Sunday 26 January 2020
Weekend WOW Factor: The Markle Effect
Well, it's old news now that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex ( otherwise known as Harry and Megan) decided to step down as senior royals and relocate to Canada, and despite the mega furore that ensued, my thoughts were.... hmmmm.... could there be a 'fallout' for black women in the UK?.
I must admit that for an entire week, I was quietly hooked on the heated debates, both online and off. This was 'Love Island' ...Royal style.
I jest of course... I don't watch Love Island.
Some comments in threads online, even on reputable professional talk programs, were really reprehensible, and a bit scary when you consider it could be anyone writing that stuff 'anonymously', but hey, it is what it is.
There were two main narratives concerning what happened.
One being that racism was at play and ultimately, 'attitudes', became too unbearable for the couple, and they had to flee.
The other narrative being that it's about duty, and Megan 'simply not trying hard enough to fit in.
That both seem to revolve around Megan is funny - but hey, again.. it is what it is.
In truth, nobody knows, but I wondered if the anger of the people would, or could, reach a tipping point, with black women becoming a target for covert and overt 'you took our Prince'...hostilities.
Some may say what's new, but even as hot coals begin to turn to embers, a little raking up could set them ablaze again
Pushy , demanding, disrespectful, were just a few adjectives that I heard repeated over and over.
Will black women receive side eyes?, be denied a seat on the tube? - recieve unpleasant customer service?
If so, could it be that we would be witnessing, could hence forth be known as 'The Markle Effect?'.
It was as if my thoughts were being voiced, as leaving my home one morning, I received a very cheery 'good morning', from a random builder, and was also given first dibs getting on a bus.
It's ok guys... relax lol.
There are numerous ironies about the whole thing - after all, it's not as if Prince Harry married Lupita Nyong'o, you know, the dark skinned Kenyan beauty.
No, he married Megan Markle, who, by most accounts, looks racially ambiguous, with a similar complexion to his own.
The only way, the UK were really able to 'place' Megan's racial background, was.... her mother.
Megan's mother looks like a black woman.
To date, her mother seems to have done no wrong publicity wise.
Her father however and sister, both white, seem a little 'rough' but it's to them, that the media turned to, to further add salt to the wound.
In truth, one hopes that their love and marriage will last.
For Prince Harry, his most upsetting loss, may be losing his military titles, and we pray that he will never utter in anger the words - 'I gave it all up for you'
They have both made sacrifices, and the wise among us may say that ... love - is a gamble.
I'm sure there's a 'Corinthians' chapter in there somewhere... ( look it up - I'm feeling lazy)
At the end of the day, the Royal Family just became that bit more boring - as Megan and Harry are a good looking couple, with a little bit of X factor.
Once the dust settles, and Brexit is back on the front pages, it would be great if the brothers can rebuild their relatiosnhip, and become close once more , including their wives.
We all love a happy ending after all.
I must admit that for an entire week, I was quietly hooked on the heated debates, both online and off. This was 'Love Island' ...Royal style.
I jest of course... I don't watch Love Island.
Some comments in threads online, even on reputable professional talk programs, were really reprehensible, and a bit scary when you consider it could be anyone writing that stuff 'anonymously', but hey, it is what it is.
There were two main narratives concerning what happened.
One being that racism was at play and ultimately, 'attitudes', became too unbearable for the couple, and they had to flee.
The other narrative being that it's about duty, and Megan 'simply not trying hard enough to fit in.
That both seem to revolve around Megan is funny - but hey, again.. it is what it is.
In truth, nobody knows, but I wondered if the anger of the people would, or could, reach a tipping point, with black women becoming a target for covert and overt 'you took our Prince'...hostilities.
Some may say what's new, but even as hot coals begin to turn to embers, a little raking up could set them ablaze again
Pushy , demanding, disrespectful, were just a few adjectives that I heard repeated over and over.
Will black women receive side eyes?, be denied a seat on the tube? - recieve unpleasant customer service?
If so, could it be that we would be witnessing, could hence forth be known as 'The Markle Effect?'.
