DIGNITY DEFINED: Tom Adaba @ 81
Words: Oyiza Adaba
Photos: David Araga, Margaret Adaba-Soyemi, T.A.L.P, Africa-Related
SEPTEMBER 2022
2nd Edition
The veteran broadcaster remains a rare breed with a fighting will to live, do more and witness the change he has long-desired for his motherland Nigeria. On his 81st birthday, he speaks to the conscience of both the Nation and citizens alike.
In the second edition of his upcoming memoirs But For God, soon to be released on September 1, 2022, the Ohi Etohueyi of Ebiraland reflects deeply on a life richly blessed life, the challenges and triumphs along the way. The memoir - in book and audiobook formats, will be released on September 1, 2022.
“Over time, Nigeria has morphed into a convoluted country driven by greed, corruption, and leadership and governance ineptitude. The sheep have no credible shepherds and so are left to flounder in poverty, indiscipline, insecurity and blossoming criminality. Right before our eyes the country is bound on a journey to nowhere and is careening towards total collapse. We are watching a steady disintegration of human values and national ethos.”
- Thomas Aaze Adaba -
Excerpt from ‘BUT FOR GOD’
In 2021, The Tom Adaba Legacy Project (T.A.L.P) was launched with operations in Abuja and Okene. The project’s key focus areas are preserving indigenous culture, promoting education & improving living standards.
To live up to its set objectives, the project joined forces in 2022 with Ita’i Our Cloth - a weaving social enterprise - to build a community centre for learning seated in the heart of Okene. The Tom Adaba Legacy Center is a purpose-driven community centre for knowledge, which will house training facilities for vocational and academic exchange, with a global outlook.
The project is expected to be carried out in two phases over a twenty-four month period, and is open for local and international partnerships.
T.A.L.P works with children’s education, cultural preservation, philanthropy and advocacy
Sign up to the Tom Adaba Legacy mailing list to get notifications, news and upcoming events
CELEBRATE EACH OTHER IN LIFE
TIME WAITS…
CELEBRATE EACH OTHER IN LIFE
Words: Africa-Related
Video: Durban University of Technology
Much respect to the late Dr. Joseph Shabalala, and the harmonious sounds he brought us through Ladysmith Black Mabmazo, the five-time Grammy-winning South African male choral group he founded in 1976.
Video of Dr. Jospeh Shabalala being awarded an honorary degree at Durban University of Technology in 2015. Video courtesy of DUT
This video of him being awarded an honorary degree at Durban University of Technology in 2015 is heartwarming, as he would pass on only five years later on February 11, 2020 at the age of 79. Most striking was how speechless he was with the award, and how vocal he got when the singing started. He was well celebrated in life and deservedly honoured in death.
He founded the music group - fondly remembered for their work on the 'Graceland' album with Paul Simon - in his hometown of Ladysmith district in KwaZulu-Natal region in South Africa. He officially handed down the group's leadership to his son Thamsanqa Shabalala in 2015. Thank you for the music, Sir!
You’ve got to love South African music!
Africa-Related is a media content production house
GOGE AFRICA Highlights WEAVING In EBIRALAND
Words: Rosemary O. Onubaiye & Oyiza Adaba
Photo/Video: Goge Africa
Okene - Kogi State, Nigeria
Nneka & Metche Isaac-Moses
Cultural Ambassadors & Hosts of
GOGE AFRICA
“The Itinochi hand woven cloth of the Ebira people is perhaps Nigeria's most authentic traditional fashion masterpieces. It is the most durable and wearable artistic heritage of our people. Let us celebrate the uncommon beauty of an economy-driven traditional practice, sustained by women through the ages”.
- Nneka & Metche Isaac-Moses
Gogeafricatv at Ohueje Ohinoyi Cultural Festival March 2022
The long-running multi-award winning travel TV series Goge Africa, gave extensive coverage to the 2022 edition of Ohueje Ohinoyi - the yearly Cultural Festival of the Ebira people held every March in Okene, Kogi State, central Nigeria. In line with the theme 'The 100 Loom Match', the three-day event gave focus to one of the more visible qualities of the Ebira people - Weaving. Ohueje Ohinoyi is in its sixth edition and is supported by Africa-Related and Ita'i Our Cloth.
