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Facebook celebrates Elizabath Ohene and others in new book, ‘LeadHERs: Life Lessons From African Women’

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As part of its celebration around International Women’s Month, Facebook has announced the launch of ‘LeadHERs: Life Lessons From African Women’, a collection of beautifully inspired stories & life advice from 19 women who are breaking boundaries in fields such as media, entertainment, politics, education and business.

The 19 women include Ghanaian journalist, editor and politician, Elizabeth Akua Ohene. When Elizabeth Akua Ohene became a journalist in 1967, there were no other female reporters at her paper. After twelve years as a reporter, she was appointed as editor, becoming the first woman to edit a major national daily newspaper in Africa. But when she was critical of Jerry Rawlings’ then-government, she was forced to take her eight-year-old son and flee the country. She lived in exile for 19 years, working as a reporter for the BBC in the UK, including being part of the award-winning BBC Focus on Africa team.

 When she returned to Ghana in 2000, she campaigned for John Kufuor for President; when he was elected the following year, Elizabeth joined the new administration as Minister of State to the Ministry of Education, Science and Sports.

Sharing her lesson on how to know your values and be true to yourself, Ohene  reveals in the book:

My maternal grandmother, whom I was sent to live with from the age of five to nine, was an early powerful female role model for me. She had been widowed before the age of 40 and had been left with six children to bring up but refused to remarry as was the custom. She had a fearsome reputation in her small village, and therefore nobody was allowed to mess with me. Looking back, I think she taught me the importance of knowing what you want out of life and making sure you don’t get pushed into things.

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My own parents were both teachers and so questioning everything was part of my upbringing. I always knew I’d do something with words when I grew up and I wrote for the school magazine, but I’m not sure I had my sights set on being a journalist. When I finished university in 1967 someone told me the Daily Graphic, our national newspaper, was recruiting. I applied, had an interview and was successful.

The first thing that hit me was a cloud of smoke when I walked into the office, because everyone smoked. The atmosphere there was extremely male. The only women there were the two typists – journalists handwrote their articles and then handed them to be typed up – by a woman in the library. As I was led around the office by the editor, I was told that there had been “girls like you here before and they don’t last long”. I then had a really horrendous experience with the feature’s editor, who when I said hello and held out my hand, grabbed my wrist and said sexually suggestive things to me. I remember the tears springing to my eyes, but I suddenly thought, “I am not going to let you see me cry over this.” I looked him straight in the eye and said, “Are you quite finished?” It didn’t take long until they realised that my copy was good and that I got the story: I let my work speak for itself. I think that is the best way to help with confidence.

It was a very tumultuous period in Ghana in 1979; there had been a military uprising and people were being publicly executed. I wrote an article saying the killings should stop; people said it was brave, but I just knew I had to write it. Because it was a state-owned newspaper, every time there was a change in government, a new editor was appointed. When the new government was elected, I was selected to be editor. I was only 34 and the first woman to hold that role; I accepted on the condition that they would stick to the new procedures they were proposing around state-owned media.

Two years later we had another coup. I was extremely angry; I didn’t particularly support the government at the time, but my view was that it had been elected and the people should remove them at the next election, rather than being forced out by the military. I wrote this, and as I was going home from work one day, I heard on my car radio that I should report to military barracks. I decided not to do that, but to leave the country with my eight-year-old son. I thought we would be gone for six months; we spent 19 years in exile in London.

I kept working as a journalist for the BBC, then, in 2000, I took a six-month sabbatical from my job to come back to Ghana to campaign for John Kufuor in the Presidential elections. When he won, he offered me a position in his government, so I called the BBC and quit. I loved my job, but I needed to go home. It wasn’t a huge shift to get into politics: when you’re a journalist you’re already involved in politics. I had been hugely angry about having to flee my country and live-in exile: the thought that anyone should have to leave their home just because they don’t agree with the government was disgusting to me. I got into politics because I wanted to make sure that never happened to anyone else in my country

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Available for free in digital and physical formats, the book provides inspirational real-life stories for future generations and young leaders. Each chapter focuses on a personal experience and life lesson around how these women have navigated their path to success, alongside the challenges they have had to overcome along the way. ‘LeadHERs: Life Lessons from African Women’ isaimed at encouraging, inspiring and guiding the reader – no matter the background, age or ambition.

