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FASHION: CATCH THEM YOUNG; GEAR UP WITH CULTURE

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The voice of Africans in the Diaspora

Africans

Zambia’s Future Leaders: UK BECKONS Soyinka At 80: TRIBUTE TO A LEGEND

Hollywood in Their Hands

Davido Headlines ACANA FESTIVAL Gold Galore In Glasgow – HOW SOUTH AFRICA DID IT

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USAfrica

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The voice of Africans in the Diaspora

He Believes He Can Fly!

Jerome Boateng: Ghana’s Gift to Germany Pg. 40

Farewell Mommy B Pg. 17 Beautiful, Bold Enough To Rock These? Pg. 26-28 Wanted By Top Universities Pg. 10

Davido Headlines ACANA Festival Pg. 21

Africa’s Stolen Treasures: Search Begins At Film Village Pg. 22

A Publication of USA Media LLC The voice of Africans in the Diaspora Vol. 2, Issue 2 | 2014 USA Media LLC PRESIDENT ‘Tunde Kolawole, MS, SPHR VICE PRESIDENT, FINANCE/ADMINISTRATION Bola Ajebeku vpfinance@usafricajournal.com

CONTENTS 6

Hooked On Hollywood

Cover 2:

Brook Yeshitila: Immobile, Yet Flying in Living Colors

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ‘Tunde Kolawole editor@usafricajournal.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS A.Obafemi Animasaun, Mark Finlay, Betty John, Patrick Obinna, Jessica Banda, Tosin Obiwale,Esther Olatunde, Isaac Oluwole, Renny Vonne, Alex Baker, Sadiat Makuna, George Igbakhiare, John Kay, Eldana Mengesha. CHIEF ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE, USA Ninilola Ogundare advertise@usafricajournal.com

5 | From the Editor’s Desk:

Ten Minutes Away from Death

13 | News-Africa: UK Invites Zambians; Tutu Goes On Voyage

GRAPHICS graphics@usafricajournal.com

GENERAL MANAGER, AFRICA OPERATIONS Tayo Oluwaseun (Nigeria); 080-55996778 ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES Yemisi Babatunde (Nigeria); 070-84554584 Kemi Jegede(Nigeria); 070-41253004 PUBLISHED BY USA Media LLC, P.O. BOX 33143, Philadelphia, PA 19142 www.usamediallc.com

10 | African Students: Want-

12 | StaightUp Folasophical:

Washington DC/Maryland Bureau Kayode Adewumi kadewumi@usafricajournal.com

Elizabeth Kolawole (Pennsylvania); 610-570-9143 Bisola Adesina (Atlanta, GA); 678-665-7698 Mujidat Irawolomo Shonekan (MD); 240-678-1935 King Sammy (Texas); 281-903-4120 Kola Adaramola (New York, NY); 914-652-6500 Bola Fabiyi (Connecticut); 860-519-8853 Frederick Ebede (Newcastle, DE); 302-690-4881 Folashade Babalola (New Jersey); 862-324-5116 Biodun Ogunnaike (Chicago, Illinois); 708-915-0530 Muyiwa Olawole (United Kingdom) 07952199648 Adetomiwa Olorunsola (Lagos, Nigeria); 080-55785651 Adams Ogamenyi (Abuja, Nigeria); 080-23796382 Idowu Akinrosoye (Ibadan, Nigeria); 080-34660025 For sales inquiries worldwide, call: 1-530-237-4222

Backs Immigrants

ed By All Ivy League Schools

New York Bureau Joseph B. Oyewande nyoffice@usafricajournal.com

SALES REPRESENTATIVES

8 | Editorial: Mayor Nutter

Wedding Bells: Two Heartbeats In Synch

16 | Faith-FULL: Prerequisite For Reward

18 | Health: Healthy Back-toschool Meals

26-29 | Fashion: Catch Them Young…

Arts & Entertainment: Soyinka at 80

30 | Beauty: Stay Sharp 32-33 | Cover Story: Africans

32-33

Who Have Hollywood In Their Hands

SUBSCRIPTIONS To subscribe, email us at subscribe@usafricajournal.com

34 | Business

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36 | Immigration USAfrica Journal makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. All advertisements are presumed true, accurate and published in good faith. USAfrica Journal or its publishing company is not responsible for any errors or omissions, and makes no representation about any of the advertisements published on its pages. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is strictly prohibited.

VOL. 2, ISSUE 2 | 2014

Cover Story: Africans Who Have Hollywood In Their Hands Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje - Jaguar PS / Shutterstock.com Charlize Theron - Bryan Crowe / ©A.M.P.A.S. Chiwetel Ejiofor - Matt Petit / ©A.M.P.A.S. David Oyelowo - Helga Esteb / Shutterstock.com Djimon hounsou - s_bukley / Shutterstock.com Idris Elba - Helga Esteb / Shutterstock.com Lupita Nyong’o - DFree / Shutterstock.com COVER 2: Brook Yeshitila and Artworks – Credit: Brook Yeshitila

37 | Technology: Safe and Sound; No More Abduction

38 | Community Camera 40 - 41 | Sports: Ghana’s Gift To Germany

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK

Hooked On Hollywood “What’s your dream? Everybody comes here; this is Hollywood, land of dreams. Some dreams come true, some don’t; but keep on dreamin’ - this is Hollywood.” That quote from the movie, Pretty Woman, sums up the magic attraction of a city renowned for fleeting images on big screens. Apparently, like millions before us, we have fallen under the spell of Hollywood. Or how else can we explain that several months after our last trip to tinseltown, the magic is yet to wear off our star struck faces. So here we are again, looking at Hollywood from our perspective as Africans in the Diaspora. We see a gentle waterfall streaming down the hilly slope of the iconic Hollywood sign in Los Angeles. Granted it’s not quite a deluge yet, not even close, but the movie industry, nonetheless is gradually getting wet with the sweat of African actors in the Diaspora. In our cover story, we unveil our selection of actors in Hollywood who, regardless of what the

main stream media prefers to call them, are first and foremost Africans. The list is in no way exhaustive; there are many more actors of African origin on the rise or shining in Hollywood than what we can accommodate in one issue of a magazine. Our take on pages 32-33 is just a glimpse at some of those Hollywood movie stars of African origin whose dreams of stardom have come true. And in Ethiopia, a seemingly impossible dream is unfolding. We caught up with Brook Yeshitila, a promising Ethiopian artist who, though bedridden and without the use of most of his limbs, still churns out critically acclaimed art pieces. His story on page 6 is a testament to the resilience and strength in a creative spirit. Here in the United States, it seems the creative juice is flowing to tackle the issue of abduction of children. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, say an estimated 800,000 children are reported missing every year. On page 37, a Nigerian-American doctor says he has perfected the technology that will bring down the numbers

drastically. “Your child or loved one truly deserves the right to go out and enjoy…,” he said. Bet you’ve enjoyed every bit of this warm weather. We did. And regardless of what they say about good things coming to an end, we say your drop dead gorgeous looks can be an exception to the rule. The vintage tips and tricks to carry you across the seasons as flawless and beautiful as you ever want to be are on page 30. Finally before I let you dig in, I have the pleasure of announcing a great addition to our crew of top notch guest columnists. From Millville, New Jersey, Dr. Lanre Babalola makes his debut in this issue. His compelling perspective on the problem of science in Africa is on page 9. Let us know if you agree with him. As always, our other regulars: Arts & Entertainment, Sports, Straightup Folasophical, Fashion, African Students, Wedding Bells, Immigration, and many more are included in this package; served, piping hot for your maximum enjoyment. See you next time.

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USAfrica Journal is now accepting articles for publication in its next issue. We welcome commentaries, cartoons, general news features, business/finance features, personality/celebrity interviews, sports features, profiles, fashion, lifestyle, health, arts, book, music and movie reviews, etc. If you can craft timeless and hundred percent original stories suitable for publication in a quality serious periodical catering to people of African descent in the United States and Diaspora, let’s see a sample of your work or a pitch. Unsolicited materials are welcome but we do not guarantee usage in any form or shape. Knowledge of AP style is a plus but not a must. We reserve the right to reject or edit submissions to conform to space, style, and accuracy standards. Send submissions as word document to: editor@usafricajournal.com

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COVER 2

Brook Yeshitila: Immobile, Yet Flying in Living Colors By Eldana Mengesha | USA

Brook Yeshitila lies on his back, supine and seemingly lifeless in his Addis Ababa, Ethiopia home. But beneath the rim of the bowler hat partially covering his forehead, you could see the glint in his eyes as he takes in his surrounding and locks gaze with the camera lens. Through those eyes, a somewhat inexplicable inner peace and vitality are evident. Yeshitila was born in 1982 in Ethiopia. At age 18, he was diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) disease, a rare progressive form of arthritis affecting the spine and large joints of the arms and legs. “That means for the past 14 years, I have been immobile, except for my arms” Yeshitila said. Still, his spirit soars above and beyond his physical limitations. Smiling, his face lights up and illuminates his eyes even more. A deeper look into those glinting eyes again and a whirlwind of creative energy, quite antithetical to his docile frame is revealed as his brilliant brain and mind weave intricate web of bright and colorful arts with shards of broken glasses; gypsum, cement, egg shells, barbed wire, electric lights, and fired bullet. Yeshitila may not look it, but he is a very busy man, constantly committing his thoughts and feelings on to his chosen canvas. In between his busy schedule, Yeshitila found time to talk to USAfrica Journal about his life and work. Yeshitila at work.

How did you get into Arts? When I was about seven years old, my mother went to Israel and brought back several gifts for the family. There were clothes, chocolates and many other things. While all the kids were going for the chocolates, I took the crayons. My parents were surprised that I didn’t pick chocolates like the other children. That was when my father started encouraging me by giving me gifts that I could use for arts. My interest for arts developed from there. l taught myself to express my perspectives and ideologies through sculptures, paintings and installation. What inspires you? I would say my physical condition is an inspiration to me. What I mean is I always try to deal with my physical state in my work. I work in different media that usually shows my way of life with respect to my state of being at the moment. Other than that, the

Yeshitila

Artwork by Yeshitila

beauty of nature; colorfulness of the world we live in inspires me most. Sometimes you use broken glasses for some of your works, is there any particular reason why you use this medium? Definitely yes. Generally, when glass breaks, it is simply thrown in the garbage regardless of how precious or worthless that glass was. It is over; that is the end. But I see it differently. With glue and broken pieces of glass, I try to create another life, or form with different features from the shattered glass. The glue stands for my thoughts and the broken glasses depict me and other handicapped people all over the world. Where do you see yourself and your arts in five years? In five years, I believe that I will be in a better position with my art works and my physical condition since I will be having another knee surgery soon.

VOL. 2, ISSUE 2 | 2014

In one of your interviews with the press, you spoke highly of your friends; how have they been of significance in your life? From the day that I took ill up till now, my friends have stayed with me. I never felt alone, they are always with me in everything. They are like my family. I wouldn’t have come this far without their help. They always come up with different ideas that can help me; they give me information that

COVER 2 broadens my knowledge about our country and the world at large. With their support, I don’t feel like I’m missing anything. Some people in similar condition as you would have given up a long time ago, what kept you going? When my illness happened I felt really bad. I didn’t know what to do. I Yeshitila flanked by his friends.

complained all the time. I even used to say God did this to me deliberately. Every morning when I woke up, I would say: “Oh God, please kill me.” After a while, things started to change. I started watching movies, reading psychological, inspirational, and biographical books. Then I started seeing life from a different angle even though I am still disabled.

