Electronic transportation devices are everywhere in New York City now – and from daily commuting to food delivery, they are revolutionizing how we get around. E-bikes and e-scooters are a convenient and low-cost alternative to cars. They help reduce congestion on our streets and make our city cleaner and greener. Tens of thousands of our delivery workers rely on them for their livelihoods, and we all rely on them when we have goods delivered. E-bikes are here to stay, and our city wants to make sure they are safe and reliable for all - both on the street and when they are being stored and recharged. While most of the e-bikes and e-scooters in our city are safe, there are some that do not meet safety standards and contain uncertified lithium-ion batteries. These faulty devices are causing fires and explosions, putting New Yorkers and our first responders in danger. Last week, the City Council and... Read more
Flavour, the Nigerian born musician has chosen New York City to celebrate the release his new single: “My Sweetie”
Flavour the Nigerian born musician has celebrated the release on September 21,2022 of his new single called “My Sweetie” at the POD Hotel in Times Square. The event has brought together fans and New York City show biz world in the same place to enjoy listening to the artist musician of “Sawa sawa sawale.” It was an opportunity for them to interact with the artist and asked him some relevant questions that relate to his music. “I want to use my God given talent to be a blessing for others,” said Flavour also known as (aka) Flavour N’abania to depict what music is about for him. Flavour who started his musical career at the age of 13, remembered how difficult it was at the beginning. “I come from a very poor background family,” he said. So, his mother did not want him to be a singer. To her, music was... Read more
Guineans Succeeding in America hosts second annual Women’s Conference virtually
New York City — Guineans Succeeding in America (GSA), a nonprofit organization that empowers the Guinean-American community through education and professional development, will be holding its fifth annual GSA conference on Saturday, March 27, 2021 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. This year, the conference is taking place virtually due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Every year, the conference seeks to not only address the issues and challenges that Guinean women face but also inform, inspire, empower and build a network of women who are actively involved in bringing positive change to their community. The conference aims to bring together students, job seekers and young and experienced professionals to network with and motivate one another. The theme for this year’s conference is “Navigating the workplace as a woman.” This year, the conference is taking place virtually due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. “This year, Guineans Succeeding in America seeks to... Read more
Embassy of Burkina Faso in Washington DC and Azaaba give the opportunity to some Americans to know better Burkina Faso and its people
Azaaba, a nonprofit organization in collaboration with the Embassy of Burkina Faso in the United of America, has organized on March 6, 2021, a zoom meeting, which was focused on African Americans who wanted to be reconnected with their root in Burkina Faso. The organization has been doing that for a while for African Americans who after a DNA test, were identified as Burkinabe. It was the turn last week for those who were identified as belonging to Samo people, one of the more than sixty ethnic groups who are living in Burkina Faso and the theme was: the Samo people of Burkina Faso. It has been a long time Antonio Williams, an American was looking for a way to know where exactly in Africa his ancestors came from. After a DNA test, he has found out that his family story starts In Burkina Faso, a country located... Read more
Attorney Pierre Gooding: “I have chosen a life in politics to help my community”
Pierre Gooding is running for the second time for City Council in District 9, Harlem. Born and raised in Harlem, Mr. Gooding who is an attorney, a teacher, and a politician, thinks Harlem his neighborhood still struggles in several ways and one of that issue is called injustice. Defender of the window and the orphan, Mr. Gooding wanted to take the fight beyond to help his community in a macro level. African Journal met him for you. African Journal (AJ): Can you introduce yourself in a few words? Pierre Gooding ( PG): My name is Pierre Gooding and I am an attorney, Deacon and former teacher taking my second run for City Council in District 9, Harlem. I was born in the Grant Houses and am proud to advocate for my community. AJ: You describe yourselves as a teacher, attorney, and politician. What will be your choice If you have... Read more
Rihanna is back with a new lingerie extravaganza for Amazon Prime Video – “Savage X Fenty Show Vol. 2.”