‘LeadHERs: Life Lessons from African Women’ follows on from the successful 2020 launch of ‘Inspiring #Changemakers: Lessons from Life and Business’ in South Africa. This 2021 book is further brought to life through a series of beautifully illustrated artwork specially commissioned from four female artists from across the continent – Massira Keita from Côte d’Ivoire, Lulu Kitololo from Kenya, Karabo Poppy from South Africa, and Awele Emili from Nigeria.

With over 5,000 copies printed, the book will be provided for free to a number of Facebook’s local training partners including She Leads Africa, Fate Foundation, DigifyAfrica, Siyafunda, Smart Ecosystems for Women and cCHub. These will be distributed across 15 countries, including South Africa, Nigeria, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Liberia, Senegal and Kenya – in schools and to beneficiaries of training(s) offered by Facebook partners.

Nunu Ntshingila, Regional Director, Facebook Africa, said: “At Facebook we know that African women are at the helm of shaping the future of our promising continent – they are changemakers, mothers and CEOs. This book is a celebration of just some of the exceptional African women who in their own right are trail-blazers, motivating and inspiring people and advocating for good across Africa, and the world. We’re excited about their individual stories, inspired by challenges they’ve endured and how they’ve risen above these, and importantly how they’ve turned these into important life lessons to help inspire others.”

The women featured in ‘LeadHERs: Life Lessons From African Women’, include:

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  • Tara Fela-Durotoye – Entrepreneur and CEO [Nigeria]
  • Elizabeth Akua Ohene – Journalist and Politician [Ghana]
  • Hawa Sally Samai – Founder, CEO and Campaigner [Sierra Leone]
  • Saran Kaba Jones – Founder and CEO [Liberia]
  • Temi Giwa-Tubosun – Founder and CEO [Nigeria]
  • Baratang Miya -Tech entrepreneur and CEO [South Africa]
  • Dr Judy Dlamini – Entrepreneur, Author and Philanthropist [South Africa]
  • Yvonne Okwara – Journalist and News Anchor [Kenya]
  • Tecla Chemabwai – Athlete and Educator [Kenya]
  • Alice Nkom – Lawyer and Human Rights Activist [Cameroon]
  • Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim – Global Activist [Chad]
  • Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu – Founder and CEO [Ethiopia]
  • Lelemba Phiri – Entrepreneur, Investor, Educator [Zambia]
  • Vanessa Hau Mdee – Media personality, Musician and Podcaster [Tanzania]
  • Monica Musonda – Lawyer, Entrepreneur and CEO [Zambia]
  • Kalista Sy – Showrunner and Screenwriter [Senegal]
  • Noella Coursaris Musunka – Model and Philanthropist [Democratic Republic of the Congo]
  • Samantha ‘MisRed’ Musa – Media personality, Social Influencer and Philanthropist [Zimbabwe]
  • Djamila Ferdjani – Doctor and Entrepreneur [Niger]

This March marks the three year anniversary of Facebook’s #SheMeansBusiness programme in Sub-Saharan Africa, an initiative designed to inspire, empower and train female entrepreneurs across the continent to build, grow and start their own businesses. As part of this, Facebook is launching a new training component on business resiliency through financial education in Nigeria, South Africa and Senegal, with the additional modules aimed at improving female business owners’ financial management skills, whilst addressing challenges that women entrepreneurs face, such as access to capital.

To download the book visit:

https://issuu.com/ideaengpr/docs/lead_hers_-_life_lessons_from_african_women

 

 

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Ghanaian activist hugs over 1,100 trees in an hour to set record

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An environmental activist and forestry student from Ghana has set a new world record for the most trees hugged in one hour. (more…)

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BEING A JUDGE FOR THE MODEL INTERNATIONAL IS A BIG PORTFOLIO – EX MP BARBARA AYISI ASHER

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Honorable Barbara Asher Ayisi

Former Member of Parliament for Cape Coast North constituency in the Central Region, Barbara Ayisi Asher, took on the prestigious role of judging the Cape Coast Audition for The Model International, adding yet another feather to her cap of accomplishments. Not only did she oversee the audition, but she also secured her place as a guest judge on the show itself, solidifying her position as not just a politician but a prominent figure in the world of fashion and entertainment.

