Kenya has been one of the places I’ve wanted to visit for a long time, and thanks to the #CelebrateAfrica campaign, I had the chance to do so… and in great style!!! #CelebrateAfrica is a Canon campaign that kicked off on February 7 across Africa, encouraging Africans to share unique, beautiful and amazing pictures from their countries in celebration our great continent. As part of this campaign, I was selected alongside other media influencers and photographers to experience an array of Canon’s latest cameras at the world famous Maasai Mara Game Reserve.
Although the 2-day excursion took me outside Nairobi, thus I couldn’t explore the city as much as I would have loved, the experience and thrills of Maasai Mara wil not be forgotten in a rush!
I left Ghana for Kenya few hours after arriving from covering the African Cup of Nations in Gabon. I had a not so restful flight throughout the day being seated in exit zones, on seats that couldn’t be reclined! So when I arrived in Nairobi, I was absolutely tuckered out.
After checking into my room around 7 am Kenya Time, I had my breakfast and went immediately to my room to get some rest before a Canon press conference at 9am – well, not before I could share some photos of the stunning view from my Intercontinental Hotel room, on social media.
After the press conference, I went back to bed to get some much needed sleep again! When I woke up, I had a shower and then went downstairs for dinner before casually walking to around town to explore the beauty of Nairobi. I didn’t stroll away for too long as we had and early morning the following day.
In the morning I finally met the rest of the guests from Kenya, Tunisia, Nigeria, Uganda and Tanzania. We were put into groups and allocated buses for our trip to Maasai Mara. We picked breakfast packs and hit the road, the long road to see the Maasai tribesmen.
On our way, we made a stopover at the Rift Valley Point kick-start our photography experience. The idea was to have us try the different ranges of Canon cameras; we were given a memory card each so we could switch cameras and experience Canon from the simple point and shoot cameras to the more professional DSLRs. However, I found out that I would be stuck with one of the basic ones for the entire day…ha-ha!
A stop at the Longonot Earth Satellites 
As we proceeded with our journey, we took in all the spectacular sceneries along the Rift Valley floor, from Mt. Suswa to the Longonot Earth Satellites, and through Narok. The journey got longer and bumpier as we approached Maasai Mara. But after some four hours, we arrived at Jambo Mara Safari Lodge, where we were welcomed by a rather elaborate routine of dancing and singing by the Maasai people.
After enjoying the warm welcome, we checked into our rooms and had lunch before going on a cultural tour. Maasai Mara is home to the legendary Maasai tribesmen and we visited one of their Village, Manyatta to learn more about their culture and lifestyles. Sadly I left the Canon Camera in my room and so I could not attempt to switch with anyone; I ended up using my phone for photos and videos for the rest of day.
After the cultural tour, we departed for an afternoon game drives in the park. The game drive was over 2 hours of scenic pleasure in the wild. Mara offers breath-taking views with an extraordinary density of animals. Apart from the seasonal migration, game viewing is excellent year round as the reserve is home to the “Big Five” with the largest population of black-manned marsh lions, the elusive leopard, aggressive buffaloes, herds of elephants, rhino with many varieties of plains game and birds. During the safari, we saw various animals including buffalos, antelopes, zebras, cheetahs, elephants, and possibly any wild animal we could think of. But nothing seemed to have captivated us more then when we finally spotted the kings of the jungle. In fact when we saw the lions I got so excited and anxious to capture them so much that I ended up hitting my head in the car and injuring myself. But after a quick detour to get me some first aid, I was back in my explorer mode, although in slight pain!
We continued to enjoy spectacular sunset and more views, before heading back to the lodge for dinner and rest for another early morning. In the morning, we were picked up at 5 am and transferred to a site for a hot air balloon safari The Balloon safari lasted for about an hour but it passed by so quickly as it was accompanied by beautiful and captivating scenes of animals in the wild, and the natural breeze that came with just being in the bare great outdoors. And well, who can forget Captain Mike and his sharp sense of humour? I totally enjoyed my first hot air balloon ride.
