accommodate the booming interest. We now fly four times each way between Accra and Takoradi, or ‘Tadi’ as it’s known here, every day of the week. As to why you need to visit, we’ve got 10 reasons, ranging from the essential to the downright bizarre.
1
It’s Ghana’s ‘Oil City’
Takoradi was once a sleepy fishing village, but that all changed after it was chosen as Ghana’s first deepwater seaport and huge oil reserves – estimated at 3 million barrels – were found off its coast. Over 40 international oil companies have established operations in the city since 2007, bringing with them a stack of new job opportunities. There’s a qualified workforce here to take them now as the oil boom has also led to expanded university-level technical training programmes. Office blocks and housing estates along with new hotels and restaurants have sprung up to house and feed the inundation of oil rig workers, engineers and business people.
40
2
It’s where the streets have new names
Over the past few years a massive project to map the streets of Takoradi and its sister city, Sekondi, has taken place. Using Google Map Maker to convert aerial photographs into maps, the non-profit organisation Global Communities has given close to 4,000 streets a name and over 42,000 homes now have street addresses. Street names were decided in collaboration with residents – giving rise to choices such as Termite Alley and Permafrost Street – so now tourists won’t get lost when they’re exploring and people in the city can receive mail, shop online and be easily located by emergency services. The address system also means residents can be taxed - vital in financing basic services in a growing city.
3
It’s the birthplace of Pappy Kojo
The hip hop star, who recently released his new trap-infused single ‘Balance’, featuring Ghanaian rappers Joey B and Nshorna Muzik, is from the Fanti tribe and Takoradi is his home town. ‘Oil City’ is also the birthplace of rapper Kofi Kinaata and actress Nadia Buari.
4
It’s getting a new airport
Takoradi Airport, a military aerodrome that was used by the Royal Air Force and the United States Army Air Force during the Second World War and now caters for AWA’s daily flights to and from Accra, is set to be replaced. Construction is set to begin this year to create a modern terminal and a cargo hub.
5
It’s the setting for a fictional murder mystery You know your city’s profile is rising when an established author sets one of his popular crime novels there. Kwei Quartey is a Ghana-born, US-based writer renowned for his Darko Dawson series of novels. One of the most recent, ‘Murder At Cape Three Points’, is set in Takoradi and features Inspector Dawson delving deep into the greed and corruption of the oil rush as he searches for answers after two corpses are found adrift near a deepwater oil rig. Who was the murderer and what is the significance of the 19th-century pocket watch with a scrawled inscription invoking blood ties found with the dead? ‘Murder At Cape Three Points’, along with the rest of the Darko Dawson series, is available on Amazon.
image: Kittling Books
6
It has secluded beaches to escape the urban tumult
It’s just a couple of miles from Takoradi’s commercial centre to the coast, but its serene beachfronts are a world away from the city’s hubbub. Closest of all is Busua Pleasure Beach, fringed by restaurants selling screamingly fresh seafood. Boats can be hired to visit offshore islands. Further away, about 25 km from Tadi but worth the trip, is Axim Beach, with beautiful white sand beaches and a host of water sports to try. It also has an inland lagoon for swimming, which is very welcome as the currents here can be strong.
8
It’s got Ghana’s craziest market
Market Circle is the beating heart of Takoradi. This raucous circular market is a disorientating frenzy of colour, noise and smells. There’s nowhere really for it to grow as the city booms, so every spare space is taken. Plans have been mooted to give it a much-needed makeover, as has happened to the tune of US$ 298 million with Kumasi Market, but even now it’s worth experiencing. You’ll find sellers parading past with a bewildering array of goods balanced on their heads, while further into the centre an almost exclusively female sales force can be seen hawking colourful vegetables, chilli peppers, fish and a variety of meat.
10
7
It’s a place even crabs fall for
If you’re walking Takoradi’s beaches at night, best watch your step as crab traps are popular. Holes are dug in the sand deep enough to fit a wooden barrel inside. It’s then covered with a rubber sheet, and sand and palm nut husks are placed on top. Crabs scavenging on the beach at night are attracted by the husks and plunge into the barrel. In the morning the barrel should contain the main ingredient of the delicious Ghanaian dish akotonshi or stuffed crabs.
