I heartily rejoice with you, Governor Ademola Adeleke on your inauguration as the sixth Executive Governor of Osun State on Sunday, November 27, 2022. I have followed keenly your political trajectory from the time you contested and won the election into the Osun West Senatorial district bye-election after the demise of your elder brother and first Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Isiaka Adeleke. Your case can be likened to the Yoruba adage that says, “The head that will wear a crown may wear cap for 40 years but will eventually be crowned a king.” Your narrow loss of the 2018 governorship seat to your immediate predecessor in office, Gboyega Oyetola, has now been compensated for in 2022.
Charles Tiayon:
"I heartily rejoice with you, Governor Ademola Adeleke on your inauguration as the sixth Executive Governor of Osun State on Sunday, November 27, 2022. I have followed keenly your political trajectory from the time you contested and won the election into the Osun West Senatorial district bye-election after the demise of your elder brother and first Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Isiaka Adeleke. Your case can be likened to the Yoruba adage that says, “The head that will wear a crown may wear cap for 40 years but will eventually be crowned a king.” Your narrow loss of the 2018 governorship seat to your immediate predecessor in office, Gboyega Oyetola, has now been compensated for in 2022." #metaglossia mundus
It is the height of disrespect to the good citizens of this fair State that we are left to speculate as to the reason why over one hundred Nigerians / Cameroonians are still lurking in the shadows amongst us, even after their flight home has already departed. Oh, the blatant disregard and rudeness! Clearly, those in high places do not believe that they owe us a modicum of courtesy, consideration and forthrightness. Not that we would swallow their tale. These folks have had a very sketchy relationship with the truth. We believe them at our own peril. Perhaps this African proverb is appropriate, “Seeing is different than being told.” Hmmmmm! Again, we call on the administration to provide an explanation as to why so many of the Nigerians are still here, and under whose auspices. They owe it to us – we, the people who elected them as our servants. And the people to whom they will be looking for reelection to their high places. Actually, with an election just around the corner, we suspect that those in high places will be concocting a story, several stories, for our consumption. Let us beware that we do not swallow them, hook, line and sinker. And let us not forget this important African/Nigerian proverb: “Don’t think that there are no crocodiles, just because the water is calm.” #metaglossia mundus
An African adage says that the one who kills people with sword does not allow someone else go past his back with a sword. This adage correctly explains why Atiku is scared to let Ayu resign and allow Wike group produce PDP chairman. But do you know why he’s afraid? Some do, while some don’t. Now, for the benefit of those who don’t, I’ll try to give this little background. In the run on to the 2015 presidential election, Atiku, Amaechi, Sule Lamido, Saraki, Babaginda Aliyu, etc, became the aggrieved members of PDP when it became obvious that Jonathan was going to seek re-election; something the north vehemently resisted because they felt it was their turn.
Charles Tiayon:
"An African adage says that the one who kills people with sword does not allow someone else go past his back with a sword. This adage correctly explains why Atiku is scared to let Ayu resign and allow Wike group produce PDP chairman. But do you know why he’s afraid? Some do, while some don’t. Now, for the benefit of those who don’t, I’ll try to give this little background. In the run on to the 2015 presidential election, Atiku, Amaechi, Sule Lamido, Saraki, Babaginda Aliyu, etc, became the aggrieved members of PDP when it became obvious that Jonathan was going to seek re-election; something the north vehemently resisted because they felt it was their turn." #metaglossia mundus
The African Proverb that “he who digs a grave for his enemy might as well be digging one for himself” appropriately paraphrases President Cyril Ramaphosa’s predicament in the unfolding drama of Phala Phala. Ramaphosa stands accused of having acted unlawfully in handling the burglary that took place at his Phala Phala game farm in February 2020. Before the Phala Phala scandal surfaced, Ramaphosa had assiduously portrayed himself as a crusader against corruption. He was seen as a tireless advocate for accountability and transparency. In crafting this image of himself, Ramaphosa enlisted the services of groupings that he could fool all of the time. Discerning observers could not be swayed by Ramaphosa’s smoke and mirrors escapades. This week Ramaphosa joins the ranks of the damned.
Charles Tiayon:
"The African Proverb that “he who digs a grave for his enemy might as well be digging one for himself” appropriately paraphrases President Cyril Ramaphosa’s predicament in the unfolding drama of Phala Phala. Ramaphosa stands accused of having acted unlawfully in handling the burglary that took place at his Phala Phala game farm in February 2020. Before the Phala Phala scandal surfaced, Ramaphosa had assiduously portrayed himself as a crusader against corruption. He was seen as a tireless advocate for accountability and transparency. In crafting this image of himself, Ramaphosa enlisted the services of groupings that he could fool all of the time. Discerning observers could not be swayed by Ramaphosa’s smoke and mirrors escapades. This week Ramaphosa joins the ranks of the damned." #metaglossia mundus
“Cuando las arañas tejen juntas, pueden sujetar un león”. Con este proverbio africano, la presidenta de la Cámara de Comercio de Segovia María José Tapia apelaba a la necesidad de la unidad del tejido empresarial para afrontar quizá el momento más complicado de la economía mundial en décadas en el acto de entrega de los premios Sello Real de Paños 2021 con los que la institución cameral distingue precisamente a las empresas y colectivos que se han destacado por ese espíritu de resiliencia ante la adversidad tan necesario en los tiempos que corren.
