Remarks by APNSA Jake Sullivan at the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum

---

---

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 26, 2024

REMARKS BY NATIONAL SECURITY ADVISOR JAKE SULLIVAN
AT THE AFRICAN GROWTH AND OPPORTUNITY ACT (AGOA) FORUM

U.S. State Department
Washington, D.C.
 
(July 25, 2024)

“Seize this opportunity...”

— President William Jefferson Clinton

MR. SULLIVAN:  Well, thank you, Joy.  I will not tell you that story tonight.  I need, like, two or three drinks before I tell it.  So -- (laughter) --
 
And now I'm the one standing between you and the refreshments, so I will not try to speak for too long.
 
But I really did want to come over from the White House, on behalf of the President, to say: Thank you all for being here.  It's really great to be surrounded by so many longtime supporters of the U.S.-Africa partnership, from ministers to ambassadors, to colleagues from Congress who have come through over the course of the day, the private sector, and of course, civil society. 
 
And, you know, I just want to start by taking us back to almost exactly 25 years ago.  At that time, President Clinton was urging our nation to adopt AGOA, the African Growth and Opportunity Act.  And his argument was powerful.  It was persuasive.  It was, really, pretty simple.  He said, “Congress has a chance to pass a bill that can transform our relationship… for the better…based on mutual respect and mutual responsibility.”
 
And there was a senator at the time named Joe Biden, who seized on that chance.  And as Vice President, he continued to transform and grow our partnership for the betterment of all of our people.  And as President, he's tried to ensure that that partnership is grounded not only in mutual respect and responsibility, but also in mutual values and a common vision for the world.  And the impact has been considerable. 
 
At the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, the Biden-Harris administration committed to invest over $55 billion in Africa over three years, helping to elevate our partnership beyond development and security, to address global challenges together. 
 
And I'm proud to say, oftentimes you put out these big numbers and you kind of walk away from the summit.  We are 80 percent of the way there, well ahead of schedule, and Joe Biden intends to do what he has said he was going to do -- and not just hit that 80 billion [sic] -- $55 billion mark over three years, but go far beyond it. 
 
We've also helped close more than 500 new private sector deals, which have led to over $14 billion in two-way trade investment between the U.S. and African countries. 
 
And with the President's Emergency Plan for Adaptation and Resilience, or PREPARE, we've provided over $3 billion annually to help countries strengthen their resilience, especially to climate shocks.  And this has had a profound impact because the lion's share of this money is going to African countries who are suffering the worst effects of these climate shocks. 
 
And, of course, these resources matter.  But representation also matters.  So we pushed, before many others did, for the African Union to become a permanent member of the G20.  Got that done.  We're now pushing for African representation on the U.N. Security Council, and we intend to get that done too. 
 
We've launched the first-ever President's Advisory Council on Diaspora Engagement to ensure that we're shaping our policies in a way that both reflects, reinforces, and leverages the deep ties that we have with the African continent. 
 
And the President has sent an unprecedented number of leaders from his Cabinet and administration, including Vice President Harris, to visit more than 20 countries across Africa. 
 
Earlier this summer, President Biden stood side by side with President Ruto at the White House to launch a vision document about debt relief that will be a game changer for African countries.  And we will carry forward at the G20 Summit this fall -- working with Brazil, South Africa, the current and next chairs of the G20 -- to try to take that vision to the next level so that we have a framework for debt relief that really works and delivers for countries that have been suffering under debt for too long, compounded by the post-COVID overhang. 
 
So when you take what we are trying to lay out, especially in this debt relief space, we know that there is so much more unfinished business that we have to do.  And President Biden has told us: Run through the tape, get it done over the course of the next six months, and then continue to support Vice President Harris in her future efforts to continue delivering for the African continent. 
 
So the opportunity that we see sitting before us to really think about the relationship between the public sector and the private sector and civil society may be best exemplified in the concept of corridors that lies at the heart of the President's initiative, the PGI, the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment.  And we're especially proud of the Lobito Corridor. 
 
Already, we've mobilized more than a billion dollars for railway lines that will extend from Angola to Zambia to the DRC and, ultimately, to the Indian Ocean, connecting the continent from east to west.  It's the biggest American rail investment in Africa ever. 
 
And it's not just about physical infrastructure. 
 
On digital infrastructure, we're building fiber optic cables across the region to connect communities and businesses.
 
On energy infrastructure, we've mobilized almost $3 billion in clean energy projects, from solar energy plants to battery energy storage -- battery energy storage systems. 
 
Now, I want to be clear: There's more that we have to do, more partnerships to form, more challenges to overcome, more potential to seize.  But over the past three and a half years, that's just some of the progress that we've made together. 
 
And that's in no small part because of AGOA -- and not the direct impact of AGOA, though it has been profound, but because AGOA has really been the platform, the foundation upon which we have built so much of our other economic partnership work.
 
And I want to pause here for a moment.  I know you've heard this a few times over the last couple of days, maybe not just over the last couple of days, but the last couple of months, even the last couple of years.  But it bears repeating and we mean it: The President, myself, the entire Biden-Harris administration is committed to working with our Congress to reauthorize the law. 
 
And in line with the theme of this forum, we're also committed to reimagining it, modernizing it, and ensuring the legislation promotes resilient supply chains, high-standard investments; ensuring that it supports our efforts to confront a range of emerging challenges and opportunities, whether it's artificial intelligence or the clean energy transition; ensuring that it incorporates voices across industry, including small businesses and entrepreneurs; and ensuring that it reflects the dynamism of our economies and the diversity of our peoples. 
 