Full Report: Ohueje Ohinoyi Cultural Festival 2022
THEME: 100 LOOM MARCH - Repositioning Ebira Heritage for Economic Prosperity
Features
Weaving Competition
Symposium
Dancing Competition
Exhibitions
Food-fair
The 2022 edition of Ohueje Ohinoyi themed 100 LOOM MARCH - Repositioning Ebira Heritage for Economic Prosperity - took place on March 3-5 2022 at Ado Ibrahim Civic Centre, Okene, Kogi State. The 3-day event was all about empowering women through the ancient art of weaving. The festival is supported by Anebira Heritage Foundation and in partnership with Ita'i Our Cloth and Africa-Related.
3rd March 2022
Day 1: Opened with a display of current and historical images of Ebira sons and daughters, exhibition stands for display by Art & Culture Abuja, Ita’i Our Cloth, a symposium with participating schools and many more activities.
Symposium Topic: Traditional Cloth Weaving in Ebiraland. Presented by ALH. Okehi Abdulaziz Yusuf
The symposium called on the relevant educational bodies to include weaving in the school curriculum.
The weavers were already set up to start the weaving competition, as seen in their different colours, skills and patterns other activities were going on side by side
School children and visiting guests were shown the weaving process by weavers from various parts of the region, who congregated at the venue with their loom, yarns and weaving material. They provided several demos for the crowd.
4th March 2022
Day 2: Food Fair with a variety of locally made food produce and meals on display. Dancing competition, amidst the weaving contest
5th March 2022
Day 3: Grand finale with every activity from day one, culminating in the finale with some additional features With the exhibition, festivities, masquerade, sales etc all happening simultaneously, there was a fashion display presented by SHIZANUEL Collections an Abuja based designer, dancing masquerades, GUODO products made from fabric from the Middlebelt region states of Plateau, Nassarawa, Benue, Taraba, Kogi, Niger and Southern part of Kaduna states.
Highlights of the festival include an address by Ebira Historian and Emeritus Professor of Art History Prof. John Picton who covered the region extensively from the 60s; and the award ceremony that presented winning weavers for BEST QUALITY, MOST CREATIVE and OVERALL Best with certificates of participation. The women could not hold back their joy knowing that they are finally getting the recognition they deserve, and expressed their thanks to the organizers.
Ohueje Ohinoyi - which means the king's courtyard - is an annual festival to celebrate Ebira indigenous culture and tradition.
Photo Coverage: Ohueje Ohinoyi 2022
Want to know more?
Follow Goge Africa @gogeafrica @nnekaisaacmoses @metcheisaacmoses
Follow Ita'i Our Cloth @itaiourcloth
Follow Ohueje Ohinoyi @ohueje_ohinoyi
Follow Anebira Heritage Foundation @anebiraheritage
Oyiza Adaba is a journalist & producer @africarelated
Rosemary Onubaiye works with media, women & communities
HOUSTON - GLOBAL ENERGY CAPITAL Takes The Lead In Energy Transition By 2050
HOUSTON
GLOBAL ENERGY CAPITAL Takes The Lead In Energy Transition By 2050
Houston aerial view: Photo by Vlad BusuiocWords: Oyiza Adaba
Photo: Africa-Related/Vlad Busuioc
Houston, Texas
Mayor Sylvester Turner's office announced on Friday that the city of Houston will be leading a delegation to Paris from June 27-July 2, as part of its preliminary mission in combating the environmental impact of the global energy industry..
Christopher Olsen, Director of Trade and International Affairs City of Houston
Bob Harvey President and CEO of the Greater Houston Partnership
Speaking to the Foreign Press, the President and CEO of the Greater Houston Partnership, Bob Harvey outlined the objectives and commitments of Houston Energy Transition Initiative (HEDI) which was launched last year. The coalition of 18 key global energy stakeholders will begin the steps toward this transition process, which is expected to lower the world's carbon footprint to net zero by 2050. Their strategy, which leverages on the oil and gas leadership to accelerate these global solutions, will focus on four working sectors - carbon capture, use & storage; clean energy & hydrogen development; industrial decarbonisation, and funding or capital formation.
Known as the energy capital of the world, Houson is strategic for many reasons. It is home to the renowned Texas Medical Center with MD Anderson Cancer Center, the Johnson Space Center, 25 Fortune 500 corporate headquarters, the Port of Houston which is the largest port in the US, over 1,700 foreign-owned firms and a large foreign born population.
