FLYafrica Magazine, Issue 9

YOUR COMPLIMENTARY COPY

Touching Africa, Touching The World!

FLYafrica ISSUE 9

DEC 2020 -FEB 2021

PAGE 11

GHANA WINE PAGE 14

MILLINER VELMA OWUSU-BEMPAH

Chairs of choice

ILÉ ILÀ BRAND BLENDS ART AND FUNCTION

COMPETITION

WIN

NIGHT-FOR-TWO AT LA VILLA BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Inset image: YiFeiBot | Wikimedia Commons | CC-BY-SA-1.0

Contents PAGE 8

GHANA MOURNS

Flt Lt Jerry John Rawlings

Regulars

Features

2 Foreword

5 News extra

6 INSIDER information

8 Flt Lt Jerry John Rawlings

Africa World Airlines Head Office - UNA Homes Building 2nd/3rd floor Airport Bypass Road Airport City Road PMB CT67 Accra, Ghana Tel: +233 24 243 8888 Toll Free: 0800 200 200 Email: awaoffice@flyafricaworld.com www.flyAfricaWorld.com FLYafrica Magazine is published for Africa World Airlines by: Land & Marine Publications Ltd 1 Kings Court, Newcomen Way Severalls Business Park Colchester, Essex CO4 9RA United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)1206 752902 www.landmarine.com ADVERTISING: Email: flyafrica@landmarine.org Paul Hutchings Cell: +44 (0)7701 062533 (WhatsApp)

A message from our CEO

17 Wisdom World

Life coach De Lady Rev talks relationships

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. ©2020 Land & Marine Publications Ltd

Accra

Best earbuds for exercise

29 Inflightmindfulness with Bliss Yoga Accra

FLYafrica competition

The maquis of Abidjan

36 DRIVEafrica VW Tiguan

How the talented milliner built her fashion brand and is sharing her skills

Nigerian brand’s chairs are handmade and high style

26 Haillie Sumney

32 EATafrica

Homegrown wine is not from the vine, but it sure tastes fine

20 Ilé Ilà

31 WINafrica

FLYafrica pays tribute to a founding father of democracy in Ghana

14 Velma Owusu-Bempah

24 TECHcorner

AWA ensures airport runways free of debris

11 Wine made in Ghana

18 STARdestination

Aaron Daunor, Tel: +233 24 346 7506 EDITORIAL: Mark Edwards, Editor markedwards@landmarine.com

The actress, TV show host and fashion influencer talks to FLYafrica

34 The Accra hit-list

We take a look at the capital’s host of new hospitality options

40 INVESTMENT market review

AWA Information

42 STAYafrica

3 AWAnews

The Farmington Hotel, Liberia

45 AWAroutes

Subscribe to FLYafrica

Email: subscribe@landmarine.org

Book online

46 TRAVELinformation 48 AWAcontacts

flyAfricaWorld.com FLYafrica

1

Foreword

Welcome

Connect with AWA Facebook

www.facebook.com/ flyafricaworld

BACK TO OUR BEST ON OUR BIRTHDAY

Twitter

@flyafricaworld

Instagram

@flyafricaworld

Dear passengers, It gives me great pleasure to welcome you onboard your flight today and to thank you for flying Africa World Airlines.

In September, AWA turned eight years old and on behalf of our management and staff, I would like to say a gigantic ‘thank you’ for your continued support and loyalty. It has been an honour to serve you throughout these years. We are so grateful to you for helping make us the number one domestic airline in Ghana since 2015. It has an achievement that has led to us being retained in the Chartered Institute of Marketing Ghana’s Hall of Fame. Thank you so much and congratulations to our 400 plus team members people across the country, whose efforts to deliver safe and reliable air transport services have been recognized yet again.

Your support has been especially crucial in recent months as the pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to the airline industry. We ensured that when we returned from the enforced break in April it was operating under industry leading safety and hygiene protocols, allowing you to

Book online 2

#FlySafeFlyConfident whenever you choose us for your travel needs.

Since that return we have kept increasing operations and latest figures show we scheduled over 1050 flights in November with more than 44,700 booked passengers. Our present schedule offering for December on our domestic routes shows we are doing better than before the pandemic while regional routes are still in recovery.

The continuous increase we see gives us hope of what the future holds.

Our full eight-strong fleet of Embraer145 jets are back in service across our network of destinations and we look forward to sharing skies with you in brighter times ahead and with many more birthdays to celebrate together.

Enjoy your flight and I hope to see you again soon.

flyAfricaWorld.com

Michael C. Luo Chief Executive Officer Africa World Airlines

Cover Image courtesy of Emmanual Oyeleke Phot ography

AWAnews

AWA made official partner of Takoradi’s first-ever marathon AWA is partnering with the event organisers, Medivents Consuls and Total Marketing & Tours Ltd, and the airline’s Chief Operations Officer, Capt. Kwasi Oteng, is delighted to be involved in a new addition to Ghana’s social and sporting calendar.

He said: “We are grateful for partnering the Sekondi-Marathon and it is not only important to connect communities Now more than ever it’s important for us to stay active and keep up our fitness

through sports.

levels and Africa World Airlines (AWA) has

“We want to use this opportunity to

signalled its support for keeping Ghanaians

promote sports in the country and we

healthy by becoming a partner of the first-

at AWA are ready to provide the best of

ever Sekondi-Takoradi Marathon.

comforts for all travelling to the region.”

The 21-kilometre event is scheduled to take

Henri Penni, General Manager of Medivents

place on December 26 as part of the twin

Consults, expressed his appreciation of AWA

city’s street carnival, the Ankos Festival,

for the support. “We look forward to having

also known as the Takoradi Bronya. AWA became the first official sponsor of the event – which is expected to attract more than 2,500 athletes from across the country

commercially but also socially especially

AWA in the Hall of Fame Africa World Airlines (AWA) is honoured to have been retained in the Chartered Institute of Marketing Ghana (CIMG) Hall of Fame after winning the Best Domestic Airline in Ghana award every year since 2015. Thank you so much to our loyal customers for continuing to make us your number one choice in air travel.

a fruitful partnership with AWA,” he said.

The marathon is organised on behalf of the Western Region Coordinating Council and since AWA came onboard, it has also

to the Western Region – as part of the

attracted the sponsorship Halfan Ghana Ltd,

airline’s mission to promote sports tourism

Lakeside Estate, Cowbell, Best Western Plus

across its network of domestic destinations.

Atlantic Hotel and the Ghana Oil Company.

Book online

flyAfricaWorld.com FLYafrica

3

AWAnews More flights to our domestic routes

Our reliability ratings for Oct - Nov 2020 Africa World Airlines is proud to release our operational performance statistics for October and November 2020, in line with our commitment to transparency.

November saw Africa World Airlines (AWA) add even more flight choices on its domestic routes.

Now passengers can choose from up to 11 daily flights each way between Accra and Kumasi, up to six daily flights between Accra and Tamale and up to three daily flights between Accra and Takoradi.

Extra Lagos flights help us connect across West Africa Following the raising of flight quotas announced by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, Africa World Airlines (AWA) has increased flights between Accra and Lagos.

That means AWA now offers 14 flights each week between West Africa’s two largest economic centres, with a choice of both morning and evening

Number of flights scheduled

Schedule execution rate

Oct 937 Nov 1059

Oct 98.61% Nov 99.5%

To book your flights or for more information on prices and schedule, visit us at flyAfricaWorld.com, download our mobile app or call us on 0800 200 200 from within Ghana.

Total flights delayed beyond two hours

Flights delayed beyond two hours due to weather

Oct 3 Nov 6

Oct 3 Nov 0

departures daily. We also offer four-times weekly services to Abuja, Nigeria and Freetown/Monrovia.

Numbers of passengers booked

Passengers denied boarding due to oversales

With affordable fares and frequent schedules, domestic travel within Ghana has never been so convenient or accessible.

The increased flights help our passengers connect across West Africa with our convenient schedules offering hassle-free connections between Lagos and Freetown, Monrovia or Abidjan via our hub at Accra’s state-of-the-art Terminal 3.

Oct 36,186 Nov 44,752

Oct 3 Nov 3

Number of bags checked in

Bags delivered on time

Visit flyAfricaWorld.com, download our mobile app for Android/iOS, or call 0800 200 200 to make your booking.

Oct 32,693 Nov 40,933

Oct 99.03% Nov 98.6%

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.

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Telephone bookings can be made by calling +233 24 243 8888 or our

Toll free number:

0800 200 200

AWA organises airside safety awareness walk In November Africa World Airlines embarked on a series of public awareness safety events to draw attention to the risks posed to aircraft by the presence of foreign object debris (FOD) on the surface of the apron, taxiways and runways of an airport.

onto windscreens of following aircraft causing significant damage.

The financial impact to operators for replacement of damaged equipment and disruption to operations runs into millions of dollars annually, so efforts

The event, called #FODWALK, was organized in conjunction with officials from the Ghana Airports Authority, and took place at the Kotoka International Airport in Accra. Participants in the cleanup exercise participants spread out and walked the distance of two of the aircraft parking stands and their adjacent taxiway looking for and picking up stones, screws, bolts and other debris. Such objects can cause major damage to aircraft engines if sucked into the aircraft’s turbojets or can blow out tyres at high speed.

Stones from preceding aircraft have on occasion been unintentionally blown

are being made to create awareness and to take the necessary actions to reduce the risk to aircraft operations.

Africa World Airlines continues in its efforts to maintain the highest possible safety standards in aviation. Please join us!

SAFETY A range of potentially dangerous debris was found and cleared from the airside

Book online

flyAfricaWorld.com FLYafrica

5

INSIDER information West African gifts… thoughtful presents for family and friends

Giving a gift – just because – is a great way to show you care. Nathan Tollo has carefully selected some awesome presents that let your family and friends know that they are appreciated.

AMBIANCE SCENTS

BY TALATA

SHOWER SPEAKERS Where to buy: Jumia Here’s a gift for the relative or friend who loves to channel their inner Mariah Carey while showering. These waterproof speakers will let you sing along – using the shower head as a microphone is optional – and you can also answer all phone calls with it.

Where to buy: hello@ambiancescents.com Hand sanitising gets the sensory luxury treatment from luxury events company Talata and its new range also includes oils and fragrance diffusers for your car.

NÖTTI SHITO Where to buy: Call 055 8069640 Premium pepper sauce made of spicy traditional ingredients including ginger, onion, oil and other preservatives. Nötti Shito can be eaten with rice, bread, kenkey, you name it.

This lifesaver makes an ideal gift.

MONOPOLY ACCRA/ LAGOS EDITION CVL BEAUTY TOOLS AND ACCESSORIES Where to buy: cvlbeauty.com Do you know who needs a beauty kit as a gift? All the women in your life. Ghanaian beauty company, Contours By Valerie Lawson, has the perfect makeup gift set, featuring brush sets, cosmetic travel bags, tweezers, pocket mirrors and other goodies.

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Where to Buy: sales@bestmangames.com First invented in 1903, the popularity of classic board game Monopoly shows no sign of waning. The Accra and Lagos editions are more than a game, they are gifts that will help your young ones harness their creativity and help the family bond. It’s game time, baby!