Because at its core, that is what the U.S.-Africa Partnership is all about, what this forum is all about.  It's our people.  The ones who stand up decade after decade, generation after generation, for the things that we hold dear: our country’s shared values of liberty, democracy, freedom, prosperity, innovation.  The ones who brought our nations together in fields like technology, medicine, education, and trade.  And the ones who have transformed what is a geopolitical partnership into an unbreakable friendship between peoples, because that really is what should and can define the future of the relationship between the United States and the nations of Africa. 
 
And we're going to keep that friendship strong by coming together in communities all across Africa and America to exchange ideas and innovations. 
 
So I said I would be brief.  I was a little longer than brief, but let me close with this. 
 
Twenty-five years ago, when President Clinton urged Congress to enact AGOA, he ended his statement with a call to action: “Seize this opportunity.”  That's what he said.  “Seize this opportunity.” 
 
The United States will continue to answer that call to action.  We will seize this opportunity now to reauthorize, modernize AGOA, and reinforce the foundation it provides to all of the other work that we do together. 
 
We'll continue to work with nations across Africa to build a world worthy of our people, one that is more free, more secure, and more prosperous for all. 
 
And we will continue to stand with you, everyone in this room, in partnership and friendship, to seize all of these opportunities in the years ahead.  Because as President Biden often says, there is nothing beyond our capacity if we do it together. 
 
So, thank you for giving me the opportunity to be here tonight.  I hope you have a wonderful evening.  I'm
so grateful to you for all that you've done and contributed here so far.  And let's get to work.
 
Thank you very much.  (Applause.)
 
END

---

SHARE THIS STORY

Great Point Studios Host New York Women In Film & TV

---

---

By Oyiza Adaba

---

New York Women In Film & Television (NYWIFT) held its annual member meeting on June 18, 2024 at Great PointStudios in Yonkers, NY. The networking event also introduced members to the 2024 candidates running for the 2024-25 NYWIFT Board elections.

NYWIFT’s Meet The Candidates Night

New York Women in Film & Television (NYWIFT) advocates for equality in the moving image industry and supports women in every stage of their careers. As the preeminent entertainment industry association for women in New York, NYWIFT energizes women by illuminating their achievements, presenting training and professional development programs, awarding scholarships and grants, and providing access to a supportive community of peers.

PHOTOS BY AFRICA-RELATED

Tribute to Tam Fiofori: Keen Chronicler of Nigerian Culture

---

---

By Bruce Onobrakpeya 

Tam Fiofore “UNCLE TAM” (1942-2024). Nigerian Filmmaker Visionary Historian Critic

Tam Fiofori, was a visionary filmmaker, photographer, and writer, whose indelible mark enriched Nigeria's artistic realm profoundly.

Tam Fiofori's creative brilliance shone brightly across our cultural landscape, yet our society's nurturing of his genius fell short. In comparison to his equally talented peers in more supportive settings, Tam's full potential may not have been fully realized.

To honour his legacy and support future luminaries, our society must establish genius grants and specialized funds. These initiatives empower gifted individuals to create impactful contributions, fostering a nurturing environment where their creativity can flourish. Such support not only enhances their productivity but also enriches our collective cultural fabric.

Nigeria remains a reservoir of exceptional talents like Tam, yet many struggle to realize their full potential due to inadequate support structures. Despite their occasional reclusiveness or rebellious nature, these geniuses deserve our steadfast protection.

Remembering kindred spirits like Ayodele Awojobi, Ola Balogun, Tijanni Mayakiri, Jimi Solanke and Oyiza Adaba underscores the importance of organizations like CORA, dedicated to celebrating our true talents.

Tam's absence leaves a void among close friends and fellow participants at the Harmattan workshop, organized by the Bruce Onobrakpeya Foundation, where his presence was deeply felt and cherished. His legacy as a confidant, friend, and artistic luminary who was a keen Chronicler of Nigerian culture, will endure, inspiring generations to come.

---

Bruce Onobrakpeya resides in Lagos. He is UNESCO  Human Livng Treasure, Founder and Foundational Member of the Annual Harmattan Workshop

---

---

share this story

Extremely Popular Play "This Is Our Chance" Revisited

---

---

This Is Our Chance, is arguably the first full-length play by an African author in the English language. Written while Ene Henshaw was a medical student in Dublin, Ireland, This is Our Chance, has undergone many reprints, and has been extremely popular in West Africa since its first production by the Association of Students of African Descent in Dublin in 1948.

Since its publication in 1956, it has gone on to become one of the classics of African literature, read widely and performed in schools and colleges across the English-speaking Commonwealth.

Princess Kudaro and Prince Ndamu have been sent by their fathers, Chief Damba of Koloro and Chief Mboli of Udura, to be educated in a big city. Despite the fact that their communities have been long-standing rivals and venomously hate each other, they fall in love and enjoy the care-free anonymity of city life. However, both are simultaneously called back home to their villages.

Princess Kudaro is tutored in her father’s palace by Bambulu, an intelligent though self-important

and pompous character who has had a Western European education. Their quarrelsome relationship propels the central theme of the play, the tug between modernity in the western sense and traditional African customs and tradition. While Kudaro blindly and impetuously reacts to the stifling ways of life in the village, Bambulu argues for change, though his prescription verges around the more superficial aspects of western habits and conduct.

When Kudaro elopes with Ndamu, Bambulu becomes the scapegoat for her insurrection. He is arrested and threatened with death. Eventually, Kudaro falls into the hands of Mboli’s soldiers and in an ironic twist, Prince Ndamu is captured by Damba’s troops. Both chiefs, stubborn and fiercely proud, wrestle with the conflicting weights of tradition, enmity and parental love.