https://twitter.com/i/status/1311685297663606784 The pop icon's event celebrating her Fall 2020 collection debuts on the streaming service October 2 and features an array of models and guests including Rosalia, Demi Moore, Paris Hilton, Irina Shayk, Christian Combs and Willow Smith. Models of all shapes, sizes and skin colors will showcase lingerie that offers consumers extravagant lines at affordable price points. Rihanna says her latest collection – a follow up to last year's Savage X Fenty range – is about empowerment and inclusivity. "I want to have representation and aspects that are outside of that where women aren't usually projected as sexy, but they are, they're sexy, and they need to know that," she said. "They need to be validated about that no matter what size they are." she stressed. Read more
Census 2020: Census takers will knock at your door if you have not yet completed the census
U.S. Census Bureau enumerators, commonly known as “census takers,” started going door-to-door to the homes of New Yorkers who have not yet completed the census. While census takers are well trained to help all residents complete the census, New Yorkers can avoid a knock at their door by simply going to my2020census.gov and filling out the census in just a few minutes. The census can also be completed over the phone at 1-844-330-2020. Additional phone numbers for direct service available in 13 languages are included below. We need all New Yorkers to fill out the census now before the new September 30th deadline. Also included below are answers to the most frequently asked questions about this door-knocking period, also known as Non-Response Follow-Up (NRFU). You can also find a video guide from the U.S. Census Bureau about the Non-Response Follow Up period in different languages here. Additional 2020 Census language guides and videos are available... Read more
Covid – 19: Large Events Are Canceled Through September 30
Under the Mayor’s Executive Order, large events requiring a city events permit will be canceled through September 30 as the City works to prioritize open spaces for public use. The City will not issue a permit for any event in a location that interferes with the Open Streets or Open Restaurants programs. Permits will also be denied for all events larger than one block, stage/video events that require amplification, street fairs, and events in parks that may unreasonably diminish public use. The City will refund or defer fees paid in connection with a denied permit. Events that do not conflict with Open Streets or Open Restaurant areas and are for locations, one city block or smaller, can still apply for a permit. Demonstrations, religious events, and press conferences will be exempt from the Mayor’s Executive Order and may receive permits. Keeping New Yorkers Cool and Safe This Summer The first... Read more
Burkinabè’s woman accuses her white’s husband of human trafficking
Ms. A. B has declared before the American jurisdictions that she was sold as an animal by her uncle and by the village chief to a white American citizen and who, according to her, forcibly married her. At a press conference on June 18, 2020 in Columbia County in New York State, A. B has explained how things have unfold. Indeed, it all started in 2001. According to A.B, a White man landed in a village in Est – Center of Burkina Faso where A. B lived with her family. The white man contacted A.B's uncle and the village chief, A.B's father having passed away. And this, after a call from A.B’s cousin who lives in Germany. According to A.B, the cousin is the friend of the white man and he is who has ordered A.B's marriage to the white man. At the time A.B was 18 – years -... Read more
George Floyd : Thousands protesters clashed with police in Harlem and many were arrested
Protesters took the streets this morning in Harlem and across New York City to demand justice for George Floyd. A group called Harlem’s Solidarity for George Floyd has initiated a peaceful march and thousands gathered at 125 Street and Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard defying social distance restrictions as protesters clashed with the police and many were arrested. “Justice for George Floyd, Black lives matter, we can’t breathe, no justice no peace, NYPD police suck my d…” protesters chanted. Protesters led by three leaders blocked for awhile 125 street and 7th avenue before they walked down to 111 street. They took 111 street down to FDR Drive, but they came across with several police officers at Madison avenue where police officers with bicycles and motorcycles blocked both the avenue and the street. Protesters stopped to think about what to do. They were those who said to find another way and... Read more
Sign up for free online English classes for immigrants
In response to COVID-19, the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs’ We Speak NYC program, a free English language learning program that provides civic-focused instruction through videos centered on topics relevant to immigrant New Yorkers, will be offering online conversation classes. Participants can register to be a part of an online community and have an opportunity to safely meet people, learn about NYC resources that are still available in light of COVID- 19, and practice their English conversation skills. We Speak NYC 2nd Cycle of Online Classes Start Today! Register Here to sign up for a class, get reminders, and educational materials, or click here to check out different class times and drop in! Classes are led by trained facilitators and encourage learner participation - safe space to practice and make mistakes. Classes are intended for intermediate English language learners. Read more