“Everyone, either disabled or able bodied has a hidden potential that should be discovered. As Myles Munroe says; ‘in every seed, there is a tree, in every man, there is potential.’ God created everything with potential; you just have to find yours.” What advice do you have for other physically challenged people around the world? An able bodied person can become disabled in a fraction of seconds, so we need to be mentally prepared in case we find ourselves in such a situation. Take me as an example; I wasn’t like this until I turned 14 but now I may not be able to walk again for the rest of my life. But I got to a point where I convinced myself that I was born for a purpose and I need to contribute something worthwhile and positive to this world before I leave. So, I tried to find my potential and found it. Now I am living with my disability happily. Everyone, either disabled or able bodied has a hidden potential that should

be discovered. As Myles Munroe says; ‘‘in every seed, there is a tree, in every man, there is potential.’’ God created everything with potential; you just have to find yours.

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

EDITORIAL

In Philadelphia:

Victory For Immigrants Philadelphia’s Mayor Michael Nutter recently signed the executive order 1-14, limiting the scope of cooperation between law enforcements agencies in Philadelphia; especially the Philadelphia Police Department (PPD) and the Immigration and Custom Enforcement (ICE) agents.

pecifically, Philadelphia will no longer hold any person, including undocumented immigrants for ICE agents who generally start deportation process once an undocumented immigrant is handed over to them. Prior to the signing of this executive order, it did not matter whether you, an immigrant, had just assisted the PPD in a major drug bust; helped to apprehend and put behind bars a dangerous criminal; or you’ve just saved the city millions of dollars, the PPD could hold and hand you over to ICE at the agency’s request if you are an undocumented immigrant. Not anymore. Immigrants who otherwise would have cooperated with local law enforcement agents in their fight against crime but refrained from do-

VOL. 2, ISSUE 2 | 2014

ing so for fear of being handed over to immigration authorities, especially the dreaded ICE for deportation, need not fear anymore. Unless an undocumented immigrant is a convicted first or second degree felon, and a judicial warrant is produced by federal agents, PPD will no longer honor ICE’s civil immigration detainer request. By signing the executive order that ushered in this policy in the city and county of Philadelphia, Mayor Nutter moved Philadelphia into the ranks of a “growing number of jurisdictions, including New York City, Cook County, Illinois, Newark and the State of California” who have adopted policies of refusing ICE detainer requests when the individual in detention does not pose a serious risk to public safety. Ac-

cording to Nutter, it is expected that the executive order will remove undocumented immigrants’ fear that interacting and collaborating “with their government will end in a detainer for themselves or their loved ones.” Though critics are up in arms arguing the new policy will make Philadelphia less safe, we share Mayor Nutter’s position that the change in policy will not only support public safety but also help rebuild the trust between police and the immigrant community. While the city’s crime rate may be better than it was four years ago, there is much room for improvement. Philadelphia’s crime rate is still one of the highest in the country. It currently has a crime index of nine, meaning it is only safer than nine percent of the cities in the

United States, according to Neighborhood Scout, an online location-based data and mapping company. Like every other resident in the county, immigrants hear and see things; oftentimes, they may have information which the local law enforcement agents may find invaluable. Having a policy that will encourage them to share such information with the law enforcement agents without any fear whosoever is a good step in the right direction, and we applaud the city’s leadership for following through on this bold initiative. But the initiative needs not be restricted to Philadelphia. Now that Philadelphia has belled the cat, neighboring counties and states should do the same because as Mayor Nutter explains; “the executive order does not protect criminals from the criminal justice system. It simply protects innocent individuals from being punished when doing the right thing and cooperating with us to find and arrest real criminals.” The City of Philadelphia has again proven its preeminent position in the region with this new policy; it is time for her neighbors –Chester, Delaware, Bucks, and Montgomery counties – to do the same.

COMMENTARY

The Problem of Science in Africa By Lanre Babalola, DVM, PhD, DO | USA

Advances in science over the last hundred years or so are undoubtedly tremendous, and it is apparent that its products have dramatically transformed the human condition. It is however pitiful that the product of science - technology, medicine, modern agriculture, exploration of the universe, increased productivity - only relatively minimally rub on Africa. It is particularly unfortunate for African countries such as Nigeria that have the potential and real resources that are germane to scientific discovery and advancement and yet, are unable to contribute.

ducation in all its ramifications including its underlying philosophy, curriculum planning, implementation and dissemination is key to modern development. The national attitude of many of our nations in Africa is antithetic to any kind of meaningful education and, in particular, that of science. So also is our individual and cultural attitude. Science essentially thrives, and the attending discoveries and advancements occur to advance the human course and condition only, in the right conducive and permissive environment. At the crux of the scientific mind/reasoning is what I call the attitude of fearless curiosity and adventure. One must be able to challenge the orthodoxy. You cannot perform authentically meaningful science in an environment that stifles curiosity, promotes fear and perpetuates myths and magic of old times as the reality of today. That kind of society will continue to live in the past and except for the few amongst them, the overwhelming majority will continue to even barely exist in abject poverty. Ignorance and its attending repressive consequences will strongly take hold. Disease and ill-health will abound with minimal and inefficacious tools to combat them. Death, already well known to be a sure aftermath of life, will generally occur earlier and prematurely. In so doing, mystic, myth, magic, and believe in the spirits and demons or the long capable hands of a giver-taker of life persist, and we would “blame or thank” them accordingly all the more.

The environment of science is constantly, devastatingly being poisoned by the pervasive and dangerously fanatic and exploitative nature of religion in Africa. Let me point out that my analysis of religion and its effects in Africa and, on Africans is dramatically different from considerations of other peoples of say, Western Europe or the United States of America. To be more explicit here, I dare say that these other peoples have been able to tame and tailor their religious beliefs (albeit, to the detriment and death of many over the course of their fascinating history) to accommodate stupendous scientific inquiry. In Africa, in this day and age, religion remains an ever so subtle instrument of oppression. Under its pretentious canopy, our leaders - cleric and non-cleric alike - subjugate their followers, and then easily pilfer and plunder their supposedly collective resources. Superstition, no matter the basis of, and notwithstanding the origin of its existence - local, traditional, African, Hebrew, Arabic, Greco-Roman, Eastern, Western - should not be allowed to supersede reasoning. It breeds and perpetuates fear, and thereby kills curiosity, dangerously curtails the potential of otherwise scientific young minds, and sadly justifies ineptitude and corruption in the African society. In order to stem this terrible tide, we will ultimately need to influence and hopefully change politics, and possibly wholesome polity with the aim of influencing and focusing policies on reorganizing and funding education and

You cannot perform authentically meaningful science in an environment that stifles curiosity, promotes fear and perpetuates myths and magic of old times as the reality of today. That kind of society will continue to live in the past and except for the few amongst them, the overwhelming majority will continue to even barely exist in abject poverty.

In this day and age, religion remains an ever so subtle instrument of oppression. Under its pretentious canopy our leaders - cleric and noncleric alike - subjugate their followers, and then easily pilfer and plunder their supposedly collective resources. science/mathematics, and beginning to cultivate culture and attitude (individual and national) that are fundamentally critical to the development of a larger and autonomously expanding,

Jydiel

Dr. Babalola

clearly scientifically minded and conscious population. The scientific mind is skeptical; it is curious, never gullible, exploring, expansive, and fearlessly and constantly seeking the truth. Having said all these, let me then leave you with two quotes that I recently came across. First one was in a Carl Sagan’s book; “Ubi dubium ibi liberta; (where there is doubt there is liberty).” In an address to congress in 1790, George Washington stated; “There is nothing which can better deserve our patronage, than the promotion of science and literature. Knowledge is in every country the surest basis of public happiness.”

Photography by Jide Ademulegun

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AFRICAN STUDENTS

Accepted to ALL Ivy League Schools:

Ghanaian, 17, Heads To Yale

Enin scored 2,250 out of 2,400 on his SAT. He was also accepted at Brown, Columbia, Cornell, Dartmouth, Harvard, Princeton and the University of Pennsylvania.

n a move reminiscent of LeBron’s The Decision, the New York teen offered places at all eight Ivy League schools held a press conference recently Kwasi Enin to announce Yale was his choice. Seventeen-year-old Kwasi Enin announced his eaHis mother said her son is ‘proving himself to be gerly awaited decision at William Floyd High School on the right path.’ She and her husband have sought on Long Island and declared that Yale’s music proto instill “strong moral qualities” in Enin and his gram was what swayed his decision. sister since they were young, she said. ‘We are so The senior hit international headlines last month proud and so excited about all that he has achieved,’ when he revealed he had been accepted to every sinshe said. gle Ivy League college backed by his parents who are His father said he has always been strict about his Enin plans to study music and medicine and said both nurses and emigrated from Ghana to the United children’s academics. “I told him, ‘Look, your worst States in the 1980s. Kwasi Enin, a high school senior, of Yale, ‘I met people who were just like me - diverse grade in school should be a 95,’ he said. smiled after announcing he would attend Yale Uni- in both science and music - and they told me how He told The New York Post that much of his sucversity during a press conference at William Floyd manageable it is doing both.’ cess is a result of his hovering ‘helicopter parents’, The teen said he is looking forward to singing in High School in Mastic Beach, New York on April 30, Store Items includes: who both work as nurses after moving to America one of Yale’s acapella groups and playing in one of its 2014. from Ghana in 1980. mDifferent type ‘I’m very satisfied with TIE my offer, ’ he said Enin scored 2,250 out of 2,400 on his SAT. He orchestras. LACE, BROCADE, HEAD (Gele), WAX, ‘He’s an amazing kid. He’s very humble,’ his father, was also accepted at Brown, Columbia, Cornell, of Yale. ‘They’re very generous on their aid.’ At the newsSHOES, conference in the school gym, Enin Ebenezer Enin said. ‘He’s been trained to be a high JEWELRY, BAGS, AFRICAN Dartmouth, Harvard, Princeton and the University of Pennsylvania. His incredible feat beat the odds - thanked his parents and educators who helped him achiever right from when he was a kid. We have been More... way. ‘Withoutand their assistance, I would encouraging him to be an all-around student. So far, Harvard only accepted 5.9 percent of applicants in along theMOVIES during this round and Cornell, which typically ac- not be in this position,’ he said to NBC New York. he has proved himself.’ cepts more than the other seven schools, still only ‘I would not have had the initial drive to strive for excellence.’ took 14 percent. By Jame Nye | MailOnline

We pro Plan

FOCUS

Inside

ELIZADE UNIVERSITY

Chief Ade-Ojo’s love for sport is reflected in the varieties of sporting activities available at the University campus. In addition to the usual sports facilities, there are tennis and basketball courts on campus; and

a multimillion dollar golf club located off campus to meet the extracurricular needs of the university. Looking at these facilities and many others, it was obvious that Chief Ade Ojo’s vision was to create a

By Kayode Adewumi | USA

hen I visited Elizade University, IlaraMokin, Ondo state in Nigeria recently, my primary mission was to meet the founder, Chief Michael Ade-Ojo, a self-made business magnate with interests in many countries around the world. However, my eagerness to meet “Mr. Toyota,” as he is fondly called gave way to bewilderment when I arrived at the University campus and saw the sprawling environment dotted by gigantic buildings comprising the senate and administrative buildings, classrooms, laboratories, student hostels and the mansions housing the staff. The university boasts a learning environment replete with the requisite infrastructural facilities and teaching aids. The bulk of the university’s faculty staff was also said to have been recruited from Europe and the United States. The library, computer and medical centers with state of the art equipment and made available to staff and students alike are said to be some of the amenities attracting students to the school like magnet. 10

VOL. 2, ISSUE 2 | 2014

de Full Event Planning including:: (1) the words on the left are not aligned well on the product

ELIZADE UNIVERSITY continued on page 42

Coming Soon

Best Better

The Gets

With New Look!