ORCHIDEA Where to buy: Drop in to the store at Nortei Ababio St or call 0246923333/ 0244998899 Everyone loves flowers as gifts and you’ll find bouquets of lilies, orchids, carnations and many more at Orchidea Flowers in Accra.

LOZA MALEOMBHO Where to buy: shop-lozamaleombho.com What do superstars Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland and Iman have in common?

They have all rocked outfits by American-Ivorian designer, Loza Maleombho. To enlist your Beyoncéobsessed cousin or sister into this stylish tribe, buy one of the Kpele belts which are the hottest thing since fire was invented.

FEARLESS FACE MASKS BY VELMA Where to buy: Velma’s Atelier, G Y Odoi Street, Osu, Accra or velmasaccessories.com Face masks are part of our new normal and a key part of curbing the spread of coronavirus. Choose from the Face Masks by Velma range, which are certified by Ghana’s FDA. They are fearless face mask for males, females and those who love to be playful.

BÔHTEN Where to buy: bohten.like2buy.curalate.com Bôhten gives you Africa, style and attitude in your prescription eyewear. Who wouldn’t want this as a gift?

RAYA JEWELLERY Where to buy: rayajewellery.com Raya Jewellery’s eye candy bracelets, earrings and rings decorated with semi-precious stones are an extraordinary accessory for the women of style.

CUSTOMISED SOCKS Where to buy: chalesocks.com Bright colours, Adinkra patterning, super soft cotton – the latest range by Chale Socks is a trendy, joyous treat for your feet.

FLYafrica

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‘A great tree has fallen’ Ghana mourns the loss of Jerry Rawlings

Fondly known by his people as ‘Papa J’ and a true founding father of modern Ghana, former President Flight Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings, the country’s longest serving leader, sadly passed away on November 12. FLYafrica pays tribute.

instability of the years of autocratic military rule that dominated the 1970s. While the road to achieving this goal was not always smooth, Rawlings clung to his vision for a greater Ghana and was ultimately

“A

able to consolidate long-term politigreat tree has fallen, and

indebted to Rawlings, who oversaw

cal change, ushering in as President

Ghana is poorer for this

the transition to multi-party elections

in 1992 the country’s fourth republic,

loss.” These were the words

in 1992, laying the groundwork for

which has continued to this day to

of Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-

what is now one of Africa’s most

provide democratic government with

Addo on hearing of the death of

stable democracies.

sovereignty residing in the Ghanaian

former president Flight Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings.

ence in Ghana during his two terms

people.

as President and beyond with his

Early years

died on November 12 in hospital in

achievements including introducing

Jerry John Rawlings – his ‘JJ’ initials

Accra after a short illness, prompted

free market reforms and turning the

were later rebranded to ‘Junior Jesus’

Akufo-Addo to announce seven days

country into a major player in United

by his followers – was born in Accra

of national mourning in the country

Nations peacekeeping missions

on June 22, 1947. His father, James

while both of Ghana’s political

around the world. The charismatic

Ramsey John, was an expat farmer

parties suspended their campaigns

leader created a legacy of social

from Scotland, in the UK, while his

for the December elections.

justice and empowerment of Ghana’s

mother, Victoria Agbotui – who died

people that will never be forgotten.

less than two months before her son

The news that Rawlings had

That Ghana has two dominant political parties – Akufo-Addo

8

Rawlings wielded a strong influ-

Despite his Ghana Air Force

– was from Keta.

currently heads the New Patriotic

background and the authoritar-

Party in government while the

ian methods he orchestrated to

School where he proved an outspo-

Rawlings went to Achimota

National Democratic Congress

gain and retain power, Rawlings

ken, rebellious pupil who excelled

(NDC), founded by Rawlings, holds

always harboured ambitions for his

at sports, especially polo. In 1968

it to account in opposition – is

country to escape the corruption and

he enrolled in the military academy

Inset image: YiFeiBot | Wikimedia Commons | CC-BY-SA-1.0

in Teshie, where he continued to

an expert in economics and I am not

impress, winning a place at flight

an expert in law, but I am an expert

training school and going on to join

in working on an empty stomach

the elite Fourth Squadron jet fighters

while wondering when and where

based in Accra.

the next meal will come from. I know

Always politically minded, Flight

AFRICA UNION ENVOY Visiting the military hospital in Somalia YiFeiBot | Wikimedia Commons | CC-BYSA-1.0

another coup and return the country to military rule after the PNP had plunged Ghana into even greater hardship.

Stimulating economic growth

what it feels like going to bed with

became the mission of the newly

Lieutenant Rawlings was part of

a headache, for want of food in the

formed Provisional National Defence

the radical underground organisa-

stomach.”

Council (PNDC) with Rawlings as its

tion in the military called the Free

Rawlings was sentenced to death,

Chairman and Head of State. It was

Africa Movement and not afraid to

but his supporters in the army

not an easy road. The party had to

voice his dissatisfaction at the food

contrived his escape and rallied to

contend with five attempted coups,

shortages and high inflation in his

overthrow Ghana’s then military

country when a ban on political

leader, General Fred Akuffo.

parties was lifted in 1979. His ‘man of the people’ status was forged at this

Building a nation

time with TV coverage showing him

It soon became apparent that

at the head of teams of volunteers

Rawlings had democratic ideals

building railway tracks to carry

beyond the average military

cocoa beans from farms to the

leader. Though his Armed Forces

coast to earn much-needed export

Revolutionary Council (AFRC) were

revenue and huge crowds turned up

merciless in holding former leaders

to hear the powerful public speaker

to account – something which

lambast the ruling military regime.

Rawlings later declared regret over

Buoyed by the support, Rawlings

handed power over to elected

unsuccessful and he was arrested.

civilian government the People’s

Brought to trial, he remained

National Party (PNP).

questioning in court with: “I am not

but Rawlings captured the hearts and minds of the majority of grass roots Ghanaians, who fondly called him Papa J and responded to his

– once order was restored Rawlings

launched a coup d’état, but it proved

unbowed, famously responding to

FREQUENT FLYER Rawlings with AWA flight crew

However, just two years later, Rawlings felt compelled to stage FLYafrica

9

nation-building rhetoric backed up by human-centred development

losing out to John Kufuor of the NPP. Rawlings’ decision set a powerful

policies – with almost 40 percent of

example in Africa. Another Ghanaian

total public expenditure allocated to

legend, Kofi Annan, then United

the education and health sectors.

Nations Secretary, said after the

After a two-year dalliance with

election results were announced:

Marxist principles of govern-

“With these elections, Ghana has

ance, Rawlings worked with the

demonstrated that democracy and

International Monetary Fund and

its institutions continue to take root

World Bank to establish a free

in Africa.”

market economy in Ghana through the Economic Recovery Programme,

Post-presidency roles

which began a pattern of sustained

Annan’s admiration led to him giving

growth and helped restore interna-

Rawlings a succession of interna-

tional confidence in the country.

tional roles after he stepped down

The ensuing years of improving

as President, including leading a

stability moved Rawlings to put in

campaign against malaria in Africa

place a new democratic constitution

and being African Union envoy to

and in 1992 a multi-party presiden-

Somalia. Annan also named him as

tial election was held. Rawlings’

the inaugural Eminent Person of the

newly formed National Democratic

International Year of Volunteers for

Congress (NDC) party were clear

his work promoting volunteerism.

winners in a vote judged fair by

Rawlings headed the Thomas

outside observers and four years

Sankara Foundation, which

later Rawlings won a second term in

preserved the memory of his friend,

another landslide.

the Burkina Faso revolutionary

Achievements

leader assassinated in 1987. He speaker who lectured at universi-

President, his achievements

ties across the world and up until his

were legion. Standouts include

death he continued to campaign for

improved access to healthcare

his beloved NDC. He is survived by his wife, Nana

national electricity grids across the

Konadu Agyeman, who is the NDC

country; establishing the National

candidate for the 2020 elections in

Development Planning Commission

Ghana, three daughters, Zanetor, Yaa

(now known as Ghana Vision 2020)

Asantewaa and Amina, and a son,

to make Ghana a middle-income

Kimathi.

country by 2020; boosting food

Nana Akufo-Addo Ghana President

“A great tree has fallen, and Ghana is poorer for this loss.”

Moussa Faki Mahamat African Union Commission Chairman “Africa has lost a stalwart of Pan-Africanism and a charismatic continental statesman.”

George Weah Liberian President “Ghana, Liberia and Africa will miss a great leader. Liberia remembers his immense contribution to the attainment and sustainment of peace during our dark days of our own history.”

was also a much in-demand public

During his eight years as elected

for rural communities; rolling out

African leaders pay their tributes

Muhammadu Buhari Nigerian President “The entire African continent will sorely miss the sterling qualities of the great leader.

“The passion, discipline and moral strength that the former Ghanaian leader employed to reposition his country over many years continue to reverberate across the continent and beyond.”

production by 148 per cent between 1995 and 1997; raising prices for valuable exports such as cocoa and gold; attracting direct foreign investment and maintaining peace and stability with Ghana’s West African neighbours at its borders.

Despite the many accomplishments during his rule, it was the presidency that left, perhaps, his most resounding legacy. When the two terms of his office were over – the maximum allowed within the new constitution – he agreed to step down.

The subsequent election marked the first transfer of power via the ballot box in Ghana’s history with Rawlings’ deputy, John Atta Mills, 10

YiFeiBot | Wikimedia Commons | CC-BY-SA-1.0

way in which he relinquished his

Homegrown

WINE FROM BEYOND THE VINE Forget your grape expectations, it’s time to welcome Ghanaian wines made from cashews, cocoa and coffee. Accra’s Sai Wine Café has branded its own quartet of homegrown wines that are competing for its customers’ attention with its range of premium imports from Europe’s and South Africa’s wine-growing heartlands

S

ai Wine and

a heavy, aggressive finish

Champagne Cafe has

with earthy notes. Finally,

done much to spread

Lom Nava, which in Ewe

the love and appreciation

means ‘If you love me,

of the grape in all its varie-

come’, is a rich coffee wine.

ties among Accra residents

“At Sai Wine Café we

with its regular wine-tasting

take pride in being a wholly

sessions and its range of

owned Ghanaian company

fine imported wines from

and showing patronage

old and new world wine

for all things Ghanaian.

producing companies.

As much as we can we

But the wine café – the

take advantage of local

first of its kind in Ghana

produce. So, when we

– has even been turning

came across the producer

its customers on to wine

of Made in Ghana wine

beyond the vine. Its chief executive officer Nadia

it was a no brainer for us. We partnered with

Takyiwaa-Mensah has partnered with the Volta

them and created our own brand, called ‘Volta’.

Winery – which works from its headquarters in

Our customers are super proud and super

Ho, in the Volta Region, not with grapes, but the

excited about the wines. They want to be part

far more domestically plentiful cashews, cocoa

of what is Made in Ghana. We presently sell all

and coffee beans – to release its own Made in

four varietals and look forward to working with

Ghana range of wines.

the producer in expanding on the range over

Showing support

the coming years.”

