People & Lifestyle

Revisiting Maiden Edition of Big Brother Africa 20 Years On

Published

1 week ago

May 25, 2023

Today, 25^th May, which is also “Africa Day” (which is observed annually to commemorate the founding of the Organisation of African Unity – OAU), marks exactly 20 years the first season of Big Brother Africa (BBA) was launched in Johannesburg, South Africa. The show was produced by Endemol for Electronic Media Network or “Em-Net” (stylised as “M-Net”).

It started on 25th May in 2003 and ended on September 7 of that year, lasting 106 days. The housemates were Cherise (Zambia), Mwisho (Tanzania), Tapuwa (Zimbabwe), Warona (Botswana), Gaetano (Uganda) and Stefan (Namibia). The rest were Bayo (Nigeria), Abby (South Africa), Sammi (Ghana), Alex (Kenya), Zein (Malawi) and Bruna (Angola).

BBA1 was the first in the world to have housemates of different nationalities from one continent. These 12 English-speaking young Africans were confined to a palatial home in Johannesburg. The two-bedroom self-contained house had a garden, storeroom, diary room, living room, bathroom, kitchen, toilet and dining area, with 27 video cameras and 62 microphones capturing and picking every move, action and sound of the housemates. It was broadcast live, 24 hours-a-day on M-Net’s defunct channel 37 on DStv – Africa’s premier satellite TV provider.

Between May and September of 2003, the housemates brought their emotions, opinions, cultures and personalities into focus as they lived, fought, laughed, argued, learned and loved under one roof. On the last day, Cherise Makubale from Zambia was pronounced the winner of Big Brother Africa 1, after receiving 6 votes (out of the 13 votes) from Ghana, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa and Zambia to win. She walked away with the coveted $100,000 cash prize, which was handed over to her in a silver briefcase on the stage.

The inaugural Big Brother Africa was a very fascinating and outrageous “social experiment” and “TV laboratory” that mixed voyeurism with entertainment, captivating the diverse audiences – an estimated 32 million TV viewers across Africa.

The decision to stage the pan-African version of Big Brother was a business and marketing strategy. In their quest to broaden the Big Brother show audience and also to encourage people to buy their own TV sets (which was a ”luxury” back in those days) and eventually subscribe to DStv, MultiChoice (a subsidiary of M-Net and operators of DStv) allowed free-to-air local TV stations across Africa to air a packaged 30-minute daily highlights, excluding the “shower hours”. Ghana’s Metro TV (then owned by Talal Fatal) was the local Ghanaian TV station that partnered with M-Net to screen it to their terrestrial TV viewers hereby increasing the audience for the BBA1 show substantially in Ghana.

What intrigued and captured the public’s imagination about BBA1 (and the Big Brother format in general) was the allure of watching ‘real’ people in action as opposed to scripted TV dramas and movies. It was a novelty to many people in Africa, and as a result it became the talk of town, especially the “shower hours” where some of the housemates were seen on TV (only via the live feed on DStv) bathing completely naked. These live TV images of the housemates showering together stark naked, like “Adam and Eve”, titillated the obsessive live DStv feed viewers who feasted their eyes like a spider in the top corner of a bathroom.

BBA1’s “shower hours” stoked up considerable controversy across Africa, with a section of the public describing it as an affront to “public decency” and the “vilest spectacle” ever on TV in Africa. As a highly impressionable teenager at the time, this alien and avant-garde reality TV concept really piqued my curiosity and interest, and also had a profound effect on my young mind.

How Big Brother was imported to Africa

The Big Brother show was created by Dutch media mogul, John de Mol Jnr. in the late 90s in the Netherlands (Holland). Between 1997 and 1999, John developed this reality TV format with a team from his TV production company, “John de Mol Produkties” – an independent company part of Endemol.

The term “Big Brother” came from George Orwell’s novel “Nineteen Eighty-Four” (also published as “1984”), with its theme of continuous oppressive surveillance. And thus, in the Big Brother TV show house the housemates are monitored 24hr/7 with menacingly rotating super high-tech cameras fixed in every nook and cranny of the house. There is absolutely no place to hide in the Big Brother house!

