Attack on U.S. Convoy in Nigeria
Unknown assailants yesterday attacked a convoy of two U.S. government vehicles in the Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra state, Nigeria. The convoy was carrying nine Nigerian nationals: five employees of the U.S. Mission to Nigeria and four members of the Nigeria Police Force.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State
May 17, 2023
Unknown assailants yesterday attacked a convoy of two U.S. government vehicles in the Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra state, Nigeria. The convoy was carrying nine Nigerian nationals: five employees of the U.S. Mission to Nigeria and four members of the Nigeria Police Force. They were traveling in advance of a planned visit by U.S. Mission personnel to a U.S.-funded flood response project in Anambra.
We do not yet know the motive for the attack, but we have no indications at this time that it was targeted against our Mission. The assailants killed at least four members of the convoy, and U.S. Mission personnel are working urgently with Nigerian counterparts to ascertain the location and condition of the members of the convoy who are unaccounted for.
We condemn in the strongest terms this attack. We will work closely with our Nigerian law enforcement colleagues in seeking to bring those responsible to justice.
The United States has no greater priority than the safety and security of our personnel. We express our heartfelt condolences to the families of those killed in the attack, and pledge to do everything possible to safely recover those who remain missing. We deeply value our relationship with our Locally Employed Staff and our partnership with Nigeria.
The United States reaffirms its commitment to the people of Nigeria to assist in the fight against violence and insecurity.
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Secretary Blinken’s Call with Nigerian President-elect Tinubu
Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke this morning with Nigerian President-elect Bola Ahmed Tinubu to emphasize his continued commitment to further strengthening the U.S.-Nigeria relationship with the incoming administration.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State
May 16, 2023
Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke this morning with Nigerian President-elect Bola Ahmed Tinubu to emphasize his continued commitment to further strengthening the U.S.-Nigeria relationship with the incoming administration. The Secretary noted that the U.S.-Nigeria partnership is built on shared interests and strong people-to-people ties and that those links should continue to strengthen under President-elect Tinubu’s tenure. Secretary Blinken and President-elect Tinubu discussed the importance of inclusive leadership that represents all Nigerians, continued comprehensive security cooperation, and reforms to support economic growth.
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Bronx Council on the Arts - Grants Award Celebration Show How Philanthropy Supports Community Art
The BCA is a non-profit organization. Just like all the other art cooperatives in New York City's five boroughs, it raises money and provides a venue for the borough's resident artists to flourish. On May 9th, more than 50 people gathered to witness artists and community leaders receive grant funding.
By Oyiza Adaba with Fortune EhiwayAs
Photo: Africa-Related
The Bronx Council on the Arts is a place where community arts and philanthropy connect
The BCA is a non-profit organization. Just like all the other art cooperatives in New York City's five boroughs, it raises money and provides a venue for the borough's resident artists to flourish. The Council’s calendar of activities is a clear testament to the residents artistics resources.
On May 9th more than 50 people gathered to witness artists and community leaders receive grant funding at an in-person celebration that was held at the BCA headquarters in the Bronx's East Tremont district. Amid light refreshments and a performance by a Japanese American artist who combined American culture with Japanese art; grantees, jury members, and officials from the art financing and community art space also took the opportunity to network.
Programs Manager, Dionne Dauxy, presented 45 awards totaling about 60,000 USD to selected candidates. They include individuals and groups who support art in a variety of disciplines, such as music, visual arts, art education/promotion, film, poetry, etc.
BCA Executive Director Viviana Bianci spoke on the value of the council's work in raising finances and public awareness while decrying the ongoing financial cuts to the arts. Jazz saxophonist and jury member Mr. Tyrone Brikett described the ceremony as "a rewarding experience for any artist".
A number of the grant recipients that Africa-Related spoke with commended the initiative and the impact of the funds. Blanka Amezkua, a Mexican-American contemporary artist who runs AAA3A believes artists in the Bronx are the most overlooked. Her grant money will ensure she continues her home-based artist-run project which offers food, dialogue, workshops and art.
More than 50 people gathered to witness artists and community leaders receive grant funding at the BCA headquarters in the Bronx's East Tremont district.
During the 2023 edition of iRep, the annual documentary festival in Nigeria, which had its focus on documenting underserved stories, filmmakers and art promoters alike all cited the lack of funding as the major challenge in any art space.
Because of this, many projects fizzle out or get stuck for a very long time. Organizations like the Bronx Council on the Art have fantastic models to follow in a time when creators must manage their business affairs while maintaining their creative abilities.
For more information, visit bronxarts.org
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VIDEO - Q & A With Moussa Sène Absa At NYAFF On Film Xalé
Following the screening of Xalé, a drama focused on women, Prof. Mamadou Diouf of Columbia University moderated a Q & A that got director Moussa Sène Absa discussing the qualities that make him an outstanding filmmaker.
Africa-Related New York
““We need to change the way we educate...””
Q & A With Moussa Sène Absa At 30th New York African Film Festival On Women-focused Film Xalé. He spoke in detail about his production process, inspirations, music scoring, managing budgets, community engagement, storytelling techniques, his overall love for Africa, and how it all plays into the final output.
Video by Africa-Related
The New York African Film Festival is one of the longest running film festivals in the United States. For Opening Night and to celebrate its 30th anniversary, The New York African Film Festival (NYAFF) in partnership with The Film at Lincoln Center (FLC) premiered Xalé, the third film in Senegalese Director Moussa Sène Absa’s trilogy.
Following the screening of Xalé, a drama focused on women, Prof. Mamadou Diouf of Columbia University moderated a Q & A that got director Moussa Sène Absa discussing the qualities that make him an outstanding filmmaker.
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TAKING STEPS TO IMPOSE VISA RESTRICTIONS ON INDIVIDUALS INVOLVED IN UNDERMINING NIGERIA'S DEMOCRATIC PROCESS
Taking Steps to Impose Visa Restrictions on Individuals Involved in Undermining the Democratic Process During Nigeria’s 2023 Elections Cycle
Press Statement by Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State
Taking Steps to Impose Visa Restrictions on Individuals Involved in Undermining the Democratic Process During Nigeria’s 2023 Elections Cycle
The United States is committed to supporting and advancing democracy in Nigeria and around the world. Today, I am announcing that we have taken steps to impose visa restrictions on specific individuals in Nigeria for undermining the democratic process during Nigeria’s 2023 elections cycle. These actions are specific to certain individuals and are not directed at the Nigerian people or the Government of Nigeria as a whole.