Common sense prevails and Damba releases Prince Ndamu with a message of peace to his father, Chief Mboli.

The themes and issues covered in This Is Our Chance: the tug between tradition and modernity, inter-tribal enmity, forbidden love and the challenges of leadership are as pertinent today as they were when the play was published.

---

SHARE THIS STORY

Port Authority and JFK Millenium Partners

---

---

Port Authority and JFK Millenium Partners Announce Selection of Acclaimed Artists to Create Permanent Commissions at John F. Kennedy International Airport’s New Terminal 6

18 Inspirational Art Installations Will Feature Artists from New York and Beyond, Supporting Port Authority and JFK Millennium Partners' Vision to Transform the Passenger Experience at JFK

Sculptures, Suspended Installations, Wall Works, and Glass Mosaic Floor Medallions will Create a Unique New York Sense of Place

Curated by Public Art Fund, Artists Selected by Committee from Port Authority, JFK Millennium Partners, and Arts Community

Photos of the Artists are Available Here; Construction Photos and Renderings of the New Terminal 6 are Available Here

QUEENS, N.Y., July 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and JFK Millennium Partners (JMP), the company selected to build and operate the highly anticipated $4.2 billion Terminal 6 (T6) at John F. Kennedy International Airport, today announced that 18 artists have been selected to debut new public art commissions when the terminal opens to passengers in 2026. The art program is led by Public Art Fund, the independent nonprofit organization dedicated to art in public spaces. The featured artists, including 10 from New York City, will capture the spirit of New York with a diverse range of artworks that will be seamlessly integrated into the terminal. Sculptures, suspended installations, wall works, and glass mosaic floor medallions will create a unique New York sense of place.

The project supports the Port Authority's vision to create a world-class passenger experience at JFK, as it has done at the award-winning, internationally recognized terminals at the new LaGuardia Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport's Terminal A, through inspirational public art, operational excellence, 21st century technology and world-class functionality.

The new Terminal 6 is a key component of the Port Authority's $19 billion transformation of JFK into a world-class gateway, with two new terminals; two expanded and modernized terminals; a new ground transportation center; and an entirely new simplified roadway network.

"Public art that is inspiring and evocative of our region is an essential part of the Port Authority's strategy to create world-class airports that are becoming destinations in their own right," said Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton. "Just as we have done at LaGuardia and at Newark-Liberty's Terminal A, the public art at JFK's new Terminal 6 will dazzle travelers and help create a sense of place unique to New York."

"These remarkable artists will bring the unique spirit of our region to the new JFK Terminal 6, welcoming international visitors and locals alike," said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O'Toole. "We applaud the creative vision of these talented artists and look forward to seeing their creative works transform the terminal."

"Art brings visitors from across the world to New York City, and our new international gateway at JFK will be an art destination in and of itself," said George Casey, chair of the board of JFK Millennium Partners and chair and CEO of Vantage Group. "Stepping into the new Terminal 6, visitors will instantly feel the vibrancy of the city's cultural life reflected in this captivating range of artworks."

"Art takes a starring role at the new Terminal 6. Walls, floors, ceilings and volumes will all be enriched with architecturally integrated, site-specific commissions by some of the most extraordinary artists of our time," said Nicholas Baume, artistic & executive director of Public Art Fund. "Like Terminal 6 and New York itself, the reach of the art program is global, featuring artists from near and far, from groundbreaking, emerging voices to senior, celebrated figures." 

---

Christine & Darasimi: Two Faces of Successful Home Schooling In Nigeria

---

---

To Homeschool or Not?

By oyiza adaba

Listen to the valedictory addresses given by two graduates of the ACE curriculum, then decide for yourself. Ms. Christine Gomwalk (18) and Ms Darasimi Olayiwole (18) spoke passionately and admirably at the graduation ceremony, which happened at the Covenant Word Unlimited Ministries, Jos is a partnership of the Gomwalk Home School, LCA Academy using the Accelerated Christian Education (ACE) Curriculum.

“Schools and homeschools around the world use the A.C.E. School of Tomorrow® program in the training of their children. The A.C.E. program consists of Bible-based K–12 curriculum, student programs, and professional training. Although other publishers have marketed academic curriculum, no one has produced a life-changing character package like that of A.C.E. Children’s minds develop best in a God-centered environment of absolutes and love. They emerge with a sweet attitude and with a greater, richer concept of God and how He wants them to live.”

— Accelarated Christian Education (A.C.E)

26th Harmattan Workshop Agbarha-Otor 2024

---

---

Remarks by President Biden

---

---

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 14, 2024

REMARKS BY PRESIDENT BIDEN
 
Roosevelt Room

2:05 P.M. EDT
 
THE PRESIDENT:   Good afternoon.  Last night, I spoke with Donald Trump.  I’m sincerely grateful that he’s doing well and recovering.  And we had a short but good conversation.
 
Jill and I are keeping him and his family in our prayers. 
 
We also extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim who was killed.  He was a father.  He was protecting his family from the bullets that were being fired, and he lost his life.  God love him. 
 
We’re also praying for the full recovery of those who were injured.  And we’re grateful to the Secret Service agents and other law enforcement agencies who -- and individuals who risked their lives, literally, for our nation.
 
As I said last night, there is no place in America for this kind of violence or for any violence for that matter.
 
An assassination attempt is contrary to everything we stand for as a na- -- as a nation.  Everything.  It’s not who we are as a nation.  It’s not America, and we cannot allow this to happen.
 