Covid – 19 : If your child has a persistent fever …
Below you will find important updates and resources from the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs and the City of New York. Pediatric Multi-System Inflammatory Syndrome (PMIS) Update NYC families: if your child has a persistent fever, rash, abdominal pain, vomiting or other symptoms, call your doctor immediately. If you don’t have a doctor, call 311. So far there have been 110 cases of multi-system inflammatory syndrome have been detected in children in NYC hospitals. Antibody Testing Update The City of New York will offer free antibody tests to 70,000 New Yorkers. 1,000 tests will be given at each site every day by appointment only. Five sites have been selected to perform these tests: Bronx:Morrisania- 4006 Third Avenue Brooklyn:East NY - 127 Pennsylvania Avenue Manhattan:Upper Manhattan - 21 Old Broadway Staten Island:Concord - St. John’s Villa 57 Cleveland Place Queens:Long Island City - 34-09 Queens Boulevard You can make an appointment through nyc.bioreference.com/antibodysurvey. If you... Read more
African Diaspora for Biden : A political movement to negotiate and to vote
African Diaspora for Biden has held in April 26, 2020 a teleconference meeting to lay out a strategy for the election of the democrat candidate Joe Biden and to address their preoccupations to one of Biden surrogates. A thousand of people from the 50 states of the United States of America have attended that very first meeting with a bold commitment not only to make their voices heard but also to support Joe Biden. [video width="480" height="256" mp4="https://theafricanjournalonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/video-biden.mp4"][/video] “This meeting is about to put our fate in our own hand,” said Chijike Ndukwu one of the initiators of the meeting. “Africans contribute a lot to this country, the only thing we do not have is a political power, a possibility to have a seat,” he added as he enumerated some statics showing how much Africans have been devoted to the United States of America. African Diaspora for Biden is indeed... Read more
Covid – 19 : 2 top French doctors said on live TV that coronavirus vaccines should be tested on poor Africans, leaving viewers horrified
Two highly respected French doctors discussed on live television how a new COVID-19vaccine under development should be first tested in Africa, "where there are no masks, no treatment, nor intensive care." One of them, Jean-Paul Mira, even compared Africans to prostitutes who were the focus of past AIDS studies. "We tried things on prostitutes because they are highly exposed and do not protect themselves," he said. Several African soccer stars who played in Europe, including the former Chelsea star Didier Drogba and the former Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o, tweeted their outrage at the two medics' remarks A discussion between two top French doctors on live TV left viewers horrified when they proposed that Africa should become a giant laboratory for coronavirus vaccine testing because the continent lacked the resources to defend against COVID-19. In the segment broadcast on the French TV channel LCI, Jean-Paul Mira and Camille Locht raised the idea of testing... Read more
IRS Gives Stimulus Check Distribution Details, Says Payments To Begin Within Three Weeks
The Treasury Department and IRS today announced that distribution of economic impact payments will begin in the next three weeks and that they will be distributed automatically, with no action required for most people. See IR 2020-61. However, some seniors and others who typically do not file returns will need to submit a simple tax return to receive the stimulus payment. Who is eligible for the economic impact payment? Tax filers with adjusted gross income up to $75,000 for individuals and up to $150,000 for married couples filing joint returns will receive the full payment. For filers with income above those amounts, the payment amount is reduced by $5 for each $100 above the $75,000/$150,000 thresholds. Single filers with income exceeding $99,000 and $198,000 for joint filers with no children are not eligible. Eligible taxpayers who filed tax returns for either 2019 or 2018 will automatically receive an economic impact payment of... Read more
The African Empowerment Project : Actualize and institutionalize progress within the African diaspora
The African Empowerment Project, which was launched last year is striving to bring more helpful resources to African community as it sets several goals to fulfill its mission. “We need to take first care of ourselves here in America and then think about those who are in our native countries,” said Abdourahamane Diallo who initiates the project as covid - 19 the unforgettable pandemic hits merciless New York and the rest of the world. The African Empowerment Project is indeed “a collective effort of Africans who are determined to actualize and institutionalize progress within the diaspora in New York City.” Its four (4) core goals match with its mission statement that “ aim to actualize and institutionalize progress within the African diaspora through initiatives that address political & socio-economic needs.” Here are those goals: Ensuring that all Africans participate in the census 2020. This will position our African community to... Read more
Coronavirus in New York : 32,308 positive coronavirus cases and 678 related fatalities.