Charles Tiayon:
"“Cuando las arañas tejen juntas, pueden sujetar un león”. Con este proverbio africano, la presidenta de la Cámara de Comercio de Segovia María José Tapia apelaba a la necesidad de la unidad del tejido empresarial para afrontar quizá el momento más complicado de la economía mundial en décadas en el acto de entrega de los premios Sello Real de Paños 2021 con los que la institución cameral distingue precisamente a las empresas y colectivos que se han destacado por ese espíritu de resiliencia ante la adversidad tan necesario en los tiempos que corren." #metaglossia mundus
Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng writes to the UCT community to recognise and reflect on the contribution of this year’s retirees. Although you will be retiring officially, retirement should not be the end of the road. It should be the beginning of the open highway. We still need your expertise and skills, and I encourage you to continue interacting with your colleagues at UCT. There is an African proverb that says ‘Knowledge is a garden. If it isn’t cultivated, you can’t harvest it’. So, colleagues, as you enter life after UCT, I wish you a garden rich with knowledge of the things you love most. On behalf of the UCT community, I thank you for your commitment and devotion to this esteemed university. We wish you all the joy and happiness in your retirement years.
Charles Tiayon:
"Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng writes to the UCT community to recognise and reflect on the contribution of this year’s retirees. Although you will be retiring officially, retirement should not be the end of the road. It should be the beginning of the open highway. We still need your expertise and skills, and I encourage you to continue interacting with your colleagues at UCT. There is an African proverb that says ‘Knowledge is a garden. If it isn’t cultivated, you can’t harvest it’. So, colleagues, as you enter life after UCT, I wish you a garden rich with knowledge of the things you love most. On behalf of the UCT community, I thank you for your commitment and devotion to this esteemed university. We wish you all the joy and happiness in your retirement years." #metaglossia mundus
There is no question about the fact that history is just repeating itself and unfortunately, no one is spared of the grievous consequences of poor leadership in Nigeria today. According to an African proverb, “when it rains, it does not fall on one man’s roof alone”. Obviously, the president cannot offer what he does not have. He has clearly put Nigeria in a state of incertitude; no one is safe in any part of the country anymore, our education system is in a shambles, the economy is in complete and utter ruin and the future looks so cloudy. So why would anyone come home at a point Nigeria is on the edge of a precipice and, for what exactly?
https://tribuneonlineng.com/sir-dr-felix-kehinde-from-ondo-scrubland-to-buckingham-palace/
Charles Tiayon:
"There is no question about the fact that history is just repeating itself and unfortunately, no one is spared of the grievous consequences of poor leadership in Nigeria today. According to an African proverb, “when it rains, it does not fall on one man’s roof alone”. Obviously, the president cannot offer what he does not have. He has clearly put Nigeria in a state of incertitude; no one is safe in any part of the country anymore, our education system is in a shambles, the economy is in complete and utter ruin and the future looks so cloudy. So why would anyone come home at a point Nigeria is on the edge of a precipice and, for what exactly?"
https://tribuneonlineng.com/sir-dr-felix-kehinde-from-ondo-scrubland-to-buckingham-palace/ #metaglossia mundus
At almost every turn, I can’t help but be awed by the spectrum of colours in Senegal. I feel like I’ve left Dorothy’s greyscale Kansas for full-colour Oz. Roads are rust-red. Streetside stalls are stacked with green watermelons the size of beach balls. Traditional boubou clothing comes in all the colours of the rainbow. Even the petrol stations are painted purple and green. Tui’s holidays to Senegal are now sold out until mid-January. However, for anyone in two minds about visiting this country rather than a winter sun staple, I’ll quote an Senegalese Wolof proverb. It goes “Demmal mo guenne do demma” – “Go is better than don’t go. Tui offers seven nights’ all-inclusive at Riu Baobab from £963pp with flights from Gatwick and transfers on 16 January 2023.” #metaglossia mundus
Charles Tiayon:
At almost every turn, I can’t help but be awed by the spectrum of colours in Senegal. I feel like I’ve left Dorothy’s greyscale Kansas for full-colour Oz. Roads are rust-red. Streetside stalls are stacked with green watermelons the size of beach balls. Traditional boubou clothing comes in all the colours of the rainbow. Even the petrol stations are painted purple and green. Tui’s holidays to Senegal are now sold out until mid-January. However, for anyone in two minds about visiting this country rather than a winter sun staple, I’ll quote an Senegalese Wolof proverb. It goes “Demmal mo guenne do demma” – “Go is better than don’t go. Tui offers seven nights’ all-inclusive at Riu Baobab from £963pp with flights from Gatwick and transfers on 16 January 2023.” #metaglossia mundus
One foot is not enough to walk with —Egyptian proverb ON my way back to Abuja from an inspiring outing to Lagos involving a lecture by Professor Akin Oshuntokun on Nationalism and Nation Building in Nigerian History organised by the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, I noticed that I had missed a call from Sam Amuka (Uncle Sam), proprietor of the Vanguard Newspapers. I called him back. “Doctor,” he began,”you are resuming. From next week.” He was referring to an informal understanding we had when I asked to be relieved from my weekly column for the second time. Such has been our relationship that I could say no, but would not; and I would not give him a flimsy excuse, because he deserved better.