Unity is the most elusive goal of all, but nothing is important than that right now -- unity.
 
We’ll debate, and we’ll disagree.  That’s not -- that’s not going to change.  But it’s going to -- we’re going to not lose sight of the fact of who we are as Americans.
 
Look, Vice President Harris and I were just briefed in the Situation Room by my homeland security team, including the director of the FBI, the secretary of Homeland Security, the attorney general, the director of the Secret Service, my homeland security advisor, the national security advisor.  And we’re going to continue to be briefed.
 
The FBI is leading this investigation, which is still in its early stages.  We don’t yet have any information about the motive of the shooter.  We know who he is.  I urge everyone -- everyone, please, don’t make assumptions about his motives or his affiliations.
 
Let the FBI do their job, and their partner agencies do their job.  I’ve instructed that this investigation be thorough and swift.  And the investigators will have every resource they need to get this done.
 
Look, as this investigation continues, here’s what we’re going to do.
 
First, Mr. Trump, as a former president and nominee of the Republican Party already receives a heightened level of security, and I have been consistent in my direction to the Secret Service to provide him with every resource, capability, and protective measure necessary to ensure his continued safety.
 
Second, I’ve directed the head of the Secret Service to review all security measures for the -- all security measures for the Republican National Convention, which is scheduled to start tomorrow.
 
And third, I’ve directed an independent review of the national security at yesterday’s rally to assess exactly what happened.  And we’ll share the results of that independent review with the American people as well.
 
And, finally, I’ll be speaking more about this tonight at greater length from the Oval Office: We must unite as one nation.  We must unite as one nation to demonstrate who we are. 
 
And so, may God bless you all.  And may God protect our troops.
 
Thank you very much.
 
2:08 P.M. EDT

---

SHARE THIS STORY

FACT SHEET: Outcomes of the 56th Session of the UN Human Rights Council

---

---

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE

Office of the Spokesperson

---

For Immediate Release

 FACT SHEET

July 12, 2024

Outcomes of the 56th Session of the UN Human Rights Council

During the 56th session of the UN Human Rights Council, the United States worked closely with UN Member States to highlight and address pressing human rights concerns and to uphold the universal values, aspirations, and principles that have underpinned the UN system since its founding.  Our statements and positions underscored the U.S. commitment to promoting the universality of human rights, including by addressing discrimination, inequity, and inequality in multiple contexts.  

This session, the United States advanced our priorities on a broad range of human rights and fundamental freedoms, including economic, social, and cultural rights, including: 

Renewing the mandate of the Special Rapporteur (SR) on the situation of human rights in Eritrea 

The United States worked with the EU and other partners to renew the mandate of the SR.  This mandate is particularly important given Eritrea's ongoing human rights violations and abuses, including its arbitrary detention of individuals for exercising their freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly, or religion or belief, and its repression of those who conscientiously object to Eritrea’s compulsory, indefinite national service.

Renewing the mandate of the Expert Mechanism to Advance Racial Equity and Justice in Law Enforcement (EMLER)

The United States strongly supports the renewal of the EMLER mandate and cosponsored the resolution that passed by consensus.  The mechanism is part of a global effort to advance the rights of members of marginalized racial, ethnic, and Indigenous communities.  The United States was proud to host an official country visit from EMLER in April 2023.

Advancing Gender Equality and the Empowerment of All Women and Girls

As part of our longstanding work to address the human rights of all women and girls, we reaffirmed support for eliminating discriminatory laws and practices.  We strongly advocated that the human rights, health, and welfare of all women and girls be protected in several key resolutions, including Elimination of all forms of discrimination against women and girls, Technology facilitated gender-based violence, Menstrual hygiene management, and Accelerating progress towards preventing adolescent girls’ pregnancy.  Additionally, as an active member of the Group of Friends on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity, the United States worked with our partners across the session to highlight the importance of protecting the human rights of LGBTQI+ persons. 

Other Priorities:

The United States joined consensus on the resolution to continue reporting on the human rights of Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar, the resolution providing human rights technical assistance and capacity-building in Libya, and the text renewing the work of international expert Antonia Urrejola in identifying obstacles to carrying out the 2016 peace agreement in Colombia.

The United States also co-sponsored resolutions on thematic issues including the independence of the judiciary, jurors, and assessors and the promotion and protection of human rights in the context of peaceful protests.  We joined consensus on resolutions on freedom of expression, the human rights of seafarers, safety of the child in a digital environment, and the importance of free secondary education.

Joint Statements:  

Reflecting our core value of championing policies and practices that provide equal opportunities and protections for everyone, no matter their gender, the United States was proud to lead a joint statement cosponsored by states from all regions that condemns conflict-related sexual and gender-based violence.  We continued our efforts to shine a light on the use of transnational repression by leading a joint statement condemning the actions of countries to silence critics beyond their borders through intimidation, surveillance, or violence.  The United States also led a joint statement on athletes as human rights defenders.

We also joined statements on Georgia, Ukraine, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, the Special Rapporteur on freedom of peaceful assembly and of association, and the Olympic ideal.  To advance gender equality, we signed statements on Women's Economic Empowerment; Women, Diplomacy, and Human Rights; Women's and Girls’ Human Rights; and Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity.

Side Events: 

A central highlight of this session was the side event the United States co-hosted with the EU on our joint U.S.-EU guidance for online platforms on protecting human rights defenders online.  Panelists discussed growing online threats faced by human rights defenders (HRDs), underscored the need for online platforms to allocate sufficient resources to address the threats faced by HRDs, and the critical need for cross-platform collaboration.

