Ghana and the Ivory Coast contribute a big chunk of the world’s chocolate. Yet, farmers here only earn around $1 a day. We profile entrepreneurs and chocolatiers determined to make sure the practice of cultivating cocoa prevails and it’s a sweet deal for the producers too.



British author Roald Dahl tapped into every chocoholic’s imagination when creating Willy Wonka’s bizarre chocolate factory in his 1964 children’s novel Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Although the signature chocolate river may have been pure fantasy, Africa’s cocoa industry is being molded by real-life chocolate-makers who are making it their mission to demonstrate why the continent deserves a golden ticket.



“I’ve never seen anyone miserable while tasting chocolate. Even if you are miserable, you take a bite of chocolate and it boosts your mood. It makes people joyful. That’s part of its mystery and beauty,” believes Kimberly Addison, who, along with her sister Priscilla, started Ghana’s ’57 Chocolate in 2016. 



The name of the Accra-based bean-to-bar company is inspired by the year in which the country gained independence and the spirit of developing a nation by manufacturing high-quality products.



Having spent her formative years in Switzerland’s second-most populous city, Geneva, Addison was accustomed to giving Swiss chocolate as gifts when visiting friends and family in the United States (U.S.), Senegal, and Ghana.



“I was living in the chocolate nation of the world — or so I thought.”



Fulfilling her life-long dream of moving back to Ghana prompted her friends to take her on a farewell outing to a chocolate factory two weeks before her departure. It was during that tour that the seed of Addison’s life’s purpose began to cultivate.



“They had a display of where they sourced their cocoa beans from, and lo and behold, Cote d’Ivoire and Ghana were the two largest displays. I asked myself, ‘why on earth have I been taking Swiss chocolate everywhere I travel when the main ingredient comes from the continent of Africa? I should be bringing Ghanaian chocolate to Switzerland’.”



The only problem – Ghanaian chocolate didn’t really exist.



Although Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire are responsible for growing around 70% of the world’s cocoa beans, the raw material is most often exported to chocolate-producing countries in Europe and the U.S.



The lack of a locally-produced chocolate bar on the supermarket shelves of Côte d’Ivoire is what influenced Axel Emmanuel Gbaou to create his own. Not exactly the typical path for a banker with a master’s degree in taxation.



“There was no chocolate-maker in my country, even though we produce more than 2 million [metric] tonnes of cocoa per year. So, I decided to leave my job at the bank and rise to the challenge.”



Sourcing beans from Côte d’Ivoire’s seven cocoa farming regions, Gbaou has created mineral-rich, earthy blends that have won international awards, dispelling the myth that African-produced chocolate is not as good as that from global corporations like Nestlé and Mars.



“If you get good quality raw materials, half your job is already done,” says Kyle Hickman, head chocolatier at AFRIKOA in Cape Town, South Africa. The hand-crafted brand uses heirloom beans from Tanzania that are purchased from farmers through direct trade.



“Chocolate has to be refined to a point that it’s really smooth, down to 20 microns or less, so that our tongue cannot pick up any texture. It then goes through a process called conching where we get rid of a lot of the volatile notes, because chocolate can be very acidic if it’s not processed properly.”



The chocolate is then tempered to allow the fat crystals to set, and other elements like cocoa butter; sugar; milk powder; and flavorings are added in. South African rooibos tea and Rwandan coffee can be found amidst AFRIKOA’s wares, while ’57’s collection features flavors like hibiscus and moringa.



“It’s so easy to just break a bar, pop a piece in your mouth and enjoy it because chocolate is a food that brings people together and makes you smile, but I never in a thousand years knew how hard it is to make,” admits Addison who learned the process by spending a month with a chocolate-making couple in England before returning to Accra to teach others.



“Isn’t it ironic that I had to go outside of the continent to get training in chocolate-making, only to bring it back? Ghana is the second-largest producer of cocoa, yet we don’t really have any formal schools or technical training centers on how to work with this major resource of ours.&#8221;



A third of the globe’s cocoa farmers reside in parts of West Africa, though cocoa is not something that ever found a place in the local diet. The majority of cocoa growers have never even seen a piece of chocolate, let alone taken a bite.



“Cocoa was introduced during the colonial period and was cultivated from the beginning to be exported,” explains Michael E. Odijie, a research associate at University College London. “It was not introduced as a food crop that later became a cash crop; it was introduced as a cash crop right away. People cultivating cocoa in the late 19th century had no idea what the use for this crop was, but they understood that after harvest, there was always somebody willing to buy it.”



Despite being integral to the chocolate production process, farmers rarely receive their due. A shortfall in the most recent harvest, thanks to various factors such as climate change, diseased trees, and lack of investment, have resulted in cocoa prices soaring from $2.60 per kilogram at the beginning of 2023 to around $9.80 in July 2024. Yet, farmers are still only earning around $1 a day.



“There is a power imbalance between cocoa farmers at one end of the value chain and multinationals at the other end,” Odijie notes. “Farmers don’t have control over price which is basically set by demand and supply. A cocoa farmer in a village in Ghana does not have the capital, the information, the research to properly negotiate with the other end of the value chain.”


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The lack of feasible income, in some cases, results in an inability to pay workers, thus leading farmers to resort to child labor.



“Child labor is defined by the International Labour Organization as work that deprives children of their childhood, their potential and their dignity, and that is harmful to their physical and mental development. This can include carrying heavy loads, using sharp tools like machetes to harvest the cocoa, or when the work interferes with the child’s schooling,” explains the Communications Director of the International Cocoa Initiative, Katie Bird.



The role of the NPO is to work with farmers, civil society organizations, and policymakers to tackle the issue of child labor and trafficking in West Africa where around 1.5 million children are reportedly affected. Raising awareness, improving access to quality education, building classrooms, providing books and uniforms, cash injections, and focusing on gender equality are some of the means the initiative has employed to combat the issue.



Bird notes: “Advancing women’s economic empowerment, helping them to participate in household decision-making can be very useful. There is usually more investment into the children’s schooling when the women have more of a say in the household decision-making.”



While the men work the field, Gbaou has taken it upon himself to share skills with the wives, mothers, and daughters of the communities, so they, too, may have a hand in shaping their future. “I have trained more than 2,000 women throughout Africa,” he reveals. “In the past, they did not know what to do with the beans, but now some make chocolate spread that they can sell to the children in the village. I train them how to make things with cocoa butter like soap and lipstick. It brings them some economic freedom.”



Addison agrees: “We’ve learned that the best investment one can make is in another human being, so our goal is that whoever comes through our door at ’57 must leave here better than they came.”



It is also about ensuring that the practice of cultivating cocoa prevails.



“They often say that the next generation of cocoa farmers don’t exist. And honestly, sometimes I even want to say that the next generation of farmers in general don’t exist. So now the challenge is how do we make farming interesting for young people?”



Much like its cocoa beans, the Ghanaian chocolatier hopes that Africans will remain on the continent.



“Africa shouldn’t be a place that we leave; it should be a place where people want to come to. Yes, it has its issues, its challenges, but where there are problems there are opportunities to begin to make changes. There’s no need to seek greener pastures elsewhere, we can create our own here.”



Choc-ful of potential, Africa is no longer simply clocking in to the chocolate factory — it’s building its own and inviting the world inside for a taste.

image3

Africa’s Chocolate Industry: Bean There Done That?

The time to plan for the sudden influx of aged and dated solar materials is now– Africa can’t afford to become a toxic dumping ground for the e-waste detritus left behind by solar.



Over the past few years, Africa’s corporates and consumers went solar at an unprecedented speed. Statista found that as of the end of 2022, South Africa was in the lead with more than 6 gigawatts followed by Egypt (1.7 gigawatts), Morocco with 858 megawatts, Algeria with 460 megawatts and Senegal at 263 megawatts. The total gigawatts across the continent have increased significantly over the past 10 years from only 331 megawatts in 2011 to 12.6 gigawatts in 2022 – a 16-fold capacity increase. Burkina Faso, Cameroon and Tanzania are currently expected to see the most rapid transitions to clean energy by 2030, while Namibia’s growth is the fourth-fastest in the world as per research group Zero Carbon Analytics’ 2023 report Africa’s Energy Transition: Solar and Wind Fuel Energy Security.



The region is gaining traction. Research from the above report found that deployment of solar energy is the fastest-growing resource on the continent and accounted for 57% of renewable investments between 2010 and 2021. Investments in the off-grid sector were the highest in Africa over a similar 10-year period (2010-2020) at 70% and a value of $1.7 billion. When this level of investment is wedded to the life-span of the technologies used to power solar panels and farms, there’s another question companies and governments should be asking about solar – where’s the bin? If millions of solar panels and batteries are being imported into Africa, with a lifespan of around 20 years, what is being done to ensure that countries investing heavily in solar today are putting the right recycling plans in place?



“Typically, when we speak about solar waste, it includes solar panels, PV panels, inverters, solar PV batteries, rooftop solar frames, ground-based frames, junction boxes and embedded cables,” Mervin Olivier, Eastern Cape Chair at the Institute of Waste Man- agement of Southern Africa, tells FORBES AFRICA. “There’s a lot of solar waste and typically people just talk about the PV panel. As they reach end of life, thousands of panels will need replacing and recycling will become absolutely critical.”



The International Renewable Energy Agency has predicted that by 2050, 78 million metric tons of solar panels will reach the end of their lives. The issue is the toxicity of the materials within solar installations. Solar panels have lead, cadmium, silver, and arsenic that, at certain levels, are quantified as hazardous waste, the batteries used to power solar installations are lithium-ion phos- phate batteries which are flammable, and difficult to contain. The problem is that most solar panels and their detritus are dumped in landfills because there’s no profit in their ethical dismantling and destruction – the few precious metals locked within the e-waste are difficult to extract and their value too low for the effort.



“Solar PV panels contain aluminium and glass which can be re- cycled, but the harmful chemicals in the batteries and the panels are difficult to recycle, which is why a lot of companies in Europe are sending them to countries in Africa, like Ghana, where they strip elements like copper out of the equipment and sell it,” Minnette Le Roux, Head of the Environment Department, Principal Environ- mental Specialist at law and consultancy advisory firm NSDV tells FORBES AFRICA. 



“Then counties in Africa are left sitting with these massive amounts of hazardous waste. Some countries in Africa are part of the Basel Convention preventing the transport of waste but some are not part of the convention and accept the hazardous waste. There are no plants in Africa that actually recycle what’s left of the batteries – this is one of the biggest concerns – and no landfill sites designed to handle this type of waste.”



It’s a sentiment echoed by Ashley du Plooy, CEO at ERA NPC (E-waste Recycling Authority), who adds that countries like Nigeria and Ghana have become major dumping grounds for electronic waste with strips of urban land covered in e-waste that’s being smashed and burned for the extraction of metals. “Quantifying the problem is very difficult,” he says. “Especially since solar waste is new and growing at a pace four times higher than solid municipal waste.”



Solar waste across all its iterations is a growing risk to human and environmental health across Africa. As solar installations reach end of life, particularly over the next few years, there’s a need for innovative startups to step up and help reframe the con- versation for the continent.



One such startup is EWaste Africa and Managing Director Pravashen Naidoo tells FORBES AFRICA: “In the past 12 months, we recycled close to 16,000 solar panels. I think we’re the first in Africa doing this – we haven’t been able to find anyone else doing it and getting the financial value from the process.” EWaste Africa is ISO 14001 compliant with a focus on environmental compli- ance, and one of its facilities is currently commissioning a patented technology for the extraction of rare earth metals and can be used to transform significant quantities of electronic waste.



“Government landfill sites are not designed with the right levels and layers to handle these hazardous materials, and with nearly 17 million installed panels as of the end of 2023, we need to make a plan that works,” says Naidoo. As Olivier concludes: “It’s essential that African countries develop a solar panel end-of-life plan similar to one recently published by Australia. 



More of a focus on enforcement to ensure compliance, and increased consumer pressure holding manufac- turers responsible – and this includes importers and distributors. They need to provide safe transportation of old materials and drive the implementation of a lifecycle methodology with cradle- to-the-grave opportunities.” There is, he says, time to prepare, innovate and implement a responsible plan before the waste tsunami hits. But will people listen?

A view of discarded solar panel components below a power

After Solar, Comes Lead: Why Africa Can’t Afford To Become A Toxic Dumping Ground For E-Waste

Relative energy deficiency in sport or red-s is when an athlete’s calorie intake does not match what they burn during exercise, which over a period of time can lead to serious health issues. It’s a dangerous game, and the implications can be extremely serious and long-term.



Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) is a term gaining traction in a number of codes around the world but with studies limited in Africa, how widespread the problem may be on the continent is unknown.



There are moves afoot to change that, but for now, while the RED-S issue is alive in Europe and the United States, we know little about the state of play in Africa.



RED-S is when an athlete’s calorie intake does not match what they burn during exercise, which over a period of time can lead to serious health issues, including eating disorders. It is a dangerous game, and the implica- tions can be extremely serious and long-term.



The International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) is so concerned about the issue – with both male and female climbers – that they have stepped up their monitor- ing of athletes’ health.



It seems obvious that being lighter has a benefit in climbing, leading to instances where athletes purposefully drop their body weights to dangerous levels.



Kai Lightner restricted his eating as a teenager and was a youth climbing world champion but by age 14 his liver was close to failure and he had fractured his spine in two places due to insufficient muscular protection.



Climbers will provide details of their height, weight, heart rate and blood pressure, with national federations to either issue a health certificate based on those parameters, or require they go for more testing.



The IFSC will conduct random testing throughout the climbing season. An external commission will review data from suspected cases and compare it with the national federation health certificates.



This is one federation tackling the issue, but there are others who have yet to and in Africa there is little informa- tion on how prevalent, or not, the issue may be. And it does not only affect just professional athletes, but potentially, those at amateur and school level too.



“There is quite a bit of research internationally, but then, once you get to Africa, or any other developing part of the world, there is little information,” Dr Candice MacMillan, who has a PhD in Sports Physiotherapy and is founder of the Female Athletes Research Centre (FEARCE) at the faculty of health sciences at the University of Pretoria, tells FORBES AFRICA.



“In South Africa, there has not been any study on RED-S among male or female athletes, so from a scientific perspective, there is very little literature. 



“We are busy with our own, at the University of Pretoria, we have a female-focused research interest group called FEARCE and it is one of the projects that we have identified, but looking at both male and female athletes.



“We don’t know anything about the South African landscape at the moment, whether it is similar to the rest of the world or there are local differences. The study we have formulated is looking exactly at that.”



MacMillan does not believe any sporting codes in South Africa actively monitor athletes to see if they have RED-S, and says international standards in how to monitor may not apply in the local context.



“I am not aware of any sports in South Africa where it is standard protocol to include a RED-S questionnaire. But just because a RED-S ques- tionnaire has been validated in the United States, for example, does not mean it is relevant within a South African context,” MacMillan adds.



“We are currently studying the knowledge of RED-S among the support staff of the athletes and the athletes themselves. For example, from a female perspective, there are definite cultural barriers with regards to talking about menstrual regularity, which is one of the side-effects of RED-S.



“Or among the males, it is sex-drive. It is not necessarily within the culture of many athletes to speak openly about that. In that instance, even if they had RED-S, we would not know if they don’t answer the questions honestly.”



MacMillan points out too that RED-S is a po- tential problem among school-going children and is not reserved for elite performers. It is some- thing parents can be actively monitoring.



“There are instances where young girls, for example, are entering puberty and at school, there may be comments about, ‘this person has gained weight’, and that is one area where it can be an issue as the reaction to that is to severely limit calorie intake when actually it is just a typi- cal female phase.



“But when you are trying to make a one per cent improvement to your performance, all these things are issues.”



Many athletes who do drop their body weights to dangerous levels in the belief it will help their sporting performance, may be creating other problems for themselves beyond RED-S.



“With regards the sport climbers, for example, some athletes may believe losing those few kilograms will give them an advantage, but then their power-to-weight ratio goes down too by restricting calorie intake. They need to look at the whole picture,” MacMillan says

Runners in starting blocks

What RED-S Means For Athletes In Africa

Nomaza Nongqunga Coupez’s art residency program facilitates practice focused visits to the South ff France for female South African artists, resulting in their transformative empowerment. 



God knew the African woman was going to have a very, very hard life,” writes Sindiwe Magona in Beauty’s Gift, her paean to the fi erce sororal resilience of female survivors. “He gave her that tough, timeless skin so that her woes would not be written all over her face, so that her face would not be a map to her torn and tattered heart.” 



This pain, and its healing, is instead charted in other ways; in South Africa, it is embedded in and articulated through the artistic expression of women who transform generational trauma into palliative innovation and creativity. To trace the journey of the artist Nthabiseng Boledi Kekana is to understand the ways in which South African women support and uplift one another; how female agency is liberated through opportunity and empowerment. 



Kekana is a benefi ciary of Undiscovered Canvas, an art agency “showcasing the best emerging talent from Africa and the diaspora”. 



The agency is the brainchild of Nomaza Nongqunga Coupez, who identifi es and evolves nascent ability through the Makwande Art Residency program, which facilitates practice-focused visits to the South of France for female, fl edgling South African artists. 



“As I was successfully growing the careers I represented, I realized there were very few female artists I was able to have on my roster,” Nongqunqa Coupez says. “And it concerned me, because I realized I did not hear their voices; I was not able to tell what is happening within their communities. Emerging artists are very vulnerable; they don’t have any form of support. We’re losing a lot of critical voices from the African continent, especially from women.” 



The Makwande residencies provide precious studio space and time to these artists, and fresh artistic perspectives via educational tours to France’s revered museums and galleries. 



“It is fascinating to see a young artist asking themselves so many questions. As they see the path of the masters, it validates what they are doing; that they will have something at the end that will be tangible. Once they have produced a body of work during the residency, I take it to Undiscovered Canvas, and promote those artworks through partnerships with galleries, institutions and foundations.” 



Success stories such as Kekana’s are poignant and important not only for the evidence of joy engendered through fulfi lled talent; they are roadmaps leading back to a struggle for dignity and visibility that has deep roots in South Africa’s past and the painful challenges still haunting its present. Nongqunga Coupez was born in the village of Ngqeleni in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province, one of the sectors of the country hit hardest by the HIV/AIDS epidemic, and where transmission between mother and baby took a heavy toll on communities with little or no access to healthcare provision. 



Last year, Undiscovered Canvas partnered with One to One Africa for Dualities, an exhibition at the Bernard Jacobson Gallery in London that celebrated the NGO’s Mentor Mothers project: a vital service which supports women and families in Nyandeni, one of the region’s most isolated districts, by “delivering systemic psychosocial change through in-home healthcare on foot, along the gravel paths, many miles from the nearest roads”. 



The exhibition showcased Kekana’s work alongside that of fellow female South African artists Lesego Seoketsa, Lulama Wolf Mlambo and Nene Mahlangu. 



“This project is about empowerment of the individual fi rst,” says Gqibelo Dandala, One to One Africa’s Executive Director. 



“These 40 Mentor Mothers, who are ordinary rural women we recruited locally, trained, and equipped, have acquired a status they wouldn’t otherwise have. We work in communities where there are no public facilities, no hospitals, no clinics. And yet we’ve managed to virtually eliminate mother to child HIV transmission simply because of this model: you empower one woman; she goes into households, and she empowers other women in those households.” 



For Kekana, who grew up in the impoverished Alexandra township in Gauteng, South Africa, the journey of transformational empowerment, for herself and her family, has been transcendent. The accelerating interest in her work has led to a placement at the David Krut Workshop in Johannesburg, noted for its ongoing collaborations with William Kentridge, while her residency in Nice has opened up radical new commercial and creative possibilities. 



