5 Informative Sources On West Africa
West Africa is home to many talented people and beautiful cities. Covering everything from age-old traditions to stories of innovation, here are, in no particular order, some resources for anyone interested in learning about life in this culturally rich region.
First up, at #1, is Bridges from Bamako. It was created by Bruce Whitehouse, an author and cultural anthropologist, to describe some of the changes that have been taking place in Bamako, and the delights and challenges of living in this city. Having spent about five years in Mali, he considers the city as a budding metropolis.
Since the beginning of Mali's political crisis in early 2012, Whitehouse has been writing about pressing national issues, and has been quoted by journalists from media outlets such as France 24, The Guardian, and Radio France International. The author also offers a list of books to help readers learn more about Mali and its peoples, cultures, politics, and history.
In the #2 spot, we have MisBeee Writes. Launched in 2013 by Abena Sɛwaa, also known as MisBeee, the website documents inspiring stories of everyday people, keeping a timeless record of cultural events and opinions from Africans of the diaspora. The stories are mainly about Ghanaians and center on health, culture, the arts, business, and society. They also explore how Africans are shaping and disrupting conventional thinking and discourse in these areas.
MisBeee Writes has a multi-media magazine arm called the AKADi Magazine. Inspired by the meaning "source of light" in the Ghanaian language Ewe, the publication aims to shine a light on the transformative actions of entrepreneurs in tech and business. It also examines language endangerment and its impact on Ghanaian diaspora communities.
Coming in at #3 is Brittle Paper, an online literary magazine that aims to cultivate a fun and informative platform for readers of African literature. It publishes fiction, poetry, book reviews, and essays, and also explores the contemporary African literary scene.
Since 2016, Brittle Paper has published anthologies of various genres featuring writers from across the African continent. Examples include "Enter Naija: The Book of Places" and "Work Naija: The Book of Vocations," which illuminate Nigerian cities and their professional opportunities, respectively.
Taking the #4 spot on our list is Oyotunji Yoruba African Kingdom. Founded in 1970 by Oba Adefunmi, it is the first international community in North America that is based on the culture of Yoruba and Republic of Benin tribes of West Africa. It claims to have built a proud cultural and traditional heritage that reflects the core community values of togetherness, fairness, and compassion.
The group also organizes festivals to appease Yoruba ancient deities, as well as to practice ancestors' worship. Interested parties can immerse themselves in the culture by volunteering at one of these festivals. Educational tours are also available for those wishing to learn more.
Closing things out at #5 is West Africa Internet Governance Forum. The project aims to facilitate inclusive and productive discussions on Internet-related public policy issues in Africa, while keeping all stakeholders involved. This includes having a harmonized and consistent approach when covering relevant topics.
The project aims to facilitate inclusive and productive discussions on Internet-related public policy issues in Africa, while keeping all stakeholders involved.
Internet Governance is the development and application of shared principles, norms, rules, decision-making procedures, and programs that shape the evolution and use of the Internet. The event is held annually, and is hosted by a chosen Member State such as Nigeria or Senegal. Each year, groups discuss a different theme, exchange good practices, and share experiences and knowledge.