The balloon safari was followed by champagne breakfast in the bush and after that, Capt. Mike handed out certificates to us. We were then driven back to the lodge with more game viewing en route! When we got back to the lodge, we checked out just in time to announce winners for the photo competition amongst guests.[caption id="attachment_103470" align="aligncenter" width="700"]
My submission for the photo competition[/caption]
Since I didn’t have a professional camera the previous day, I knew the photo I submitted didn’t have any chances of winning but I was proud of the fact that I was able to capture an exciting photo of two animated people, with a camera that did not have a fantastic shutter speed. Yes, excuses, excuses!!!
We then headed back to Nairobi on another long and bumpy expedition. And when I got back to citylife, there was finally Internet in my hotel room and I could start sharing my wonderful experience at Maasai Mara on social media.
So there you have it, my fun experience of Kenya for the first time. But remember that the #CelebrateAfrica competition is on and open to residents of any African country from now till April 15. Photos should be submitted under three categories namely; people of Africa, Africa’s Citylife and Africa’s landscape and wildlife. Winners will receive an array of Canon prizes, from holidays to DSLR cameras to expert workshops. The competition is for people from all walks of life who have a story to tell and can tell it in photos. More details can be found at www.Picfair.com/CelebrateAfrica.
And now filling in the missing adventure….photos from my phone
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People & Lifestyle
‘Dubai in Accra’ set to thrill Ghanaians on Sunday, April 28
In the heart of Accra, excitement buzzes as the city eagerly anticipates the grand spectacle known as “Dubai in Accra,” set to take place this Sunday 28th April 2024 at the prestigious Stanbic Heights, Icon House Airport. (more…)
People & Lifestyle
Celebrating 25 Years: Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s Reign
Today marks the 25th anniversary of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s reign as the Asantehene, the King of the Ashanti Kingdom.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II: Celebrating 25 Years of Local and Global Impact.
Showing on @GTV_Ghana and streaming on all our social media platforms on Sunday, April 28, at 8:30PM.#Asanteman #OurCultureOurHeritage pic.twitter.com/g3u0Ql5q6i
— GTV Ghana (@GTV_Ghana) April 26, 2024
The celebrations, which began with spectacular fireworks witnessed by Otumfuo himself, will culminate in the Silver Jubilee anniversary on Akwasidaekese on June 12 at Dwabrem, Manhyia Palace.
This milestone is a testament to Otumfuo’s impactful leadership, dedication to the Asante people, and contributions to education and research as the Chancellor of KNUST.
❤️ @AkwaboahMusic meets The King of Ashanti Kingdom Otumfoc Osei Tutu II. pic.twitter.com/wdvlulV7Ez
— FELICIA OSEI (@Osei_Feliciaa) April 26, 2024
The event is being celebrated across Ghana, with well-wishes and congratulations pouring in from various quarters, highlighting the significance of this occasion for Asanteman and Ghana as a whole.
People & Lifestyle
Mr. Beast in Ghana: Surprising Visit Sparks Excitement
World-renowned YouTuber Mr. Beast, known for his philanthropic acts, has been spotted in Ghana, specifically in Accra and Tema, sparking excitement among locals.
Wow, Mr Beast is in Ghana! Look at how boys are gathering to take pictures with him. pic.twitter.com/46gawXYWnJ
— Big Kay🇬🇭 (@OfficialBigkay) April 26, 2024
His visit has led to discussions about his choice of Ghana over other African countries, with some suggesting that the country’s popularity as a tourist destination played a role.
MrBeast is in Ghana and no one is talking about it? Make I step out more times I go get new phone or car saf pic.twitter.com/AUP9CSoDoV
— Kofi Ntim (@NtimBarima) April 26, 2024
Mr. Beast’s presence in Ghana is part of his global outreach, as he recently gifted a Ghanaian $25,000 as part of his X (Twitter) giveaway.
Read Also: Producers of 'Beast of No Nation' return to filming in Ghana, causing upset in parliament
The YouTuber has been seen exploring the country and interacting with locals, with many expressing their desire to meet him and participate in his charitable endeavors.
People & Lifestyle
Stephen Appiah to contest John Dumelo and Lydia Alhassan in MP race for Ayawaso West Wuogon
Former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah is set to enter the political fray by rubbing shoulders with notable personalities in the upcoming general elections.
The former Juventus midfielder is believed to be lacing his boots to face the likes of John Dumelo and the incumbent member of Parliament for the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency Lydia Alhassan.