“It was life-changing,” says Kekana. “It was my fi rst time having a studio; at home, I worked in my bedroom, and my workbooks, my bed, and my mom’s furniture were all covered in paint. So having the space and freedom to express myself was incredible. I saw clearly the type of work I created, and the place that it came from. Coming back, I wanted to prove there was a growth; I wanted to have my own space, to grow more freely. Now I have a big, beautiful place where I can create. So it really instilled those values.” 



During her residency, Kekana produced more than 25 pieces of work, in a whirlwind of inspiration and productivity. One of the most striking resultant paintings is My Ancestors Healing, a tender, maternal evocation of cyclical nurturing: hands grasp to be held, bodies are comforted, the living and the dead reach out across time to be heard and healed. 



“I come from a family where we are spiritually connected with the divine, with our ancestors. There is so much that my ancestors have endured in order for me to be here; we inherit, in some way, the trauma of those who came before us. So that piece was also about opening conversations: delving into the scar, in order for that wound to actually heal. Once somebody questions these causes and effects, the curse is broken.”

Nomaza Nongqunga Coupez; Photo by Robert Chadwick

Pain, Paint And Possibilities: A South African’s Work Of Art

Expert insights into how we are surrounded by noise 24/7/365 and it&#8217;s affecting our ability to think clearly and manage stress levels, often leading to expensive mistakes, at work and in life. 



Globally, employee stress levels are high. The Gallup State of the Global Workplace: 2023 Report connects this to high inflation, economic complexity, and ongoing uncertainty. Chad, Uganda, Tanzania, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Senegal, Nigeria, Guinea and Togo are cited as having the most stressed employees in Africa – although not as high as workers in East Asia with 61% citing extremely high daily levels of stress making them, says Gallup, “the most stressed-out workers in the world”.



African countries also feature high on the list of most distressed nations in the world, according to the Mental State of the World Report 2023; South Africa, Egypt and Angola are all experiencing high levels of distress. South Africa is on par with the United Kingdom in terms of how distressed people are, at 35%.



“Stress levels vary significantly across the African continent based on factors such as socio- economic conditions political instability and infrastructure chal- lenges,” Simone Berger, Behavioural Specialist and Founder at Univa- tion, tells FORBES AFRICA. “It’s difficult to generalize stress levels across an entire continent though – I don’t believe Africa’s levels are notably higher than other continents at this time. The world is changing rapidly and there is global uncertainty and overwhelm.”



There is, as Mel Harvard, Director at Harvard Ink, points out, “Pandemic after-effects, global information overload and crisis fatigue to deal wi h as well. People just don’t know how to deal with stress either.”



Or they do know how to deal with stress better than in the past – the Gallup Negative Experience Index has remained steady at its record 33 high reached in 2021 – but they are struggling to keep up with the rate of change and constant noise that accompany the stress.



Leanne Glanville, Mindfulness Facilitator and coach at the Sandton Yoga Lounge johannesburg, explains to FORBES AFRICA: “Between everything that goes on in our lives, minds and at work, everything is fast-paced and hectic. We made bad decisions in the moment because we’re not thinking, we’re not aware.&#8221;



Which is why people click on that SMS from the ‘Postal Service’ asking for an address update and a payment to ensure that a parcel – one that they don’t remember ordering – arrives safely. Or they click on that link in an email from a leading bank because it’s threatening to close their account. Or they agree to send millions of dollars to an un- known account because they’re so busy worrying about letting people down, they’re not hitting the pause button and asking the right questions.



Enter mindfulness. Currently an industry predicted to be reportedly worth more than $300 million by 2031, mindfulness has become profit- able and problematic. It works beautifully – the science is proven and the value exceptional – but as a recent Vox article so eloquently pointed out: “Mindfulness without worker power is capitalism at its worst.” Look inside at how to manage stress rather than outward at the causes of that stress.



In commercial language: corporates need to buy into the mindfulness credo if they want to reduce the risks that poor mindfulness and awareness introduce to their businesses and their data. 



“At the heart of cyber resilience lies the potential of human capital,” says Gilchrist Mushwana, Director and Head of Cybersecurity Service Line, BDO South Africa.



All it takes is just one click to crack open a cor- porate reputation or cost it a fortune in lost cash or fines. When people are under pressure to deliver, miss bathroom breaks and multi-task, they aren’t thinking clearly. In fact, research found that jump- ing between tasks takes a 40% hit on productivity and drops the average IQ by 10 points.



“Mindfulness is about being present in the mo- ment and can help everyone in all spheres of life,” says Glanville. “It helps people focus on the task at hand, whether it’s a meeting or an email, and reduces the risk of them making mistakes. It allows people to step out of autopilot and respond to situ- ations with more clarity and calm.”



Companies have a responsibility beyond just making money and improving market share. They need to cultivate skills that include, says Dr Chris Heunis, Founder at TBi, “social and emotional intelligence and purposeful behaviors”.



It is also not hard to achieve. As Mushwana concludes: “Given that over 90% of cyber threats exploit the human factor, focusing on human elements within technological processes becomes crucial. Training employees in mindfulness can heighten their awareness and help them manage the psychological stresses of continuous digital engagement, reducing the risk of security breaches driven by human errors.”

Some meditation before work

Hit The Pause Button: Expert-Speak On Mindfulness At Work

As Ghana’s home market picks up, so is the demand from consumers for opulent interiors, but there are challenges.



The interior design market size was valued at $130.5 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow to $211.29 billion by 2032, according to global market research company, Market Research Future. In Ghana, in particular, Statista reports that revenue in the furniture market is estimated to be $431.30 million in 2024, and projected to experience an annual growth rate of 2.04% (CAGR 2024-2029).


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“Ghana is currently at an exciting juncture. We are seeing new design concepts come to the forefront. There is a growing recognition of intrinsic elements, such as superior craftsmanship and exceptional materials,” says Pamela Michelle Aboagye, founder of Ms. Atkinson Interiors.



“I feel Ghana could be the leading luxury interior landmark. We have the resources, talent and craftsmanship to exceed all other countries. We are gradually being acknowledged and appreciated for our design ability.”



Mawuli Nii Mensah, CEO of Tema-based FBM Marble &amp; Granite that provides natural stone products, further attests to this.



“Our typical clientele encompasses a diverse range of individuals who share an appreciation for the transformative power of a beautifully designed home. Contrary to the perception that interior design is just for the affluent, everyone deserves a living space that is both opulent and reflects their style,” he says.



“While my portfolio includes clients with notable budgets, which grants me the freedom to prepare designs without constraints, my core philosophy is that beautiful homes should be accessible to everyone.”



The sector can also be considered crucial because, in many cases, it helps to increase the value of real estate. This, in turn, would have a knock-on effect on sectors like the furniture market.



A 2022 report from the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) states that the country’s real estate sector had become the fastest-growing sector with a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 30% between 2016 and 2021. The development of residential spaces has been bolstered by both the government and the private sector, having increased to 5.86 million structures in 2021.



The luxury space in Ghana is also brimming with opportunities and Yaw Appiah Kubi, designer and creator of Yak Group, has taken full advantage of this.



“I have worked on several high-end projects including, Ridge Condos, Teflon Suites, Gyamfuaa Courts in the Ashanti Region, in addition to the resplendent Makers House Chapel, Embassy Gardens, Airport Hills, Lakeside Estate, Chain Homes, and many more luxurious apartments in Accra. Luxury consumers appreciate made-to-order experiences and exclusivity. Offering tailored services, limited editions, and immersive retail experiences can create a strong brand connection and customer fidelity,” he says.



Yak Decor, one of the portfolios in his group, is a luxury home interior design company in Ghana. With a 10-year journey in the dynamic world of interior design, Kubi prides himself on being a creator of bespoke furniture and a curator of luxurious interior and exterior furnishings.


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Pamela-Michelle-Aboagye-Image-supplied-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-62627" style="width:340px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Pamela-Michelle-Aboagye-Image-supplied-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Pamela-Michelle-Aboagye-Image-supplied-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Pamela-Michelle-Aboagye-Image-supplied-768x1151.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Pamela-Michelle-Aboagye-Image-supplied-1025x1536.jpg 1025w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Pamela-Michelle-Aboagye-Image-supplied.jpg 1366w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Pamela Michelle Aboagye (Image supplied)</figcaption></figure></div>


However, as attractive as real estate – and supporting sectors – is in Ghana, the current economic climate still presents challenges for businesses in the industry.



“The last few years’ recession has impacted every known industry and the interior design industry is without exception. Many projects have been put on hold, and the profitability and sales of many interior design businesses are going south,” says Kubi.



He has seen a decline of about 30% to 50% in revenues due to decreased consumer spending on non-essential items such as home furnishings and decor.



“I was also faced with increased competition from other similar businesses as they offered lower-priced goods and services to stay afloat in the market. This, again, has caused a dent in profit margins as I was compelled to compromise on our prices as well,” says Kubi.



Aboagye, of Ms. Atkinson Interiors, is, on the contrary, seeing a slightly different trend from Kubi.



“We have seen a 20% growth rate month-on-month in Q1, showing an understanding that, despite financial difficulties, people are choosing to invest in themselves and their homes. Some clients are conscious of their spending. I think that the goal should be to cater to everyone and educate our clients on the value of what we offer,” she says.



“With luxury interiors, the beauty lies in the durability and quality of our products. Everything is made to last, which means that while clients might feel like they are spending more, especially during an economic crisis, we are actually helping them make long-term investments in their homes.”



For Kubi, the current state of the economy as well as the increasing competition has led to a shift in strategy.



“In our recent board meeting, we concluded that we needed to find real estate investors, like developers who are planning long-term projects, because getting hired for these projects can fill in the gaps in our pipeline,” he says.



Aboagye has taken a different approach to protect her business and guarantee growth in these uncertain times.



“Businesses like mine require collaborations with other professionals, like architects and developers. Clients should allow interior designers to be involved from the early stages. Additionally, collaborating with personal shoppers and fashion stylists will help bring all design elements together. The public should also be educated on what interior designers offer,” says Aboagye.



For those looking to break into and thrive in the luxury interior design sector, she believes that ‘stickability’ is key for long-term growth.



&nbsp;“I think that we will continue to trend upward throughout 2024. Government-endorsed legislations like The Year of Return [in 2019] encouraged the diaspora community to return. We are continuing to see an upsurge in foreign investment and a demand for properties to meet a certain level of standards. There is a spotlight on Africa, and with this, I hope that we can see a boost in our economy and the opportunity for our people to spend and elevate our lifestyles,” says Aboagye.



Despite the increase in residential structures in the last decade, Ghana’s housing deficit is still around 1.8 million, according to the GIPC. The Ministry of Finance estimates that about 60% of Ghana’s urban population needs assistance in securing adequate homes.



However, this does present untapped opportunities for real estate entrepreneurs like Kofi Anku, who leads Pokuase Heights, a sustainably-built middle income housing development in Accra.



“We have over 200-unit townhouses which feature solar power, insulated walls and ceilings, biodigesters and water supply. Our two bed bungalows start from $42,000 whiles the three-bedroom shell homes go for $72,000. If you contrast this with the average home in the United States, which is $435,000 or the United Kingdom, which is $375,000, you realize just how much value you get with our homes,” says Anku.

Real estate agent showing new house to customers

Luxury Checks In: Ghana’s Real Estate Sector Sees Room For Improvement

Olushola Medupin wanted to stay away from the food business but now has a growing array of upscale restaurants selling West African cuisine in some of the world’s most dazzling cities.



For Olushola Medupin, his passion for food was a gift passed down generations, like a prized heir- loom. His mother ran one of the most successful restaurants in Kwara State in Western Nigeria, and before her, his grandparents too ran their own local outlets selling inexpensive, pre-cooked food to hungry customers.



Cooking, literally, is in his blood. “My mother was in the restaurant, cooking, when she had to rush to the hospital to give birth to me,” says Medupin. “The only life I knew from a young age was to go to school and from there, the driver would bring me to the restaurant because there was nobody at home. I was forced to stay in the restaurant all day.” That was his world growing up.



Food was such an integral part of the family dynamics that all five children competed as cooks and Medupin always won. From the tender age of five, he knew his way around the kitchen, mastering local dishes such as jollof rice, eba (made from dried cassava flakes) and pounded yam.



In addition to his natural affinity for the culinary arts, Medupin also discovered he had a passion for making money. In 1991, when his father traveled to India for six months and forgot to leave his cheque book at home, Medupin’s mother struggled to make ends meet. He helped by climbing orange trees and selling the fruit in the market. By the time he was 14, he was already a serial entrepreneur, renting out his BMX bicycle for transportation in the local markets, managing a rub- bish collection business, an internet business, a supermarket and a phone repair business.



His final venture before he left Nigeria for the United Kingdom (U.K.) was a car wash business which he sold in two months for three times the capital he invested. Medupin used the proceeds to fund his education in the U.K. where he stud- ied investment banking and securities. But he didn’t land the right opportunities.



“I wasn’t getting any major jobs apart from kitchen jobs in the U.K. In 2009, I said to myself ‘I am not working in the kitchen anymore’ and started a security job in Cardiff.”



But very soon, Medupin resigned and started looking every- where else for inspiration. He didn’t want to return into the restaurant business as he had done it all his life.



“It is a very hard industry to be in. You go through a lot of emotional trauma because you must put your heart and soul in the business. If people are not happy with the food, they tell you off straight away and when they do that, it gets to you. So, I didn’t want to do it again,” says Medupin.



The National Restaurant Association in the United States (U.S.) estimates a 20% success rate for all restaurants; but about 60% of all restaurants fail in their first year of operation, and 80% within five years of opening. As much as Medupin fought the idea of starting a restaurant, that was the only viable option before him. He finally decided to give in. He moved back to London, found a place for rent in Lewisham and started his first outlet. It was tough.



“In my first year, I wanted to sell the business. The guy who wanted to buy it from me offered me £300,000 ($375,400) and at the last minute, offered me £150,000 ($188,000) to still run it. It was a struggle initially, but we decided to push through,” says Medupin.



And he made it work. Along with his wife Eniola, also his co-founder, Medupin is today a certified restaurateur with 13 fine dining restaurants, branded Enish, spread across London, the U.S. and Dubai.



West African cuisine has its loyal patrons in London, evidenced by the popularity of Nigerian restaurants such as 



Akoko and Chishuru that earned Michelin stars recently. “Not only are African restaurants abroad scarce but also finding the ingredients to cook the food you grew up with can be very challenging in London and America. That is why Enish has such a strong fanbase. They are bringing quality Nigerian food to immigrants abroad,” says Michael Amusan, a financial analyst in London and frequent visitor at Enish Covent Garden.



Concurs London food critic Tola Ogun: “This shows you that West African food, especially Nigerian, is here to stay. Michelin stars were typically awarded to white-skewing restaurants and so for Nigerian restaurants to receive the highest honor in the food business is testament to how popular our food is.”



“For someone like me who is based in the U.K., this is amaz- ing. Nigerian cuisine is growing in popularity all over the world and I am definitely a big fan of Enish,” attests Florence Otedola, popularly known as DJ Cuppy.



Serving everything from pounded yam to egusi soup (made from ground melon seeds) with a side of lobster, Enish has managed to carve out a place for itself in the U.K.’s fine dining scene, and now also in Dubai, where there are multiple outlets.



“The management already knew our brand, so it made it easy to sell our concept. It cost us $4 million to open our first branch and during that year of building the restaurant, we still had to pay a monthly rent of $50,000,” says Medupin. He has invested a lot in each of these projects, such as spending £25,000 ($31,200) a month to rent the dining space on Oxford Street and £20,000 ($25,000) a month for the Knightsbridge location in London, he adds.



In Dubai, known as The Dwntwn By Enish and located near the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower, Medupin’s outlet is a swanky 40,000sqft nightclub featuring two bars and several VIP lounge areas.



All the way from Africa to the Middle East, Medupin says he imports about 80% of all his ingredients, which presents its own unique challenges.



“You cannot buy egusi for six months at a time and there is an issue with the consistency of the products. Every time you order egusi or palm oil, it has a different taste. So, it’s up to you to use your experience to keep the taste consistent. So, it’s a big challenge,” says Medupin. But he is powering on with his vision to put Nigerian cui- sine firmly on the world map, one dish and one restaurant at a time.

image-4

The Reluctant Restaurateur Serving West African Cuisine Abroad

Africa too can proudly claim to be a source of caviar, one of the world’s greatest indulgences. Being farmed in the favorable climate and terroir of Madagascar are some very expensive fish eggs – a first for the continent.



Madagascar is known rich biodiversity, and in culinary terms, it is mostly celebrated for its unbeatable vanilla, pink peppercorns and cinnamon. Yet, the small African island is also the unexpected source of an- other exclusive luxury food item – caviar. Acipenser is the inspiring, first-ever producer of African caviar, founded by a French trio, Christophe and Delphyne Dabezies, and Alexandre Guerrier, operating out of Ambatolaona, approximately a 90-minute drive from the capital Antananarivo.



Usually served as a garnish, atop blinis and sour cream and often accompanied with champagne or sparkling wine, caviar is one of the world’s biggest indul- gences. Historically, Russia was known as the world’s top producer of caviar, up until 2007, when overfishing led to a ban on the sale and harvesting of black caviar.



Since then, China has overtaken as the largest global caviar producer with Italy and the United States not far behind them.



It wasn’t until Acipenser’s launch in 2017, that Africa could proudly claim to be a source of caviar too. The ambitious idea was first launched in 2009 by Del- phyne Dabezies and her husband Christophe, who have been in Madagascar since the end of the 1990s, and their business partner Guerrier. “This somewhat crazy idea of African caviar was born af- ter my husband Christophe saw a documentary about caviar. An obsession then emerged for Al- exandre, Christophe, and myself,” says Delphyne. “We wanted to successfully transport fertilized sturgeon eggs from Russia to Madagascar to produce the first caviar in Africa and the Indian Ocean.”



Despite skepticism from several experts, the trio embarked on their new plan, leveraging the island’s natural resources that make it an ideal environment for sturgeon. “Lake Mantasoa… has the ideal terroir and climate for the development of such an opera- tion and is perfectly suited to sturgeon farming,” explains Delphyne.


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="alignleft size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="827" height="899" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image-2.png" alt="" class="wp-image-62517" style="width:471px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image-2.png 827w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image-2-276x300.png 276w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image-2-768x835.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 827px) 100vw, 827px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Lake site at Acipenser Madagascar</figcaption></figure></div>


Delphyne and Christophe are no strangers to Madagascar, their love affair with the region having started over two decades ago. “Christophe and I were sup- posed to go on a world tour,” says Delphyne. “Our first destination was Madagascar over 25 years ago, and we never left.” Acipenser is also not their first venture in Madagascar – in 1998, they founded Akanjo, a luxury textile brand.



Despite their knowledge of the country, neither Delphyne, Christophe nor Guerrier had any prior ex- perience in caviar production, but this didn’t stop them. “Christophe and Alexandre spent a lot of time on Google to figure out how to set up a fish farm,” explains Delphyne. “They came across the name of François René, a retired INRA (French National Institute for Agricul- tural Research) researcher, who was interested in our project.” René visited the team in Madagascar and began advising them on the farm’s architecture, and studied the physicochemical parameters, ultimately confirm- ing that their idea would work. “From there, we were able to build the land site in 2009 and the lake site in 2013, where we gradually received training and sup- port from numerous experts in the field.” 



The Acipenser fish farm now comprises 19 large ponds, a hatchery, an area dedicated to pre-growout, a feed mill, and a processing workshop spread over more than eight hectares on the banks of a river fed by Lake Mantasoa upstream.



