KYRGYZSTAN

The grand, rugged Kyrgyz Republic is an adventurer’s dream! Over eighty per cent mountainous, it boasts some of the highest altitudes and the second largest mountain lake in the world. On one border lies China and the eastern realms of the Silk Road. On the other sides it is surrounded by its sister countries of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. 80 different nationalities live here and rest assured that you will never find a warmer welcome; be it in a yurt in the valleys or in a home in the capital of Bishkek.

Kyrgyzstan Customs and Traditions

The Kyrgyz are descended from ancient Turkic tribes, and have been nomadic cattle breeders for centuries and a large part of the population remains semi-nomadic, with sheep often outnumbering the population!

As in Kazakhstan, the culture of the horse is omnipresent. Competitions like Ulak Tartysh, a team game resembling a cross between polo and rugby and Jumby Atmai, the object of which is to break the thread holding a large bar of metal by shooting at it at a gallop reflect the importance of riding skills and games on horseback.

Kyrgyzstan Weddings

In Kyrgyzstan the ancient practice of "bride kidnapping" is now prohibited by law. Of course, now some of these abductions are staged, either for romantic reasons or by couples who would otherwise face family opposition!

The majority of Kyrgyz weddings, how young take place through matchmaking arrangements between the parents of the bride and groom. And, nowadays, many young young people - especially in the cities - prefer to get to know each other first by "going out" together and thus have a more active role in the decision of who they will marry.

Kyrgyzstan Festivals

Colorful, eventful and full of fun, festivals are held throughout the year. These reflect the culture and enthusiasm of the people of Kyrgyzstan. The new year Nouruz is celebrated on the vernal equinox in early spring. Bright new clothing is prepared, a multigrain porridge sumolok is served and wishes for peace, prosperity and health are exchanged.

Along with the national Horse and Game Festival in July, there is also the Birds of Prey Festival celebrating golden eagles and falcons. Falconry has been a Kyrgyz tradition since ancient times and these birds of prey are some of the best hunters.

At the Kyrgyz Kochi Festival - Cuisine and Folklore Festival, which takes place in the Djety-Oguz Gorge, a large variety of traditional dishes from different countries are presented. It is a wonderful opportunity not only to taste the many succulent dishes, but to watch as they are prepared. The festival also includes an exhibition of national crafts and felt making, as well as competitions among local folk groups in singing and dancing.

Kyrgyzstan Cuisine

Over the centuries, people from many regions have passed through or settled in Kyrgyzstan, and influenced Kyrgyz cuisine. The visual appeal of dishes is important, and a variety of spices are used for flavor and color.

The national dish of Kyrgyzstan is besh-barmak "five fingers" - so-called because it used to be eaten without utensils. It is made with meat - usually mutton or horse and noodles that are boiled in the broth. Another Kyrgyz dish is oromo "filled bag", in which minced meat and vegetables are steamed inside a pocket of soft dough. The most common drink is kumis - fermented mare\\\\'s milk, and other traditional drinks are made with camel or sheep milk.

Kyrgyzstan National Dress

The sharp continental climate and nomadic culture demand practical clothing. Padded layers, sheepskin coats – the chapan, silk tunics and felt hats provide warmth and mobility. The kalpak, the white men’s wool hat is worn everywhere. Made out of four triangles of felt, the bottom can be rolled up to form a brim. It’s certainly a distinctive feature of dress in Kyrgyzstan.

Girls traditionally wore long white dresses with embroidered velvet vests. Heavy skirts would be worn over these in winter. Their hair was arranged in about forty braids and covered with elaborate headdresses. Her wedding dress would be more elaborate with a cone-shaped hat and veil. After marriage, two plaits were the norm.

Kyrgyzstan Music

The Kyrgyz have been famous for their musical talent since ancient times. Through the oral traditions handed down from generation to generation, these epic and narrative songs have developed, as each performer introduced new variations and details.

The most famous Kyrgyz epic is Manas, the thousand-year-old story of a hero who defended his land and his people. Longer than the Iliad and the Odyssey combined, it recounts the lifestyle of the Kyrgyz people - their customs, traditions, morals, religious rites, knowledge of medicine, and diplomatic relations.

Kyrgyzstan Bazaars

In Bishkek, you can visit the Osh Bazaar, the most vibrant and fascinating place to immerse yourself in the local culture. This, the city\\\\'s most popular market, has everything you can possibly find in Kyrgyzstan, including Moorish sweets and beautiful fabrics.

The Dordoy Bazaar, on the outskirts of Bishkek, stretches for more than a kilometer, and is a major shopping center. It is also the main outlet for imported goods from China and Europe.

The Karakol market, open on Sundays only, is the most famous and colorful horse market in Central Asia. Here you will find livestock of all kinds: roly-poly piglets, woolly sheep, and all kinds of cattle. The market includes a section for cars and used car parts, with bits of scrap metal artistically arranged on the ground.

Kyrgyzstan Applied and Decorative Art

Felt is the most popular material for several products in Kyrgyzstan, including ornamental carpets and other elements of the yurts. Shirdakcarpets have beautiful repetitive patterns taken from the natural environment in deep rich colors. Ala-Kiyiz, another popular type of carpet, are variegated and have subtler, "washed-out" colors that leave less definition to the borders and have their own unique appearance.

Other handcrafts that you will find in Kyrgyzstan includes beautiful embroidery with a great variety of stitches creating different textures and patterns unique to the Kyrgyz. Jewelry is crafted with a combination of various decorative techniques, such as filigree, engraving, and coralwork. Leather is intricately patterned and tooled. The Kyrgyz also make beautiful braided screens, using reeds that grow in the foothills of the Kyrgyz mountains.

Source: www.centralasiacultures.com

IFÁ OLÓDÙMARÈ, AWO, THE TRUTH AND NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH

We do not create a PR around the truth because the cost of PR will affect its price. At least someone has to pay for the cameras.

This is why Ifá does not have a body that says it wants to "fight" the cause of Ifá itself, because Ifá is set on its cause already, eternal, unchanging, you either align willingly or you will be aligned irrespective of your will - FOR THE COUNSEL OF OLÓDÙMARÈ SHALL STAND. AS IT WAS IN THE BEGINNING, SO IT IS NOW AND SO SHALL IT BE, WORLD WITHOUT END - How do you then take up responsibility to fight for this supreme existential all encompassing being by waging a war in its name on fellow creatures for the purpose of establishing your political footing. (This is an entirely different discussion - I know you already know where this is coming from and where it is going).

Ifá is not a tool for manipulation but a tool to align you with itself - the word of Olódùmarè - the ultimate truth.

If you therefore see Ifá as a tool to manipulate, at least, you yourself know within yourself that that is not what Ọ̀rúnmìlà teaches. And that can be excused. You can not be judged for it by any of us, not even Ọ̀rúnmìlà, it is very much between you and your Orí. The only person you actually owe an apology for going against the eternal order is your Orí. Orí is your all in all. 

A good Babaláwo will help you to connect with your Orí so that you will be getting directions from your Orí through your own prayers. 

Heal allows you experience what is called Awo - and he will not brainwash you into his version of what he wants. 

Awo does not mean "Mystery", it means the state of ONENESS with the UNIVERSE. 

This is the essence of Ifá practice, that is the utmost Holiness - One with the Universe. In Ifá, you are not disconnected from the world (universe), you are a contributing part of it. And your energy must be in order with the eternal order at all times for good vibes for you and around you (the universe). 

I assume that this ONENESS with the Universe will be the closest experience (for me) to what the Christians and the Muslims call Heaven in their Holy Books. - A State of Absolute Peace.