Under Section 212(a)(3)C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, these individuals will be subject to restrictions on visas to the United States under a policy covering those believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining democracy. These individuals have been involved in intimidation of voters through threats and physical violence, the manipulation of vote results, and other activity that undermines Nigeria’s democratic process.
The decision to take steps to impose visa restrictions reflects the continued commitment of the United States to support Nigerian aspirations to strengthen democracy and the rule of law.
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Xalé Opens The 30th New York African Film Festival
The New York African Film Festival (NYAFF) is one of the longest running film festivals in the United States. For Opening Night and to celebrate its 30th anniversary, the NYAFF in partnership with The Film at Lincoln Center (FLC) premiered Xalé, the third film in Senegalese Director Moussa Sène Absa’s trilogy.
By Oyiza Adaba, Africa-Related New York
Photo by Africa-Related
““Culture Is Like A Strong Army””
The New York African Film Festival (NYAFF) is one of the longest running film festivals in the United States. For Opening Night and to celebrate its 30th anniversary, the NYAFF in partnership with The Film at Lincoln Center (FLC) premiered Xalé, the third film in Senegalese Director Moussa Sène Absa’s trilogy.
For movie lovers, it is a real treat, as the week-long festival ending on June 1st is hosting an incredible lineup of events showcasing African films at various landmarks locations in the city including FLC, Maysles Documentary Center, and Brooklyn Academy of Music.
The festival’s roster is graced with directors and producers representing 50 films from 25 countries. All week long, fans can count on enjoying close proximity to the talented African film industry names like Guy Kazadi, Ery Claver, Tunde Kelani, Nolitha Mkulisi, Yeelen Cohen, Ifeyinwa Arinze, Florence Ayisi, Fatou Cisse, Alex Rappoport, and a host of others
Prof. Mamadou Diouf of Columbia University moderated the Q & A with director Moussa Sène Absa. Photo by Africa-Related
Following the screening of Xalé, a drama focused on women, Prof. Mamadou Diouf of Columbia University moderated a Q & A that got director Moussa Sène Absa discussing the qualities that make him an outstanding filmmaker. He spoke in detail about his production process, inspirations, music scoring, managing budgets, community engagement, storytelling techniques, his overall love for Africa, and how it all plays into the final output.
Video: Highlights of the 30th New York African Film Festival at Film at Lincoln Center. Video by Africa-Related
Mahen Bonetti, Executive Director NY African Film Festival. Photo by Oluwaseye Olusa
The New York African Film Festival was founded “to reflect on the myriad ways African and diaspora filmmakers have used the moving image to tell complex nuanced stories of cultural and aesthetic significance”.
In a chat with Africa-Related, Executive Director Mahen Bonetti attributed the festival’s growth over the years to collaborations and comradeship between creatives, which shows Africa’s deep-rooted stories are yet to be fully explored.
Opening Night: Photo Gallery
Films showing include Hyperlink, Employee of the Month, Cordelia, Ota Benga, A Daughter’s Tribute To Her Father, Den Muso, Know Your Place, Our Lady Of The Chinese Shop, and others. Ticket are available here
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Decolonizing African Royalty - The Art of Erasmus Onyishi
Marcos de Castro is a New York-based photographer who enjoys capturing cultural and natural elements in his works. His images put the viewer right in the midst of real people, places and experiences he is capturing.
by africa-related
Photos by Artist
Erasmus ONYISHI is a former student of the world renowned professor of Sculptor El Anatsui. He graduated from the University of Nigeria Nsukka and is the recipient of several awards including the Nigerian Breweries sponsored National Art Competition (NCA) in 2014. Like his artistic mentor, Onyishi continues to voice through his arts that nothing is neither waste nor to be wasted..
Decolonizing African Royalty by Erasmus Onyishi
AFRICAN MUSICIANS - Through the Lens of MARCOS DE CASTRO
Marcos de Castro is a New York-based photographer who enjoys capturing cultural and natural elements in his works. His images put the viewer right in the midst of real people, places and experiences he is capturing.
photos by Marcos de Castro
In this series, Africa-Related is given a rare opportunity to explore and publish from the archives of journalists, photographers and media colleagues across the world.
Marcos de Castro is a New York-based photographer who enjoys capturing cultural and natural elements in his works. His images put the viewer right in the midst of real people, places and experiences he is capturing. De Castro has photographed the Bahia Carnival in Brazil, Myanmar, Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam. Marcos describes his photography as "a truly fantastic journey and an amazing experience".
AFRICAN MUSICIANS - Through the Lens of MARCOS DE CASTRO
The photographs in this collection are of various performances across New York City featuring artists from Africa such as the late 'Queen' Of Saharan Song Khaira Arby, Vieux Farka Touré Malian guitarist and songwriter and son of the legendary Ali Farka Touré; the iconic Zimbabwean musician Oliver Mtukudzi who passed in 2019; the Grammy Award-winning Malian Wassoulou musician Oumou Sangare; and Seun Kuti, Afrobeat musician and son of Fela Anikulakpo-Kuti.
© Marcos de Castro
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REMARKS: World Press Freedom Day
On the 30th annual World Press Freedom Day, the United States extends our deep gratitude to the remarkable journalists and media professionals around the world whose work ensures the flow of information and ideas that form the lifeblood of free and open societies. Today we also reflect on the tremendous sacrifice paid by so many journalists in performing this noble vocation.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State
REMARKS: World Press Freedom Day
May 3, 2023
On the 30th annual World Press Freedom Day, the United States extends our deep gratitude to the remarkable journalists and media professionals around the world whose work ensures the flow of information and ideas that form the lifeblood of free and open societies. Today we also reflect on the tremendous sacrifice paid by so many journalists in performing this noble vocation.
Far too many governments use repression to silence free expression, including through reprisals against journalists for simply doing their jobs. We again call on Russian authorities to immediately release Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and all other journalists held for exercising freedom of expression.
Imprisonment is not the only threat reporters face. Journalists covering violent conflict and corruption are subjected to intimidation and abduction, often perpetrated with impunity. Elsewhere, journalists face discrimination, censorship, and weaponized justice systems. Governments around the world have used various tools of repression to force media outlets to close.
On this World Press Freedom Day, we rededicate ourselves to protecting press freedom at home and promoting it across the globe.
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GHANAIAN SCULPTOR EL ANATSUI HONORED AT TIME100 MOST INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE GALA IN NEW YORK
Time100 is a yearly event that selects and brings together prominent, history-making, global figures. Adoring fans lined the streets leading up to the Jazz at Lincoln Center, where Time Magazine was hosting a gala in honor of Time100 Most Influential People.