New data that the city’s Health Department released Sunday morning shows the coronavirus pandemic continuing to take a horrific toll on the five boroughs. Approximately 3,150 new cases and 161 deaths occurred in the last day, the data revealed. As of 9:30 a.m. March 29, there were 32,308 positive coronavirus cases and 678 related fatalities. Nearly 24 hours earlier, the Health Department accounted for 29,158 positive cases and 517 deaths. In little more than 24 hours, the number of coronavirus patients went up 10.4%, while fatalities rose 31.1%. Queens now has more than 10,000 confirmed coronavirus patients and continues to be the city’s hot zone in the outbreak. The 9:30 a.m. March 29 numbers revealed that the “World’s Borough” has 10,373 cases, 219 of which were fatal. Brooklyn has the second-highest coronavirus cases in the city with 8,451 infections and 168 deaths, followed by the Bronx with 6,145 infections and... Read more
Capital Preparatory Bronx Charter School To Open In August
A new school in the Bronx seeks to hire teachers for the upcoming school year as it prepares to open its door for children. Capital Preparatory Bronx Charter School will begin its academic year in August 2020 with 6th and 7th graders, with the lottery deadline for parents to apply set for April 1st. “We can design a school that is so acutely aligned to our community’s needs,” said Dr. Steve Perry, explaining how important the institution is. A school of such high stature needs great teachers. Isaiah Brown, the Founding Principal for the Capital Prep, refers to their educators as illuminators stating, “illuminators spark interest in the minds of young persons and therefore inspire them to do great things.” The school is looking for 10 illuminators and administrators for all subjects. Being bilingual in foreign languages such as Arabic, French, Spanish, and Bengali, is a huge plus. “One of... Read more
U.S Ambassador in Burkina Faso Andrew Young tests positive for coronavirus
“I was tested positive in coronavirus,” said in March 22, 2020, Ambassador Young who has indicated that the community in the Embassy will go into quarantine and employees will keep providing services to citizens, and the effort to sustain Burkina Faso Faso in the fight against coronavirus will continue as well, news outlets in Burkina Faso have reported. Four ( 4 ) ministers from Burkina Faso’s government including the Minister of Foreign Affair, Alpha Barry had also tested positive for coronavirus. 75 people had tested positive for coronavirus in Burkina Faso and 4 people among them died. Last week the ambassador of Italy in Burkina Faso had also tested positive for coronavirus. The African Journal Read more
Tik Tok is quietly snapping up creatives from Youtube and Instagram for a full Africa roll – out
Early this year, the short video app TikTok joined Nairobi Garage, a leading coworking space in Nairobi’s Kilimani district. The Chinese company behind the world’s fastest-growing social media app had already been holding “creator sessions” and meetups around the city in 2019, urging creative young Kenyans to learn about the benefits of joining the “fun, cool short video platform”. Last October it partnered with Chinese phone maker Transsion’s Infinix brand in Kenya with a hashtag campaign called #WeAreHot to boost a new phone model but also raise awareness of the app. TikTok has been investing quietly, but significantly, to usher in a new age of influencers in Africa. It’s part of a concerted strategy for the youth-friendly app to get a major foothold in the world’s youngest continent and home to some of the leading global pop culture movers across music and film especially with the recent rise of Afrobeats and... Read more
African Pop – Up Festival is about supporting one another and African culture
African Pop – Up Festival one of the New York biggest cultural events was held in February 22, 2020 in Harlem as New Yorkers came together not only to celebrate African culture, and food, but also to support African small businesses. “Our goal is to highlight our culture and business and empower small business,” Akin Akinsanya Founder & Executive Producer of NY African Restaurant Week, said. Inside the hall there were multitude of people; they lined up to taste all kind of food; some sat down listing to music as the DJ increased the decibel; other just danced. A room was set apart for vendors. They were selling clothes, jewelries, cosmetics. I stood up by a stand. “Do you want me to take your picture mom?” I asked a beautiful mother who was selling traditional clothes. “Yes sure, this is a great day,” she said with a broad smile. ... Read more
New York City Census 2020 Bronx Media Roundtable: Get yourselves be counted, why is it so important?
New York City census 2020 in partnership with New York City , New York libraries, and community groups, has held in February 20, 2020 in the Bronx Kingsbridge library a media roundtable to discuss about the census activity in the Bronx and the importance to be counted. Seven panelists from Mayor’s office of immigrant affairs, New York census 2020, New York library, and from diverse community groups, have explain to the media how and why every single person should be counted. They also talk about the work community leaders have done to mobilize community groups. Why should we be counted? We should be numbered because “the decennial census determines how hundreds of billions of dollars in federal funds are distributed every year for key programs and services; the census also determines each state’s fair share of representation in Congress, as well as how local, state, and federal legislative district lines... Read more