"Houston is the only city in the world frankly, with the technology expertise, the commercial skills, the manufacturing talent, the infrastructure, to lead the transition to a more sustainable, open future on a global scale"
-Bob Harvey
Mayor Sylvester Turner who also heads the U.S Climate Network acknowledged the benefits of this initiative to the city's institutions and residents, and said much of Houston's success is built on private public partnership. He was represented by Christopher Olsen, Director of Trade and International Affairs, who used the opportunity to commend the 'robust' African Diaspora residents in Houston and their contribution to politics, culture and the economy. He called on the Nigerian Government to establish a much-needed Consulate in the city for what he described as 'one of the largest Nigerian populations outside of Nigeria'.
HEDI to some may be an acknowledgement to decades of environmental degradation caused by the industry's practices like burning of fossil fuel. To others, it could be a start in the industry's effort to right some of its past wrongs, as seen in places like Nigeria's Niger Delta region. The burden of delivering environmental justice, clean energy and development to communities especially those most impacted, however shouldn't be on Houston alone. In Harvey's words,
"…There's simply no way we're going to move forward globally, with trillions of dollars of investment to support the energy transition, without it being inclusive, and being very mindful of both current and past inequities, and how this program is going to speak to them.
- Bob Harvey
HEDI estimates about 560,000 new jobs by 2050, if properly implemented. If HEDI were to make a dent of an impact, it would need partnerships and commitments from global Governments, corporations and communities to adopt their framework, in order to credibly achieve its objectives of clean energy production and environment.
"If we do nothing but follow the path of the traditional energy industry, Houston will likely shed half 1,500,000 jobs by 2050.
- Bob Harvey
Learn more about HEDI and the City of Houston
Oyiza Adaba is Nigerian journalist and producer @africarelated
"We Will Now Go To Kpaaza" UCHE OKEKE EXHIBITS AT IWALEWAHAUS
The ongoing exhibition at Iwalewahaus in Bayreuth Germany in honour of the late seminal artist, master illustrator and scholar Uche Okeke, encapsulates his entire artistic journey that helped redefine Nigeria's art history and direction.
Uche Okeke Exhibition at Iwalewahaus: Fabled Brute Uche Okeke 1959
Words: Oyiza Adaba
Photos: Iwalewahaus/ Asele Institute
Bayreuth, Germany
The ongoing exhibition at Iwalewahaus in Bayreuth Germany in honour of the late seminal artist, master illustrator and scholar Uche Okeke, encapsulates his entire artistic journey that helped redefine Nigeria's art history and direction.
From his pencil works to his Uli-inspired themes, Okeke played freely with forms, lines etc; he advocated through The Zaria Art Society for an artistic meeting point called Natural Synthesis - a blend of the old and new, modern and ancient, traditional and contemporary.
Okeke is a product of a rich African heritage and extensive global training. An Igbo man from Nimo in Anambra State eastern Nigeria who grew up in the northern region of Kafanchan, he learned the traditional body-painting art of 'Uli' from his mother, and later imbibed characters from childhood folktales in his globally celebrated art. His training in the art of stained glass and mosaic in the then West Germany further established a lifetime network of friends and contemporaries.
Okeke passed in 2016, leaving his treasure trove in the hands of The Asele Institute in Nimo, Nigeria and The Professor Uche Okeke Legacy Limited. Managed by his family, both estates have collaborated with Iwalewahaus to make this exhibition possible. Other featured artists include his devoted wife Ego Uche-Okeke, Bruce Onobrakpeya, Demas Nwoko, Okechukwu Odita, Oseloka Osadebe, Uzochukwu Ndubisi, Emmanuel Tetteh, C.O. Ibe, Kuniyasu, J.O. Akujobi, Anozie, F.N. Ekeada, Martin O.C. Onwuzuruoha, Ibrahim El Salahi, Mathias Kauage. Digital intervention by Jeremiah Ikongio in conversation with Uche Okeke’s text-based and sculptural artworks.
'We will now go to Kpaaza’
This was one of Okeke’s regular expressions, inspired by a line ‘I will not go to Kpaaza’ in the poem he titled 'Early Enochs’. 'Kpaaza' to him was a creative journey, a thought process, facing the task ahead.
Let's go!
Iwalewahaus,Bayreuth Germany
April 29 – October 15 2022
Follow the exhibition online here:
https://the-uche-okeke-exhibition.com/?page_id=4
Media/Interview Request:
Oyiza Adaba is a Nigerian journalist and producer @africarelated
REFUGEES HAVE RIGHTS and COUNTRIES HAVE RESPONSIBILITY
US Assistant Secretary for Population, Refugees, and Migration Julieta Valls Noyes briefs the Foreign Press
US Assistant Secretary for Population, Refugees, and Migration Julieta Valls Noyes
Words: Oyiza Adaba
Photo: Africa-Related
Video: Foreign Press Center
Migration continues to be a global hot topic from China to Ukraine and from South America to Africa. On World Refugee Day 2022, US Assistant Secretary for Population, Refugees, and Migration Julieta Valls Noyes briefs the Foreign Press from Washington D.C. She reiterated the United States’ commitment to addressing the challenge.