It is a practice designed to connect you with the real you, not psyche you into the possibility of a better you when you do not initially know the real you. 

It is not based on creed recitations. forced convictions and dogmas, it is a being.

Awo (Ifá) is about becoming the real you. When you become the real you, then you can be improving on the right things and avoiding the wrong things to become a better you - thus your own uniqueness blends with the entire order of the universe as set by Ifá Olódùmarè. Irrespective of what is going on around you, you just stay focused.

Thankfully, the Babaláwo is not gifted with the skill of manipulation, if he does, his clothes will be tattered, he knows. So, those who go and meet Adahunṣes to help them alter the cause of their lives are simply doing that at the detriment of themselves. 

The Adahunṣe's own is to give you what you ask for, how you ask it. If you ask for what the repercussion might be, he might tell you. If you do not ask, he will keep quiet. If he proceeds to do it for you then he too will have to know that it is not affecting his own Orí, if not, he himself will come and reap out of the repercussions. There are umales that strike their Aworos down with sickness that will eventually kill them when they use their hand to do bad thing. 

Such Adahunṣe, if he is lucky to see a Babaláwo or Ọlọ́ṣun, then they will be able to let him know that it is his umale that is dealing with him and might be able to guide him into the steps to take to survive.

If you go to a Babaláwo, it should be because you want to know the truth about yourself or a particular situation as it affects your wellness and the wellness of your family and community. 

If you want to travel abroad, ask if that step would be right for you or you should hold on? 

Not, "Baba, I want you to give me something that I will use to apply for visa and they will grant me". 

Or if you love a woman, ask your Iponri if such woman will bring goodness into your life and both of you will have a long life and be successful together with kids and all good things of life. Not "Baba, give me something to make this girl fall in love with me".

Even if what you are doing is fraudulent because of the situation of the country/world, ask if such step is okay for your Iponri to not fight against you but to assist you. Don't say "Baba, give me what I can use to be talking to clients to give me money". Sadly, this is what most people think Ifá is, thanks to Nollywood and other misleading woods!

The Babaláwo is meant to help you correct faulty steps and foundations that are in your life maybe from your action or by reason of your elénìní (chosen ọ̀tá) that is accompanying your particular ayanmo or family background enemy or from a wrong association in your immediate environment. 

Ọ̀rúnmìlà came to make life easy for the inhabitants of the earth by teaching them how to know the mind of Olódùmarè (who deals with each Orí individually) concerning their own situation in order to avoid what needs to be avoided and have the grace and patience to endure what needs to be endured as it has been forewarned. 

That way you know what you exert energy upon and what you allow to play out.

This is a simple summary of Yoruba spirituality, I do not know how this can get to the skull of everyone but we can not force it there. Not like some people do/did their own. 

My own solace in all of this is that I believe that humans are intelligent enough to know when they are being used or manipulated. And they also know themselves when they are the ones playing the fool for what they enjoy having. If not, well, maybe such people need to be subjected to manipulation in order for them to be able to evolve into full humans. 

Even the air knows when it is being manipulated and it responds appropriately!

There is an autocorrect mechanism that is follow-come with the universe, it is the reason why I believe that statement "we will be alright las Las". The Counsel of Orí will stand. 

My friend Iyanifa Efe Mena Aletor puts it this way, if you don't align with your Orí, what you get is Ibi and if you align with your Orí, what you get is Ire. So the ball is pretty much in your court.

By Ayobami Ogedengbe

ÌWÀ (CHARACTER)

To’ju iwa re, ore mi,

Ola a ma si lo n’ile eni,

Ewa a si ma si l’ara enia.

Olowo oni ‘nd’olosi b’o d’ola,

Okun l’ola, okun n’igbi oro,

Gbogbo won l’o nsi lo n’ile eni;

Sugbon iwa ni m’ba ni de sare’e,

Owo ko je nkan fun ni.

Iwa l’ewa omo enia,

Bi o l’owo bi o ko ni’wa nko?

Tani je f’inu tan e ba s’ohun rere?

Tabi ki o je obirin rogbodo,

Ti o ba jina si’wa ti eda nfe,

Tani je fe o s’ile bi aya?

Tabi ki o je onijibiti enia,

Bi o tile mo iwe amodaju;

Tani je gbe’se aje fun o se?

Toju Iwa re, ore mi,

Iwa ko si, eko d’egbe;

Gbogbo aiye ni ‘nfe ‘ni t’o je rere.

ENGLISH TRANSLATION:

Enhance your character, my friend,

Prosperity could depart from one’s home,

And beauty could retreat from people’s bodies.

Today’s rich could become poor tomorrow,

Opulence is like ocean’s surfs; it is like ocean’s waves,

They come and go from one’s home as they please;

But, only good character follows one to the grave.

Money is not everything to anyone,

Good character is the beauty of a mortal,

What if you are wealthy without good character?

Who would trust you with something serious?

Perhaps, you are a gorgeous woman,

If you are far from societal norms,

Who would marry you as a wife?

Or you are a fraudulent person,

May be you are well educated;

Who would transact business with you?

Enhance your character, my friend,

In the absence of character, education is a waste;

The whole world appreciates a well-mannered person.

•Poetry by the late Chief J.F. Odunjo, renowned Yoruba playwright, poet, politician, and statesman – from one of his popular Alawiye series.

Eastern Security Network Launched

The launching of the latest security outfit by the Biafran leader to protect all the lands under the jurisdiction of his Biafra is a reminder of the early stages of defunct Yugoslavian crisis before the then socialist country of Tito eventually gotten broken to its natural manageable constituent parts. The Croatians, under their own indigenous government in Yugoslavia armed their people and able bodied men against the Serbians Federal controlled government of Yugoslavia (the equivalent of the Fulani in Nigeria) Yugoslavia. While other regions or federations are seeing  the Croatians as trouble makers and as enemies of the greater Yugoslavian project. The Croatian Regional leadership,  formed and armed young boys and men,  to protect the people of Croatia against all odds,  was responsible for the  positive advantage of Croatian republic,  quickly broken away to protect their people,  and not the pockets of the political class from Croatian extraction,  benefiting from the Yugoslavia political fiasco.

The Croatian people merely suffered minimum human and physical destruction from the invading Serbian militia backed by federal troops, just like what the Buhari administration is doing with Boko- Haram, Fulani herdsmen and bandit debacle in Nigeria.

Those regions in Yugoslavia, just like the Yoruba Nation and people, that  are not decisive in their quest to armed and protect themselves ,  as those regions were doing in Yugoslavia same thing, other ethnic nations in Nigeria are doing right now, while  the Serbians,  with the Federal control of power are preparing to invade their land and subjugated their respective peoples and regions,  under Yugoslavia. Others who refused to prepared became the major victims of the wars of Serbian supremacist (Fulani Replica in Nigeria)  agenda in defunct Yugoslavia.

Bosnia, Herzegovina, Kosovo, Slovenia and the others suffered greatly because their political class, their profiteers and puppeteers businessmen were at that time benefiting from the Serbian lead Yugoslavian federal Government and other Regional structural arrangements, refused to see the impending danger and supports the process of securing and eventually safeguard the lives of their people by aiding their efforts to pullout of Yugoslavia. 

The above message is the interpretation of the  actions of the IPOB leader, for lunching the Regional security outfit under the control of his command and not in the hands of their one Nigeria hungry eating political class. 

The above stage is where the Yoruba Nation and people are now as where Republic of Bosnia once was.

By Adigun Makanjuola.

OGBÈ PẸ̀LẸ́ (Corpus of Easiness)

Ọrúnmìlà hí pẹ̀lẹ́-pẹ̀lẹ́

Mi pẹ̀lẹ́-pẹ̀lẹ 

Bara-mi-Àgbọniregun

Hí pẹ̀lẹ́-pẹ̀lẹ 

Ni ojú ńmọ́.