The world’s first ever version of Big Brother was aired in the Netherlands on Veronica TV in 1999. This Dutch TV project became a huge hit and quickly spread across Europe. Big Brother’s franchise was then sold and syndicated internationally across the world, making it a worldwide hit show on television.

The Big Brother franchise was “imported” to Africa, through South Africa, in the year 2000 by Carl Fischer – a white South African who worked with Endemol South Africa and M-Net in the late 90s and early 2000s respectively. Carl is credited for revolutionising the TV scene in Africa (especially in South Africa) by introducing the continent’s first reality TV series, Big Brother, leading to his popular nickname “Mr. Big Brother”.

During his tenure at M-Net as Director of Local Programming, Carl pushed to increase the TV network’s investment in locally produced TV programmes, and M-Net’s investment in local programming saw a boom under him.

Hitherto, scads of the TV shows that aired on TV channels in South Africa were imported from outside the African continent, notably the Netherlands, ostensibly owing to the strong historic ties and long-standing special relationship between the Dutch of the Netherlands and Afrikaners (white South Africans) who own most of the TV networks (like M-Net) in South Africa.

The Big Brother show, being a totally new TV show format in Africa, was initially ‘piloted’ as “Big Brother South Africa”, with housemates from only South Africa – black, mixed race and white South Africans. The first season of the South African version aired in 2001 and the second in 2002.

Prior to the season 2 of Big Brother South Africa in June 2002, M-Net organised a celebrity version called “Celebrity Big Brother” which aired for only 8 days. Featuring South African celebrities as housemates, all the money raised from voting was given to charity. The two seasons, and also the celebrity edition, were all hosted by Mark Pilgrim, who recently passed on in South Africa.

The enthusiastic reception and astonishing ratings for Big Brother South Africa (which took a long hiatus after season 2, and was revived/rebranded in 2014 as “Big Brother Mzansi”) and the “Celebrity Big Brother” inspired M-Net and Endemol greatly to stage the continental edition – Big Brother Africa.

Launch of Big Brother Africa in 2003

The maiden edition of Big Brother Africa was launched and celebrated with far too much pomp and pageantry that any individual who claim not to have seen and/or heard about it was probably “deaf” and “blind” around that time.

The late Mark Pilgrim was once again given the baton to host the pan-African version too. There were also 12 guest presenters in each of the 12 participating countries whose responsibility was to interact with the kith and kin of the housemates, coupled with updating viewers on Big Brother news and highlights from their respective country.

In Ghana, that mantle fell on Christopher Nii Keith Attoh, simply called “Chris Attoh”, who was then a young freelance TV presenter and undergraduate student at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science Technology (KNUST).

Big Brother Africa was apparently designed to feature housemates from only Anglophone African countries. For this reason, most of the viewers were quite surprised to see a participant from Angola – a Portuguese-speaking nation.

But the organisers didn’t see this as a big deal, perhaps due to the fact that Angola had a sizable English-speaking population despite the country being a “lusophone” (Portuguese-speaking) nation. After all, the show targets primarily the elite class who predominantly formed this “sizable” English-speaking population in Angola.

Not surprisingly, the first housemate to be evicted from the BBA1 house was the Angolan representative, Bruna. In the wake of her eviction, word got around that the viewers in Angola misconstrued the communiqué (delivered in English of course!) issued in relation to the voting system.

From its very outset, till its fourth season (Big Brother Africa 4: The Revolution) in 2009, the public voted for the housemates they wanted to “evict” and not to “keep” in the house. But alas, the people of Angola, likewise other ‘ignoramuses’ in other part of Africa, voted massively for Bruna, thinking they were rather keeping her in the house.

It was a popular view during BBA1 that the most “beautiful” and “sexiest” housemate was this Angolan musician cum model called Bruna Tatiana Estevão (search her up on Google to confirm. LOL.). Accordingly, it was excruciatingly painful for some viewers to see her walk out of the house, barely 28 days.