"We encourage host governments to provide durable solutions for refugees including by enabling local integration, granting citizenship and including refugees in their development plans."
"... self reliance benefits the refugees and the donors and the hosts especially as conflicts are becoming longer lasting and displacement continues to rise."
"Wherever they are, whoever they are, wherever it is really, believe that refugees have the right, and we as responsible countries have the responsibility to help them seek safety."
Oyiza Adaba is a Nigerian journalist and producer @africarelated
ORLANDO JULIUS IS LAID TO REST
Nigeria's Foremost Saxophonist Sir Orlando Julius Exits In A Colourful/Musical Ceremony
Nigeria's Foremost Saxophonist Sir Orlando Julius Exits In A Colourful/Musical Ceremony
Ijebu-Jesa, Osun State Nigeria
Words: Oyiza Adaba
Photos: Dede Mabiaku/Africa-Related
Orlando Julius Aremu Olusanya Ekemode, known professionally as Orlando Julius or Orlando Julius Ekemode was a Nigerian saxophonist, singer, bandleader, and songwriter closely associated with afrobeat music.
The multi-instrumentalist - who as worked with everyone from Louis Armstrong, Lijadu Sisters, Fela Kuti, Herbie Hancock, Grover Washington Jr., Hugh Masekela etc - passed in his sleep on April 15, 2022 at the age of 78.
His devoted wife Aduke Latoya Ekemode remained ALWAYS by his side.
Read more about his rich life, legacy and his contributions to adding definitions to the music genres that we know today as Afrobeat, Highlife and Afro-Soul.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orlando_Julius
REST in POWER!
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SPOTLIGHT ON GUODO: ITA'I @ 1st TINCITY Fashion Week
The spotlight is cast on one of the oldest woven cloth pieces from the middle belt region of Nigeria…
Words: Rosemary Onubaiye
Photos: TCFW/Africa-Related
Jos, Plateau State NIGERIA
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Ita'i Our Cloth, a weaving social enterprise based in Okene Kogi State recently showcased at the TinCity Fashion Week, which took place in the city of Jos, Plateau State in November 2021.
The first edition highlighted the Guodo - the woven cloth of the ethnic groups found across the Middle Belt Region of Nigeria. Participating designers were thrilled to deliver their creative interpretations and transform the runway for three nights in Jos!
Ita’i featured designers like Zizi Cardow and Morino, who worked with the Okene/Ebira woven cloth . The event was organised by Ms. Christabel Bentu of TCFW and supported by various sponsors.
Read more about the historical significance and the many uses of the Guodo Cloth below.
Historical Background
It has been observed by stakeholders in the FASHION and THE CREATIVE industry on the PLATEAU and the MIDDLE BELT region of Nigeria that there is a CRITICAL NEED to revive and promote the local textiles and fashion industries in order to rekindle a general interest among the people of Central Nigeria and by extension Nigeria and globally in patronizing our indigenous traditional fabric and designs.
This is to ensure that the local industries are sustained at home and in the global market. This will also serve as forum for the Preservation, Promotion and Presentation of our unique and rich traditional fabrics. It will further create job opportunities for millions of unemployed youths, thus reducing the incidence of extreme poverty within the already highly marginalized region.
2021 PROGRAMME CONTENT
(A)TEXTILE FAIR
This event will involve textile, weavers and accessories produced and displayed by the traditional fabric manufacturers and producers from the MIDDLE BELT REGION states:- Plateau, Nassarawa, Benue, Taraba, Kogi, Niger and Southern part of Kaduna states. They will converge in Jos and at an Event center to display a variety of traditional fabrics, accessories etc to the public and for sale---a kind of textile market for the JOS FASHION WEEK.
(B) FASHION SHOW
This Event will bring together FASHION DESIGNERS from these six States to display their designs in an organized show with emphasis on fabrics from the six earmarked States of the Middle Belt Region .
(C) STAR APPEARANCES
This will feature Nationally and Internationally known fashion designers, putting up a show-appearance to add value to the entire event. Similarly, Music stars, Comedians, Actors, Star footballers etc to perform/show up at the event for Endowment.