Ọrúnmìlà hí pẹ̀lẹ́-pẹ̀lẹ́

Mi pẹ̀lẹ́-pẹ̀lẹ 

Bara-mi-Àgbọniregun

Hí pẹ̀lẹ́-pẹ̀lẹ́ 

Ni ilẹ̀ ǹṣú.

Igbá pẹ̀lẹ́ 

Kìí fọ́ 

Àwo pẹ̀lẹ́ 

Kìí fà ya 

Ohun a fi ẹ̀lẹ̀ mú 

Kìí bàjẹ́ 

Ohun a bá fi agbára mú 

Níí le koko bí ọta.

Hárá-hárá gbì 

Ni a ngbọ́ 

Ẹnìkan kìí gbọ́ 

Pẹ̀lẹ́-pẹ̀lẹ́ gbìì.

Ò ní ẹ̀yìnkùlé Àùrẹ̀ 

Mà ni wọ́n ti ńgbé òkú 

Alágbára kọjá o.

Ifá ní kí a lọ ṣe pẹ̀lẹ́-pẹ̀lẹ́!

Translations:

Orunmila said with ease 

With ease; I repeated 

Bara-mi-Àgbọnìrègún 

He said the day breaks 

With ease.

Ọ̀runmila said with ease 

With ease; I responded 

Bara-mi-Àgbọnìrègún 

He said the sun sets 

With ease.

A calabash handled with ease 

Will never break 

A plate carried with ease 

Will never fracture 

What we tend with ease 

Will not rupture

That which is handle with force

Is as tough as stone.

Impatience leads 

To a sudden fall.

No one falls 

With an easy ride.

A dirge for the Mighty 

Will be sung 

Passing through the backyard

Of the Meek.

Ifá admonishes us to imbibe the virtues of easiness. 

Everything happens at its appointed time. The bitter truth is, you cannot force the hand of time. 

You are but an infinitesimal

part of the entire cosmos. 

At the appropriate time, everyone will be served what he deserves. You can only rush things at your own peril.

OGBÈ PẸ̀LẸ́

By Oluwo Akomolafe Wande

Copyrights: © 2020

Explore: Origins of Egyptian Folk Music

The Zar Masters band - courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Folk music in Egypt has roots stretching all the way back to the ancient past, even before the time of the Pharaohs.

Egyptians, of course, have always loved music. It was a sign of civilization, a gift from the Gods. Paintings of music players adorn the walls of ancient tombs; amongst the earliest instruments found is the Simsimiyya, a five-stringed lyre thought to be the instrument of lovers.

Much like most folk traditions of the ancient world, Ancient Egyptians likely passed on their music and techniques down orally, which means it has since been lost to the sands of time. Other instruments included drums, rattles, bells, cymbals, and trumpets, amongst others. Egypt’s immensely long history has ensured that an endless list of cultures, from neighboring tribes to the Greeks, contributed their part in shaping and influencing its sound.

The modern Egyptian folk tradition originated in the turn of the 20th century, when musicians became interested in preserving the music of the people around them. In particular, rural Egyptians or the ‘Fellahin’ and Nubian; Ethiopian and Bedouin tribes shared in their folk music.

An interesting example of Egypt’s many folk music traditions is the mysterious ‘Zar’. Both mystic and musical, Zar is believed to have originated from the ancient Ethiopian tribes, who passed on the tradition to the Egyptians. Considered to be Egypt’s oldest folk tradition, there is much disagreement as to its origins, with some scholars suggesting it emerged with the influx of Sudanese immigrants, and so the truth is shrouded in mystery.

The purposes of Zar go beyond the creation of pleasing sounds; it is a form of exorcism, believed to cast away evil spirits. Egyptian Zar in particular involves the usage of female singers in the forefront, with men playing drums.

Unfortunately, Zar has been struggling in more modern times. Religious backlash and fears that the music might be ‘black magic’ have always plagued Zar’s reputation, and lack of public demand threatens that the tradition could fade away. Thankfully, there are still those who hold on to preserving much of Egypt’s folk traditions. 

Last week, the Wanas Festival concluded its third edition, which ran from November 9 until November 11. The festival brought together numerous local bands in one place, with an aim to help bring back these precious traditions and introduce them to a new generation of Egyptians. Educating and encouraging an interest in the beauty of Egypt’s rich musical heritage is the festival's reason to be.

The festival was the effort of the El-Mastaba Center for Egyptian Folklore Music, which started its first edition back in 2014. As Abdel Hamid Awwas states in the center’s official site, folk music is the glue that holds communities together and its importance cannot be understated. Founded all the way back in 2000 by Zakaria Ibrahim, the El-Mastaba Center aims to help struggling folk musicians who cannot compete with modern bands. The antidote to this dilemma is to help revive folk traditions by reminding people of its unique value and priceless history.

Still, the issue goes even deeper, trying into the heart of classists' attitudes among richer Egyptians who view folk performers as poor and uneducated. The tourist industry, only just recovering, does little to help encourage folk traditions further and in some cases the artists are devalued as just another product to consume.

The heart of Egypt’s folk music is that it is by the people, about the people, and for the people. To forget this is to forget what it is that truly defines a culture; those who live in it.

By Nizar Ahmed

Source: www.egypttoday.com

Traditional / folk music of Egypt

Egypt is one of the most ancient civilizations in the history of mankind. And music had been part of this great culture from long time ago.  Many ancient music instrument has been discovered in Egypt although nobody knows how exactly the sound was or how they played them. For example some kind of flutes have been discovered on rock drawings and pottery from Egypt circa 3000 BCE. Or some kinds of harp, pipe and clarinet style music instruments have been found in Tombs circa 2686 BCE.

Cairo, capital of Egypt has been one of the main music centers in Middle East and Arab worlds. (with Syria, Lebanon and Iraq). Cairo has the biggest recording industry in Arab world. 

Before Islam, folk music of Egypt was consist of Caravan songs and folk songs related to mundane life events. In the early days of Islam, folk music was permitted for entertainment and sometimes it was used for immoral behaviors.  For example non Arab singing slave girls were used for entertainment.  Their name were Qaynas. Of course later, they were banded by Islam.

Arabic Classical Music 

The classical Arabic music which is also very common in Egypt as a traditional music. It is very similar to other classical music of countries in Middle East. It is said that it was started in 7th century in Syria and it was formed under the influence of modal music of Persia and India. This traditional music when it came to Egypt it had also influence of Greek music. One of most significant aspect of this traditional music is quarter notes, which gives very special taste to the music and its feeling. Egyptians generally are very fond of this music. 

Nubian Music

This type of folk music is related to Nubian people. They live in south of Egypt and north of Sudan. Also many of them today live in Cairo. In the traditional way, Nubian music accompanied by daf (kind of drum) and hand clapping. One of the most significant Nubian musicians was Ali Hassan Kuban. He was known as the "Captain" or "Godfather" of Nubian music. He converted traditional Nubian music into urban music by inspiring from jazz bands in Cairo night clubs. Hamza el-Din   is also another important Nubian musician who collaborated with many western musicians.  

Saidi (Upper Egyptian)

Egyptian musicians from Upper Egypt play a form of folk music called Saidi (Upper Egyptian). It is played with the flutes, the oboes, the two-stringed fiddles style instrument, and impassioned vocalism and drumming of a peasant culture with strong gypsy roots, in which popular and classical met.