Dear readers,

In line with our master plan when our flagship publication, USAfrica Journal made its debut about two years ago, the set time to raise the ante and move to the next level is gradually creeping up on us. Soon, we will be moving to phase two of our transition plan to a one hundred percent bigger and better online presence. As we get closer to this milestone, you will notice some changes in the magazine; the most conspicuous of which, will be the size. To bring our publication up to par with the prevailing standard in the industry, USAfrica Journal will be transitioning to a more compact design. Though the size of the magazine will change, be rest assured that the quality that you have come to associate with USAfrica Journal will not diminish in any way. The rich array of interesting, original, thought provoking stories and write-ups that set us miles apart from the competition will still be featured; our assemblage of intellectually sound columnists will also still be here with us. We even have more coming on board! We trust that our new look will endear us, even more to our readers; and to our cherished and valued advertisers, it will open up wider frontiers of extensive reach for your messages and products. Times may be changing, but here at USA Media LLC, we are poised to meet our bright future head on, by positioning the USAfrica Journal, the clear leader in this niche market, at the prime spot not only for its continued relevance in the industry, but also to serve you our readers and advertisers better. Stay with us, the fun is about to begin. Signed Management

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STRAIGHTUP FOLASOPHICAL!

She Escaped Death By Just Ten Minutes! By Dr. Fola Ojo | USA

This is a true story about my sister who lives in Abuja and how she escaped death by just ten minutes during the bombing incident in Nigeria on July 25. My sister and her husband are blessed by God, and in appreciation of what heaven has done for them, they strive as best as they can to reach out to those who need.

arly that fateful day, she was about stepping out to the shopping center to purchase some items for the home when one of her employees who had just lost his wife in Benue state came crying that he needed some money regarding the pressing family issue. The story was too emotional to ignore. She dipped in her purse and handed over 120,000 naira to this man; he prayed profusely. My sister felt good in her spirit because anytime she gives, even if it

is a tough time, she feels relieved and joyful. Then she headed for the shopping plaza, and parked near a corn-seller; purchased a handful of corn, not because she needed to, but according to her, she felt like she was blessing somebody. She hung around for a little while for about half-hour then drove away from the plaza. About ten minutes after she left, her phone rang. A call from a family member who knew she had just gone to the plaza

came in telling her that a bomb had just gone off at the plaza. She was shivering! Twenty-one people died in that bombing incident. She did not realize the weight of what the Lord had done until she went back to the spot after the blast. What she did not know was that all along while she was parked, the killers’ vehicle was parked next to her waiting for the right time to detonate the bomb. The time the murderers chose

When she was handing out the 120,00 Naira that morning to a man in pain, she did not know that she was actually paying a ransom for her life and family members that rode with her in the car.

Dr. Ojo

Dr.Ojo is the CEO of Gravitas Communications, and Senior Pastor of RCCG, (City of Praise), Hartford, Wisconsin. was the time my sister had driven away from the jaws of premature death; just ten minutes before death, dressed in a religious garment, came calling and claimed twenty-one lives including the woman that my sister had just bought a roasted corn from. When she was handing out the 120,00 Naira that morning to a man in pain, she did not know that she was actually paying a ransom for her life and family members that rode with her in the car.

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NEWS-AFRICA

UK Beckons At Zambia’s Future Leaders Do you have the potential to be a future leader and a desire to study in the UK? The British High Commission in Lusaka is inviting talented Zambians wishing to study in the UK to apply for the UK’s Chevening Scholarships Programme which opened in August this year for the academic year 2015-2016.

Chevening scholars

pproximately 1500 Chevening Awards will be offered worldwide in the 2015/16 academic year - triple the number the UK offered in 2014/15. This is a significant investment from the UK Government to develop the next generation of global leaders. Applications will close on 15 November 2014. The Acting British High Commissioner, Sean Melbourne said: “We are investing in Zambian future leaders as part of our partnership with Zambia. The Chevening Programme provides a unique opportunity for

ganizations, operate in over 100 countries worldwide. The Scholarships are prestigious awards aimed at extremely capable individuals who are motivated to pursue a career that will take them to a position of leadership within their own country or region. Awards are typically for a one-year Master’s degree, in any subject and at any UK university.

Yaoundé-Douala Highway Construction Gets A Boost

ouis Berger, a $1 billion global professional services corporation, recently signed a fiveyear project management contract financed by local funds for the construction of the first segment of the Yaoundé-Douala highway in Cameroon. The total construction value of the project is almost €7million. The road segment will connect Cameroon’s government and diplomatic hub in Yaoundé to the country’s economic center and deep water port in Douala. The current road between these cities is extremely congested and is one of the deadliest roads in the Central African region, characterized by its many curves, changes in road grade, poor

maintenance and heavy truck traffic, including logging semi-tractor trailers. The improvements will birth a straighter two-lane road motorway, safer and of better quality. “The new 236-kilometer highway will lead to reduced travel time and will hopefully have a positive impact on the international transportation because Cameroon is a key transit country for the landlocked countries of Central Africa,” Jean-Pierre Dupacq, head of Louis Berger’s operations in Africa said. Louis Berger has more than 50 years of experience in Africa and more than 20 years of experience working in Cameroon. The company’s work in the country includes

DIALOGUES IN LONDON

Source: UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office

Jean-Pierre Dupacq

Photo Credit: APO Photos

leaders of the future to build a global network of professional significance. The UK has a global reputation for excellence in the field of education and skills. It is a tradition of learning that we continue to share with the world, including Zambia. If you have a vision for Zambia, the desire to make it happen and you need extra knowledge to make an impact, come and convince us that you should be a Chevening Scholar.” The Scholarships, which are funded by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and partner or-

10 ongoing projects and more than 20 projects completed in the last twenty years. These projects included a broad range of services from institutional strengthening, capacity building and training of the central public authorities, feasibility studies, urban transport planning, regional transportation strategies and project management and construction supervision. Source: APO

Desmond Tutu Goes On Voyage

orld-renowned peace and human rights crusader Archbishop Desmond Tutu will bring an especially intimate perspective of South Africa – and the world – aboard Crystal Cruises’ March 13, 2015 voyage through Tutu’s African homeland. Via a complimentary presentation and interactive Q & A session, the Archbishop will share personal insights about South Africa’s history and topics like “Bridging the Chasm

between Black and White,” as well as speak to universal themes that can inspire all, such as the search for spiritual values in today’s world and the power of unity and goodness in business. The World Cruise segment sails from Perth to Cape Town, where Tutu is Archbishop Emeritus. “Our inquisitive guests are engaged travelers who will relish the rare opportunity to experience South Africa through the eyes of one of the country’s most precious sons...and

perhaps take some of his inspirational spirit home with them,” Bret Bullock, vice president of entertainment said. Source: Crystal Cruises

Archbishop Tutu

SOMALI DIASPORA

omalia faces major human resource gaps as it attempts to move forward and achieve the reconstruction and peace-building objectives set out in its Vision 2016 initiative. The Somali diaspora presents a unique reserve of experts with skills and professional experience combined with local knowledge of their country of origin. But mobilizing Somali diaspora resources to strengthen the institutional capacities of government agencies represents a challenge. The International Office of Migration’s (IOM) Migration for Development (MIDA) Somalia programme, implemented in collaboration with the Somali authorities, allows for skills transfers to take place through short-term assignments of diaspora professionals in Somalia and to date has placed over 300 experts. “Our mission is to contribute to the on-going process of stabilization and state-building in Somalia by developing the capacities of key government institutions through the mobilization of Somali diaspora resources,” programme manager Frantz Celestin said. The UK is host to one of the largest and longest established Somali communities in Europe, with an estimated population of around 90,000. To inform the community about the programme and opportunities to participate, the IOM office in the UK recently organized an outreach event, in collaboration with the Worldwide Somali Student and Professionals (WSSP). Source: International Office of Migration (IOM)

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

WEDDING BELLS

Moyin, Jola: Two Heartbeats In Sync By John Kay | USA

here are friends, and there are friends. Some lift you up, some pull you down. And there are some, who knowingly or unknowingly set you up for a major milestone in life. If you are in doubt, ask Moyin and Jola how they met and they’ll both chorus: “Through a friend!” Even when the intent of the friend was purely to help a “sister” get an internship at the groom, Jola’s company, this lovey dovey duo ended up in each other’s arms anyway. Que, Sera Sera (Whatever Will Be Will Be). Well, not without persistence on Jola’s part though. After two years of warding off his advances, the bride, Moyin eventually agreed to a date with Jola. One thing led to another and they ended up hugging (just hugs!) on their first date. Jola recalled the defining moment: “Whilst I held her, I couldn’t hear her

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heartbeat or maybe I couldn’t hear mine. I heard only one heart beating. Our hearts were beating in sync. I didn’t tell her anything though, but that marked a turning point in my life.” Two years and two days after The Hug; Jola, assisted by friends (again) to get an unsuspecting Moyin to a planned rendezvous, went on one knee and popped the question. “I said yes!” Moyin recalled. “I began to cry as he slipped the ring on my finger. I buried my face in his chest whilst I hugged him. My dream became reality! I almost did not sleep that night as I kept staring at the ring. It was just a piece of metal, but it made my life complete.” Late last year, Moyin and Jola made it official in Lagos, Nigeria with a traditional and white wedding ceremony witnessed by family, friends, and wellwishers.