In addition to achieving what many thought was an impossible feat, Delphyne proudly reflects on Acipenser’s role in repopulating the elusive Iranian sturgeon species.



Initially, the Iranian sturgeon wasn’t recognized as a distinct species by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). How- ever, after its eventual discovery, the Iranian sturgeon rapidly declined and became extinct in Iran, effectively going from obscurity to disappearance almost immediately. Some years later, Acipenser’s sturgeon expert wanted to reward the team for their hard work, gifting them a seemingly innocuous black bag, with only the instruction to take the utmost care of it. Upon arrival in Madagascar, the farm’s collaborators quickly realized that this gift was the elusive Iranian sturgeon. 


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="422" height="208" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image-3.png" alt="" class="wp-image-62518" style="width:377px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image-3.png 422w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image-3-300x148.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 422px) 100vw, 422px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Christophe and Delphyne Dabezies, with Alexandre Guerrier</figcaption></figure></div>


“This achievement was officially acknowl- edged in December 2017 with a visit from the Iranian Minister of Agriculture to the Acipenser farm,” adds Delphyne. “Since 2018, this species has been gradually reintroduced into the farms, but will remain very rare for many years to come,” she continues. This regeneration story is key to under- standing Acipenser’s commitment to their product because the sturgeon – and their welfare – is of utmost priority. 



According to Delphyne, the sturgeon’s comfort and pre-serving the ecosystem is ultimately linked to the sustainability of the business as a whole. The lake’s water quality undergoes rigorous monitoring, ensuring the oxygen levels and temperature remain optimal, allowing the team to prepare for and respond to any challenging episodes throughout the year. “For example, in case of oxygen deficiency, it is important to reduce feeding so that the fish do not waste their energy, as they consume more energy during digestion,” she says. 



To provide more growing space, sturgeons can be moved to a new farming structure, which is also critical for their wellbeing and ensuring there is sufficient surface area for each fish to feed. The sturgeon’s growth is an essential performance in- dicator and is constantly monitored. “It is important to feed them sufficiently without overfeeding to prevent them from developing more fat than caviar,” says Delphyne.



In addition to this meticulous care, Acipenser’s vertical inte- gration ensures full control over production, resulting in top-tier caviar. The sturgeon feed is created within the farm itself, composed of natural ingredients sourced from mainly local agriculture, purchased as close to the farm as possible to minimize carbon footprint. “The food’s quality has an undeniable impact on the fish flesh and, of course, on its caviar. No antibiotics or hormones are ad- ministered in the farming process,” adds Delphyne. She also credits the surrounding environment for contributing to a stellar finished product, saying that the Malagasy climate and terroir contribute greatly to the sturgeon’s growth and maturation.



“It creates a rare and varied array of colors across all caviars and these unique characteristics are also linked to the adherence to high- quality farming practices,” she explains. Currently, Acipenser produces six different caviar varieties, including Siberian sturgeon (Baeri caviar), Russian sturgeon (Ossetra caviar) Beluga (Beluga caviar) and Iranian sturgeon (Caviar Iranien). The company distributes the caviar via three channels, namely Rova Caviar, Krasnodar Caviar and a white-label brand called ADC.



All of these factors contribute to an exemplary product, but the biggest testament to quality is the flavor. Delphyne suggests enjoying their caviar with as few additions as possible, so the flavor and characteristics of each variation shine through, but the caviars clearly lend them- selves well to other culinary applications.



In nearby Antananarivo, chef Lalaina Rav- elomanana, the Madagascan caviar ambas- sador, has a dedicated caviar section on the menu at his restaurant Marais. Further afield in Cape Town, South Africa, FYN restaurant tops a tamagoyaki (Japanese-style omelette) with Acipenser’s caviar. Ashley Moss, FYN’s culinary director, says the caviar adds a salty, briny element to the dish, but he also favors using African caviar because of a sense of locality.



When creating dishes, we like them to be representative of a place and time. Using African ingredients in Africa gives you provenance,” says Moss.



At Salsify Restaurant, head chef Ryan Cole uses the caviar in a lightly poached abalone dish, which he says brings acidity and balance to an overall rich dish. “It’s a beautiful product and up there with some of the best available in South Africa right now,” says Cole. “Naturally, our sustainable ethos means we’re constantly looking to source as close to home as possible and Madagascar is the closest place we can currently source caviar from.”



Acipenser’s story reminds us that with the right intentions, research and determination, there is nothing that Africa can’t do. The by-product of this caviar also adds more meaning to a luxury item – food donations to schools and orphanages, and job and business creation are just some of the ways Acipenser has bene- fitted economic growth for the region. This isn’t just about producing a highly sought-after food, it’s about the impact it can have on a small African country. “In addition to marketing a luxury product, we are marketing the know-how of Madagascar and the African continent, which should be appreciated internationally for its natural and hu- man wealth,” adds Delphyne.

Midsection of man putting caviar on roast duck slices in plate on table

Pricey Pride: What It Took For These Entrepreneurs To Produce African Caviar In Madagascar

First gaining prominence in 2015, skit-makers in Nigeria have continued to boom, with unprecedented collaborations between comedic content creators, both local and international. It’s a funny but lucrative business.



Nigeria, Africa’s powerhouse in the entertainment industry, is witnessing an unprecedented boom in its creative economy, particularly in the realm of skit-making. With the creative economy increasingly contributing to the Gross Domestic Product of the country, as multiple reports and statistics attest, the Nigerian skit-making industry too is not only flourishing but also redefining the landscape of entertainment.



The Covid-19 pandemic served as a catalyst for the exponential growth and attention garnered by Nigerian skit-makers. As total lockdowns necessitated innovative forms of entertainment, skit-makers seized the opportunity, devising new ways to captivate audiences through collaborations and featuring prominent actors and musicians. These newcomers are making significant breakthroughs, reshaping the narrative.



According to Dataleum, a global talent accelerator, skit-making ranks as the third-largest entertainment industry in Nigeria, with a net worth surpassing ₦50 billion ($31.2 million). The industry now doubles as a source of amusement and a substantial source of employment, as noted by the Africa Polling Institute (API); 90% of Nigerians polled viewed comedy skits as a viable means of employment, highlighting the industry’s socio-economic impact.



The stage is now set for the proliferation of these creative endeavors. While Instagram is the primary platform for most skit- makers, YouTube also sees significant engagement for skit videos. Some Nigerian skit-makers reportedly earn over $20,000 monthly. The industry has also attracted transnational collaborations, including a recent one involving Maryam Apaokagi, known popularly as Taaooma, and American actor Terry Crews. Kai Cenat, an American online streamer and YouTuber, also recently visited Nigeria. Following his visit, his colleague Darren Jason Watkins Jr., known online as IShowSpeed, also declared his intention to visit soon.



Olufemi Oguntamu, CEO of Penzaarville Africa, a media agency offering services such as talent management, shares with FORBES AFRICA: “We are highly tech-savvy in Nigeria, constantly glued to our phones.



With our large population and abundance of creativity, we are well-positioned to innovate. Despite challenges, Nigeria fosters an environment conducive to creativity. We have the knack for turning situations around, finding humor in our everyday lives, which resonates with viewers and fosters relatability.”



The evolution of skit-making has not gone unnoticed, with dedicated awards recognizing the contributions of these digital creators. Yet, amidst the glitz and glamor, Oguntamu issues a word of caution. “I just really wish and hope that content creators invest. You might be enjoying attention this moment, but the industry is very seasonal. You just have to make the best of the opportunity.”



We profile some of Nigeria’s prominent skit-makers and their journeys so far:



MAKING OF THE PURE WATER SELLER



Sophia Ikemba, popularly known as Soso or Real Sophy, is an actor, influencer, content creator, model, and chef.



Her journey began in 2019 when her makeup-free photos started attracting attention. Yet, it wasn’t until 2021 that Ikemba stepped into the spotlight of content creation with her alter ego, ‘Soso, The Pure Water Seller’. She explained the shift to Nigerian newspaper Daily Trust: “My journey into comedy and skit content was started by my creative director, popularly known as ‘Chalzani’. He pitched the idea to me, including the name and style/personality of my new character. At first, I was skeptical about it, but eventually, I started.”



Central to Ikemba’s success is her dedication to forging bonds with her audience. Speaking to FORBES AFRICA, she reveals:



“I try to reply to their comments because when you do that – including interaction – it makes them feel closer to you and you strike that bond with them.” She doesn’t just respond formally; she engages fostering an environment where fans feel like friends.


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="alignleft size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="410" height="512" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Kiekie-image-by-Illuszionz-Photo-Studio.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-62060" style="width:349px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Kiekie-image-by-Illuszionz-Photo-Studio.jpg 410w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Kiekie-image-by-Illuszionz-Photo-Studio-240x300.jpg 240w" sizes="(max-width: 410px) 100vw, 410px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Adeaga-Ilori (Photo Supplied)</figcaption></figure></div>


Consistency, she asserts, is the cornerstone of her craft. “If the consistency is not there, people might stop interacting with your page,” she cautions. Despite the challenges, she perseveres, drawing inspiration from real-life situations and trends that permeate social media. “My content comes from real-life situations,” she explains. “I try to create realistic and relatable content. It’s not like I sit down to really come up with those ideas, it just comes; just everyday happenings.”



In a digital ecosystem where trends ebb and flow like tides, Ikemba navigates with experience. “I follow trends and make skits out of them because I am always online,” she divulges. “When you see these trends, you do your best to create something in your own way.”



COMEDY’S LEGAL LUMINARY



Isaac Olayiwola, better known as Layi Wasabi, is not your typical skit-maker. Armed with a law degree and a sense of humor, he is carving out a unique niche in the content creation space.



“I have always been someone who had a knack for comedy. Studying law [at Bowen University in Nigeria] gave me the adequate knowledge I needed for the character I now play as ‘The Law’ in my skits,” Olayiwola shares with FORBES AFRICA.



With a following of over two million on Instagram from 300,000 early last year, his skits, infused with legal references and sharp wit, garnered 133.2 million views in 2023, according to Dataleum. From portraying The Law to embodying the motivational speaker persona, Mr. Richard, he is known for his versatility.



“I decided on skit-making six years ago, and my longest-held dream was to become a standup comic. However, skit-making didn’t take off until it became widely accepted on the internet and became relevant in Nigeria. I realized that I understood human nature well enough to excel at it. Creating skits seemed like an easier route to take compared to working my way through standup bars to become a recognized comic. Although the idea of skit-making came to me six years ago, I didn’t become actively involved until three years ago,” he narrates to FORBES AFRICA.



Olayiwola, who recently landed roles in notable movies, shares: “I definitely envisaged it. If I didn’t get it, I was determined to make it happen. I have always believed I belonged on the big screen. My work as a skit-maker has been paving the way for me to take on roles in movies.”



The journey has not been without its challenges though. “I am just getting started. There is a lot I am still to do. My fans should expect more.” In navigating the world of content creation, he offers sage advice: “Stay natural and do what feels personal to you. The most universal ideas are very personal. When I started doing skits about lawyers, they were things I personally found funny. I did not envisage that a lot of people would enjoy it.”



Looking ahead, he is eager to collaborate with fellow creators. “I enjoy watching a lot of my colleagues, and I look forward to collaborations in the future,” he says with enthusiasm.



BREAKING BARRIERS IN CONTENT CREATION



Content creator Oluwabukunmi Adeaga-Ilori, popularly known as Kiekie, has transcended boundaries with talent and passion.



The numbers record her rise. According to Dataleum, Kiekie’s Instagram following witnessed a surge throughout 2023, soaring from 2.1 million followers in the first quarter to 3.1 million by the year’s end. Her presence garnered 93 million views from 106 skits.



“I began my journey in content creation back in 2013, initially focusing on uploading videos to my YouTube channel,” Adeaga- Ilori reminisces with FORBES AFRICA. “At the time, I delved into content centered around celebrities and style.” However, it was her breakthrough moment in 2018 with the Fashion Shock Show that catapulted her into the limelight. Collaborations with fellow skit- makers such as Edem Victor and Oluwadolarz further solidified her presence in the digital sphere.



Reflecting on her evolution, Adeaga-Ilori shares, “Despite my background in fashion content, my penchant for humor led me to embrace comedy wholeheartedly, marking the official launch of my personal content in the skit-making realm in 2021.”



Amidst setbacks, she was determined. “What has kept me going despite the challenges is my unwavering commitment to realizing my dreams. Moreover, the vastness of this industry, teeming with exceptional talent, fuels my excitement for meeting new individuals, collaborating, and embracing fresh experiences.”



Her appointment in 2022 as the brand ambassador for Bowen University, her alma mater, was a testament to her growing influence and impact. “It was truly remarkable. The entire administration, including the Vice Chancellor, extended a warm welcome. As I stepped onto campus, I was met with an overwhelming reception, reminiscent of my first days at the university.”



Offering advice to aspiring creators, Adeaga-Ilori emphasizes authenticity. “Embrace your uniqueness, for therein lies your greatest strength. Authenticity is key to standing out in a crowded digital landscape.” As she ponders the future of content creation in Nigeria, Adeaga-Ilori remains optimistic. “The evolution of skit-making and its widespread acceptance in Nigeria is truly remarkable. We are witnessing unprecedented collaborations between international brands and content creators, opening doors to diverse opportunities.”



MASTERING EVERYDAY COMEDY



Mark Angel, the creative force behind the popular Mark Angel Comedy series on YouTube, has mastered the art of bringing everyday humor to audiences worldwide.



With his knack for relatable characters and perfectly-timed jokes, Angel has carved out a niche in the skit-making world, attracting a plaque from YouTube in 2017 for running the first African comedy channel to reach one million subscribers.



“The internet is booming and I studied the market as well. I also noticed no marketer would want to market any content from an unknown producer. Also, it is cheaper and there are so many bloggers too. The internet is the future of arts and entertainment,” Angel shared in an interview with Punch.



His journey to success began with him starring in his own skits, but it was the introduction of his young niece, Emmanuella Samuel, that proved to be a turning point. Together, they became



an unstoppable comedic duo, captivating audiences with their natural chemistry and comedic timing. His dedication to clean, family-friendly comedy has resonated with audiences of all ages, propelling his channel to unprecedented heights. With over nine million YouTube subscribers, Mark Angel Comedy reportedly stands as the first African comedy channel to achieve such a milestone, cementing Angel’s status as a household name in the skit comedy scene. Last year alone, Angel’s 196 skit videos posted on Instagram amassed 196.9 million views, accompanied by 12.1 million likes and over 208,000 comments.

Happy woman, selfie or video call for social media, influencer content creation and online blog on a white background. African person with smile and excited for profile picture photography in studio

Jokes Apart: Nigeria’s Skit-Makers Are Laughing All The Way To The Bank

More than a third of $239 billion luxury travel market is driven by non-millionaires. They’re young, they want to explore the world and, increasingly, they are neither American nor European. 



A new crop of &#8220;aspiring luxury&#8221; travelers with net worths of under $1 million makes up more than a third of the segment.GETTY



Through the rest of this decade, demand for luxury tourism and hospitality will grow faster than any other segment, according to a new report released by McKinsey on Wednesday entitled “<a href="https://mckinsey.com/industries/travel-logistics-and-infrastructure/our-insights/the-state-of-tourism-and-hospitality-2024" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">The State of Tourism and Hospitality 2024</a>.” The study, based on a survey of over 5,000 travelers, shows how the profile of the global luxury traveler is changing.



The luxury traveler—defined by McKinsey as someone who spends at least $500 per night on accommodations—has been around for some time, but the demographics of this segment are shifting on various fronts.



Unsurprisingly, about two-thirds of the $239 billion luxury travel market is powered by the affluent class. What McKinsey defines as “ultrahigh net-worth” folks (worth more than $30 million) accounted for 15% of all luxury travel spending last year. “Very high net-worth” travelers worth between $5 million and $30 million represented 16% of the segment, and “high net-worth” travelers worth between $1 million and $5 million accounted for a full third (33%) of luxury market spending in 2023.



But the report also highlights “a large and expanding base of aspiring luxury travelers” whose net worths are significantly leaner—between $100,000 and $1 million. Last year, 35% of spending in the segment was powered by these “aspiring luxury” travelers, who collectively spent $84 billion on luxury travel—more than any other cohort.



“It’s crucial to understand this non-millionaire segment for two reasons,” write the report’s authors. “First, it is comparatively large. Second, its forays into select prestige elements present opportunities for brands that hope to attract its enduring loyalty—especially as some of its members graduate into higher tiers of income and wealth.”



Spending on travel peaks between the ages of 40 and 50, but younger travelers are showing an increasing willingness and ability to spend at luxury levels, per&nbsp;the McKinsey survey. “Aspiring luxury” travelers are typically under 40. Their salaries may not be astronomical. They may not own their own homes.



So how do these younger, less affluent travelers afford champagne experiences on what used to be called a beer budget? By being willing to devote out-sized shares of their wealth on experiences. More than four in five non-millionaire luxury travelers are motivated to “explore someplace new,” according to the survey, and nearly six in 10 said they were interested in taking a “cultural or historical” trip.



In general, luxury travelers are more likely than mainstream travelers to take a specialty trip. They want novelty. Seventy-two percent of luxury travelers place importance on visiting a new destination, compared with 44% of other travelers, per the report.



The geographic source market for luxury travelers is also shifting, according to McKinsey. “Although North America is still home to the most millionaires, it could be overtaken by Asia by the mid-2030s—largely as a result of growing wealth in China,” write the report’s authors.



Spurred by the growing wealthy class in Asia, the hospitality industry is responding with a boom in hotel construction. Last year, more than 40% of the global luxury-hotel pipeline was in Asia; of those, 43% were in China.



By the end of the decade, McKinsey projects that the biggest spending cohort be high net-worth travelers worth between $1 million and $5 million, a group that will be spending $154 billion by 2030. Still, the next-biggest spending group will remain aspiring travelers, who will pour a not-so-shabby $107 billion into the luxury travel market by the end of the decade.



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Business travel concept. Man walking on city street with yellow suitcase cabin bag

The New Luxury Traveler Isn’t Who You Think

From Davido to the dude on the street, the continent’s sneaker culture is appealing to everyone, in turn, spurring local design, innovation and entrepreneurship. We sprint across the continent for more examples of the footwear redefining African cool.



Fashion trends have long been influential, but perhaps none more so than the phenomenon of sneakers infiltrating everyday style.



According to the Statista Global Consumer Survey, sneakers have become an integral part of the wardrobe for 40% of consumers, highlighting a significant shift in fashion preferences. This trend is particularly pronounced in Africa, where the sneakers segment is experiencing robust strides, with revenue projected to reach $2.17 billion this year, showing a growth rate of 1.5% in 2025, and volume estimated at 39.46 million pairs by 2028.


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Low-top sneakers lead the market. Many countries in Africa experience warm to hot climates for a significant part of the year. This, combined with the rise in streetwear culture, presents significant opportunities for entrepreneurs on the continent to leverage the sneaker value chain to meet consumer preferences towards casual wear. Low-top sneakers, with their ankle-baring design, offer a more breathable and comfortable option compared to high-top counterparts. The lightweight and airy nature of low-tops makes them suitable for the region’s weather conditions, contributing to their growing demand.



As per Statista, it is expected that there will be an annual growth rate of 5.52% until 2028 on the continent, with global giants such as Nike, Adidas, Puma, Lacoste, and Asics already entrenching themselves in the market through strategic partnerships and expansions. Adidas’s Johannesburg flagship store in 2021, for instance, marked a significant milestone in the brand’s African presence, drawing attention and enthusiasm from consumers.



Similarly, Nike’s foray into West Africa, in partnership with Hudson Group, two years ago with two flagship stores in Lagos, underscores the region’s importance in the global sneaker landscape.