Another interesting highlight of BBA1 was when Gaetano surprisingly swapped places with Big Brother UK (BBUK) housemate, Cameron Stout (from Scotland) who in the end won that season of BBUK. Gaetano’s UK trip was a prize for the best cocktail contest which was actually won by Bruna. But owing to her eviction (which was just some few days to the UK trip), it was passed on to Gaetano who came second in the contest. The Big Brother housemate swap was a “twist” designed to liven up the season 4 of the UK version which was being screened at that time in the UK.

Gaetano upset British housemate Tânia do Nascimento when he called her “a piggy” (because of the amount of food she eats), causing her to walk off in tears amid threatening to leave the Big Brother UK house. The two buried the hatchet before Gaetano left the BBUK house and returned to the BBA1 house in Johannesburg. The next day, Tânia was ‘shockingly’ evicted from the BBUK house, receiving a high public vote to evict.

For the entire 4-month period that Big Brother Africa 1 was on TV, it drew a huge following across sub-Saharan Africa (Africa, excluding “North Africa”). The explosive popularity of the show even ‘triggered’ the then President of Botswana, Festus Mogae, to go on the radio to endorse and canvass for the country’s representative, Warona.

BBA1 became a way of life on the continent. People would frantically dash out of their offices to their various homes just to catch the latest antics on TV. Individuals with no television often raced to pubs and bars in droves to watch on communal TV sets. At such venues, there were even reserved seating for some ardent audiences. The teeming crowd grew larger when “evictions”, held on Sunday evenings, were about to take place.

Big Brother Africa Controversies

BBA1 was praised highly in countries like South Africa, Botswana and Uganda for bridging cultural gaps, and also reviving the spirit of pan-Africanism and camaraderie among Africans.

However, the reverse was the case in some other African countries. In Zambia, BBA1 came under sharp criticism from church groups, political and religious leaders who said it was too explicit, encouraged immorality and seemed to condone casual sex in the midst of Africa’s HIV/AIDS pandemic.

They further argued that, the show portrayed scenes of nude housemates taking showers on live TV, which was not in consonant with African cultures and values. And hence, they started a petition to get the show off the state-owned TV station Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC).

Namibia’s then president, Sam Nujoma also tried to ban it by ordering the country’s national TV station Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) to stop telecasting it. But the president’s fiat fell on deaf ears just as in Zambia. Some people were of the view that the President Sam Nujoma’s “dislike” for the show may have been born out of the fact that the Namibian housemate, Stefan Ludik, was not a black Namibian and so he should not have been Namibia’s representative in the pan-African contest (there are white people in Namibia, just like in South Africa).

There were equally fierce agitations in Malawi to get this “immoral show” (as BBA1 was referred to) taken off air. Unlike in the aforementioned countries, the Malawian parliament voted to ban the daily highlight broadcast on the state broadcaster, TV Malawi (TVM). A fortnight later, a high court in Malawi repealed it, arguing that the Malawian Parliament acted outside its powers.

Carl Fisher, the “mastermind” behind the Big Brother format in Africa, was famously quoted as saying, “If (the show) didn’t generate any controversy, the project would be a failure”.

BBA1 was the highest-rated show in the history of African television. It was later aired in America on the “Africa Channel” from November 2008 to March 2009, making it the first non-American edition of Big Brother shown in the United States of America (USA).

The success and popularity of Big Brother Africa 1 led to M-Net and MultiChoice investing in more African versions of reality TV franchises like “Survivor” and “Idols” viz. Idols South Africa, Idols West Africa, Nigerian Idol and Idols East Africa.

By: Eugene Selorm Owusu

People & Lifestyle

Way To Maximize Winning With Slot E Wallet Free Credit

Published

12 hours ago

June 2, 2023

Ameyaw Debrah

What is Slot E Wallet

Slot e wallets are a type of digital wallet that allow users to store, send and receive virtual currency. They are becoming increasingly popular as they provide a convenient way for people to make payments online.