By Oyiza Adaba, New York
April 28, 2023
“Trust has never been more important, and it speaks to both our legacy and our future”
Adoring fans lined the streets leading up to the Jazz at Lincoln Center, where Time Magazine was hosting a gala in honor of Time100 Most Influential People.
Notable names were included in this year’s list of categories, which were: Artists, Icons, Pioneers, Leaders, Titans and Innovators. .Actress Jessica Collidge hosted and joked, "Think of how many followers you could get", while calling for further collaboration among honorees. American rapper and “pioneer” honoree, Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini, aka Doja Cat, thrilled the 300 plus guests with her performance.
Among the prominent names at the event were Salma Hayek Pinault, Michael B. Jordan, Keegan-Michael Key, Austin Butler and Angela Bassett. Veteran Director Steven Spielberg received the Impact Award, and credited Time Magazine's longevity - since the first issue on March 3, 1923 - to keeping up with current issues. The plaque was presented to him by two former child stars from his films, Drew Barrymore and Ke Huy Quan
Africa was well represented on the list with Ghanaian sculptor, El Anatsui - one of the most respected, international contemporary artists - leading the way. Other game changers from the continent were Wangira Mathai, a Kenyan environmentalist and activist, VP/Regional Director World Resources Institute; Dimie Ogoina, a Nigerian infectious disease, physician-scientist at Niger Delta University and President of the Nigerian Infectious Diseases Society; Nigerian politician and President-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Elizabeth Maruma Mrema, the Tanzanian biodiversity leader and Cameroonian soccer player, Kylian Mbappé.
In an interview with El Anatsui, an Emeritus Professor of Sculpture, he fondly recalled the early years of his career, when he was questioned about what he could possibly do in art. He described this year’s recognition from Time magazine as "quite significant, indicating that I have been able to make an impact and do something with my art”.
Jazz at Lincoln Center is a prestigious upscale venue in New York City that has hosted Jazz and Blues greats, such as Miles Davis, Wes Montgomery, Ella Fitzgerald, Wayne Shorter, BB King, Charles Mingus, Billie Holiday, and Sarah Vaughn.
Time100 is a yearly event that selects and brings together prominent, history-making, global figures. The final list of these influential individuals is exclusively chosen by Time’s editors, with nominations coming from the Time 100 alumni and the magazine's international writing staff. The ceremony has been held annually since 2004.
Photo Highlights: Photos: Africa-Related/elanatsui.art
See complete list: Time100 Most Influential People 2023
ARTISTS
• Michael B. Jordan
• Drew Barrymore
• Ali Wong
• Austin Butler
• Aubrey Plaza
• Rian Johnson
• Salma Hayek Pinault
• Zoe Saldaña
• Judy Blume
• Colin Farrell
• Lea Michele
• Simone Leigh
• Wolfgang Tillmans
• Suzan-Lori Parks
• Neil Gaiman
• Shervin Hajipour
• El Anatsui
• Colleen Hoover
• Steve Lacy
ICONS
• Jennifer Coolidge
• Ke Huy Quan
• Sara Mardini and Yusra Mardini
• Shah Rukh Khan
• Pedro Pascal
• Brittney Griner
• King Charles
• Salman Rushdie
• RowVaughn Wells
• Tracie D. Hall
• Peng Lifa
• Shannon Watts
• Haluk Levent
• Imara Jones
• Yvon Chouinard
PIONEERS
• Doja Cat
• Mikaela Shiffrin
• Bella Hadid
• Sam Altman
• Niloofar Hamedi and Elaheh Mohammadi
• Thom Browne
• S.S. Rajamouli
• MrBeast
• Elizabeth Maruma Mrema
• Britney Schmidt and Peter Davis
• Sam Rivera
• Robin Zeng
• Edward Reynolds
• Margaret Mitchell
LEADERS
• Olena Zelenska
• Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva
• Hakeem Jeffries
• Evan Gershkovich
• Janet Yellen
• Sherry Rehman
• Mitch McConnell
• Anthony Albanese
• Margrethe Vestager
• Joe Biden
• Samuel Alito
• Gustavo Petro
• Gina Raimondo
• Oleksandra Matviichuk
• Fumio Kishida
• Cindy McCain
• María Herrera Magdaleno
• Olaf Scholz
• Bola Ahmed Tinubu
• Min Aung Hlaing
TITANS
• Angela Bassett
• Laurene Powell Jobs
• Lionel Messi
• Padma Lakshmi
• Johan Rockstrom
• Beyoncé
• Patrick Mahomes II
• Elon Musk
• Gina Prince-Bythewood
• Karen Lynch
• Shou Zi Chew
• Ozlem Tureci and Ugur Sahin
• Deborah Lipstadt
INNOVATORS
• Bob Iger
• Sarah Kate Ellis
• Kylian Mbappé
• Natasha Lyonne
• Monica Simpson
• Nathan Fielder
• Wanjira Mathai
• Hidetaka Miyazaki
• Jerrod Carmichael
• Catherine Coleman Flowers
• Sean Sherman
• Iga Swiatek
• Kate Orff
• Dimie Ogoina
• Andrea Kritcher
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Samantha Power Travels to New York For UNESCO’s World Press Freedom Day 30th Anniversary Event
On May 2, Administrator Samantha Power will travel to New York to attend the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) World Press Freedom Day 30th Anniversary event at the UN General Assembly Hall.
UNITED STATES AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Office of Press Relations
MEDIA ADVISORY
Administrator Samantha Power Travels to New York For UNESCO’s World Press Freedom Day 30th Anniversary Event
April 27, 2023
On May 2, Administrator Samantha Power will travel to New York to attend the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) World Press Freedom Day 30th Anniversary event at the UN General Assembly Hall.
During the event, Administrator Power will deliver a keynote address that will focus on ways to protect journalists from the increased safety, financial, and legal threats they face today and how USAID is working to support and protect free press around the world.
WHEN: Tuesday, May 2 at 4:30 p.m. EDT
WHERE: UN General Assembly Hall, Headquarters of the United Nations, 46th St & 1st Ave, New York, NY 10017
WATCH: A livestream of the remarks will be available here.
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CULTURAL EXCHANGE At The New York French American Charter School
Storytelling and weaving lessons from Nigeria to New York. Africa-Related visited the The New York French American Charter School, a tuition free bilingual charter school located in an iconic 120th Street neighborhood in Harlem, New York.