Charles Tiayon:
One foot is not enough to walk with —Egyptian proverb ON my way back to Abuja from an inspiring outing to Lagos involving a lecture by Professor Akin Oshuntokun on Nationalism and Nation Building in Nigerian History organised by the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, I noticed that I had missed a call from Sam Amuka (Uncle Sam), proprietor of the Vanguard Newspapers. I called him back. “Doctor,” he began,”you are resuming. From next week.” He was referring to an informal understanding we had when I asked to be relieved from my weekly column for the second time. Such has been our relationship that I could say no, but would not; and I would not give him a flimsy excuse, because he deserved better. #metaglossia mundus
In the windy piece, the one-time governor of Nigeria’s Central Bank riled and raved. It read like fury contained in an earthenware pot unmindful of the dire consequences of the pot coming apart. It is as reckless as it is wanton. Owing to the nature of the piece which has continued to receive mixed reviews, mostly with angst, it is fitting to use an Igbo proverb to illustrate the depth of the anguish. The Igbo known for their wisecracks have a proverb for almost every condition and situation. After all, the illustrious world-acclaimed writer and novelist, an Igbo himself, the late Prof. Chinua Achebe, opined that proverbs are “the salt with which words are eaten.” It is in this wise that “O bulu na i taa m aru n’ike, ma i zeghi nshi; mu taa gi aru n’isi, agaghi m’ezere uvulu,” is apt. The literal translation of the proverb; “If you bite me on the butt, despite the danger of sinking your teeth into faecal matter, then if I bite you on the head, I will disregard the danger of sinking my teeth into cerebral matter.” With the arrogant mien of accepting whatever the outcome of his letter or piece, then it is only natural that equal deterrence is appropriate. It has always been an open secret that the Anambra state governor has an overwhelming self of sense, but to imagine that he would descend so low in such a short period, beggars belief.
Charles Tiayon:
"In the windy piece, the one-time governor of Nigeria’s Central Bank riled and raved. It read like fury contained in an earthenware pot unmindful of the dire consequences of the pot coming apart. It is as reckless as it is wanton. Owing to the nature of the piece which has continued to receive mixed reviews, mostly with angst, it is fitting to use an Igbo proverb to illustrate the depth of the anguish. The Igbo known for their wisecracks have a proverb for almost every condition and situation. After all, the illustrious world-acclaimed writer and novelist, an Igbo himself, the late Prof. Chinua Achebe, opined that proverbs are “the salt with which words are eaten.” It is in this wise that “O bulu na i taa m aru n’ike, ma i zeghi nshi; mu taa gi aru n’isi, agaghi m’ezere uvulu,” is apt. The literal translation of the proverb; “If you bite me on the butt, despite the danger of sinking your teeth into faecal matter, then if I bite you on the head, I will disregard the danger of sinking my teeth into cerebral matter.” With the arrogant mien of accepting whatever the outcome of his letter or piece, then it is only natural that equal deterrence is appropriate. It has always been an open secret that the Anambra state governor has an overwhelming self of sense, but to imagine that he would descend so low in such a short period, beggars belief." #metaglossia mundus
November 13 was World Kindness Day (aka WKD). I didn’t even know there was anything like a World Kindness Day but boy, does the world need one every day of the week. There can never be kindness overload in a world where apathy has become a virtue. There must be an Igbo proverb that says the difference between humans and animals is that the former have the ability to empathise. If our social media behaviour is anything to go by, then we are becoming less human. With recent studies asserting that some animals are able to empathise in certain conditions, I can’t even say that we are becoming more like animals sef. Empathy is dead and bullying is on the rise (naturally). The late Maya Angelou once said on Oprah that we ought to be rainbows in other people’s clouds, “The thing to do, it seems to me, is to prepare yourself so you can be a rainbow in somebody else’s cloud. Somebody who may not look like you. May not call God the same name you call God — if they call God at all…I may not dance your dances or speak your language. But be a blessing to somebody. That’s what I think.” And that’s what I think too. The Church says Amen?
The EPRDF leaders massacred, tortured, disabled, jailed, displaced and sterilized hundreds of thousands of Amaras guided by the deddeb manifesto of establishing several republics in Ethiopia at the graves of Amaras. This kind of manifesto is the work of Satan: No human being designs and practices annihilating one ethnic group to establish the republic of another ethnic group. As the Ethiopian proverb goes, thieves fight not when they steal but when they started sharing what they have stolen. The EPRDF rulers robbed the wealth and the lives of Ethiopians for 27 years. The original plan of building republics at the graves of Amaras was expanded and hundreds were massacred in Ambo, Wolega, Jimma, Gambella, Arisi, Bale, Harergae, Sidamo, Afar and other regions as the people of these region protested against the barbaric regimen of EPRDF. In fact, the genocide of Amaras has intensified since the emergence of the second EPRDF.