African Pop – Up Festival 2020 Celebrating Black History Month in Harlem: Don’t Miss It
African Pop - up festival 2020 is just coming up with big surprises as we are celebrating “Black History Month.” Let’s our mind be etched by a unique day: Saturday February 22, 2020 in Harlem, we will enjoy “the sight, the sounds, and the taste of Africa.” This is a panoramic view of what you will expect if you just come out: ” Food tastings by chefs and restaurants, chef’s competition, special Afrobeats, and musical performances. Vendors offering special prices in honor of Black History Month. Business panel empowering up and coming entrepreneurs…” Let’s put it in a simple and easy way: We are “gonna” shop, eat, listen to music, and dance !!! Shopping: “Over 20 vendors/entrepreneurs across Fashion” will be there. Besides that, organizers will welcome “wellness, art, design, ad beauty - with vendors offering special prices in honor of Black History Month.” Eating: There will be “ over 12... Read more
Africa: Facebook Removes Misleading HIV Drug Ads After Outcry
New York — HIV prevention medication has been deemed "highly effective" by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the leading national public health institute in the United States Facebook said on Monday it had removed some ads that contained misleading information about HIV prevention drugs following an outcry from activists, health experts and U.S. lawmakers. The ads linked the drugs, which are known as PrEP and designed to prevent HIV, to severe bone and kidney damage and were placed by personal-injury attorneys. LGBT+ advocacy groups have for months been pressuring the U.S. company to remove the ads, pointing to a multitude of research showing that the medication is safe. Facebook initially declined, before doing so this weekend. "After a review, our independent fact-checking partners have determined some of these ads in question mislead people about the effects of Truvada," spokeswoman Devon Kearns told the Thomson Reuters Foundation, referring to... Read more
Guinea opposition rejects Conde’s ‘constitutional coup d’etat’ plans
Guinean opposition coalition have denounced what it calls a constitutional coup d’etat, after President Alpha Condé announced plans for a constitutional amendment, on Thursday (December 19). His opponents insist the move is part of a ploy for Condé to seek a third term in 2020, which the current constitution prohibits. The proposed draft sets the terms at six years instead of five renewable once, and does not state whether he would be allowed to run. Thursday’s announcement by 81-year-old Conde has further provoked Guineans who have recently staged weekly protests against a possible third term. The demonstrations have left at least 20 civilians dead and dozens arrested. Initially hailed for ushering in change when he came to power in 2010, Alpha Conde has cracked down on the opposition in recent years. Read more
Wiping out the daughters: Burkina Faso’s controversial mosquito experiment
A radical experiment to genetically modify a strain of mosquito in order to stop them breeding malaria-carrying daughters is one of the latest efforts to tackle the deadly scourge of malaria At 6.30am five-year-old Osman Balama and his mother reach the state hospital of Bobo-Dioulasso, the second-largest city in Burkina Faso. He hasn’t been feeling well for a few days and his mother is worried that he has contracted malaria. The waiting room is already full of mothers and grandmothers with young children on their laps, all with the same tired look as Osman. “The rainy season has started,” says Sami Palm, head of the clinic. “That means more mosquitos. I’m certain that almost everyone here has malaria.” Two red lines on the detection strip confirm malaria. “He doesn’t need to stay in the hospital, because he isn’t vomiting and isn’t extremely sick,” Palm says. Osman is sent home with medication... Read more
DCAS EXAM SCHEDULE – NOVEMBER 2018
The Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) is accepting applications for the following civil service exams. So don't delay, apply today! Apply for exams online: Go to the DCAS Online Application System (OASys) at www.nyc.gov/examsforjobs and follow the onscreen application instructions for electronically submitting your application and payment, and completing any required forms. If you do not have access to a computer, visit one of our Computer-based Testing & Applications Centers (CTACs) to use our computers to submit your application (see below). OPEN COMPETITIVE - Exams Open to the Public CALL CENTER REPRESENTATIVE, EXAM NO. 9021 CHILD AND FAMILY SPECIALIST, EXAM NO. 9022 CLAIM SPECIALIST, EXAM NO. 9023 ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN, EXAM NO. 9024 PLASTERER, EXAM NO. 9025 PLASTERER (NYC H+H), EXAM NO. 9081 - CANCELED POLICE COMMUNICATIONS TECHNICIAN, EXAM NO. 9079 PROMOTION - Exams for City Employees Only ... Read more
Interview: “Prof Boukary Sawadogo is talking about his new and second book
By : Bazona Barnabé Bado
Do you like African cinema, or do you want to know better about it? You have the good news: “African Film Studies: An Introduction” is a book that will allow you to explore and understand Africa through the lenses of African filmmakers. Dr. Boukary Sawadogo the author of that new book through this interview is talking about the book he took three years to write. African Film Studies: An Introduction is the title of your new book and the second one you’ve written. Yes, it was published by Routledge in late September 2018. My first book, Les Cinémas francophones ouest-africains, 1990-2005, was published by Harmattan in 2013. Why did you decide to write a book that deals specifically with African film? I realized there is a great need for a teaching and learning resource for African cinema. There are plenty of scholarly books on African cinema but almost no textbooks... Read more
