The door was still closed and nobody knew what was happening inside the house. After knocking on the main door several times, Cheulanda the gate man stood facing the door whilst pondering the next move. It simply was not normal that neither his boss nor the house maid could hear the knock. He had been knocking on the door for thirty minutes but to no avail. The time was already past 1:30 in the afternoon, usually, he would have finished his lunch by this time. He had to act fast as he was famished.  The two had not come out of the house since the previous evening when they had gone to sleep. They always wake up at around 7 am every day except on weekends. Even Brown did not go to work that day, a thing which worried Cheulanda. “What has happened to these people? Why are they not opening the door?” wondered Cheulanda.   Suddenly, he had an idea to break the door. He then quickly picked a huge stone and threw it at the door. Bang! The door shook, but did not yi...

The 2024 edition of the Chinua Achebe Literary Festival and Memorial Lecture, was held in Awka, the capital city of Anambra State on 16th November, with many dignitaries. PREPARATIONS Izunna Okafor, is the State Coordinator of the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (Anambra State Chapter) —the literary body that organizes the event — . According to him, Chinua Achebe Literary Festival and Memorial Lecture, initiated in 2016 and currently in its 9th edition, is a literary event the association annually organizes in honour and memory of Nigerian literary icon, Late Prof. Chinua Achebe, in celebration of his life, works and legacies. He added that this year’s event (as usual) held on Achebe’s birthday, November 16, 2024, at the Anambra State Central E-Library (also known as the Prof. Kenneth Dike State Central E-Library Library) in Awka.starting at 9AM prompt; with many dignitaries and participants in attendance. While revealing this year’s theme of the event as “Remembering Achebe… In a T...

                            GUEST WRITER  CHIKUMBUTSO BILLY THAWALE Chikumbutso is a Malawian young writer who writes poems, short stories and novels. He is currently a University student at Chancellor College in Zomba, Malawi.  Four years have passed, yet the pain remains A long night of terror, a monster's cruel games I was flooded with pain, unable to fight And though I cried out, my voice was lost in the night My parents, my friends, thought it was a lie But I know the truth, and the tears won't dry Fear still fills my eyes, a constant reminder Of the trauma I faced, the suffering I endured  Will I ever escape this prison of shame? Can I cleanse the scars and reclaim my name? My future, once bright, now lies in decay But I refuse to let it fade away No, it's not over, my sister, it's not the end The fire within me still burns, a passion that transcends A vision takes shape, a mission to fulfill I'll...

                        TB Joshua  The 2024 BBC documentary on the renowned Nigerian prophet, TB Joshua, of the Synagogue Church of All Nations and Emmanuel Television, has left many in shock. Often regarded as a man of God due to his purported healing abilities, including curing the sick, those with HIV/AIDS, cancer patients, and even facilitating the walking of disabled individuals, TB Joshua's public image seemed to align with the acts of a genuine prophet. However, revelations from past disciples who left the church suggest a different narrative, alleging abuse by the prophet. In Matthew 24:24, the Bible forewarns of the last days, cautioning that false messiahs and false prophets will arise, presenting themselves as followers of Jesus. They will perform great signs and wonders while ultimately engaging in wrongdoing against God's kingdom. The scripture urges believers to exercise caution, emphasizing that these false ...

  Morocco, a country teeming with vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes, offers a treasure trove of lessons to be learned. From its remarkable developments to its thriving businesses and unique way of life, Morocco provides valuable insights that can inspire and enlighten people from all corners of the globe. One of the most striking aspects of Morocco is its impressive strides in development. Over the years, the country has made significant investments in infrastructure, education, and technology, propelling it towards modernization and economic growth. From bustling cities like Casablanca with its towering skyscrapers to picturesque rural villages adorned with traditional architecture, Morocco seamlessly blends the old with the new, showcasing a harmonious coexistence between tradition and progress. In terms of businesses, Morocco boasts a diverse and dynamic entrepreneurial landscape. From bustling markets and souks brimming with handmade crafts and artisana...

                               A Shopping Mall in Uganda  Uganda, a country known for its entrepreneurial spirit and vibrant business landscape, offers valuable lessons that individuals across Africa can learn from to nurture and grow their own businesses. From innovative approaches to customer service and market penetration to resilience in the face of challenges, Ugandan entrepreneurs exemplify traits and strategies that can inspire and guide aspiring business owners continent-wide. Entrepreneurial Ingenuity and Innovation: Ugandan businesses are renowned for their entrepreneurial ingenuity and innovation, often finding creative solutions to address market needs and challenges. Whether it's developing affordable and locally sourced products or leveraging technology to reach new customers, Ugandan entrepreneurs demonstrate a knack for identifying opportunities and adapting to changing market dynamics....

  AFRICA When I catch a glimpse of your beauty, Beautiful people, lakes, and rivers, Perfectly crafted mountains, oceans, and waterfalls, Most treasured wildlife, You outshine diamonds brightly.   So peaceful and warm-hearted like Malawi, Your soil pregnant with wealth and pure water is what you excrete, Not surprising how you catch the eyes of tourists, News about you spreads to every corner it touches, For you are truly blessed.   Africa, Africa, my only continent, Rich in natural minerals, With a culture that embraces everything That exists, And beautiful women, And appetizing fish like Chambo in Malawi.   Every time my mind recalls the slave trade, The Thangata system, and all evil acts, Like babies, your people cried, Your people were tortured, Then light came, defeating darkness, Light always wins, Just as Satan never shakes hands with light, Africa is feared, Africa is still on the verge of prospering, ...