politics
News Brief
Nobantu Shabangu
Nov. 23, 2020 04:27AM EST
Photo by Erik Valestrand/Getty Images

OSLO, NORWAY - DECEMBER 10: Ethiopia's Prime Minister and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Abiy Ahmed Ali speaks on stage after being awarded with the Nobel Peace Prize during the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony 2019 at Oslo City Town Hall on December 10, 2019 in Oslo, Norway. The Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, has been jointly awarded the 2019 Nobel Peace Prize in recognition for his efforts to achieve peace and international cooperation, and in particular for his decisive initiative to resolve the border conflict with neighbouring Eritrea.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Gives Tigray 72 Hours to Surrender Amidst Rising Attacks

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has given Tigray militants 72 hours to surrender as Ethiopian army advances on the region.

According to The Guardian, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has reportedly given Tigray militants 72 hours to surrender. This comes after weeks of violent attacks in the region. Ahmed declared a state of emergency three weeks ago when Tigrayan forces allegedly looted an Ethiopian army base in Mekelle. The Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) have reportedly killed hundreds and displaced thousands, affecting neighbouring countries Eritrea and Sudan. Ahmed issued a call for surrender on Sunday evening, this according to VoA News.

READ: The Army Has Been Deployed in Ethiopia Amid Deadly Protests

Ahmed, released a statement on Sunday directed at the TPLF. Part of the statement reads: "Your journey of destruction is coming to an end, and we urge you to surrender peacefully within the next 72 hours, recognising you are at a point of no return. Take this last opportunity."

The Ethiopian army has reportedly fired airstrikes into the region with Tigray attacked with missiles in Amhara. Furthermore, the TPLF has fired missiles into neighbouring country Eritrea for reportedly supporting Ahmed's call for the TPLF to submit themselves to the Ethiopian government. The Guardian reports that over 36 000 Ethiopians have since fled to Sudan in the wake of these attacks. The United Nations (UN) reports that they expect 200 000 refugees should the regional war continue.

Head of the African Union and South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa, reportedly gathered three former presidents to mediate between the TPLF and Ahmed's government. However, the Ethiopian government rejected the intervention claiming that the conflict is an internal "law enforcement" mission. The Ethiopian government instead called for Tigrayans to put pressure on TPLF to end the regional war.

Reports on the Tigray crisis have been difficult due to intermittent internet shutdowns allegedly caused by the Ethiopian government. Additionally, Ahmed reportedly cut government funds to Tigray after the TPLF held elections despite the Prime Minister's postponement. This a contributing factor for the alleged conflict. Tigray regional forces show no signs of surrendering despite reports of retreat following the Ethiopian's army advancement. Communication and transport services have been severely hampered since the regional attacks started.

The full statement was also released on Twitter via the Prime Minister's account.

From Your Site Articles
Related Articles Around the Web
ethiopiatigray crisisabiy ahmedpolitics
Design
Photo courtesy of Rediet Haddis by Nafkot Ayele

Spotlight: Ethiopian Artist Rediet Haddis Is Her Own Cultural Muse

We spoke with the visual artist about the importance of identity and honoring forgotten cultures and the value they bring to society.

In our 'Spotlight' series, we highlight the work of photographers, visual artists, multimedia artists, and more who are producing vibrant, original work.

In our latest piece, we spotlight Ethiopian visual artist and designer Rediet Haddis. The fashion designer and architect is feeling her way through a human experience decorated in the brightest colors and has a keen understanding and appreciation for her East African culture. Haddis's experimental creative expression manifests as an ode to the ancient history and ideologies of the thinkers and creators who came before. Each garment and design carries significant context, marrying the realities of the past to the happenings of today through vivid colors, flamboyant accessories, and a deep desire to capture human emotion. Through her project Re:d Visuals, Haddis has poured her blessings onto the lane set to grant African artists the privilege of creating from the heart, for the people, and by the people.

We spoke with Rediet about experiencing Ethiopia's history and heritage through the lens of beauty and design.

Responses have been edited for length and clarity.


What was your first creation and how much have you grown since?

I would say my first ever creation was my first design in Architecture school. I made a glass house out of a cargo container, and I that helped me understand my intentions as a creative. Ever since then, I've slowly figured out what I want to represent and research when it comes to serving myself and my society with intentions.

What are the central themes in your work?

My art focuses on creating awareness around cultures that hold significant value in society even though sometimes they might be overlooked, overshadowed, and forgotten.

What is your medium of choice? Why?

I'm a visual artist, so I use mediums that prioritize sight and touch. I play around with mediums like fashion design, styling, set design, stage design, digital art, and hand painting.

What do you believe sets African artists apart from the rest of the world?

I believe all artists regardless of where they are from have significant distinctions as long as what they do comes from true intentions. As an artist from Ethiopia, Africa, I try my best to represent my background by researching the heritage and history of the people that came before me. By doing so, my art distinctly shines a light on what it is to be Ethiopian through my own experiences allowing me to have a voice and an opinion on specific norms.

Can you talk about your use of colors and accessories?