Charles Tiayon:
"The EPRDF leaders massacred, tortured, disabled, jailed, displaced and sterilized hundreds of thousands of Amaras guided by the deddeb manifesto of establishing several republics in Ethiopia at the graves of Amaras. This kind of manifesto is the work of Satan: No human being designs and practices annihilating one ethnic group to establish the republic of another ethnic group. As the Ethiopian proverb goes, thieves fight not when they steal but when they started sharing what they have stolen. The EPRDF rulers robbed the wealth and the lives of Ethiopians for 27 years. The original plan of building republics at the graves of Amaras was expanded and hundreds were massacred in Ambo, Wolega, Jimma, Gambella, Arisi, Bale, Harergae, Sidamo, Afar and other regions as the people of these region protested against the barbaric regimen of EPRDF. In fact, the genocide of Amaras has intensified since the emergence of the second EPRDF. " #metaglossia mundus
A Yoruba adage teaches that the story of anyone be not told until it has first been narrated by that person. Aa ki saju elede pe ede goes this wise saying of the wise ones of long, long ago. Indeed, who knows another person well enough to know all of his or her story? That is why it is not just unfair, but also immature, and, perhaps, spiritually criminal to judge another person. I mentioned the old-age Yoruba saying in respect of President Muhammadu Buhari who, in London last week, revealed to Nigerians that he was in hospital over there for eye, ear, and teeth problems he had been experiencing since 1978. That was 44 years ago, the year I graduated from youth service in Calabar, Cross River State. .... The videos and clips of the launch of this biggest internet company on earth were late in coming, as was the live webinar. I was already 24 hours late on my deadline to submit this column to the Editor. So, I decided to write, instead, on President Buhari’s health. Unknown to me, I wrote on all 40 pages of a whole school exercise book on which I had previously written another column. I went to bed about 3.30 am on Monday morning only to be woken up at about 6.am and be told by the person who was to type the manuscript that everything I wrote was mangled up with some other stuff. What could I do? Ti ise ko ba peni, a ki i p’ese . (If work doesn’t delay us, we don’t delay work)!. Proverbs of our forebears always show us the right way. So, I went back to my writing desk and knocked out this column in about four hours later. With this kind of experience, I can only be sympathetic to President Buhari and to any other challenged person and not malign them. The Americans taught us to be civilised in the landslide election of wheelchair-bound Roosevelt as their president. There is a lesson also from the Jews. Moshe Danyan lost one eye in the battle field during the Second World War, while he was defending his people against Germany.
Charles Tiayon:
"A Yoruba adage teaches that the story of anyone be not told until it has first been narrated by that person. Aa ki saju elede pe ede goes this wise saying of the wise ones of long, long ago. Indeed, who knows another person well enough to know all of his or her story? That is why it is not just unfair, but also immature, and, perhaps, spiritually criminal to judge another person. I mentioned the old-age Yoruba saying in respect of President Muhammadu Buhari who, in London last week, revealed to Nigerians that he was in hospital over there for eye, ear, and teeth problems he had been experiencing since 1978. That was 44 years ago, the year I graduated from youth service in Calabar, Cross River State. .... The videos and clips of the launch of this biggest internet company on earth were late in coming, as was the live webinar. I was already 24 hours late on my deadline to submit this column to the Editor. So, I decided to write, instead, on President Buhari’s health. Unknown to me, I wrote on all 40 pages of a whole school exercise book on which I had previously written another column. I went to bed about 3.30 am on Monday morning only to be woken up at about 6.am and be told by the person who was to type the manuscript that everything I wrote was mangled up with some other stuff. What could I do? Ti ise ko ba peni, a ki i p’ese . (If work doesn’t delay us, we don’t delay work)!. Proverbs of our forebears always show us the right way. So, I went back to my writing desk and knocked out this column in about four hours later. With this kind of experience, I can only be sympathetic to President Buhari and to any other challenged person and not malign them. The Americans taught us to be civilised in the landslide election of wheelchair-bound Roosevelt as their president. There is a lesson also from the Jews. Moshe Danyan lost one eye in the battle field during the Second World War, while he was defending his people against Germany...." #metaglossia mundus
The function room at The Capital Zimbali overflowed with glamorously dressed men and women for The iLembe Chamber’s gala dinner, presented by Nedbank, last week. The evening’s theme was built around the African proverb “a tree’s beauty lies in its branches, but its strength lies in its roots,” celebrating local businesses as the roots of communities – the roots for growth, innovation, talent, diversity and pride. Guest speaker, Metair Investments Limited CEO Riaz Haffejee, emphasised that the evening’s theme befit the resilient, agile, and responsive nature of KZN-based businesses to the many blows suffered over the last three years.
Charles Tiayon:
"The function room at The Capital Zimbali overflowed with glamorously dressed men and women for The iLembe Chamber’s gala dinner, presented by Nedbank, last week. The evening’s theme was built around the African proverb “a tree’s beauty lies in its branches, but its strength lies in its roots,” celebrating local businesses as the roots of communities – the roots for growth, innovation, talent, diversity and pride. Guest speaker, Metair Investments Limited CEO Riaz Haffejee, emphasised that the evening’s theme befit the resilient, agile, and responsive nature of KZN-based businesses to the many blows suffered over the last three years." #metaglossia mundus
An international cast of singers, dancers and performers, most from South Africa, and New York-based chamber orchestra The Knights, joined by musicians from Italy, South Africa and Guinea, will be part of the Miami performance. The opera Named after the Ghanaian proverb “the head and the load are the problems of the neck”, it tells the forgotten story of the millions of African porters who served the British, French and German forces during the First World War. "The Head & The Load" featured composer Philip Miller and principal choreographer and dancer Gregory Maqoma. The Head & The Loadit is considered Kentridge's most ambitious project to date and a perfect example of his particular combination of music, dance, film projections, mechanized sculptures and shadow plays for theater. William Kentridge was born in Johannesburg in 1955. He is an internationally acclaimed artist who became known outside his country in the late 1990s with various international exhibitions.