9
It has a great selection of quality hotels
The waves of visitors brought in by the business boom here have led to a quality crop of hotels, especially in the beachfront area, to accommodate them. One of the newest hotels in the city is the Best Western Plus Atlantic Hotel, which is just steps from the beach and has its own restaurant and pool. Doubles, with buffet breakfast included, start at US$ 140. For a more boutique beach experience, there’s the exclusive and rustic Veivaag Lodge, which has double rooms with an ocean view from US$ 100.
It has a lively harbour (but not on Tuesdays)
The fishermen’s harbour in Takoradi is a hectic place, especially when the boats come in and the frenzied buying and selling of the catch begins. These chaotic transactions are carried out almost exclusively by women, although it’s strictly taboo for them to participate in the activity of fishing itself. It’s also forbidden for anyone to fish on Tuesdays. Almost all the tribes along the Ghana coast worship the sea as a goddess and they believe Tuesday is the day she spends time with her fish family. FLYafrica
41
Cash-for-trash Scheme opens way to a cleaner Lagos Lagos recycling-for-rewards start-up Wecyclers has just won the lucrative King Baudouin African Development Prize, which could help roll out the social enterprise across Nigeria and, in time, Africa.
E
very week in Lagos, Nigeria,
collect – which they can redeem for
a team of purple-T-shirted
essential goods such as food and
young men and women
household items – Wecyclers has
Nigeria and across the continent. Such ambitions were given a boost in March when Wecyclers was
riding motorised tricycles, vans
managed to incentivise a sizeable
chosen above 200 other applica-
and trucks weave amid the densely
sector of the Lagos population
tions to be awarded the 2018-2019
populated slum neighbourhoods
previously unmoved by the need to
King Baudouin African Development
to pick up recyclable waste such as
recycle.
Prize, worth €200,000 (US$
plastics, cans and sachets in a bid to
Since Wecyclers began in 2012 –
225,000).
improve environmental sustainabil-
when the team’s collectors would
ity and community health.
travel by bicycle – its chief executive,
that improve quality of life and
In this ever-swelling megac-
The prize recognises initiatives
Wale Adebiyi, says it has collected
empower local people to take their
ity, where 18 million-plus residents
about 5,000 tonnes of recycla-
future into their own hands.
generate 15,000 tonnes of waste per
ble waste, given more than US$
day and there are towering landfill
100,000 as rewards to residents and
sites in most districts, this may seem
seen more than 17,000 Lagosians
a Sisyphean task; but Wecyclers, the
subscribe to the scheme.
Nigerian start-up behind the venture,
42
WINNERS Wecyclers has won a number of awards
has found a way to the heart of the
Growing success
problem.
The company’s founder, the Lagos
By rewarding low-income
born and raised Bilikiss Adebiyi
residents with points based on
hopes the success in her home
the weight of recyclables they
town will translate to other cities in
Wecyclers’ rewards scheme gives value to the collection of recyclable materials. Service subscribers can exchange their points for food and household items
All pictures courtesy of Nyancho Nwanri / Arete
Wecyclers points rewards system
5
Water sachets
Five points* per kilogram
10 20 1
PET bottles
10 points* per kilogram
Aluminium cans
20 points* per kilogram
Every other item
One point per kilogram.
*A point is equivalent to one naira.
Wecyclers, which works in
rubbish would form, blocking roads
partnership with the Lagos Waste
and contributing to the spread of
Management Authority, certainly
diseases such as malaria, cholera and
meets such criteria. Although it
dysentery. Sometimes the mounds
hopes ultimately to make a finan-
of rubbish would catch fire and cover
cial profit – the company makes its
the surrounding area in acrid smoke.
money by selling the materials on to manufacturers to produce tissue
Points for recycling
paper, bedding materials, plastic
Life here is focused on surviving
furniture and bags – it has been set
each day, so the future environmen-
up to power social change.
tal cost of the piling trash carries
The problem it has taken on – the
little weight. Wecyclers’ rewards
urban waste crisis in Lagos – is a
scheme, however, gives meaningful
big one. When the company began,
value to the collection of recyclable
only 40 per cent of the city’s waste
materials. Service subscribers are
was collected by the municipal
awarded points per kilogram of recy-
government and only 13 per cent
cled waste handed in, which they
of that was recycled. The problem
can track on their mobile phones and
was especially acute in the city’s
exchange for essential goods such
in its seven years, with a focus on
informal settlements, which were
as food and household items three
women, who account for more
not served by regular rubbish
times a year, in April, August and
than half of the workforce. As well
collections. Mountains of discarded
December.
