People & Lifestyle

Extinction Rebellion Africa: “We’re Wearing Masks, Not Gags. Happy Africa Day”

Published

4 years ago

May 25, 2020

XR Minova in the Democratic Republic of Congo group visited the local markeet to sensitize their on how to protect themsselves against CoViD-19. Credit: Extinction Rebellion Minova

Just like reacting to a global pandemic is crucial, so is reacting to the impact of the Climate and Ecological Crisis on Africa, the region of the earth least responsible for it but condemned to bear the brunt of it. On this years’ Africa Day, commemorating 57 years since the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), now African Union(AU), Extinction Rebellion takes a look at the state of African climate affairs with Love and Rage in the Times of the Coronavirus.

Drastically changing weather patterns, droughts, floods, locusts and even pandemics, are manifestations of a growing threat to the long-term health, safety and prosperity of the people of Africa, particularly the most vulnerable. Despite reeling, like everyone else, from the pandemic, Extinction Rebellion (XR) Africa continues to act as a watchdog for that other great Emergency the continent faces.

XR KENYA

Extinction Rebellion Kenya defines the Coronavirus as the perfect distraction, enabling Kenya’s Wildlife Service (KWS) to forge ahead with its proposal to build luxury hotels, swimming pools and lodges within the Nairobi National Park (NNP). “The proposal was met with shock and outcries from environmental conservationists and the general public alike. We decry how the park is being dismantled, bit by bit. Profits are being put before life, found in irreplaceable ecosystems,” says Brian, Media Coordinator for XR Nairobi. Government and private investors steadily eat away at large swathes of the conservation area for financial benefit. Given the fragile ecosystem of the park and the diminished territory left available for wildlife, any further damage will have dire consequences not only for the animal population but also, for adjacent indigenous communities whose ancestral lands lie within the reserve. What’s left of them.

The proposed development within NNP serves only the interest of the wealthy and politicians, who stand to obtain considerable financial gain while destroying the national commons. This Coronavirus push is just one more example of wildlife reserve erosion experienced across the country through land sub-division, selling-off and mining, directly linked to a decrease in its animal populations. Lynnette Kiboro and Christopher Kiboro, whose findings were published in the International Journal of Science and Research, warn of its negative impact, underlining how “it is crucial for the government and other stakeholders to formulate legislation on conservation and protection of dispersal areas.”

XR UGANDA

XR Uganda has witnessed massively destructive floods across large parts of the country. Crops, such as cassava and ground nuts, have been decimated. Severe food shortages are reported, as prices of essential goods soar because of climbing transport costs and increasing inaccessibility. Some 300,000 Ugandans have been converted into climate refugees as they flee the effects of the above average rainfall. “According to the Uganda Meteorological Department, unusually heavy rains are expected to continue in the coming weeks across the country. District upon district are being laid to waste by rising waters, as the Coronavirus rages in the background.” describes Anette, XR Kigali’s Regional Coordinator.

XR SOUTH AFRICA

Meanwhile, in Africa’s dirtiest Greenhouse Gas emitter coal guzzling South Africa, just decided to plunge a whole lot further into filthy energy by signing a huge environmentally devastating 90-year deal to produce energy for China, according to the Amabungani Energy Research Centre. The proposed 4600-megawatt coal fired power station in Limpopo will involve mineral extraction of chrome, manganese, coking coal and lime, creating fewer jobs than renewables and spurring on global warming and up to 3 million premature deaths annually by the year 2100. “That South Africa is building a coal station, financed by China, in the midst of a scientifically proven Climate and Ecological Emergency, is akin to asking people to go to a soccer match, with China sponsoring the teams on the field during a scientifically proven pandemic,” laments Media Coordinator Orthalia from XR Gauteng in South Africa.

World Health Organization experts are fearful Africa will suffer a prolonged outbreak of Covid-19 set to linger for a few years. International Panel on Climate Change experts worry the impact of Climate and Ecological Breakdown will also run deeper here. The still ensuing 2020 locust plague ravishing both Kenya and Uganda, among other places, demonstrates how the African climate and ecosystems are controlled by a complex mix of large-scale weather systems, many from distant parts of the planet, in comparison with almost all other inhabited regions.