Charles Tiayon:
"An international cast of singers, dancers and performers, most from South Africa, and New York-based chamber orchestra The Knights, joined by musicians from Italy, South Africa and Guinea, will be part of the Miami performance. The opera Named after the Ghanaian proverb “the head and the load are the problems of the neck”, it tells the forgotten story of the millions of African porters who served the British, French and German forces during the First World War. "The Head & The Load" featured composer Philip Miller and principal choreographer and dancer Gregory Maqoma. The Head & The Loadit is considered Kentridge's most ambitious project to date and a perfect example of his particular combination of music, dance, film projections, mechanized sculptures and shadow plays for theater. William Kentridge was born in Johannesburg in 1955. He is an internationally acclaimed artist who became known outside his country in the late 1990s with various international exhibitions." #metaglossia mundus
What else can adequately describe the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila’s compassionate character than the Yoruba proverb Ìwà kì í fi oníwà sílẹ̀? It simply means that we are inextricably linked to our personalities. When a man has a heart of love, his whole life is dedicated to service to humanity. Just a few weeks ago, Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila took it upon himself to initiate the mediation process between the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and the Federal Government, aimed at bringing the 8-month-old strike action to a halt.
Charles Tiayon:
What else can adequately describe the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila’s compassionate character than the Yoruba proverb Ìwà kì í fi oníwà sílẹ̀? It simply means that we are inextricably linked to our personalities. When a man has a heart of love, his whole life is dedicated to service to humanity. Just a few weeks ago, Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila took it upon himself to initiate the mediation process between the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and the Federal Government, aimed at bringing the 8-month-old strike action to a halt.
"They are typically administered during infancy, so a child cannot choose whether or not to receive them. The child grows up to meet it head-on.
As it identifies the family or the person’s origin, it is a traditional sign of honour and a clear indication that the child is not a bastard. Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, former President of Nigeria, proudly displays his Owu tribal marks, which he once described as his “natural identity card.” Facial marks were also used for cosmetic purposes. Tita riro lan ko Ila, to ba jina adi oge is a Yoruba proverb: “The incisions are very painful, but when they heal, the marks become a beautiful thing to admire.” Culture is defined as “a way of life of a people.” Their customs, laws, traditions, norms, language, occupation, and cuisine are all included."
Charles Tiayon:
"They are typically administered during infancy, so a child cannot choose whether or not to receive them. The child grows up to meet it head-on.
As it identifies the family or the person’s origin, it is a traditional sign of honour and a clear indication that the child is not a bastard. Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, former President of Nigeria, proudly displays his Owu tribal marks, which he once described as his “natural identity card.” Facial marks were also used for cosmetic purposes. Tita riro lan ko Ila, to ba jina adi oge is a Yoruba proverb: “The incisions are very painful, but when they heal, the marks become a beautiful thing to admire.” Culture is defined as “a way of life of a people.” Their customs, laws, traditions, norms, language, occupation, and cuisine are all included." #metaglossia mundus
In truth, law enforcement agencies, including the Ghanaian government and the police, should be in charge of preventing political crime. Unfortunately, the corruption within all of the aforementioned organizations is so pervasive that they actively oppose efforts to curb crime and corruption in Ghana. Anas' continued threat to this particular government is one of the reasons behind this.
According to a Ghanaian proverb, "It's not because everyone will die that we shouldn't sleep," Anas should look for another way to expose those responsible for the illicit mining in the nation. He shouldn't feel threatened because the world is behind him and is thus keeping track of all political developments in Ghana. More importantly, ambassadors who are in Ghana on behalf of their nations are quietly keeping an eye on it as well.
Akufo Addo, on the other hand, chose to become president of Ghana to embarrass himself in addition to corruption and crime. As a result, he will leave office as the worst president in the country's political history as well as the most disliked leader in Ghana.