Showing support for her fellow Ghanaian

There are four wines currently in the range and

entrepreneurs has been a trait of Takyiwaa-

Takyiwaa-Mensah talks me through the “unique

Mensah since she returned to her homeland

taste” of each. “Dusk til’ Dawn is a cocoa white

from the UK to raise her son and set up what is

wine and tastes like a beautiful, medium bodied

now a pan-African brand management agency,

sauvignon blanc. Hibiscus Blush is cocoa white

Sixth Sense Manifesto. The media communica-

made red with hibiscus flowers therefore you

tions graduate had built a successful interna-

get these subtle exotic floral notes along with

tional marketing career, but returning to Ghana

a tangy citrus finish. Audacity is our cashew

meant starting again. The lessons learnt on that

white and, as the name suggests, is a very bold

journey were chronicled in her 2019 published

wine. It’s initially easy on the palate but it has

book, ‘How to Get Ahead in Ghana’, a 10-step

MADE IN GHANA Wine made with local produce

FLYafrica

11

guide for Ghanaians looking to go, as the book puts it, “from average to awesome”. A follow-up to the book that targets people from the diaspora who are returning to Ghana to set up a business is soon to be released and Takyiwaa-Mensah also supports domestic enterprise as vice chair at the National Hospitality Association of Ghana – a crucial role as the industry faces the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic.

Sai Wine Café is part of that

the African palate but cut through

support network. It attracts Accra’s

the pepper and oily base. The menu

movers and shakers, who get to

at Sai Wine Café makes use of locally

share ideas, hatch plans and network

sourced produce and herbs grown

at regular events and experiences

in the café’s garden in dishes that

that include wine, tea, chocolate

range from vegan to fish and meat

and even ice-cream tasting, art

grilled on an outdoor barbecue.

exhibitions, movie nights and wine

“The beauty of Volta is that it can

and food pairing. Set up in 2015, the

pair well with continental as well as

café’s success in turning so many

local dishes,” she says. “But we think

Accra residents into oenophiles

that is perfect for the African palate

necessitated a recent relocation to

as it blends well with our carbs

new, larger premises in Ako-Adjei, in

and proteins without it aggravat-

Osu. A three-month renovation has

ing the palate or taste of your food.

transformed the former nursery into

Sometimes wines from abroad are

a stylish spot to work, rest and play away from Accra’s bustle. The cool décor includes a wealth of framed images of inspirational figures from Africa and the diaspora.

Wines pair perfectly with African cuisine

You have to have a lot of patience. Our cocoa and cashew wines are, for example, the result of careful fermentation of the pulps over one year high in tannins and sulphites

Members share a drive to celebrate

which makes it difficult to pair

their country and have taken to

with a spicy dish.”

the Ghanaian wines available at

A great deal of painstak-

Sai Wine Café not just as a novelty,

ing craft and labour goes

but, as Takyiwaa-Mensah attests,

into making such premium

because they are comparable in

wines. Volta Winery’s founder,

quality to wines from estab-

Harrison Adjimah, says:

lished vineyards the world

“You have to have a lot of

over. She believes the new

patience. Our cocoa and

range can hold its own

cashew wines are, for

against the pick of wines

example, the result of

brought in from Europe,

careful fermentation of

South Africa and South

the pulps over one year.”

America that Sai Wine Café

Adjimah began

also offers its customers. “I

making wine as a hobby

would definitely say it is on

while studying in the UK.

a par with complex variation

Like many cash-strapped

of wines which are available

students, the idea of

globally,” she says.

Takyiwaa-Mensah has also found that the homegrown wines complement

12

BOTTLE BRAND The Volta range

the pulp of the fruit, both of which

persevere. In the meantime, we have

are usually discarded by farmers”.

alternative wine options.”

While Takyiwaa-Mensah is looking to build on the relationship between

The Volta wines are available at Sai

Sai Wine Café and Volta Winery with

Wine Café or for retail or wholesale

more wine varieties to come, she is

purchases by calling 0206 905 257.

also looking even further into the future and entertaining the idea that Ghana could become known for its wine made from grapes in the future.

For more information on membership, download the package from the website saighana.com or email

“Parts of Ghana such as the Volata

membership@saighana.com

and Eastern Region do have the right

To see a full list of upcoming member

climate. It is a very bold venture and we know a couple of people who are

he began home-brewing wine from

looking at embarking on that journey

To browse and buy the Volta Winery

strawberries, gooseberries and

but we are yet to see anything mate-

range, which includes 3-litre cashew

blackcurrants.

rialise. Just like South Africa when

wine dispensers as well as cocoa

we do get there, I am sure we shall

fruit juice and raw chocolate nuts,

receive global resistance but we shall

call 0248772148

became an entrepreneurship lecturer

NEW PREMISES Sai Wine Cafe in Osu

events at the café, visit the website.

cheap alcohol appealed to him and

On return to Ghana, where he

STYLE Sai Wine Cafe’s interiors

at Ho Technical University, he started making wines from homegrown fruits. Impressed with the results, he used the growing venture to inspire his students into seeing the potential for innovation using local produce.

“I realised that if wine can be made from these fruits, then given the known characteristics, good quality wines could be made from

Wine from cocoa Making wine from cocoa is actually nothing new. Montezuma II, King of the Aztecs of Mexico in the 16th century, is said to have drunk 50 jars of cacao wine at a ceremonial feast.

the Ghanaian fruit and cocoa too,” he says. “It motivated me show my students that premium products can be made from local things around us.”

Adding value Making the wine only adds value to the crop of the established smallholder cocoa and cashew farming industries in Ghana as, Adjimah says, “our cocoa wine and juice are made from the cream of the cocoa fruit and our cashew wine is made from

The oldest known record of cacao dates back to 1400 BC to pottery found in Honduras, in Central America, and the actual process of separating the cacao beans from the rest of the fruit of the cacao pod involves cracking the pod open and allowing the fruit around the beans to ferment, resulting in a liquid that is about 5 to 7 per cent alcohol (around the strength of beer) as well as those super tasty cocoa beans.

FLYafrica

13

Velma Owusu-Bempah

A HEAD START IN FASHION 14

Images courtesy of Velma Owusu Bempah and LaceupMedia

The head-turning handmade hats, fascinators, headpieces, crowns and clutches of Ghanaian brand Velma’s Millinery & Accessories provide a unique finishing touch to an outfit when you are dressing to impress.

T

he brand’s founder and

in the ‘family concept store’ on the

creative director, Velma

first floor alongside ladies’ clothing

Owusu-Bempah, has raised

line Ophelia Crossland Designs –

the profile of the country’s fashion

founded by Velma’s sister – men’s

accessory industry, with a global

clothing line Nineteen 57 – the

client list that includes Ghana’s

brainchild of Velma’s brother-in-law,

First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo,

Kofi Okyere Darko – and family-run

TV host Joselyn Dumas and even

children’s clothing line Ohemaa Kids’

the mother of US singing superstar

Club. The second floor is taken over

Beyoncé. Such success combined

by Velma’s Millinery Academy.

with Velma’s millinery masterclass-

cross-fertilisation of ideas. Recent

her the Ghana’s Most Outstanding

family collaborations including the

Woman 2019 award. FLYafrica takes

sisters teaming up with Swarovski

a closer look at the work of this

for a show in Dubai in which Velma

caring creative.

created a headpiece with crystals cut

A family affair Family is a big part of Velma’s story.

GOLDEN TOUCH An example from Velma’s Gold Coast Queen collection

Such proximity allows for the easy

es for the next generation earned

by the luxury jewellery company to accessorise one of Ophelia’s designs.

Perhaps “storey” is a more apt word

Getting started

because the family business has

Surrounded by beautiful fabrics

grown to accommodate the genera-

while working in her mother’s textile

tions over three floors of its flagship

business inspired Velma to get crea-

premises on the corner of Oxford

tive. “I started making little purses

Street amid the commercial bustle of

and crafts for family and close

Accra’s Osu neighbourhood. On the

friends with pieces of the fabric,” she

ground floor Velma’s mother, Sarah

says. “Customers that came by the

Crossland, runs Sarah’s Designs, the

shop loved what I was creating and

textile business where her daughter

started making orders. They also

got her starting job after complet-

began to ask if I could add millinery

ing her degree in marketing at

to what I was doing.”

University of Ghana. Now the latest

Encouraged by the custom-

Velma’s Millinery & Accessories

ers and her mother to follow her

collections are displayed for sale

passion, Velma furthered her studies

FLYafrica

15

at the prestigious London-based arts university Central Saint Martins where she specialised in millinery and bag design. Brimming with ideas she returned to Ghana in 2004 to set

I get inspiration from natural things like plants, flowers, pure leather and butterflies

up Velma’s Millinery & Accessories.

Velma took the pictures while daughter Alethea modelled each of the 14 pieces – her involvement dependent on three days straight of her mother’s much-loved roast

Early work focused on complemen-

of materials,” she says. “But I do like

chicken salad being the family

tary hairpieces for Ophelia Crossland

to work with feathers, banana straw

evening meal. To see the collection,

Designs, but Velma continued to

(sinamay) fish leather, plastic, fabric

visit velmaaccessories.com

hone her craft – training with estab-

dyes, rhinestones and pearls.”

lished milliners such as Ian Bennett and Australian Carol Maher – and

Spring Summer Collection

went on to build a global business.

Nature has had a big influence on

and Chloe Scrivener, from the UK,

Inspirations

16

even continued to the photoshoot.

Velma’s latest collection, which was devised and created during

Velma’s creations are daring, intri-

lockdown as Ghana protected itself

cate works of art that bring the bling

from Covid-19. Stuck at home, Velma

without ever looking gaudy. Each

looked to the spices, vegetables,

piece is unique and guaranteed to

fruits and plants in her kitchen

stand out from the crowd, but there

and garden to be her muse. She

are recurring themes. “I get inspira-

handcrafted each piece at home

tion from natural things like plants,

from what she calls a “home-made

flowers, pure leather and butterflies,”

recipe”, dyeing the fascinators,

Velma says. She also uses a lot of

bandeau, hatinators and percher

natural materials, many of them

hats with natural colours and deco-

sourced in Ghana, but also from

rating them with quills, sinamay,

England, Australia, China and the

straw, plastic, feathers, sequins and

United States. “I use a huge variety

beads. The quarantined creativity

Other lockdown adaptations include the selling of a range of fabric face masks and the millinery STYLE Haute couture headwear

academy has gone online until, as Vera puts it, “things calm down”.

FLYafrica has its own life coach! De Lady Rev is a pastor, radio presenter, author and motivational speaker and each issue will be helping FLYafrica readers excel in all areas of their life.

Everybody needs somebody and not just anybody If you’re looking for the ideal romantic partner, your special somebody must: 1. Be in the same mental state as you. That person should support your vision, love what you do and be in same spirit with you.

Millinery Academy Velma is keen to share her skills with a new generation of budding creatives and build a culture of millinery excellence in Ghana. “I run two main courses,” she says.

“The first is for beginners, but applicants should be confident they have a certain level of natural creativity. Then there is a more advanced class for which students require good millinery background or experience. We also have online master classes on particular millinery techniques such as working with leather or lace. These are especially popular with international students who don’t have to travel to attend.”

The academy courses each take on between six and 10 students at a time. To apply, visit velmasmillineryacademy.com

communities. She is currently a tutor at the Nsawam Medium Security Prison where she offers courses in hat-making for prison inmates as part of the Fair Justice Millinery Initiative.

The milliner has also joined her

2. Be in the same emotional place. This is when you feel both of you are engaged in the relationship. You shouldn’t be the one always doing the apologizing and showing the love.