Photo Credits: Jydiel Photography

WEDDING BELLS

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

Faith-FULL

Labor: The Prerequisite for Reward By Pastor Timothy Babatunde | USA

The Bible records in the book of creation that God created the Heavens and the Earth (Genesis 1). The Hebrew word for Heavens is “Shamayin.”

t is in plural form, meaning “heights,” “elevations.” It is also inferred as firmament or Earth’s atmosphere (Source: www.letusreason. org). This inference is evident in Psalm 8:3. If the firmament is the work of His hands, according to the scripture, it knocks out the notion of the Big Bang Theory. Creation is God Almighty at work. The Bible speaks so much about God at work. According to the same Scriptures, if we were created in His own image, we possess the same character traits and abilities as God. In effect, we can create like God on another level. It will be nice to know that work came before the fall of man in the Garden of Eden. Hence, work is essential and has strategic and vital position

in the unfolding of God’s plan for the earth and the Church. Much has been said that work (or labor) came as the consequence of the Fall. In reality, work is integral to God’s ultimate plan. There is no excuse for not working. God, before the Fall, employed Adam to care for the Garden; preserve, tend, make it pleasantly appealing, and also name all the animals. Observe closely that Man was sinless at that time. Thus work has a transforming quality, not only to the environment that we find ourselves in, but also in our lives as we engage those divine abilities in us. When Jesus left the earth, He gave gifts to the Church (divine abilities) to enable us carry out His mandate to do the work of the ministry – the work of

CHURCH LISTINGS

Glorious Morning Star Cherubim and Seraphim Church 289 Saratoga Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11233

United Ghanaian Community Church 7501 Oak Lane Road Cheltenham, PA 19012 215-635-4799

CAC, House of Praise 4909 Edmonston Road Hyattsville, MD 20781 301-864-4788

PENNSYLVANIA CAC of PA, Mt. of Redemption 5200 Paschall Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19143 215-724-5711

United People Church Intl. 307 N. Bridge Street Suite 207 Elkton, MD 21921 443-433-6252

CAC Philadelphia 5800-02 Baltimore Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19143 215-921-6703

TEXAS RCCG, Household of Faith 5001 New York Avenue Arlington, TX 76018 817-461-8857/817-4614310

NEW JERSEY MFM, Jesus House 409 S. 18th Street Newark, NJ 07103 973-220-0007/862-902-6372

RCCG, Living Spring Center 5801 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19139 215-474-5800

Glorious Light Christian Ministries 104 E Broad Street Paulsboro, NJ 08066 856-224-4925

RCCG, Living Spring Intern’l Center 2123 N. 1st Avenue, Whitehall, PA 18052 610-264-3790

NEW YORK CAC, Mt. Pleasant of USA 1132 East Tremont Avenue Bronx, NY 10460 718-239-3512

RCCG, Living Spring Center 919 North Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19123 215-765-8170

CAC 1st In The Americas 622 Cortelyou Road Brooklyn, NY 11218 718-284-7479

Rehoboth Harvest Ministries 931 Hamilton Street, 2nd Floor Allentown, PA 18101

CONNECTICUT Winners Chapel International 76 Pane Road Newington, CT 06111 860-878-6855 DELAWARE RCCG Abundant Life Center 61 Christiana Road Newcastle, DE 19720 302-561-6008 RCCG, Eagles Wings Chapel 700 Forest Street Dover, DE 19904 302-480-2808 GEORGIA Church of Grace Ministries 6599 Allred Court Riverdale, GA 30296 ILLINOIS Christ Healing Evangelical Church (Chapel of Praise) 15821 Greenwood Road South Holland, IL 60473 RCCG (Jesus House) 4332 N. Kedzie Avenue Chicago, IL 60618 Berhane Wongel Ethiopian Church 6200 N. Artesian Avenue Chicago, IL 60659

MARYLAND MFM 5506 Church Road Bowie, MD 20772

CAC (WOSEM) 611 Williams Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11208

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CAC, Mercy Field 9621 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77074 713-541-4323/713-7059078 Dominion International Center 14030 Beechnut Street Houston, TX 77083 281-293-9997 WASHINGTON DC CAC (WOSEM) 4408 Georgia Avenue Washington DC 20011 202-723-2086 RCCG, New Wine Assembly 1515 Kenilworth Avenue Washington DC 20019 202-398-2211 WISCONSIN RCCG, City of Praise 5112 North 37th Street Milwaukee, WI 53209 414-465-0000

See more listings at www.usafricajournal.com

the Kingdom. He left the Church with talents, and not for us to brag about what we have and how massive our church is; not to be just Christians in name, but in our deeds also. When Christ returns, he will not come back with talents, but with rewards for the talents and gifts applied to good use for the Kingdom. Wherefore he saith, when he ascended up on high, He led captivity, and gave gifts unto men” -Ephesians 4:8 (King James Version). For it is just like a man about to go on a journey, who called his own slaves, and entrusted his possessions to them. To one, he gave five talents, to another, two, and to another, one; each according to his own ability; and

he went on his journey. – Matthew 25:14-15 (New American Standard Bible) Now there Pastor Tim are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are varieties of ministries, and the same Lord. There are varieties of effects, but the same God who works all things in all persons. But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. 1 Corinthians 12: 4-7 (New American Standard Bible) Gifts and talents are given for us to occupy till He comes. The fact that we do have these gifts is a function of grace. These gifts, talents and abilities are vehicles through which we strive for the reward. Pastor Tim is the founder of Christ Temple World Outreach Ministry, Darby Pennsylvania. Excerpt from REWARD – A Biblical Perspective by Pastor Timothy Babatunde is published with the permission of the author.

Christ Apostolic Church of Pennsylvania (Mount of Redemption)

5200 Paschall Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19143 Mail: P. O. Box 2294, Upper Darby, PA 19082 Phone/Fax: 215-724-5711 Email: cacpenn@aol.com Website: www.cacpenn.com Facebook: cacpenn

Come worship with us Bible Study 7:00pm – 9:00pm, Wednesday Prayer Warriors 4:00pm – 6:00pm, Friday Night Vigil 12:00am – 3:00am, Friday Holy Ghost 12:00 am – 3:00am, Last Friday of the month Choir Practice 6:00pm – 8:00pm, Saturday Sunday School 10:00am – 11:00am, Sunday Worship Service 11:00am – 1:30pm, Sunday Office Hours 10:00am – 2:00pm, Monday – Friday Prayerline

10:00pm – 11:00pm, Tuesday Dial 712-432-3900, Access Code 335192#

Pastor C. O. Ogunleye Associate Pastor

Pastor E. O. Odeyale (DS) Pastor-in-Charge Pastor S. A. Oyeleke Chairman, U.S.A. EDCC

Pastor M. O. Ajayi Associate Pastor

MEMORIAM

Farewell Mommy B By Tunde Kolawole | USA

“To The Glory Of God:” Even in death, her favorite phrase echoed and reverberated in our minds as we committed the remains of our mother in the Lord, Reverend Mrs. Oluyemisi Babajide (popularly known as Mommy B) to mother earth on May 24, 2014 in New Jersey following her demise on May 14, 2014.

1958–2014

ike everyone else privileged to know her closely as we did, we shed tears; we asked questions; we wondered and pondered upon why, but the only answer audible to minds granted the grace to discern the things of the spirit was: “It was time!” King Solomon pretty much beat that into our psyche in Ecclesiastes when he wrote: “To everything, there is a season: A time to be born; and a time to die.” So what matters then to a Christian is not so much what we perceive as the beginning or the end but what happens in-between and how the events between point A and B facilitate the attainment of the ultimate prize at the feet of our Lord Jesus Christ. Regarding Rev. Babajide, her husband, Mr. Elijah Akinola Babajide echoed our sentiments and conviction that Mommy B had indeed run a good race worthy of the promised crown of life. The teeming souls she won for Christ and her exploits – to the glory of God – in the vineyard of the Lord attest to her calling as a prophetess and minister of the living God. She was a willing instrument in the hands of God, who shared her time, resources, self, family and her many spiritual gifts with thousands of people around the world. As heavy and achy as our hearts may still be, we take solace in Apostle Paul’s admonition that we should not be ignorant “concerning those who are asleep,” lest we “grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep” (1 Thessalonians, 4:13). Therein lies the strength with which we stand firm upon the rock that is our Lord Jesus Christ and proclaim emphatically that “it is well.” So at this point, we, numbered among whom this great woman of God touched their lives positively, come not to mourn the passing of Mommy B; we come, with a heart full of praise and thanks, to give glory to God Almighty for her life well spent in the service of the Lord.

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

HEALTH

Back To School:

Kids Menu Healthy? Go Beyond Peanut Butter

Still sticking to peanut butter sandwiches for school lunches? They’re a brown bagger’s favorite, but encourage your child to try other options. Some children will refuse any changes to their lunch routine and that’s OK—as long as what you’ve been sending with them is nourishing. Every week or so, though, parents should try to slip in something different. A variety of foods gives children a variety of nutrients and expands their palates.

Get Kids Involved

If your child is a picky eater; try getting him or her involved in grocery shopping and lunch planning. Getting

a look at all the different kinds of fruit might encourage your youngster to try something new. Make sure lunches include protein, such as meat, cheese or nuts, and lean heavily on whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Keep sweets and fats to a minimum. Purchase foods that are easy to eat, such as baby carrots, string cheese, or dry roasted nuts.

Make Healthy Swaps

Here are some more ideas to chew on: • Enliven a meat and cheese sandwich with baby spinach. • Try tortilla wraps, bagels, pita bread, whole-wheat crackers, or bread sticks. • Consider including hummus with

your child’s favorite veggies for dipping. • Substitute fresh berries for apples or bananas. • Offer pretzels or popcorn instead of potato chips. • Trade sugary drinks for low-fat milk or water.

Make Fast Food a Healthy Choice Fast food has a reputation for being unhealthy — and with good reason. Much of it is loaded with calories, fat and salt. But you can make healthy choices when you eat fast food. You just need to know what to look for. Here are a few ways to make healthier choices the next time you’re eating out.

Have a plain burger. Burgers are the ultimate fast food. They may not be the healthiest option, but you don’t have to avoid them completely. Choose a single patty and skip extras like cheese and bacon. Ask for extra lettuce and tomato instead.

Watch your sides. It’s tempting to order a side of fries or onion rings with your meal. Skip these high-fat options and choose a side salad or fruit instead. Or, order a small side of fries and share it.

Choose grilled or broiled over fried. Look for grilled or broiled chicken or fish on sandwiches, wraps or salads. These options are much healthier than fried foods. Order lean meats: When ordering sandwiches, choose lean turkey, ham or chicken instead of meatballs or other fatty options. And ask for a whole-wheat bun to add extra fiber to your meal.

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Think small. Many fast food places offer larger sizes for just a little more money. While these options may seem good for your wallet, they’re not so good for your waistline. They add extra calories, fat, sugar and salt. When ordering, stick with regular or junior-size portions.

Choose drinks without sugar. A regular soda adds 280 extra calories to your meal. Choose water, diet soda, or fat-free milk instead. Choose salads carefully. Salads can be a healthy option, but be careful. A salad topped with croutons, bacon bits, meat and regular dressing can have more calories and fat than a large burger. Choose a salad that contains mostly vegetables, and ask for lowcalorie dressing on the side instead of served on top. That way you can dip and only use as much dressing as you need.

• To keep foods like chicken salad cool, freeze a carton of milk or juice to include in the lunch. • Always consult your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional before changing your daily activity, diet, or adding a supplement. Check your condiments. You may not think about what goes on your sandwich or other fast food, but mayonnaise and other sauces add calories and fat. Add flavor with salsa or mustard, and avoid sour cream and special sauces.

Look for nutrition information. Many fast food companies have nutrition information online, or you can ask for it when you get to the counter. Some even highlight healthier choices right on their menus. You can also use online tools to help you make healthy choices.