It was as if my thoughts were being voiced, as leaving my home one morning, I received a very cheery 'good morning', from a random builder, and was also given first dibs getting on a bus.
It's ok guys... relax lol.
There are numerous ironies about the whole thing - after all, it's not as if Prince Harry married Lupita Nyong'o, you know, the dark skinned Kenyan beauty.
No, he married Megan Markle, who, by most accounts, looks racially ambiguous, with a similar complexion to his own.
The only way, the UK were really able to 'place' Megan's racial background, was.... her mother.
Megan's mother looks like a black woman.
To date, her mother seems to have done no wrong publicity wise.
Her father however and sister, both white, seem a little 'rough' but it's to them, that the media turned to, to further add salt to the wound.
In truth, one hopes that their love and marriage will last.
For Prince Harry, his most upsetting loss, may be losing his military titles, and we pray that he will never utter in anger the words - 'I gave it all up for you'
They have both made sacrifices, and the wise among us may say that ... love - is a gamble.
I'm sure there's a 'Corinthians' chapter in there somewhere... ( look it up - I'm feeling lazy)
At the end of the day, the Royal Family just became that bit more boring - as Megan and Harry are a good looking couple, with a little bit of X factor.
Once the dust settles, and Brexit is back on the front pages, it would be great if the brothers can rebuild their relatiosnhip, and become close once more , including their wives.
We all love a happy ending after all.
Weekend WOW Factor: Is Ex President Yaya Jammeh Feeling Homesick?
Whilst thousands of supporters of former President of the Gambia Yaya Jammeh have displayed a desire for the big man to return, apparently the feeling is mutual, with leaked tapes of Jammeh suggesting the former President is keen to return 'home'.
All this, amidst the increasing pressure being mounted by the 3yrs Jotna movement demanding that current President, Adama Barrow honours his 'gentleman's agreement' and steps down, now that his 3 yrs is up.
Protests today turned violent, as police fired teargas to disperse crowds that had gathered for a rally.
Constitutionally, Barrow can remain for 5yrs , however, it's his initial promise to the people that he will serve just 3yrs that he now has to reckon with.
If the unrest continues, we may just see a return of Jammeh, despite reports that he will face arrest if he returns to the Gambia.
Citizens may be frustrated with Barrow's government, but dare I say it's really too early to tell. 3yrs in political leadership ( in Africa) really isn't that long.
Surely the reports of the exploitation of children by foreigners is far more worrying.
It's not news that westerners have been visiting the Gambia for years to covet sex ( I have personally witnessed old men 'with' young Gambian girls on beaches) but reports that children as young as 10 are now being targeted, is highly worrying.
Any headline such as this is jarring.
This is far more worthy of protesting against ...than an additional 2yrs.... surely.
But that's just my initial thoughts on the matter......
Tourism is a huge financial benefit to The Gambia - but visitors should be informed that 'people' are not for sale.
All this, amidst the increasing pressure being mounted by the 3yrs Jotna movement demanding that current President, Adama Barrow honours his 'gentleman's agreement' and steps down, now that his 3 yrs is up.
Protests today turned violent, as police fired teargas to disperse crowds that had gathered for a rally.
Constitutionally, Barrow can remain for 5yrs , however, it's his initial promise to the people that he will serve just 3yrs that he now has to reckon with.
If the unrest continues, we may just see a return of Jammeh, despite reports that he will face arrest if he returns to the Gambia.
Citizens may be frustrated with Barrow's government, but dare I say it's really too early to tell. 3yrs in political leadership ( in Africa) really isn't that long.
Surely the reports of the exploitation of children by foreigners is far more worrying.
It's not news that westerners have been visiting the Gambia for years to covet sex ( I have personally witnessed old men 'with' young Gambian girls on beaches) but reports that children as young as 10 are now being targeted, is highly worrying.
Any headline such as this is jarring.
This is far more worthy of protesting against ...than an additional 2yrs.... surely.
But that's just my initial thoughts on the matter......
Tourism is a huge financial benefit to The Gambia - but visitors should be informed that 'people' are not for sale.