As a visual artist colors play a huge role in my career. I choose colors that would work best with a given project by experimenting with their combination until I land on something that makes sense to me. The same goes for accessories, by researching and collecting various elements, I play around with my collections trying to figure out the best composition.

What’s something you wish someone had told you at the beginning of your journey?

That it would be a very long journey ahead and that I would have to try time and time again to get to where I envisioned. But, again, I probably had that advice then. It's not so much about the destination anymore, but definitely about the journey.

Photo courtesy of Rediet Haddis

Ethiopian artist Rediet Haddis

News Brief
Photo Credit: irontrybex

Kenyan Senator Sparks Debate About "Period Shaming"

Kenyan Senator Gloria Orwoba received opposition from colleagues after pulling off a stunt to raise awareness around "period stigma."

A Kenyan senator was relieved from her duties at the Kenyan parliament after attending a Senate hearing session wearing a white suit stained with red, in what was a menstrual activism campaign.

The senator is Gloria Orwoba and she is a part of the ruling coalition. On Tuesday afternoon, she was due to table a motion on a bill that would give out free sanitary pads to some of Kenya's underprivileged. During the session, Kenyan senators disrupted Tuesday’s afternoon senate session to draw the Speaker’s attention to Orwoba’s “inappropriate dress code."

In response to the allegations, Orwoba protested that it was unbecoming for members of the parliament to call her out because she was on her menstrual cycle.

“I am shocked that someone can stand here and say that the House has been disgraced because a woman has had her periods,” Orwoba said.

In response to her comment, Amason Kingi, Speaker of the Senate of Kenya, asked Orwoba to change her outfit before returning to the chambers.

“Having periods is never a crime… Senator Gloria, I sympathize with you that you are going through the natural act of menstruation, you have stained your wonderful suit, I’m asking you to leave so that you go change and come back with clothes that are not stained,” Kingi said, according to BBC.

According to The Star, the stain was artificial coloring, and not blood.

While talking to BBC, Orwoba said that she was proud of the stance she took in an effort to dismantle period shame.

"Since I am always advocating against period shame, I thought I should go ahead and walk the talk," Orwoba said.

Following the incident, several senators criticized her stance, stating that it was not appropriate.

Tabitha Mutinda, an active member of the senate stated that she found Orwoba's conduct uncomfortable and inappropriate.

"You don't understand if she's on the normal woman cycle or she's faking it, and it is so indecent," Mutinda said before adding that there were better ways to address the issue.

Orwoba is advocating for a motion that increase government funding for free female hygiene products and menstrual pads in all public schools, and end "period stigma." The incident at the senate building was apart of her advocacy.

In an interview with Hot 96 FM in Kenya, Orwoba said she has received hateful comments on social media since her act. So much so that she talked about stepping away from social media.

“This thing of having thick skin is not for the faint-hearted. In fact, I am really contemplating leaving Twitter…that whole cyber-bullying has gotten to me. It’s intense and it gets to you,” Orwoba said.

Music
(Kwesi Arthur/YouTube)

Ghanaian Rapper Kwesi Arthur Shares Visuals For ‘Pain Interlude’

Watch Kwesi Arthur’s inspiring new video for his latest single “Pain interlude.”

Kwesi Arthurhas released the music video to his song “Pain Interlude.” The visuals, which were entirely shot in black-and-white, chronicle the life of a boxer who goes through challenges, but ultimately overcomes due to his consistency and grit. The record “Pain Interlude” is a continuation of the Ghana music artist's journey as someone who's building his career and cementing his signature sound.

Kwesi Arthur, born Emmanuel Kwesi Danso Arthur Junior, hails from Tema, a metropolis in Ghana. The rapper, singer and song-writer first gained widespread attention with his 2017 single "Grind Day," which became an instant hit in Ghana and earned him several award nominations. Since then, Kwesi Arthur has released several successful projects, including his debut EP, Live from Nkrumah Krom in 2017, which features the hit single "Grind Day (Remix)" featuring Sarkodie and Medikal. He has also collaborated with other notable African artists such as Nasty C, Mr Eazi, and Davido.

Keep reading...Show less
News
Photo by Adedamola Odetara

Places in Lagos to Have Fun this Weekend

Discover weekend events in Lagos, from beach parties, film screenings, and art exhibitions to nightlife.

After a frenzied guber election season, Lagos is back to normal. If you’re looking for fun places in Lagos, we've got you covered. Obi’s House was a blast on Monday, the weekly club party by DJ Obi held at the Hard Rock Cafe. For the art heads, Rele Gallery is extending the group show for “Bodies! Bodies! Bodies!” till March 25, featuring works from contemporary Nigerian artists.

On Saturday, Femme Fest returns this year, the women-led festival that has been a cultural staple since 2018. Sweat-It-Out, the Lagos collective hosting EDM parties, are still on a break since January. They come back in April, and we hope they return with a better experience.

Those looking for outdoor fun should be a little wary, though. The rains are creeping in and could show up when you least expect.