OYIZA ADABA Africa-Related, NEW YORK
and Rosemary Onubaiye, Okene nigeria
Storytelling and Weaving Lessons from Nigeria to New York
Africa-Related visited the The New York French American Charter School, a tuition free bilingual charter school located in an iconic 120th Street neighborhood in Harlem, New York.
The 6:30 am calm in the quiet street and hallways before the bustle of drop offs was quite evident, The hallways filled up quickly, and by 8:00 AM, children from different parts of the world - every continent easily represented from pre kindergarten through to eighth grade - were seated in class.
The NYFACS, which operates with semi-public semi-private status (Charter School) fosters a culture of inclusion and through its rigorous curriculum, students are provided the skills and learning experiences for both academic and life achievements.
Oyiza Adaba reading TITINKORI FOLKTALES FROM EBIRALAND to the second graders at NYFACS
Art teacher, musician and friend Mr. Daniel Villeneuve invited me to spend a morning with the second graders as part of a cultural exchange initiative to promote art, education and artistic children. I was honored to teach about two distinct cultures in Ebiraland -TITINKORI storytelling and ITINOCHI - cloth weaving. and our work with fellow students at St. John Bosco Comprehensive Secondary School, Okene Kogi State. Nigeria
After attentively listening to The Tortoise and The Hare, we exchanged ideas on lessons and morals, then proceeded to learn more about weaving of the Ebira woven cloth, which they happily modelled. The drawings and illustrations from participating schools will be published in an upcoming book, with part proceeds going to charities.
Mr. Bertrand Tchoumi, the ever-welcoming director said the school is continuously expanding and in 2022 its second location at 2108-2118 Adam Clayton Powell Jr Boulevard, close to the legendary Apollo Theatre. The famous building known as Alhambra Hall, was a historical ballroom that hosted great jazz legends like Billie Holiday and Bessie Smith.
The school prides itself with ensuring that its work reflects in the full diversity of the district community school district, and providing the students with added opportunities for learning from each other.
Students are taught subjects like visual arts, music appreciation, talent development, PE, life skills etc in French and English.
‘Titinkori’ Project
This is a new Story/Picture/Audio Book is a collection of stories about the Ebira people located in Okene Kogi State, central Nigeria curated by Oyiza Adaba. The project features a selection of over 20 folktales, stories, songs, parables etc told by a respected crop of elders and storytellers from Ebiraland. They include Mallam Ibrahim Abdulkadir Ogirima, Mr. Sanni Aminu Atima (Ohida) and HRH Samuel Adai Onimisi (Obobanyi of Ihima). Some of the stories are Adeji (The Hare), The Farmer and the Bird (Okasime), The Farmer and his Disobedient Son, The Poor Widow, Her Son and The Hunter etc. Learn more about 'Titinkori' here
Students at St. John Bosco Comprehensive Secondary School, Okene Kogi State Nigeria during a story-telling class delivered by Mallam Ibrahim Abdulkadir Ogirima. Photo: Africa-Related
Historian: Son of late Yusuf Utohu, a male weaver in Ebiraland
The project is seeking young Onabolus and Antubams globally schools and art classes, to accompany each story with their drawings and illustrations. The artistically gifted children are selected from schools in Okene, Lagos, Abuja, and New York.
The final work products include a published book, audiobook, music, and exhibitions to showcase artworks, publicity/launch events, community service and charity donations.
This project's objectives are documenting and preserving tradition, teaching history, encouraging young artistic talent and giving back to the community;and is made possible by Africa-Related in partnership with Ita'i Our Cloth and Tom Adaba Legacy Project.
Learn more about 'Titinkori' here:
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Public Art Competition Offers Global Artists €750,000
Berlin Global Village is offering a mouth watering figure to artists for ideas for a Decolonial Memorial, as part of a Public Art Contest that started in March. Registration closes on May 7, 2023
by Africa-Related, NEW YORK
€750,000 Euros is up for grabs in the "Decolonial Memorial" Art Competition.
Berlin Global Village is offering a mouth watering figure to artists for ideas for a Decolonial Memorial, as part of a Public Art Contest that started in March.
Registration closes on May 7, 2023
Watch the video to learn how to submit your application
Founder and Director Michael Küppers-Adebisi says the competition is open to multi-media artists that have “an idea that is beyond the western concept of nation” and one that will “illuminate the spiritual being”.
Twenty artists will be selected from the global entries to receive 4000 Euros each, to turn their ideas into project proposals. Following this, one winner will be chosen. The winning project will be transferred into the actual Decolonial Monument, and installed in between building's headquarters in Berlin.
Prominent Artist/Art historian Chika Okeke-Agulu and Walter Mignolo Argentine semiotician and professor at Duke University are slated to be competition judges.
Berlin Global Village is a body made up of 50 global non-governmental organizations that work to bring together diverse approaches on making societal changes. It supports small structures and initiative spaces and fosters discourse on Decolonial and other topics.
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Ozioma Onuzulike Expo Chicago Booth 374
Kó is pleased to debut at Expo Chicago, the international exposition of contemporary and modern art, in Chicago, Illinois. This presentation will showcase seven new ceramic artworks by Ozioma Onuzulike, featured in the Exposure section.
Ozioma Onuzulike Expo Chicago Booth 374
April 13-16, 2023
By AFRICA-RELATED
VIP Preview: April 13, 12-9 PM
Opening Night: April 13, 6-9 PM
* By Invitation
Public Days:
Friday, April 14, 11 AM-7 PM
Saturday, April 15, 11 AM-7 PM
Sunday, April 16, 11 AM-6 PM
Navy Pier, Festival Hall, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, Illinois
Kó is pleased to debut at Expo Chicago, the international exposition of contemporary and modern art, in Chicago, Illinois. This presentation will showcase seven new ceramic artworks by Ozioma Onuzulike, featured in the Exposure section.
Ozioma Onuzulike (b. 1972, Achi, Enugu State, Nigeria) creates large-scale ceramic installations that hang like tapestries, formed from thousands of ceramic palm kernel beads, terracotta, copper rings, and natural shells. He explores the aesthetic, symbolic and metaphorical nature of the clay working process – pounding, crushing, hammering, wedging, grinding, cutting, pinching, punching, perforating, burning, and firing. His recent work is inspired by yam tubers, palm kernel shells and honeycombs which he mass-produces in terracotta and weaves together in often laborious processes. He configures a multiplicity of the individual units in ways that call attention to pressing socio-political and environmental issues, such as reckless politics, bad governance, imperialism, terrorism and climate change. Adopting the laborious process of firing the materials through multiple kilns, each firing creates unique colors and textures in transforming the clay, oxides, glazes and recycled glass.