It should be reciprocated. The love you give must be returned. You must speak the same emotional language.

sister and the Nigerian fashion designer Patience Torlowei in training young street children in sewing and production skills in their respective studios. The project is supported by the African Fashion Foundation and Accra retailer The Lotte and will result in a collaborative clothing collection to be showcased internationally.

Find out more To browse and buy Velma’s latest collections, visit velmasaccessories.com

Improving diversity in fashion world

She is also on Instagram

In sharing her skills, Velma is keen

@velmas_millineryacademy

to reach out to underrepresented

@velmasaccessories

@velma_thephilanthropist

3. Be at the same financial place. You shouldn’t be the only one supporting the both of you financially. It should be part of the language of both of you. You should both be in agreement about what you will use your money to do. It must be shared and not be only one sided.

4. Be sexually attractive to you. You don’t take up somebody who doesn’t appeal to your sexual aroma. You guys must have that sexual attraction to each other. You should attract your partner as he/she attracts you.

Most of all, remember: you need somebody and not just anybody.

Follow De Lady Rev on Facebook at de Lady Rev and Instagram @de_lady_Rev

FLYafrica

17

STAR DESTINATION

Accra

18

K.Kyere / Shutterstock.com

Gerhard Pettersson / Shutterstock.com

Gerhard Pettersson / Shutterstock.com

Accra, Ghana’s beating heart, is a tightly packed city of indefatigable energy. Whether you are in the hip hive of restaurants, clubs and shops that is the capital’s Osu neighbourhood, its historic fishing port of Jamestown or the sound systems and surf of its beaches, life here is ever frenetic and inventive. However, for all its bustle, Accra remains a friendly, safe and welcoming city and that restless energy has generated a rich cultural scene. Here’s a few ideas on where to get started on your Accra adventure.

CREATIVE CAPITAL Accra

TRAVEL: Accra and its

Truba7113 / Shutterstock.com

EAT: At the forefront of East

Ghanaian artists since 2006 with

Legon’s burgeoning dining

is the hub of Africa World

exhibitions, readings, talks, film

scene is cosy, continental

Airlines’ operations so there

screenings, performances and

restaurant The Venue, which

are flights into the city across

events, including its EhaLakasa

serves a range of European

its network of West African

poetry programme. It took

dishes with an African twist.

destinations every day of

things to another level last year,

the week. Passengers can fly

though, with the opening of its

direct into Accra from Tamale,

beautiful new concrete gallery

Kumasi, Wa and Takoradi in

which provides amazing hanging

Ghana; from Abuja and Lagos

space inside to exhibit art works

in Nigeria; from Freetown in

on its pleasing curved walls

Sierra Leone and Monrovia in

while it overhangs an outdoor

Liberia. To book your ticket, visit

performance area for live music

flyafricaworld.com

and drama.

SEE: Jamestown. The oldest

DO: Makola Market. Despite

Santoku brought sushi to Accra in 2014 and this sophisticated restaurant in the luxury development of Villaggio Vista is still the city’s best, but XO in Airport City is also worth seeking out.

Head to Azmera in Airport Residential for classic Ghanaian dishes served up in some style.

district in Accra is dominated by

Accra being home to many

crumbling vestiges of colonial

modern malls in which shoppers

rule such as Ussher Fort and

can browse designer stores in

Jamestown Prison as well as a

air-conditioned comfort, Makola

centuries old fishing port still

Market, which has been around

going strong, yet it has also

since the late 19th century, is

become a symbol of modern

still the centre of trade in the

Ghana with independent

city. The sprawling outdoor

cultural network Accra[dot]

market is so big that it is split

alt holding art exhibitions and

into quarters, where specialised

pop-up events at Brazil House

goods and services can be

and the district is taken over

found. For example Kantamanto

Street Hotel. This futuristic

each August by the Chale

sells second-hand clothes while

giant Jenga game of a hotel

Wote Festival, the largest

elsewhere rows of seamstresses

has 108 state-of-the-art rooms

street art event in West Africa.

will turn your newly purchased

with views over the city and the

Exploring lively Jamestown can

textiles into made-to-measure

ocean and is positioned at the

be quite overwhelming at first.

clothes. Exploring the market is

top of Osu’s Oxford Street with

To escape the crowds and get

fascinating insight into Ghanaian

its strip of cool restaurants, bars

a bird-eye view of the district

commerce and, if you are

and clubs stretching all the way

and its harbour, you can climb

prepared to haggle, you may

to the Atlantic.

to the top of the Jamestown

come away with a real bargain.

Lighthouse or you can seek

Choices range from a steaming plate of aromatic Jollof rice served in plantain leaves to palm nut soup served in earthenware.

If you want some organically grown fruit to snack on through the day, make your way to the open-air Labone Green Market.

SLEEP: Number One Oxford

Chez Delphy. This bed and

National Museum. Ghana’s first

breakfast in Labone just has

and largest museum space dates

a few rooms and they sell out

back to 1957. In its peaceful,

fast. It’s easy to see why: the

cavernous exhibition space,

en-suite rooms are stylish, the

served in its tranquil courtyard.

you’ll find indigenous Ghanaian

breakfast is amazing, staff treat

musical instruments, beads,

you like royalty and it’s very

Nubuke Foundation. Located in

traditional textiles, furniture,

affordable considering you

the East Legon neighbourhood,

pottery and ceremonial masks

are just a kilometre or so from

this visual art and cultural

from across Africa.

bustling Osu.

sanctuary at the Jamestown Café – run by architect Joe Osae-Addo – where fresh food and delicious smoothies are Felix Lipov / Shutterstock.com

institution has been supporting

Kotoka International Airport

FLYafrica

19

ILÉ ILÀ

‘

Our chairs are functional

ART’

Tosin Oshinowo, the founder of lifestyle furniture brand Ilé Ilà, can sum up the inspiration for her range of handcrafted chairs in one word: “colour”. For proof, check out the Lagos company’s latest radiant design, Àdùnní – an armchair and accompanying foot-stool upholstered with a choice of seven shades of the vibrant Yoruba textile Asò-oké. As with all Ilé Ilà products, design and production is proudly Nigerian from start to finish.

T

he cloth is hand-loomed

new directions and why chairs are

beyond what you are referencing.

here and a team of Lagos

supposed to be special.

A lot of the creativity I have today is

carpenters working with

locally sourced teak create the chair’s frame while design inspiration has come from homegrown muses such as singers Adekunle

20

based on that.

Living in Lagos has taught me that creativity comes from confinement

Our furniture is aspirational and I think that’s how it should be

Gold and Chidinma Ekile as well

When you are stuck in a box you

as creative designer Oladotun

have to be learn to be creative

Ojuolape Kayode. The results, which

with the elements of the limita-

Oshinowo describes as “functional

tions surrounding you. I grew up

art”, blend traditional and modern

in a Lagos in the 1980s under a

have three or four in your home. It

Africa as well as comfort and

military regime and it was difficult

is special and the price [US$ 1,975]

functionality. Here the designer and

to get anything brought in from the

reflects that. It’s functional art and

architect (she designed Maryland

outside. We learnt to be creative, to

I like the fact that purchasing them

Mall, known as the ‘Big Black Box’,

learn to make things yourself actually

means something to people. I have

in Lagos) shares her thoughts on

out of imitation to replicate things

met couples that bought this chair

why creativity loves challenge,

you have seen in the outside world.

for their first home together so I

how collaboration has taken her in

In doing that you start to be creative

know they value and appreciate

There is something really strong MUSE Chidinma Ekile

about the Àdùnní line. I don’t think it’s the kind of piece where you

Images of Àdùnní range by Emmanual Oyeleke Photography / image of Tosin Oshinowo by August Udoh

the item. They tell me they saved

have had with our use of Asò-oké

up to buy it and it means some-

fabrics, but design should be for

thing special.

everyone and that’s why the new

I think there are certain things that should remain aspirational.

range we are working on is quicker to manufacture, easier to afford and accessible to all.

However, we are working on a new range of flat-pack furniture, which will be affordable to all Nigerians

I wanted to go in a slightly different direction with this new

FOUNDER Tosin Oshinowo

bring it out mid to late 2021 and I am very excited about it.

I use a different side of my brain for furniture design compared to when I’m designing buildings

collection. That’s the beauty of this

I think space should be designed

chair line – we’ve produced three

so it’s flexible. When you work as

designs so far [Àdùnní, the funky,

a designer or an architect you are

We have had a number of interna-

modern Line Chair and the Victorian

constantly producing for other

tional orders for the Àdùnní chairs,

armchair-influenced Ite, which has a

people and I think it has come

but they have proved expensive to

rocking chair option] and the fourth

more naturally to me to believe I

package and ship out of the country

is the opportunity to push this idea

am creating a canvas that will be

of flat pack.

occupied by other people so there is

It made me start to think about flat pack furniture. I began to create

It’s been on hold for a while

an element of detachment, but with

a line of furniture that is easy to

because of all the other things I have

my furniture I start to think about if I

assemble at home and I hope will

on at the moment, but I hope we will

was designing my space how would

appeal to young families, newlyweds and students. By producing more and quickly we can make this furniture more affordable to the average Nigerian and it will also be easier to export. I don’t want to lose the authenticity or design flair we

I believe wholeheartedly in collaboration. It forces you to challenge your idea of creativity, while also learning and evolving as a designer by working with others FLYafrica

21

I create that. Ilé Ilà is it was born out

exhibition [Angels and Muse, Ikoyi]

of genuine, personal interest. I have a

together, which showed on Netflix

lot of colourful pieces of furniture in

series Amazing Interiors. It pushed

my home with very neutral walls and

my boundaries and understanding

being able to take that colour and

of internal space. I would never have

thing really strong here. We arranged

this idea of my own tastes and see

created it on my own. True creativity

a photo shoot with Adekunle Gold

so many people reference and aspire

comes from bouncing ideas off other

who’s a cultural, conscious artist. We

towards it and want these pieces

people and you become a true crea-

put it on Instagram and the rest is

makes me really happy.

tive and broaden your spectrum by

history. All of a sudden everyone was

working with others.

saying: “Oh my God. The colours are

Collaboration pushes your creative boundaries

came over he saw the chair and said: “Oh My God! This is amazing. How did you come up with this?” He kind of pushed me and said I had some-

so cool.” That’s when I realised I had

The first 10 chairs I had made stayed in my house for three months until I gave all but one away to friends.

something, so really the element I

ing and evolving as a designer by

I had been doing some experiments

Chairs are supposed to be special.

working with others. There is some-

with Asò-oké and had made a chair

Ergonomics is important. It has to

thing very beautiful about having an

for an interiors project that was very

idea and being able to thrash it out

well received and then my carpentry

with someone else. I am currently

team said it made economic sense to

doing a design collaboration with a

produce it in batches so I made 10. I

textile designer. The work we have

didn’t understand marketing when

produced is out of this world and

I started out. For three months they

Find out more

it’s stuff I wouldn’t have produced in

stayed in my house and I ended up

Browse the range at ile-ila.com or

isolation.

giving them away. I did keep one

follow its social media channels.

in my house and when Oladotun

Facebook: HouseofLines

with [award-winning artist] Victor

Ojuolape Kayode, my creative

Instagram: ile.ila

Ehikhamenor. We did an interior

designer for the Adunni range, first

YouTube: ile ila

I believe wholeheartedly in collaboration. It forces you to challenge your idea of creativity, while also learn-

Another collaboration was

22

OPTIONS The latest range is available in seven colours

had been missing was how to market and communicate and once that format was clear we were sailing.

be practical. It needs to be striking.