DCAS EXAM SCHEDULE – OCTOBER 2018
Here are some exams for the month of October 2018 The Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) is accepting applications for the following civil service exams. So don't delay, apply today! Apply for exams online: Go to the DCAS Online Application System (OASys) at www.nyc.gov/examsforjobs and follow the onscreen application instructions for electronically submitting your application and payment, and completing any required forms. If you do not have access to a computer, visit one of our Computer-based Testing & Applications Centers (CTACs) to use our computers to submit your application (see below). OPEN COMPETITIVE - Exams Open to the Public ADDICTION COUNSELOR (NYC H+H), EXAM NO. 9016 - POSTPONED ASSOCIATE CORRECTIONAL COUNSELOR , EXAM NO. 9017 - POSTPONED ASSOCIATE PROJECT MANAGER, EXAM NO. 9003 ... Read more
President Trump wants to end immigration benefits, and a judge says no
A federal judge’s ruling blocking a Trump administration order to end immigration benefits for nearly 300,000 foreign nationals is the latest in a series of judicial setbacks for the Trump administration's immigration policies. Federal District Judge Edward Chen late Wednesday blocked the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) order to end temporary protected status (TPS) that allows citizens of Sudan, El Salvador, Haiti and Nicaragua to live and work in the United States, raising hopes for activists who have fought to make the program permanent. The preliminary injunction granted by Chen, an appointee of former President Obama, follows a trend of court reversals that have slowed the administration's proposed overhaul of American immigration laws. The administration's first judicial setbacks on immigration came weeks into Trump's presidency, as a New York court stopped in January of 2017 the application of the first version of a travel ban that blocked immigrants and visitors from seven majority-Muslim countries. After... Read more
FONY 2018: The culture of Burkina Faso once again was in the heart of the event
By : Bazona Barnabé Bado
The fourth edition of the Festival Ouaga New York (FONY), which was held and stretched from September 1st through September 4th, in New York is done. For four days, the FONY allowed the Burkinabé to revisit their culture and the Americans to better discover the culture of the country of upright people. The theme of the FONY, which is growing and renovating even if it still needs to improve, was “culture and education.” “The festival brought together artists from Africa, America, and Europe,” said Gerald Koala aka Kadafi who is the coordinator of the FONY. According to Mr. Koala, the FONY since its creation has allowed about twenty Burkinabe artists to land to America. "It's one of our goal,” he said. For this edition, there were three artists of the older generation from Burkina Faso and who flew to New York to make the culture of Burkina great. They kept... Read more
AZAABAN and African Ancestry gave opportunity to seven African Americans to reconnect with their ancestral land, Burkina Faso.
By : Bazona Barnabé Bado
A welcome ceremony was held in August 5, 2018 to honor seven African Americans who after a DNA testing found their roots in Burkina Faso their ancestral land. The ceremony was initiated by AZAABAN a nonprofit organization, which is providing the best approaches for African Americans to know about the historical background of their ancestors -their origins, their ethnic group, and their culture. - The seven African Americans who were welcome by their respective ethnic groups living in New York, were Lyela, Kasenna, Samogo, and Bissa. “We must welcome them and accept them with all our heart,” said Tene Ouedraogo/ Ouele, the founder of AZAABAN, which stands for “welcome” in Kasenna language. [caption id="attachment_1579" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Tene Ouedraogo/ Ouele, the founder of AZAABAN[/caption] Without African Ancestry a company, which “is committed to providing a unique service to the black community by working daily to improve the cultural, emotional, physical,... Read more
Running a business: “It is our duty to build our community,” Saeed Hassan president of ABS Travel, said
By : Bazona Barnabé Bado
The president of ABS Travel was in July 26, 2018 in Brooklyn to meet with a group of teenagers from age 14 to 15 to give them the basic information they need to run a business and to succeed in a world that requires more competition. Saeed Hassan who has been run ABS Travel for 25 years, was confident as he stood before the youth students and taught them how to be a successful man and woman. “Be strong inside of you, speak out, express yourselves, success comes then,” said Hassan who came to the meeting with his son who is majoring in finance with two minors. “ABS Travel, and staff believe in social responsibility,” said Dr. Marie Claudine Mukamabano, sales and marketing Africa. “ You are the most important asset we have, we want to hear from you, talk to you and support you to become successful in your... Read more
Bronx Economic Snapshot: Bronx Borough president announced $ 1million, the AAC chairman wanted African’s immigrant voices to be heard.