Hailing from Nigeria’s prestigious Nsukka School in Southeastern Nigeria, his work has become synonymous with Nsukka’s experimental art department which he has led, known for its conceptual and material processes. An important center for art education in Nigeria, the art department at Nsukka has been spearheaded by luminaries such as Nigerian modernists Uche Okeke and Chike Aniakor in the early 1970s, and has subsequently been led by pioneering artists including Obiora Udechukwu and El Anatsui, stressing the exploration of ideas, materials and forms sourced from the environment.
Ozioma Onuzulike graduated First Class from the Department of Fine and Applied Arts, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he now serves as Director of the Institute of African Studies. His solo exhibition, Seed Yams of Our Land, was held at the Centre for Contemporary Art (CCA), Lagos, Nigeria, in 2019, along with a presentation of his poetry collection of the same title also published by the CCA. kó presented Onuzulike’s exhibition, The Way We Are, in 2021. His works were included in [Re:]Entanglements: Colonial Collections in Decolonial Times at the Museum of Archeology and Anthropology, University of Cambridge, UK. His exhibition, Strings the Length of Our Palm’s Seal, was held at Chertlüdde, Berlin, in 2022. His work has been included in recent presentations at The Armory Show, 1-54 London, Artgenève and Zonamaco. Onuzulike is a fellow of the Civitella Ranieri Centre, Umbertide, Perugia, Italy, where he undertook a residency under the UNESCO-ASCHBERG Bursary for Artists, and an alumnus of the Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture, Maine, USA. His work is in the permanent collection of the Museum of Anthropology and Archeology, University of Cambridge, Princeton University Art Museum, Hudson Valley Museum of Contemporary Art, New York, and the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art, Lagos.
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Chibok Girls: 9 Years On
As we approach the tragic ninth anniversary of the abduction of 276 schoolgirls from Government Secondary School, Chibok in Borno State – April 14, 2014 – our hearts remain broken at the failure to close this shameful chapter in our country’s history as promised by President Muhammadu Buhari in his address to the nation in 2015 and various times subsequently.
Image credit: MPAC Nigeria
Chibok Girls: 9 Years On
April 13, 2023
By AFRICA-RELATED
““O God of creation, direct our noble cause. Guide our leaders right; help our youth the truth to know.””
#BringBackOurGirls Demands Action & Accountability as Buhari's Administration Ends
““We can not claim to have defeated Boko Haram without rescuing the Chibok girls and all other innocent persons held hostage by insurgents.””
As we approach the tragic ninth anniversary of the abduction of 276 schoolgirls from Government Secondary School, Chibok in Borno State – April 14, 2014 – our hearts remain broken at the failure to close this shameful chapter in our country’s history as promised by President Muhammadu Buhari in his address to the nation in 2015 and various times subsequently.
The last report we received on the status of the Chibok Girls in October 2022 is as follows:
● 276 Abducted
● 57 Escaped
● 107 Released
● 16 Rescued (by the Military)
● 96 Still Missing
We are equally distressed to learn that after a successful campaign by our gallant military in the last two years when they liberated thousands of people including over 12 girls – now women – and handed them over to the Borno State Government, our daughters and sisters remain in the custody of the State and have not been properly reunited with their families or back in control of their lives now that they are out of the hands of the terrorists. Have our girls escaped one form of captivity only to spend 6 months to one and a half years in a different form of captivity? What crime have they committed? Why are survivors of unimaginable trauma being treated this way?
We appeal and demand that the President fulfils his promise to his daughters from Chibok, to Leah Sharibu, his daughter from Dapchi and other victims of insurgency, bandits and kidnappers and rescue them before his term of office ends on May 29, 2023. The rescue and rehabilitation of our daughters whose education was interrupted and the restoration of peace in their communities will be an undeniable legacy of President Buhari’s administration.
Our Nine Demands at 9 years
1. Bring back our girls before May 29, 2023. A push to finally defeat Boko Haram, ISWAP, and liberate all our citizens
2. Accountability from the Borno State Government. A full report and debriefing for the parents on the status, academic plans and wishes of the rescued girls, women and children in their custody.
3. Provide closure for parents on the fate of their daughters who they have reason to believe are dead.
4. Psycho-social support for Chibok and other conflict-affected families of abducted students to address the trauma to families; equipping and completion of their education, shelter, and empowerment to earn a living.
5. Equip and motivate the police and armed forces and see to their welfare and proper care for the families of officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.
6. Reinvest in the Victims Support Fund (VSF) to care for the practical needs of all returned and rescued girls, siblings and family members of girls. The federal government has seemingly abandoned VSF to the management of one generous citizen.
7. Public statement on the Missing Persons Register and immediate reopening of a properly resourced and staffed Missing Persons Desk at the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
8. Report on the coordinated provision of security for schools – primary, secondary, and higher education at local, state and federal levels.
9. Status report on the Safe Schools Initiative and adequate financing to ensure its effectiveness.
BBOG will commemorate 9 years since the abduction as follows:
Friday 14th April, 4:30pm – 5:30pm WAT, Unity Fountain, Abuja
Chibok Community (KADA) Media Conference
Saturday 15th April, 12:00pm – 2:00pm WAT | Falomo Roundabout, Ikoyi, Lagos
Engagement with representatives
Global Voices of BBOG, Interfaith Prayers & Roll Call of the Missing
#BringBackOurGirls | #9YearsTooLong | #UntilAllAreFree | #HopeEndures
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List of National Museums in Nigeria
The National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) is an offshoot of a department in the then Federal Ministry of Works that was established in 1953. It was transferred to the Federal Ministry of information as the Department of Antiquities by ordinance 17 of the Colonial Government of 1953.
The National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) is Nigeria’s governing body that was “stablished to manage the collection, documentation, conservation and presentation of the National cultural properties to the public for the purposes of education, enlightenment and entertainment”.
By AFRICA-RELATED
List of National Museums in Nigeria
How many have you visited?
1
National Commission for Museums and Monuments, Abuja
Office of Head of Service,
Federal Secretariat Complex,
Block C, First Floor, Shehu Shagari Way, Abuja FCT.
PMB, 171, Garki – Abuja
2
National Museum of Colonial History, Aba
No. 6 Ikot Ekpene Road
P.M.B. 7116 Aba,
Abia State.
3
National Museum, Abakaliki
No. 6 St. Patrick Road,
Kiriri, Abakaliki
Ebonyi State.