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
1. To introduce the Middle Belt region traditional fabrics to the Nigerian/Global market.
2. To Promote and Create a market local textile and fashion designers within the area of coverage.
3. To provide a platform for Exchange of ideas among producers in order to enhance standards for National and International recognitions and patronage.
4. To promote Middle belt dress culture and provide a tourist market that would sustain the viability of the industry.
5. To showcase the creations of promising designers newly introduced to the fashion world.
6. To help strengthen the Entertainment and Creative industries on the Plateau, thereby restoring it's lost glory.
7. To provide at forum for fostering PEACE AND UNITY among all Nigerians.
PROJECTING GUODO - Africa Fashion Week
BRIEF HISTORY OF PLATEAU STATE
The name PLATEAU is derived from the nature and form of its prominent landmass, which is largely occupied by Rocks, Hills, Mountains ETC.
Out of the original area coverage created initially, two States later emerged out of PLATEAU STATE namely BENUE and NASSARAWA STATES. These three states namely PLATEAU, NASSARAWA and BENUE STATES make up the center of the Geographical area called the Middle Belt region. Other states within the Middle belt region include TARABA, KOGI, NIGER and SOUTHERN PART OF KADUNA STATES.
Historically, these six/seven States have similar cultures having migrated from the famous KWARARAFA KINGDOM. The dances, dress code, language, values and norms of the people have similarities. This is why our proposed programme plans to concentrate largely on the indigenous fabrics and designs from the Middle Belt region
Source: TinCity Fashion Week
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COMMUNITY PILLARS: Rosemary Onubaiye Is A Respected Voice
This mother of three from Okene, Nigeria wears several hats, and functions in the following capacities: Country Director with Ita’i - Our Cloth; Community Voice/Leader at Tom Adaba Legacy and Media Representative at Africa-Related Inc.
Mrs. Rosemary Onubaiye - A Community Voice from Okene, Nigeria. (Photo by David Araga/Africa-Related)
This mother of three from Okene, Nigeria wears several hats, and functions in the following capacities: Country Director with Ita’i - Our Cloth; Community Voice/Leader at Tom Adaba Legacy and Media Representative at Africa-Related Inc.
ROSEMARY ONUBAIYE holds a B.Sc. in Public Administration from the University of Abuja. After graduating in 2015, she pursued her passion for broadcasting with her first official media job with Africa-Related Inc. as an Administrative Assistant. She has continued to hone her production, presenting and writing crafts while working on multiple productions including'OHUEJE OHINOYI 2018/19' AND 'ITINOCHI' - an upcoming documentary film on the intriguing journey of the Ebira Cloth.
As an Indigenous Ebira woman from Okene, Rosemary is the Country Head for Ita’i Our Cloth, a grassroots initiative which developed into an apparel/home brand company that not only promotes weaving as a cultural heritage, but also empowers women and the develops the community.
The mother-of-three girls is a muti-tasking, creative who loves to read and is open to learn new skills.
PRODUCTION SAMPLES
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FINALLY! EL ANATSUI OPENS THE CONCIERGERIE IN PARIS
The pandemic had delayed Anatsui's first solo exhibition in France, and a welcomed breath of fresh air greeted the art world today, as galleries and museums worldwide slowly begin reopening.
A welcomed breath of fresh air greeted the art world today, as galleries and museums worldwide slowly begin reopening.
PARIS, France
Words: Oyiza Adaba
Photos: Eric Dereumaux
Exhibition: May 19, 2021
Exhibition: May 20 - November 24, 2021
The pandemic delayed Anatsui's first solo exhibition in France, and now the doors the former medieval royal palace which became a prison during the Revolution, have opened to the public.
The poetic installation by the globally-acclaimed sculptor echoes the history of the location and the passing of time. By calling on the five elements: water, wind, wood, metal and stone, Anatsui fills the walls and fireplaces with six new sculptures that reflect the theme.
The exhibition is part of the Africa 2020 Season and is opened through November 24, 2021.
El Anatsui The Film Produced by Africa-Related Inc COMING SOON
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WOMEN ENTERPRISE ITA'I FEATURES WEAVING AT 1st TEDx OKENE 2021
HAND-WOVEN social enterprise, ITA'I - OUR CLOTH showcased their collection of Ebira woven Cloth at the first ever TEDx Okene on January 30, 2021
By Rosemary Onubaiye
Photos: David Araga/Africa-Related
Photo: David Araga/Africa-Related (2021)
ITA'I - OUR CLOTH is an exclusive HAND-WOVEN social enterprise rooted in Okene, with operations in Lagos, Nigeria and New York City recently showcased its collection at the first ever TEDx Okene.