as the truck drivers, the company
TEAM Over half the workforce at Wecyclers are women
The benefits extend to creating much-needed jobs in a city where the population rises by 85 people every hour. Wecyclers has created 200 jobs
FLYafrica 43
employs teams at its seven collec-
its operations beyond the slums to
tion and packaging hubs in the city
more affluent areas.
to sort through the water sachets,
Wale Adebiyi says: “Giving back
aluminium cans, kegs and cartons
to the community is in the DNA of
as well as plastic baskets, bowls,
Wecyclers. We want to expand our
bottles and lids that come in. This
business to other neighbourhoods.
is good news for the local recycling
In the mid-term, we want to be big
industry in Lagos, which previously
enough to build our own recycling
was operating far below its capacity
plant. Growing more for Wecyclers
but now has a reliable supply of raw
means being able to give back even
materials.
more to the community.”
Jobs creation
of the King Baudouin African
According to its calculations,
Development Prize should go a
Wecyclers has the potential to
long way to realising this vision.
create 500,000 jobs if you factor
The prize also provides access to
in the building of trucks, vans and
a wide network of stakeholders in
the attached recycling bins for its
Europe and the United States who
growing fleet of vehicles. This all
will support Wecyclers as it grows.
requires local welders, carpenters,
The company’s growing influence
painters and tailors.
has recently attracted Unilever and
The company has grand plans to
44
REWARDS SCHEME Logging subscribers’ points
The huge financial boost
the Nigerian Bottling Company
increase its presence and influ-
to become its partners in launch-
ence in Lagos. Currently, there are
ing ‘kiosks’ to drop off recycling in
seven collection hubs across the
places where there are no collec-
city – households can contact their
tion routes.
nearest one to arrange a recyclable
PURPLE REIGN Wecyclers is growing its operations in Lagos
This tiny Nigerian start-up, which
waste pick-up – and around 200 new
began with bicycles and a bit of
members are registered each month;
mobile tech, may have found a work-
but the company’s target is to reach
able solution to the massive waste
500,000 homes by 2023 and extend
problem in Lagos.
Royal award Wecyclers will be presented with the King Baudouin African Development Prize in the presence of King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium at the Royal Palace in Brussels on 12 June.
AWAroutes
Freetown Sierra Leone
Nigeria N
Tamale C Côte ôte Ghana an n d’lvoire Monrovia Kumasi Liberia
Abidjan
Abuja Lagos
Takoradi
Explore West Africa with Africa World Airlines GHANA
NIGERIA
LIBERIA
Accra
Lagos
Monrovia
Kotoka International Airport
Murtala Muhammed International Airport
Roberts 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
Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport
Located in Ashanti Region and one of Ghana’s biggest metropolitan areas with a population of 2.07 million.
Capital of Nigeria and one of the fastest-growing cities in the world. Administrative and political centre of Nigeria.
Tamale
CÔTE D’IVOIRE
Capital of Ghana’s Northern Region and hub for administrative and commercial activities.
Takoradi Takoradi Airport Port town combined with Sekondi to form Sekondi-Takoradi, capital of the Western Region.
Capital and most populous city of Liberia with more than 1 million inhabitants.
SIERRA LEONE
Freetown
Abuja
Kumasi International Airport
Tamale Airport
Nigeria’s largest city and the most populous in Africa. Major financial centre and home to one of Africa’s biggest ports.
Lungi International Airport Capital of Sierra Leone and the country’s economic, financial, cultural and political centre.
Abidjan Aéroport Félix Houphouët Boigny The economic capital of Cote D’Ivoire is the second largest city in West Africa after Lagos. Its skyscrapers tower between lagoons and waterways, overlooking the Atlantic.
Book online
flyAfricaWorld.com FLYafrica 45
TRAVELinformation Before your flight
1.
2.
3 .
4.
5.
Allow enough time to arrive at the airport at least two hours before the flight departure time and no later than 40 minutes before departure.
Unaccompanied minors Children aged five to 12 must travel as an unaccompanied minor (UM) on AWA. Only children mature enough to
If you are a special needs passenger, arrive at the airport in ample time to allow the airport staff to process documents.
travel with limited supervision
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.
receiving a UM at final
are allowed to travel as a UM. Details of parent/guardian destination must be provided by a parent/guardian during reservation. Proof of age such as a valid passport, birth certificate or National Health Insurance card must be presented at check-in.