Shaabi

This type of folk music is in fact street music and pop Arabic music. It is one of the most popular music of Egypt and today it is also mixed with different western music genres. Ahmed Adaweyah was one of the most important singers of Shaabi music. 

Some of the instrument which are used in folk music of Egypt are oud (kind of lute), rahab (kind of bowed single stringed), qanon (kind of zither), violin, nay or ney (end blown flute), darabukka (kind of goblet drum), and daff(kind of frame drum). In the early times of 20th century, typical Arabic orchestral was consist of oud, qanun, ney and violin.  The name of ensemble was “takht” which means “sofa”.

If you have more information about the folk music of Egypt, please kindly let us know through the contact us page. If you know some traditional songs from Egypt, you can send it from “Post a song” link in the top menu. If you see something wrong in the tags of list below, please kindly let us know.  

Source: www.soundcloud.com

Five Festivals in South Korea

These five fun festivals in South Korea are perfect for the entire family.

While we love exploring the islands around Hong Kong, taking in the best hiking trails and luxing it up on a Hong Kong staycation, sometimes we need to go further afield, somewhere like South Korea. Beyond the K-Pop, the kimchi and the karaoke, there are so many wonderful things to do in the Land of the Morning Calm, and these five festivals in South Korea should be at the top of your list. With Seoul just a short four-hour flight from Hong Kong, you’ll easily be able to fit in some K-Time; we promise you’ll thank us later.

5 festivals in South Korea that you won’t want to miss:

Taebaek Mountain Snow Festival 

The Taebaek Mountain Snow Festival is so much more than just snowmen! Expect entire cities and sculptures crafted from snow (Photo: Josh Dunn via Flickr)

South Korea really does love a good winter festival, and there’s none quite like the wonderful Taebaek Mountain Snow Festival. Held every year in Taebaeksan National Park, Gangwon-do, thousands of people gather to see some of the most mind-blowing snow sculptures that celebrate the winter season.

If you’re picturing a variety of below-average snowmen, then think again, because these snow sculptors create entire scenes and cities that will have both old and young mesmerised. Along with all the beautiful creations, visitors will enjoy music and dance performances, live karaoke competitions, Igloo cafes and a family-friendly vibe resonating throughout the town.

Handy hints for Taebaek Mountain Snow Festival:

•  Wrap up super warm for this one folks, as Korea in winter time can be very harsh.

•  Consider a hip flask of something warm to keep you well heated.

•  Getting there: Take the train from Seoul station. The journey takes around four hours.

Taebaek Mountain Snow Festival, annually in January-February.

Jeju Fire Festival

The fire historically cleared the grass of vermin in time for a new harvest, and is quite a sight to behold (Photo: Garrett via Flickr)

Even if you’ve already been to the beautiful island of Jeju, eaten the oranges, ridden the horses, seen the pearl divers and taken the honeymoon pictures, you’re not going to want to miss the Jeju Fire Festival.

Held every year from late February to early March, and coinciding with Lunar New Year, Saebyeol Oreum, a hill in Jeju city is set alight to welcome both good health and good harvest for the upcoming year. Originally, the fire was a way of getting rid of vermin, but now it’s simply a wonderful spectacle to witness. There’s always a great fireworks display to mark the end of the festival, as well as many performances, games and cultural workshops throughout the city. So put this on your must-do list of festivals in Southwest Korea to visit soon.

Handy hints for Jeju Fire Festival: 

•  Jeju is a popular local and international travel destination, especially at Lunar New Year, so definitely plan ahead for this one.

•  Getting there: A number of airlines, including HK Express fly direct to Jeju from Hong Kong.

Jeju Fire Festival, annually around February/March.

Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival:

If you’re looking for gorgeous natural beauty, then look no further than the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival (Photo: Hoju Saram via Flickr)

So, you think Japan is the only place with a blossom festival? Not true! The Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the most magical festivals in South Korea, and it’s definitely one that you should try and time your trip to enjoy.

Hundreds of thousands of stunning cherry blossoms can be found during the spring time, turning the areas around both Yeojwacheon and Gyeonghwa Station into vistas that look like something straight from a movie set. In fact, K-drama fans will probably recognise the ‘Romance Bridge’, which has found its way into many a Korean drama.

On top of the wonderfully photographic cherry blossoms, visitors can also see some sharply choreographed military performances and enjoy a selection of street foods, including swirly potato sticks and whole pigs that roast over open flames. Food, flowers and fancy footwork? Who could ask for anything more from a festival?

Handy hints for Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival:

•  Traffic from Seoul to Jinhae during the festival is insane, so definitely opt for the train.

•  It’s all about timing when it comes to this festival, as when the blossoms bloom is quite difficult to predict, so keep an eye on the weather and forums to see what people in Korea are saying.

•  Getting there: Korail makes special trips to Jinhae from Seoul Station during the festival, which takes approximately four hours.

Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival, annually around March/April.

Boryeong Mud Festival

The Boryeong Mud Festival is definitely one of the quirkiestu Korean festivals (and so much fun!) (Photo: Hypnotica Studios Infinite via Flickr)

When it comes to festivals in South Korea, you haven’t lived until you’ve visited the Boryeong Mud Festival. Held on Daecheon beach in Boryeong, Chungcheongnam-do (just a few hours drive from Seoul), this is the perfect event for everyone, whether you want to hit the Hite beers with your crew or if you’re with the whole family. The highlight of the festival, unsurprisingly, is mud, but Boryeong mud has special cleansing and anti-aging properties, meaning that getting covered head-to-toe in the stuff is actually good for you skin, as well as being hilariously amusing.

There’s a Family Zone that includes a range of toys and games for the kids (covered in the obligatory muddy-goodness of course!) while adult children can amusek themselves with delights like mud wrestling, mud slides, or a variety of skincare treatments that are set up around the boardwalk. Being on the beach means you can nip into the water to clean off before hitting the food zone that features delights from across the Korean peninsula, and don’t miss the live entertainment that pops up throughout the event.

While the Boryeong Mud Festival may not be the height of traditional Korean culture, it is a genuinely good time.

Handy hints for Boryeong Mud Festival:

•  Wear clothes that you don’t mind destroying; you’re going to get dirty, no matter what your intentions.

•  Book your accommodation well in advance for this one, as this is one of the most popular festivals in South Korea, and locals and expats flock to it every year.

•  Getting there: Buses depart from Central City Bus Station in Seoul to Boryeong at regular intervals and the journey takes around two hours.

Boryeong Mud Festival, annually in July.

Busan International Film Festival

Film buffs throughout Asia can’t get enough of the Busan International Film Festival, and for very good reason. South Korea has a thriving film industry (did you know it’s the only country in the world where Titanic didn’t make it to number one at the box office because a local film bet it out?) and every year in October sees guests gather in the southern city of Busan to watch hundreds of films from both South Korea and further afield.

Set across five theatres, lovers of classic cinema will want to check out the Korean cinema retrospective programming, while others may prefer the range of international and local premieres. One of the highlights of this festival in South Korea is the outdoor Busan Cinema Center that hosts the opening and closing screenings, as well as selected programming throughout. The stunning complex is quite spectacular, so don’t miss out on treating yourself to the experience. What’s more, the general buzz of the city during the festival is so overwhelming that you can’t help but fall more in love with the coastal city that seems to just burst with culture and creativity.

Handy hints for Busan International Film Festival:

•  Book both your tickets and accommodation for this well in advance, as many K-fans from China, Japan and Taiwan travel to this event along with large groups of locals and expats.

•  Getting there: A number of airlines fly direct from Hong Kong to Busan, and it only takes around three hours.

By Sophie Cullen

Source: www.thehoneycombers.com

China ‘shocks’ the world with 6G amidst 5G controversies

While most nations of the world are still rolling out 5G at a very low pace, China has gone a step higher with the 6G network.