Charles Tiayon:
"In truth, law enforcement agencies, including the Ghanaian government and the police, should be in charge of preventing political crime. Unfortunately, the corruption within all of the aforementioned organizations is so pervasive that they actively oppose efforts to curb crime and corruption in Ghana. Anas' continued threat to this particular government is one of the reasons behind this. According to a Ghanaian proverb, "It's not because everyone will die that we shouldn't sleep," Anas should look for another way to expose those responsible for the illicit mining in the nation. He shouldn't feel threatened because the world is behind him and is thus keeping track of all political developments in Ghana. More importantly, ambassadors who are in Ghana on behalf of their nations are quietly keeping an eye on it as well. Akufo Addo, on the other hand, chose to become president of Ghana to embarrass himself in addition to corruption and crime. As a result, he will leave office as the worst president in the country's political history as well as the most disliked leader in Ghana." #metaglossia mundus
There’s an African proverb that says: “If you wish to move mountains tomorrow, you must start by lifting stones today.” Small actions, at scale, can make a big difference, says Pamela Coke-Hamilton, executive director, International Trade Centre (ITC). This proverb holds true as we collectively confront what the United Nations Secretary-General has called “the defining issue of our time”: climate change. Here is a staggering statistic: Half of the world population is “highly vulnerable” to the effects of climate change, with people in those regions 15 times more likely to die due to floods, droughts and storms compared to those in less vulnerable regions. Many of the most vulnerable countries, which did the least to get us in this situation, are hardest hit by its effects. African countries, for example, account for 3% of global emissions, yet the continent is home to at least half of the most vulnerable countries. And they don’t have the time or resources to act. For developing countries, it’s been one wave after another: First Covid-19, then the conflict in Ukraine and cost-of-living increases, on top of growing climate-related threats. But here’s the good news: It’s not too late to make a change. And the change starts small. Engaging the “silent majority” If we are to take on this existential crisis, we as the global community have to do something we haven’t yet done: Fully engage the “silent majority”, or small businesses, in particular those in developing countries, so they can make the low-carbon transition. Small firms make up 90% of companies and half of jobs worldwide. Of the big corporations that produce most of the goods we use every day – including food, electronics and apparel –more than 80% of their emissions come from their supply chains, and the biggest bulk of that comes from small businesses. So small businesses have a major role to play in the low-carbon transition, both as contributors and beneficiaries. Their collective action in adapting to and mitigating climate change is key to curbing global temperature rise to 1.5°C – and if that target is slipping out of reach, as close to it as possible – as countries agreed to do in the Paris Agreement. Right now, we are not on course to meet that target. Countries’ current plans to lower emissions, also known as nationally determined contributions (NDCs), would lead to an 11% increase in emissions by 2030. Drastic changes in behaviour are required, and small businesses in developing countries are aware and willing to make a change. The International Trade Centre (ITC) found that nearly 70% of small firms in sub-Saharan Africa see environmental risks as significant for business. The problem is, less than 40% can do something about it, versus 60% of large firms. Simply put, small businesses in developing countries lack the skills, technology and finance to make the transition. For those who can skill up and scale up, the door would open to lucrative business opportunities. Emerging due diligence and deforestation requirements in the European Union, for example, are putting the pressure on big corporations to source from “green” suppliers who can provide evidence of reducing emissions. There is a first-mover advantage for those who act now. Mitigating, adapting, financing – the greatest of these? Getting on track to meet the 1.5°C target hinges on making progress in three areas – mitigation, adaptation, financing – the last of which makes the first two possible. On financing, African countries need $277 billion per year between 2020-2030 to implement their NDCs. That requires scaling up annual mitigation finance by 13 times, and annual adaptation finance by 6 times. So the yearly financing required by Africa alone is nearly three times the $100bn yearly commitment of developed countries to support all developing countries – of which only seven countries mobilised their fair share in 2020. On top of this financing required by developing countries for mitigation and adaptation, an additional $400 billion a year is needed to cover loss and damage. Those are a lot of numbers. All those figures can be summarized in this sentence: The asks may sound high, but the costs of not acting are even higher. The nature of financing also matters. More needs to come through as grants or investments, especially at the country level. In 2019-2020, the bulk of climate financing was raised as debt. Developing countries already reeling from multiple crises will not be able to get their footing by taking on more debt. Whatever the financing gap at the country level, the cracks are magnified at the small business level. What they need most are short-term, low-risk loans, according to ITC surveys of thousands of firms. Since 2019, ITC has facilitated more than $68m in financing and investment for small businesses in more than 60 countries. Of that amount, nearly three-quarters – $50m – was purely green financing. The focus is on making financing not only available, but accessible. To secure funding for small firms, some funds from donor and development finance institutions are used to de-risk guarantees for financing providers. Guarantors and financing providers agree to accept slightly lower returns in exchange for higher volumes of lending. Diversification of default risk across hundreds of small businesses – trained by ITC – helps make investing in them more attractive. ITC as the joint agency of the United Nations and World Trade Organization, focusing on supporting small businesses to export, works closely with financing providers, guarantors, business development experts, governments and small businesses to equip small firms with the skills, tech and access to financing they need to compete in international markets – including in emerging green markets. For example, ITC is working with G7 country organisations to help small businesses to comply with green corridor (sustainable transport routes) and digital environmental, social and governance (ESG) passport requirements of the European Union, which will come into force in 2023. Small businesses looking for new opportunities in the European market will have to adapt by switching to greener packaging or using more environmentally friendly agricultural practices, among other actions. Ensuring a just transition Equipping small businesses in developing countries to make the low-carbon transition is key, to ensure no one gets left behind. The green transition must be a just transition. So as countries urgently work to mitigate and adapt to climate change, in line with their NDCs (as well as updating their NDCs to keep the 1.5°C goal in view), it cannot come at the cost of Africa’s development. The reality is, as demand for fossil fuels declines with the move to renewable energy sources, Africa risks being left with stranded carbon assets. More than 185 countries agreed in Paris to leave two-thirds of fossil fuels in the ground. The problem is that many African countries are dependent on natural resources, including fossil fuels and minerals. Africa needs a long-term strategy on the future of fossil fuels and the shift to greener energy sources. It should cover ways that even small businesses can pivot to renewable or resource-efficient energy options. Research shows that 90% of people live in places where using renewable energy would be cheaper than using fossil fuels. Solar power may even become “the cheapest source of electricity in history”. A key strategy to mitigate the effects of climate change, without slowing the pace of Africa’s development, is to invest in regional trade – as part of the African Continental Free Trade Area – and adding value to goods, within the continent. This move would boost intra-African trade while reducing transport-related emissions. Transport as a sector is one of the world’s biggest emitters, equal to what the entire continent of Africa emits. Making decisions based on data Ideas are easy, adaptation is harder. Changes in policy, technology and markets require sound decision-making, to make it easier for businesses to adapt. In support of these efforts, ITC launched two online tools at COP27: a data-backed tool to help policymakers and investors make decisions based on a comprehensive analysis of the risks and opportunities along agricultural value chains, and the Climate Smart Network to connect buyers with green suppliers in developing countries. ITC also launched a report outlining a ten-step plan to building the climate resilience of small businesses across value chains. With COP27 now at a close, what is clear is that none of us can tackle the greatest challenge of our time alone. But working together – government, business, institutions and development partners – we can empower the voiceless, make visible the silent, and work towards a just transition that leaves no one behind.