The United States co-sponsored several additional side events, including events on Arbitrary detention, Decriminalization of homelessness, LGBTQI+ issues, Belarus, and Building a roadmap towards a disability-inclusive post-2030 agenda, among others.

# # #

---

Stay connected with the Office of Press Relations:

CELEBRATING JAMES ENE HENSHAW @ 100

---

---

James Ene Henshaw (1924 -2007) was one of the pioneer African dramatists.

By James Ene Henshaw Foundation

A physician by profession who, in his own words, ‘strayed’ into writing.' His plays capture the pulse and moments of African society. They speak of the tug between tradition and modernity, of the declining morality of a newly independent society, of the failure of becoming, in political and ethical terms, among the evolving elite.

Henshaw attended missionary schools, Sacred Heart School, Calabar and Christ the King College, Onitsha before going on to read Medicine at the National University of Ireland, Dublin and the University of Wales, Cardiff, United Kingdom where he qualified a chest physician. Back in Nigeria he went on to an illustrious career in Medicine serving as Senior Consultant-in-charge, Tuberculosis Control, Eastern Nigeria (1955-68), and finally as Director of Medical Services in the former South Eastern State of Nigeria. He served in various professional and public service positions and earned several honours including Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) and Knight of the Order of St. Gregory (KSG) from his Holiness Pope Paul V1.

His first, seminal, play THIS IS OUR CHANCE (1958) has since gone on to become one of the most popular works by an African writer, with several reprints and staged by professional companies, schools, colleges and universities across the continent. Henshaw remains the most popular, if not critical, playwright to have emerged from the African continent.

One thing for which Henshaw will be remembered is the fact that his was the first attempt to be regarded as authentic African drama to be performed by African people. As Henshaw himself recounted of THIS OUR CHANCE, he had set out, consciously, to write plays whose scenes take place in surroundings that are not far removed from Africa.

In his personal life, Henshaw was a devoted husband and father to eight children who kept his family very dear to his heart.

He died on 16th August 2007, just after working on his last project, an adaptation of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar into his native Efik language.

Bruce Onobrakpeya's THE MASK AND THE CROSS Opens in Washington D.C.

---

---

by OYIZA ADABA, Washington D.C.

---

Front view of The National Museum of African Art at The Smithsonian Institution. Photo by Africa-Related

The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African Art is showcasing works by sculptor and printmaker Bruce Onobrakpeya, considered one the fathers of postcolonial Nigerian modernism.

Image of the artist Bruce Onobrakpeya, towering over his exhibition.

Opening Night: Guest curator Janine Gaëlle Dieudji with Lauren Tate Baeza Curator of African Art at the High Museum of Art in Atlanta and Mudiare Onobrakpeya of Bruce Onobrakpeya Foundation.

Oyiza Adaba takes viewers inside “Bruce Onobrakpeya's: The Mask and the Cross”, on view June 21 - Jan. 21, 2025. The exhibition features works by the artist from 1966 through 1978, a period when he completed multiple commissions for the Catholic Church, including his seminal “Fourteen Stations of the Cross” series. The exhibition also recognizes Onobrakpeya’s legacy - inspiring generations of visual artists in Nigeria - with artworks from the museum’s collection that reflect Onobrakpeya’s influence. The opening ceremony was graced with dignitaries from diplomatic corp to art lovers, collectors and family members.

The National Museum of African Arts is celebrating 60 years of showcasing unique art from Africa, with a summer lineup that also include, ‘Benin Bronzes’: Ambassadors of the Oba, ‘Before Nollywood: The Ideal Photo Studio’, Ayana V Jackson’s 'Into The Deep’, John Akomfrah’s ‘Five Mumirations’, and ‘Water in African Arts’ exhibitions.

“Blending Christian iconography, Nigerian folklore and West African traditions, Onobrakpeya’s art interprets spiritualism through a global lens. Biblical stories are presented with Nigerian characters and environments, such as the “Passion of Christ” depicting Roman soldiers in British military uniforms and Jesus in Nigerian robes. ”

— National Museum of African Art

Oyiza Adaba reports. Video courtesy of Africa-Related.

PHOTOS: AFRICA-RELATED

Official Launch: TOM ADABA LEGACY FOUNDATION + OKENE LEGACY CENTER

---

---

Watch official launch of Tom Adaba Legacy here

Photos by David-Mary Ikemeh of @dm2studio

Full Video: "DELA" North American Premiere

---

---

"DELA: The Making of El Anatsui", is an “in-depth” biographical documentary directed by Oyiza Adaba. It made its North American premiere at the New York African Film Festival (NYAFF31) on May 12th, 2024 at the prestigious Lincoln Centre. “DELA” is currently showing at global film festival before going into distribution. Follow the film’s progress here

DELA Director Oyiza Adaba, in front of Lincoln Center, New York. Photo: Galina Ivankovich/Africa-Related

---

---

SHARE THIS STORY

George Ehusani on Nigeria's Minimum Wage Debate

---

---

Excerpts from Rev Fr George Ehusani. Sermon on Nigeria's Minimum Wage Debate. 

Lux Terra Leadership Center Abuja, June 2024.

I have been sick of this controversy over living wage or minimum wage, and I believe that something is seriously wrong with the heads of many of our leaders.

How can anyone who earns 200,000 300,000 400,500 thousand, not to talk of people who earn 1 million 2 million how can they go to sleep in good conscience?  How can they go to sleep in good conscience and come out to sit down in a boardroom to discuss the sustainability or otherwise of paying 60,000 to the poorest of workers? 