In fact, the rest of the world barely grasps the truest essence of 5G, let alone agreeing on what 6G will even be. On the 6th of November, 2020, China successfully launched a Long March 6 rocket and sent a payload of 13 satellites into orbit. Among them was what was described as “the world’s first 6G satellite”.

5G can be referred to as the fifth generation technology standard for broadband cellular networks. The deployment of 5G Networks by the telecom industry began in 2019 across the world, and it is the planned successor to the 4G networks which provide connectivity to most current cell phones.

However, 5G has become intensely controversial in many locations, with people, and a few scientists, expressing concerns about the possible health effects of radio-frequency (RF) energy transmitted by 5G base stations.

The oppositions to the 5G network focuse on two characteristics.

5G systems will operate in several frequency bands, including one that is slightly below (and will eventually extend into) the millimetre-wave part of the RF spectrum that extends from 30 to 300 GHz. While millimetre waves have not heretofore been used for cellular communications, they have been used for many other applications, including airport security scanners, anti-collision radar for automobiles, and to link present-day cellular base stations.

Second, 5G systems will rely on a multitude of “small cells” mounted close to subscribers, often on utility poles running along public streets. These small cells will incorporate “smart” antennas that transmit multiple beams (up to 64 with present designs, eventually more), which can be independently steered to individual subscribers. They operate at much lower power levels than “macro” cells used by present systems, which are typically located at the tops of buildings in urban areas.

To be fair, China has been at the forefront of 5G networking, with the country already adopting the newer and faster bandwidth into its infrastructure. Now, the economic powerhouse is moving forward with 6G networking, while other nations, including the US, are still struggling to roll out 5G networking. The race for 5G is largely responsible for the heightened US-China trade dispute, including sanctions imposed on Huawei, the leading 5G gear manufacturer.

First, what is 6G?

This is the 6th generation of connectivity technology. To put the high speeds into perspective, 6G is capable of downloading a high-definition movie in just 9 seconds and 3,800 high-resolution images in under a minute and 30 seconds. With the advent of the 6G, a surgeon from Abuja can use robotics to operate on a patient in Rivers State or even be used to save a life on the battlefield through another robot.

According to an explanation by the National Science Foundation’s Thyagarajan Nandagopal, the satellite Star Era-12 has a frequency band so high that it had to be tested in space to avoid signal disruption due to the atmosphere. Nandagopal estimates that a range of 100 and 500 Gigahertz, or GHz — 100 times faster than 5G. To understand that speed, compare 5G and 4G cellphones, a 5G model is 100 times faster than a 4G, depending on the carrier.

Recently, Google and Apple both joined a new 6G industry group, a North American trade group known as “the Next G Alliance.” That is perhaps a sign that we can likely expect 6G iPhones and Pixels to be known in the coming years.

Meanwhile, some industry critics believe that “it’s a bit of nonsense to call what China have just launched, 6G“. Perhaps because Chinese engineers claim that the satellite, jointly developed by the Chengdu Guoxing Aerospace Technology, the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, and Beijing Weina Xingkong Technology, could boost data speeds dramatically.

Japan has begun planning a comprehensive strategy for “post-5G” (6G) technology that achieves communication speeds 10 times faster than 5G by 2030. Even the South Korean government is planning on launching the pilot project for 6G networking in 2026.

Samsung Electronics, a South Korean tech giant, in a white paper titled “The Next Hyper-Connected Experience for All”, said it is expecting that the next generation of networking will arrive as early as 2028.

By Abraham Ebini

Source: www.neighbourhoodonline.com

A COUNTRY WITH NO VALUES

A British Lieutenant General Sir Fredrick Stanley Maude was tasked to conquer Baghdad in 1917.

Upon arrival to Iraq he came across a shepherd and his herd in a field, he asked his translator to offer a shilling to the shepherd and ask him to slaughter his dog.

A dog is very important companion to a shepherd. It warns him of all impeding dangers and guards, the herd from wolves and thieves, but at that time, with a shilling one could buy half a herd.....

The shepherd agreed to the deal, grabbed his dog and slaughtered it at the feet of the General.

General Maude said to the shepherd: "I'll give you an additional shilling to skin the dog!

The shepherd took the shilling and skinned the dog.

Then the General offered the third shilling to cut the dog into quarters.

The shepherd took the shilling and chopped the dog.  

Now the shepherd told the General that for a fourth shilling, he would eat the dog, to which the General answered: "I wanted to learn about your values in this country, and I discovered that you slaughtered, skinned and chopped your most trusted friend and companions for three shilling!

You were even ready to eat it for an additional one....That's all I needed to learn about your country!".

Then he addressed his soldiers and said:

"As long as this kind of mentality prevails in this country and you can buy anyone, don't fear anything and no one!' 

Since that time, and till our days in that part of the world, officials have sold their countries, their people, their friends, their honor and their principles for a house in Europe, or a bank account in Switzerland.

Are you any different from that shepherd?

Are our shepherds in this country different from shepherds in Baghdad, Iraq of old and indeed other parts of the corrupt and selfish world?

Let Us Change The Face Of Our Country For The Better!

15 THINGS TO NOTE ABOUT THE NEW LAGOS-IBADAN TRAIN RIDE

I took the Lagos-Ibadan train ride on the second day after it was officially opened for commercial business. It was a wonderful experience. I know  many people would write about the train as more people get to use it, so I would only focus on salient points that people may miss in this essay of mine.

1. Very few people know exactly where to board the train, not even people who live around the train station. So, in Lagos, the place to board the train is the train station at Alagomeji bus stop in the Yaba area. You go on the road from Ojuelegba through Tejuosho to burst out at Yaba. Once you get to the end of Tejuosho road, turn right and just keep going down like you are going to the end of the road. Keep looking at your right where you have the BRT lane, you would see Alagomeji bus stop. Right next to the bus stop is the entrance to the train station. It is an old building.

2. You need to go with an I.D card. Any I.D card is being accepted for now. Without an I.D card,  you CAN'T purchase a ticket. It is MANDATORY.

3. You want to get to the train station at least 30 minutes before departure time. This is to allow you have time to purchase tickets, register and do the trek to the platform. The train leaves at the dot of time. 4PM!

4. Except you go in a group,  or you want to be lonely, don't bother to buy the Business class or VIP tickets for now (I made that mistake), just buy the economy ticket and you would enjoy the trip more as you would meet people and have valuable conversations. I actually  left the VIP cabin to go sit in the economy cabin all through the journey.

5. The train ride is a great way of networking. I made valuable contacts on the train. You would be surprised at how an innocuous looking person  is a high network personality.

6. The least ticket is NGN 2,500 while the highest VIP ticket is NGN 6,000. The 2,500 ticket gets you to sit in the 88 passengers cabin while the 6k ticket gets you to sit in a 24 passenger cabin. The prices are a bit lower if you are dropping at Abeokuta instead of Ibadan.

7. The train carries 412 people at once in full capacity, that is an equivalent of 23 18-seater passenger buses. There are cabins for 88 passengers, 68 passengers, 56 passengers and 24 passenger.

8. The A.C in the train can be very chilling at times, you can call on the train hostesses to adjust the temperature (I actually did this).

9. For now, there is only one station where the train stops, that is the Abeokuta station. Most other stations on the route are still being built.

10. The last train station in Ibadan is at Moniya. It is a 10 minutes drive to Ọjọọ main park in Ibadan, and about 20mins to Iwo road park.