Founded in 2019, this global brand with a home-felt impact is dedicated to bringing a modern approach to preserving, presenting and promoting Africa’s cultural heritage through the woven cloth; and in line with the seven of the United Nations Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs).
The vision at Ita’i is to make Ita'i a global brand with a home-felt impact, and it goes about it by encouraging community development and women empowerment through existing resources such as weaving.
PHOTOS
What can you do?
DESIGN + PARTNER + BUY + DONATE
@itaiourcloth www.itaiourcloth.com
SHOP: online or call
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Community Pillars Of The South Bronx: Rev John & Pastor Felicia Udo-Okon
The Nigerian-born hosts, Rev. John and Rev. Felicia Udo-Okon have been serving the spiritual, physical and social needs of the underserved South Bronx community for over 20 years through their ministry Word of Life International. They conduct food pantry, social and medical outreach programs.
By Oyiza Adaba, New York
“Feeding Souls & Bodies” - Rev. John & Felicia Udo-Okon of Word of Life International in front of their South Bronx location in New York. (Photo by Africa-Related)
The Nigerian-born hosts, Rev. John and Rev. Felicia Udo-Okon have been serving the spiritual, physical and social needs of the underserved South Bronx community for over 20 years through their ministry Word of Life International. They conduct food pantry, social and medical outreach programs.
REV. JOHN UDO-OKON
Rev. (Dr.) John Udo-Okon is the Senior Pastor at Word Of Life Christian Fellowship International, Inc. , Bronx, New York and the Executive Director, Word Of Life International, Inc., a community outreach and development corporation based in the South Bronx of New York City. Rev. Udo-Okon together with his wife, Rev. Felicia Udo-Okon has devotedly worked with his congregation to fight hunger and poverty in New York City. Thousands of New Yorkers are served monthly at their program. He is an Executive Fellow, Class of 2007-2008 of the Nonprofit Leadership Development Institute of the United Way of New York City. In 2008, he completed Executive Leadership Certificate program at Support Center For Nonprofit Management, New York, New York. In 2010, Rev. Udo-Okon also completed the Mentoring Supervision Training with Big Brothers Big Sisters of New York City. His organization, Word Of Life International, Inc. has become a beacon of hope in the Bronx continually finding ways to provide meaningful services that sustain lives and support independent and productive living.
REV. FELICIA UDO-OKON
Rev. (Mrs.) Felicia Udo-Okon serves as Co-pastor, Word Of Life Christian Fellowship International, Inc. and the Director Of Food and Fitness Program, Word Of Life International, Inc. For over 20 years, she has worked alongside her husband, Rev. (Dr.) John Udo-Okon in both the formation and development of the two organizations. Word of Life International, Inc. serves an average of 8,000 household members every month.
Rev. (Mrs.) Udo-Okon has contributed immensely and in various capacities to the mission and development of Word Of Life International Inc. She has consistently proved to be an enthusiastic worker and team leader who has initiated and participated in a number of initiatives that have greatly impacted the lives of our clients and community residents. The mission of Word Of Life International, Inc. is to provide short and long term support that enhances self-sufficiency to poor and low-income families especially women, children, veterans, the elderly, immigrants, and the unemployed in the South Bronx and its surrounding neighborhoods. Its program services include among others: Community Food Pantry, senior wellness program, fitness program, health outreach, nutrition training, benefit enrollment/ referrals, and youth development programs.
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WATCH INTERVIEW WITH REV. JOHN & FELICIA UDO-OKON
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Raising President Jerry John Rawlings: Madam Victoria Agbotui Passes On
Former President Jerry Rawlings of Ghana buriea his mother
Photos: President Rawlings Library
IMAGES FROM THE FUNERAL OF MADAM VICTORIA AGBOTUI
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Word Of Life Welcomes New York City Council Member Ritchie Torres
The youngest New York City Council member representing The Bronx recently visited The Word Of Life Christian Fellowship International. His mission was to connect to the community through the church, food pantry and social services
By Oyiza Adaba, New York
Council Member Ritchie Torres handing our food at Word of Life Int’l in the South Bronx. (Photo by Africa-Related)
The youngest New York City Council member representing The Bronx recently visited The Word Of Life Christian Fellowship International. His mission was to connect to the community through the church, food pantry and social services provided by the founders Rev John and Felicia Udo-Okon. During his visit, Torres distributed food produce provided by Fresh Direct, and spoke intermittently to the long tine of S. Bronx residents who gathered to meet him.