Thursday 23 January 2020
Sunday 12 January 2020
Weekend WOW Factor: Nigeria's Civil War - 50 Years On
War is a brutal thing.
The Nigerian civil war is rarely spoken of, so it's good to see and hear several discussions to mark its 50 years anniversary, and to hear of the 'Enough is Enough Summit, having taken place, which included several members of civil society institutions.
Watching this edition of Channels tonight, I feel it's inhumane to have surviving soldiers living in such unpleasant conditions.
It provides evidence to the saying 'out of sight - out of mind'
Paint the building , erect a decent sign, provide electricity and sanitation.
That's the least that can, and should be done.
Why Nigeria doesn't teach its own history in schools is beyond me, but what's clear is that Truth and reconciliation panels needs to be put in place, especially as we have seen it work effectivly in other climes.
Nigeria appears more ethnically divided than ever , which begs the question -
Were the lessons learnt to avoid such a thing ever happening again?
The Nigerian civil war is rarely spoken of, so it's good to see and hear several discussions to mark its 50 years anniversary, and to hear of the 'Enough is Enough Summit, having taken place, which included several members of civil society institutions.
Watching this edition of Channels tonight, I feel it's inhumane to have surviving soldiers living in such unpleasant conditions.
It provides evidence to the saying 'out of sight - out of mind'
Paint the building , erect a decent sign, provide electricity and sanitation.
That's the least that can, and should be done.
Why Nigeria doesn't teach its own history in schools is beyond me, but what's clear is that Truth and reconciliation panels needs to be put in place, especially as we have seen it work effectivly in other climes.
Nigeria appears more ethnically divided than ever , which begs the question -
Were the lessons learnt to avoid such a thing ever happening again?
Sunday 5 January 2020
Saturday 4 January 2020
Weekend WOW Factor: Nigeria Needs A Woman President
As if you really need anymore evidence ..
This is just too funny lol!!
Nigeria's house of commons (2019) - no, not commoners you cheeky lot - I said commons!
Who's the one checking his side piece messages on the phone LOL!!
( Did I say side piece?.. ahem..I meant .. very important document of course)
1st order of business
Give these guys a bowl of oats with a banana in it - that energy release
2nd - Orange Juice :)
( None needed for Dino - seems like he's had enough )
This is just too funny lol!!
Nigeria's house of commons (2019) - no, not commoners you cheeky lot - I said commons!
Who's the one checking his side piece messages on the phone LOL!!
( Did I say side piece?.. ahem..I meant .. very important document of course)
1st order of business
Give these guys a bowl of oats with a banana in it - that energy release
2nd - Orange Juice :)
( None needed for Dino - seems like he's had enough )
Weekend WOW Factor: President Barrow's 'Gentleman's Agreement' & Have you read the Nigerian Constitution?
Gambian Constitution
In January 2017, after 22 years in power, President Jammeh was forced to leave office.
In stepped President Barrow ( and those big brown eyes)
okay enjoy that one and smile - don't get big headed tho :)
At the time, Barrow uttered words that he has no doubt come to regret. He will 'step down in 3 years'.
Well...3 years is now up, and many Gambian's are agitated.
In truth, the handsome President Barrow, has a right to 5 years according to the constitution, and I suspect that will be his stance in the coming weeks and months.
The three year Jotna movement ( meaning, three years is up ,in Wollof) has been gaining some traction, and more protests are expected in the coming weeks..
( The easy going Gambian chill seemed to have left on the plane with Jammeh)
President Barrow romanced us all.. but if he steps down after just 3 years (which would be admirable) I will be utterly surprised, and maybe even. little disappointed
Yes his food bill may be quite high ( he does has two wives)
but perhaps.... just maybe...allow him the benefit of the doubt - and the full 5 years
**
'People who don't know their rights cannot be expected to fight for them'
Nigeria's constitution with it's aims of building a nation is actually quite comprehensive, and has equally admirable intentions.
Yet how many average Nigerians will have read it?
Some will never be able to read it ( 1. not everyone can read - 2. not everyone can read English, 3. how many have the time?)- and those who do, may adapt it to suit their own needs when sharing information on its contents.