Source: Rite Aid Wellness

1601 North Second Street, Suite C-2, Millville, NJ 08332 • Phone: 856-765-3138 Fax: 856-765-3147 • www.alafiaobgyn.com G. Lanre Babalola—PhD, DO, FACOG Board Certified by The American Board of OB-GYN

OBSTETRICS

GYNECOLOGY

Pregnancy (Low/High Risk) Delivery (At Elmer and Vinland, NJ) All Modes of Delivery: * Vaginal * C-Section * Trial of Labor after C-Section (TOLAC)

* Infertility *Hormonal Management *Sexual Dysfunction * Tubal Ligation/Occlusion/Reversal * Contraception * Surgery (In Office, Surgical Centers and Hospital) * In Office Procedures (Ultrasound, Colposcopy, Leep, Cryosurgery, Removal of External Lesions, IUD Insertion/Removal, Non-stress Testing In Pregnancy)

* Vaginal Birth after C-Section (VBAC)

WOMEN'S HEALTHCARE * Cancer Screening and Treatment * Urinary Incontinence * Osteoporosis/ Menopause * General Female Health Maintenance (Obesity, Blood Pressure, Diabetes, Pap, Infections)

We Accept Most Insurances and Self Pay

ADVERTORIAL

You’ve Seen The Rest, Taste The Best At

Faaji! By Sadiat Makuna | USA

L-R: Adebola, Alhaja Adunola and Morayo

Residents of Philadelphia and its suburbs asked for it; now it’s here. Fresh and smoking hot from New York, a high brow African restaurant is now in the neighborhood.

o move over Chinese restaurants, sweep aside Italian bistros, say bye to the burger joints; a new sheriff, as far as African cuisine is concerned, is in town. If your taste buds crave good African food, head over to 24 N. Lansdowne Avenue, Lansdowne, Pennsylvania; Faaji Restaurant is serving delicious dishes seven days a week! Owned and managed by the trio of Alhaja Adunola, Adebola and Morayo, Faaji is billed as “the #1 authentic African Restaurant in Delaware Valley.” We caught up with the ladies recently to find out what’s cooking. “At Faaji, we don’t just serve the best quality African food, we serve it in a fun and relaxing atmosphere,” Alhaja Adunola said. “Our location, the restaurant’s interior décor and our live music on Fridays and Saturdays are geared towards enhancing your dining experience at Faaji.” According to Adebola, Faaji is a restaurant that you can bring friends, signifi-

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cant ot he rs or your business associates. “The variety of food on our breakfast, lunch and dinner menu is astounding. Frankly speaking, it is unlikely you’ll find that many choices in other restaurants around here,” she said. “I just want to add that we realize that tastes and preferences may be different,” Morayo said. “At Faaji, we offer our customers vegetarian options. Now, how many African restaurants do that?” They’ve said it all. All you have to do is check them out!

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Davido Headlines

Davido

ACANA Festival

By George Igbakhiare | USA

Early this month, the African Cultural Alliance of North America (ACANA) continued its tradition of summer fun and excitement in Philadelphia with the African Festival, this year honoring Nelson Mandela. By the time the festival’s headliner, Nigeria’s Davido (of the Skelewu fame) got on stage to bring down the house, not even the light rain could dampen the spirt of the audience. From one song to the other, Davido pranced about the stage, sang, danced, wagged his tongue, grabbed his crotch; and even “snatched” a baby from a fan, all to the delight of his ecstatic fans who kept asking for more. Like an award winning entertainer that he is, Davido obliged, but only gave the panting audience just enough to sustain their high till about the same time next year when ACANA brings another slamming musical spectacle to The Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing, Philadelphia.

Photo Credits: USAfrica Journal Photos

ow in its seventh consecutive year as part of PECO Multicultural Summer Festival Series, the magic was still evident in Philadelphia’s ultimate open air concert showcasing the multicultural attributes of the city of brotherly love. With music, dance and tasty (and sometimes spicy) African food to sample and savor, it was not surprising that the crowd defied the elements to partake in the festivities of this year’s African Festival which featured sterling performances by artists from Africa and across the diaspora. These included Liberia’s Moses Swaray, Rafiya, Rotimi & de afrophonic crew, and many others.

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT MUSIC

Let the Children Come

ans of Benjamin Ajayi, a.k.a. BjBinja, can finally heave a sigh of relief. The high energy beat and versatile blends of multifarious music styles that endeared BJBinja to his fans’ hearts is now available to go and be enjoyed anytime they like! Bjbinja released his much-awaited debut CD, He Knows in Philadelphia recently with a launch held at the Banquet Hall of Christ Apostolic Church of Pennsylvania. The multi-track CD featuring a mix of up-tempo and highlife gospel tunes has tracks such as Iyin Ogo, Spiritual Gyration, He Knows and Ase.

T Adeshile Blows Tunes of Praise

rom London, England, we heard the sweet soothing sound of sax, courtesy of Adeshile. News came across that ace saxophonist, Peter Adeshile has released a multi-track CD reportedly ruling the airwaves in Queen’s country. Sources said the CD, Tunes Of Praise which has already been launched in London will be crossing the Atlantic soon for an exclusive U.S. launch. Sources close to Adeshile said this would afford his growing fanbase in the States the opportunity to see his live performance. Tracks in Tunes Of Praise include Alleluyah, Dide Oluwa, Awesome God, Ayomide, Ghanaian Gospel Praise and Oh Worship The King.

EEWAI-Gold Media has announced its strategic partnership with The Drammeh Institute, to bring attention to the African child through the creation of an international choir of African migrant youth. Named Let the Children Come Choir, (LTCC Choir), the group is the brainchild of Tope Idowu, the leading partner and owner of TEEWAIGold Media. In a press release issued recently in New York, Idowu said the “project will prove how voices from within can have an impact that is sustainable.” According to him, the project is positioned to generate considerable funding streams through its multimedia platform which includes African television markets. The beneficiaries, he said, will be African NGO’s working in the interest of orphaned children and those facing life challenges. “We are very excited about this partnership.” said Iman Drammeh Nur, director of The Drammeh In-

stitute, an NGO with special consultative status to the United Nations. “Our hope is to create strong networks that propel the development of additional projects.” The partnership which is said to have received encouraging reactions from the international community has called for auditions for youths between the ages of eight and 13 in New York. “We’re building something for the future, not just for now,” Idowu said. Drammeh, left and Idowu

Photo Credit: TGM

He Knows – Bjbinja

MOVIE

Lasode Builds Film Village, Goes After Stolen Treasures!

ixteen years after Obafemi Lasode unleashed Sango, Yoruba’s fire-breathing god of thunder on the movie going public in Nigeria and international venues, he is back again; this time, chasing after Africa’s Stolen Treasures! And the main action in this new film written by Lasode, happened at a brand new mini film village which he is promoting with this new proLasode, center, crew and cast members on location.

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duction. Built on a wide expanse of virgin land at Abijo, Lekki Lagos, Lasode is banking on the village to become a tourists’ attraction that will attract film enthusiasts around the world and generate foreign exchange income for investors. According to Lasode, Stolen Treasure, a production of Afrika ‘n Vogue Communications, is a tale about the search for stolen African artifacts hidden by unscrupulous Europeans fleeing from the wrath of African natives. However, a map of the treasures’ location drawn by these Europeans with the hope of returning to cart away the treasures resurfaces at an auction in Lisbon, Portugal five centuries later. And the hunt which pitches four different parties, each equally passionate about getting the treasures, against one another in the search of the treasure trove begins.

Afrika ‘n Vogue Film Village Photo Credits: ANV

By Esther Olatunde | USA

“First of all, we want to use this movie to highlight and promote our new film village where Stolen Treasures was shot,” Lasode said. “It is important that we let people know that a film village such as this is right here in Nigeria and available for use by people in the film industry. Apart from that, with Stolen Treasures, we also want to put across the message that Africans should protect and preserve their cultures, artworks and artifacts.” Lasode said Africans need to be educated about the importance of

valuing and protecting those precious cultural legacies. According to him, Africans can create this awareness by stressing the importance and role of museums; using schools, the mass and social media; museum-to-school programs and “in fact any other tool necessary and appropriate” to disseminate this important message. “Afrika ‘n Vogue is contributing to this dialogue with Stolen Treasures,” Lasode said. The movie which is now in postproduction stage features popular Nigerian actors such as Larry Williams (MFR), Clarion Chukwurah (AMAA Award winner 2014), Belinda Effah (AMAA Award winner, 2012). Prince Jide Kosoko, Gbenga Richards, Femi Robinson, Chief Eddie Ughboma (OON), Funmi Tijani, Paul Obazele, Alariwo of Africa, and Phillipe Dupriez from Belgium.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Wole Soyinka:

80 Years Of Genius, Prophetic Outrage The Birth Of A Genius I want to thank God for sending this great son of Africa to this great country called, Nigeria. Whatever may be Wole Soyinkaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s claims as to how he got to be where he is, whether he believes God has brought him here or not, whether he wishes to celebrate or attribute his profound contributions to chance, in-

What we now need is new generations of Nigerian artists who will make Life imitate Art. By doing this, they can hold before us a world that is not here, but is possible. They can offer us a vision of a society that is not here yet but one to which we can align our politics, religion and culture as a people.

telligence, or Ifa divination, I am far from being concerned. All I know is that I am personally eternally grateful to God that he was born here and not there. Our African cultures are not favorably disposed to the notion of protest. Obedience and compliance have always been presented as noble ideals required for forging a collective sense of family and community. At meetings, the young are supposed to be seen and not heard. Younger people can often be scolded for daring to speak while elders are speaking. Consequently, obeisance has been built into the thread of African life. A parent who concedes to a young person the right to contribute to public discussion in the presence of elders would often be considered to be encouraging irresponsibility and disobedience. I make this point merely to underscore the fact that we need to thank the parents of our celebrant for coping with this young man whose troubles started too early in his life. Sending this young man to the University of Leeds was a risk that only a man of the faith of his parents could have undertaken. Not unexpectedly, Leeds proved to be both a laboratory for his

Photo Credit: npr.org

By Matthew Hassan Kukah | Nigeria

Soyinka

WOLE SOYINKA continued on page 42

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

ADVERTORIAL

Bjbinja Breaks Out!

Photo Credits: USAfrica Journal Photos

Photo Credit: Pathfinder Photos

When Benjamin Ajayi, a.k.a. BjBinja launched his debut multi-track CD in Philadelphia recently, the dance floor of Banquet Hall of Christ Apostolic Church of Pennsylvania venue of the event lit up. Guests from across the Delaware Valley area had the unique opportunity to see and hear what makes the resilient gospel music artiste tick. With music from his new CD, He Knows and bits and pieces of gospel dance hall favorites, Bjbinja took the audience through a sweat inducing spiritual gyration. If only the dance floor could talk! Well it couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t; but here to its rescue, are concrete evidences, in case anyone needs them - of what occurred when Bjbinjaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s music hit the core.

VOL. 2, ISSUE 2 | 2014

Arik Air, Effortlessly Connecting New York and West Africa

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FASHION

S t r ic tl y For The B o ld

A nd Th e Be a u t if u l

VOL. 2, ISSUE 2 | 2014

Photo Credits: Michael Mba - AFWL 2013

Design: Metisse

Design: Alabi Fashion

Design: Eldima Fashion

Design: Afrolucious

Design: Metisse

re you hot? Or you just want to feel the soothing kiss of summer breeze on your skin, but you wonder if you really can? Well, we bring you good tidings: Yes, you can. Whether you are at the beach, heading for work or taking a leisurely stroll down the street; strip the layers off and let your skin breathe as it soaks in the sunlight. Whichever style catches your fancy, go on, and get it on baby. Step off the ledge and proclaim:â&#x20AC;? I am bold and beautiful!â&#x20AC;?

Designs: Africa Fashion Today and Giberky

Photo Credits: Michael Mba - AFWL 2013

Photo Credit: Nia Rose - AFWL 2013

FASHION

How do you want it?