COLOUR AND CRAFT The Ite chair

If it is Ilé Ilà chair it has to be a statement maker.

TECHcorner Listen up!

The best earbuds for exercise Scientific studies have proven that listening to music while exercising can boost performance, but you don’t need a scientist to tell you those benefits will nosedive should you get tangled up in wires or your massive over-ear headphones fall off. Far better then that fitness fans opt for wireless earbud headphones.

Discreet, stylish and lightweight, they are the ideal fit for providing an uninterrupted soundtrack for your workout. FLYafrica takes a look at some of the best on the market.

Good vibrations…

AfterShokz Aeropex All sound is vibration and these strange but

lighter than previous efforts as well as being

rather wonderful headphones work by bone

water resistant to IP67 standards (1 metre of

conduction with the music relayed in vibrations

water for 30 minutes). They loop over your

sent into the top of your jaw and from there to

ear and round the back of your head without

your inner ear and brain. In bypassing your ears,

touching your neck, gently squeezing your head

the headphones free them up to listen to what’s

just below your temples. The vibration is not

going on around you (which might be someone telling you that you are “supposed to put your headphones in your ears, you know”). This is especially useful if you are cycling or running outdoors when you need to be aware of outside

24

unpleasant, but sound quality cannot match in-ear alternatives.

For: Wearer remains aware of outside sounds, remains in place during intensive exercise.

Against: Sound quality and volume are weak.

sounds for your own safety. The Aeropex are

Price: US$ 194

AfterShokz’s latest model and are smaller and

amazon.com

Best budget option…

Anker Soundcore Spirit X 2019 When you consider what you get for the money, these Bluetooth headphones are the perfect budget buy. They have an IP68 water resistance rating (working at a depth of 1.5 metres of water for 30 minutes) which means you don’t have to worry about sudden downpours on your outdoor run or sweating up a storm yourself. They have an overear hook, which guarantees they stay in place during your exertions and the fit is further stabilised by the wings that secure the earbuds in your ear and tips that go into your ear canal. You can connect via Bluetooth to two devices simultaneously and they will last up to 18 hours on one full charge.

For: Water resistant, adjustable fit, price.

Against: Sound quality is average at best and there is no noise cancelling.

Price: US$ 45 amazon.com

Super sound quality…

Beats Powerbeats Pro These Apple headphones have all the features that make the tech pioneer’s Airpods such a winner, but they are far more workout-friendly being light and comfortable with a mouldable over-ear-loop design for an unshakeably secure fit. The earbud tip offers reasonable isolation and the IPX4 water resistance is strong enough to protect against showers and your own sweat. As you’d expect from the Beats range, the sound is deep and strong to drive you to that running PB. Battery life is a class-leading eight hours.

For: Superb fit; good sound quality.

Against: Massive charging case; water resistance could be improved.

Price: US$ 285 amazon.com

Great sound and stability…

Bose Soundsport Wireless For great sound coupled with stability and comfort, these running and gym headphones are among the best you’ll find for the price. The two earbuds are linked with a soft cable and each is secured in place with an in-ear hook. Bose’s patented Stayhear+ Sport silicone tips are designed to improve in-ear stability, noise reduction and fit. They fit securely in the ear with no need to push them into place and use the ridge of your ear for added support. The headphones come complete with a lightweight remote and are sweat-resistant and IPX4 splashproof, too. The battery life is only six hours, but unless you’re setting off on an ultra marathon that should be sufficient.

For: Comfort; stability; good price.

Against: Modest battery life.

Price: US$ 132 amazon.com

Best for bass… JBL Reflect Flow Earbuds can be a bit lacking in the lower registers as they don’t seal in the sound, but if you are desperate for some bass lows to accompany your running highs, the JBL Reflect Flow is for you. Its 5.8mm driver featuring JBL Signature Sound will provide your music with the punch you’re after. Add to this an impressive 30 hours battery life, three silicone tips to find your fit and a waterproof rating to see you through the toughest workout in any weather and you’ve got a real winner.

For: Strong bass depth; long battery life.

Against: Bluetooth connectivity could be better.

Price: US$ 93 amazon.com

FLYafrica 25

Haillie Sumney

‘I have always been told I have a fierce look, but I promise I don’t bite’ Born in Ghana and raised in the US and Canada, Haillie Sumney is a red-carpet queen, whether interviewing stars at events such as the 2018 Bet Awards in Los Angeles or grabbing the headlines for the show-stopping outfits she wears. She has also hosted high profile events such as the Ghana Music Awards, the MTN 4syte TV Awards and the Ghana Entertainment Awards and has acted in a host of hit films here and in Nigeria.

FLYafrica gets to spend some quality time with the ‘Ghana Goddess’ as she shares the Accra restaurant, she would pick for her ideal date night, why caring for others is so important to her and the reason she has such cause to smile now.

STYLE QUEEN Haillie Sumney

26

Images courtesy of Haillie Sumney and NANA GAZA

Q

Before you got your first break in the entertainment indus-

I have interviewed the comedian Michael Blackson at

try, you trained and worked as a

the BET awards and also the

nurse in the US and your parents

Afrima Awards and I enjoyed

are both doctors. Was setting

that for obvious reasons. He

up the Sumney Foundation [an

is hilarious and makes the

NGO focused on helping under-

interviews fun and easy.

privileged children and women] an extension of the caring for others

Q: You are a Ghanaian

that motivated you as a nurse?

fashionista and an ambas-

Setting up The Sumney

sador for shoe brand Jesu

Foundation was a way of giving

Segun London and Senak

back to society, but also for those

Hair Collection? Do you think

who don’t know I grew up in a

you have a signature look

humanitarian background. My

and what effect do you like

parents were both missionaries and

to create with the looks you

also have owned an NGO named

choose?

Mission Africa Inc for more than 20

I like to call myself simply

years. I remember in my younger

fashionable. I don’t like to

days my brothers and I would follow

overdo fashion. I like to keep

my parents to several donation

it simple and cute yet a bit

events and help out. Also, as you

daring. Jesu Segun London

say, being a nurse before becoming

and Senak Hair are all about

actress, it was only right. I guess I am

elegant simplicity so it works

kind of following in their footsteps in

perfect for me representing

that respect.

their brands.

Q: Red-carpet events are pressur-

Q: Where do you think your

ised environments. You don’t have

love of performing comes

long with your interviewee. How do

from? Was it part of your life

you try to put them at ease and get

growing up?

revealing answers from them?

I have had the opportunity to

I always wanted to be an actress and model and at the same time a paediatrician. So, I guess I dabbled in both in the long run

I have two brothers who are musi-

to acting so playing an opposite character is quite fun for me. It

cians – Moses Sumney in Hollywood

also allows me to live my life briefly

host high profile events like the

and Nhyira Sumney, aka Shizzle, in

outside the norm and look at the

red carpet for the BET awards in

Ghana who are both doing quite well

other side of things.

Hollywood courtesy of 4syte TV,

if I do say so myself – so I guess it

where I first made my debut as a TV

runs in the blood.

presenter and also the Ghana Movie

I always wanted to be an actress

Q: You are in the public eye and have a bold look and glamorous

Awards. I like to study the person

and model and at the same time a

lifestyle, but I have read that you

before interviewing them. For

paediatrician. So, I guess I dabbled in

are quite a shy person. Has working

example, if the person seems a bit

both in the long run. I remember my

in the entertainment industry been

tense, I start off super friendly and

mum taking us for auditions in LA

a way to combat that shyness or do

crack a joke to break the ice. And

and being involved in plays and small

you have public/private personas

usually this works and I just work my

commercials when we were young.

that are very different?

Q: You have built a very recognis-

know about me is that I am quite the

more events I have hosted the easier

able public persona with your

shy person. So much so it is mistaken

it has become for me. One technique

presenting work and online pres-

for arrogance, but when people get

I practise and recommend is asking

ence, do you think that makes it

closer, they always say: “Wow, you’re

and answering a few questions in

harder for audiences to see you

such a nice person.” Of course, being

portraying different fictional char-

in this type of industry I’m overcom-

acters as an actress? Do you enjoy

ing that shyness day in day out but

Q: Who has been your favour-

playing characters that may be a

it’s much better than before. For

ite celebrity to interview and

long way from your true self?

example, I see a big difference from

way in with questions.

I used to get quite nervous but the

front of the mirror the day before.

why?

So one thing a lot of people don’t

I love a challenge when it comes

two years ago and now.

FLYafrica 27

Q: You seem to be into your food and

Q: What would your ideal weekend

love sampling new cuisine and new

in Ghana involve?

restaurants. If you wanted to impress

My ideal weekend in Ghana would

someone for dinner where would you

definitely have to end up at the

take them in Ghana and who would

beach at some point. I love water

be your ideal dinner date?

and we have some nice beaches and

I love, love, love food and trying

resorts. And of course, as I stated

new dishes. I love sushi, lasagne and

earlier, I love, love, love food so some

waakye. Ha ha ha! What a combo.

fine dining would be a lovely idea or

I can eat anything from Malawian

better yet, some lovely home cooking

cuisine to Italian, Ghanaian and

from me with a nice bottle of wine.

Lebanese. I love it all.

My ideal date would be at Santoku,

SHY Haillie says she is far more comfortable in the public eye now

Q: Your Snapchat handle is ‘Ghana

a Japanese fine dining restaurant in

Goddess’. You are obviously very

Accra and my ideal person to take…

proud of your heritage. What do

well, you will have to find that out

you think makes your country so

later. Ha ha!

special?

Q: Who have been your greatest

Goddess”. A name I acquired after

inspirations and why?

high school among friends appar-

My nickname is “The Ghana

FILM STAR Haillie has appeared in a string of hit movies

I am active in both Ghallywood and

My parents have definitely been

ently because of how graceful I

Nollywood equally, I would say. I have

my greatest inspiration. They’re one

am and how I carry myself and I

a series I featured in called ‘Eden’

strong body and have achieved

heard I dress like a goddess. Quite

that is now available on Google Play

so much. They relocated back to

interesting, huh? So, I decided to

and Amazon Prime so I’m super

Ghana at over 40 years old, started

keep the name and use it in showbiz.

excited about that. There is also a

from scratch and achieved a lot and

It sounds catchy. Ghana is a very

movie I had a lead role in called ‘A

opened several businesses. They

peaceful country and has developed

Woman’s Scorn’ which can be seen

were my encouragement to move

quite quickly. I love my Ghana.

on IROKOtv and Rok on Dstv. And

back home from California and I do not regret it one bit.

of course, my all-time favourite ‘Real Q: You are a major player in

Lagos Fake Life” on Netflix.

Nollywood and Ghallywood with Q: Who would you like to say

your latest film the comedy ‘2

‘sorry’ to?

Days After Friday’. Do you see the

I would probably say sorry to

Ghanaian film industry expand-

anyone I have offended unknowingly.

ing and do you any film projects in

We grow and we learn.

development?

Q: I see you have been promoting FIERCE FASHION One of Haillie’s headturning looks

ceramic braces and have had a set fitted yourself. You always look fantastic in your pictures, but I rarely see you smiling. Were you selfconscious about your teeth?

