Lagos Theatre Festival: ‘Single in Gidi’ Adapted for the Stage

Published

7 years ago

March 1, 2017

The adaptation is a part of the prestigious Lagos Theatre Festival, a week-long event aimed at presenting performing arts from Nigeria and the UK.

The story that highlights being young in Nigeria and the wedding culture is popular among young readers. Members of cast spoke on their experience and how the story will resonate with the audience.

Established in 2013, the Lagos Theatre Festival is part of efforts of the British Council to promote the arts in Nigeria

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Related Topics:Lagos Theatre Festival Single in Gidi

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5 Countries That Still Practice Female Genital Mutilation

Published

4 weeks ago

March 23, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Female Genital Mutilation: Countries That Still Practice It | Fab.ng

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a harmful traditional practice carried out in over 30 African countries, as well as some countries in Asia and the Middle East. Sadly, it’s often seen as a necessary part of raising a girl and preparing her for adulthood and marriage. The misconception is that FGM prevents promiscuity and ensures “virginity.”

Let’s look at some of the countries where FGM is prevalent:

1. Indonesia

Here, over 90% of Muslim women have undergone FGM, impacting a staggering 70 million women and girls. This number represents a disturbing 35% of the global burden of FGM. Despite the practice’s prevalence, no laws explicitly ban it in Indonesia or other Asian countries.

2. Saudi Arabia

Although FGM is considered illegal worldwide, Saudi Arabia lacks clear legislation against it. FGM is still practised in some areas, like Jeddah and Hali. A concerning statistic reveals that 18.2% of women in Saudi Arabia—nearly one in five—have undergone FGM/C.

3. Yemen

A study in Yemeni coastal areas found an alarming prevalence of FGM—89% among women and nearly 80% among young girls in surveyed families. Shockingly, two-thirds of women and half of men in these areas have little understanding of the harmful effects of FGM.

4. Somalia

With the highest number of FGM cases globally, Somalia paints a grim picture. A staggering 98% of girls between 5 and 11 years old have undergone Type III infibulation. This is the most severe form of FGM. UNICEF estimates that at least 200 million girls across 31 countries have been subjected to FGM. It highlights the devastating global impact of this practice.

5. Egypt

Unfortunately, Egypt leads the world in the number of women and girls who have gone through female genital mutilation or cutting (FGM/C). This practice, widely considered harmful, has impacted a staggering 87.2% of women in Egypt between the ages of 15 and 49.

This alarming statistic becomes even more impactful when considering Egypt’s large population of nearly 95 million people. The sheer number of women affected underscores the urgency of addressing this deeply concerning traditional practice.

Female genital mutilations in Africa

Even though FGM is outlawed in some of these countries, the practice continues. In many others, there are either no laws against it or the laws are weak and not enforced. Here’s a list of African countries where FGM is still practised:

Benin
Burkina Faso
Cameroon
Central African Republic
Chad, Cote d’Ivoire
Djibouti, Eritrea
Ethiopia
Gambia
Ghana
Guinea
Guinea-Bissau
Kenya
Liberia
Mali
Mauritania
Niger
Nigeria
Senegal
Sierra Leone
Somalia
Sudan
Tanzania
Togo
Uganda

FGM is a horrific practice with no health benefits for girls or women. It can cause a range of serious medical problems. These include:

Severe bleeding
Difficulty urinating
Cysts
Infections
Complications during childbirth
An increased risk of death for newborns.

Also, this is why so many organisations are working hard to raise awareness about the dangers of FGM and end this harmful tradition for good.

ARTS & CULTURE

The Tribe With The Longest Hair In Africa: Secrets To Their Long Hair

Published

4 weeks ago

March 23, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Tribe With The Longest Hair In Africa | Fab.ng

The Mbalantu women of Namibia and Angola have the longest hair in Africa, often reaching down to their ankles. Nicknamed the “Braided Rapunzels,” their hair transcends mere aesthetics and represents a cherished tradition passed down through generations.

The secret to their remarkable hair growth lies not in some ancient mystery but in a continuous practice meticulously followed. Here’s a glimpse into the Mbalantu hair care regimen:

1. Natural nourishment

The Mbalantu women ensure their hair’s health from a young age by using a special homemade mixture to keep it moisturised and prevent breakage. This special concoction, made from “omutyuula” (acacia) bark and fat, lays the groundwork for their hair to grow long and strong.