Charles Tiayon:
" There’s an African proverb that says: “If you wish to move mountains tomorrow, you must start by lifting stones today.” Small actions, at scale, can make a big difference, says Pamela Coke-Hamilton, executive director, International Trade Centre (ITC). This proverb holds true as we collectively confront what the United Nations Secretary-General has called “the defining issue of our time”: climate change. Here is a staggering statistic: Half of the world population is “highly vulnerable” to the effects of climate change, with people in those regions 15 times more likely to die due to floods, droughts and storms compared to those in less vulnerable regions. Many of the most vulnerable countries, which did the least to get us in this situation, are hardest hit by its effects. African countries, for example, account for 3% of global emissions, yet the continent is home to at least half of the most vulnerable countries. And they don’t have the time or resources to act." #metaglossia mundus
Los más de 1000 profesionales que acudieron a la cita más importante con la ciberseguridad en España, se reunieron en torno a cuatro tracks, donde expertos de primer nivel compartieron las claves para afrontar los nuevos escenarios. En el Track 1, Cybersecurity Strategy, liderado por Iván Sánchez, miembro de ISMS Forum, abrió con un mensaje importante: “La seguridad es de todos y para todos” y por ello recurrió a un proverbio africano: ‘si quieres llegar rápido, ve solo; si quieres llegar lejos, hazlo acompañado’, destacando la importancia del trabajo en equipo para alcanzar los objetivos en ciberseguridad: ‘el número de estrategias que adoptemos es indiferente, lo más importante es que se trate de estrategias ágiles’.
Charles Tiayon:
"Los más de 1000 profesionales que acudieron a la cita más importante con la ciberseguridad en España, se reunieron en torno a cuatro tracks, donde expertos de primer nivel compartieron las claves para afrontar los nuevos escenarios. En el Track 1, Cybersecurity Strategy, liderado por Iván Sánchez, miembro de ISMS Forum, abrió con un mensaje importante: “La seguridad es de todos y para todos” y por ello recurrió a un proverbio africano: ‘si quieres llegar rápido, ve solo; si quieres llegar lejos, hazlo acompañado’, destacando la importancia del trabajo en equipo para alcanzar los objetivos en ciberseguridad: ‘el número de estrategias que adoptemos es indiferente, lo más importante es que se trate de estrategias ágiles’. " #metaglossia mundus
Por ser esa enfermedad propia del que hambre tienen los más vulnerables, que con pan sueña. Refrán. De que “El hambre viene sola, pero no se va sola.” Refrán Los tambores de guerra son tambores de hambre. Proverbio Africano “El hambre espía en la casa de los pobres, pero si la habitan”. En este país de la gracia torera se permite comprarse un traje negro sin distinguir entre verse negro para comprarse uno, sin tener la enorme diferencia existente entre que no lo es lo mismo que verse negro para lograr una chaqueta y pantalón de cualquier color. Algo así como una mal copia de Valle Inclán con intenciones distintas.” La deformación sistemática de la realidad en la base de los esperpentos parece Haber un doble código: el de aparente burla y caricatura de la realidad y el de La carga …”
Charles Tiayon:
"Por ser esa enfermedad propia del que hambre tienen los más vulnerables, que con pan sueña. Refrán. De que “El hambre viene sola, pero no se va sola.” Refrán Los tambores de guerra son tambores de hambre. Proverbio Africano “El hambre espía en la casa de los pobres, pero si la habitan”. En este país de la gracia torera se permite comprarse un traje negro sin distinguir entre verse negro para comprarse uno, sin tener la enorme diferencia existente entre que no lo es lo mismo que verse negro para lograr una chaqueta y pantalón de cualquier color. Algo así como una mal copia de Valle Inclán con intenciones distintas.” La deformación sistemática de la realidad en la base de los esperpentos parece Haber un doble código: el de aparente burla y caricatura de la realidad y el de La carga …”" #metaglossia mundus
"A Yoruba adage says A sheep that befriends a dog will eat faeces. Make friends that will endear you more to Christ, challenge you to pursue your dreams and fulfil them. Have friends that will impact your life positively and not those who will drag you down. The best way to choose a friend is to see Jesus in that fellow. Is the fellow born again? Does he/ she exhibit the fruit of the Spirit according to Galatians 5:22-23? Is he or she serious with his/her academics? Is he/she committed in the fellowship or Church? These are the things you should watch out for. However, don’t forget that you must also have these attributes." #metaglossia mundus
Charles Tiayon:
"A Yoruba adage says A sheep that befriends a dog will eat faeces. Make friends that will endear you more to Christ, challenge you to pursue your dreams and fulfil them. Have friends that will impact your life positively and not those who will drag you down. The best way to choose a friend is to see Jesus in that fellow. Is the fellow born again? Does he/ she exhibit the fruit of the Spirit according to Galatians 5:22-23? Is he or she serious with his/her academics? Is he/she committed in the fellowship or Church? These are the things you should watch out for. However, don’t forget that you must also have these attributes." #metaglossia mundus
Un sentiment d’urgence sans précédent anime aujourd’hui les pays africains pour passer à l’action, s’adapter et développer leur résilience. Chaque année, leurs populations sont confrontées à des inondations plus nombreuses, des températures élevées, l’érosion côtière, la dégradation des terres, et d’autres chocs climatiques. En Afrique de l’Ouest et du Centre les récentes inondations ont affecté des millions de personnes et forcé des dizaines de milliers à se déplacer loin de chez elles et de leurs sources de revenu. Evoquer le changement climatique est une chose, mais comme le dit un proverbe africain, « voir et entendre dire, sont deux choses différentes ». Pourtant, l’Afrique émet moins de 4 % des gaz à effet de serre à l’échelle mondiale et la région est la principale source d’absorption de carbone grâce au bassin du Congo. La crise climatique vient remettre en cause des gains de développement durement acquis et renforcer les cycles de pauvreté, de fragilité, et de vulnérabilité. Au terme des récentes Assemblées annuelles de la Banque mondiale et du Fonds monétaire international à Washington, il ressortait clairement que le changement climatique est au cœur des préoccupations des dirigeants africains.