Political education for everyday people, really is a must, in a country divided by class culturism and tribalism.
Yet that's not enough.
More useful would be the act of bringing the constitution to life, enabling people to see the role that they play in building a country they can be proud of. To feel that despite the ethnic differences, they choose to come together as one, and afford each other the respect care and honour, they would like to receive in return.
Here are a few snippets..
(1) The motto of the Federal Republic of Nigeria shall be Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress.
(2) Accordingly, national integration shall be actively encouraged, whilst discrimination on the grounds of place of origin, sex, religion, status, ethnic or linguistic association or ties shall be prohibited.
(3) For the purpose of promoting national integration, it shall be the duty of the State to:
(a) provide adequate facilities for and encourage free mobility of people, goods and
services throughtout the Federation.
(b) secure full residence rights for every citizen in all parts of the Federation.
(c) encourage inter-marriage among persons from different places of origin, or of different religious, ethnic or linguistic association or ties; and
(d) promote or encourage the formation of associations that cut across ethnic, linguistic, religious and or other sectional barriers.
(4) The State shall foster a feeling of belonging and of involvement among the various people of the Federation, to the end that loyalty to the nation shall override sectional loyalties.
(5) The State shall abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power.
18. (1) Government shall direct its policy towards ensuring that there are equal and adequate educational
opportunities at all levels.
(2) Government shall promote science and technology
(3) Government shall strive to eradicate illiteracy; and to this end Government shall as and when practicable provide
(a) free, compulsory and universal primary education; (b) free secondary education;
(c) free university education; and
(d) free adult literacy programme.
19. The foreign policy objectives shall be -
(a) promotion and protection of the national interest;
(b) promotion of African integration and support for African unity;
(c) promotion of international co-operation for the consolidation of universal peace and mutual respect among all nations and elimination of discrimination in all its manifestations;
(d) respect for international law and treaty obligations as well as the seeking of settlement of international disputes by negotiation, mediation, conciliation, arbitration and adjudication; and
(e) promotion of a just world economic order.
20. The State shall protect and improve the environment and safeguard the water, air and land, forest and wildlife of Nigeria.
21. The State shall -
(a) protect, preserve and promote the Nigerian cultures which enhance human dignity and are consistent with the fundamental objectives as provided in this Chapter; and
(b) encourage development of technological and scientific studies which enhance cultural values.
22. The press, radio, television and other agencies of the mass media shall at all times be free to uphold the fundamental objectives contained in this Chapter and uphold the responsibility and accountability of the Government to the people.
23. The national ethics shall be Discipline, Integrity, Dignity of Labour, Social, Justice, Religious Tolerance, Self-reliance and Patriotism.
24. It shall be the duty of every citizen to -
(a) abide by this Constitution, respect its ideals and its institutions, the National
Flag, the National Anthem, the National Pledge, and legitimate authorities;
(b) help to enhance the power, prestige and good name of Nigeria, defend Nigeria and render such national service as may be required;
(c) respect the dignity of other citizens and the rights and legitimate interests of others and live in unity and harmony and in the spirit of common brotherhood;
(d) make positive and useful contribution to the advancement, progress and well- being of the community where he resides;
(e) render assistance to appropriate and lawful agencies in the maintenance of law and order; and
(f) declare his income honestly to appropriate and lawful agencies and pay his tax promptly.
Check it out in full - with such guidelines in place - what more do you need? :)
In January 2017, after 22 years in power, President Jammeh was forced to leave office.
In stepped President Barrow ( and those big brown eyes)
okay enjoy that one and smile - don't get big headed tho :)
At the time, Barrow uttered words that he has no doubt come to regret. He will 'step down in 3 years'.
Well...3 years is now up, and many Gambian's are agitated.
In truth, the handsome President Barrow, has a right to 5 years according to the constitution, and I suspect that will be his stance in the coming weeks and months.
The three year Jotna movement ( meaning, three years is up ,in Wollof) has been gaining some traction, and more protests are expected in the coming weeks..