By : Bazona Barnabé Bado
The New York State Comptroller held a press conference, which took place in July 20, 2018 in the Bronx inside a deli to talk about the economic Snapshot of the Bronx. “The Bronx has made great progress and has come a long way,” Thomas P. DiNapoli the New York State comptroller said. According to the report, the population of the Bronx increased by 26 percent between 1980 and 20017, reaching almost 1.5 million people, only slightly less than the record set in 1970. It also indicates that immigrants are growing presence in the Bronx. They are indeed, make up 37% of the total population. They are also a large part of the borough’s economic success, making up nearly half of the work force and 60 % of self – employed entrepreneurs. The report also indicates that, three – quarter of all immigrants in the Bronx are from Latin America. The... Read more
Barack Obama shares the three questions you need to ask before choosing a life partner
Barack and Michelle Obama’s relationship is routinely exalted as the type of union to which we all should aspire. The former president not only showers his former first lady with praise in speech after speech, but frequently shares tender messages to her on social media. If you were pondering the secret to their 25 years of wedded bliss, a major hint can be found in the three questions Mr. Obama recommends people wondering whether they have found Mr. or Ms. Right ask themselves. In his new book Yes, we (Still) Can, Dan Pfeiffer, Mr. Obama’s former communications director, shares a revealing conversation he had with his boss on his last day back in 2015. As the pair discussed future, Mr. Pfieffer opened about his relationship. “So, are you guys moving together? This is the one, huh?” he recounted Mr. Obama asking him. Mr. Obama is then said to have imparted the pearls of wisdom. “Here’s the advice I give... Read more
Islamist terrorist groups are turning their attention to West Africa
By : Washington Post
DAKAR, Senegal — The epicenter of jihadism in Africa has long been the Sahel, the region that skirts the southern fringe of the Sahara Desert. Islamist groups such as Boko Haram have used the vast and relatively empty area to hide, recruit and organize. Now the threat is increasingly spilling over into nearby countries. Terrorist attacks struck Ivory Coast in 2016 and have occurred in Burkina Faso repeatedly since then. Multiple suspected terrorists have been arrested recently in the West African nations of Guinea, Guinea-Bissau and Senegal. The latter, historically one of West Africa's most stable nations, is now holding its largest-ever terrorism trial, with 29 people accused of trying to create an Islamic State-style caliphate in the region. Al-Qaeda affiliates in the area have also issued a new wave of threats against Western interests in West Africa, with one group identifying Senegal and Guinea, which have soldiers in a U.N. peacekeeping mission... Read more
African Heritage Month (AHM) Is Official : Mory Kouyate chairman of AAC explains the concept
The first edition of the African Heritage Month ( AHM ) will be held in September 2018. The decision has been made as leaders of the African Advisory Council ( AAC) met in June 21st , 2018 with the Bronx Borough President Rubén Díaz Jr. “We went in with two requests. A budget and the official Celebration of the African Heritage Month. The Bronx President agreed to one out of the two proposals. We shook hands to make September African Heritage Month,” Mory Kouyate Chairman of AAC said. The Bronx Borough President Rubén Díaz Jr. also tweeted about it: “I had a great meeting today with the members of my African Advisory Council! Thank you for caring so much and being so committed to a better Bronx and New York City.” The African Journal asked Kouyate four questions to decrypt the concept of the African Heritage Month. Here are... Read more
World Refugee Day, African Communities Together has mobilized hundreds of protesters
By : Bazona Barnabé Bado
World Refugee Day, which is held every year on June 20th was celebrated in New York in a particular way as many organizations took the streets to express solidarity and show support to families forced to flee their countries because of wars, and other catastrophes, and to denounce the Trump administration’s policies on immigration. African Communities Together, which initiated the march along with other organizations was able to mobilize hundreds of people who marched from Bryant Park – 42nd street and 5th avenue to Trump World Tower, which is build face to the United Nations, and then to Dag Hammarskjold plaza, on 47th street and 1st avenue, to express their outrage. “No hate, no fear, refugees are welcome here,” the crowd sang as they marched brandishing placards, which displayed words that support immigrants or refugees.The particularity of World Refugee Day this year was that it was celebrated in... Read more
Mohamed Koanda makes history in the United States of America
By : Bazona Barnabe Bado
A Burkina Faso ( West Africa ) young man has made history as he received an award for the highest Cumulative GPA for the Educational Opportunity program ( EOP) as a senior at The State University of New York University (SUNY) / Buffalo. Mohamed Koanda 23, majored in computer information system, with mathematics as minor, graduated with a GPA of 3.92 at SUNY Buffalo State College, has made his native country, Burkina Faso proud of him. “Congratulations to Mohamed Koanda, our fellow citizens who is a computer system engineer, and who graduated as honor student at State University of New York (SUNY) / Buffalo. I am immensely proud of him,” Rock Marc Christian Kabore, president of Burkina Faso said in a tweet. [caption id="attachment_1020" align="alignleft" width="640"] Mohamed Koanda[/caption] Mohamed who was born in Burkina Faso in West Africa, arrives in New York in 2011. He was 16 years – old... Read more