I have always been told I have a fierce look. Smiling hasn’t really been my thing. I was once told I have the [UK pop star-turned fashion designer] Victoria Beckham look.

She’s always serious. Hilarious. But I promise I don’t bite. But being a face for Zoe Premium Dental Ghana and getting a smile make over from them has definitely boosted my smile confidence and made me smile more.

I can’t deny that.

Follow Haillie Facebook: Haillie Sumney Snapchat: theghanagoddess Instagram: @hailliesumneyofficial Twitter: @hailliesumney YouTube: Haillie Sumney TV

28

Beauty FLYAfrica has a new beauty columnist, Ghanaian make-up artist and vlogger Alexandrina.

She is the founder and CEO of Alexiglam, a beauty brand and studio based in Accra, and her make-up skills have been used by homegrown stars such as Juliet Ibrahim and Joselyn Dumas as well as on the catwalk at the New York Fashion show.

New year beauty resolutions We are at that time of the year, when we welcome in the new year so let’s make some beauty resolutions and keep to them throughout 2021.

Inner nutrition Cut out fast food, processed sugars, lactose (sometimes), red meats, fizzy drinks and GMO foods and replace them with natural sugars, fibre, probiotics, white meats, organic fruits and vegetables. The change will leave you with skin that reflects your healthy gut.

Beauty resolution #1 I will be aware of what I fuel my body with, and will do my best to always choose healthier food options.

Skin care and beauty routines We are not all born with flawless skin. As we age, great skin requires patience, investment, discipline and commitment.

Beauty Resolution #2 I will educate myself on skincare as it pertains to my skin; by speaking to a licensed aesthetician regularly and scheduling customized facials to suit my skin’s needs.

Out with the old, in with the new All cosmetics have a shelf life, best before date and expiry date; this is because the efficacy of most chemical ingredients contained in these products, deteriorate with time and atmosphere.

Beauty Resolution #3 I shall regularly check and throw out all my old expired makeup cosmetics and skincare. Check batch numbers at checkcosmetic.net, cosmeticswizard.net or the ‘Beauty Keeper iPhone app.

Inflight mindfulness with Bliss Yoga Accra @blissyogaaccra

Nana Amoaka-Anin is the founder of Osu yoga and wellness centre Bliss Yoga and she is also, we are very pleased to say, FLYafrica’s new inflight mindfulness teacher.

In each issue she will guide you through a physically and spiritually relaxing practice to make your flight fly by.

Movements To Loosen Up Your Joints Flying can cause discomfort in your entire body.

That’s because sitting for extended periods of time, even if your flight is just an hour, can make your body stiff. Here are three easy aircraft exercises to break that inactivity during your flight, no matter what seat you’re in. And yes, you can stretch with little space.

Roll Your Joints Drop your head to your neck and slowly roll to your right shoulder, holding a few seconds before rolling to your left shoulder. Next, roll both shoulders forward in a circular motion; then repeat the roll backwards. Do the same thing with your wrists and ankles.

Twist One of the best stretches is the spinal twist. To do it, cross your right leg over your left leg and place your left hand on your right knee, right hand on the back of the seat. Inhale and lengthen your spine as you rotate your torso to the right. Hold five to 10 seconds, and then repeat on the other side.

Take a stroll Getting up out of your seat regularly and walking up and down the aisle is key to increasing blood flow to your muscles. Aim to walk at least once on a short flight.

For my beauty and skincare items, visit my Instagram page @alexiglam and send me a DM. Follow my personal beauty journey @alexandrinamakeup

Find out more about the classes at blissyogaaccra.com or @blissyogaaccra Instagram FLYafrica 29

WINafrica

FLYafrica competition

Win a night-for-two at La Villa Boutique Hotel, Accra La Villa Boutique Hotel is ideally located in the heart of Osu, Accra’s cultural hotspot, with many of the city’s best bars, restaurants, nightclubs, shops and art galleries just moments away on Oxford Street. Amid the thriving urban streets, the hotel provides an oasis of calm with lush, manicured grounds shrouding a beautiful pool and bar area and there is a spa for even deeper relaxation. The stylish welcome continues in its rooms and suites and its newly refurbished deluxe restaurant Soprano, which serves a range of Italian, African and plant-based cuisine to pair with a rich choice of wines and signature cocktails.

FLYafrica has teamed up with La Villa Boutique to offer one of our lucky readers and a guest of their choice a night’s stay at one of Accra’s favourite hotels. To be in with a chance of it being you, answer the three questions below and email them along with a photograph of yourself holding an edition of FLYafrica 9 on your flight, to awacompetition@landmarine.org Good luck!

QUESTIONS 1. What is the name of Sai Wine Café’s homegrown red wine made with cocoa and hibiscus?

2. The Farmington Hotel, in Liberia, is just moments from which airport?

3. What is the nickname (and Snapchat handle) of TV host and fashionista Haillie Sumney?

COMPETITION TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Closing date is 10 February 2021. 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, La Villa Boutique Hotel or Land & Marine Publications Ltd.

CONGRATULATIONS WELL DONE TO LAST ISSUE’S WINNER MARTIN KYEI He will soon be enjoying a month’s free membership at Fitrip in Accra, Ghana’s biggest gym. Martin, we hope you enjoy your stay and thank you for flying Africa World Airlines.

To find out more about Fitrip, visit fitripgh.com.

Book online

ER N IN W

Martin Kyei

flyAfricaWorld.com FLYafrica

31

EATafrica

The maquis of Abidjan If you want to get a true flavour – both culinary and cultural – of life in Abidjan, head for the city’s many maquis. These family-run open-air restaurants are where Ivorians eat, drink and relax. Don’t expect fancy surroundings – maquis literally translates as ‘scrub’ or ‘brush’ – and you’ll be eating with your hands, but the food is freshly prepared, inexpensive and the menu packed with Ivorian classic dishes. An obvious place to start is Les Mille Maquis (the thousand maquis), a vibrant strip of these rustic restaurants in the Marcory district, but the city is peppered with fine examples. Here is FLYafrica’s top five.

Chez Ambroise

Maquis du Val

even snail. Desserts include the

On an expanse of sand – there is no

This gastronomic institution has

delicious banana cake.

beach in sight, but go with it – close

been around since the 1980s in

to the Sainte-Thérèse de Marcory

which time it has expanded into

Church in the heart of the city lies

a massive two-storey restaurant

Chez Ambroise.

with a reputation for serving

Its rows of plastic tables and chairs are filled each evening with locals

Ivorian specialities with flair.

Maquis du Val attracts

enjoying the best brochettes (grilled

Abidjan’s great and the good

meat or fish on skewers) in the city

with a VIP room favoured by

served with attiéké (cassava cous-

ministers and ambassadors

cous), yam fries or alloco (plantain

while the rest of us get to enjoy

fried in oil).

the lively ambiance of the main

The place’s popularity means

hall.

there can be quite a wait for food,

The food is the real star –

but there is a well-stocked bar and

meticulously prepared and in

plenty of friendly Abidjans to chat to

portions to satisfy even the

in the meantime.

heartiest of appetites.

Where to find: Boulevard Loraine

include kedjenou (a spicy stew)

Hours: 4pm to 3.30am

made with a choice of guinea

How to book: Call +225 05 78 36 00

fowl, fresh seafood, chicken or

Traditional Ivorian dishes

32

Where to find: Rue Ste Marie Hours: Sunday/Monday 8am to 6pm.

GRILLED Fresh cooked tilapia

Tuesday to Saturday 8am to 12am How to book: Call +225 22 44 04 64

The Maquis menu Look out for these classic dishes for a true Ivorian culinary experience

BOULENGER Xavier | Shutterstock.com

Poulet braisé (braised chicken): The chicken is marinated in Dijon mustard and accompanied with vampire-frightening levels of garlic before being grilled. It is then dished on a bed of raw onions, tomatoes, and green peppers.

Chez Hélène

from the art works that cover the

The sizzle and smoke from this popular

walls to the cool piped music and the

street food establishment’s bank of

friendly, attentive staff. The food is

barbecue grills draws you towards its

good too with braised and grilled meat

tucked-away location in a pedestrian-

and fish and a large range of accompa-

only side street in the city’s Cocody

nying sauces (the cassava leaf sauce is

quarter. A team of women chefs

especially good) as well as some classic

prepare brochettes as well as whole-

French dishes.

grilled grouper and a range of spicy soups accompanied by a choice of fries or rice. This place is open around the clock so it is a popular stop-off when

Where to find: Rue du Canal Hours: 8am to 12am How to book: Call +225 21 35 66 18

hunger hits after a night out for locals.

‘Le Poulet avec les doigts’

Where to find: Deux Plateaux

This maquis in the Treichville district

Hours: Open 24 hours How to book: Call +225 07 61 83 01

Maquis Temps Libre

Attiéké: This dish is made from crumbled cassava pulp. Once it is dried it resembles cous-cous and is the carb-rich accompaniment to many Ivorian meals.

Aloco: Fried plantains that are usually served with tomato sauce that can be made extra fiery with crushed hot peppers.

is so unassuming it doesn’t even have a name, though it is well known by locals, in translation, as “chicken with the fingers” owing to the melt-in-your-

This charming space in the city’s

mouth chicken it dishes up. Its aloco

expat-packed Zone 4 has a bar and

(fried plantain) is a similarly finger-

coffee shop as well as an excellent

lickin’ accompaniment and brings in

restaurant with indoor seating and an

hungry diners from far and wide. A

outdoor terrace.

trip here is to soak up the true ‘Treich’

There’s a soothing ambience here

Poisson braise (braised fish): Tilapia, catfish, carp, soul and grouper are the popular fish here and for this dish they are is seasoned and coated in a blend of spices, then barbecued.

street food experience. Bon appetit!

Chez Hélène stays open around the clock so it is a popular stop-off when hunger hits after a night out for locals

Escargots: Bringing a new meaning to slow food, giant forest snails are a delicacy in the Côte d’Ivoire. They are enormous, slimy and not for the faint of heart (or stomach).

FLYafrica 33

The Accra hit-list

The best new hospitality options in the capital Accra’s diverse hospitality scene has adapted to the pandemic and according to Anita Ottenhof, the founder of consulting, recruitment and concierge service Core Hospitality GH, there is still a flow of new bars, restaurants and hotels that are arriving and creating memorable experiences in these uncertain times.

I

love living in Accra. When I look back to 2012, the year I first moved to this city, I must say the capital of Ghana has become a true metropolis – dynamic, fast- paced and with an

endless number of things to do for visitors and residents.

Just like the rest of the world Ghana has been seriously affected

by Covid-19, however the recovery here has been smoother than that of most other cities. Mandatory face mask-wearing and the temperature check rule have meant the city has been able to return to some kind of normality, but let’s keep it real in these uncertain times when you decide to go out, it has to be memorable. Here is my pick of new arrivals on the hospitality scene.

It is a great time to be in Ghana, for further information and other recommendations feel free to connect with me via

Bondai Where: Corner 14th Lane and Dadebu St, Osu Social media: @bondai.gh Instagram and Facebook My absolute favourite new restaurant is Bondai, located in energetic Osu and open seven days a week. Ambience is the first element I look for when deciding on where to go for lunch or dinner and this welcoming venue has it in abundance with an elegantly paired colour scheme and plenty of natural plants for a fresh feel. Its Mediterranean and Japanese menu is a delight for a foodie like myself.