Extinction Rebellion has verified how the huge focus on containing the virus has led to other health issues being neglected, not least of which, the climate and environment. One of the hidden lights in the darkness of the pandemic is how XR Africa has had a chance to test and fine tune its international and local network of members who reached out to local communities and helped mitigate and prepare for the outbreak. The movement will take advantage of this newfound state of alarm among citizens and governments and demand no return to business as usual, the real Emergency. “XR Africa will be vigilant using its international network, more resilient than ever, thanks to our coming together by helping each other during the global Coronavirus crisis. Just because we are wearing face masks, doesn’t mean we are gagged,” says Moses media coordinator with XR Benue in Nigeria.

Extinction Rebellion cannot think of a better way to celebrate Africa Day, the birth of unity promised by the OAU, than to hold the AU and global governments accountable by raising African voices across the planet.

About Extinction Rebellion Africa:

Present in over 20 African countries, XR Africa will ensure the impact of coronavirus is not an excuse to forget about a far more serious crisis. Its African based PR team pledges to provide the world’s media with regular updatesto ensure the planet is aware of how the Climate and Ecological Emergency plays out across the continent.

Extinction Rebellion Africa has three demands:

The truth must be told about what reality the Climate and Ecological Emergency represents for Africans by committing to inform every last person.
An immediate reduction in Green House Gas emissions, taking advantage of the developing nature of African economies, transforming and adapting towards clean and ecologically minded models of energy.

3. A return to African democratic values, historically egalitarian societies in which government was more a matter of consensus among the entire adult population, through the introduction of citizen’s assemblies to guide a response to the Climate and Ecological Emergency, unhindered by economic or political interests, in the interest of all life.

Related Topics:Extinction Rebellion Africa

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People & Lifestyle

Celebrating 25 Years: Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s Reign

Published

1 hour ago

April 26, 2024

Ameyaw Debrah

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

Published

2 hours ago

April 26, 2024

Ameyaw Debrah

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
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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.

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

Published

2 hours ago

April 26, 2024

Ameyaw Debrah

Stephen Appiah to contest John Dumelo and Lydia Alhassan

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
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“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

Published

2 hours ago

April 26, 2024

Ameyaw Debrah

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.”

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People & Lifestyle

Caradise Ghana Car Rental Facilitates Transportation for Global Christian Forum held in Accra

Published

3 hours ago

April 26, 2024

Ameyaw Debrah

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.

People & Lifestyle

DJ Khaled Announces Second Annual We The Best Foundation Golf Classic On June 12 & 13 in Miami Beach !

Published

4 hours ago

April 26, 2024

Ameyaw Debrah

GRAMMY® Award-winning, global megastar DJ Khaled proudly announces the return of his annual WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC for the second year in a row.

For 2024, the mega-popular charity event expands to two days on Wednesday June 12 and Thursday June 13 in Miami, FL. Given the demand by countless superstar artists, A-list athletes, and entertainers to participate, he needed to stretch the proceedings over two days!

Once again, the event will be sponsored by Jordan Brand, and all proceeds support the We The Best Foundationand its numerous efforts to bolster education. Stay tuned for the multitude of exciting confirmed guests, and more.

Khaled created a cultural groundswell and personally appeared on ESPN’s SPORTSCENTER to break the news of the second installment of the WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC today. Watch HERE.

Regarding the return of the WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC, he commented, “Last year, the WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC brought out so many friends and family to make a difference, play some great golf, and have an incredible day for a great cause. This year, we’re going even bigger, and we thank everyone for their continued support. TEE UP AND BLESS UP!”

Last year, the inaugural WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC hosted Serena Williams, pro golfers Michael Block and Bubba Watson, Odell Beckham, JR., Shannon Sharpe, Victor Cruz, Jalen Rose, Terrell Owens, Marcus Jordan, Jeezy, Quavo, The-Dream, Swizz Beatz, Timbaland, Fat Joe, Cedric The Entertainer, Joey Fatone, and more. The foundation raised over $500,000 which benefited the enrichment of children and youth through educational programming, scholarships, and extracurricular activities.

More guests and partners for 2024 will be unveiled soon.