The most common form of slot e wallets is the Slot Free Credit, which is a virtual currency that can be used in various online stores and websites. With this type of wallet, users can make secure payments without having to worry about their personal information being compromised in online betting in trusted site. Additionally, they can also take advantage of the various promotions and discounts available through the use of this virtual currency.

Slot e-Wallet is a digital wallet that allows users to store, manage, and use their funds across multiple platforms. It is an easy and secure way to make payments online without having to worry about carrying cash or using credit cards.

The main benefit of using a Slot e-Wallet is that it offers free credit for slot games. This means that you can play slots without having to deposit any money into your account. This makes it an ideal choice for players who want to try out different slot games without risking their own money. Additionally, the free credit offered by the Slot e-Wallet also helps players save on transaction fees as they don’t have to pay anything when transferring funds from one platform to another.

Simple Way To Maximize Your Winning with Slot E Wallet

Having an e-wallet makes it possible for players to enjoy online gambling without having to worry about security. They also offer the convenience of being able to access funds from anywhere and at any time. In addition, they help players keep track of their gambling activities and finances. They can use their e-wallet to withdraw or deposit winnings. However, there are a few things to consider before using this option.

In order to use a slot e-wallet free, players must first create an account with the e wallet service provider. This may involve providing personal details such as their name, email address, and phone number. Once the account is created, they can then link it with their casino account. Alternatively, they can choose to link their e wallet with a different payment method. Once they have linked their e-wallet with their casino account, they can begin playing.

One of the biggest benefits of using a slot e-wallet free is that it allows players to try out different games without risking their own money especially in trusted online casino Singapore. This is especially beneficial for new players who are unfamiliar with the rules and strategies of various games. It is also a great way for players to practice their skills and improve their chances of winning real money.

Another advantage of using a slot e-wallet is that it allows players to deposit and withdraw money quickly and easily. This is because e-wallets are connected to their bank accounts, which means that they can transfer funds to and from the casino in just a few clicks. This is much faster than the process of entering card details into an online casino and it is also more secure, as the e-wallet providers have high security standards.

Lastly, many online casinos and gambling platforms offer free credit e-wallet slots to attract and retain users. This is a good way to promote new games and to encourage player loyalty. However, players should always read the terms and conditions of the games they are playing to ensure that they are safe and secure. Moreover, players should be aware of the fees and charges that apply to transactions with e-wallets.

Conclusion

To sum up, free credit casino bonuses offer players an opportunity to explore new casinos and games without taking any risks with their own money. These bonuses come in various types, such as no deposit bonuses, e-wallet slot bonuses, free spins, and exclusive bonuses. However, it is important to note that each type of bonus has its own set of terms and conditions, which players should carefully read before accepting any bonus offer. For instance, some bonuses may have wagering requirements, which means that players have to wager a certain amount of money before they can withdraw their winnings. Additionally, some bonuses may have expiry dates, so players should use them before they expire. By understanding the terms and conditions of free credit casino bonuses, players can maximize their chances of winning while minimizing the risks involved.

People & Lifestyle

Types of Online Gambling Games For Real Money

Published

12 hours ago

June 2, 2023

Ameyaw Debrah

Online gambling games have become increasingly popular in recent years. With the rise of technology and the internet, people can now enjoy the thrill of gambling from the comfort of their own homes. There are numerous online gambling games available, ranging from classic casino games like blackjack and roulette to modern video slots and sports betting.

One of the main advantages of online gambling games is their accessibility. Players can easily access a wide range of games with just a few clicks, without having to leave their homes. This convenience has made online gambling games a popular choice for many people who don’t have access to traditional brick-and-mortar casinos or who prefer the comfort and privacy of playing from home. Additionally, online gambling games often offer attractive bonuses and promotions to entice new players and reward loyal ones.

Types of Online Gambling Games

Online gambling is a popular pastime for many people around the world. There are different types of online gambling games available to suit different preferences in trusted online casino Singapore. In this section, we will explore some of the most popular types of online gambling games.