4
National Museum,
Abeokuta
Baptist Girls College, Idi-Aba, P.M.B. 2004 Abeokuta
Ogun State
5
National Museum,
Akure
Opposite Post Office
Oba Adesida Road, P.M.B 444
Akure, Ondo
6
National Museum,
Asaba
Mungo House Park,
P.M.B 95071
Asaba, Delta State.
7
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Mausoleum, Bauchi
Kofar Ran Road
Bauchi, Bauchi State
8
National Museum, Benin
Ring Road, Benin City
P.M.B. 1115, Benin City
Edo State
9
Rock Art Interpretive Centre, Birnin- Kudu
Kano-Bauchi Road
Birnin Kudu, Jigawa State
10
National Museum,
Calabar
Ekpo Eyo Drive, P.M.B. 1180, Calabar, Cross River State
11
Slave History Museum, Calabar
Marina Resort,
P.M.B. 1180 Calabar, CRS
12
National Museum, Damaturu
Opposite Ben Kadio Housing Estate, Behind Cultural Centre, Maiduguri Road
Damaturu, Yobe State
13
National Museum of Unity, Enugu
65 Abakaliki Road
P.M.B. 1285, G.R.A, Enugu
14
National Museum,
Esie
P.M.B. 301, Esie
Kwara State
15
National Museum Gombe
Gombe Federal Secretariat Complex,
Room 289-294 2nd Floor,
Gombe City Centre, Gombe State.
16
National Museum,
Hong
Local Govt. Secretariat Complex, P.M.B. 2262,
Hong, Adamawa State
17
Institute of Archaeology & Museum Studies (I.A.M.S)
Opposite Central Bank Parking Space,
P.M.B 2031
Jos, Plateau State.
18
National Museum of Unity, Ibadan
Alesinloye Area, P.M.B. 5524,
Ibadan, Oyo State
19
National Museum ICT Centre, Oko Surulere
National Museum, Oko Surulere, Oko
P.O.Box 1706
Oko, Ogbomosho
Oyo State.
20
National Museum,
Igbo-Ukwu
Km. 4, Umudege Ezinifite Road,
Igbo-Ukwu, Aguata LGA, Anambra
21
National Museum,
Ile-Ife
Enuwa Square, P.M.B. 5515,
Enuwa Ile-Ife, Osun State
22
National Museum,
Ilorin
14 Abdulkadri Road, P.M.B. 1549,
GRA Ilorin, Kwara State
23
National Museum, Jalingo
Besides Taraba State Ministry of Culture and Tourism,
Opposite Governor’s Office, Jalingo
24
National Museum,
Jos
P.M.B. 2013,
Jos, Plateau State
25
National Museum, Kanta
Kanta Museum
P.M.B. 1001
Argungu
Kebbi State.
26
Museum of Traditional Nigerian Architecture (MOTNA), Jos
Opposite High Court
P.M.B. 2931, JosPlateau State
27
Zoological Garden, Jos
Opposite Jos Museum,
P.M.B. 2013, Jos Plateau State
28
Centre for Earth Construction Technology (CECTECH)
Opposite Jos Museum,
P.M.B. 2013 Jos, Plateau State
29
National Museum, Kaduna
No. 33, Ali Akilu Road
P.M.B. 2127, Kaduna, Kaduna State
30
Gidan Makama, Museum, Kano
Opposite Emir’s Palace, Kano city,
P.M.B. 2023, Kano State.
31
National Museum, Katsina
Kofa Uku, along Mohamadu Dikko Road,
P.M.B. 409, Katsina State.
32
National Museum, Koko
Nana Living Spring Museum,
Koko, Delta State
33
National Museum, Lafia
Behind Deputy Governor’s Office, Shendam Road,
P.M.B. 127, Lafia, Nasarawa State
34
National Museum, Lagos
King George V. Road, Onikan,
P.M.B. 12556, Lagos State.
35
National Museum of Colonial History, Lokoja
P.M.B. 1022, Lokoja,
Kogi State.
36
National Museum, Maiduguri
Custom Area, Maiduguri, P.M.B. 1029,
Maiduguri, Borno State
37
National Museum, Makurdi
GP 4, Ahmadu Bello, Opp. Deputy Governor’s Office,
P.M.B. 102294,
Makurdi,
Benue State.
38
National Museum, Minna
Federal Secretariat Complex, Minna,
P.M.B. 538, Minna, Niger State
39
National Museum, Nok
Kwoi-Jaba LGA, Kwoi,
P.M.B. 0006,
Kaduna State.
40
National Museum, Ogbomosho
No. 3 Museum Street
Off, Sunsun Road
P. O. Box 1602, Ogbomoso
Oyo State.
41
National Museum, Oron
P.M.B. 1004, Oron,
Akwa Ibom State
42
National Museum, Oshogbo
Ataoja’s Palace, P.M.B. 4376, Oshogbo
Osun State.
43
National Museum, Owerri
B65 Shell Camp, Off Orlu Road,
P.M.B. 1585, Owerri Imo State.
44
National Museum, Owo
Olowo’s Palace, Owo,
P.M.B. 1003, Owo,
Ondo State
45
National Museum, Oyo
No.1 Palace Road,
Aafin Oyo,
Oyo State
46
National Museum, Port Harcourt
Near No. 2 Hairle Street, Old GRA, Opp Delta Hotel,
P.M.B. 5766, Port Harcourt,
Rivers State.
47
National Museum, Sokoto
Federal Secretariat Complex, Sokoto,
P.M.B. 2367, Sokoto, Sokoto State.
48
Interpretation Centre, Sukur
Mubi-Maiduguri Road, Sukur,
P.M.B. 06, Madagali Local Government,
Adamawa State.
49
National War Museum, Umuahia
War Museum Road, Ebite-Amafor, Isingwu by Ugwunchara,
P.M.B. 7074, Umuahia, Abia State.
50
National Museum, Uyo
Ring Road II, Aka Offot (Behind Ibom Hall), P.M.B. 1109,
Uyo,
Akwa Ibom State.
51
National Museum, Yenagoa
Ijaw House
Sani Abacha Express Way,
Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
52
National Museum, Yola
No. 2 Mohammed, Tukur Road, Off Ahmadu Bello Way (Opposite Army Command Primary School), Jimeta, P.M.B. 2262, Jimeta-Yola, Adamawa State.