I watch people on TV experts, economic experts, corporate executives, government officials who are taking home more than a million and the amount and they are debating 60,000 or over will destroy the economy and is not sustainable. How wicked. 

 How can we give 60,000 to a poor worker for his poor worker who may have a family of two or three or four for his feeding, for his accommodation, for his house rent for his medical care for his children's school fees? How can we be blind? How can we do that? And we think that God will bless our country? 

We think that it is by bringing a new national anthem for God to bless our country. How can you commit this crime against humanity? For me this is a crime against humanity.  

Because the poor people who cannot afford to buy Garri,  I'm saying poor people who cannot buy Gary, I'm not talking of meat or fish. People are dying because they have no money to cure malaria. How can you go to sleep in good conscience, those of us who belong to the elite? How can we go to sleep with good conscience? 

I see this as a new form of apartheid. Nigeria is one of the most unequal societies in the entire world. A society where it's like the Animal Farm, a society where we have conspicuously rich people, people who are living in conspicuous consumption and others who are in deplorable, dehumanizing poverty.

If you have somebody in this country that takes home, 1 million naira, I mean 1 million I'm not talking about 30 million naira 1 million naira in the month and he can open his mouth. I say anyone who earns up to 1 million should keep his or her mouth shut when he hears them debating about paying 60,000 for the poor. 

More than 60 years after independence, we are running an apartheid society. This time is not racial apartheid, iis economic apartheid. 

We are running an apartheid society of people of conspicuous consumption flying in private jets around at government expense. People who are riding four or 567 SUVs with pilot vehicles chasing the poor out of the road. 

You insulted the poor by saying 30,000, and later you say 48,000, and now you say 60,000. Actually you will pay more than 60,000. You come out with 62,000. You insult poor Nigerians. 

There is hardly any society I know that is as divided as the Nigerian society and a society that is so divided is just sitting on a keg of gunpowder. I have warned here before that the revenge of the poor is at the corner. The revenge of the poor is at the corner. I am not calling for it, but it will happen as night follows the day. 

Because when you reduce people to this dehumanizing level, nature does not allow a situation of islands of affluence amidst a sea of poverty. Nature does not allow it. 

Let me warn those in the elites. Let me warn those in the apartheid committee of government. Let me warn that it is in the course of nature that when a predator continues to devour the various resources that the predator needs more for his sustenance, nature will take out the predator in order to have a measure of equilibrium. Nature is about balance, you know. 

When a predator continues to devour the various resources that the predator needs more for its sustenance, nature will take out the predator in order to have an equilibrium in order to have a measure of equilibrium. Nature is about balance, you know. All of nature is about balance and human beings are part of nature. And Nigerians are part of nature

If the predator who needs the animals in the kingdom to survive is recklessly devouring the very animals for its own survival, nature will step in and remove the predictor so that there can be balance in the system in the ecosystem. 

Let me one that all those who are in government, I hear I have not confirmed that there are people taking home almost 30 million naira in the month and you have the guts and you have the temerity. Your conscience allows you to sit down to discuss about 60,000 Naira for a poor worker for the whole month, and you are the one that has all the opportunities of excess. 

You sit down to discuss about 60,000  and come out and say this is not sustainable. How is that 30 million Naira sustainable economy? How is this sustainable that a leader has 100 SUVs going with him to the airport? How is this sustainable? How is it sustainable that leaders merely junket around the world? How is that sustainable? 

I say we are committing a crime against humanity. And if we do not repent and retrace our steps immediately Revenge of the poor is at the corner. Do not hold me responsible because while the devastation was on, I did not keep quiet. Do not hold me responsible. Because while the madness was on, I did not sit on the fence. I kept on shouting, that the revenge of the poor is at the corner unless we change our course. And if we do not change our course we will end up where we are headed. And where we are headed is devastation, disruption, violent revolution.

I rest my case.

---

share this story

2024 Trafficking in Persons Report

---

---

2024 Trafficking in Persons Report

OFFICE TO MONITOR AND COMBAT TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS

The film and series Òlòtūré directed by Kevin Gyang focuses on human trafficking, migration etc. It is now showing on Netflix.

WHAT: Washington Foreign Press Center On-The-Record Hybrid Briefing 
TOPIC: 2024 Trafficking in Persons Report 
BRIEFER: Cindy Dyer, Ambassador-at-Large to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons 
WHEN: Tuesday, June 25, 10:00 a.m. ET  
WHERE: National Press Building, 529 14th Street, NW, Suite 800 and Zoom 
RSVP: Sign Up. Priority given to in-person attendees. 

BACKGROUND: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken released the 2024 Trafficking in Persons Report (TIP Report) on Monday, June 24 with Cindy Dyer, Ambassador-at-Large to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons. On Tuesday, Ambassador Dyer will brief FPC journalists on the report, which represents the world’s most comprehensive resource of anti-trafficking efforts around the globe. The Report is mandated by the Trafficking Victims Protection Act and exemplifies the United States’ longstanding bipartisan commitment to combating human trafficking. This year’s Report, the 24th edition, includes narratives for 188 countries and territories, including the United States. The 2024 TIP Report describes key issues in the Western Hemisphere region and focuses on the anti-trafficking efforts of governments and other stakeholders. The Report also documents several emerging global trends including the continual growth of forced labor in online scam operations.   

Cindy Dyer serves as the U.S. Ambassador-at-Large to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons. Ambassador Dyer is a human rights advocate with three decades of experience at the local, national, and international levels to address human trafficking, sexual assault, and domestic violence. In 2021, she served on the Independent Review Commission on Sexual Assault in the Military.  For 12 years, she was the Vice President for Human Rights at Vital Voices.  She previously served as the Director of the Office on Violence Against Women at the U.S. Department of Justice.  She began her career as a specialized domestic and sexual violence prosecutor in Dallas, Texas for more than 13 years where she was also a weekly hotline volunteer at a local women’s shelter.