Sports Betting

Sports betting involves placing a wager on the outcome of a sporting event. This type of online gambling is popular among sports enthusiasts who enjoy predicting the outcome of games. Sports betting can be done on a variety of sports, including football, basketball, baseball, and horse racing.

Poker Games

Poker is a popular card game that involves betting and individual play. Online poker games are available in different variations, including Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and Seven Card Stud. Players can participate in cash games or tournaments, and the stakes can range from low to high.

21 Blackjack

Blackjack is a popular casino game that involves skill and strategy. The objective of the game is to beat the dealer by having a hand value closer to 21 without going over. Online blackjack games are available in different variations, including Classic Blackjack, European Blackjack, and Vegas Strip Blackjack.

Live Roulette

Roulette is a classic casino game that involves a spinning wheel and a ball. The objective of the game is to predict where the ball will land on the wheel. Online roulette games are available in different variations, including American Roulette, European Roulette, and French Roulette.

Lottery and Bingo Games

Lottery and bingo games are popular among players who enjoy games of chance. Online lottery and bingo games are available in different variations, including 75-ball bingo, 90-ball bingo, and instant win games.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Gambling Games

Online gambling games have become increasingly popular in recent years. While they offer many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider before choosing trusted online casino games. In this section, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of online gambling games.

Pro

Convenience: One of the biggest advantages of online gambling games is convenience. Players can access their favorite games from anywhere, at any time. This eliminates the need to travel to a physical casino, saving time and money.
Variety: Online gambling games offer a wide variety of games to choose from. Players can find everything from classic table games to modern video slots. This variety ensures that there is something for everyone.
Bonuses and Rewards: Online casinos offer many bonuses and rewards to their players. These can include welcome bonuses, deposit bonuses, and loyalty rewards. These bonuses can help players increase their chances of winning and make their gaming experience more enjoyable.
Privacy and Security: Online casinos use advanced security measures to protect their players’ personal and financial information. This ensures that players can enjoy their favorite games without worrying about their information being compromised.

Cons

Addiction: One of the biggest disadvantages of online gambling games is the risk of addiction. Players can easily lose track of time and money while playing, which can lead to addiction and financial problems.
Lack of Social Interaction: Online gambling games lack the social interaction that physical casinos offer. Players cannot interact with other players or dealers, which can make the gaming experience less enjoyable for some.
Technical Issues: Online gambling games can be affected by technical issues, such as slow internet connections or server problems. These issues can cause frustration for players and can even result in lost bets.
Unregulated Market: The online gambling market is largely unregulated, which can lead to scams and fraudulent activities. Players must be careful when choosing an online casino and ensure that it is licensed and regulated.

Conclusion

In conclusion, online gambling has become increasingly prevalent due to the growth of the internet and social media platforms. The line between gambling and gaming has become increasingly blurred, with digital games including monetary features such as microtransactions. This has led to concerns about the impact of online gambling on mental health, particularly among young adults.

It is important to address the potential risks associated with online gambling, particularly among young adults. Education and awareness campaigns can help individuals make informed decisions about their gambling behavior. Additionally, regulations and policies can be implemented to ensure that online gambling is conducted in a safe and responsible manner.

Overall, online gambling is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach. While virtual communities provide a way for individuals to connect with each other, it is important to address the potential risks associated with online gambling and promote safe and responsible gambling behavior.

People & Lifestyle

Best Cartoon Cakes To Surprise Your Kids On Their Birthday

Published

13 hours ago

June 2, 2023

Ameyaw Debrah

Celebrating a kid’s birthday brings joy to everyone in the family as kids used to count the day remaining before their birthday as they know they will get many gifts. A cake is something that brings charm to any celebration, and without a cake, the celebration seems incomplete.

So what would be a better way to celebrate a kid’s birthday than a cartoon cake? If you bring a cartoon cake to the birthday celebration, then surely it can make them jump on their feet with joy. Don’t look further and go through the below list, where we have compiled some famous cartoon cakes to buy online at the convenience of your couch.