The Annual cultural evening aims to celebrate cultural diversity
By : Bazona Barnabe Bado
The 8th Annual Cultural Evening was held on June 1st , 2018 in the premises of Public School 4 (P.S.4) in Manhattan. This annual event, which brought West African artists to perform and share African Cultures, was organized by USA – Mali Charitable Association of New York in partnership with P.S. 4 and Malian Cultural Center. “We organized each year the cultural evening to give the opportunity to kids to learn African cultures,” Assetou Sy/ Traore president of USA – Mali Charitable Association of New York said. Teachers, students, parents, including authorities from New York were there enjoying students dancing African dances, and speaking French, and hearing African music. [caption id="attachment_1013" align="aligncenter" width="4272"] Sy family[/caption] It was P.S. 4 “After School” Latino students who first and one by one came to the platform speaking in French and English what they want to be when they grow up. “You are Africans... Read more
African communities forum: believe in ourselves was the message…
By : Bazona Barnabe Bado
“African communities forum and resource fair: mobilizing community through government engagement” was the theme of that second forum, which was organized in May 10, by New York City, Commission on Human Rights and held at Monroe College. “ There is a huge increasing among Africans in New York City, and African community is fastest growing immigrants’ population in New York City. It is great to touch out to them and let them know the services that are offered to them,” Christelle N. Onwu, lead advisor for African communities, NYC Commission on Human Rights said. Aissata Camara, Taiwo Onabanjo, May Malik, Dr. Noel Manyindo, and Marissa Jackson were the five panelists invited to talk about three topics: Employment, building partnership with government agencies, and how to empower communities. [caption id="attachment_1007" align="aligncenter" width="4272"] The presidium[/caption] As they were answered questions, they let participants know that the government gives a chance to... Read more
Federate African Languages, NKO Language maybe an opportunity
By : Barnabé Bazona Bado
NKO may not be hieroglyph. However, its influence is increasing like the hieroglyph, which was according to historians the first written language in Egypt and which may influence other languages around the world. ”NkO is one of the largest written African language spoken in nearly nine(9) countries and by more than fifty million people,” said Djibrila Diane who is the vice – president NKO USA, and secretary general of the World Organization for the Development of NKO. The language has been taught in Harvard University for 7 years by Boubacar Diakité. “ NKO should be an opportunity to federate the written languages in Africa,” he said. “People are talking about Francophonie, when we as Africans we are going to talk about Africaphonie?” According to Djibrila, NKO’ s alphabet has 7 vowels, 19 consonants, 1 neutral, and 2136 syllables, and NKO dictionary has 48, 000 vocabulary words. At the beginning NKO... Read more
Oils for body: When names matter
By : Barnabé Bazona Bado
Like loincloths in Africa, oils for body in the streets of Harlem compete in term of names or label. Name it and sell it: a motto etched in mind of oil’s vendors. Either in a store or on a street, a gaze on a row of oil bottles proves that names matter to do business. From celebrities – Obama, Paris Hilton, Michael Jordan, Kim Kardhasian, – to lewd names such as “lick me all over” or “kiss me all over,” the choice is about brand or taste. The New York Times Magazine wrote: “The hot word in the field of sales . . . is brand.” Body oils, fragrances, or perfumes oils – no confusion, it the same type of oils – are used in general for their scent. However, beyond that perfumery purpose, most people focus on the brand name. “Black people create Obama, they don’t like smell, they... Read more
What Are Sanctuary Cities?
By : Barnabé Bazona Bado
Democrats and some conservatives are fighting over sanctuary cities. Democrats are opened regarding the issue while some Republicans bolden by the President Trump ‘s Administration policies stand for toughness. On the campaign trail Donald Trump has promised to toughen the immigration law including sanctuary city policies He has signed an executive order in January 2017 to halt federal funds for so – called sanctuary cities. Sanctuary city is not a legal term. However, it is a local and informal policy in a local level adopted by certain cities or States in the United states of America to protect undocumented immigrants for being deported. Sanctuary city jurisdictions adopted policies to allow state police to not comply with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) regarding federal immigration law enforcement. In fact, in a sanctuary city, immigration law enforcement officer is prohibited to inquire an immigrant ‘status. According to USA TODAY, “more than 300... Read more