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Press Release: Outcomes of the 52nd Session of the UN Human Rights Council
As we mark the 75thanniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the 30thanniversary of the Vienna Declaration and Program of Action this year, the United States will continue to place its commitment to multilateral engagement and human rights at the center of U.S. foreign policy.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of The Spokesperson
Outcomes of the 52nd Session of the UN Human Rights Council
April 4, 2023
As we mark the 75thanniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the 30thanniversary of the Vienna Declaration and Program of Action this year, the United States will continue to place its commitment to multilateral engagement and human rights at the center of U.S. foreign policy. At the UN Human Rights Council’s (HRC) 52nd session (February 27 – April 4), the United States worked with allies and civil society partners to ensure the Council’s work and outcomes reflect and reinforce the universal values, aspirations, and norms that have underpinned the UN system for decades. Our engagement focused on ensuring greater emphasis to pressing human rights concerns and building collective action and expanding capacity to address them.
During this session, the United States advanced human rights priorities, particularly those shining a spotlight on human rights situations in Belarus, Burma, and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), as well as on:
Renewing the mandate of the Commission of Inquiry (COI) on Ukraine: The United States worked with Ukraine and cross-regional partners to renew the mandate of the COI that was first created in March 2022 to investigate violations and abuses of human rights and violations of international humanitarian law in the context of Russia’s war against Ukraine. The COI has already provided critical, credible reporting, including finding that Russian authorities have committed war crimes such as the unlawful transfer and deportation of children. The United States was proud to co-sponsor the resolution to renew the COI’s mandate to help ensure the Commission can continue its work to analyze evidence and inform accountability efforts.
Renewing the mandate of the Commission of Human Rights in South Sudan: The United States is part of the core group for this resolution, and the Commission’s contributions to accountability and transitional justice are more important than ever, given ongoing serious human rights violations and the government’s two-year extension of its “transitional period” without achieving any concrete progress.
Renewing the mandate of the Special Rapporteur (SR) on the situation of human rights in Iran: The work of the SR is particularly important given the Iranian regime’s months of brutal acts of violence against peaceful protesters standing up for the rights of women and girls, as well as freedom of expression for the Iranian people.
Renewing the UN Commission of Inquiry (COI) on the situation of human rights in Syria: The COI continues to accurately document widespread violations and abuses of human rights in Syria perpetrated by the Assad regime and other parties to the conflict. The consistent and credible reporting is critical to countering disinformation and advancing accountability for atrocities committed. The United States is part of the core group and co-sponsored this resolution.
Promotion and Protection of Human Rights in Nicaragua: We supported a two-year mandate renewal of the Group of Experts on Human Rights for Nicaragua and will continue to bolster international community efforts to hold the Ortega-Murillo regime accountable for its human rights abuses and repression of civil society.
The United States also co-sponsored resolutions on Cooperation with Georgia, Freedom of religion or belief, Freedom of opinion and expression (including online), Realization in all countries of Economic, Social, and Cultural rights, Promoting Human Rights and Sustainable Development Goals, and Human rights and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals.
In addition, we co-sponsored resolutions that renewed the mandates for the special rapporteurs on human rights defenders, minority issues, human rights of migrants, sexual exploitation of children, contemporary forms of racism, torture, and the Independent Expert on Adequate Housing.
Agenda Item 7:The United States continues to oppose all action under the HRC’s Agenda Item 7, which unfairly singles out Israel. We voted against all resolutions that unjustifiably target Israel, including one under Agenda Item 2 on Accountability and Human Rights and three resolutions under Agenda Item 7.
Defending Civil Society: During this session, the United States stood united with members of civil society and defended their right to speak at the Council, irrespective of the topic. Human rights defenders and NGOs are critical to promoting and protecting human rights and we were dismayed to see multiple transnational repression attempts by certain states to silence their voices.
Joint Statements: In addition to leading a joint statement on behalf of the Freedom Online Coalition reiterating a shared commitment to promoting and protecting Internet freedom, the United States signed onto joint statements regarding International Women’s Day, Resonance of Thoughts and Values of Mahatma Gandhi in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Indigenous Human Rights Defenders, repression and the use of the death penalty in Iran, support for the UN Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture, women and girls in Afghanistan, SOGI (Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity) Group of Friends, Child Human Rights Defenders, Responsibility to Protect and the Role of Human Rights Defenders, Academic Freedom, countering disinformation, and Commemorating the International Day Against Racism, as well as the Human Rights situations in Haiti, Nicaragua, and Sri Lanka. The United States also supported multiple joint statements condemning Russia’s war against Ukraine, including joint statements focused on accountability, the findings of the COI on Ukraine, the war’s impact on children, and Russian authorities arbitrarily detaining Ukraine’s civilians, including Ukrainian mayors.
Across resolutions, joint statements, and interactive dialogues, the United States advanced language to increase equity and inclusion, including regarding women and girls in all their diversity, internally displaced persons, LGBTQI+ persons, persons with disabilities, indigenous persons, members of ethnic and religious minority groups, and members of other marginalized and vulnerable groups.
Side Events: The United States co-sponsored and participated in side events focused on accountability for international crimes and serious human rights violations in Belarus; political prisoners in Russia; Justice for Daesh Atrocities; several events on combatting antisemitism; Disability Support and Care Systems; Human Rights in the DPRK; Disability, Torture, and Recovery; countering disinformation; Role of Assisted Technology in the Promotion of Education; Gender-Based Violence against Women and LGBTQI+ Persons in Nicaragua; and Education in Afghanistan. The United States also co-sponsored multiple side events focused on Russia’s war against Ukraine and related human rights impacts and accountability efforts.
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CUTTING THE STORY SHORT: The Steady Rising of Ihunmehai Isaac
From a struggling accounting student to working on an Emmy-nominated project, Ihunmehai Isaac’s story is that of difficult struggles, dogged determination and rewarding triumphs.
OYIZA ADABA Africa-Related, NEW YORK
Contributor: Fortune Ehiwayas
From a struggling accounting student to working on an Emmy-nominated project, Ihunmehai Isaac’s story is that of difficult struggles, dogged determination and rewarding triumphs.
Ihunmehai Isaac: video editor determined to make a difference/Photo by Yolanda Hoskey
Ihunmehai Cynthia Isaac is a dynamic African storyteller from Edo State, Nigeria, whose profile as a video editor in the U.S. film industry is on a gradual rise.
Having studied accounting in Nigeria, Ihums, as she is popularly known, had grown increasingly conscious of her artistic side.
“I told myself that the only way to survive in a world as competitive as this is to change my career path to what I like.”
From taking simple snapshots, she started applying for work in television and radio stations in Nigeria. She eventually landed a professional course at the School of Media and Communication Pan-Atlantic University, which is a part of the prestigious Lagos Business School.
Her desire to tell authentic stories led her to study film and acquire specific industry-related skills. In 2018, she migrated to the United States to obtain a Master's degree in Media Management from The New School in New York.