1] Harry Potter Dobby Fondant Cake

Harry Potter dobby fondant cake can be the perfect cake for your kid’s birthday as Dobby is the beloved house elf from the Harry Potter franchise. The cake features a delightful sugar sheet decoration of the beloved Dobby that is not only visually stunning but also irresistibly delicious. Order this delicious and beautiful cake on your kid’s birthday and make his birthday memorable.

2] Tom And Jerry Adventure Fondant Cake

Tom and Jerry’s adventure fondant cake can bring fun to the party as Tom and Jerry is one of the funniest cartoon characters ever. The cake features a fight scene between Tom and Jerry where Jerry is holding a hammer on the top of the cake, and Tom is screaming with his tongue out in the front of the cake. The characters are crafted from sugar sheets and fondant that is too delicious to eat.

3] Panda Pinata Cake

Panda is known as the sweet and cute animal that everyone loves, including kids and grownups. So, bringing a panda pinata cake can be a delightful present for your kid on his/her birthday that can bring a smile to everyone’s face during the celebration. The cake is made with both black and white chocolates giving the cake a cute panda looks, and also it is too tasty.

4] Chota Bheem Fam Cake

Chota Bheem is the most famous cartoon that kids love to watch, and if your kid is also a fan, then ordering a Chota Bheem fam cake can be the perfect surprise for your kid on his/her birthday. The cake features a group photo of the Chota Bheem family on the top of the cake. Also, you can ask to make the cake in your kid’s favorite flavor to make him/her happy.

5] Micky Mouse Cake

Micky Mouse is everyone’s favorite, and your kid will surely love to have a Micky Mouse cake on his/her birthday. This cake is made with fluffy and creamy textures with a smiling Micky mouse on the top of the cake also; you can order this cake in various flavors like chocolate, butterscotch, and strawberry.

Many online shops are making Micky Mouse theme cakes with convenient delivery options, such as Floweraura cake delivery in Bangalore, Delhi, Mumbai and all over India is famous for its safe and on-time delivery of such a themed cake. So, if you are celebrating your kid’s birthday in Bangalore, then you must consider them along with various other online cake shops.

6] Spiderman Photo Cake

Spiderman photo cake can be the perfect cake for your kid’s birthday if he/she loves one of the most famous superheroes of all time. You can order the cake in the flavor of your kid’s choice, whether it’s chocolate or strawberry, and on the top of the cake, a photo of Spiderman in the famous pose gives the cake a spectacular look.

7] Goofy Minion Theme Cake

Goofy Minion theme cake is perfect for a kid’s birthday, as kids used to love cute, little, and naughty minions. The cake is made with the combination of flavors chocolate and strawberry, and the minion on the top is made with creamy white and black chocolate. Order this goofy minion theme cake for your mischievous kid to bring a smile to his/her face.

8] Fun Doraemon Theme Cake

Everyone wants a friend like Doraemon in their life who can look after them in every situation. So, bringing a fun Doraemon theme cake can be very special for your kid. The cake features a cute Doraemon on the top made that is made with melted chocolate icing. Order this fun Doraemon theme cake online and have it delivered to your doorstep to surprise your kid on his/her birthday.

Conclusion

Cartoon cakes can be the best choice for your kid’s birthday; they will bring smiles and fun to the celebration. For your convenience, we have suggested top cartoon-theme cakes in this article that you can buy online and have delivered to your doorstep. From Harry Potter Dobby fondant cake to fun Doraemon theme cake, there is something to suit all types of kids.

People & Lifestyle

Advantages of using the Javelot Mini as both a close-range and an every-day-carry flashlight

Published

13 hours ago

June 2, 2023

Ameyaw Debrah

The Javelot Mini is a compact EDC flashlight that offers several benefits as both a long-range and everyday carry (EDC) flashlight. Here are some of its key advantages:

Long-range capability

The Javelot Mini is specifically designed for long-range flashlights. It features a powerful LED with a high intensity that can reach impressive distances. This makes it an ideal choice for activities such as outdoor exploration, search and rescue operations, and long-range target identification. However, these modes allow you to adjust the brightness level according to your needs. The strobe mode can be particularly useful for self-defense purposes or as a distress signal.