11. For now, you would always arrive in Ibadan at dusk (around 6.30pm), so you need to make provision for your transportation out of the station as it would be dark when you arrive. The ride is currently a 2hrs 30 mins ride. It would be reduced to less than 2 hours after some time. The current speed of an average of 70km/hr is to allow for the soil compartment and safety reasons (people still don't know about the trains and they still just walk across rail line or graze cattles across). Speed would be increased as time goes on.

12. Currently, there are no cabs to take people from the train station to Moniya town (I couldn't get uber to send me a cab), so be prepared to trek for about 800 meters before you get to Molarere junction where you would get a tricycle to Moniya town itself, before you can then connect to other areas of Ibadan. So,  for elderly people who can't do the trekking, please arrange a pickup at the train station before you arrive.

13. There are affordable hotels around Moniya, for those who just want to fulfill their curiosity like me. There are fair hotel rooms of 4,000 naira.  I slept in one of such.

14. For now,  foods or drinks are not served or sold on the train, this is to comply with Covid rules (another reason why VIP ticket is a waste at this time).

15. Consumption of Alcohol is NOT allowed on the train (yes,  even if you bring yours in, you can't drink while in the train).

It was a very smooth and stress free ride. Also very convenient. People going for the Christmas holidays in Abeokuta, Ibadan, Oyo, or Ilorin should use the train service instead of buses, they would find out that traveling during festivities can actually be fun.

Two things that need to be looked into from the beginning :

1. Availability of Online purchase of tickets 

2. Prohibition of preaching in the cabins. 

By- Otunba Fadairo Olufemi

SOLUTION TO TOOTH PAIN

Tooth ache is a pain or inflammation in or around the tooth, often caused by tooth decay or infection. Toothache has been one of life is worst nightmares. Throughout history, man has been searching for solution that will help with healing and to reduce swelling and pain. Local plants were recognized for their medicinal properties but efficacy does not last as the pain resurfaces after a while.

If you eventually go to hospital to seek for solution to your tooth ache, they will remove the affected tooth and after a while, the infection will be transferred to another tooth, if you go back they will happily remove that one and so on, for me there is no solution there because they keep removing your teeth and making money without solution, until they empty your mouth.

There is a simple remedy that solve the problem of toothache permanently and without much cost, this remedy has been tested as trusted by thousands of people who previously had tooth challenges. This remedy is ALUM.

Alum , is a transparent ice/salt like substance that is used in filtration of pond water, as well as for medicinal purposes. There are various types of Alum such as Potassium Alum or potash. This is the remedy that had been sought, for centuries without success. We are lucky to have it here as i unveil the direction for usage.!

How to get ALUM

Alum is sold in all the food markets in Nigeria, just visit food market and ask of Alum, they will give it to you.

After your dinner, brush your teeth with our normal tooth paste, take a piece of ALUM, put it directly to the affected tooth, close your mouth and not swallow your spit (not that it is dangerous to the health), the spit in your mouth is what is going to react with ALUM. After about 10-15minutes, remove the first spit and repeat same again, then your can go to bed.

Secondly, before breakfast put a small quantity of the alum at the affected part of the teeth, hold it tight and gaggle the saliva for 10- 15 minutes before spitting it out, after your breakfast, repeat the remedy as instructed, you must definitely notice that the pain had subsided. Do not relent as the pain has gone down, repeat the process for 5days, then watch and see the miracles unfolding.

After reading this, share to some of your contacts , you know that everybody will not be having the opportunity to get the information. Many people are dying in pain caused by tooth ache...

Copyrights: © 2020

HUMAN DESTINY (ASIKO EDA)

Have you noticed that even in School not all of us in the same class were of the same age? Did you still notice that others were younger than we were yet sometimes performed better than we did?

Have you even noticed that there were others who were poor yet always carried first position and others who usually paid their school fees first always came last?

Have you noticed that some of your mates in high school wrote ‘Nov/Dec’ Exams and got admission into the University earlier before you did but eventually on the long run you got a job earlier before some of them did?

Have you even noticed that some of your friends with whom you had good jobs died before the age of 30… the same age others actually had a good Job? 

Have you noticed that others had their dream Jobs at 40… the same age others were laid off?

Well, have you noticed that some of your friends married at the age of 25 and divorced at 25 and half while others married at 35 and are still married even at 60?

Have you noticed that others gave birth at 22, right after marriage and ever since haven’t been able to give birth again while some gave birth to triplets at the age of 45?

Have you noticed that someone who had been single at age 30, got married after just months of dating while others who have dated since age 15 still have no glimpse of a wedding even at age 49 and half?

Have you noticed that someone became a Superstar at 12 and before 40 died a shameful death of drug abuse while another ‘ordinary’ man died of old age at 93 and quarter?

Have you even noticed that someone drives the latest four-wheeler and has a mansion yet has no place to call a home while another man lives on the Street which he excitedly calls his home after feeding on crumbs? Have you even noticed that some kids have all the latest Gadgets at home yet know no happiness while others in slums know the secrets of happiness no one knows?

Have you still noticed that others who were born into royalty end up living like slaves while those who were born as slaves end up living in majesty? Have you ever taken time to notice this?

Have you even taken note of the fact that some students become Professors when their Lecturers are still Doctorate Degree holders?

Have You Noticed that the first sometimes become last and the one close to being the last indeed becomes first?

Have you noticed that a student who was pronounced ‘Dead On Arrival’ in Class became Albert Einstein while the best in that Class was never heard of?

Have You Noticed that sometimes the best Teams don’t win when they should… and the worst Teams don’t lose when they should?

Have you noticed that the best players don’t necessarily become the best coaches and the best coaches sometimes can’t even kick a ball!?

Have you noticed that this maze called Life can drive you crazy with its unpredictability?

Have you noticed that the most important asset we may ever have in this life is neither a car or a house but life itself?

Have you noticed that what we so badly yearn to have are sometimes wants not needs?

Have you noticed that it doesn’t make sense to compare ourselves with others because what they have now, we may have later.... and vice versa? 

Have you noticed that though we all are humans, we have different harvest seasons? 

Have you noticed that comparing ourselves with others is like comparing apples with oranges? Though they all are fruits, they have different harvest seasons, taste, and even outward look!

We start living when we stop comparing. 

We start living when we stop wishing to be like others.

We start living when we get to know that just as apples and oranges have different harvest seasons, we also all have different harvest seasons.

Have you noticed that you don’t have to give up on yourself as long as you have life?

Have you noticed that life shares its goodies to some during the day and others at night?

All your contemporaries may have gotten married already but surely it will be your turn very soon.

Your class mates may have their dream jobs today but surely yours will come too very soon.

Your friends may be bearing children now but yours will definitely come, too very soon. 

It may not be now but eventually it will be. 

All you need is life, patience and hope.

*Conditions are temporary and they have expiry dates. Whatever you are going through today has an expiration time.*

Have you noticed that it took only a day for Joseph’s brothers to bow before him without knowing they were fulfilling the dream he had once told them about many years ago? 

Smile, your harvest season will surely come. Your dream shall come to pass.

This life is unpredictable. It is ‘Someway’, have you noticed it?

The way leaves fall freely from the trees, so will our due season will fall unto us freely one day.

Copyrights: © 2020

Just Ponder On This

*One of the basics of mathematics is knowing whether the number is even or odd, divisible by 2 and by the sum of its numbers*. But look at this strange number!

The number *2520* looks like a normal number like other numbers, but it is not like that. *It is a strange number and is rarely found between numbers* and has puzzled mathematics geniuses to this day!!

*The strange thing is that it is divisible by numbers from 1 to 10, whether these numbers are odd or even!!!*

It is known that it is difficult or even impossible to find a number that does that!!