The Cape Coast Audition, which served as a gateway for aspiring models in the region, marked the beginning of an exciting journey towards discovering West Africa’s next top talents in modeling. However, the spotlight now shifts to the bustling city of Accra, where the next round of auditions is set to take place.

Scheduled for Saturday, the 4th of May 2024, the Accra audition will be hosted at the prestigious Gold Coast Restaurant, conveniently located near Rockstone’s Office, Cantonments. Doors will open at 10 am, welcoming female West Africans between the ages of 18-26, residing or schooling in Ghana, to showcase their flair and passion for the runway, the camera and the screens.

Registration for the audition comes at a nominal fee of GHS100.00, providing participants with a chance to compete for the coveted title of The Model International, mouth-watering contracts and $2000.00 cash prize. To secure a spot in the audition line-up, aspiring models can register online at www.themodelinternational.com/register or seek assistance by contacting Esther, via call or WhatsApp on +233 50 890 6222.

The Model International promises to be a spectacle of talent, elegance, and glamour, captivating audiences across the nation. Set to premiere on Metro TV from the 1st of June 2024, viewers can tune in every Saturday at 8 pm to witness the unfolding drama and excitement of the competition.

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As the anticipation mounts and the countdown to the grand premiere begins, the stage is set for an exhilarating journey towards declaring the next face of West African modelling and fashion. With Barbara Ayisi Asher involved, The Model International is poised to redefine standards of cat walking with grace, elegance in front of the camera and shaping the future of the fashion industry one runway at a time.

Watch Video below

 

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C6OPjrVNN6C/?igsh=MW55ZWt4YXFkOXNyaQ==

 

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African Development Bank appoints Ambassador Jalel Trabelsi as Special Envoy for Middle East and North Africa and Gulf Region

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The President of the African Development Bank Group Dr. Akinwumi Adesina  has appointed career diplomat Ambassador Jalel Trabelsi as his Special Envoy for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and Gulf Region.

Ambassador Trabelsi brings to the role over 30 years of experience as a highly accomplished and distinguished diplomat.

As Special Envoy for MENA and the Gulf Region, Ambassador Trabelsi will help to foster diplomatic and strategic engagements within the MENA and Gulf Region, focusing on the Bank’s strategic priorities, strengthening partnerships and mobilizing public and private sector resources at scale to deliver transformational projects in Africa.

A Tunisian citizen, Ambassador Trabelsi’s diplomatic career is marked by significant roles and contributions. He served as Minister Plenipotentiary for African Affairs, and was the Ambassador of Tunisia to Nigeria, Ghana, Benin, Sierra Leone, and the Economic Community of West Africa (Ecowas). He also served as the Dean of the Council of Arab Ambassadors and in other roles as an Adviser to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Head of the National Commission for Tunisia’s candidacy to the Presidency of the African Development Bank.

He is also a specialist in international law and taught Diplomatic International Law at university level.

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Ambassador Trabelsi holds an Advanced Master in Maritime and Aviation Law from Belgium’s Université Libre de Bruxelles, where he undertook his undergraduate degree in political science and international relations and passed with the highest honors. He also holds a Master’s degree in political science from the University of Tunis. He is multilingual with fluency in English, French, and Arabic.

Commenting on his appointment, Ambassador Trabelsi said: “I am extremely honoured to be appointed by Dr. Adesina to this role. As an African, I am motivated to continue to serve our continent and to contribute to the African Development Bank’s transformational work under the visionary leadership of Dr. Adesina. I will work to ensure the Bank maintains and further strengthens its excellent and fruitful cooperation and partnership with Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and Gulf Region.”

Dr. Adesina said: “I am delighted to have Ambassador Trabelsi as my Special Envoy for a region that holds a lot of promise for the Bank’s and Africa’s economic transformation. He has a strong track record and expertise in international relations and cooperation as well as international negotiation. He brings extensive knowledge in African, Arab, and European affairs and a deep understanding of the activities of the Bank, as well as other regional and international financial banking institutions.”