Rechargeable and efficient

The Javelot Mini often features a rechargeable battery, eliminating the need for constant battery replacements. However, with its efficient power management, it offers extended runtime on a single charge. This not only saves you money in the long run but also reduces waste generated by disposable batteries.

User-friendly interface

The Javelot Mini typically features a user-friendly interface with a simple switch or button operation. This makes it easy to switch between lighting modes or activate the flashlight quickly, even in stressful situations or low-light conditions.

Wide range of applications

Due to its long-range capabilities and compact design, the Javelot Mini is suitable for various applications. However, it can be used for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and hunting, as well as for professional purposes such as law enforcement, security, and emergency preparedness.

Precision and target identification

The Javelot Mini’s focused and powerful beam allows for precise targeting and identification of objects or points of interest at long distances. Whether you’re navigating through a dark environment, surveying a large area, or looking for specific landmarks, the flashlight’s beam can help you clearly distinguish details and make accurate assessments.

Enhanced safety and security

As a long-range flashlight, the Javelot Mini can contribute to your safety and security. It provides increased visibility in low-light or dark environments, helping you to identify potential hazards, navigate unfamiliar surroundings, and maintain situational awareness. This can be particularly beneficial during outdoor adventures, nighttime walks, or emergency situations.

Tactical applications

The Javelot Mini’s features and capabilities make it a valuable tool for tactical use. Its long-range beam can assist law enforcement professionals, security personnel, and military personnel in operations requiring long-distance illumination, target acquisition, or signaling. The flashlight’s compact size also makes it convenient for mounting on firearms or tactical gear.

Energy-efficient and eco-friendly

The Javelot Mini typically utilizes energy-efficient LED technology, which provides a bright output while consuming minimal power. This translates to longer battery life and reduced energy consumption compared to traditional incandescent flashlights. By opting for a rechargeable version of the Javelot Mini, you can further minimize waste from disposable batteries and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle.

Versatile mounting options

Many EDC flashlights, including the Javelot Mini, offer compatible accessories for mounting or attaching to various platforms. These may include belt clips, pocket clips, lanyards, or dedicated holsters. Such mounting options allow for easy accessibility and hands-free use, enhancing the flashlight’s convenience and usability as an EDC tool.

Emergency Preparedness

The Javelot Mini’s long-range capabilities and durable construction make it an excellent addition to your emergency preparedness kit. In case of power outages, natural disasters, or other emergencies, having a reliable and long-range flashlight can provide critical illumination, aid in search and rescue efforts, and offer a sense of security.

Light customization

Depending on the specific model, the Javelot Mini may offer additional features like adjustable focus or beam intensity. These customization options allow you to adapt the flashlight’s light output to suit different scenarios or personal preferences. For example, you can narrow the beam for long-range illumination or widen it for broader coverage in close quarters.

Conclusion

Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines when using any flashlight, including the Javelot Mini. The Javelot Mini combines long-range capabilities, portability, durability, and user-friendly features to provide a reliable and high-performance flashlight for long-distance illumination. Whether you’re engaging in outdoor activities, require a dependable tool for professional use, or seek a versatile EDC flashlight, the Javelot Mini is designed to meet your needs.

People & Lifestyle

Learn To Read Foundation Promotes Reading Skills Among Children

Published

13 hours ago

June 2, 2023

Ameyaw Debrah

Learn To Read Foundation Promotes Reading Skills Among Children 1

On the 20th of May 2023, an exciting and educational event organized by Learn to Read Foundation in Partnership with Standout Care, Accra Legacy Virtual Leo-Club and Ashesi Leo-Club took place at the Kathy Knowles Library, drawing in a large number of 86 enthusiastic children and 65 dedicated volunteers.

The event aimed to promote reading skills among children while providing valuable health education and fostering a sense of community.