Check that your bags are within the correct weight and size limits for your product class (see table below).
AWA ground staff will assist the UM with check-in, transfers and boarding.
Check your seat assignment, which will be given to you at the airport.
Once on board, a flight attendant with observe and/
During your flight
6.
7.
8.
periodically.
Enjoy complimentary hot beverages, served on some routes, as well as fresh fruit juice and snacks including croissants, biscuits and fish/meat pies.
UMs are only allowed to travel on non-stop or same-
The parent/guardian receiv-
Pay close attention to the safety procedures outlined by the cabin crew and take note of your nearest exit.
plane services.
ing the UM should arrive at the gate 30 minutes prior to
AWA does not accept
scheduled arrival and present
responsibility for a UM’s
valid photo ID to an AWA
actions. The parent/guardian
representative. AWA will not
agrees to hold AWA blame-
release a UM to anyone other
less for any injuries to UM
than the designated parent/
caused by or out of UM’s own
guardian.
negligence.
Sit back, relax and enjoy FLYafrica magazine! AWA reserves the right to
Baggage allowances
46
or communicate with the UM
Checked baggage
Hand luggage
Excess baggage
Should the UM’s flight be
transport UMs on flights that
disrupted or should the guard-
may have been diverted or
ian or parent fail to meet the
cancelled due to weather or
UM on arrival, AWA is author-
operational disruptions.
ized to take necessary and
Domestic Regional 23 kg
30 kg
One piece up to 5 kg and 1 handbag/laptop bag GHS 5/kg
US$ 3/kg
book stating the duration of
to AWA representatives of the
pregnancy at the date of travel.
person’s condition upon ticket purchase.
A new mother is permitted to fly 48 hours after a normal
Pre-boarding to find a suit-
delivery, provided that she has
able seat. Passengers with
a certificate from her obstetri-
disabilities are not permitted to
cian stating she is fit to fly.
sit in the emergency exit rows.
Babies under 14 days old are not permitted to fly.
Receipt of checked-in wheelchair or other assistance device upon disembarking or
Passengers with reduced mobility
at baggage claim. AWA is not insured, permitted
AWA provides assistance to
or equipped for staff to carry
passengers with special needs
any passenger who is unable to
during the reservation process,
assist himself or herself onboard
check-in, during the flight
an AWA aircraft, even if he or
and at final destination. AWA
she is able to walk but needs a
will ensure provision of the
trained and accredited bearer.
following: AWA is not equipped to Transport of passengers
reasonable action under the
agrees to reimburse AWA for
Pregnant women Expectant mothers are permitted to fly until the 28th medical certificate. From the 28th to the
seated on the lap of an adult
34th week of pregnancy, an
over 15 years of age. However,
expectant mother is required
a passenger may choose to
to provide a medical certifi-
purchase a seat for the infant
cate from her obstetrician
as long as there is a proper
stating that the pregnancy is
child restraint device.
progressing without complications and stating the expected
Only one child is permitted
delivery date.
to sit on an adult’s lap. An additional seat must be purchased
or contained gas either in the
safety-related regulation that
passenger cabin or as cargo/
requires us not to do so.
baggage. AWA is not equipped to
chairs or other assistance
transport passengers who
devices for personal use at
require stretchers, incubators,
no charge, in addition to
respirators or other devices
enplaning and deplaning.
that may rely on aircraft power
Attention should be brought
supply.
week of pregnancy without a
AWA requires all children under two years old to be
other hazardous materials and/
unless there is a specific
Transport of wheel-
any expenses incurred.
Infants and toddlers
with disabilities of any kind
and more comfortable flight.
circumstances. In the case of the latter, the parent/guardian
transport medical oxygen or
Expectant mothers more
if one adult is travelling with
than 34 weeks pregnant are
two infants.
not permitted to fly with AWA.
AWA recommends that
For pregnancies less than
a child over 20 kg in weight
28 weeks, passengers should
should use a seat for a safer
possess an ante-natal card/
Fleet information Embraer ERJ-145LR 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:
2,870 km Mach 0.78
Number of aircraft: 8 FLYafrica 47
AWAcontacts
Get in touch Local Offices Accra – Head Office SSNIT Emporium Ground Floor, Airport City Liberation Road PMB CT67 Cantonment Accra, Ghana SOCIAL MEDIA
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Regional Offices Lagos
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