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KFC Ghana Introduces the “Streetwise Wings Meal” for ONLY GH¢30, KFC will also Embark on Donating 500 Streetwise Wing Meals Every Month to Basic Schools!

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Streetwise Wings Meal

KFC Ghana is excited to announce the latest addition to their Streetwise menu: the “Streetwise Wings Meal.” This new offering is a perfect blend of KFC’s signature crispy wings paired with a side of delightfully spicy rice, all for an affordable price of GH¢ 30.

The “Streetwise Wings Meal” is a flavorful adventure meant to satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank. The meal consists of three juicy and perfectly fried chicken wings, coated in KFC’s famous blend of herbs and spices. To complement the crispy wings, the meal includes a generous serving of spicy rice—a hearty side that packs a punch and ensures a fulfilling dining experience.

“KFC Ghana is always looking for ways to deliver value and satisfaction to our customers,” said the Digital and E-commerce Manager of KFC Ghana. “We believe that the Streetwise Wings Meal does just that, providing a balanced and flavorful meal at a price point that is accessible for everyone. It’s a perfect choice for a quick lunch or a delicious dinner on the go.”

The Streetwise Wings Meal is now available for order through the KFC Ghana App, with options for delivery, in-store pickup, or dine-in. The App is designed to provide the utmost convenience for customers, allowing for seamless ordering and payment. You can download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and get your meal with just a few taps on your smartphone.500 Donation of Streetwise Wings Meal

KFC assures that all meals are prepared following the highest standards of quality and hygiene, ensuring that customers not only get a delicious meal but also a safe one.

So, whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a full meal, the new Streetwise Wings Meal is here to make your day a little more flavorful. Head to the nearest KFC or get the app now to enjoy this spicy new treat!

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In addition to offering the delectable “Streetwise Wings Meal,” KFC Ghana is expanding its community support by announcing a generous donation campaign and will be donating 500 Streetwise Wing Meals at selected basic schools every month across the country. This initiative invites customers or social media users to nominate a school for a chance to enjoy this amazing offer, illustrating KFC Ghana’s commitment to giving back to the community. With the addition of this charitable action, KFC Ghana reinforces its reputation as a brand that not only provides value through its meals but also invests in the welfare of its community and its employees. Updates will be communicated via KFC Ghana’s social media platforms. Don’t forget to follow the social media pages and nominate a school!

Facebook: KFC Ghana

Instagram: @KFCGhana

X: @KFC_Ghana

TikTok: @KFC_Ghana 

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Reasons Why People Go For Car Subscription

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For some time now, people engaged in car subscription services such as car replacement have become one of the most popular incorporations compared to conventional car ownership and leasing. These can be listed as the advantages of the inventive method to access vehicles proven to bring in many consumers. 

Why many people are now moving to car subscriptions

One of the main factors that affect the success of these car subscription services is the unparalleled flexibility they provide. Traditional car ownership or leasing has been the order of the day with long term commitments and the conscientious task of paying for petrol filling and car servicing. However, due to the nature of car subscriptions, such as short-term basis access, the ability to switch between different models depending on one’s needs can be achieved.

Lap of car subscriptions plan there is transparency and accurate prediction costs. While regular car ownership can accumulate a variety of expenditures, such as the buying price, interest for financing, insurance, fuel, services and so on. These expenses can trend up or down significantly at different times and are sometimes difficult to predict ahead of the other way around.  

The choice of a large selection of cars for car subscription services means that people can quickly get what they like and need from the huge range of cars. The type is lovely to those driven by the need to change the type of car they drive or those who need more than one right car simultaneously. For instance, they might settle for a compact city car for their daily journey on the weekdays and go for the large SUV in case of a weekend family excursion.

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Regular car ownership and leasing are very long-term and include significant risks; you must figure out many things. The single cash outlay for purchasing a vehicle is usually considerable compared to leasing, a progressive payment option usually with penalties if terminated before the contract period. These two also substitute each other for consumers facing the risk of fast depreciation, mechanical problems and possible high expenses related to repair.