The event commenced with a vibrant reading session, where volunteers offered their support to the children in developing their reading skills. Children were grouped with volunteers, who identified those facing difficulties with pronunciation and reading. This personalized attention allowed for effective guidance and support to enhance the children’s reading abilities.

Following the reading session, an educational and interactive session on maintaining good health was conducted by a health professional. The children were taught about the importance of dental hygiene, with a practical demonstration of proper tooth brushing techniques. They also learned about the frequency of brushing and the importance of avoiding using teeth to open items such as bottles. Some children were called upon to demonstrate the correct brushing technique to their peers, facilitating practical learning.

In addition to dental hygiene, the children were educated about the significance of maintaining good overall hygiene. The session covered topics such as bathing and washing hands, particularly before eating and after using the restroom. The importance of these habits for overall health and well-being was emphasized.

Volunteers from various foundations had the opportunity to network and connect with each other. A picture session captured the joyful moments of collaboration and shared commitment. This networking event fostered a sense of community among the volunteers and further strengthened the collective efforts to support the children.

The event witnessed an overwhelming response, with more volunteers and children joining throughout the day to support and participate. Volunteers highlighted the excellent cooperation and active involvement of the children, signifying the success of efforts to instill a reading culture among the younger generation.

The event at Kathy Knowles Library was a resounding success, bringing together children, volunteers, and health professionals in a dynamic and educational environment. The activities aimed at improving reading skills, promoting health awareness, and fostering a sense of community proved highly effective. The event not only provided valuable knowledge but also encouraged personal growth and the spirit of giving back to the community.

Learn To Read Foundation thanked the organizers, students from Al-Rayan International School, and volunteers at Kathy Knowles Community Library for their invaluable support and generosity in hosting this event.

People & Lifestyle

Ericsson discusses collaborative opportunities for digital advancement in Ghana

Published

16 hours ago

June 1, 2023

Ameyaw Debrah

The team from Ericsson with some executives of the National Communications Authority NCA

Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) affirms its commitment to Africa by concluding leadership led visit delegation engaging with key partners, customers, and industry leaders in Ghana. The engagement accentuates Ericsson’s dedication to advancing Africa’s Information Communication Technology (ICT) and network infrastructure, enabling sustainable connectivity, bridging the digital divide, and driving digital transformation across Africa.

The visit is the latest in Ericsson’s #AfricaInMotion journey and saw Ericsson executives engaging in constructive dialogues with Ghana’s communication service providers (CSPs) and country’s stakeholders on pivotal topics in the nation’s communication industry. These ranged from enhancing network infrastructure, expanding access to broadband and high-speed internet connectivity, and driving digital inclusion across the country. Discussions also centered on fostering an ecosystem of collaboration to increase digital literacy, meet the evolving requirements of the Ghanaian market, and facilitate the deployment of advanced technologies, such as 5G as a platform to enable local market innovation.

Ericsson has a long history of partnerships in Ghana and has worked closely with its partners over the years to build a resilient telecom infrastructure in the country and across the continent including Ericsson’s collaboration with works with the African Telecommunications Union (ATU) on spectrum recommendations that support Africa’s transformation into a knowledge economy through the development of technologies that boost connectivity and innovation paving the way for new advanced technologies such as 5G and beyond.

Last year, Ericsson received the 5G Technological Innovations Award at the Ghana Information and Technology and Telecoms Awards (GITTA) for its pioneering role in building sustainable and energy-efficient 5G network infrastructures across Africa. With a focus on nurturing the next generation of talent and empowering them to drive innovation and contribute to Ghana’s growth, Ericsson had launched a graduate program that provides fresh graduates in Ghana with on-the-job and project-based learning opportunities in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and advanced technologies. The company aims to continue on this journey through various programs that support talent, innovation and entrepreneurship.

As digital literacy and financial inclusion take on increasing significance at the national level, Ericsson has made it a priority to expand the reach and amplify the impact of mobile money in Ghana. Ericsson aims to increase collaboration with local CSPs to bolster the accessibility and utilization of telecommunications technologies to contribute to Ghana’s economic growth.