West Africa

A shot of a group of people leaning close to a computer screen
News

How Paul Ninson’s Dikan Center Is Preserving Africa’s Lost History

The Dikan Center first launched as a photo library in 2022. Now, its founder, Paul Ninson, has expanded his vision to building systems that collect, restore, and preserve archival materials.

How Cabo Verdeans Are Leaning on Each Other After Devastating Flash Floods
News

How Cabo Verdeans Are Leaning on Each Other After Devastating Flash Floods

With a state of emergency in effect, communal efforts and external donations are also playing an integral role in supporting those affected by a recent, deadly tropical storm.

A shot of an open concept bar with a logo that reads “Nahous”
News

With Nahous, Lagos’ New Cultural Hub Blends Old Architecture and Contemporary Vision

Situated in the old Federal Palace building, Nahous — which features a gallery, concept store, furniture showroom, bar and gathering space — was conceptualized by Richard Vedegalo as a site for community, art and independent thinking.

In ‘Necessary Fiction,’ Eloghosa Osunde Examines What It Means to Be Queer and Free in Nigeria
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In ‘Necessary Fiction,’ Eloghosa Osunde Examines What It Means to Be Queer and Free in Nigeria

The award-winning Nigerian writer discusses the process and themes behind their second novel, which beautifully tackles themes of friendship, community, queerness, and building a haven in a harsh place.

Ugo Mozie poses on a balcony wearing a black suit and hat.
News

With 'Eleven Sixteen,' Ugo Mozie Enters a New Era in His Illustrious Fashion Career

The Nigerian American celebrity fashion stylist is the founder and designer of a new fashion brand, 'Eleven Sixteen,' which has already been worn by Diana Ross, Blue Ivy, Lena Waithe, and others.

Controversy Trails Nigerian Government Rewards for Super Falcons’ WAFCON Win
Sports

Controversy Trails Nigerian Government Rewards for Super Falcons’ WAFCON Win

The announcement of a $100,000 prize to each player has been deemed exorbitant by many, as the country deals with a severe cost-of-living crisis.

Ayofemi Kirby poses with her head propped up on her elbows behind a white background decorated with artworks.
News

In Dakar, a New Creative Space Is Blending Community and Contemporary Art

Galerie36, founded by cultural practitioner Ayofemi Kirby, has positioned itself as a creative avenue for discovery and community engagement, with a focus on redefining how traditional art spaces exist.

Being Single Nearly Cost This Nigerian Woman Her First Apartment
News

Being Single Nearly Cost This Nigerian Woman Her First Apartment

In Lagos, misogyny and tribal bias make house-hunting harder for women like Chika Nwafor.

People try to salvage items from the burned-down secondhand clothing market at Kantamanto in Accra, Ghana, on January 2, 2025. The fire at the Kantamanto market began in the early morning hours, destroying a large part of the area and displacing thousands of traders.
News

Six Months After Kantamanto Market Fire, Traders Still Feel the Burn Amid Ghana’s Economic Challenges

Traders affected by the Kantamanto fire say they are struggling to restart their businesses. Meanwhile, the economy is affecting foot traffic in the once buzzing Ghana market.

A photo of Ghanaian music legend Daddy Lumb wearing a brown t-shirt and holding a microphone.
News

​Ghanaians Celebrate the Incomparable Legacy of Daddy Lumba

Dozens of songs by the iconic musician have seen significant streaming spikes, as heartfelt memorial messages flood social media following the passing of one of Ghana’s greatest music legends.

Three young ladies pose in Liberia’s leading streetwear brand - Too Easy
Latest

Young Innovators Are Driving Monrovia's Creative Scene and Forging a New Cultural Identity

Despite a history of turmoil and a lack of traditional support, a new generation of artists, designers, and musicians in Liberia's capital is building a vibrant, authentic scene and challenging global perceptions.

Nigerian author Esther Ifesinachi Okonkwo poses for a portrait shot in a blue shirt and long black braids.
News

In Her Debut Novel, Esther Ifesinachi Okonkwo Expands the Nigerian Immigrant Experience

‘The Tiny Things Are Heavier’ is a stirring and masterfully delivered bildungsroman that follows a young Nigerian woman as she tries to make sense of her new life and what exactly she wants from it.

Siphiwe Tshabalala of South Africa celebrates after scoring the opening goal while Ricardo Osorio and goalkeeper Oscar Perez of Mexico look dejected during the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa Group A match between South Africa and Mexico at Soccer City Stadium on June 11, 2010, in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Video

15 Years of OkayAfrica, 15 Defining Moments in Pop Culture, Innovation and Activism

From Afrobeats going global to groundbreaking films, creative innovation, and youth-led protest movements, this video dives into the African moments that have defined the continent’s identity and transformation since OkayAfrica launched in 2010.

How NBA Star Precious Achiuwa Brought Nigerian Fashion to the Court
Sports

How NBA Star Precious Achiuwa Brought Nigerian Fashion to the Court

In a campaign highlighting homegrown styles and cultural roots, the basketball player rocked a range of streetwear fits from The Kowa Studio, WafflesnCream, Lost Archives, ZTTW, and Ashluxe.

Op-Ed: The Unflattering Legacy of Nigeria’s Former President Muhammadu Buhari
News

Op-Ed: The Unflattering Legacy of Nigeria’s Former President Muhammadu Buhari

Buhari, the second-longest holder of the country’s highest leadership position, is considered by many as Nigeria’s worst president, a dishonor that isn’t farfetched.

Young Nigerians Turn to Shared Living as Lagos Faces a Housing Crisis
News

Young Nigerians Turn to Shared Living as Lagos Faces a Housing Crisis

With rent prices soaring, many Lagosians are cutting costs by choosing co-living spaces and sharing the financial burden.

How Nigerian Fashion Brand Dye Lab Hacked International Pop-Ups
News

How Nigerian Fashion Brand Dye Lab Hacked International Pop-Ups

Rukky Ladoja and Ozzy Etomi create cultural experiences with their cross-continent pop-up events as a way to better connect with their customers.