FOREIGN BROADCASTERS:  Download a digital copy of the video for all on-camera FPC events at the DVIDS website.   

Washington Foreign Press Center  
National Press Building   
529 14th Street, NW, Suite 800  
Washington, DC  20045  

Phone: (202) 504-6301 

---

SHARE THIS STORY

Bride of Zambia

---

---

Press Release

“Bride of Zambia”  Short Film Initiates Rare Conversation on Gender Inequality In Zambia

New York City, May 24, 2024

In April 2024, Zambian filmmaker Tisa Chigaga re-released her  sophomore short film, Bride of Zambia, on  Indie Films World, where it is currently available for online pay per view streaming. A multicultural collaboration, the film was produced by Bollywood entertainment cooperation D-Star Productions and Indie Films World. 

The film follows a young Zambian-born New York resident in the lead up to her wedding. Despite having a modern upbringing, she is pressured into adhering to the highly conservative traditional code of conduct for Zambian brides and eventually wives. Featuring scenes directly questioning the relevance of traditional gender norms in the ultra conservative nation, the film offers a very rare public discussion about gender inequality in Zambia.  

Despite the highly controversial nature of the chosen themes, in an unforeseen show of support,  the filmmaker has  received messages from hundreds of women identifying with the plight of the protagonist, and thanking the film for finally speaking out. It is the filmmaker’s hope that more engagement with the film will break down further boundaries around conversations pertaining to gender and tradition in Zambia.

“Thank God for this production. A lot of women are truly oppressed by these teachings. What a courageous step to put this out and finally speak about it!” @mwesh_moon on Instagram 

“Even as a Bollywood producer, I was able to see the power and impact of this story. It is my hope that this film will do more for gender parity in Zambia and the world throughout.” Mukesh Modi, CEO Indie Films World and D-Star Productions  

“Making Bride of Zambia was by far the scariest thing I have ever done. But hearing women say the film made them feel seen and that they finally have a voice, made it all worth it. It is my hope that this film will enable more open discussions on what has always been considered a taboo subject.” Tisa Chigaga, Director 

Tisa Chigaga currently serves as the Program Manager of the New York African Film Festival, and can be reached on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter (@tisachigaga). Bride of Zambia is available to view here on Indie Film World.

# #

Nigerian Center's response: H.R. 82 CPC redesignation Nigeria

---

---

Nigerian Center’s Response:

House Resolution 82, the Redesignation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) to the United States

Summary

- Expressed the need to designate Nigeria as a country of particular concern due to egregious religious freedom violations.
- Introduced on January 31, 2023, by Representative Christopher H. Smith [R-NJ-4] to the House, then referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
- There are currently 30 co-sponsors of the resolution, 29 Republicans and 1 Democrat.

Nigerian Center Community Partners Meeting on HRes. 82 Part 1:

Nigerian Center Community Partners Meeting on HRes. 82 Part 2:

Dear Community Partners,

Following our recent virtual meeting to discuss the Country of Particular Concern Nigeria redesignation campaign, and the implications for Nigeria. I wanted to inform you that we have compiled the key points discussed by each speaker into a comprehensive policy brief. This document aims to provide a concise overview of the topics covered and the insights shared during the meeting.

The policy brief is intended for your information and reference. Should you have any questions or require further clarification on any of the points raised, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Thank you once again for your participation and collaboration during the virtual meeting. We look forward to our continued partnership and the positive impact we can create together.

Best regards,

Nkechi Ilechie

Policy Director

Nigerian Center Inc.
An Immigrant & Cultural Center
Phone: (202) 330-0352

https://www.nigeriancenter.org/
1231 Good Hope Road, SE, Washington DC 20020

Alliance Française Accra Announces Environment Week:

---

---

A Week of Action for a Sustainable Future!

Accra, Ghana – 31st May 2024

The Alliance Française Accra (AFA) is proud to announce its inaugural Environment Week, taking place from Monday, June 3rd to Saturday, June 8th, 2024. This week-long initiative is a powerful statement of AFA's commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility and aims to raise awareness about two critical environmental issues: Fast Fashion and Plastic Pollution.

The fashion industry casts a long shadow. According to a Business Insider analysis, it contributes a staggering 10% of global carbon emissions. This comes at a heavy cost to our water sources, rivers, and ecosystems, with 85% of all textiles ending up in landfills each year. Even the simple act of washing clothes releases a shocking 500,000 tons of microfibres into the ocean annually – the equivalent of 50 billion plastic bottles!

Plastic pollution is another major threat. Reports highlight the devastating impact of plastic on our environment, with millions of tons entering our oceans each year. This plastic harms marine life, pollutes our beaches, and disrupts entire ecosystems.

AFA Environment Week aims to tackle these challenges head-on. Throughout the week, a variety of engaging activities will be offered, including:

●     Art Exhibitions: Powerful and evocative artwork by Bee Arthur and others will spark conversation about the environmental impact of fast fashion and plastic pollution.

●     Panel Discussions: Renowned experts from Ghana's Ministries of Environment, Sanitation, Tourism, Youth & Sports, and Fisheries will come together for a thought-provoking discussion on tackling these issues. The discussion will be moderated by Richmond Quarcoo of Plastic Punch, a leading Ghanaian environmental organization.

