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: “A closed mouth catches no flies.” – African Proverb
Today in History (December 2, 1929), three women are killed by police during the Women’s War involving thousands of women from the Bende District in Nigeria, staging a march to protest corrupt chiefs who are about to approve direct taxation on women. These women, the “Oloko Trio”: Ikonnia, Nwannedia and Nwugo, were admired for their intellect and they also contributed to preventing violence. In encouraging peace, another leader, Madame Nwanyereuwa, led with protest songs, dances and sit-down occupations. Source: https://www.africatodayyesterday.org/days/02-dec
Word of the Day: “When there is no enemy within, the enemy outside cannot hurt you.” – African Proverb
Today in history, the Republic of Dahomey officially changed its name to Benin. This change was a crucial step towards national unity, aimed at eradicating tribal divisions and influences rooted in colonial history. By adopting the politically neutral name ‘Benin’, the nation moved away from the ethnic associations linked to its former name, ‘Dahomey’, which was tied to the country’s largest ethnic group, the Fon.
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.
Uganda wan pass law against homosexuality by the end of 2012. Na Christmas gift to advocates of homosexual rights be that. Member of Parliament, na em talk am. People of Uganda want am like that.
Foreign donors dey vex say if gay rights are not respected, dem go cut aids to the country. Gbege!
lAkUnLeScReWs 