This is in addition to existing retail outlets across the continent in Kenya and South Africa.



Lacoste and Puma are also expanding across Nigeria in partnership with Persianas Retail, a local company offering products through physical stores, wholesale distributors, and its e-commerce platform known as TheMix. Nigerian Afrobeats star Davido also has a paid partnership with Puma since 2021, and launched a collection titled ‘We Rise by Lifting Others’ with the brand last year.



In South Africa, local entrepreneurs have also seized on this burgeoning market, capitalizing on the continent’s diverse cultures and streetwear scene. At the top of the chain, the sneaker market is particularly on the rise in South Africa, home to Bathu (a common universal slang word primarily used in townships across the country to describe a shoe), Hibacci and RareStep, with the sneakers segment, as per Statista, projected to generate a revenue of $232 million this year, driven by a growing demand for limited edition releases and collaborations.



After a challenging 18 months, Bathu, known for its mesh shoes, was launched on September 19, 2016. It was so popular that their website reportedly crashed due to high demand. Andrew Lale, the co-founder of Bathu, told FORBES AFRICA in an exclusive interview a year later that this was because people felt an affiliation with the name and loved the story behind the shoes.



“We analyzed trends; hip-hop was a genre big in South Africa and we realized that most young cats, including me, spend too much money on sneakers and we consume too many foreign brands, more than our own [brands],” Lale said.



Theo Baloyi, CEO of Bathu and a FORBES AFRICA 30 Under 30 list-maker in 2019, had also noted in 2021 that the business is booming and they had almost 30 stores at the time across the country since making the list when they only had three stores.



The update available on Bathu’s website shows “it has now grown exponentially over the years, with 32 stores nationwide and a staff complement of over 300 employees, who are predominantly youth.”



“It has been really incredible because obviously with FORBES AFRICA’s 30 Under 30 recognition, it has helped build our credentials. First, as Theo Baloyi, a young entrepreneur in Africa, it has really opened up markets for me to engage with other favorable entrepreneurs,” Baloyi told FORBES AFRICA in the interview.



Baloyi had hinted at plans “to penetrate the SADC region in the next two years and Central Africa in the next five years, and East Africa in 10 years” when he made the list.



But inspiring Wandile Sibisi’s RareStep, a South African online store for exclusive, authentic, limited-edition sneakers, and high-end streetwear, might not have occurred to him.



Taking a cue from Baloyi, Sibisi last year co- founded RareStep with Michael Zahariev and Luke Calitz, who brings extensive experience from LUXITY, one of Africa’s largest pre-owned luxury marketplaces.



Although Sibisi shares a similar story with established local sneaker-makers; he fell in love with the global sneaker culture from a young age as an entrepreneur and did not see a gap for another local sneaker brand. Instead, he looked overseas, with his interests and ambitions largely influenced by American sneaker culture.


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“RareStep is positioned to revolutionize the sneaker resale scene in South Africa and beyond. Challenges in the industry persist, particularly concerning limited allocations from global brands like Nike and Adidas to the local market. However, leveraging our global partnerships and technological prowess, we have devised innovative solutions. For instance, our upcoming cross- border e-commerce strategy will enhance our offerings, ensuring a wider range of sneakers in various sizes, including sought- after exclusives. Additionally, our reservation policy and lifetime authenticity guarantee reflect our commitment to democratizing access to limited releases while ensuring customer satisfaction,” Sibisi shares with FORBES AFRICA.



Despite challenges less than a year into operations, RareStep is resolute in strategically positioning itself to capitalize on the burgeoning market.



“While traditional footwear sales dominate, the rise of e-commerce, coupled with increasing consumer demand for exclusive sneakers, underscores a shifting paradigm. RareStep recognizes the importance of an omnichannel approach, bridging online and offline experiences to cater to diverse consumer preferences.



“In navigating this evolving landscape, we remain focused on innovation and customer-centricity. Our commitment to authenticity, demonstrated through stringent authentication processes and partnerships with third-party verification services, ensures consumer trust and confidence in every purchase,” Sibisi explains.



He emphasizes “caution to avoid counterfeit products as the demand for rare sneakers continues to surge”.



As in South Africa, every other region, from the east to the west, has produced innovative local sneaker-makers and entrepreneurs.



Ethiopian businesswoman Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu dared to challenge the norms of the footwear industry.



In 2005, she founded soleRebels, not just as a business venture but as a movement to celebrate African craftsmanship and sustainability.



Alemu’s vision was simple yet profound: to merge her Ethiopian community’s rich artisanal heritage with eco-conscious practices. Drawing inspiration from the resilient spirit of Ethiopian rebel fighters, soleRebels crafted shoes from recycled materials, notably the iconic barabasso — Ethiopian recycled tire shoes.



Four visionary high school friends from Kenya — Sam Imende, Jawad Braye, Christian Ward, and Azariah Mengistu — realized the possibility of creating an upscale African sneaker brand by harnessing Ethiopia’s burgeoning manufacturing capabilities. Under the banner of Enzi Footwear, they blend tradition with modernity, crafting sneakers that exude elegance and authenticity.



There are more such examples across the continent. Harnessing the rich culture of running, Navalayo Osembo and Weldon Kennedy co-founded Enda in 2016, marking the inception of the first Kenyan-made running shoe.



The journey of KEEXS began with the personal challenges faced by its founder, Babajide Ipaye. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Ipaye found himself wearing his dad’s shoes at the age of nine due to his large feet. Tragically, he lost both parents in a car crash at the age of 11 and was subsequently raised as an only child by his extended family.



As he matured, so did his shoe size, reaching a US size 14 (Euro 48), making it a constant struggle to find shoes that not only fit but also offered the colors and designs he desired. Thus, KEEXS was born from a fusion of ‘KICKS’ and ‘KEEK’, as Ipaye decided to craft his own footwear.



In 2015, Ipaye, who had been a tech entrepreneur since 2005, teamed up with his friend Moyosore Olowo to initiate a global online crowdfunding campaign to finance the venture.



That same year, Ipaye attended SLEM, an international innovation and training institute for the footwear and leather industries, where he learned the art of crafting sneakers from scratch.



“We realized very quickly that economies of scale is critical to drive the growth of this business therefore there is a need for a lot of capital. There are four sides to this chain; production, design, distribution and retail. The problem with a lot of businesses in Africa is that they are expected to do everything from start to finish along that entire value chain and what that does is, it stifles the growth of the business,” Ipaye told FORBES AFRICA in a 2019 interview.



The initial designs comprised a Fela Kuti collection, featuring approximately six different products, all inspired by the late Nigerian Afrobeats legend. This collection was launched on Kickstarter, and within a span of 40 days, KEEXS reportedly amassed $20,000 in preorders from various corners of the globe. Subsequently, KEEXS collaborated with South Africa’s denim brand, Afrikanswiss, to introduce a collection available in select retail outlets in both countries by the spring of 2017.



Milcos Badji, founder of Dakar-based footwear brand Nio Far, gained recognition for his sneakers crafted from traditional Malian fabric called bogolan in 2014.



While selling at New York’s Marche Rue Dix, he primarily expands his international presence through trade shows, art conventions, and pop-up events in cities like Hamburg, Berlin, Paris, and Lagos. A fortuitous encounter with Alicia Keys and Swizz Beats led to widespread celebrity endorsement, attracting a diverse clientele including Morocco’s King Mohammed VI, NBA stars Chris Bosh and Luol Deng, Kenyan actress Lupita Nyong’o, activist and actor Kendrick Sampson, and French football icon Djibril Cissé.



Cameroon is also not left out, as it presented its first locally designed sneaker brand, ICE, launched in 2021 by Ayissi William.

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The African Sneaker Market Is Stepping Up

An exclusive interview with renowned Kenya-born land- scape architect and pioneer of sustainable tourism Hitesh Mehta. His other fascinating career? Representing East Africa and Kenya in first-class cricket and playing in three ICC World Cup tournaments in the late 1970s and 1980s.



A global authority on sustainable tourism, including the planning and design of eco-lodges in Africa, Hitesh Mehta wears Africa on his sleeve. He is also credited with creating environmental- and social- friendly master plans for many national parks and protected areas on the continent.



This writer first met Mehta at a lecture, Africa–The First World, in Miami, Florida, where he spoke about the achievements of Africa and its inhabitants over the course of several millennia.



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Mehta with the Batwa tribe of Semiki forest in western Uganda (image supplied)
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Mehta was born in Nairobi of Indian parents, and attended the University of Nairobi where he obtained a degree in architecture in 1985. After receiving the Aga Khan Scholarship, he attained a master’s degree in landscape architecture from the University of California, Berkeley, in 1989. Furthermore, he also represented East Africa and Kenya in first- class cricket and played in three ICC World Cup tournaments in the late 1970s and 1980s as an all-rounder. Mehta has consulted in 67 countries across six continents and is a recipient of multiple international awards for the physical planning of protected areas, for building design, site-planning, and landscape architecture. He shares more highlights in this interview with FORBES AFRICA:



Q. You have had an amazing career as a landscape architect especially working in Africa with national parks to create a sustainable tourism environment. How do you define landscape architecture?



A: Landscape architecture involves the planning, design, management and nurturing of built and natural environments in an eco-friendly manner. Everything outside a closed environment, for example, a building, is landscape architecture: plazas, gardens, campuses, national parks, and other protected areas.



Q. What inspired you to choose this profession, which is relatively a new profession compared to the architecture of buildings?



A: Typically, training in architecture schools involves the design of buildings, interiors, and elevations. I realized that it was important for me to understand ‘outside’ areas to be a conscious designer. My education in Berkeley, a leader in the field at that time, helped me become a holistic designer where I could design the inside and outside at the same time.



Q. Has growing up in Africa had an impact on your work?



A: Tremendously! I grew up close to a forested area in Nairobi where visits from small mammals and sightings of leopards were common. Growing up in Africa, I was exposed to material poverty and that made me truly understand what it took to survive and live off the land. Five years after starting my office, I realized that architecture is not about building glitzy structures for the rich but about creating sustainable livelihoods for those who are marginalized and underprivileged. This realization has led me to work with over 30 indigenous peoples the world over.



Q: You have worked in many countries on behalf of the World Bank, International Finance Corporation (IFC), United States Agency for International Development (USAID), German Corporation for International Cooperation (GIZ), National Geographic, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), African Wildlife Foundation, to name a few. What projects have you done in Africa lately?



A: I am currently working on several projects; in Liberia and in Kenya. My firm HM Design is creating a protected area master plan for the East Nimba Nature Reserve, in northern Liberia. 



The key aspects of the projects include the protection of endangered species such as the western chimpanzee, the sustainable development of local people, and ecotourism. In addition, we are designing ‘One Health’ centers, a concept initiated by One Health Alliance and the Food and Agriculture Organization, for the stewardship of the health of humans, animals and plants.



We are also working with USAID on a master plan for the Sapo National Park in Liberia, one of the most biologically-rich rainforests in the world.



In Kenya, we are working with the Maasai communities and conservation NGOs to create a Visitor, Research, Information and Sustainability Center in the two most important ecosystems – the Amboseli National Park and Maasai Mara Game Reserve. Currently, we are also creating a Maasai Mara Sustainability Center with support from the Oliveseed Foundation to educate Maasai women by creating a library and a sustainability center in Kenya. We are also creating a community center for the Noonkotiak Maasai community in partnership with the African Conservation Center headed by Dr David Western, the former head of the Kenyan Wildlife Service.



Q. You were given an outstanding achievement award by United Nations’ bodies for the alleviation of poverty and for protecting sensitive environments. Can you please tell us about some of your work in that respect?



A: In my work around the world, especially while working in protected areas, the people who are most impacted are the local communities whose needs must be met in any such projects. The award that you mentioned was for my work in protected areas, especially in Africa, such as in the Nyungwe National Park, Africa’s largest montane forest, in Rwanda and the Virunga Massif, shared by the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda and Uganda.



Q: I understand that Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda and Bale Mountains National Park in Ethiopia have been recently named as World Heritage Sites by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). What was your contribution to these projects?



A: I am so thrilled that these parks have been recognized by UNESCO. I prepared the physical master plans for both places. In Nyungwe, this included the protection of mammal species such as chimpanzees and helping benefit local communities by creating an investment apparatus for local entrepreneurs. The Bale Mountains National Park in Ethiopia is high plateau at over 11,000ft which I refer to as the Tibet of Africa. My company HM Design prepared the ecotourism master plans which were part of the World Heritage Site package that was submitted to UNESCO. Both Nyungwe and Bale are amazing natural treasures, and I am so proud to be associated with these parks.



Q: Your book Authentic Ecolodges published by HarperCollins is a coffee-table publication; how did you manage to compile material for this project?



A: It all began with me preparing a ‘how to’ technical guidelines book on eco-lodges in 2002. This book, International Ecolodge Guidelines, was widely received by the ecotourism community, so I set about using the criteria set in the book to publish visual, exemplary examples of authentic eco-lodges around the world. The book highlights 36 properties from the 46 countries that I visited and evaluated for publication.



Q: You have designed many of the properties that I have visited by chance the world over. But what fascinates me even more is your life as an international cricketer. What were some of your crowning moments?



A: I first started playing cricket for East Africa at the age of 17, even before I played for my country, Kenya! All this was whilst still in high school. My crowning moment was when I captained the Kenyan team in 1987.



The first cricket bat (Slazenger) that Kapil Dev owned was given as a gift to him from me in 1977. He later signed a huge contract with the bat manufacturer and used a Slazenger bat during India’s successful run to win the World Cup in 1983.



In a three-day game in 1977 and before Kapil Dev had played for India, he borrowed my bat and then proceeded to hit me for three sixes&#8230; I also bowled five consecutive maidens against Sunil Gavaskar but he went on to score a double-century!

Working with the Maasai communities and conservation NGOs; image supplied

On Conservation And Cricket: The All-Rounder In African Ecotourism

Chess unveils a boundless realm of imagination and possibility — a canvas where each match paints a unique tale of conflict and conquest, where kingdoms clash in a dance of uncertainty until the final, decisive moment. FORBES AFRICA takes a look at an NGO championing the game on the continent.



In the heart of the continent beats a timeless rhythm, a symphony of intellect and strategy that has resonated throughout the ages. In one West African nation, chess, a masterpiece of human ingenuity, transcends mere gameplay to become a captivating dialogue between minds, where moves speak volumes and every piece carries the weight of strategy.



And this Nigerian group is keeping the game alive. Chess In Slums Africa, a non-profit organization based in Lagos, uses an impact model to empower their champions, through several programs.



Regarding STEM education, robotics and digital skills, Tunde Onakoya, founder of the chess group, says, “This program aims to provide children with an immersive, hands-on learning experience in slum communities. It focuses on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) education, particularly robotics, computer programming, coding, website design, graphic design, and animation.”



“Project C.A.S.T.L.E is a program that uses the game of chess to engage children from marginalized communities. It&#8217;s a game and a strategic tool that teaches critical thinking, patience, and problem-solving. The program is structured to take children from the basics to advanced levels, fostering intellectual growth and strategic planning,” Onakoya adds.



Beyond the confines of the chessboard, the initiative extends its reach to encompass the cultivation of essential life skills such as leadership, teamwork, and resilience. Its overarching objective is to establish an educational haven, using chess as a vehicle for personal growth and empowerment. Through Project C.A.S.T.L.E, the aspiration is clear: to revolutionize lives, one strategic move at a time.



“LIFELINE is a dedicated initiative to promote long term personal and professional growth for children from underprivileged backgrounds. The program offers comprehensive support by providing educational scholarships and practical vocational training,” says Onakoya.



“It helps bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world skills. By empowering participants with mentorship, civic education, and financial literacy training, LIFELINE ensures well-rounded development and enables them to pursue their aspirations confidently. The program aims to nurture future leaders and innovators who drive positive change in their communities.”



When it comes to the academic, educational, and critical thinking skills cultivated by Chess in Slums Africa, Onakoya underscores the tailored approach of their program to address the unique challenges faced by the children they serve.



“Our program aims to address challenges stemming from limited access to quality education and resources by focusing on skills that are academically enriching, practical, and relevant to their daily lives,” he says.



Additionally, Onakoya highlights the ‘mental maths’ component, which enhances arithmetic skills and fosters quick thinking and mental agility.



“Through mental maths, children can rapidly perform complex calculations, strengthening their mathematical proficiency, problem-solving skills, and critical thinking abilities.”



The incorporation of tech programs also introduce essential digital literacy skills such as computer proficiency and coding fundamentals. This, he states, prepares the children for success in an increasingly technology-driven world, opening doors to future educational and career opportunities in STEM fields.



The program equips children with academically beneficial, culturally relevant and empowering skills, enabling them to overcome obstacles, pursue aspirations, and succeed not only in chess but also in life&#8217;s challenges.



Central to Chess in Slums Africa’s methodology is community engagement, actively involving local stakeholders to ensure programs are contextually relevant and responsive. Moreover, the importance of innovation and creativity, advocating for approaches that transcend traditional classroom settings to foster independent thought.



Onakoya highlights sustainability, emphasizing the need to address both immediate needs and ensure long-term impact through sustainable partnerships and by empowering children as agents of change.



Emerging from an initial disinterest in the Chess in Slums Africa program in the Majidun community, Jamiu Ninalowo surpassed expectations, becoming a leading player who outperformed his earlier-starting peers. Under the nurturing umbrella of the Chess in Slums Africa Scholarship and child development unit, Ninalowo blossomed. Completing his secondary school education, he begins a new chapter at Nexford University as a freshman, pursuing a Business Administration degree, specializing in Product Management. He is simultaneously taking courses in cybersecurity, and his chess prowess is improving by the day.



Another player – Miriam Kayang, born in the local government area of Obanliku, is the eldest of six children and a local footballer in her community. Kayang was encountered during a project in the country’s Cross River State in November 2022, among over 50 girls to whom the game of chess was taught. She was placed under a scholarship program to complete her secondary school education in 2023, and is currently a linguistics (French) student at the University of Calabar.



Overcoming initial dismissal from the Chess in Slums Africa training sessions in 2019, Fethina Maumo, a child with cerebral palsy, was born into the bustling Makoko informal settlement. Unyielding, Maumo’s determination won him a place in the sessions. His first step in English was memorizing the chess pieces and his triumph as the junior category winner forever shifted his narrative. Now, under the full sponsorship of Chess in Slums Africa, he is enrolled in school, competes in tournaments, and has received widespread recognition.



Chess, in all honesty, is like any other game at first glance. However, the beauty of it is its ability to build a mental toughness in its players akin to no other, much like the game’s own stand against the test of time.

Close-up Businessman playing chess .

How This Board Game Is Making A Difference In Lagos

Roushanna Gray uses food and ecology as a medium to impart knowledge on the rich biodiversity of South Africa’s edible land and seascapes.



Cape Town is a city with no shortage of experiences, for every kind of person. There are some that appeal to the hedonists, such as lavish fine dining dinners or curated wine tastings. And then there are those that offer a unique insight into the Western Cape province’s biodiversity and landscape, such as the coastal foraging experiences hosted by Veld &amp; Sea in Cape Point.



Housed at the Good Hope Gardens Nursery in Cape Point – which focuses on cultivating and protecting plants, flowers and trees indigenous to the majestic Cape Floral Kingdom – Veld &amp; Sea is run by Roushanna Gray, a food artist and forager, who says it was her own curiosity about the edible land and seascapes that fueled her to start these experiences.



“My inspiration stems from a desire to share the rich biodiversity of edible plants and seaweeds of South Africa and cultivate awareness about sustainable living,” she explains. “Our experiences employ a hands-on approach, I believe that direct engagement with nature during the workshops fosters a deeper understanding of the intricate relationships within these ecosystems, encouraging participants to develop a sense of responsibility, stewardship and joy for nature.” 