Design: Arachnid-Creations Photo Credits: Nia Rose â&#x20AC;&#x201C; AFWL 2013

hatever the day brings â&#x20AC;&#x201C; weather wise, you can take it all in your strides with this three-piece by Arachnid Creations. Start the day off fully decked, yet super appropriate for the season but you can refuse to be at the mercy of a shifty weather with this ingenious design. If the day heats up, simply step off some layers and walk off into the sunset like a stylistic fashionista that you are.

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FASHION

Culture: They Have It, Let Them Flaunt It!

Photo Credits: USAfrica Journal Photos

ummer may be winding down but it’s not too late to deck the kids in traditional African getups. With varied styles and fabrics out there to experiment with, you shouldn’t be breaking any sweat (even in this hot season) connecting them with their cultural heritage. African print (a.k.a Ankara), as always, will always come in handy. So will a blend of Africa’s royal fabric, aso oke and lace tops. Whether as a two-piece iro and buba, with a classic gele (head gear) to complete the regal look, or a one piece gown cut, the kids’ elegance and style sense will shine through either way.

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

BEAUTY

Essentials Of A Flawless Face W hen top makeup artists around the world were asked what the three essentials for a makeup artist finish were, their answers were surprisingly similar: “An excellent foundation primer, a great foundation, paired with a matching powder is the perfect trio for a flawless face.” Now that you know, that means you can achieve the flawless look of your dreams right in the comfort of your own home without paying through your nose. For complete coverage of dark circles, follow your foundation with Corrective Concealer. Not the other way around! Who knew? Then, once you’ve applied concealer to dark under-eye circles, follow up with Oil Blotting Powder to help it last longer. Use a slightly darker shade of concealer to make puffy eyes disappear. Darker colors recede, which means bags look less pronounced. To correct eye makeup mistakes or sharpen a cat eye, dip a cotton swab in One Step Cleanser by Color Me Beautiful and erase the offending makeup. Here are other tips; also courtesy Flori Roberts.

Tips for Tired Eyes The skin around your eyes is thin and fragile, and if it’s dehydrated, fine lines and wrinkles will be exaggerated. Using a highly effective moisturizing eye cream morning and night will assure a significant improvement almost immediately.

Tricks For Astonishing Eyes • Apply Corrective Concealer to the eyelids as a primer before eye shadow to give it staying power and to intensify the color. • Instead of swiping on eye shadow, dab the color into your eyelid with a sponge brush or finger. This will give your lids a deeper, more pigmented look. • After you’ve applied your eye makeup, dab dots of highlighter along the brow bone and around your eye and blend in to brighten the whole area.

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Tricks For Beautiful Brows • If you want a more defined eyebrow, use a stencil to help shape them. Check out Color Me Beautiful Mistake Proof Brow Kit. Thin brows make you look older, so don’t be afraid to fake a fuller look. • When plucking eyebrows, be sure to pluck in the direction of the hair. Otherwise, you could end up with an ingrown hair. • Remember brows are sisters, not twins, so no amount of plucking will ever make them identical.

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COVER 1

AFRICANS: Hollywood In Their Hands

By Tunde Kolawole | USA

From Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Sierra Leone and South Africa; Africans from the continent and in the Diaspora are rising and shinning in the stiffly competitive landscape of Hollywood. While their stars may not yet be ubiquitous on Hollywood’s walk of fame, their ranks are swelling. Featured in supporting and lead roles hitherto unavailable to actors of color, especially those of their ilk, the African actors in the Diaspora are shattering stereotypes and defying expectations with award winning and critically acclaimed performances across various genres of movies rolling off the mills in tinseltown.

CHARLIZE THERON

es. She’s African, and a proud one at that. “I’ve always been proud to be a South African,” Charlize Theron said in a press interview, “and I’ve always been very honest with people about that.” Born in Benoni, South Africa in 1975, Theron started out as a fashion model, but later had her eyes set on becoming a ballet dancer. However, a knee injury crushed her dream of pirouetting her way into wide acclaim. Stardom awaited her elsewhere. Theron relocated to Los Angeles at age 18 and “got discovered” by an agent who saw her practically flipped her lid at a LA bank because the bank teller refused to cash a $500 out-of-state check for her. After a few relatively insignificant roles in low budget movies, Theron found fame with roles in movies such as 2 Days in the Valley, Mighty Joe Young, The Devil’s Advocate and The Cider House Rules.

CHARLIZE continued on page 42

Their names may not roll off the tongues of Hollywood execs, or even the average movie buff easily in this part of the world, but their black (and white) African faces are gracing the big screens in droves and raking in millions of dollars in box office ,DVD and Blu-ray sales. Some you know; some you probably don’t. To serve, hopefully as inspiration to the other African stars in the making, twinkling and working their way up to the spotlight, we present here a glimpse at some of those African Hollywood movie stars who in spite of challenges along their ways, have succeeded and are still flying the African flag high and bright on global stage.

ADEWALE AKINNUOYE-AGBAJE

f he wanted to, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje could have been a lawyer (he has a law degree from Kings College and a masters in law from the University of London); or an ambassador (considering he has a good working knowledge of French and speaks Yoruba, Swahili and Italian fluently); or a fashion model (which he was until he veered and charted his current path as a hunky, hot big screen actor). Just like Ejiofor, Akinnuoye-Agbaje was born in England to Nigerian parents. Unlike Ejiofor, he was raised by white foster parents in Tilbury, U.K. whom his birth parent gave him to when he was six weeks old. AkinnuoyeAgbaje’s childhood was, in his words, “tough and rough” – quite typical for African children in foster homes in 1960s England. Nevertheless, he overcame hardship, bouts of severe identity crisis and peer pressure to graduate from college with a law degree.

LUPITA NYONG’O

o we really need to say anything about this 31-year old Kenyan who mesmerized Hollywood with her talent, charisma and style? Well, in case you’re just landing on our planet, Lupita is the current it girl in town. Barely out of Yale School of Drama, she won an Oscar for her performance In 12 Years A Slave where she starred alongside Chiwetel Ejiofor. Lupita has since become the new definition for beauty, style and high fashion sense. Other than a small role in the thriller, Non Stop, starring Liam Neeson, not much is known of her next project post 12 Years A Slave, but this much we know: Hollywood has gone black – Africa black – and you know what they say about that. Looks like it’s going to take a while for it to turn back – if it ever does!

ADEWALE continued on page 42

Photo Credit: DFree Photo Credit: Jaguar PS 32

VOL. 2, ISSUE 2 | 2014

DAVID OYELOWO

avid Oyelowo, a classically trained stage actor, is clear about his mission with his craft. “What I want to do,” he said, “is constantly defy expectations.” No buts, no ifs. And thus far, Oyelowo is firmly set on the track he laid for himself. From the gritty demands of stage acting to the glitz of big Hollywood movies, Oyelowo is garnering accolades from peers, critics and movie buffs around the world for his performances. Born in England in 1976 to Nigerian parents, Oyelowo went back to Nigeria with his parents at age six. He returned to England seven years later with a passion for acting. He enrolled at the National Youth Music Theatre and later attended and graduated from the prestigious London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art in 1998. His stage credits include award winning performance in Henry VI (where he made history as the first black actor to play the lead role of a king in a Royal Shakespeare Company production); The God Botherers and The Suppliant. Oyelowo has also featured in a number of popular TV projects among which were Small Island, The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency, As You Like It and the popular British spy series, Spooks. Oyelowo hit the big screen with appearances in The Last King of Scotland (2006) alongside Forest Whitaker and Kerry Washington, Rise of the Planet Apes (2011), The Help (2011), Red Tails (2012), Lincoln (2012) and The Butler (2013) among many others. Oyelowo plays Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the upcoming film, Selma directed by Ava DuVernay.

Photo Credit: Helga Esteb

COVER 1 DJIMON HOUNSOU

n accomplished dancer, model and actor, Hounsou is a symbol of pride and inspiration to Africans in the Diaspora. He is arguably the Hollywood success story that best personifies the immigrants’ dream of moving from grass to grace in a foreign land. Born on April 1964 in Cotonou, Republic of Benin, Djimon Hounsou left Benin Republic for Paris, France with his elder brother at the age of 13 with eyes set on the glittery world of show business. With no formal education or any clearly defined skill sets to market in Paris, it didn’t take long before Hounsou became homeless and starvation drove him to scavenging for left overs in garbage cans. A chance meeting with a fashion photographer on the streets of Paris however changed his story. The photographer introduced him to a famous fashion designer who hired Hounsou as a model. Hounsou found his niche, strutting on the runways of Paris. Not too long afterwards, Hounsou relocated to the United States and began working his way up the ladder in the entertainment industry by featuring in music videos and TV shows like ER, Alias and Beverly Hills. His big break on the big screen was as Cinque, in Steven Spielberg’s Amistad (1997). In 2004, he was nominated for an Oscar in the Best Supporting Actor category for his performance in the film, In America and also in 2006 in the same category for Blood Diamond. He won the National Board of Photo Credit: s_bukley Review Award and Screen Actors Guild Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in Blood Diamond. Hounsou’s other notable film credits include Gladiator, Push, Forces Spéciales, a French commando film Baggage Claim and his most recent work, Marvel’s Guardian of the Galaxy (2014).

CHIWETEL EJIOFOR

s of this moment, Chiwetel Ejiofor sits atop the impressive list of actors of African origin making waves, not just in Hollywood but worldwide. In United Kingdom where he resides, Ejiofor is a major factor in the dramatic arts and film industry. Early this year, he won the Best Actor award at the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) for his outstanding performance as Solomon Northrup in the Academy Award winning film, 12 Years A Slave. Ejiofor was also nominated for an Oscar in the same category at this year’s Academy awards. Ejiofor was born in London, England, in 1977 to Nigerian parents. At age 11, during a visit to Nigeria, Ejiofor and his father were involved in a ghastly car accident. His father died; he survived, but with a scar vividly etched on his forehead up till today. On his return to England, he joined the National Youth Theatre, and started acting at age 13. He later enrolled at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts but barely three months into his studies at the Academy, he was cast as James Covey, Cinque’s interpreter in Spielberg’s Amistad. His hit list includes Dirty Pretty Things (2002), Red Dust (2004), Kinky Boots (2005), Serenity (2005), Children of Men (2006), Inside Man (2006), American Gangster (2007) Talk To Me (2007), Salt (2010), and Half of A Yellow Moon (2014). For his outstanding performances in these and many other movies showcasing his skills as a versatile thespian on stage, television Photo Credit: Matt Petit and the big screen, Ejiofor has earned several accolades and rec- / ©A.M.P.A.S. ognitions among which are five Golden Globe Awards, BAFTA Orange Rising Star Award, and Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actor. He is an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE).