Car subscription services allow users to sign up for a short period and to hear about insurance coverage. Many of our subscriptions last for a month, and in case you need to unsubscribe or put your membership on hold, you will need short notice. The indifference to long-term engagement speaks for those who cannot commit themselves for a long-term period or need to be bigger to decide on a considerable investment, Contact SwitchCars for vehicle subscription.

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Car subscription services are built to the notion of environmental stewardship, which has recently gained much more prominence.  Utilizing car subscriptions, shared mobility is encouraged by shifting people from traditional car ownership to eco-friendly, seeing as alternatives were provided.

 

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7 Ways For A Seamless Living Spaces in Tropical Climates

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Natural Ventilation How It Works and How Youll Benefit From It

Living in a tropical climate presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to home design. The warmth and humidity can be overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can create a living space that not only copes with the environment but also thrives in it.

Here are seven effective ways to design comfortable living spaces that suit tropical climates to keep your home cool, airy, and inviting all year round.

1. Optimize Natural Ventilation

Enhancing natural airflow is one of the most effective ways to keep your home cool in a tropical climate. Design your home with large windows and doors aligned to catch prevailing winds.

Consider installing ventilated roofing systems that allow hot air to escape and cooler air to enter. This not only reduces the reliance on air conditioning but also improves indoor air quality.

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2. Use Light-Colored Paints and Reflective Materials

The color and materials you choose for your home can have a significant impact on temperature. Light-colored walls and roofs reflect sunlight, significantly reducing heat absorption compared to darker colors. Reflective materials or paints specifically designed for thermal control can be used on roofs to deflect the sun’s rays, keeping indoor spaces cooler.

3. Incorporate Shade Solutions

Effective use of shade can drastically reduce the heat in your home. Planting trees strategically around your house can block direct sunlight while adding to the aesthetic value of your property.

Additionally, consider using awnings, canopies, or extended overhangs to shade windows from the intense midday sun. These solutions not only help in cooling your home naturally but also extend the life of your furnishings by protecting them from sun damage.

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4. Update Your Furniture Choices

Furniture not only needs to be stylish but also functional, especially in a tropical climate. Opt for pieces made from natural fibers like rattan, bamboo, or wicker, which are more breathable than upholstered furniture.

These materials don’t absorb heat and allow air to circulate freely, making them ideal for humid environments. For instance, you can find coffee tables on sale that are stylish, functional, and don’t absorb heat as much.

5. Choose Appropriate Flooring

Flooring choices can greatly affect the thermal comfort of your home. In tropical climates, we recommend using materials that stay cool underfoot, such as ceramic tiles, marble, or polished concrete.

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They don’t retain heat and add a sleek, modern touch to your home. Rugs and carpets might be used sparingly as they can trap heat and contribute to a stuffier feeling.

6. Embrace Outdoor Living Areas

To make the most of the tropical environment, design your home to include comfortable outdoor living spaces. Covered patios, decks, and verandas provide the perfect spot for relaxation and entertainment while allowing you to enjoy the natural surroundings without discomfort from the heat.

Furnishing these areas with weather-resistant furniture and vibrant plants can enhance the overall comfort and beauty of your home.

7. Implement Smart Cooling Technologies

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Modern technology offers various solutions to help keep your home cool. Energy-efficient air conditioners, smart fans, and automated blinds can significantly enhance indoor comfort.

These technologies can be programmed to adjust according to temperature changes throughout the day, ensuring your home stays cool without constant manual adjustment. For more on integrating these technologies into your home, consider exploring some modern home improvement ideas.

Enhancing Comfort in Tropical Climates

Creating a comfortable living space in a tropical climate is about balancing functionality with aesthetics. These approaches not only improve quality of life but also potentially reduce energy consumption, making homes as eco-friendly as it is comfortable.

With thoughtful planning and strategic design, we can create a space that stays cool, inviting, and stylish throughout the year. Let’s embrace the unique challenges of our tropical locale and turn them into opportunities to innovate and revitalize our living spaces.

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