●     Solution-Based Presentations: Hear from inspiring artists, environmental activists, and organizations like Bee Arthur, Plastic Punch, Tei Huagie, OR Foundation, Revival Earth, and Little Big Esi as they share innovative solutions for a greener future.

●     Community Old Clothes Drive: Help declutter your closet and support a sustainable future! Donate your gently used clothes for a good cause. (Open to AFA staff and students)

●     Environment Fair: Discover a marketplace of eco-conscious vendors offering sustainable and recycled products, alongside beautiful, environmentally-friendly art.

●     Arts & Environment Edutainment Night: Immerse yourself in a unique evening featuring poetry, spoken word performances, an impactful immersive theatre experience by the Alikoto group, and captivating acoustic music by Nene Narh.

●     Beach Clean-Up: Join AFA for a community beach clean-up at the Regional Maritime University in Nungua. Together, we can make a tangible difference in protecting our coastline!

Key Dates:

●     World Environment Day: Wednesday, June 5th – Join a special conference featuring the panel discussion and solution-based presentations.

●    World Ocean Day: Saturday, June 8th – Conclude the week with a rewarding beach clean-up experience

Event Partners:

AFA is proud to partner with Plastic Punch, a leading Ghanaian organization tackling plastic pollution, Bee Arthur, a renowned artist who uses her work to raise awareness about fast fashion, and Travelwings, an online travel agency with over 25 years of experience in the Travel Industry.

Join the Movement!

AFA Environment Week is a call to action for everyone in Accra. Whether you're a passionate environmentalist or simply looking to learn more and make a positive impact, we invite you to join us for this exciting week. Let's work together to safeguard our planet and build a more sustainable future!

For more information and the full program lineup, please visit the Alliance Française Accra website or social media pages.

---

SHARE THIS STORY

VERITAS UNIVERSITY MAKES RESOURCE VERIFICATION VISIT TO THE PSYCHO-SPIRITUAL INSTITUTE OF LUX TERRA

---

---

VERITAS UNIVERSITY MAKES RESOURCE VERIFICATION VISIT TO THE PSYCHO-SPIRITUAL INSTITUTE OF LUX TERRA

The Psycho-Spiritual Institute of Lux Terra Leadership Foundation, on Thursday May 23, 2024, hosted a visitation panel from Veritas University, Abuja. The team led by Prof. Mike Kwanashie, were at the take-off site of the Institute to verify the readiness of the Organisation to enter into an affiliate relationship with the university, by way of human and physical resources, as well as policies, processes and procedures. After inspecting the space allotment for all statutory offices and positions, and being taken through the physical and electronic library resources, the team settled down to do a quick evaluation of the curriculum content of the two postgraduate programmes of the Institute, namely, the Post Graduate Diploma in Psycho-Spiritual Trauma Healing, and the Master's degree in Psycho-Spiritual Therapy.

Recall that on April 26, 2024, Lux Terra received the approval of the National Universities Commission (NUC) to begin the process of affiliation with Veritas University, towards floating in Nigeria the integrated Psycho-Spiritual Therapy programmes that the Institute has been running in Nairobi , Kenya, for over 10 years. The recent visit is therefore a significant step towards entering into the affiliation agreement, and towards a subsequent Accreditation Visit by NUC. See pictures below

---

SHARE THIS STORY

Highlights Prof. El Anatsui Receives 2024 Doctor of Fine Arts From BARD COLLEGE

---

---

Ghanaian Sculptor, Prof. El Anatsui receiving the 2024 Doctor of Fine Arts at Bard College

Oyiza Adaba, New York

BARD COLLEGE ONE HUNDRED SIXTY-FOURTH COMMENCEMENT

Bard College held its 164th commencement on Saturday, May 25, 2024. Bard President Leon Botstein conferred 395 undergraduate degrees on the Class of 2024 and 229 graduate degrees. Bard also conferred 40 associate degrees from its microcolleges and Honorary Degrees to exceptional award recipients like Prof. El Anatsui, who was the received the 2024 Doctor of Fine Arts

The Ghanaian sculptor, who is known for his ground-breaking redefinition of sculptural installations that hang in the world’s most prestigeous museums, was in good company. Other recipients include Hollywood actress Rachael Weisz, David C. Banks chancellor of New York City Public Schools, Carla Hayden, the 14th Librarian of Congress and Imad Abu Kishek president of Al-Quds University (AQU).

Earth Scientist Naomi Oreskes delivered the 2024 Commencement Address, in which she addressed the difficulties of today’s world, and challenged young minds to finding a middle ground in resolving conflicts.

“It's an instinct for many of us to want to resolve contradictions. To conclude that Heidegger must be either a great thinker or a fascist—because how could he be both? To say that Locke, as a racist, cannot be an inspiration to us today. To insist that Schrodinger’s cat must be either alive or dead.”

“The world needs both speaking and listening. If no one spoke, there would be nothing to listen to. But if no one listens, then there isn’t much point in speaking. ”

— Naomi Oreskes

Located in upstate New York town of Annandale-on-Hudson, Bard College is a liberal art institution that was founded as St. Stephen’s College in 1860. It was also home to the late Nobel Laureate Prof. Chinua Achebe from 1990 to 2009. The Nigerian author of the globally acclaimed novel “Things Fall Apart”, was the Charles P. Stevenson Jr. Professor of Languages and Literature at Bard College.

The ceremony was accompanied by a Luncheon at the President’s residence, a tour of Achebe House, barbecue and fireworks..

Photos for President’s Luncheon, Commencement Ceremony and Tour of achebe house

---

SHARE THIS STORY