IDRIS ELBA

ome call him DJ Big Dris; others prefer Big Driss the Londoner. Born Idrissa Akuna Elba in England to a Sierra Leonean father and a Ghanaian mother, Elba has his hands in many artistic ventures. He is a rapper, singer, producer and actor rolled into one imposing 6, 2’ frame. While he has achieved a considerable amount of success in all his vocations, Elba is widely known more as an actor than any of his other callings. From Hackney, through East Ham, London to Hollywood, Elba has come a long way from his first TV role as Charlie Carter, an African petty thief in Bramwell, a medical drama series in U.K. Memories of his days as a straggly youngster hustling day and night as a DJ, musician, actor and automobile tire repair person are now eclipsed by a new dawn in his thriving acting career. By dint of hard work and dedication to his craft, Elba now rubs shoulders and, acts in key roles alongside the best that Hollywood has to offer. Apart from Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom (2013), in which he played the lead character, Elba’s film credits include playing Monty in Tyler Perry’s Daddy’s Little Girls (2007), 28 Weeks Later (2007), American Gangster (2007), Legacy (2010), Takers (2010), Thor (2011), Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance (2012), and Pacific Rim (2013). He has been nominated for Golden Globe awards thrice. In Photo Credit: Helga IDRIS continued on page 42

Esteb

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

BUSINESS

Burkina Faso Bank of Africa Upgrades Communications Solution

kyVision Global Networks Ltd has announced the successful implementation of the first phase of its project with the Bank of Africa (BOA) Burkina Faso, the country’s second largest financial institution. The project included implementing a full communications solution through the SkyVision VPN service, connecting BOA headquarters in Ouagadougou to its branch offices throughout the country. “This project is an important win and an even more important milestone for SkyVision,” SkyVision CEO, Ori Watterman said. “We welcome the opportunity of a long term partnership with BOA and highly value our business relationship. We look forward to growing our mutual business and of-

fering our solutions to the entire BOA Group.” The combined solution included a Romantis UHP hub and SkyVision VPN, a VSAT-based communications solution that provides organizations with superior network performance and reliability. The advanced technology that drives SkyVision VPN provides customers with enhanced flexibility, enabling reliable control and system management across immense remote areas, such as those in Burkina Faso. Fully deployed and managed by SkyVision, SkyVision VPN is fast becoming one of Africa’s “solutions of choice” delivering superior connectivity at a minimum cost. Source: SkyVision Global Networks Ltd

Sierra Leone Gets Finance For Solar Project

ierra Leone Ministry of Finance and Economic Development has announced that Sierra Leone has won the first call for proposals for the prestigious International Renewable Energy Agency / Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (IRENA / ADFD) financing facility. Sierra Leone has since signed the 6MW Freetown Solar Park project which will target urban and western rural districts around the capital, Freetown. “…Pursuant to actualizing the vision of H.E. President Dr Ernest Bai Koroma, we wish on behalf of the Government of Sierra Leone to thank Mr. Siray Timbo, Special Envoy of H.E. President and Ambassador to the UAE; the Ministry of Energy; Mr. Bahige Annan, Consul

General of Sierra Leone in Dubai and Mr. Filip Matwin, General Manager of Advanced Science and Innovation Company (ASIC) LLC / OGI, for coordinating and putting together the winning bid. ASIC/ OGI will facilitate co-financing and management of the project in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy,” Dr Kaifala Marah, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Finance and Economic Development said. The USD 18 million clean energy project includes institutional and critical human resource arrangements for sustainable management of the facility. SOURCE: APO/Ministry of Finance and Economic Development, Republic of Sierra Leone

Tanzania Hosts Workshop On Regional Securities Laws

three-day regional workshop to domesticate the East African Community (EAC) Council of Ministers’ Directives on Securities Market in the regional bloc into national laws has concluded in

VOL. 2, ISSUE 2 | 2014

Arusha, Tanzania. The workshop was organized by the EAC Secretariat in collaboration with the World Bank, as

TANZANIA continued on page 42

IMMIGRATION

What You Should Know about the Proposed Immigration Reform Law (2) By Akeem Soboyede, Esq. | USA Shoboyede

In the first part of this piece, we examined many relevant segments of the Immigration Reform measure passed last year by the US Senate, but which the House of Representatives has refused to consider, thereby stalling the measure.

espite this (hopefully temporary) setback, the Border Security, Economic Opportunity and Immigration Modernization Act (2013), if it ever makes it into the statute books, will provide a unique opportunity for immigrants seeking work in the US. Yes, despite the seemingly high unemployment rate in this country, there are apparently many unfilled jobs in certain areas of the economy, especially in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) professions. The law seeks to address this problem. In this regard, the Act proposes a substantial increase in immigrant (i.e. EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, EB-5) and nonimmigrant (i.e. E, H, I, L, O, P, Q, R) employment-based visas, to allow more skilled immigrants enter the US in the future to work. In addition, the measure envisions the creation of a temporary worker program that will allow up to 200,000 persons to enter the US legally each year and take up jobs not being filled by American workers. Perhaps the most significant change will be to the present H1-B visa program, which principally includes foreign-born workers in a specialty occupation and a few other sub-classifications. The number of visas that can currently be issued in a year under that classification 36

VOL. 2, ISSUE 2 | 2014

is 65,000. This will rise to 110,000 under the proposed Immigration measure. It is expected that such visas will rise to as high as 180,000 in the future, based on a demand index. For those STEM degree holders under the H1-B program who also hold advanced degrees from institutions of higher learning in the US, the annual visa cap will increase to 25,000 from the present 20,000. Furthermore, the law will allow a 60-day transition period for H1-B visa holders to change jobs. A major segment of the proposed law had been the plan to allow spouses of H1-B visa holders to work; those spouses enter the US on what is called the H-4 visa. Many of such spouses often had lucrative careers in their countries of origin and put these on hold to join their wives or husbands in the US, where they could not seek nor receive employment in the US for as long as they held such visas. Thankfully, the fact that the comprehensive Immigration reform measure is now stalled in Congress does not mean that particular provision will not become law soon: last May, the Obama administration commenced a rulemaking initiative that is ultimately expected to lead to spouses of H1-B visa holders being able to seek and get employment in the US. The mea-

sure is expected to go into effect in 2015. While unveiling the proposed rules, the US Department of Homeland Security estimated that up to 97,000 H-4 spouses will apply for permission to work in the US the first year after the change is approved. To such H-4 spouses, â&#x20AC;&#x153;congratulationsâ&#x20AC;?. Akeem Soboyede, Esq. is the Owner of and Lead Attorney with the Akeem Soboyede Law Office, Eagan, Minnesota. Send questions or comments to akeem.soboyede@soboyedelaw.com

Disclaimer: This column is not to be construed as legal advice. It also does not, nor is it intended to, create an attorney-client relationship between the reader and the Akeem Soboyede Law Office, PLLC, or Akeem Soboyede, Esq. In addition, information in the column is neither promised nor guaranteed to be correct or complete and should not be construed as an indication of future outcomes. Please consult an experienced attorney for advice on any Immigration matter.

TECHNOLOGY

Bring it On!

Nigerian-American Medic Tells Abductors According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, an estimated 800,000 children are reported missing every year. Like every parent, guardian or care giver, Henry I. Balogun, Founder/ CEO of PrimeHangout, finds this not only discomfiting but also unacceptable.

ut instead of folding his arms or throwing up his hands in the air, Balogun is up in arms against abductors; his weapon of choice in this battle? Technology! Though a medical practitioner, Balogun who also has a background in information technology said in a press statement that he has developed the first technology to end this societal menace. Code named Safe and Sound, the “revolutionary” tech-

nology is scheduled for release to the general public in the fourth quarter of this year. Balogun said the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness is a God given right that should not be taken from anyone or infringed upon. “Your child or loved one truly deserves the right to go out; enjoy the goodness of God; see the wonders of the world and all that nature has to offer; realize their lifelong ambition

or desire and come home safe and sound,” he said. According to Balogun who is also the Chairman/CEO of MedNet Healthcare Systems, Inc., Safe and Sound will be a great ally in the quest to prevent abduction. He said regardless of how deep or sophisticated the network of the abductor may be, Safe and Sound’s network is deeper and more sophisticated. “Abduction of children or adults is real and highly heart-wrenching, emotionally and financially draining, and seriously disturbing each time it occurs,” he said. “So our goal is to make it impossible for any abductor to complete his or her evil intent and for a child to return home safely regardless of the time of day.” Balogun said Safe and Sound will enable “law enforcement agents as

well as others authorized and granted proper permission to monitor abduction of children anywhere it is occurring and perhaps participate in the attempt to stop it before it turns deadly.” - Patrick Obinna (with agency reports) Dr. Balogun

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

COMMUNITY CAMERA

AFAHO Honors Kaba, Others tions in the community. Honorees for this year included, Mr. Osagie Imasogie, Founder and Senior Managing Partner, Phoenix IP Ventures, and the Executive Chairman of Iroko Pharmaceuticals Inc. for his outstanding achievements in the fields of law, pharmaceuticals, business and the sciences among others. Also honored at the event was Ms. Tiguida Kaba, the founder of AFAHO, described as a tireless advocate for the underserved and vulnerable in the African and Caribbean communities; and Strawberry Mansion Health Center, honored for its “excellent work in serving the communities.” Kaba, third from left, and guests at the event.

Richards-Waritay and guest.

Photo Credit: Pathfinder Photos

Faces At He Knows CD Launch

VOL. 2, ISSUE 2 | 2014

Photo Credits: AFAHO

his past spring, African Family Health Organization (AFAHO) held its annual “Friend-Raiser” in Philadelphia. According to AFAHO’s executive director Oni Richards-Waritay, the “Friend-Raiser” is primarily an opportunity for the organization to make new friends, raise funds and create awareness to support AFAHO’s goal of empowering the region’s African and Caribbean immigrants and refugees in becoming fully integrated in their new communities. Highlights of this year’s event included the conferment of honors on deserving personalities and organiza-

CAC (Mount of Redemption) Holds Health Fair

Photo Credits: USAfrica Journal Photo

hrist Apostolic Church of Pennsylvania (Mount of Redemption) held its annual Health and Wellness Fair at the church’s multi-purpose hall in Philadelphia recently. Healthcare organizations and professionals that featured in this year’s fair included Resources for Human Development (RHD), You “Knead” A Massage LLC, Sista’s Daughters Inc., Chiropractors, State Farm Insurance, and Prudential Insurance agents. Services provided at the fair included free advice and information on various aspects of human health. Interested participants were also offered free massage, prostate, diabetes, cholesterol, blood pressure and HIV screening.