Silent disco party with House of Oni and Palazzo Lagos

Friday, March 24, 7pm

Silent raves, quiet clubbing, or silent disco are becoming a thing with Lagos nightlife. Hosted by Palazzo Lagos and House of Oni, join them this Friday and party with three yet-to-be-announced celebrity DJs. House of Oni has been sponsoring and curating silent events for a while. They are also involved with a non-silent pool party the next day, which brings us to the next lined-up event.

Venue: Dr Abayomi Finnih Park by Opebi Link Bridge, Oregun

Cost: From N3K

Party at The Good Beach

Saturday, March 25, 2pm

The Good Beach is one of the newest beaches in Lagos, with a vast idyllic space to relax and unwind. Come ready to dive, lounge, and party in your swimsuits and speedos.

Venue: Plot 10B, Water Corporation Road, trinity Avenue, Victoria Island

Cost: N5K

Exhibition at Rele Gallery

​Now till Saturday, March 25, 2 p.m.

Musa Ganiyy, Daniel Obasi, Ayanfe Olarinde, Yemi Osokoya, Jimi Agboola, Adaeze Omari, Dennis Onofua, Ojo Ayotunde, and Laja are the diverse artists whose works will be shown for an extended period at the Rele Gallery, ending on Friday. Titled “Bodies! Bodies! Bodies!,” the group exhibition brings distinct perspectives on exploring the body through the lens of politics, sex, spirituality, love, and history.

Venue: 32D, Thompson Avenue, Ikoyi

Cost: free

Femme Festival 2023

Saturday, March 25, 2 p.m.

It’s still Women’s Month, and no better way to celebrate than taking yourself to this year’s Femme Festival. It promises to be as exciting as past editions. Shop at the experiential vendor village from female-owned brands, party to a rotating set of female DJs, get entrepreneurial skills at the workshops, and discover a lineup of musical talents that includes Melissa, Bloody Civilian, Candy Bleakz, SGaWD, Qing Madi, and Winny.

Venue: Harbour Point, Victoria Island

Cost: From 5K for students (disclaimer, student ID needed)

Sunday at Ilashe

Sunday, March 26, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Beach parties in Lagos haven’t been the same since Sunday at Ilashe. For their Love Island-themed edition happening on Sunday, the venue will switch from Ilashe beach to Barva Beach, with hopes to attract a new, fun-seeking crowd.

Venue: Amuwo Odofin, Ilashe

Cost: From N30K

Night of Shorts

Saturday, March 25, 6 p.m.

Put together by Take One Productions, treat yourself to the screening of the anthology project Love, Life & Family. From young, undiscovered filmmakers, it will feature several short films like Onajite, Ukulo Iyi, A Moment’s Peace, Kill the Imposter, and Naked Woman. A red carpet starting by 5 p.m. gives the event an interesting flair.

Venue: Ozone Cinemas, Yaba

Cost: From N4K

Francophonie celebration at the Alliance Française de Lagos

Saturday, March 25 at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Sunday, March 26 at 2 p.m.

In partnership with the Bulgarian, Swiss, and Belgian embassies, Alliance Française Lagos will be celebrating the diversity of francophone cultures with a two-day screening of films from Belgium: Infinite Garden (2017, Romance), Last Dance (2022, drama/comedy), and L’employée de Mois (2021, thriller/crime).

Venue: 9, Osborne Road, Ikoyi

Cost: free

Fresh pastries at Maison Kayser

Have a taste of Paris in Lagos by enjoying artisanal baked goods at Maison Kayser. From exotic creations to French classics, the bakery which doubles as a bistro offers freshness and quality, even with its gourmet foods. It’s also big enough to accommodate the kids in the play area.

Venue: 9, Osborne Road, Ikoyi

Cost: free

Dining at Amazonia Lagos

​Break away from traditional restaurant experiences, and indulge in the rainforest-inspired environment of Amazonia Lagos. Have cocktails in goblin totem cups, with the sounds of water mimicking rainfall, the gentle rustle of leaves, harmonized chirping of birds, and the occasional roar to give you a dining experience close to nature.

Venue: 5, Adeola Hopewell Street, Victoria Island

Cost: free

get okayafrica in your inbox

news.

Joshua Baraka Is Ugandan Music’s Next Big Thing

With the hit song "Nana," Joshua Baraka has solidified his position as a rising star in the East African music scene.

Uganda Passes a Law Making it Illegal to Identify as LGBTQ+

Uganda’s parliament has passed a law that makes it illegal for Ugandans to identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community. People who are found to be gay can face the death penalty if caught.

Cozyshrt is Curating Freedom & Community in Accra

The Ghanaian photographer who snapped Kendrick Lamar when he visited the country last year has become a leading curator of the local cultural landscape.

What to expect from the 2023 AFCON qualifiers

The run-up to next year’s AFCON continues with qualifying fixtures, favourites to enter the tournament, and young talents to watch out for.

popular.

The Emergence of Bayanni

The rising singer talks about graduating from the Mavin Records academy and breaks down how his song “Ta Ta Ta” went viral across several parts of Africa.