( The easy going Gambian chill seemed to have left on the plane with Jammeh)
President Barrow romanced us all.. but if he steps down after just 3 years (which would be admirable) I will be utterly surprised, and maybe even. little disappointed
Yes his food bill may be quite high ( he does has two wives)
but perhaps.... just maybe...allow him the benefit of the doubt - and the full 5 years
**
'People who don't know their rights cannot be expected to fight for them'
Nigeria's constitution with it's aims of building a nation is actually quite comprehensive, and has equally admirable intentions.
Yet how many average Nigerians will have read it?
Some will never be able to read it ( 1. not everyone can read - 2. not everyone can read English, 3. how many have the time?)- and those who do, may adapt it to suit their own needs when sharing information on its contents.
Political education for everyday people, really is a must, in a country divided by class culturism and tribalism.
Yet that's not enough.
More useful would be the act of bringing the constitution to life, enabling people to see the role that they play in building a country they can be proud of. To feel that despite the ethnic differences, they choose to come together as one, and afford each other the respect care and honour, they would like to receive in return.
Here are a few snippets..
(1) The motto of the Federal Republic of Nigeria shall be Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress.
(2) Accordingly, national integration shall be actively encouraged, whilst discrimination on the grounds of place of origin, sex, religion, status, ethnic or linguistic association or ties shall be prohibited.
(3) For the purpose of promoting national integration, it shall be the duty of the State to:
(a) provide adequate facilities for and encourage free mobility of people, goods and
services throughtout the Federation.
(b) secure full residence rights for every citizen in all parts of the Federation.
(c) encourage inter-marriage among persons from different places of origin, or of different religious, ethnic or linguistic association or ties; and
(d) promote or encourage the formation of associations that cut across ethnic, linguistic, religious and or other sectional barriers.
(4) The State shall foster a feeling of belonging and of involvement among the various people of the Federation, to the end that loyalty to the nation shall override sectional loyalties.
(5) The State shall abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power.
18. (1) Government shall direct its policy towards ensuring that there are equal and adequate educational
opportunities at all levels.
(2) Government shall promote science and technology
(3) Government shall strive to eradicate illiteracy; and to this end Government shall as and when practicable provide
(a) free, compulsory and universal primary education; (b) free secondary education;
(c) free university education; and
(d) free adult literacy programme.
19. The foreign policy objectives shall be -
(a) promotion and protection of the national interest;
(b) promotion of African integration and support for African unity;
(c) promotion of international co-operation for the consolidation of universal peace and mutual respect among all nations and elimination of discrimination in all its manifestations;
(d) respect for international law and treaty obligations as well as the seeking of settlement of international disputes by negotiation, mediation, conciliation, arbitration and adjudication; and
(e) promotion of a just world economic order.
20. The State shall protect and improve the environment and safeguard the water, air and land, forest and wildlife of Nigeria.
21. The State shall -
(a) protect, preserve and promote the Nigerian cultures which enhance human dignity and are consistent with the fundamental objectives as provided in this Chapter; and
(b) encourage development of technological and scientific studies which enhance cultural values.
22. The press, radio, television and other agencies of the mass media shall at all times be free to uphold the fundamental objectives contained in this Chapter and uphold the responsibility and accountability of the Government to the people.
23. The national ethics shall be Discipline, Integrity, Dignity of Labour, Social, Justice, Religious Tolerance, Self-reliance and Patriotism.
24. It shall be the duty of every citizen to -
(a) abide by this Constitution, respect its ideals and its institutions, the National
Flag, the National Anthem, the National Pledge, and legitimate authorities;
(b) help to enhance the power, prestige and good name of Nigeria, defend Nigeria and render such national service as may be required;
(c) respect the dignity of other citizens and the rights and legitimate interests of others and live in unity and harmony and in the spirit of common brotherhood;
(d) make positive and useful contribution to the advancement, progress and well- being of the community where he resides;
(e) render assistance to appropriate and lawful agencies in the maintenance of law and order; and
(f) declare his income honestly to appropriate and lawful agencies and pay his tax promptly.
Check it out in full - with such guidelines in place - what more do you need? :)
Wednesday 1 January 2020
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