A typical workshop sees guests arrive on nearby Scarborough Beach, where the morning is spent foraging for edible seaweeds and mussels. In keeping with the sustainable undercurrent, only prolific seaweed and invasive mussel species are picked, in order to keep the ecosystem’s balance in check. After that, the group returns to the Veld &amp; Sea classroom in the nursery to cook and sit down to a three-course lunch, made entirely of foraged produce.



“We not only impart practical culinary and scientific knowledge about foraging and local flora but also weave together ecological principles and ethical considerations to nurture an environmentally-conscious community committed to the preservation of these delicate ecosystems,” adds Gray.



The workshops are guided by the seasons, with each one offering a unique experience, from beach gatherings for seaweeds and shellfish in summer to forest forays for wild mushrooms and acorns in autumn.



“What makes this space extraordinary is not just the edible variety of the plants, seaweeds, wild mushrooms, edible flowers, and herbs, but the profound relationships between them and their role in sustainable living practices.”



Foraging as a concept has been around for a while, particularly in the high-end restaurant scene. Top chefs like NOMA’s Rene Redzepi in Copenhagen and Magnus Nilsson of now-closed Fäviken, in remote Sweden, both made their names sourcing hyper-local and seasonal produce and serving it in a Michelin-starred context.



Through her workshops, Gray instils a sense of responsibility and respect for the rich biodiversity of the coastal and edible landscapes. “It’s the transformative power of hands-on learning in nature. It’s not just about foraging; it’s about unraveling the intricate stories behind these wildly delicious ingredients, understanding their ecological roles, and appreciating the delicate balance they contribute to these ecosystems,” she adds.



In some ways, it’s more than just a workshop or a meal.



“It’s about fostering a connection to nature that lasts a lifetime,” says Gray. This sentiment feels especially crucial in the context of the Western Cape, which is mostly known for its food, wine and beaches.



“Nature is a perfect living classroom, with our subjects surrounding us on all sides, offering immersive experiences that transcend traditional education,” she says. By using food and ecology as a medium for teaching, Gray hopes to foster a deep connection between guests and the environment, appealing to anyone with a sense of wonder and respect for South Africa’s incredible Western Cape ecosystem.

‘Foraging And Fostering Connections With Nature’: The Food Artist In South Africa’s Western Cape

If you find yourself in Nigeria&#8217;s largest city, Lagos, this December, here’s where some of the hottest parties may be happening.



The vibrant and pulsating heartbeat of Nigeria&#8217;s nightlife scene is Lagos, the country&#8217;s largest city and a melting pot of electrifying energy. In December, the city transforms into a kaleidoscope of dazzling lights and infectious beats, offering a nightlife experience like no other. From the upscale lounges of Victoria Island to the rhythmic streets of Ikeja, Lagos boasts a diverse array of hotspots where the night comes alive with an unmistakable Nigerian flair.



Venture into the trendy district of Victoria Island, where high-end clubs beckon with sophisticated vibes and A-list DJs spinning the latest Afrobeats tunes. The glittering skyline provides a stunning backdrop as revelers dance the night away, embracing the city&#8217;s opulent side. For those seeking a more grassroots vibe, the bustling streets of Ikeja reveal a different facet of Lagos nightlife. Here, you will find open-air bars, live music joints, and spontaneous street parties, creating an authentic and immersive experience that captures the spirit of the city.



December in Lagos is a celebration of life, music, and community, making it the perfect time to explore the diverse nightlife spots that define this metropolis. Here are some of the top ones:



The New Afrika Shrine: Closer To Fela&#8217;s Legacy



In the vibrant heart of Ikeja, Lagos State, The New Afrika Shrine is a living testament to Fela Kuti&#8217;s enduring legacy and his vision for a cultural haven that transcends boundaries. As Femi Kuti, Fela&#8217;s eldest son and torchbearer, says on its website, &#8220;The New Afrika Shrine is probably the most important thing I have ever done, aside from my children.&#8221;



The roots of the Shrine trace back to Fela&#8217;s inspiration from the Mbari Artists and Writers Club, a cultural hub in Ibadan, founded in the spirit of post-colonial optimism. Fela&#8217;s cousin, Wole Soyinka, co-founded Mbari, influencing Fela&#8217;s belief that a space could be both a performance venue and a progressive salon. The original Shrine, Fela&#8217;s home until his passing in 1997, became a symbol of community empowerment, offering jobs and opportunities to the urban poor, or as Fela affectionately called them, the &#8220;sufferheads&#8221;.



Unable to revive the original Shrine, Fela&#8217;s family, led by his daughter Yeni and son Femi, crafted The New Afrika Shrine in 2000.



With no entrance fee for most events, &#8220;its doors are open 24/7&#8221;, welcoming everyone, regardless of nationality or socioeconomic status. Femi performs regularly with his band, The Positive Force, and Seun, Fela&#8217;s younger son, graces the stage with Egypt 80.



Femi emphasized the positive revolution the Shrine embodies, breaking down societal barriers. &#8220;The poor people sit with the rich people, the white people sit with the black people, and nobody feels different,&#8221; he said, echoing the sentiment of his latest album, One People One World.



The New Afrika Shrine is a thriving community hub that fuels the local economy. Femi noted, &#8220;Before it opened, the area around it was all bush. Now there are buildings everywhere. There are clubs, hotels, event centers. We have created a prosperous little city.&#8221;



The Shrine&#8217;s allure extends beyond Lagos, drawing a diverse array of global icons, from Erykah Badu and Lauryn Hill to Anthony Joshua and Naomi Campbell. Even President Emmanuel Macron of France, reliving his Lagos days as a junior diplomat, graced the Shrine in 2018.



As Femi Kuti summed it up, &#8220;The Shrine for me is all about positive revolution,&#8221; and indeed, the beat of positivity resonates within its walls, creating an atmosphere where, as the saying goes, &#8220;You never know who you might bump into at the Shrine. You do know you are going to have a wonderful time.&#8221;



Secrets Palace: Luxury Meets Entertainment



Situated in Lekki, Lagos, Secrets Palace defines itself as a &#8220;high-end nightlife establishment&#8221;. Celebrating its two-year anniversary, the venue has become synonymous with luxury.



&#8220;At Secrets Palace, our mission is to create a refined and sophisticated haven for gentlemen in Lagos, Nigeria, where they can unwind and indulge in adult entertainment while experiencing the epitome of luxury and class,&#8221; says its website.



Step through the doors, and you are welcomed into a sumptuous and exclusive ambience where opulence meets comfort. The venue&#8217;s decor is all elegance and style. Patrons are assured privacy and discretion and &nbsp;it’s a popular destination in Nigeria’s nightlife circuit.



Quilox: Luxury, Style And Celeb-Spotting



For a decade now, Quilox Nightclub with Bar, sited in Victoria Island, Lagos, prides itself as the epitome of Nigeria&#8217;s elite nightlife.



&#8220;We have hosted the hottest parties in Lagos!&#8221; it declares on its website, inviting patrons to immerse themselves in a world where style and luxury converge. The venue is adorned in a striking red, gold, and black theme. A space for dancing, dining, mingling, and networking, it’s a regular haunt for A-listers and celebrities. Quilox also hosts private events with the capacity to host parties ranging from 40 to 400 guests.



Cubana: High-Profile Leisure



With locations in Ikeja and Victoria Island, Cubana has become synonymous with high-profile leisure.



At the heart of the island location is Club Pablo, a 1,000-person capacity luxury night club.



The Grind, a rooftop restaurant and lounge enveloped in steel and glass, offers an indoor-outdoor dining experience. Here, Cubana redefines the traditional open-air bush bar with its contemporary twist, known as Cubana Hut ‘n’ Grill.



Cubana spans major Nigerian cities, with branches in Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu, and Owerri.



&#8220;Anytime you are in Nigeria, check us out, and I bet you, you will not regret it. Enjoyment is our business,&#8221; asserts the club, inviting guests to experience Cubana Lounge, located in the heart of Abuja.



Afefeyeye Restaurant And Bar: A Culinary Haven



In Ikeja, Lagos, Afefeyeye Restaurant and Bar is fast becoming a testament to the intersection of gastronomy, culture, and vibrant entertainment. Affiliated with Kunle Afolayan Productions&#8217; KAPHub, this culinary gem has been igniting taste buds for over two years.



Nollywood actor and producer Kunle Afolayan, the visionary behind Afefeyeye, shared his passion during the opening, stating, &#8220;This is a brand born out of pure love for food, culture, and a good time.&#8221;



The restaurant&#8217;s Yoruba name translates to &#8220;lavish leisure&#8221;.



The menu reflects both African and intercontinental cuisine. Afolayan invites guests to experience a culinary journey infused with passion and creativity. Afefeyeye is a destination where culinary artistry and cultural richness converge.

Young men and women dancing against illuminated red spotlights at nightclub

Dancing Into 2024: Lagos’ Top 5 Nightlife Havens

Addressing sexual exploitation and abuse in the digital ecosystem.



The hype around the development of the metaverse, an immersive digital space that will take real-world experiences online and blur the line between physical and virtual, is palpable. Accounting organization KPMG predicts that by 2030, we might be spending more time in the metaverse than in the real world. In a survey conducted by Pew Research and Elon University in North Carolina, more than half of the technology experts responded that by 2040, they expect the metaverse to be a fully-immersive, well-functioning aspect of daily life for half a billion people (or more) around the world. 



But for many, the excitement around the world’s digital future is something that should be approached with caution. Women, in particular, have been known to experience gender-based violence in the form of online harassment. One study from the Economist Intelligence Unit uncovered that 85% of women have experienced or witnessed online violence, with 38% of women reporting personal experiences with online violence and 65% reporting knowing of other women who were targeted online.



If women are already su-fering a disproportionate amount of abuse online, will they be safe in the metaverse?



In 2022, the Alliance for Universal Digital Rights (AUDRi) was formed by two international gender equality and advocacy organizations, Equality Now and Women Leading in AI. For over 30 years, Equality Now has been campaigning for legal and systematic change to address violence and discrimination against women and girls around the world but what they soon came to realize is that the sexual exploitation and abuse they were working against stopping in the physical space could be manifested online.



“People are using the internet to replicate and amplify the same sort of violence; [what] we’re seeing in the physical space is being played out in the digital space. It’s growing at an alarming rate just because of the nature of the internet,” says Tsitsi Matekaire, Equality Now’s Global Lead of End Sexual Exploitation.



Born in Zimbabwe, Matekaire has worked with women’s rights organizations throughout Africa, providing legal aid services to women affected by domestic violence.



“Looking at the legal frameworks, we didn’t realize that if we focus our research so narrowly on sexual exploitation and abuse, we sort of miss the bigger picture because this is happening in the digital ecosystem.” Working with a network of women in technology, AUDRi is calling for an international standard that will address women and girl’s rights in the digital space grounded in international human rights law.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-than-a-game">More than a game</h2>



The studies around avatar gender-swapping in the online gaming space are eye-opening. To avoid toxic sexual behavior, female players choose a male avatar to avoid being harassed.



Wai Yen Tang, a researcher from the University of Amsterdam, found that in gaming culture, women are often harassed because they are perceived as an outside and intrusive minority.



“Women don’t participate to the extent that they should because they have serious concerns around safety. The result is self-censorship, where you don’t want to bring out your true identity,” says Maitekaire. “We are a diverse community but as a woman, you’re operating as a white male because that attracts less harassment. There are black women, cisgender women, trans women… all of that can get lost if people have that fear.” In addition, it’s all too easy for the abuse can easily jump from digital to physical – in April 2023, a man in California was arrested for sexually abusing a 14-year old girl he met playing a popular kids gaming app – which is exactly why organizations like AUDRi are so needed.



<div class="wp-block-media-text" style="grid-template-columns:42% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Tsitsi-Matekaire-1024x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60791 size-full" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Tsitsi-Matekaire-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Tsitsi-Matekaire-300x300.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Tsitsi-Matekaire-150x150.jpg 150w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Tsitsi-Matekaire-768x768.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Tsitsi-Matekaire-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Tsitsi-Matekaire-2048x2048.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
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“WE ARE A DIVERSE COMMUNITY BUT AS A WOMAN, YOU’RE OPERATING AS A WHITE MALE BECAUSE THAT ATTRACTS LESS HARASSMENT.”
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“We really wanted to look at that digital dimension and assess the impact it would have on human rights and human vulnerability so we are advocating for policies at a global level,” says Matekaire. “Even on a national level, we have to show governments what they need to be thinking about to ensure rights are protected within that space.” 



For Matekaire, the urgency is now because as the technology is being developed, policy frameworks need to be created to keep up. “There’s a dilemma because things are moving quickly and policies can also be future-proofed to anticipate the risks,” she adds. “We need to ensure that in the design stage we are building in those principles of equality, of safety, of human rights, for people with disabilities and those in the LGBTQ community. We have to anticipate these different aspects before or as the technology is designed.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">An economic opportunity</h2>



Be it education or healthcare, throughout the continent, there has been interest on a governmental level in how the metaverse can be best utilized. Egypt, for example, launched MetaTut at the end of 2022.



MetaTut is a virtual city created to celebrate Egyptian culture and take the country’s heritage into the digital age. It’s not only a virtual tourist destination but a place where people can meet others and even conduct business.



“African governments are looking at the metaverse as an opportunity to advance their economies but have they anticipated the risks?” asks Matekaire.



Considering the potential impact of the metaverse, AUDRi is urging governments, regulators and big tech companies to consider the rights of those who remain marginalized online. They’re calling for guidelines to be established that measure the impact on the human rights of vulnerable groups as well as best practices when it comes to design. 



“And we need governments involved because ultimately governments are the ones that are responsible for people’s rights,” she adds. “As AUDRi, what we’re really talking about is a global approach – global policies and laws that countries can derive their national laws and policies from.

Avatars

Will Women Be Safe In The Metaverse?

Nigerian Afrobeats artist Mohbad passed away at the age of 27 on September 12. Posthumously, he surpassed global icons on the charts and experienced a surge in streaming.



Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, passed away at the age of 27 on September 12, leaving a mark as an Afrobeats artist from Nigeria. Posthumously, Mohbad reportedly surpassed global icons such as Nicki Minaj and Eminem, securing the 46th spot among the world&#8217;s best-selling digital artists.



In the week following his demise, Mohbad&#8217;s track Peace soared to the second spot on Billboard&#8217;s Hot Trending Songs chart. Simultaneously, Blessed peaked at number four, and Light marked its entry at number 20 on the Nigerian Official Top 50 Albums chart. Notably, Times Square&#8217;s billboards in New York also paid tribute to the late Nigerian star.



Mohbad&#8217;s posthumous resurgence extended to streaming platforms – TurnTable Charts reported a 702% surge in his music streams since his passing.



Tributes from artists globally, including Meek Mill, Lil Durk, and Kodak Black, underscored Mohbad&#8217;s international influence. In Nigeria, over 50 songs were dedicated to his memory, flooding streaming platforms with heartfelt original recordings and covers. The candlelight procession held across several states, notably at Muri Okunola Park in Lagos, Nigeria&#8217;s largest city, drew notable artists like Davido, Zlatan, Chike, Skales, and Falz.



Stakeholders highlight the complexity of audience reactions to an artist&#8217;s work, especially in the wake of tragic events. Some have attributed the influx of streams to newfound awareness rather than a sudden change in appreciation, emphasizing the diverse ways people connect with music and artists.



Music critic Abiola Fasanmi tells FORBES AFRICA, &#8220;Mohbad was not just an artist; he was a visionary. His posthumous success is bittersweet, but it reflects the undeniable talent he brought to the world.



&#8220;It&#8217;s unprecedented for an artist to climb global charts after their passing. Mohbad&#8217;s music resonated profoundly, capturing the essence of Afrobeats and transcending cultural boundaries.&#8221;



Commenting on the Billboard rankings, Fasanmi observes: &#8220;To see Mohbad surpass industry giants posthumously is a testament to the authenticity of his art. He had a unique ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level.



“The surge in streaming numbers reflects the collective grief and celebration of Mohbad&#8217;s artistry.”

mohbad

Posthumous Feat: From Afrobeats Star To Global Music Charts Domination

The ultimate year-end gift ideas for luxury lovers and gadget geeks.



<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="574" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/RayBan-x-Meta-1024x574.png" alt="" class="wp-image-60681 size-full" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/RayBan-x-Meta-1024x574.png 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/RayBan-x-Meta-300x168.png 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/RayBan-x-Meta-768x431.png 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/RayBan-x-Meta-1536x861.png 1536w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/RayBan-x-Meta-2048x1148.png 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ray-ban-x-meta-wayfarer">Ray-Ban x Meta Wayfarer</h4>



Ray-Ban’s next-generation retro smart glasses in partnership with Meta lets you livestream to Instagram or Facebook. While privacy should be paramount, it offers other conveniences you can enjoy while protecting your eyes. These include taking pictures and videos with a unique perspective from its 12MP ultra-wide camera in full HD for up to 60 seconds; the ability to take calls or listen to audio; and voice recording through built-in microphones. The glasses are integrated with Meta AI to act as a personal assistant or get information through voice commands using the trigger “hey Meta”, which also sends photos. Its unique battery case offers up to 36 hours of usage, and it is now IPX4-rated for water resistance. Price: $329
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<div class="wp-block-media-text has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile"><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-montblanc-extreme-2-0-wallet">Montblanc Extreme 2.0 Wallet</h4>



For understated elegance and luxury, check out Montblanc’s new Extreme 2.0 Wallet in black leather with a carbon-fiber print on the outside and plain black on the inside. It features slots for eight cards, two compartments for cash and four additional pockets. It uses Montblanc’s Shield technology with RFID blocking in the lining. This ensures your cards are blocked from hackers who try to wireless skim data using radio frequencies. A must for travelers. Price: $420
</div><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="915" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Montblanc-Wallet-1024x915.png" alt="" class="wp-image-60677 size-full" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Montblanc-Wallet-1024x915.png 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Montblanc-Wallet-300x268.png 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Montblanc-Wallet-768x686.png 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Montblanc-Wallet-1536x1373.png 1536w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Montblanc-Wallet-2048x1830.png 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></div>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="790" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/HP-Spectre-Fold-1024x790.png" alt="" class="wp-image-60676" style="width:550px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/HP-Spectre-Fold-1024x790.png 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/HP-Spectre-Fold-300x231.png 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/HP-Spectre-Fold-768x592.png 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/HP-Spectre-Fold-1536x1184.png 1536w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/HP-Spectre-Fold-2048x1579.png 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></div>


<h4 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-hp-spectre-fold">HP Spectre Fold</h4>



Folding smartphones may have been all the rage these last few years, but there’s a new type that’s trending – the foldable PC. HP came out with the Spectre Fold in September 2023, and it’s quite the marvel: it’s a 3-in-1 that transforms between laptop, desktop, and tablet. Dubbed the world’s thinnest foldable at 17-inches, it can be accessed in tablet mode with a stylus; as a 12.3-inch laptop with wireless magnetic keyboard; and as a desktop through its built-in kickstand. The main drawcard here is portability, which you can set-up while on the move or working from anywhere. Using a desktop in a coffee shop? Sold! Price: $4,999


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="884" height="1024" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Nespresso-Creatista-copy-884x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-60678" style="width:328px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Nespresso-Creatista-copy-884x1024.png 884w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Nespresso-Creatista-copy-259x300.png 259w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Nespresso-Creatista-copy-768x890.png 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Nespresso-Creatista-copy-1326x1536.png 1326w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Nespresso-Creatista-copy-1768x2048.png 1768w" sizes="(max-width: 884px) 100vw, 884px" /></figure></div>