The Nigerian-born hosts, Rev. John and Rev. Felicia Udo-Okon have been serving the spiritual, physical and social needs of the community for over 20 years through their ministry, food pantry, social and medical outreach programs.
PHOTOS BY AFRICA-RELATED
South Bronx Food Pantry Becomes CitiBike's 1000th Location
The popular New York City transportation and leisure bike lending system rode into Word of Life with a small and socially distant fanfare and new graffiti mural unveiled by Bronx-based award-winning artist/muralist Andre Trenie
By Oyiza Adaba, New York
Citibike 1000th Location Opening Ceremony at Word of Life Int’l in the south Bronx. (Photo by Africa_Related)
The Word Of Life International founded by Rev. John & Felicia Udo-Okon put up a colorful welcoming to the South Bronx for Citi Bike, marking its 1000th site opening across the city. The popular New York City transportation and leisure bike lending system rode into Word of Life with a small and socially distant fanfare and new graffiti mural unveiled by Bronx-based award-winning artist and muralist Andre Trenier.
The bright and beautiful yellow, blue and green mural covering the entire building front is of the artist's wife riding a citibike.
Local City Council members, media and officials from Citibike were represented and spoke glowingly of the Ministry's immense contribution to the South Bronx community and beyond.
The Nigerian-born hosts, Rev. John and Rev. Felicia Udo-Okon have been serving the spiritual, physical and social needs of the community for over 20 years through their ministry, food pantry, social and medical outreach programs.
PHOTOS BY AFRICA-RELATED
Steel Pulse @ Brooklyn Bowl NY December 2019
The Legendary Steele Pulse perform live @ Brooklyn Bowl NY
“Life without music?
I can’t go on...”
— Steele Pulse ‘Roller Skates’
By Oyiza Adaba | Africa-Related New York
The Legendary multi-academy award winning Reggae band performed at the Brooklyn Bowl New York on December 27-28 2019. The show also featured artists like The Lagond Allstars and DJ JAH Culture.
Artist Info
Bearing witness to the accelerating negativity of global affairs, UK reggae legends, Steel Pulse, emerge with musical vengeance to halt the disarray of humanity. The forthcoming album, Mass Manipulation, set for early 2019 release (Rootfire Cooperative / Wiseman Doctrine), reflects four decades of bettering mankind through music. The debut single “Stop You Coming And Come” features ancient melodies paired with catchy lyrics, transporting the mind to a period of time where secrets of an African dynasty are unmasked. As reggae revolutionaries, Steel Pulse is revered by the younger generation of artists and remains a powerhouse on stages around the globe. Through the example of Mass Manipulation, Steel Pulse demonstrates the endless possibilities that come from breaking down the walls of systemic greed, and nurturing the fellowship of mankind.
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El Anatsui Bags Traditional Title - IKEDIRE of Nsukka
On August 24, 2019, Emeritus Professor El Anatsui enjoyed an installation of a different kind. The traditional ruler of Ihe/Owerre Nsukka in Enugu State, Nigeria, Igwe George F. O. Asadu conferred a traditional title on the artistic icon and long-time resident of Nsukka (since 1975). In so doing, Prof El Anatsui was received into the Council of the Igwe and regarded as IKEDIRE.
Oyiza Adaba and Uche Onyishi
Photos: Elijah Okoro for Africa-Related
NSUKKA - NIGERIA
IKEDIRE of NSUKKA
Globally acclaimed sculptor and long-time Nsukka resident of 45 years, Ghanaian artist EL Anatsui is IKEDIRE of Nsukka. Photo by Africa-Related.
“power which is effective”
AUGUST 24, 2019
“Intimidating”
On August 24, 2019, Emeritus Professor El Anatsui enjoyed an installation of a different kind. The traditional ruler of Ihe/Owerre Nsukka in Enugu State, Nigeria, Igwe George F. O. Asadu conferred a traditional title on the artistic icon and long-time resident of Nsukka (since 1975). In so doing, Prof El Anatsui was received into the Council of the Igwe and regarded as IKEDIRE.
“Anyone that has remained happily in a place for 45 years is long overdue its citizenship.”
FULL REGALIA
Emeritus Professor El Anatsui - Ikedire of Nsukka with the traditional ruler of Ihe/Owerre Nsukka in Enugu State, Nigeria Igwe George F. O. Asadu.
