Word of the Day: “Even the best cooking pot will not produce food.” – African Proverb
Today in history marks a groundbreaking moment in ancient architecture, as future archaeologists date the construction of the first monumental structure built entirely of stone: the six-staged stepped pyramid in Saqqara, Egypt. Under the ingenious guidance of the architect Imhotep, this architectural marvel is being erected to serve as the eternal resting place of the 3rd Dynasty pharaoh, King Djoser. Source: https://www.africatodayyesterday.org/days/04-dec
News highlights from Africa and beyond (December 6, 2023).
Word of the Day: “Do not wait to strike till the iron is hot; but make it hot by striking.” – African Proverb
Today in History, we celebrate the birth of a Kenyan long-distance runner born in Kapsokwony, Kenya. Linet Masa distinguished herself early in her athletic career. At 18, she set a world junior record in the 10,000 meters at the 2008 Summer Olympics, finishing fourth against an adult field. She continued her ascent by winning the world title in the 10,000 meters at the 2009 World Championships in Athletics at age 19. Source: https://www.africatodayyesterday.org/days/04-dec
News headlines from Africa and beyond (December 5, 2023).
Word of the Day: “If you close your eyes to facts, you will learn through accidents.” – African Proverb
Today in history, as the annual dangerous illegal sea migration from Africa to Europe draws to an end this year, a boat carrying African migrants to Europe sinks off Mauritania; 58 of 141 people on board die. Source: https://www.africatodayyesterday.org/days/04-dec
News highlights from Africa and beyond (December 4, 2023).
Word of the Day: “The sun does not forget a village just because it’s small.” – African Proverb
Today in History (December 3, 1929), the first edition of Iwe Irohin, the first newspaper in Nigeria and indeed West Africa, was published in 1859. Source: https://www.africatodayyesterday.org/days/03-dec
Word of the Day: “Tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for it today.” – African Proverb
Today in history (December 1, 1963), Ghana triumphs in the African Cup of Nations, marking a significant moment in African football. Hosting the tournament, Ghana won 3-0 against Sudan in the final. This victory symbolized hope and unity for Africa during a time of major political change, inspiring the continent with the spirit of teamwork and determination.
Word of the Day: “A single bracelet does not jingle.” – African Proverb
Today in history, we celebrate the birth of John Dramani Mahama, a significant figure in Ghanaian politics. Born on November 29, 1958, Mahama served as the President of Ghana from 2012 to 2017. He was the first Ghanaian President born after the nation’s independence.
Word of the Day: “Where there is love there is life.” – Maahtma Gangdhi
Today in history, we recall the pirate Blackbeard’s bold seizure of a French ship transporting 455 enslaved Africans. In a brazen act of piracy, he marooned them on a Caribbean island, providing them with three tons of beans for sustenance. Compelling the ship’s crew to remain, Blackbeard commandeered the vessel, claimed it as his flagship, and christened it the Queen Anne’s Revenge.
Word of the Day: “I think, therefore I am.” – René Descartes
Today in history, we reflect on Ghana’s poignant “Year of the Return” in 2019, marking the 400th anniversary of the arrival of the first enslaved West Africans to America in 1619. On this significant date, Ghana embraced the roots of our shared history by granting citizenship to 125 African Americans, symbolizing a powerful homecoming and a bridge of unity across the diaspora. This gesture of solidarity and recognition resonates as a beacon of healing and reconnection with the roots.
Word of the Day: “Fall seven times, stand up eight.” – Japanese Proverb
Today in History in Cairo (1954 November 26) marks the completion of the first skyscraper in North Africa. The building is a fusion of contemporary design and traditional Egyptian elements. It reflects the country’s ambition and its embrace of the future, while honoring its rich cultural heritage.
Word of the Day: “Hope is the physician of each mystery.” – Irish Proverb
Today (November 24) in history, we turn our gaze to the significant events of the Ethiopian monarchy in the 19th century. Sahle Selassie, a prominent ruler in the history of Ethiopia, made a critical decision amid religious disputes that divided the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. He dismissed his appointees to the local monasteries of Shewa, demonstrating a commitment to ecclesiastical autonomy and navigating a complex array of political and religious challenges during his reign. Selassie’s reign was marked by efforts to strengthen his domain and maintain regional stability despite the turmoil of the era.
Word of the Day: “You can’t wake a person who is pretending to be asleep.” – Navajo Proverb
Today (November 23) in history, the National Museum of the Democratic Republic of Congo was opened to the public in 2019 by the President of the DRC, Félix Tshisekedi. This was to provide for the conservation of the cultural heritage of DRC scattered over the world especially in Belgium, when they are finally returned to the country.
The Big Brother Africa show has just exhausted its 63 days on air and Idris Sultan, a Tanzanian photographer, won the ‘hitherto highly’ coveted prize. It will be satiating to put on record that the reaction of many Nigerians, and Africans at large, was that of chagrin at the shortchanging of Tayo Faniran, the Nigerian – Oyo State bride that was widely loved for his discipline, honesty and entertaining participation in the Big Brother house.
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