And when we say the division is accepted, we mean without any fractions remaining after the division process!!

*Follow the practical application:*

2520 ÷ 1 = 2520

2520 ÷ 2 = 1260

2520 ÷ 3 = 840

2520 ÷ 4 = 630

2520 ÷ 5 = 504

2520 ÷ 6 = 420

2520 ÷ 7 = 360

2520 ÷ 8 = 315

2520 ÷ 9 = 280

2520 ÷ 10 = 252

And after mathematicians were confused about finding a convincing mathematical relationship that would make one number divisible in this strange way, they discovered that this number is the product of the numbers: *《7 x 30 x 12》* that may appear at first glance to be random numbers, but it is not !!

So the surprise that made them more confused than their first was that this number *2520 is a multiplication of 7 days of the week x 30 days of the month x 12 months of the year.* Hmmmmm......

Truly our God is awesome 👌

Music in Djibouti

The music of Djibouti refers to the musical styles, techniques and sounds of Djibouti. The first major form of modern Djiboutian music began in the mid-1940s, when Djibouti was a part of the French Somaliland. Djiboutian music is characterized by poetry, so that listening to a Djiboutian song is first paying attention to its meaning. The artist rocks the listeners in the cheerfulness of the refrains and the turn of the sentences. Often sung by a couple, a song is played in the form of a sleight of hand between a man and a woman, one recounting his feelings and his love, even his passion for the other, until the other accepts or rejects this offer.

The Djiboutian song is also distinguished by the "Gouux", a deep and sensual voice which highlights the artist's passion for his work.

Overview

Djibouti is a multiethnic country. The two largest ethnic groups are the Somali and the Afar. There are also a number of Arab, Ethiopian and European (French and Italian) residents. Traditional Afar music resembles the folk music of other parts of the Horn of Africa such as Ethiopia; it also contains elements of Arabic music. The history of Djibouti is recorded in the poetry and songs of its nomadic people, and goes back thousands of years to a time when the peoples of Djibouti traded hides and skins for the perfumes and spices of ancient Egypt, India and China. Afar oral literature is also quite musical. It comes in many varieties, including songs for weddings, war, praise and boasting.

Somalis have a rich musical heritage centered on traditional Somali folklore. Most Somali songs are pentatonic; that is, they only use five pitches per octave in contrast to a heptatonic (seven note) scale such as the major scale. At first listen, Somali music might be mistaken for the sounds of nearby regions such as Ethiopia, Sudan or the Arabian Peninsula, but it is ultimately recognizable by its own unique tunes and styles. Modern Djiboutian popular music can be traced back to the late 1940s, Somali songs are usually the product of collaboration between lyricists (midho), songwriters (laxan), and singers (codka or "voice"). Balwo is a Somali musical style centered on love themes that is popular in Djibouti.

The national anthem of Djibouti is "Djibouti", adopted in 1977 with words by Aden Elmi and music by Abdi Robleh. "Miniature poetry", invented by a truck driver named Abdi Deeqsi, is well known in Djibouti; these are short poems (balwo), mostly concerning love and passion. They perform music and dance from two of Djibouti's main ethnic groups (Somali, Afar), they feature regularly on Djiboutian radio and television shows and perform as representatives of Djiboutian culture around the world. This festival draws performers from all over the country, and live recordings of headliner acts have proved popular with international audiences. Among the best-known performers are the Dinkara and Aïdarous. The government sponsors several organizations dedicated to the of traditional culture and dance.

Djiboutian traditional instruments include the tanbura, bowl lyre and oud.

Music institutions:

The first radio station in Djibouti to air popular Djibouti music was (ORTF) Radio based in Djibouti. It started broadcasting in 1940 in French, Somali, Afar and Arabic. Djiboutian music is now regularly broadcast on the state-run Radio Television of Djibouti.

List of Djiboutian Musicians:

Ahmed Mohamed Aman (Amanda)

Ali Abazid,

Fatouma Mansour, and

Deeqa Ahmed

Source: www.triposo.com

OONI RE-ECHOES YORUBA UNITY AS EKITI, MOBA, AWORI INDIGENES VISIT IFE, THEIR ANCESTRAL HOME

The Arole Oduduwa & Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, on Saturday re-echoed the need for descendants of Oduduwa, Yoruba in particular to be united as members of one big family from the same source in Ile-Ife.

Ooni Ogunwusi made the call at his Ile Oodua Palace, Ile-Ife, while playing host to indigenes of Otun-Ekiti and descendants of Olofin Ogunfunminire, who visited Ile-Ife to reunite with their root.

While establishing that all towns and settlements across Yorubaland have their roots in Ife, Ooni Ogunwusi noted that objective research has equally revealed that the Yoruba people of South-West Nigeria have the oldest DNA, which is about 120,000 years.

"There is nothing like Yoruba in Ifa corpus, it is like an alias given to us. We are all from Ile-Ife, we are ara'fe. Scientifically it has been proven that only the Yorubas that have the ghost DNA which gave the emergence to the likes of the sickle cell over 90 per cent of sickle cell history and genealogy is within us and our forbearance call them Abiku. The spirit and reincarnation of ghost spirit. You can hardly find that in the world.

"At some point, we once lived together as one big happy family and the likes of Oore of Otun played a pivotal role as the spokesperson of Oduduwa, our progenitor, the thinking and thinktank. We started the Parliamentary system.

"The meaning of Ajero is the Parliamentary structure where you debate so this formed part of the things we are re-establishing today. We are reestablishing everything in yoruba land today like the kingship system and the dynasty of Oyo, Benin, Ila and others.

"Ila championed the Igbomina people being headed by Ifagbamila one of the sons of Oduduwa." The Ooni explained.

While addressing newsmen, the Oore of Otun-Ekiti and Paramount Ruler of the Moba people in Ekiti, Lagos and Kwara states, Oba Adekunle Adeagbo, who led hundreds of his subjects to Ile-Ife, described the event as a historic homecoming for sons and daughters of Otun-Ekiti and other Moba towns across Yorubaland. He added that it was equally done to celebrate the ongoing five-year coronation anniversary of the Ooni of Ife who he is the overall head of the Oodua race worldwide.

"Historically like you have heard from our father, Ooni himself, we migrated from Ile-Ife to our current locations in Ekiti, Kwara and Lagos states. We decided to visit our home, Ile-Ife again to pay homage to my father the Ooni and reconnect with our ancestors.

"This is my first homecoming as the Oore of Otun-Ekiti and it won't be the last. The Ooni is a father to all of us in Yoruba land and we shall continue to rally round him. I am so happy and the only thing I can say is that I thank God almighty." Oba Adekunle said.

Similarly, the Olota of Ota, Lagos State, Oba Abdul-Ganiyy Obalenge  and other monarchs led several Awori chiefs and indigenes to Ife, during which the Ooni launched the Olofin Nations Assembly, to unite all Awori indigenes, who are descendants of Olofin Ogunfunminire.

The Ajero of Ijero-Ekiti, Oba Joseph Adewole, Akeran Onimoba of Moba in Lagos state, Oba Razak Aliu Adisa, Alagbado of Agbado, Ogun state, Oba Adeayo Syllon,  Aare OnaKakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams and Regent of Iseri-Olofin in Lagos state were among the traditional rulers in attendance.

Signed;

Comrade Moses Olafare,

Director, Media & Public Affairs,

Ooni's Palace.

THE UTMOST STUPIDITY NORMALIZED BY AFRICANS

When a French national cannot speak English, Africans respect him. When a Spanish can not speak English, Africans respect him. When a Chinese can not speak English, Africans respect him. When a Russian can not speak English, Africans respect him. When a Portuguese can not speak English Africans respect him.