While Dumelo and Alhassan represents the NDC and NPP respectively, Appiah is expected feature in the elections as an independent candidate.
This was revealed by the Spokesperson of the Ayew family Fiifi Tackie via X on Friday afternoon.
“Stephen Appiah to contest Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency as an independent Parliamentary candidate,” he wrote.
If Stephen Appiah affirms the reported news, he will be following in the footsteps of other renowned figures in Ghana football who have indulged in politics recently.
Earlier this year, all-time top scorer of the Black Stars Asamoah Gyan was appointed as the sub-committee chair of Youth and Sports in the campaign committee of Dr Bawumia, the flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party.
In acceptance of the appointment, Gyan emphasised the need to share hos ideas garnered through experience in the game.
Anas took $100,000 to stop documentary release – Kwesi Nyantakyi
‘I have enough experience to contribute to sports – Asamoah Gyan reacts to political appointment
“I always ask myself, how do we create change if we don’t want to change? How do we spectate without being on the bench, and how do we score without being on the field?… All I know and will ever know, all I love and will ever love is SPORTS.” he stated.
Another figure in Ghana football who recently announced his intention to engage in partisan politics is Kwesi Nyantakyi, former Ghana Football Association (GFA).
The former football administrator showed up as one of the candidates to contest in the NPP primaries for the Ejisu constituency following the demise of incumbent John Kumah.
However, it didn’t pan out well for the former Wa All Stars owner as he lost disappointingly.
He garnered a paltry 35 votes after close to 1,081 delegates had cast their votes in the parliamentary primary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) held in the Ejisu Constituency on April 13.
People & Lifestyle
Rebecca Osam: A Champion for Women’s Empowerment in Africa
In a heartfelt social media post, Rebecca Osam, Managing Director of Reflo Company Limited, Reflo’s TV, and Femme Fatale Productions Limited, has pledged her full commitment to empowering young women.
Rebecca expressed her desire to move beyond mere inspiration and instead build a deeper connection with young women, offering guidance and support to help them achieve their goals.
Her passion for women’s empowerment stems from her experiences growing up in Africa, where she witnessed firsthand the oppression and lack of opportunities faced by women. This drove her to co-found The Florence Mensah Foundation with her mother, aiming to empower African women and girls, and encourage them to recognise their worth, strength, and potential.
Through her foundation and personal endeavors, Rebecca seeks to provide a supportive platform for young women to thrive. She aims to be a relatable figure, offering mentorship and encouragement to help them overcome challenges and achieve success on their own terms.
Rebecca’s dedication to empowering young women proves her leadership and commitment to creating positive change in her community. Her efforts serve as an inspiration to others, highlighting the impact one person can have in driving gender equality and women’s empowerment.
As Rebecca continues her work, her message resonates with young women across Africa: “Anything is possible, and I am here to support and cheer you on every step of the way.”
People & Lifestyle
Caradise Ghana Car Rental Facilitates Transportation for Global Christian Forum held in Accra
Caradise Ghana Car Rental has once again successfully facilitated the transportation of over 240 participants from 60 countries across the globe for the recently ended Global Christian Forum in Accra, Ghana.
Numerous buses hauled the various participants from the Airport to their designated hotels from the 12th to 15th of April, 2024. Participants were then transported from their hotels to the conference grounds daily for the gathering of devoted Christians from the 16th to the 19th of April, 2024.
The forum began with a vibrant, joyful worship service held at Accra Ridge Church. The Rev. Dr. Casely Essamuah welcomed participants to Ghana and to the Fourth Global Gathering, and participants spent the day sharing their faith stories with one another across the litany of differences represented.
The forum was climaxed with a dinner and 25th anniversary celebration at the Action Chapel Internation Church hosted by Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams.
After the forum, the participants took the opportunity to visit the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum where they learnt about the great Pan-Africanist, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and Ghana’s journey to inpendence.
The participants also spent a day in Cape Coast where they learnt about the millions of enslaved, dehumanised African men, women, and children at the Cape Coast Castle. Witnessing first hand how Africans were forcibly taken captive to the Americas, Caribbean, and Europe as objects of lucrative trade.
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