If you make it to Bondai do try their goat cheese and beetroot salad with walnut. You can thank me later.

Instagram @anitaottenhof or via corehospitalitygh.com

Ada Contemporary Art Gallery Where: Regent Hotel, Villagio Vista, North Airport Road Social media: @ada_accra Founded by Nigerian-Ghanaian art advisor Adora Mba, the Ada Contemporary Art Gallery is focused on giving emerging African artists a platform for their work.

It supports fresh talent, giving many artists their first public exhibition as well as running off-site projects. Until January 10, the gallery has an exhibition of the work of Nigerian artist Eniwaye Oluwaseyi, called ‘The Politics of Shared Spaces’, on display.

34

Sandbox Beach Club

Bella Afrik

Where: South Labadi Estates

Where: Liberation Road,

Social media: @sandboxbc Instagram

Social media: @bellaafrik_restaurant

Finally, a real beach club in Accra. This is a dream come true for us that love the beach, appreciate good service and don’t have the time to travel out of town. The design of the building itself is spectacular, a bespoke and unique Ghanaian sense of space designed by the award-winning architects Adjaye Associates. In terms of entertainment Sandbox has proven to be a groundbreaker. Regular events attract international artists and Sunday brunches here are crowd pullers.

For a laid-back dining experience, I must recommend Bella Afrik at Afrikiko. This Italian-style restaurant is a delight and a must experience for those after an authentic pizza and pasta experience. I love the fact that many dishes are freshly made by chef /owner Claudio. Situated in a serene garden environment next to the busy Liberation Road, it is a true escape from the hustle and bustle of Accra.

The Galleria Accra Where: Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City, Gamel Abdul Nasser Avenue This place opened its doors two years ago but the arrival of new stores means there is no better time than now to give this mall a visit. With The Versace Collection Ghana taking the lead and the recently opened Chocolate Clothing by the Ghanaian fashion designer Kwaku Bediako you can experience a true luxury retail experience at this 6,000 square metre mall opposite the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra.

Beach resorts While restrictions have been placed on international flights, domestic travel has experienced a boom in the past three months. I love this development and Ghana, with its 550 km of coastline, now has some new beach resorts to explore along with its raft of historical attractions. A trio of resorts I am very much looking forward to visiting soon The Safari Valley Resort in Adukrom, The C Resort in Prampram and The Eli Beach Resort in Keta.

The Lotte Where: Stanbic Heights, Icon House Social media: @thelotteaccra The growing sense of ownership of Ghanaian and African art, music and fashion is seen all through the city and since December there has been a one-stop shop for lovers of African brands such as Minku, Kinkou, Talata and Nokware, Simone & Elise, Ohemaa, Larry Jay, Nana Wax, Wote, Funke Adepoju and many more. The Lotte is Ghana’s premier boutique and curated African concept store located at Icon House on the ground floor. From décor, to beauty and of course unique fashion pieces. They also offer great gift options for friends and family.

FLYafrica 35

DRIVEafrica

The VW Tiguan, made in Ghana VW assembly begins in Ghana with the help of local dealers Universal Motors

HISTORIC VW Tiguan

36

Images courtesy of Volkswagen AG

to drive and does it make financial

choose a version with larger rims –

sense to choose a new locally built

but compared with its competitors,

model over a used import?

the Tiguan is reassuringly stable and

As you’d expect from VW, the Tiguan is solid rather than flashy

T

comfortable.

The starting price for Tiguan in

and very nicely screwed together (in

Ghana is around GHS 170,700 and

Ghana, of course). The Tiguan sits

there are a variety of models from

somewhere between the T-Roc and

which to choose and these are

the Touareg in VW’s pretty impres-

badged as Trendline, Comfortline,

sive SUV line-up and uses VAG’s

Highline and Highline Plus. Engine

ubiquitous MQB platform. As a result,

sizes offered are 1.4 TSI and 2.0 litre

it shares underpinnings with others

TSI. The Tiguan is only available

in the group such as the Audi Q3, the

as an automatic and, unlike many

Škoda Octavia and the Seat León.

European markets, there’s no diesel

The Tiguan boasts a spacious

option. The mighty Amarok pick-up

cabin, has a functional but neatly laid

is the only VW sold in Ghana with a

out dashboard and there’s plenty of

diesel engine.

rear legroom. In many SUVs the boot

his is truly a historic time

space is something of a disappoint-

Smooth

for Ghana – at least in terms

ment, but the Tiguan’s is certainly

The petrol engines are especially

of manufacturing. Clearly,

large enough for most buyers and

smooth, even when being worked

it’s not been a good year in many

with a useful under-floor storage area

hard. The 2.0-litre units get a little

other respects but at last and with

(that also contains a get-you-home

noisy when you’re exploring the

massive support from the Ghanaian

spare wheel). If it’s more rear-end

upper reaches of the rev range, but

government, the nation now has

space that’s needed, then taken a

at a constant speed they quieten

its own nascent vehicle assembly

look at the equally excellent Tiguan

down considerably.

sector – and one that’s set to grow

Allspace that’s set to be released in

in the years ahead.

early 2021.

Ghana has decided to reduce its

In the final analysis this is a supremely well-engineered car and one that will no doubt enjoy rock-

past over-reliance on imported used

Calm control

cars over 10 years old and abolish

In terms of handling, then the Tiguan

Added to which and for the first

salvaged vehicles. Instead Ghana

behaves more like a conventional

time, Ghanaian buyers not only have

has encourage automakers to set up

hatchback than many of its SUV

a locally assembled car in the Tiguan

shop in the country.

rivals and rides well and easily

but also four more VW models

smoothes out any road imperfec-

“Made in Ghana” – the previously

has been built by VW – and with

tions. On patched-up roads and

mentioned Amarok, the Passat, the

the help of local dealers Universal

broken Tarmac the Tiguan can be

Teramont and the Polo hatchback. It

Motors. As it is, VW already assem-

a little unsettled – especially if you

really is a win-win situation.

The first of these assembly plants

solid residuals in the years ahead.

bles cars in South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria and Rwanda. VW has chosen its SUV Tiguan as its launch model and it’s now on sale at Universal Motors’ Graphic Road showroom.

But what’s the Tiguan actually like

The Tiguan behaves more like a conventional hatchback than many of its SUV rivals

FLYafrica 37

AWAnews extra AWA’s covid safety measures among best in Africa Independent watchdog Safe Travel Barometer has rated Africa World Airlines as the second safest airline in Africa with regards to how it has carried out its COVID-19 safety protocols.

benchmark supplier initiatives in the travel, tourism and hospitality industry for the post-COVID world.

AWA scored 3.8 out of 5 in an audit of measures taken that included disinfection frequency, face mask usage, hand sanitizer usage and other key activities to combat the spread of COVID-19 during the travel process.

The Safe Travel Score is based on an independent audit of 29 traveller health and safety measures, along with traveller convenience initiatives and overall traveller experience announced by airports, regulatory and government authorities to alleviate traveller anxiety and boost confidence.

Safe Travel Barometer is the world’s most comprehensive solution to monitor and

Visit flyafricaworld.com for all COVID-19 related updates. #flyAWA #flysafeflyconfident

FLYafrica 39

INVESTMENT market review Brought to you by: Strategic African Securities Limited

Equities continue to trade in value territory Listed Ghanaian banks account for a significant share of the capitalisation of the stock market and it is fair to expect the recent sector cleanup and demonstrated operating resilience in a pandemic to help lift share prices generally. But, deep in 2020, equities continue to extend a nearly three-year bearish price trend.

As at the end of September, 2020, the GSE Composite Index posted a return of -17.75%, on higher volume and value traded, compared to -14.28% in 2019. The Financial Services Index posted a return of -17.03% versus -12.05%.

To be fair, the directive by the Bank of Ghana, at the start of the COVID pandemic, for banks to suspend dividend payments, appears to be affecting investor demand for bank shares.

We repeat that the extended selling over the past two years 40

Number of Listed Securities 39 Total Market Value GH₵53.16 billion Top 10 Companies by Market Value (GH₵ million) Company Tullow Oil Anglogold Ashanti MTN Ghana Ecobank Ghana Standard Chartered Agricultural Development Bank Ecobank Transnational GCB Bank Access Bank Unilever Ghana Others

Stock Market Indices

The top performing counters year-to-date include New Gold ETF, Cocoa Processing, SIC Insurance, Camelot and Aluworks; the latter four from low bases. Fan Milk, Unilever Ghana and Guinness Ghana led decliners.

Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE)

Total Market Cap.

Market Cap.

%

16,829.22 31.66% 15,329.93 28.84% 7,497.19 14.10% 2,257.86 4.25% 1,886.62 3.55% 1,755.58 3.30% 1,444.07 2.72% 980.50 1.84% 763.63 1.44% 638.13 1.20% 3,776.98 7.10% 53,159.71

100%

Source: SAS Research

offers opportunities to purchase good quality shares at significant discounts. Instead of timing the market bottom, discerning investors can take advantage of emerging value opportunities to rebalance their portfolios.

Bank profits have increased year-on-year, in a mixed reporting season GCB Bank reported strong revenue growth of 22.5% y/y to GH₵1.39 billion for the first nine

Share Price Activity Top 5 Advancers Open Close YTD Change New Gold 54.00 Cocoa Processing Company 0.02 SIC Insurance Company Limited 0.08 Camelot Ghana Limited 0.09 Aluworks Limited 0.10

90.90 0.03 0.10 0.11 0.11

68.33% 50.00% 25.00% 22.22% 10.00%

Top 5 Decliners Open Close YTD Change Fan Milk Limited 4.12 Unilever Ghana Limited 16.40 Guinness Ghana Breweries Limited 1.69 Ecobank Ghana Limited 8.09 Republic Bank Ghana Ltd 0.56 Source: GSE, SAS Equities Desk 1 Jan - 30 Sept, 2020

1.05 9.21 1.00 5.40 0.41

-74.51% -43.84% -40.83% -33.25% -26.79%

Profit after Tax (in GH₵ million) of selected banks

Source: SAS Research

months of 2020. Net Profit increased 26.1% y/y to GH₵0.29 billion. (Dividend of GH₵0.20 per share for 2019).

Societe Generale reported a 7.5% revenue growth y/y to GH₵0.41 billion for the third quarter. Net profit increased 13.4% to GH₵93.5 million. (Dividend of GH₵0.045 per share for 2019).

Ecobank Ghana reported revenue of GH₵1.35 billion for the third quarter of the year, growth of 20.2% y/y. Net Profit increased 15.6% y/y to GH₵0.39 billion.

(Dividend of GH₵0.30 per share for 2019).

Standard Chartered Bank reported revenue growth of 23.4% y/y to GH₵0.77 billion. Net profit increased 69.8% y/y to GH₵0.34 billion. (Ordinary dividend of GH₵1.56 per share for 2019 and preference dividend of GH₵0.0471 for 31st March, 2020 to 30th September, 2020).

Agricultural Development Bank reported a 22.3% y/y rise in revenue to GH₵0.39 billion for the third quarter of 2020. Net Profit doubled y/y to GH₵60.13 million.