Nespresso Creatista Plus 



Nothing beats starting the day with a good cup of coffee, and the Nespresso Creatista Plus offers just that with its café- style options thanks to its fully automatic steam wand. As its name suggests, the creativity kicks in through its ability to create latte art using Breville’s milk texturing technology. Its stylish, sleek design with a high- gloss finish would suit most homes, taking up minimal counter space. The Creatista Plus has a three second heat-up time and offers eight coffee selections, four frothing levels, and 11 milk temperature settings using its 19-bar pressure system. It has an assisted cleaning system and automatically switches off after nine minutes. Price: $649


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="938" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/FOM-Duffle-1024x938.png" alt="" class="wp-image-60675" style="width:408px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/FOM-Duffle-1024x938.png 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/FOM-Duffle-300x275.png 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/FOM-Duffle-768x704.png 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/FOM-Duffle-1536x1407.png 1536w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/FOM-Duffle-2048x1876.png 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></div>


<h4 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-freedom-of-movement-franklin-dufle">Freedom of Movement Franklin dufle</h4>



Freedom of Movement is a South African lifestyle brand that offers stylish leather accessories, and its Franklin du-ffe bag has caught our eye. The Franklin, crafted from premium pecan leather is the perfect weekend bag, also suited for quick business trips. Apart from its main large interior, it has an outside back pocket, and two lined zipped ones on the inside for valuables. It is finished off with antique brass fittings, an embossed logo that makes it look understated, and a removable adjustable shoulder strap. The duffel fits in an overhead compartment on a flight. Price: $290



<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/AppleWatch-Ultra2-1024x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60673 size-full" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/AppleWatch-Ultra2-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/AppleWatch-Ultra2-300x300.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/AppleWatch-Ultra2-150x150.jpg 150w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/AppleWatch-Ultra2-768x768.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/AppleWatch-Ultra2-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/AppleWatch-Ultra2-2048x2048.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-apple-watch-ultra-2">Apple Watch Ultra 2</h4>



When it comes to smartwatches, Apple is leading in the space, and for good reason – it’s intuitive with a familiar interface. The latest Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the first carbon- neutral Apple product when paired with the Trail or Alpine Loop interchangeable band. Its new S9 chip enables gestures by pinching your thumb and index finger, offers its brightest display of 3000 nits for the outdoors, and advancements for altitude ranges, on-device Siri, and water adventures, which is essentially a diving computer on your wrist. Paired with the new WatchOS10 update, its redesigned interface offers Smart Stack, new cycling experiences and features for the outdoors, plus unique watch faces. It promises 36 hours of battery in regular use and 72 hours in low power mode. Price: $799
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<div class="wp-block-media-text has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile"><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sennheiser-momentum-4">Sennheiser Momentum 4</h3>



Being productive while working from anywhere or traveling requires a solid pair of noise cancellation headphones. Available in black or white, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 promises a whopping 60 hours of battery life from a single charge. Its lightweight design, complete with touch controls, lends toward comfort for hours on end, without your ears taking the strain. It offers adaptive noise cancellation, transparency mode, and customized sound, which can be accessed on its smartphone app. Connectivity options include Bluetooth, an audio jack or USB-C. A quick five-minute charge yields four hours of playback. It comes with a carry case, 1.2-meter charging cable, auxiliary cable, and airplane seat adaptor. Price: $380
</div><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="989" height="1024" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Sennheiser-Momentum-989x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-60682 size-full" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Sennheiser-Momentum-989x1024.png 989w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Sennheiser-Momentum-290x300.png 290w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Sennheiser-Momentum-768x795.png 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Sennheiser-Momentum-1484x1536.png 1484w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Sennheiser-Momentum-1978x2048.png 1978w" sizes="(max-width: 989px) 100vw, 989px" /></figure></div>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="940" height="1024" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/OneWorld135-940x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-60680" style="width:324px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/OneWorld135-940x1024.png 940w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/OneWorld135-275x300.png 275w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/OneWorld135-768x836.png 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/OneWorld135-1411x1536.png 1411w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/OneWorld135-1881x2048.png 1881w" sizes="(max-width: 940px) 100vw, 940px" /></figure></div>


<h4 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-oneadaptr-oneworld135">OneAdaptr OneWorld135 </h4>



For the frequent business traveler and power user looking for convenience, check out OneAdaptr’s brand new OneWorld135 universal plug that works in over 200 countries. Between its three USB-C ports, two are powerful 100W ports that can power a Macbook Pro or notebook equivalent, alongside a USB-A port and a 2-pin AC outlet. It has some of the highest safety certifications available that protects the voltage, current, temperature with fuse protection. The OneWorld 135 features Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology that ensures the highest efficiency in a small package that’s the size of a credit card. It ships with a travel bag. Price: $129

The family is happily exchanging gifts at Christmas.

Luxe Is More: African Gift Guide

Is fashion a form of art? The question stirs debate, but there is no right or wrong answer. Art remains a form of expression and we portray ourselves by what we wear and also create as artists. This is how stories are told, spirits are lifted and people are inspired; the play of color, contrasts and textures. We have curated a fruity palette across various woven and printed fabrics to brighten up your holiday wardrobe, adding texture with the appliqué of roses seen on fashion runways in recent weeks and complementing with bold jewelry to create elegant, vibrant and playful couture. 



STYLIST: Deneal Van Wyk| ART DIRECTION: Lucy Nkosi| PHOTOGRAPHY: Katlego Mokubyane of NeKatz Studio| MAKE-UP: Vanessa Unamaca- Makolemade Beauty| ART CURATOR: Serena Moodley_Anderson| LOCATION: Conrad Culture– BLAIRGOWRIE, JOHANNESBURG



<figure class="wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="FRAMING ELEGANCE: The Medley Of Art And Fashion" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mK_ZXtwPX8c?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Video by Chanel Retief </figcaption></figure>



<div class="wp-block-media-text has-media-on-the-right" style="grid-template-columns:auto 54%"><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
On the wall: (Middle) South African artist Serena Moodley-Anderson’s ‘His Story’ R6,500/$354 (Left and right) Serena Moodley- Anderson ‘Comfortable Silence’ R1,500/$82 each



GIFT MUDI- Fashion Model, Make-Up Artist



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Kate Spade Floral Clip On Ear Cuff-R2,990/$165</li>



<li>Gold Statement Karl Lagerfeld Choker With Pearl Detailing-R3,990/$220</li>



<li>DFLO Multi Coloured Flower, Shimmer Dress – R5,500/$303</li>



<li>Karl Lagerfeld Gold Linked Cuff-R1,990/$110</li>



<li>Europa Art Black Mule With Gold Strap – R3,290/$181</li>
</ul>
</div><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="682" height="1024" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0268-1-682x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60582 size-full" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0268-1-682x1024.jpg 682w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0268-1-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0268-1-768x1153.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0268-1-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0268-1-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0268-1.jpg 1478w" sizes="(max-width: 682px) 100vw, 682px" /></figure></div>



<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0275-1-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60585 size-full" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0275-1-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0275-1-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0275-1-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0275-1-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0275-1-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0275-1.jpg 1407w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
DAVID BLOCH Multi-Award-Winning International Show Producer, Creative Director, Entertainment Manager



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Franc Elis Printed Orange Shirt – R2,300/$127</li>



<li>Franc Elis Orange Suit –R15,000/$824</li>



<li>Silver Karl Lagerfeld Linked Bracelet: R2,590/$143</li>



<li>Silver Karl Lagerfeld Diamanté Linked Ring – R1,190/$66</li>



<li>Europa Art Suede Beige Loafers – R4,690/$258</li>
</ul>
</div></div>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote has-text-align-center is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow">
“IT’S INCREDIBLE TO SEE THE KIND OF DESIGNS AND THE KIND OF FABRICS AND TEXTURES THAT PEOPLE ARE PLAYING WITH. IT’S JUST INCREDIBLE. I MEAN, FASHION TODAY IS ART!” — David Bloch
</blockquote>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="705" height="1024" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0149-1-705x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60581" style="width:477px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0149-1-705x1024.jpg 705w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0149-1-207x300.jpg 207w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0149-1-768x1116.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0149-1-1057x1536.jpg 1057w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0149-1-1410x2048.jpg 1410w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0149-1.jpg 1560w" sizes="(max-width: 705px) 100vw, 705px" /></figure></div>


On the wall: Molefe Thwala of TACS Portrait ‘Isimemo II’ R22,000/$1,198



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Balmain Printed Golfer Shirt &#8211; R22,010/$1,215</li>



<li>Karl Lagerfeld Silver Diamanté Linked Bracelet – R2,690/$148</li>



<li>Silver Karl Lagerfeld Ring – R1,690/$93</li>



<li>Balmain Navy Pants –R19,760/$1,085</li>



<li>Europa Art Navy Shoes –R4,890/$269</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-a-neutral-outlook">A Neutral Outlook</h2>



No longer classified as washed-out or boring, neutral tones have come to the fore and are here to stay. Make a statement in these subtle but trendy tones.



<div class="wp-block-media-text" style="grid-template-columns:69% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2480" height="2086" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/79.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60631 size-full" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/79.jpg 2480w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/79-300x252.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/79-1024x861.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/79-768x646.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/79-1536x1292.jpg 1536w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/79-2048x1723.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 2480px) 100vw, 2480px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>STOCKISTS</li>



<li><a href="http://www.alexandermcqueen.com">Alexander McQueen</a></li>



<li><a href="http://www.paulsmith.com"> Paul Smith</a> </li>



<li><a href="http://www.jimmychoo.com">Jimmy Choo</a></li>



<li><a href="http://www.farfetch.com">Farfetch</a> </li>



<li><a href="http://www.europaart.co.za">Europa Art</a></li>



<li><a href="http://www.shop-beauty.dior.co.za">Dior Beauty</a></li>



<li><a href="http://www.valentino.com">Valentino Garavani</a></li>
</ul>
</div></div>



“THE WAY YOU COMBINE YOUR OUTFITS, THE WAY YOU COLOR-COORDINATE, FOR ME, THAT IS ART. YOU CANNOT HAVE ONE WITHOUT THE OTHER.”— Gift Mudi



<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:54% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="682" height="1024" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0452-682x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60575 size-full" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0452-682x1024.jpg 682w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0452-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0452-768x1153.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0452-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0452-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0452.jpg 1478w" sizes="(max-width: 682px) 100vw, 682px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
On the wall: Serena Moodley-Anderson ‘Sophiatown Diptych’ R5,000/$272



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Karl Lagerfeld Gold Statement Earrings &#8211;R2,690/$148</li>



<li>Balmain Printed Jacket With Gold Buttons –R48,980/$2,690</li>



<li>Balmain Printed Skirt With Gold Buttons – R29,750/$1,634</li>
</ul>
</div></div>



<div class="wp-block-media-text has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:auto 46%"><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Europa Art White Bow Detail Pumps R3,990/$218</li>



<li>Europa Art White handbag-R2,990/$165</li>
</ul>
</div><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="682" height="1024" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0510-1-682x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60591 size-full" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0510-1-682x1024.jpg 682w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0510-1-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0510-1-768x1153.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0510-1-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0510-1-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0510-1.jpg 1478w" sizes="(max-width: 682px) 100vw, 682px" /></figure></div>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading alignwide has-text-align-center" id="h-tis-the-season-to-sparkle">‘Tis The Season To Sparkle</h1>



If you ever second-guessed wearing a sequinned little number, now is the perfect time. With all the festivities around the corner, you can dazzle the night away.



<div class="wp-block-media-text has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:auto 64%"><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>STOCKISTS: </li>



<li><a href="http://www.europaart.co.za">Europa Art</a></li>



<li><a href="http://www.arcstore.co.za">Arc Store</a></li>



<li><a href="http://www.valentino.com">Valentino, Garavani</a></li>



<li><a href="http://www.castelo.co.za">Castelo</a></li>



<li><a href="http://int.balmain.com">Balmain</a></li>



<li><a href="http://www.sunglasshut.com">Sunglass Hut</a> </li>



<li><a href="http://row.jimmychoo.com">Jimmy Choo</a></li>
</ul>
</div><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2480" height="2021" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/081.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60630 size-full" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/081.jpg 2480w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/081-300x244.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/081-1024x834.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/081-768x626.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/081-1536x1252.jpg 1536w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/081-2048x1669.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 2480px) 100vw, 2480px" /></figure></div>






<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="682" height="1024" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0399-682x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60572" style="width:600px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0399-682x1024.jpg 682w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0399-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0399-768x1153.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0399-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0399-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Forbes-Fashion0399.jpg 1478w" sizes="(max-width: 682px) 100vw, 682px" /></figure></div>


On the wall: ‘Left In The Dark’ (limited edition print) R5,000/$272 | ‘Battery Low’ (limited edition print) R5,000/$272



David wears: 



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Zegna duck Egg Linen Jacket – R12,240/$673 </li>



<li>Zegna Off White Jersey – R17,960/$987 </li>



<li>Zenga Duck Egg Linen Trousers – R28,420/$1,563</li>



<li>Europa Art Black Brogues: R4,890/$26</li>
</ul>



Gift wears



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Kate Spade Floral Drop Earrings &#8211; R4,990/$274 </li>



<li>Gold Ball Statement Karl Lagerfeld Necklace – R4,790/$262 </li>



<li>Bam Collective Yellow Pod Top – R4,800/$264 </li>



<li>Bam Collective Yellow Pod Skirt – R5,200/$286 </li>



<li>Europa Art Pink Bow Detailing Heels &#8211; R3,990/$215</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-homing-in">Homing In</h2>



Out with the old and in with the new. These items are aesthetic and will add prized pizzazz and festive fervor to your home spaces.


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="1016" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/83-1-1024x1016.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60635" style="width:530px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/83-1-1024x1016.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/83-1-300x298.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/83-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/83-1-768x762.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/83-1-1536x1524.jpg 1536w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/83-1-2048x2032.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></div>


STOCKISTS: <a href="http://morellirugs.co.za">Morelli Rugs</a>• <a href="http://www.luxdeco.com">Luxdeco</a> •<a href="http://www.blockandchisel.co.za">Block and Chisel</a> • <a href="http://carrolboyes.com">Carrol Boyes </a>• <a href="http://www.villeroyandboch.co.za">Villeroy &amp; Boch</a> • <a href="http://www.poetrystores.co.za">Poerty</a> • <a href="http://www.bossplus1shop.com">BossPlus1</a>

Forbes Fashion0532

Framing Elegance: The Medley Of Art And Fashion In South Africa

Susan Tusabe’s NGO in Uganda has grown to include over 600 children and 90 mothers, with activities expanding from static book clubs to a mobile library, menstrual and mental health education, leadership workshops, agricultural instruction, digital competency, and support for a boys’ football academy.



A proverb in Luganda, one of Uganda’s luxuriant abundance of languages, enjoins: okutambula kulaba, okudda kunyumya. Experience life, and return to tell your story.



The liberating power of storytelling is the beating heart of Kampala’s arts education and literacy NGO Art of a Child. Its Founding Director, Susan Tusabe, started the organization in 2016, after recognizing an appetite for reading in the children she met on her daily walk to work.



“I used to take a path through a slum area in a suburb called Kabalagala,” she says. “The children I met showed a hunger for information. If I took books for them, they would show more interest; if I didn&#8217;t show up, they would look for me. At some point, I was told that kids in the slums were not interested in reading; that I should look for another thing to do for them, like providing food. But I realized children are not really interested in other handouts; they&#8217;re actually looking for information.”



Ad hoc visits and book distributions matured into a Book Club, where stories were read aloud to include children whose literacy levels were still low. “They needed guidance on how to read books,” Tusabe says. “They had never experienced hearing a story like Jack and the Beanstalk. So they were very excited.”



Those nascent meetings attracted around 30 children; the NGO’s portfolio of programs has now grown to include over 600 children and 90 mothers, with activities expanding from static book clubs to a mobile library, menstrual and mental health education, leadership workshops, agricultural instruction, digital competency, and support for a boys’ football academy.



Tusabe says this diversification has allowed Art of a Child to meet the changing needs of the different communities it serves.



“Literacy has evolved; it&#8217;s really no longer about just reading or writing,” she says. “Literate individuals should be able to use knowledge to develop their communities. We want young people to be able to make a positive change.”



The program’s alumni have gone on to innovate solutions to problems experienced in their own childhoods. “Some girls have started up a project called School Pads, addressing period poverty,” says Tusabe. “They believe the project will reduce the number of school dropouts. Some are focusing on the environment, planting trees in their communities. And we talk to them about being able to equip themselves economically; a few have started shoemaking, another is making beauty products. So it&#8217;s a mixture of leaders.”



The success of these programs has offset the challenges an NGO of this kind often faces in both urban and rural settings: an initial resistance to outreach which doesn’t always provide an immediate tangible benefit. “Maybe because of what they have seen, or whichever organizations they have dealt with, they expect a scholarship or allowances, a reward for being there. But the ones who stay actually gain more. For example, those who are growing mushrooms have made a lot of money, to the extent that they have created savings, and are able to buy equipment.”



A further beneficiary of the NGO’s diversified offering is the Wolfgang Football Academy in the rural district of Masaka, about 80 miles southwest of Kampala. Its founder, qualified coach Rodin Joseph Bugembe, says that 30 boys now live onsite, with a further 20 traveling from other communities to take part in daily training. The academy has integrated Art of a Child’s literacy and leadership programs to build an environment which nurtures every aspect of the children’s development.



“We try to create three pillars: education, character, and football,” he says, as a thrilling, full-blooded tournament throttles past him on a dusty pitch; one boy hits a volley so fearsome it knocks the entire goal frame off its moorings (Bugembe says the academy is always in need of new footballs, more coaches to accelerate the boys’ training, and robust and reliable healthcare provision).



“Character means what you are, and what you do,” he says. “So here, these boys gain confidence and self-esteem, and are able to express themselves in public. We need everyone to work together with us, and Art of a Child, to find for the boys a good life.”

Susan Tusabe; image supplied

How This Ugandan Social Entrepreneur Is Liberating Communities With Literacy

Mbongeni Buthelezi&#8217;s fascination with turning discarded materials into meaningful art is evident, and his creative sanctuary is a testament to his unwavering dedication.



It is the middle of July in South Africa and everyone is dressed head to toe in full winter gear, including Mbongeni Buthelezi as he opens the entrance to his studio for me.



The immediate assumption one makes at this point is “oh no, it&#8217;s going to an ice cold studio”. However, as you walk in, you are greeted with a large warehouse space with expansive windows allowing a good amount of sunlight into the building. These allow Buthelezi to see his work accurately and also provide the space with a welcoming source of heat. The heat guns that Buthelezi and his assistant have going to apply the plastic to the canvas of his latest piece also provide an element of warmth as they had clearly been doing this for the previous few hours.



The studio itself is a haven of transformation. As one enters, the artistic journey that Buthelezi has embarked upon becomes palpable. The creations within are diverse and captivating, ranging from pieces that could be mistaken for oil or watercolor paintings to sculptures that stretch over seven feet in height, even extending to custom-designed dining tables. Buthelezi&#8217;s fascination with turning discarded materials into meaningful art is evident, and his creative sanctuary is a testament to his unwavering dedication.



When asked about his journey as an artist, Buthelezi&#8217;s response is: &#8220;This is my whole life. For me, it all really began in 1985 when I first stepped into an art class. By 1992, I had transitioned from part-time exploration to full-time immersion into this art thing.”