The traditional title of 'Ikedire', meaning 'power which is effective' reflects Anatsui's commitment to his adopted community of Nsukka, a university town in the south-east where he taught at the University of Nigeria from 1975 until he retired in 2012. Although this native son of Ghana has enjoyed world wide acclaim through his art, he is also known for his humanitarian and community initiatives, which directly impacts lives.
‘Intimidating’, was the word used by Prof. Greg Mbajiogu, a lecturer in theatre and film studies to describe Anatsui’s citation. Above the accolades and speeches was one shared sentiment - “This is an honour overdue”. Fiends and colleagues who attended the simple ceremony at the Igwe's home; appreciate its depth and agree that Anatsui's contributions have in no small measure put Nsukka on the world map.
In Igwe Asadu’s words, ‘Anyone that has remained happily in a place for 45 years is long overdue its citizenship’.
For more info on El Anatsui, visit elanatsui.art . Watch El Anatsui’s biographical documentary here.
PHOTO HIGHLIGHTS
Photos by @africarelated
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Medger Evers College: Executive Leadership Certificate Program (ELCP) 2019
The 4-Day Inaugural Executive Leadership Certificate Program, organized by Medgar Evers College (MEC), Brooklyn and The City University of New York in New York (CUNY) recently concluded on July 8-11, 2019.
BY OYIZA ADABA | AFRICA-RELATED NEW YORK
NEW YORK July 17, 2019. The 4-Day Inaugural Executive Leadership Certificate Program, organized by Medgar Evers College (MEC), Brooklyn and The City University of New York in New York (CUNY) recently concluded on July 8-11, 2019. The program offered an exciting and interactive opportunity for the organising institutions, leading New York City politicians, and a diverse group of successful business owners, entrepreneurs and non-profit & community leaders to come together to discuss the complex challenges in today's business environment. Speakers designed each topic targeting areas such as personal, organizational and community growth, and engaged the students of the program in real life applications, experiences and processes. The diversity in the room could not be missed, as it reflected the program's goal of reaching mostly minority-owned organisations. It drew participation from a cross section of people from the US including Florida andMinnesota; with various ethnic backgrounds represented including African/Caucasian-American, Nigeria, Cameroon, Ghana, Jamaica, Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago, Haiti, Russia, Japan etc. Beyond the certificates presented at the end of the program, the inaugural students left with a wealth of knowledge from the experiences shared, as well as a rich network of some positively-driven individuals, whose collaborative potentials are set to make a difference in their various communities. For more info, www.mec.cuny.edu
Oyiza Adaba is a journalist with Africa-Related
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INSTALLATION: El Anatsui's Triumphant Scale Munich
he installation process of the largest ever mounted on Anatsui’s work took months and occupied the museum’s entire East Wing and encompass every media in the artist’s prodigious fifty-year career.
Installation Process of El Anatsui's Triumphant Scale at Haus der Kunst.
Munich, Germany
Words: Oyiza Adaba and Haus der Kunst
Photos: Africa-Related
The installation process of the largest ever mounted on Anatsui’s work took months and occupied the museum’s entire East Wing and encompass every media in the artist’s prodigious fifty-year career.
As the exhibition title suggests, the survey focuses on the triumphant and monumental quality of Anatsui’s sculptures, with the signature bottle-cap series developed over the last two decades situated at the core of the presentation.
Along with these ambitious works, with their imposing physical presence and dazzling colors, the exhibition also includes wood sculptures and wall reliefs spanning the mid-1970s to the late 1990s; ceramic sculptures of the late 1970s; as well as drawings, prints, and books.
In addition, Anatsui created several new sculptures responding to the sweeping scale of the museum’s galleries, including 'Rising Sea', 'Logoligi Logarithm' and the grand outdoor work on the building’s monumental façade titled 'Second Wave'.
COMING SOON
www.elanatsuithefilm.com
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SEUN KUTI & Egypt 80 @ Sony Hall NYC
Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 thrilled in the chill of winter at Sony Hall in Times Square.
WORDS: OYIZA ADABA
PHOTOS: JOHN OKO-NYAKU
NEW YORK, NY
Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 thrilled in the chill of winter at Sony Hall in Times Square. Fresh from his 2019 Grammy nomination in the Best World Music Album category for his album Black Times, the last born of the Afrobeat legend, Fela Anikulakpo-Kuti performed tracks from the album, while interjecting and keeping audience engaged with the usual commentary on politics, governance and world affairs. Backstage though, was the typical reunion of an eclectic array of fans and friends from the tri-state area, as the band heads to their next gig in Washington D.C.
OYIZA ADABA IS A JOURNALIST & PRODUCER @AFRICARELATED
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