But when an African can not speak English Africans consider him a joke, unintelligent, illiterate, dumb and stupid. That is the level or extent of damage we have suffered as a people. We use English as a yardstick to measure or judge the intelligence of our people, including children.

In our schools, children are made to believe they are stupid just because they cannot speak a language alien to their ancestral route.

Dear Africans put an end to this mental slavery. Teach your children their mother tongue and allow the locals to feel free in speaking their native languages without any stigma. Do not help the oppressors to extend their oppression.

If you come across this post, Share widely to Spread this message and enlighten an African. The people around you need to hear this. It is a collective effort. Don't break the chain of mental revolution. Thanks!

Copyrights: © 2020

Archival Painting

Painting of a woman breastfeeding his father

The painting of a young woman breastfeeding an old man in prison cell was sold for Euros 30 million. The painting may look perverse but the story behind it is from historical records. The poor man was sentenced to "death by starvation" for stealing a loaf of bread during the reign of Louis XIV in France. The woman was his only daughter and the only visitor allowed to visit his cell. She was allowed to visit him daily but frisked thoroughly such that no food was taken in.

When after 4 months, the man still survived with no weight loss, the authorities were perplexed and started spying on her in the cell and to their utter astonishment found her to breastfeed her father to the fullest sharing her baby's milk. The judges then realizing the compassion and love for her father, pardoned the father and set him free.

This piece of history brings into focus  how deep is a woman's compassion in our daily lives that men often tend to overlook.

Copyrights: © 2020

Life Without Black People

A very humorous and revealing story is told about a group of white people who were fed up with African Americans, so they joined together and wished themselves away. They passed through a deep dark tunnel and emerged in sort of a twilight zone where there is an America without black people. 

At first these white people breathed a sigh of relief. 

'At last', they said, 'no more crime, drugs, violence and welfare.' 

All of the blacks have gone! Then suddenly, reality set in. The 'NEW AMERICA' is not America at all - only a barren land.

1. There are very few crops that have flourished because the nation was built on a slave-supported system.

2. There are no cities with tall skyscrapers because Alexander Mils, a black man, invented the elevator, and without it, one finds great difficulty reaching higher floors.

3. There are few if any cars because Richard Spikes, a black man, invented the automatic gearshift, Joseph Gambol, also black, invented the Super Charge System for Internal Combustion Engines, and Garrett A. Morgan, a black man, invented the traffic signals.

4. Furthermore, one could not use the rapid transit system because its procurer was the electric trolley, which was invented by another black man, Albert R. Robinson.

5. Even if there were streets on which cars and a rapid transit system could operate, they were cluttered with paper because an African American, Charles Brooks, invented the street sweeper.

6. There were few if any newspapers, magazines and books because John Love invented the pencil sharpener, William Purveys invented the fountain pen, and Lee Barrage invented the Type Writing Machine and W. A. Love invented the Advanced Printing Press. They were all, you guessed it, Black.

7. Even if Americans could write their letters, articles and books, they would not have been transported by mail because William Barry invented the Postmarking and Canceling Machine, William Purveys invented the Hand Stamp and Philip Downing invented the Letter Drop.

8. The lawns were brown and wilted because Joseph Smith invented the Lawn Sprinkler and John Burr the Lawn Mower.

9. When they entered their homes, they found them to be poorly ventilated and poorly heated. You see, Frederick Jones invented the Air Conditioner and Alice Parker the Heating Furnace. Their homes were also dim. But of course, Lewis Lattimer later invented the Electric Lamp, Michael Harvey invented the lantern, and Granville T. Woods invented the Automatic Cut off Switch. Their homes were also filthy because Thomas W. Steward invented the Mop and Lloyd P. Ray the Dust Pan.

10. Their children met them at the door - barefooted, shabby, motley and unkempt.  But what could one expect? Jan E. Matzelinger invented the Shoe Lasting Machine, Walter Sammons invented the Comb, Sarah Boone invented the Ironing Board, and George T. Samon invented the Clothes Dryer.

11. Finally, they were resigned to at least have dinner amidst all of this turmoil. But here again, the food had spoiled because another Black Man, John Standard invented the refrigerator.

Now, isn't that something? What would this country be like without the contributions of Blacks, as African-Americans?

Martin Luther King, Jr. said, 'by the time we leave for work, millions of Americans have depended on the inventions from the minds of Blacks.'

Black history includes more than just slavery, Frederick Douglass, Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, and Marcus Garvey & W.E.B. Dubois.

Copyrights: © 2020

Public Holidays In North Korea

The biggest and important Festival in North Korea is 15th of April which is Kim Il Sung' birthday. It is called Day of the Sun. For some important years there will be military parade and during the festival students or citizen will have big dancing party on Kim Il Sung Square or Street. Most of female will wear Korean beautiful traditional dress . It is called Chima and Joggori . Explore North Korea Tour will have group tours and independent tour to North Korea during the Festival.

​Traditional Folk Holidays In North Korea:

​North Korea is very close to China some of traditional folk holidays are quite similar to Chinese traditional festival. 

Lunar New Year: (Similar like Chinese Spring Festival on lunar calendar 1st of January. It is the biggest Festival in China)  In North Korea Koreans use to greet their elders in the morning and play several folk games. Several dishes made of meat, vegetables and herbs are taken. Besides, the traditional New Year dishes such as rice cake soup, dumpling soup, pop- rice cake, glutinous rice crackers, fruit punch and sweet juice made from fermented rice are popular.

Chusok: (Chinese has this festival as well called Qingming on April the 5th. People go to the died relatives tombs to keep the graves tidy. On 15th of August Chinese lunar calender Chinese has Moon Festival for family members get together . On this date 15th lunar calender the moon is very big. People eating fruits and moon cake and drinking tea with family members together.)  

In DPRK August 15th by lunar calendar. An autumn holiday after harvesting. Koreans visit their forefathers' graves, keep the graves tidy and hold memorial services. They play tug-of - war. Varieties of rice food made of crops are popular.

Tano: (Chinese has the similar festival on Lunar calendar 5th of May it is called DUANWU Festival. Chinese will eat steamed rice wrapped with special plant leaves. There will be boats racing match show in some cities of China.)

May 5th by lunar calendar. A spring holiday after sowing and transplanting. The weather is so fine that people go out to play colorful folk games. Especially Moran Hill situated on the bank of the River Taedong in Pyongyang is crowed with holiday makers. Barbecuing in Moran Hill is spectacular. The fragrant rice cake mixed with wormwood pasted and lettuce- wrapped rice are special dishes prepared for this day. 

• North Korea Public Holidays

• New Years Day : 1st - January 

• Birth Day of Kim Jong Il : 16th - February

• Day of the Sun (Birth day of Kim Il Sung) : 15th - April

• Foundation Day of The Korean People's Army:25th - April 

• May Day Festival: 1st - May 

• Victorious Day: 27th - July 

• National Liberation Day : 15th - August

• Foundation of the DPRK : 9th - September 

• Foundation of the Worker's Party of Korea: 10th -October 

• Day of the DPRK Socialist Constitution: 27th - December.

Febraury 16th

Brithday of great General Kim Jong Il, Juche 31 (1942). It is the greatest national holiday together with the Day of the Sun. Kimjongilia Show, the international Figure-Skating Festival for Peaktusan Prize and other funchtions are held in Pyongyang.

April 15th

Day of the Sun. Brithday of great President Kim Il Sung, Juche 1 (1912). The era of Juche year was inaugrated with 1912 as the first year. On this greatest national holiday, international events are also held including Kimilsungia Show and the April Spring Friendship Art Festival.

Source: www.explorenorthkorea.com