During her studies, she co-hosted a podcast titled The Grad Life Uncut, where graduate students from different schools were interviewed about their different experiences in the graduate school ecosystem.
Ms. Isaac has participated in several projects including Shalini Kantayya's educational documentary, which was post-produced by The Dakoit Team entitled ‘Coded Bias’. This received an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Science and Tech Documentaries in September 2022. Others projects are ‘Freestlyed’, ‘Donut Kid’, a stand-up special called ‘The Ghost of Academic Future’, and ‘TikTok Boom’, a documentary on the impact of social media in today’s world and a special project achieved by passion and “very long hours”.
The role of the video editor is crucial to any production. While Wikipedia describes film or video editing as the process of ‘manipulation and arrangement of video shot used to structure and present all video’, Ihunmehai describes the job of a video editor as “demanding but tremendously gratifying”.
Ihunmehai Isaac/Photo by Yolanda Hoskey
Ihunmehai Isaac/Photo by Yolanda Hoskey
"Just picture a crowd of people viewing a movie you edited and laughing or reacting to it with the kind of emotion you expected. Observing that, having people respond favorably to your work, in my opinion, is simply the highest compliment you can receive."
As she continues to take on bigger projects, Ihunmehai Isaac's primary objective is to create narratives with strong emotional undertones that inspire and educate; treating subjects like life, love, education, women, mental health, social issues and entertainment. Her unique difference is to always have an underlying purpose, which is to add value.
IHUNMEHAI ISAAC on the SET of ‘Donut Kid’ and music video for kofo wonder iN NEW YORK
Film Works
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EBIRA WOMEN Are Changing The Face of Protests
The general dissatisfaction with the results of the recently concluded elections in Nigeria was has led to a slew of court cases and pockets of protests across the country where women’s voices are taking center stage.
By AFRICA-RELATED, Nigeria
Women protest in support of politician Natasha- Akpoti-Uduaghan in Ihima, Kogi State. Photo by Bayo Oluwaseyi
Women-Led Protests
March 28, 2023
The general dissatisfaction with the results of the recently concluded elections in Nigeria has led to a slew of court cases and pockets of protests across the country where women’s voices are taking center stage.
Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for Kogi Central Senatorial District in Kogi State who has rejected the results and petitioned INEC over the outcome of the Kogi Central senatorial elections held on February 25, 2023.
Photos by Bayo Oluwaseyi
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U.S VP Harris holds BiLat w/Ghana President, Visits Recording Studio and Attends State Banquet
On Monday, March 26th, Vice President Harris will have her first full day in Ghana, which will include a bilateral meeting with President Akufo-Addo. She will then visit Vibrate studio, a community recording studio for young creatives in Accra. And finally, she will attend a State Banquet hosted by President Akufo-Addo and First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo.
U.S. OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT
By Oyiza Adaba
On Monday, March 26th, Vice President Harris will have her first full day in Ghana, which will include a bilateral meeting with President Akufo-Addo. She will then visit Vibrate studio, a community recording studio for young creatives in Accra. And finally, she will attend a State Banquet hosted by President Akufo-Addo and First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo.
BILATERAL MEETING WITH PRESIDENT AKUFO-ADDO OF GHANA
Vice President Kamala Harris will meet with President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana at Jubilee House and affirm the strength of our bilateral relationship, and the long-standing ties between the American and Ghanaian people.
The Vice President and President Akufo-Addo will discuss a range of global and regional issues including: democracy, good governance, and human rights; regional security; long-term economic growth and macroeconomic stability; and our work together on the UN Security Council.
On democracy, good governance, and human rights, they will discuss efforts to stand up for democratic principles on the continent and our shared opposition to recent democratic backsliding.
On regional security, they will discuss the Sahel and efforts to promote stability, including through new U.S. funding for stabilization efforts.
On debt, the Vice President will re-affirm the U.S. position that all bilateral creditors should provide meaningful debt reduction and express support for Ghana’s engagement with the IMF. They will also discuss efforts to support long term economic growth and increase U.S. private sector investment.
The Vice President will thank President Akufo-Addo for his leadership in strengthening ties between Africa and the African Diaspora.
VISIT TO VIBRATE SPACE
Vice President Harris will visit Vibrate Space, a community recording studio for young creatives located at Freedom Skatepark in Accra, as part of her effort to engage directly with young people and highlight the dynamism and creativity taking place across the continent. There, she will tour the facility and meet with a group of musicians including up-and-coming artists that represent the new generation of Ghanaian and Ghanaian-American entertainers. Her visit will spotlight the growing creative economy and underscore the strong links between our nation’s artistic and diaspora communities. The Vice President will be joined by Actors Idris Elba and Sheryl Lee Ralph.
Vibrate opened in 2022 in partnership with Kendrick Lamar’s company pgLang, Spotify, and local sports NGO Surf Ghana. Vibrate aims to empower young people by equipping aspiring music entrepreneurs with the necessary tools to compete in the global music market.
Additional background on Vibrate Space and Ghanian music industry:
Vibrate runs a music business educational program that includes public workshops (called “masterclasses”) dedicated to acquiring hands-on skills like recording, mixing, mastering, and DJing to cater to the diverse needs of Ghana’s dynamic music industry. Previous masterclasses have attracted more than 200 people at each session to learn about live performances, songwriting, and producing from musicians from Nigeria, South Africa, and other parts of the continent.
Vibrate is located at Freedom Skatepark, Ghana’s first fully functioning skateboard park, which uses action sports as a driver for creative self-expression, social inclusion, and female empowerment.
Accra has developed a reputation as a music destination after attracting huge crowds to the Global Citizen Festival, Afronation, Afrochella, and the Black Star Line Festival between September 2022 and January 2023.
Kendrick Lamar chose to release his latest album in May 2022 while in Accra. Freedom Skatepark has drawn visits from well-known American artists traveling to Ghana, including Kendrick Lamar, Chance the Rapper, and Pharrell Williams, as well as partnerships with the late fashion designer Virgil Abloh and Vans.
STATE BANQUET
President Akufo-Addo will be a hosting a State Banquet in honor of the Vice President and Second Gentleman’s visit to Accra, Ghana. Approximately 300 guests, invited by the Ghanian government, will attend, including several dozen prominent members of the African Diaspora in the United States. Additional information on the guest list will be forthcoming.
____________________
Ernesto ‘Ernie’ Apreza
Office of the Vice President
Deputy Press Secretary
c: 202.881.8800 | e: ernesto.apreza@ovp.eop.gov