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

SPORTS

Jerome Boateng: The Ghanaian Who

Won The World Cup For Germany Boateng

By Alex Baker | USA

ing on the pitch. Capable of playing at right-back or center-back, Boateng is known for being good in the air and with both feet, as well as for being able to make devastating tackles, and play telling passes from the back. Boateng started all seven of Germany’s matches at the 2014 World Cup. And it could be argued that his defensive master-class in marking Cristiano Ronaldo out of Germany’s opening 4-0 win over Portugal laid the very foundation for Die Mannschaft’s success at the tournament. When Germany drew against brother Kevin-Prince’s Ghanaian side (it was

the second time the two had faced off in a World Cup match) and managed only a 1-0 win over the USA, it was the massive goal differential against Portugal that ensured they sailed through at the top of their group. And in shutting down arguably the best attacking player in the world in Ronaldo, Boateng had more than done his part. But then, winning trophies is nothing new for Jerome Boateng. Like his brother, he was born in West Berlin to a German mother and Ghanaian father. He began his career at age 10 when he joined local side, Tennis Borussia Berlin’s youth team. Later he moved into the youth set-up at Hertha BSC and at the age of 18, he graduated into the senior side. He spent just one season at Olympiastadion before moving to Hamburg, where he played from 2007 until he joined Manchester City in 2010. Although it was at Hamburg that he attracted the attention of Germa-

Photo Credit: zimbio.com

Photo Credit: talksport.com

evin-Prince, who plays for Ghana internationally and for Schalke 04 in the German Bundesliga, criticized the current German side as lacking the character to win the World Cup. Jerome said nothing at the time. But a few weeks later, after Germany had won it all, the normally reserved younger Boateng responded publicly to his brother’s comments. “Characters? Absent characters? World Champions!” tweeted Jerome. It was a rare but deserved moment of self-congratulations from a player who generally prefers to do his talk-

VOL. 2, ISSUE 2 | 2014

Photo Credit: zimbio.com

Unlike his older, more flamboyant brother, Kevin-Prince, 25-year-old Jerome Boateng is known as a quiet soft-spoken fellow off the pitch. And although, the two are said to enjoy a good relationship, there was an incident just prior to the World Cup in Brazil, where team loyalty trumped family ties and some major trash talking took place.

ny coach Jogi Low, eventually earning a spot in the German squad for the 2010 World Cup. Around that same time, he made the move to Man City. But he only played in the Premiership for a single season before moving on to Bayern in an effort to better secure his place in the national team. In Munich, Boateng established beyond a shadow of a doubt that the elite level of European club football is where he truly belongs. In two seasons at Bayern, he’s started 50 matches, won back-to-back Bundesliga titles and managed to lift the 2013 UEFA Champions League. In addition to the World Cup, his trophy cabinet also includes two DFB Pokal Cups, a DFL Supercup and an FA Cup from his one season with City. Jerome may never garner the sort of headlines that his tattooed, bad boy older brother does but at just 25, the younger Boateng has now won just about everything there is to win in football. How’s that for character? Playing at the heart of Bayern Munich and Germany sides that both look set to dominate for the foreseeable future, Jerome Boateng is now a central figure in what looks to be football’s next golden generation. The future is very bright indeed.

SPORTS

Commonwealth Games South Africa, Nigeria Lead Africa’s Gold Haul In Glasgow By Alex Baker | USA

The 2014 Commonwealth Games in Scotland came to a close on August 3, this year with a glittering ceremony in Glasgow. England finished first in the competition with 165 medals, followed by Australia and Canada with 132 and 81 medals respectively. I’m not in shape at all, but Emmarie [Fouche] was able to sharpen me to get me to this level. I didn’t expect to jump 17 meters this year. She put me through that. I felt I could have jumped 17.40 for a national record today, but I think I was just too excited.” In rugby sevens, South Africa pulled off a tremendous upset against New Zealand, beating the All-Blacks 17-12 to take the gold medal. Cyclist Ashleigh Moolman won South Africa’s first ever road racing medal, in a photo finish that saw her edge Australia’s Tiffany Cromwell to take bronze. “I was concerned at the finish, and I really did not think that I had finished third,” said Moolman to the SA Sports Confederation afterwards. “I felt a bit down, and when I saw the photo-finish photo, I just couldn’t believe it. When we crossed the finish line, I just lunged and threw my bike and that’s what made all the difference.” Nigeria finished right behind them in eighth place, with 11 gold, 11 silver and 14 bronze. It was the women who Clos

Mokoena

Photo Credit: SABC

ost nation, Scotland finished fourth with 52 medals. South Africa was the most successful African nation at the games, winning 13 gold, 10 silver and 17 bronze medals to finish seventh overall. South Africa however posted best ever medal haul. Despite their impressive overall take of 40 medals, this year’s Commonwealth Games were somewhat of a lateral progression for South Africa. Although they captured more medals than the 33 they won four years ago in New Delhi, they fell two spots down from their fifth place finish that year. Swimmer Chad le Clos led the way for Team South Africa, with two gold medals, one silver and four bronze. Khotso Mokoena was another highlight, winning the gold medal in the triple jump with an impressive 17.20-meter score. Afterwards, the 29-year-old credited his coach. “I didn’t have a full season as I only started training three weeks before Nationals,” said Mokoena afterwards, speaking to Citizen. “To be frank,

really shone for Nigeria at this year’s games. Blessing Okagbare emerged as Team Nigeria’s star, with three medals total including gold in the women’s 200 meters. “It’s amazing,” said the 25-year-old to reporters after setting a record of 10.85 to win the race. “I feel extremely blessed; it’s not easy to get a medal, so it is something to celebrate.”

Odunayo Adekuoroye brought some African flavor to the games, when she broke out into a Nigerian tribal dance after overcoming India’s Lalita Lalita to take gold in the women’s 53kg freestyle wrestling. Esther Onyema on the other hand ensured that Nigeria remained the only country to have won gold in women’s Commonwealth powerlifting, winning the gold this year after Nigeria swept the podium four years ago. For Nigeria, this year’s games were an all-around improvement over four years ago. Nigeria’s total medal haul was 36, one better than what they accomplished at the 2010 New Delhi Commonwealth Games. They also finished one place higher in the standings at eighth. Nigeria would have won one more medal, had Chika Amalaha not tested positive for diuretics and masking agents that violated anti-doping regulations. As a result the teenage weightlifter was stripped of her gold medal from the women’s 53kg category. This year’s games were obviously not without their controversies. But overall, they were a tremendous success in general and for African athletes who combined to win a total of 125 medals at the competition. With Kenya finishing just behind Nigeria in ninth place, African athletes made an excellent account of themselves at these games and have shown plenty of reasons to be optimistic about both the 2016 Olympics in Brazil, and the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Australia.

Photo Credit: zimbio.com

Photo Credit: swimswam.com

Okagbare

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

CONTINUED WOLE SOYINKA continued from page 23

literary experiments and an incubator encasing the seeds of his genius.

Prophecy, Vision and Nation building It is important to interrogate the notion of prophecy, expressed through protest as a vocation. I will argue that indeed, protesters or rebels have often been the prophets every society requires to grow. They are often despised and vilified in their societies. They are often considered enemies of state, traitors of a cause, turncoats, villains, or saboteurs. Most prophets often die in ignominy and often, the fruits of their prophecy ripen years or even centuries after they are gone. Damned is the society that neglects the voice of the prophet or does not possess the capacity to discern the seeds of prophecy.

As Napoleon said, rather than blaming Religion, we should be thankful because, it is religion that stops the poor from killing the rich!

Religion and the Trial of Brother Jero Perhaps one area that stands out in the works of our celebrant has been his views about religion and its place, if any, in society. The Trial of Brother Jero is a timeless and priceless piece of writing and perhaps it really highlighted our celebrant’s deep insights into religion and the power of manipulation. If we are looking for evidence of the author’s genius right from the beginning, it is hard to surpass this piece of work given the time of its writing, fifty years ago. Perhaps what is most significant is the fact that the work itself was prophetic in a sense. However, beyond that, we must address the issues of the resilience of religion, given how Brother Jeroboam has re-invented himself and almost literally now taunts his creator today. We are therefore compelled to address a more fundamental question as to what the role and place of religion are in shaping society. For us in Africa, the popular thinking among popular social theorists is that religion has become the problem in Africa. African social theorists have caricatured and uncritically applied Karl Marx’s rather weak materialistic tools of analysis and concluded that first, religion is

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part of the financial sector integration and regionalization agenda. The workshop reviewed modalities for domesticating the Council Directives on Securities Market into national laws of the respective Partner States. The workshop was held under the ambit of the EAC Financial Sector Development and Regionalization Project I (FSDRP I). Speaking at the workshop, Dr. Enos Bukuku, the Deputy Secretary General in charge of Planning and Infrastructure noted that development of the Council Directives was an approach the EAC Securities Market Regulators had opted for as the most feasible strategy. This took into consideration that the Capital Markets in the Partner States are at different levels of development and an overarching Community Law would only be feasible in the long-term after a high degree of convergence between the five different Capital Markets has been attained. Source: East African Community Secretariat (EAC) ELIZADE UNIVERSITY continued from page 10

world-class institution of higher learning dedicated not only to the pursuit of academic excellence, but also to the development of a sound mind and body of its populace. At a time when the quality of graduates from higher institutions of learning is increasingly becoming questionable, and while the cost of university education (especially in private universities) is skyrocketing and becoming unaffordable for most parents, Elizade University seems set in its mission of providing good quality, and affordable education to all who come through its gate. 42

VOL. 2, ISSUE 2 | 2014

Damned is the society that neglects the voice of the prophet or does not possess the capacity to discern the seeds of prophecy. the opium of the people and the preoccupation of the poor and ignorant. Now, religion has come back with a vengeance to taunt and discount these shallow claims. Indeed, as Napoleon said, rather than blaming Religion, we should be thankful because, it is religion that stops the poor from killing the rich! What we require now are new visionaries to set higher standards. What we need now are new dreamers with the necessary imagination to summon our people to a greater tomorrow. Yes, We Set Forth At Dawn and are still on The Road. Yes, we have beatified many area boys. Yes, we were the Running Sore Of A Continent. Yes, we all stood by when The Man Died. Yes, we have lived through The Penkelemes Years. Yes, we have witnessed the Trial Of Brother Jero, but, where are The Interpreters today? Finally, the challenge now is not so much what the celebrant’s legacy

should be. His place is already assured among the pantheon of the great men and women of letters. The next generation of writers must address the questions of the relationship between Life and Art. Perhaps we can argue that the writings of the celebrant have attempted to use art to imitate life, drawing inspiration from the realities of the society, warts and all. What we now need is new generations of Nigerian artists who will make Life imitate Art. By doing this, they can hold before us a world that is not here, but is possible. They can offer us a vision of a society that is not here yet but one to which we can align our politics, religion and culture as a people. They can summon to bear our burden with joy, to conquer our darkness with courage. That is the only spirit that can summon us to say, yes, we can and yes, we must. It is the only spirit that can bend the arc of justice in our direction. Excerpts from speech delivered at the event organized by The Pyrates Confraternity, Nigeria in commemoration of Professor Wole Soyinka’s 80th birthday. Rev Father Matthew Hassan Kukah is the Bishop of Sokoto Catholic Diocese.

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In 2003, she received the best prize that Hollywood has to offer any actor. For her performance as Aileen Wuornos in Monster (2003), Theron won the Oscar for Best Actress and thus became the first African to win an Academy Award in a major acting category. Two years after Monster, Theron was nominated again for an Oscar in the same category for her performance in North Country (2005). She was inducted to the Hollywood Walk of Fame on September 29, 2005 with one star. Theron is the only African actress with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. About 2500 personalities from around the world are represented on the Walk.

While in college, he got a part time job at a clothing store. With his 6, 2” frame, it didn’t take long before someone noticed and introduced him to modeling. His modeling trips around the world led him to Hollywood, and the rest, in his case, is a string of noteworthy film credits that include Congo (1995), Get Rich or Die Trying (2005), The Bourne Identity (2002), Thor: The Dark World (2013), Bullet to the Head (2012), Best Laid Plans (2012), and Pompeii (2014). Akinnuoye-Agbaje is however perhaps best known for his commanding present in ABC’s drama, Lost (as Mr. Eko) and HBO’s prison series Oz.Non dit gra nuliae consum

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2012, he won the Golden Globe award for Best Actor in a Series, Miniseries, or Motion Picture Made for Television. He has also been nominated thrice for Primetime Emmy Award.

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