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="682" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/WhatsApp-Image-2023-08-22-at-10.19.10-1024x682.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60304" style="width:588px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/WhatsApp-Image-2023-08-22-at-10.19.10-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/WhatsApp-Image-2023-08-22-at-10.19.10-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/WhatsApp-Image-2023-08-22-at-10.19.10-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/WhatsApp-Image-2023-08-22-at-10.19.10.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></div>


The years that followed were filled with growth, marked by the completion of an art teaching course and exploration of teaching art. As his commitment to his craft deepened, he navigated the realms of both artistic creation and education. However, due a few stubborn students he encountered along the way, the decision to take his art career into the realm of an independent artist was made all that much easier. He reflects: &#8220;Animals are dying, fish in the ocean are dying – because of this material and because of us as human beings. It is us that need to take responsibility.&#8221;



Buthelezi&#8217;s early years at art school as an artist are interwoven with the exploration of varied techniques. His journey as a student introduced him to a rich array of artistic methods, each of which contributed to the evolution of his craft. The culmination of these experiences granted him a versatile toolkit that enriched his artistic expression. A pivotal moment was a call for innovation, a desire to create something uniquely his own. The scarcity of resources, combined with financial constraints, propelled him to seek alternative media. Fueled by an ambition to break free from conventional artistic pathways, Buthelezi embarked on experimentation.



Buthelezi says: “There was a time that I once thought I need a change, I need to do something that would be unique and what was that going to be? At the beginning I had no money to buy paint, I didn’t really have enough money to make ends meet, to be honest. So I began to seriously look around and see what I could possibly do to be able to proceed with whatever it was that I wanted to achieve.”



By the 1990s, Buthelezi had cemented his status as a professional artist, channeling his craft to advocate for a healthier planet. His artworks, born from recycled plastics, encapsulate the essence of growing up in South African townships. Over the course of his career, he has harnessed art as a potent tool for education, sparking dialogues about the global menace of plastic pollution. He boldly asserts that the contemporary world offers abundant resources for art creation without necessitating additional manufacturing.



“Honestly my work has been displayed in exhibitions, festivals, workshops which have taken me to all kinds of places. Germany and Australia were two of my favorites. Vermont in Canada was amazing but very cold!” These exhibitions showcased the universality of his message. His art functions as a mirror reflecting societal realities, prompting discussions on pressing issues. “Last year I engaged in a discussion on plastic innovation at the South African National Science and Technology Forum. Later in the year, I was set to participate in an art and environment festival in Abu Dhabi.”


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Amidst the acclaim, Buthelezi has encountered sceptics questioning the sustainability of his



technique due to the eventual depletion of plastic resources. “However, I welcome this outcome as it really does align with my work&#8217;s purpose which is highlighting the true urgency of plastic pollution in the world.”



In his ongoing journey, Buthelezi not only creates art but also fosters conversations and inspires change, which in his opinion is the purpose of art. As he prepares for engagements and exhibitions, his commitment to being an artist mirrors society and stands as a testament to the transformative power of creativity. The fusion of innovation, environmental consciousness, and advocacy underscores the significance of his work in addressing global challenges. He combines artistic expression with environmental advocacy, using recycled plastics.



His art sparks dialogues on plastic pollution globally. His work is a testament to the transformative power of creativity, addressing global challenges through innovation and advocacy. A truly visionary man being the change in the world that he wants to see. Maybe we could all take a little something from that.

Mbongeni Buthelezi uses plastic for his art

Plastic To Paint: The South African Combining Artistic Expression With Environmental Advocacy

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-topline">TOPLINE</h2>



The Geminids meteor shower—which <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/solar-system/meteors-meteorites/geminids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA calls</a> one of the “best and most reliable” yearly meteor showers—returned on Sunday and is slated to run through December 24, with a peak in three weeks, though no equipment is required to see it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">KEY FACTS</h2>



The shower peaks between December 13 and December 14, but it may still be visible beforehand with the proper observing conditions, NASA&nbsp;<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/solar-system/meteors-meteorites/geminids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>.



The shower is best viewed during the night before dawn, and because it usually starts earlier than other showers, between 9 p.m. and 10 p.m., it’s considered one of the best for young viewers, according to NASA.



A dark, open sky away from city or street lights is ideal, and the best viewing position is laying flat on the back with feet facing the south—binoculars and telescopes typically aren’t needed.



Though it will be visible everywhere in the night sky, from Earth’s perspective, the Geminids meteor shower appears to originate from the direction of the Gemini constellation, which is northeast of the Orion constellation,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.space.com/34921-geminid-meteor-shower-guide.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">according</a>&nbsp;to Space.



The Geminids meteor shower is fast, very bright, and mainly made up of white meteors, though there are some yellow, green, blue, and red ones,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rmg.co.uk/stories/topics/geminid-meteor-shower-uk-dates-how-to-see" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">according</a>&nbsp;to the Royal Museums Greenwich.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">BIG NUMBER</h2>



120. That’s how many meteors can be seen per hour during the shower’s peak season,&nbsp;<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/solar-system/meteors-meteorites/geminids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">according</a>&nbsp;to NASA. This makes the Geminids stream one of the “strongest” annual showers. In comparison, the&nbsp;<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/solar-system/meteors-meteorites/leonids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Leonids</a>&nbsp;shower—which peaked last weekend—has about 15 meteors per hour, the&nbsp;<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/solar-system/meteors-meteorites/orionids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Orionids</a>&nbsp;shower has 23 and the&nbsp;<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/solar-system/meteors-meteorites/perseids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Perseids</a>&nbsp;shower peaks at around 100 meteors per hour.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">KEY BACKGROUND</h2>



The Geminids meteor shower was&nbsp;<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/solar-system/meteors-meteorites/geminids/%5C" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">first discovered</a>&nbsp;in the 1800s, and the first showers only displayed between 10 and 20 meteors per hour. The Geminids stream has since grown into one of the “most intense” meteor showers, and is unique because it’s one of the only showers to originate from an asteroid, according to a June&nbsp;<a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/PSJ/acd538" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">paper</a>&nbsp;published in the&nbsp;Planetary Science Journal. Most meteor showers are made of comet debris, but the Geminids stream originates from the asteroid&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/solar-system/asteroids-comet-like-tail-is-not-made-of-dust-solar-observatories-reveal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">3200 Phaethon</a>. Because comets are made of ice, when they travel close to the Sun, they melt and release a trail of ice and dust that eventually turns into a meteor shower. However, because asteroids are made of metal and rocks and aren’t affected by the Sun’s heat, many scientists are confused how 3200 Phaethon formed a meteor shower. The most likely answer is the asteroid violently collided with another object, causing the trail of debris that makes up the Geminids stream, according to the&nbsp;Planetary Science Journal&nbsp;study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">TANGENT</h2>



This year, the Geminids stream’s peak coincides with the new moon, which falls on December 12,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.amsmeteors.org/meteor-showers/meteor-shower-calendar/#Geminids" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">according</a>&nbsp;to the American Meteor Society. The moon will be 1% full around this time, making the night’s sky dark and creating an ideal viewing environment for the meteor shower.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">FURTHER READING</h2>



<a href="https://www.space.com/34921-geminid-meteor-shower-guide.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geminid meteor shower 2023: When, where &amp; how to see it</a>&nbsp;(Space)



<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/britneynguyen/2023/11/17/leonid-meteor-shower-peaks-tonight-heres-how-to-watch/?sh=54baa8b0195b">Leonid Meteor Shower Peaks Tonight—Here’s How To Watch</a>&nbsp;(Forbes)

Geminid Meteor Shower In China

How To Watch Geminids Meteor Shower: One Of This Year’s ‘Most Intense’ Showers Has Returned

Adesola Yusuf posing with one of his artworks

Pictures, Pixels And Profits: Technology As Canvas In Nigeria

An exhibition of contemporary African photography is on at the Tate Modern in London. This writer left not with a sense of a completed narrative, but with a feeling of energized possibility, and the rush of discovering fresh, reconfigured horizons.



How to find the common in the uncommon, the unifying oneness in a disparate whole? Can Africa’s thousands of cultures and languages ever be distilled into a comprehensible photographic representation of an entire continent’s creative impulse? This is the challenge courageously and pugnaciously accepted by the exhibition A World in Common: Contemporary African Photography running through to January 2024 at the Tate Modern gallery in London.


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<figure class="alignleft size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Leonce-Raphael-Agbodjelou-Untitled-Egungun-series-2012.-Copyright-The-Artist.-Courtesy-Jack-Bell-Gallery-2-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60200" style="aspect-ratio:0.6669921875;width:419px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Leonce-Raphael-Agbodjelou-Untitled-Egungun-series-2012.-Copyright-The-Artist.-Courtesy-Jack-Bell-Gallery-2-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Leonce-Raphael-Agbodjelou-Untitled-Egungun-series-2012.-Copyright-The-Artist.-Courtesy-Jack-Bell-Gallery-2-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Leonce-Raphael-Agbodjelou-Untitled-Egungun-series-2012.-Copyright-The-Artist.-Courtesy-Jack-Bell-Gallery-2-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Leonce-Raphael-Agbodjelou-Untitled-Egungun-series-2012.-Copyright-The-Artist.-Courtesy-Jack-Bell-Gallery-2-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Leonce-Raphael-Agbodjelou-Untitled-Egungun-series-2012.-Copyright-The-Artist.-Courtesy-Jack-Bell-Gallery-2-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Leonce-Raphael-Agbodjelou-Untitled-Egungun-series-2012.-Copyright-The-Artist.-Courtesy-Jack-Bell-Gallery-2-scaled.jpg 1707w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Leonce Raphael Agbodjelou, Untitled (Egungun series), 2012. Copyright The Artist. Courtesy Jack Bell Gallery </figcaption></figure></div>


“African photography is recognizable, to those aware of the history of studio portraiture, or of the way Africa is portrayed in documentary photography,” says the exhibition’s curator, Osei Bonsu. “But I was interested in all of the ways in which artists, particularly over the last 10 to 15 years, had completely blown open the perception of what African photography might be; ways that challenged and confounded many of those assumptions about the relationship between photography and the continent. So it was less about this idea of an overarching survey, as this slightly amorphous and impossible-to-define area of activity, and more about locating multiple perspectives that would come together to illuminate some of the key topics and ideas that these artists are engaged with.”



The result is a dizzying whistle-stop tour across three thematic territories: Identity and Tradition, Counter Histories, and Imagined Futures. The viewer is thus drawn and signposted through the exhibition aboard imaginative platforms, rather than the formal conventions of a linear retrospective, in a sort of taster menu of African inspiration: Hassan Hajjaj’s kinetic fusions of fashion photography and the roadside kiosk; Leonce Raphael Agbodjélou’s arrestingly charismatic portraits of quasi-monstrous Yoruba ‘Egungun’ costumes; Mário Macilau’s monochrome double-takes on the horrors of photojournalism; the serenely melodramatic staging of Maïmouna Guerresi’s scenes of prosaic ritual. The exhibition closes with an immersive video installation by Julianknxx, featuring a hypnotic, thrumming dance sequence, shot like a communiqué from a viridescent African Atlantis.



A consistent identifiable dichotomy arose during the exhibition’s research phase, between the commercial bread and butter of the photographers’ everyday practice and the more experimental work they had developed. 



“These artists embraced photography in ways that undermine or question some of the colonial or exoticizing assumptions around the relationship between African peoples and the photographic medium. This ‘B-roll’, the flip side of what they were doing, was much more subversive than their commercial work,” Bonsu says. 



“And what that revealed is that this idea of the split between the conceptual and the documentary is an arbitrary one.” There is an implicit provocation to the audience embedded in this confident, confrontational demand for the artists’ output to be apprehended on its own terms; much of the work playfully exploits a thrilling tension between an observer’s expectations and the creative authenticity of the photographer’s vision.



Bonsu says that the exhibition has benefited greatly from the evolution of the medium and its new plasticity; work can not only be sourced from all over the continent and the diaspora, but also be presented in formats that blur and expand photography’s traditional framings. “I think this has liberated contemporary photographers from many of the limiting structures that we know 



many African artists face, whether it be lack of government infrastructure, or lack of mobility,” he says. “Those reductive estimations that Africa wasn’t a space of invention, of intellectual and cultural innovation, are of course a myth.



And it’s a myth that serves much of the colonial history that the exhibition also deals with.” To that end, the show shifts the audience’s perspective through a range of vantage points, media and scales, though there is perhaps an opportunity missed to fill one of the Tate’s gigantic spaces with the kind of colossal image its ambition deserves – an outsized encounter with the teetering sublime of Africa’s infinite complexity might have served as an emotional approximation of the overwhelming vastness of its subject.


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="741" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/George-Osodi-HRH-Queen-Hajiya-Hadizatu-Ahmedu-magajiya-of-Knubwada-2012.-Courtesy-of-George-Osodi-and-TAFETA-1024x741.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60202" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/George-Osodi-HRH-Queen-Hajiya-Hadizatu-Ahmedu-magajiya-of-Knubwada-2012.-Courtesy-of-George-Osodi-and-TAFETA-1024x741.jpg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/George-Osodi-HRH-Queen-Hajiya-Hadizatu-Ahmedu-magajiya-of-Knubwada-2012.-Courtesy-of-George-Osodi-and-TAFETA-300x217.jpg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/George-Osodi-HRH-Queen-Hajiya-Hadizatu-Ahmedu-magajiya-of-Knubwada-2012.-Courtesy-of-George-Osodi-and-TAFETA-768x556.jpg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/George-Osodi-HRH-Queen-Hajiya-Hadizatu-Ahmedu-magajiya-of-Knubwada-2012.-Courtesy-of-George-Osodi-and-TAFETA-1536x1112.jpg 1536w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/George-Osodi-HRH-Queen-Hajiya-Hadizatu-Ahmedu-magajiya-of-Knubwada-2012.-Courtesy-of-George-Osodi-and-TAFETA-2048x1483.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">George Osodi, HRH Queen Hajiya Hadizatu Ahmedu magajiya of Knubwada, 2012. Courtesy of George Osodi and TAFETA</figcaption></figure></div>


There is still much to admire about this exciting, expansive exhibition, with its democratic embrace of both the vibrantly aesthetic and the viscerally provoking. “There are histories of struggle and resistance that are ever present,” Bonsu says. 



“But there are also the histories of difference that exist within the fabric of how cultures communicate: through language, through images. That notion of ‘in-betweenness’ is not so much physical, but the psychological in-betweenness that many African diasporic communities can relate to. It’s quite particular to a history of colonial violence, bound up in a deep knowing of one’s heritage, but also this desire to move forward. The exhibition doesn’t try to glaze over the realities that undergird these contemporary histories. The story is still unfolding, and we tried to really embrace that. It’s a challenge for our audiences to really go on that journey with us. They’re not going to have a conclusive sense of a kind of beginning and ending.”



Thus you leave the exhibition not with a sense of a completed narrative, but with a feeling of energized possibility, the rush of discovering fresh, reconfigured horizons.



“It’s that positivity, weighted with this idea of agency – many of the artists are almost suggesting that changing the world isn’t entirely out of reach, that photography itself, at some level, has the possibility to reach into the realm of the imagination,” Bonsu says. “And in doing so, maybe that liberates us – as viewers, as audiences – to think differently about the world we experience.”

History, Identity, Imagination: African Photography In London

The Covid-19 pandemic brought unprecedented change to many lives around the world but for a group of daredevils in Ghana, it sparked a passion to explore the world by road.



The group of friends with wide-ranging interests and careers ranging from banking, education, technology and real estate, and also travel enthusiasts, saw an opportunity to use the lockdown to ignite their expedition.



“We started traveling in Ghana because of Covid. We couldn’t get out of Ghana and one funeral to Tamale, in Northern Ghana, inspired the passion for traveling. We began to travel sometimes for funerals, other times for weddings and for work,” says Richard Osei-Anim, an education technology entrepreneur who is part of the group.



Osei-Anim works to deploy smart labs and technology for schools in rural areas. Some of the hard-to-reach areas he works in – such as in Northern Ghana – requires travel by road, and that is what birthed his love for travel. On one of these trips with the group, initially consisting of five team members, one of them suggested going on a 10,000km journey to the United Kingdom (UK).


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<figure class="alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/IMG_7679.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-60171" style="aspect-ratio:0.75;width:367px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/IMG_7679.jpeg 768w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/IMG_7679-225x300.jpeg 225w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


“We have this saying we use that ‘what’s the worst that could happen’. So, when the idea was suggested, we were all up for it. Later on, some other members joined which brought our group to about 10 people in all,” recalls Osei-Anim.



This was in 2019 before the Covid pandemic.



“Kwabena Peprah, who is the OCD one amongst us, is our lead planner. He pulled the Excel spreadsheets and put in all the components from the type of car we would use, the spark plugs, windows, the tyres we will need, the cans for petrol and everything in between. We had a whole spreadsheet of data that had been acquired over the years. We postponed it to 2023 but it [meant] about six to nine months of planning and speaking to different people,” says Osei-Anim.



In 2022, the group had also attempted to climb to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro.



“We didn’t make it all the way to the top. I got to 4,000 meters and Kwabena and the other guys got to 5,000 meters. So, we couldn’t make it, but it was a useful experience and we ended up in Zanzibar for about three days just to chill.”



With friendships in the group going back more than 30 years, there is true camaraderie here. After almost a year of planning, the group set off this year for their planned journey to the UK, from their starting point in Oyarifa, Ghana with a convoy of five cars.



“It took us 14 days to get from Accra to London. We started off from Oyarifa in Aburi, then crossed over to Ivory Coast, then Bamako, then Kayes, then Senegal, then Mauritania to Morocco and some of us left in Morocco to go to Johannesburg to work. The rest of the group crossed over by ferry to Spain, then went to France, then Calais to Dover and ended up in Kent,” says Osei-Anim.



Planning for the trip had to be airtight to ensure they covered the 14-day journey in good time.



“We aimed for departure at 4AM and always considered all scenarios that could potentially delay us unnecessarily. For example, we usually settle all bills the night before so when we wake up, we check out without any drama – like someone’s card not working or no forex to change into local currencies,” says Osei-Anim.



The trip led to the creation of Wanderlust Ghana, a travel blog to chronicle the adventures across some 10 countries. One of the travelers, Kwabena Ayirebi, also Director, Banking Operations at African Export-Import Bank, used the attention from the epic journey to London to raise funds to help connect communities across Ghana and Kenya to digital learning with a platform called EduSpots.



“I first went to London from Accra through a British Chevening Scholarship and that gave me the chance to have a global career. I saw the journey to London as an opportunity to celebrate my birthday, raise funds for a good cause and experience the amazing continent of Africa,” says Ayirebi.



The group stayed at hotels in each destination and the entire trip cost an average of $10,000 per person. The main challenges were mechanical issues ranging from changing car tyres to spark plugs and everything in between.


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<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/A-road-trip-that-led-to-the-creation-of-a-travel-blog-image-supplied.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-60173" style="aspect-ratio:1.3333333333333333;width:646px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/A-road-trip-that-led-to-the-creation-of-a-travel-blog-image-supplied.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/A-road-trip-that-led-to-the-creation-of-a-travel-blog-image-supplied-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://cms.forbesafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/A-road-trip-that-led-to-the-creation-of-a-travel-blog-image-supplied-768x576.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A road-trip that led to the creation of a travel blog, image supplied</figcaption></figure></div>


“I would advise that if you want to take on this journey, make sure you are using very reliable cars. Our cars were quite old with some of them having about 500,000km already and even though we regularly service them, they gave us some issues,” says Osei-Anim.



Another advice is to be mindful of the local rules in various countries. For example, Mauritania has a policy against using tinted windows on cars which the group was not aware of.



“This was the worst experience on the trip as the policemen extorted us and kept us for about eight hours in Mauritania. They threatened to impound us for 48 hours and after illegally taking our money we were finally allowed to pass through,” says Osei-Anim.