Charles Tiayon:
"Un sentiment d’urgence sans précédent anime aujourd’hui les pays africains pour passer à l’action, s’adapter et développer leur résilience. Chaque année, leurs populations sont confrontées à des inondations plus nombreuses, des températures élevées, l’érosion côtière, la dégradation des terres, et d’autres chocs climatiques. En Afrique de l’Ouest et du Centre les récentes inondations ont affecté des millions de personnes et forcé des dizaines de milliers à se déplacer loin de chez elles et de leurs sources de revenu. Evoquer le changement climatique est une chose, mais comme le dit un proverbe africain, « voir et entendre dire, sont deux choses différentes ». Pourtant, l’Afrique émet moins de 4 % des gaz à effet de serre à l’échelle mondiale et la région est la principale source d’absorption de carbone grâce au bassin du Congo. La crise climatique vient remettre en cause des gains de développement durement acquis et renforcer les cycles de pauvreté, de fragilité, et de vulnérabilité. Au terme des récentes Assemblées annuelles de la Banque mondiale et du Fonds monétaire international à Washington, il ressortait clairement que le changement climatique est au cœur des préoccupations des dirigeants africains." #metaglossia mundus
En Afrique dit-on souvent, quand un vieillard meurt, c’est une bibliothèque qui brûle. Ce célèbre dicton de l’honorable penseur africain, Amadou Ampathé Bâ recadre localement la parole très prisée des anciens au sein de la Mondialisation.Senegal7.com vous ouvre les portes d’une Afrique qui veut voler au secours d’une mondialisation méconnaissable. Chaque semaine, vous aurez droit à un conte, devinette ou un proverbe qui traite de la vie de tous les jours. Ce dicton du célèbre penseur, Amadou Ampathé Bâ procède d’une interpellation culturelle proprement africaine prompte à voler au secours d’une globalisation méconnaissable et sans visage. En effet la soustraction de toutes les spécificités nationales au profit d’une seule et unique façon de voir et d’agir planétaire s’appelle la mondialisation. Pour ce faire, l’Afrique aura beaucoup à apporter aux autres peuples du monde qui snobent scrupuleusement la place des anciens au niveau de leurs hiérarchies sociales. Le défi est grandiose pour elle mais pas impossible à réaliser au sein de la sphère planétaire. La parole des anciens déclinée en termes de contes, légendes, devinettes, proverbes et maximes retrouvent-elle aujourd’hui ses lettres de noblesse dans cet univers planétaire obnubilé par la prestation effrénée de biens et services à usage commercial ?
Charles Tiayon:
"En Afrique dit-on souvent, quand un vieillard meurt, c’est une bibliothèque qui brûle. Ce célèbre dicton de l’honorable penseur africain, Amadou Ampathé Bâ recadre localement la parole très prisée des anciens au sein de la Mondialisation.Senegal7.com vous ouvre les portes d’une Afrique qui veut voler au secours d’une mondialisation méconnaissable. Chaque semaine, vous aurez droit à un conte, devinette ou un proverbe qui traite de la vie de tous les jours. Ce dicton du célèbre penseur, Amadou Ampathé Bâ procède d’une interpellation culturelle proprement africaine prompte à voler au secours d’une globalisation méconnaissable et sans visage. En effet la soustraction de toutes les spécificités nationales au profit d’une seule et unique façon de voir et d’agir planétaire s’appelle la mondialisation. Pour ce faire, l’Afrique aura beaucoup à apporter aux autres peuples du monde qui snobent scrupuleusement la place des anciens au niveau de leurs hiérarchies sociales. Le défi est grandiose pour elle mais pas impossible à réaliser au sein de la sphère planétaire. La parole des anciens déclinée en termes de contes, légendes, devinettes, proverbes et maximes retrouvent-elle aujourd’hui ses lettres de noblesse dans cet univers planétaire obnubilé par la prestation effrénée de biens et services à usage commercial ?" #metaglossia mundus
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Scoop it Creator
Charles Tiayon
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