Access Bank reported revenue of GH₵0.48 billion, growth of 47.1% y/y for the first nine months of 2020. Net profit increased 35% to GH₵0.21 billion.

Unilever’s revenue declined 6.7% y/y to GH₵0.32 billion for the first nine months of 2020.

Net loss improved 73.7% y/y to a loss of GH₵12.88 million.

GOIL reported a 22.5% y/y decline in revenue to GH₵3.62 billion for the third quarter. Net Profit declined 20.6% y/y to GH₵77.20 million. (Dividend of GH₵0.045 per share for 2019).

TOTAL reported a 45.1% y/y jump in third quarter net profit, to GH₵69.93 million, on a higher gross margin. Revenue for the quarter was GH₵1.74 billion, down 10.3% y/y.

(Interim dividend of GH₵0.0694 per share for 2020).

Benso Oil Palm Plantation reported revenue of GH₵89.67 million, up 14.1% y/y. Net profit increased by 80% y/y to GH₵13.67 million. (Dividend of GH₵0.055 per share for 2019).

MTN Ghana grew its revenue 19.3% to GH₵4.46 billion in the first nine months of the year and reported profit after tax of GH₵1.05 billion, up 53.1%.

Higher treasury yields are expected The Bank of Ghana lowered its Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) to 14.5% (from 16.0%) in March, to accommodate a relatively weak economic and business environment.

Treasury yields, especially the shorter term, have traded softer across the curve since the first quarter of 2020, but remain attractive.

Third quarter net profit at CAL Bank increased by nearly 4% y/y to GH₵0.14 billion. Revenue was reported at GH₵0.49 billion, up 11.9% y/y. (Dividend of GH₵0.089 per share for 2019).

Based on large fiscal deficit projections, expectations are that net treasury issuance would remain high over the next year. Government has published plans to raise a total of GH₵22.19 billion, ranging between the 91-day to the 20-year maturities, in the last quarter of 2020.

Fan Milk’s revenue for the first nine months of 2020 declined 19% y/y to GH₵0.27 billion. Net Profit fell 87.5% y/y to a loss of GH₵2.40 million, on high overheads.

The most recent bond issuances saw increasing yields, and there are strong expectations that the curve could steepen further over the next few months.

Treasury Yields

Avg. Open

Avg. % Close Changes

91 Day Tbill

14.67%

14.04%

-4.32%

182 Day Tbill

15.15%

14.15%

-6.62%

364 Day Bill

17.83%

16.99%

-4.73%

2 Year Note

20.20%

18.25%

-9.65%

3 Year Bond

20.75%

19.00%

-8.43%

5 Year Bond

21.70%

19.25%

-11.29%

7 Year Bond

20.20%

20.00%

-0.99%

10 Year Bond

19.80%

19.80%

0.00%

15 Year Bond 20.00%

20.00%

0.00%

20 Year Bond 20.20%

20.20%

0.00%

Source: SAS Fixed Income Desk 1 Jan - 30 Sept, 2020

The Cedi has been fairly stable The Cedi has traded relatively stable against the major trading currencies to date in 2020. Headline inflation remained within the BoG’s target of 8.0 +/- 2% for the most part of the year. Treasury yields have also been attractive enough to restrain significant income and portfolio outflows.

The BoG has also been supportive of the Cedi through relatively high FX reserve levels, and its new FX forward auction market moderates FX demand.

GH₵ Exchange Rates Currency

Avg. Open

US Dollar

5.5342

5.7027 -2.95%

Pound Sterling

7.2759

7.3585

Canadian Dollar

4.2579

4.2818 -0.56%

South African Rand 0.3941

0.3414 15.44%

Euro

-1.12%

6.1835 6.6786 -7.41%

Chinese Renmimbi 0.7951 Nigerian Naira

Avg. % Close Change

0.8378 -5.10%

55.5636 66.9420 -17.00%

Source: Bank of Ghana, SAS Research 1 Jan - 30 Sept, 2020

Find out more Strategic African Securities Limited, 14th Floor, World Trade Centre, Independence Avenue, Accra Tel: +233 302 661 990 / 770 / 008 Email: info@sasghana.com, research@sasghana.com www.sasghana.com FLYafrica

41

STAYafrica

The Farmington Hotel, Liberia The 164-room Farmington is Liberia’s largest and most luxurious hotel with an infinity pool – another first in the country – among its high-end facilities. A matter of metres from Roberts International Airport, it provides an ideal introduction to the country for overseas visitors while also being a riverside escape for Monrovians wanting a break from the city bustle. FLYafrica takes a closer look.

Location Liberia’s president is former European Footballer of the Year George Weah and you can barely squeeze a football pitch into the space between Roberts International Airport and the Farmington Hotel, it’s that close. Such proximity and free transfers to and from the airport, mean the hotel is an ideal night’s stay whether you coming into the country or about to leave. However, the hotel still emanates a sense of tranquil escape with its ornate gardens bordering the Farmington River, here at its most glassy before it winds south to meet the Atlantic Ocean at Marshall. If you hanker for bustle and beaches, the capital Monrovia is only an hour’s drive away and wildlife adventures beckon to the east with Sapo National Park, which contains some of West Africa’s last remaining primary rainforest

42

packed with forest elephants, pygmy hippos, chimpanzees and antelopes.

Style and character The new build was opened in 2017 by Campbell Gray Hotels and has the understated luxury and warm welcome associated with the international hospitality company, which has a portfolio of exclusive venues in Beirut, Bahrain and Porto. A slick,

INFINITE LUXURY The Farmington’s riverside pool

Images courtesy of The Farmington Hotel

If you really want to stretch out there are four types of suite that offer a seating area, dining table and a king size bed

contemporary dĂŠcor and a

the river itself and is surrounded

of suite that offer a seating

relaxed, neutral colour palate

by a large sun deck to take in the

area, dining table and a king

runs through the Farmington.

stunning setting.

sized bed as well as even more

The lobby offers an opulent

space. Choose your view of the

Rooms

airport or the river or opt for the

The Farmington has 164 rooms,

panoramic views of the garden

but each of them gives guests

and river and offers a kitchen

pristine and stylish.

plenty of space. Even the

area, walk-in-wardrobe, meeting

smallest Deluxe Rooms are

room and private hot tub. All

The stylishness continues

sizeable and all enjoy views of

rooms are air-conditioned, have

outside with a glorious infinity

the river. If you really want to

complimentary wi-fi and a flat-

pool that seems to merge with

stretch out there are four types

screen TV.

welcome with marble floors, sculptured overhead lighting and a double height entrance. All the other communal areas are

ultimate Presidential Suite with

FLYafrica 43

EVENT SPACE The hotel is ideal for conferences or weddings

Food and drink The hotel’s restaurant, Toscana, serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with a menu that ranges from tapas-style light-bites to main meals with a Mediterranean flavour. There is also a daily changing specials board of Liberian cuisine. The Lounge Bar is a relaxed spot for drinks, snacks or light meals while the outdoor Pool Bar is the place to enjoy a cocktail while watching the sun sink slowly into the river.

Facilities The hotel has a resort-like range of facilities on offer to guests young and old. As well as the infinity pool there is a large main pool while there is a shallow pool and a play area for children.

There is more opportunity for exercise at the gym, which

44

has a range of cardio and free

Grand Bassa County countryside

weight equipment. There are

or even a deep-sea fishing trip.

also tennis and basketball courts and a stretch of beach running alongside the river which is ideal for soccer or volleyball.

RURAL The Farmington River borders the hotel

Prices Doubles start at US$ 205 a night; suites start at US$ 265 a night.

Hotel staff can organise a traditional canoe ride on the

To book or for more

river, golf at nearby and nine-

information, visit

hole Firestone Golf Club as well

campbellgrayhotels.com/

as hiking trips in the surrounding

farmington-liberia

AWAroutes

Wa Freetown Sierra Leone

Nigeria

Tamale Ghana Côte d’lvoire Monrovia Kumasi Liberia

Abidjan

Abuja Lagos

Takoradi

Explore West Africa with Africa World Airlines GHANA

Accra

Wa

Abidjan

Kotoka International Airport

Wa 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.

AWA is the first airline to operate commercial flights out of Wa Airport, which serves the city of Wa, the capital of Ghana’s Upper West region with a population of 78,000.

Aéroport Félix Houphouët Boigny

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

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

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

CÔTE D’IVOIRE

The economic capital of Côte d’Ivoire is the second largest city in West Africa after Lagos.

Its skyscrapers tower between lagoons and waterways, overlooking the Atlantic.

NIGERIA LIBERIA

Lagos

Monrovia

Murtala Muhammed International Airport

Roberts International Airport

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

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

Abuja

SIERRA LEONE

Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport

Freetown

Capital of Nigeria and one of the fastest-growing cities in the world. Administrative and political centre of Nigeria.

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

Lungi International Airport

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 Connect with AWA Facebook

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Get in touch

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Email Contacts Concerns concerns@flyafricaworld.com Charters charters@flyafricaworld.com Local Offices Accra – Head Office UNA Homes Building 2nd/3rd floor Airport Bypass Road Airport City Road PMB CT67 Accra, Ghana Tel: +233 24 243 8888

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

Kumasi Airport Office Opening hours 05:00 - 20:00 (Monday to Sunday) Tel: +233 30 297 4918

Takoradi Airport Office Opening hours 05:30 - 18:00 (Monday to Saturday) 08:00 - 18:00 (Sunday) Tel: +233 57 770 2854

48

Tamale Airport Office Opening hours 06:00 - 17:30 (Monday to Sunday) Town Office Opposite Block “B” School Zogbeli, Tamale Opening hours 08:00 - 17:00 (Monday to Friday) 09:00 - 14:00 (Saturday and holidays) 12:00 - 17:00 (Sunday) Tel: +233 30 297 4919

Wa Airport office Opening hours 08:00 - 17:00 (Monday to Sunday)

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

Opening hours 05:45 - 16:00 (Monday, Wednesday and Saturday) 08:00 - 18:00 (Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday) 05:45 - 18:00 (Friday)

Abuja Airport Office Public Concourse, Terminal C Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Tel: +234 90 9558 0924

+234 90 9558 0987

+234 90 9558 0960 Email: abujasales@flyafricaworld.com Opening hours 08:00 - 16:00 (Monday, Wednesday and Saturday) 08:00 - 18:00 (Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday)

Abidjan AJ Aviation Imm. Trade Center, AV. Nogues Plateau, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire Tel: +225 75 777777

+225 44807047

Book online

Monrovia Airport Office Roberts International Airport, Lower Margibi County, Monrovia, Liberia Tel: +231 886 691 623

+231 881 108 682/666 Opening hours: 08.00-17.00 (Monday to Sunday) Town Office 1st Floor, Kabah Building Benson/Mechlin Street Tel: +231 77 044 4400/4433

+231 77 545 0010 Email: sales@air-mc.com Opening hours: 09.00-17.00 (Monday to Saturday)

Freetown Airport Office Lungi International Airport Tel: +232 79 630 107 Opening hours 08:00 - 17:00 (Monday to Sunday) Town Office 21/23 Siaka Stevens Street Tel: +232 79 630 103;

+232 88 852 773 Opening hours: 08.30-17.00 (Monday to Friday) 09:00 - 13:00 (Sat)

flyAfricaWorld.com