After two weeks, the group arrived in Kent to a rousing welcome from the Ghana High Commission in London and along the way, had garnered enough media attention for their epic journey.



With the success of this trip, the group already have their eyes set on their next set of adventures which includes a road trip from Accra to Cape Town next year, then an eight-day expedition in Australia from Perth to Brisbane, then a Dubai via Egypt to Accra expedition and finally hitting all the football stadiums across North America to Alaska in the World Cup year of 2026.

A road-trip that led to the creation of a travel blog; image supplied

From Accra To London By Road: What The Trip Taught This Group Of Friends and Professionals From Africa

This New York City store has been preserving traditional Moroccan handicrafts for nearly 25 years. After the recent devastating earthquake in Morocco, they hope to do everything possible to bring the country back on its feet.



It’s not every day that Moroccans see a devastating earthquake crush their homes into rubble and leave them searching for missing family members. The earthquake in September was the strongest in more than a century, severely damaging towns and villages near the base of the Atlas mountains and ripping through the suburbs of Marrakesh.


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One community severely affected was women weavers. Known for its decorative rugs and handmade artifacts, Morocco’s weaving tradition dates back hundreds of years. The craft is passed down from generation to generation, and every rug has a unique story behind it: each rug symbolizes the weaver’s family. But the earthquake has made the future of this dying practice even more uncertain.



Communities from all across the globe came forward to help Morocco get back on its feet. One such group was the workers at ‘Imports from Marrakesh’, a store specializing in handcrafted Moroccan tiles, carpets, lighting and accessories in Manhattan, New York City.



“These weavers lost everything,” Stephanie Rudloe, a stylist and decorator, who oversees merchandising at the store, tells FORBES AFRICA. “It will take time for aid to reach them, and we need to do all we can to help them. We’re doing a fundraiser in the coming months with the rugs we previously bought from them.”



Working with the founder, Mohamed Elmaarouf, Rudloe opened the store nearly 25 years ago. Sharing their combined interest in Moroccan handicrafts, the duo made the store a pioneer in Chelsea Market when it first opened, and it continues to welcome new and old customers.



“We want people to have a special in-store experience,” Rudloe says. “It should feel like they’re in Morocco. The store is more like a museum designed as a shop. We want to support the work of local Moroccan artisans and have their pieces displayed with pride.”



‘Imports from Marrakesh’ keeps a selection of handicrafts anywhere between $20 and $5,000. Rudloe believes that the wide range makes the store accessible to everyone.



“Even if people don’t buy anything, we want to give them a cultural experience,” Rudloe says. “We have Moroccan music playing in the store, which adds to the atmosphere. Customers can feel like they’re in Morocco without having to travel.”



Rudloe feels that Moroccan rugs and furniture are special as they fit well with different kinds of interiors from all across the globe. People can be their own decorators and also have a collection of handmade things that have a spirit and character attached to them.



In the wake of the earthquake, Rudloe wishes that when people visit the store, they see the beauty of Morocco for themselves and are encouraged to provide aid to the country.



“I really hope that the store will make people go to Morocco, too,” Rudloe says. “The people there need our help right now. I hope our fundraisers will help them during this time and preserve a traditional culture that’s quickly becoming a dying art.”

Stephanie Rudloe, co-founder of Imports from Marrakesh; image supplied

How A Moroccan Store In New York Is Helping Weavers Back Home

Barely two years after his first sip of wine, Joseph Dhafana was head sommelier at the iconic La Colombe restaurant in Cape Town and began to explore making his own wine. His Mosi Wines and Spirits is a household name today.



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“We can’t all be actors or artists to tell our stories but I chose to tell mine by bottling it.”
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With its prolific wine region and world-class restaurants, Cape Town has long been the jewel in South Africa’s tourism crown. Yet the industry isn’t powered by good food and wine alone, but rather, by the dedication of its people. People like Joseph Tongai Dhafana, sommelier, wine judge and founder of Mosi Wines and Spirits. Impressive title aside, it’s Joseph’s story that truly sets him apart.



Dhafana now lives in Cape Town but grew up in Zimbabwe, an entire world away from his current life. He was raised in Chirumhanzu in the Midlands province, by parents who were subsistence farmers.



“I remember waking up as early as 03:00, going to the field to till the land with an ox-drawn plough. Then, when the sun rose I would run back home via the river to take a bath and get ready for a 12km walk to school – sometimes barefoot,” he explains. “These early mornings before school were very tough but they made me who I am today.”



This resilience is what would ultimately change the course of his life forever. In 2008, at the peak of Zimbabwe’s crisis, Dhafana made the difficult decision to leave his home country in search of better opportunities in South Africa. “Leaving was very painful and I had never dreamed of living outside Zimbabwe,” he says.



Initially, he worked as a gardener in Riebeek-Kasteel, a small town 80km outside of Cape Town, which led him to work in the garden for a local bar. Here, he moved to washing dishes and waiting tables and was soon promoted to barman, where life took another fortuitous turn. Here, Dhafana celebrated his 29th birthday and had his first taste of wine – a sparkling wine from nearby Riebeek Valley Wine Co. His first thoughts? “I didn’t like it,” he says simply. “I remember, the wine was quite tart and astringent with cutting acidity and that was very foreign to my palate.” He adds, “Now I can describe it but back then I had no words to explain how I felt. They now call me the ‘wine poet’.” &nbsp;



Despite a rocky start, this taste of wine awakened something in Dhafana, and before long he had enrolled to do a course at the Wine &amp; Spirit Education Trust; he joined the Cape Wine Academy and eventually, the South African Sommeliers Association, the Michael Fridjhon Wine Judging Academy and Court of Master Sommeliers Europe. Barely two years after that first sip, Dhafana was head sommelier at the iconic La Colombe restaurant and began to explore making his own wine.



“I had saved money and bought grapes to make a barrel each of Chenin Blanc and Syrah… in Riebeek-Kasteel, where it all started.”



Today, Joseph’s Mosi Wines and Spirits – named after breath-taking Victoria Falls nestled between Zimbabwe and Zambia – is a household name. Regularly appearing on the wine lists of the country’s top restaurants, there is no denying that his hard work and determination have paid off. “Seeing people swirling and sipping my wine just melts my heart,” he says. “I believe wine is a bottled story and this brand has a lot to say.”



Dhafana’s story is nothing short of remarkable, but as he says, there are a lot of stories like his out there. “I am proud of the person I am today but I am thankful to those who helped me.” He doesn’t take this gratitude lightly and now helps others wanting to enter the industry. “The journey has just started because I am already helping young up-and-coming sommeliers and wine stewards to do better than what I did.” And it doesn’t end there. Along with his work as a sommelier and a wine judge, he also helped establish and captain Team Zimbabwe at the World Blind Tasting Championships in 2017 and 2018, documented in the documentary, Blind Ambition. He is a board member of the Black Cellar Club, a non-profit that aims to promote a responsible wine and beverage industry in South Africa and is a judge for the country’s biggest annual restaurant awards, hosted by Eat Out magazine.



Having triumphed over immense challenges, Dhafana’s continued commitment to wine has enriched the industry. “We can’t all be actors or artists to tell our stories but I chose to tell mine by bottling it,” he adds.

Joseph Dhafana image supplied

From Zimbabwean Refugee To ‘Wine Poet’ In South Africa

Hydrogen powered fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) are extremely rare. BMW plans to bring a small fleet of iX5 Hydrogen cars to South Africa in 2024 to gauge interest with government representatives, thought leaders and potential customers. We got a sneak preview of the car at the IAA Mobility 2023 show in Munich.



The world’s largest hydrogen-powered mining vehicle was launched in South Africa by multi-national mining company Anglo American in 2022. The prototype mine haul hybrid truck uses 2MW of hydrogen fuel cells to carry 290-tonnes, designed specifically for mining conditions at Mogalakwena Mine, the world’s largest platinum mine, in the country’s Limpopo province.



At the launch, President Cyril Ramaphosa called it a historic event not because of the impressive piece of machinery, but for being the “genesis of an entire ecosystem powered by hydrogen”.



“This is a gigantic leap for South Africa’s hydrogen future economy,” said Ramaphosa.



Fast forward to the Festival of Motoring in Johannesburg in August this year, when BMW showcased a unique vehicle flown in from its global fleet: an iX5 Hydrogen vehicle.



The display drew lots of attention from visitors. Peter van Binsbergen, the head of BMW Group South Africa, said there were many discussions locally about just energy transition, and with its trial fleet of the vehicle, it would contribute to the development of the hydrogen economy.



“I feel that a country like South Africa, and indeed a continent like Africa, has the ideal conditions to be a leader in generating green hydrogen for industrial and automotive applications,” said van Binsbergen.



In partnership with the South African government and other entities, Anglo American conducted a hydrogen valley feasibility study to identify three potential hubs in the cities of Johannesburg and Durban, and in Limpopo, to integrate hydrogen into the country’s economy.



It is reportedly estimated that the hydrogen valley concept could add between $4 billion to $9 billion to South Africa’s Gross Domestic Product by 2050 and create between 14,000 to 30,000 direct and indirect jobs per year.



Meanwhile, BMW plans to bring a small fleet of iX5 Hydrogen cars to South Africa in 2024 to gauge interest with government representatives, thought leaders and potential customers.



The German auto maker is due to make an announcement soon regarding an agreement with two large South African multinationals to work together to use hydrogen as an energy source.



Speaking to FORBES AFRICA ahead of the IAA Mobility 2023 show in Munich in September, Dr Jürgen Guldner, general program manager of hydrogen technology at the BMW Group, says the future of energy is electric.



“Electricity produced from solar, wind, and hydropower will be the backbone of our energy system, versus today where we produce energy from coal, gas, oil, and a little bit from the sun,” says Guldner.



Electricity has a few issues that can be solved with hydrogen, he explains; the main one being how difficult it is to store electricity over a long period of time. “You have to use something like hydrogen as a gas for chemical component molecules instead of electrons to store energy over longer periods of time, like several months.”



The feedback from BMW customers is that not all are 100% happy with a battery electric vehicle; they want to be emission-free but prefer to drive like they currently do without worrying about charging, he says.



“Hydrogen does exactly this; a hydrogen car is an electric car – the only difference is the energy is stored as hydrogen and not as electricity in a battery.”



The iX5 hydrogen prototype that FORBES AFRICA had access to briefly in Munich showcased the vehicles fitted with two 700-bar tanks that contain 6kg of hydrogen in total, which can be operated in any weather condition. The eDrive’s peak power battery can supply additional power boost on top of the electric energy from the fuel cell system.



The iX5 is based on the current BMW X5, has a total output of 296kW and a range of 504km without refueling the tanks. It can go from 0-100km/h in under six seconds, and has a top speed of 185km/h.



Hydrogen powered fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) are extremely rare, with only 15,391 units sold globally in 2022, representing 0.02% of global passenger sales when compared to the 10.5 million battery electric vehicles (BEVs) sold in 2022. In Japan alone, there was a huge drop in sales, from 2,440 vehicles sold in 2021, vs. 844 in 2022.



These stats were shared by BloombergNEF Electric Vehicle Outlook 2023 report, which said figures were so low that it could not make future projections: “We are not able to make a long-term outlook for passenger FCVs while sales are so low, show limited momentum and are highly concentrated in a few markets and models.”



There are two mass-produced hydrogen vehicles on sale today: the Toyota Mirai and the Hyundai Nexo. Upcoming FCEV models include the BMW iX5, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Staria, Kia Carnival, and Toyota GR Yaris H2.



While the industry is still an experimental one, there are concerns from scientists about the lack of data on hydrogen leaks and the potential harm they could cause, according to Reuters, which may cause a blind spot for the nascent industry. It said at least four studies concluded that hydrogen loses its environmental edge when it seeps into the atmosphere.



Despite this, the European Commission’s proposed REPowerEU plan aims to produce 10 million tons (MT) of renewable hydrogen and 10MT of imported renewable hydrogen by 2030, as part of achieving climate neutrality by 2050.

On Location BMW iX5 Hydrogen Antwerp

Hydrogen Cars On The Horizon In Africa

From being the 12th-largest beer-consuming nation to pioneering Rooibos-infused brews, South Africa&#8217;s beer industry shows no signs of slowing down, as we explore on International Beer Day.



Today marks International Beer Day and South Africa raises its glasses to an occasion that epitomizes its passion for beer. Marked every first Friday of August, this day brings together enthusiasts to revel in the endless creativity that characterizes the world of beer.



South Africa&#8217;s love for beer is legendary, a sentiment reflected in its status as the world&#8217;s 12th largest beer-consuming nation, with an annual consumption of roughly 34.47 million hectoliters. But beyond the impressive numbers lies a landscape brimming with innovation and cultural resonance. No longer confined to mass-produced lagers, South African beer has transformed into a dynamic palette of craft breweries, unique flavors, and a consumer base eager for new experiences.



Adele du Toit, SA Rooibos Council spokesperson, expressed her excitement about this trend: &#8220;The way we drink beer is changing because of how beer-makers are looking to innovate in the market. We&#8217;re seeing an uptake in craft breweries and brewing at home, allowing more personalization and bringing the experience of beer-making and enjoyment to the forefront,” she says to FORBES AFRICA.



South Africa&#8217;s brewing innovation is deeply rooted in its culinary heritage. Craft beer has taken center stage, with breweries experimenting with local spices, fruits, and particularly Rooibos, resulting in blends that are both intriguing and reflective of the nation&#8217;s rich culinary traditions.



Homebrewing is flourishing, adding a personal touch to the beer experience. Beer&#8217;s influence even extends into the culinary world, making surprising appearances in casseroles, desserts, and unique pairings like pickles and cheeses. From restaurants to microbreweries, tastings guide enthusiasts in discovering the perfect blend.



Rooibos-infused beer has become South Africa&#8217;s signature contribution to the global beer scene. Du Toit elaborates on why this combination is so compelling: &#8220;Rooibos and beer taste profiles are a great match and complement each other really well. The Rooibos taste profile, naturally sweet, mild, earthy, with fruity notes like peach and apricot, and most having caramel and vanilla notes, pairs beautifully with beer, especially light and malt beers, as well as ales and lagers. Nowhere else can it be duplicated in the world.”



Reflecting on the experimentation with Rooibos in breweries, she adds: &#8220;A lot of breweries are experimenting with Rooibos. It can be incorporated in different ways, even in cooking, and its taste pairs well with both sweet and savory dishes. Not just in South Africa; it&#8217;s gaining popularity with small and large breweries overseas as well.&#8221;



The future of South Africa&#8217;s beer industry looks bright, with the growing appeal of Rooibos-infused brews and a spirit of innovation that shows no signs of slowing down.



Whether enjoying a classic lager, savoring a Rooibos-infused craft brew, or indulging in a beer-and-cheese pairing, the options are as rich and diverse as South Africa itself. On International Beer Day, South Africa will not only be toasting to its favorite beverage but also celebrating the unique flavors and innovations that place it on the world beer map.

Finnish Brewer Launches NATO Beer As Finland Seeks NATO Membership

Ale Is Well: Why South Africa’s Unique Rooibos-Infused Craft Brews Are Gaining Popularity

Behind the sandbags, blast barriers, barbed wires and high walls, are impressive modern buildings in Somalia’s capital city. Despite the country struggling with war and drought, there is a strong pride in being Somali.



Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, is reportedly one of the most dangerous places in the world, off limits to most foreigners and a risky place for Somali government officials. Travel advisories don’t mince their words: “Do not travel to Somalia, due to armed conflict, the ongoing very high threat of terrorist attacks and kidnapping, and dangerous levels of violent crime,” they read.



For more than three decades Somalia has battled terrorism, drought, famine and war. A drive through its capital throws up reminders of the past in the form of bullet-ridden buildings and smashed concrete rubble that has been pushed to the side of the streets. In the middle of a main intersection where two truck bombings five years ago killed 587 people and injured 316, a donkey stands chewing on garbage, unfazed by the armed convoys driving past.



Four kilometers from the Green Zone, which is how distance is measured in this war-torn city, the once tarred roads are covered with sand and dust due to years of neglect. Styled on the Baghdad safe zone, the heavily-guarded security zone around Aden Adde airport is controlled by government security forces who man the checkpoints in and out.



It’s dangerous for non-Somalis to move around the capital. Most embassy, United Nations and NGO staff hold their meetings inside the Green Zone. Attacks by the al-Shabaab militant group have increased since the president recently ramped up an offensive against them and the areas of Somalia they control.



If you’re planning a trip to the capital, your first point of call is a security company. During my visit they advised me not to leave the secure compound where I slept and ate, at any time, for anything, without informing them.



Even a trip inside the Green Zone saw me being driven in a heavily-armed vehicle, wearing a bulletproof vest, as part of a convoy with six local contractors armed with AK47, riding in the front.



It wasn’t always like this. For millennia, this ancient port city connected traders across the Indian Ocean. In the 1800s, the country was colonized by Britain and Italy and the faded facades of mostly Italian architecture can be seen on some of the buildings.



While independence came in 1960, decades of civil war followed that virtually destroyed the economy and infrastructure and split Somalia into areas under the rule of various entities. Since the late 2000s, the US military has supported the government in its counter-terrorism operations as part of the ongoing ‘Global War on Terror’ that followed the September 11 attacks in 2001.



This has translated into more security and soldiers on the roads.



The struggle to survive underlies the friendliness and graciousness of the population. Soft-spoken and extremely polite, the Somalis I meet are those who work in the security compound that is my temporary home, as well as government officials and businessmen in their elaborate offices. It’s strange but behind the sandbags, blast barriers, barbed wires and high walls, are impressive modern buildings.



We arrive at one in a more rural part of the Mogadishu outskirts after passing a man sauntering down the road with an AK47 assault rifle casually slung over his shoulder. The driver confirms he’s alShabaab.



Driving into the complex, two watchguards are fast asleep on dirty mattresses in the garden, using their PK machine guns as pillows. They yawn, eye us, turn over and go back to sleep.



March and April are the hottest seasons and temperatures can soar to 34 degrees with 83% humidity. In a few months, unless something drastic and unforeseen happens, the country will be battling its sixth consecutive drought season. Dotted around the capital are camps for internally-displaced people that date back years but which still see newcomers arriving on a daily basis. The orange tarpaulin stick-framed structures shelter the estimated 1.3 million people who’ve moved here from other parts of the country. Eighty percent are women and children.



My security detail prevents me from leaving the safety of an armed Land Cruiser whenever we are on the roads. The vehicle fights its way through checkpoints, competing with an endless stream of mostly red three-wheeled bajajis (tuk-tuks) careering around – by far the most popular mode of transport in Mogadishu.



Through the bulletproof windows, hand-painted shops and garage signs bring color and vibrancy to the streets. New coffee houses are springing up in an attempt to introduce a sense of normality to the beleaguered capital. Women carry bundles of firewood on their heads as they walk along the pavements in their colorful hijabs while men play boardgames, lounging outside on plastic chairs.



Dromedary camels are in the middle of everything, often resting in the shade of a palm tree. I wish I could see more. I wish I could walk these streets and chat with the vendors who are endlessly curious to see foreigners. The country has a lot to offer. There are a number of historical sites, beaches, waterfalls, mountain ranges and national parks. After dozens of meetings and a brief glimpse into Somali life, it’s the resilience and optimism of the people that touches me the most.



I’m showered with a lot of hospitality and care, and despite the country struggling with war and drought, there is a strong pride in being Somali. Down-to-earth, people here are generally happy with what they have. There might be a lack of development and overwhelming challenges but as more than one Somali told me: “I only have one passport and this is my home, I have no intention of going anywhere else.”

Category: Life