Tribe With The Longest Hair In Africa | Fab.ng

2. Ceremonial care

As a Mbalantu girl matures, her hair becomes a vital part of her life journey. Around the age of twelve, special ceremonies mark the start of dedicated hair growth practices.

These ceremonies involve creating a thick paste by grinding “omutyuula” tree bark and mixing it with fat. This paste is then applied directly to the young girl’s scalp, where it stays for years, nourishing her hair for future growth.

3. Unique styling techniques

Once a strong foundation is established, the hair care journey turns fascinating. Fruit pips and long, slender strands crafted from animal sinew are meticulously woven into the hair. This distinctive style forms the foundation of the iconic “Eembuvi” braid.

Tribe With The Longest Hair In Africa | Fab.ng

By the time a girl reaches the pivotal “Ohango” initiation ceremony at sixteen, these braids have reached the ground, symbolising her transformation into womanhood.

4. Lifelong commitment

Hair care remains a priority throughout a Mbalantu woman’s life. As she matures, the “omutyuula” mixture is reapplied to maintain growth. Upon marriage, the long “Eembuvi” braids are woven into a headpiece. This style is so substantial that it often requires support from a rope or strap. This elaborate hairstyle signifies her marital status and only changes during significant life events like motherhood.

Conclusively, the Mbalantu women’s dedication to their “Eembuvi” braids extends far beyond aesthetics. It’s a testament to their cultural heritage. It is also a unique hair care tradition that has inspired countless braiding techniques worldwide. Their story serves as a beautiful reminder of the power and significance cultural practices can hold.

Learn more about the culture here.

For more articles like this, check here.

ARTS & CULTURE

5 Tiv Proverbs For Cultural Insights

Published

2 months ago

March 4, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

5 Tiv Proverbs For Cultural Insights | Fab.ng

Tiv proverbs are short and precise expressions that contain deep meanings and cultural insights. They offer guidance, moral lessons, and reflections on various aspects of life. These aspects include relationships, decision-making, and community values.

These proverbs play a vital role in preserving the heritage, identity, and collective wisdom of the Tiv people. They serve as learning tools and sources of reflection in their daily interactions.

The Tiv people, an ethnic group in Nigeria, have a rich tradition of oral literature. This includes their proverbs. Like most other proverbs, Tiv proverbs are deeply rooted in the community’s cultural heritage. They serve as vessels of wisdom, values, and social norms.

They are used to convey traditional knowledge, moral lessons, and societal expectations. We will explore the meanings of Tiv proverbs and provide five examples along with their interpretations.

1. “A kôô ngen gere, senyôôl ka nenge amanyan.”

Meaning: If you want to go far, travel light by leaving aside unnecessary baggage.

This proverb emphasises the importance of simplicity, efficiency, and focus in pursuing one’s goals. It encourages individuals to prioritise their essentials and discard distractions to achieve success.

2. “A mô amôô ha a fô orkôr nô ka fôsôômô.”

Meaning: If you treat your chickens well, they will never forget to wake you up early in the morning.

This proverb underscores the concept of reciprocity and the value of kindness. It conveys the idea that positive actions towards others are often reciprocated in meaningful ways.

3. “Anyi naaha, iha vvô vvôene keete.”

Meaning: A feast is meant for sharing; don’t expect to eat it all alone.

This proverb highlights the importance of generosity and communal sharing. It encourages individuals to embrace inclusivity, hospitality, and the spirit of togetherness.

4. “Anyôô nem vérite iôôtim, susum a kpa kpaan lô lôghena.”

Meaning: The tadpole laments to the mother toad, saying, “When I grow up, I will live in shallow water.”

This proverb symbolises the cycle of life, growth, and aspirations. It conveys the idea that individuals should appreciate their current circumstances and understand their place in the world.

5. “A shôô asôm hembee, se a hoohoo kôwvô ke abogher.”

Meaning: The white goat is given to honour, so let it go and roam where it pleases.

This proverb speaks to the idea of respecting individuals’ worth and honouring their contributions. It also talks about allowing them the freedom to express themselves authentically.

Tiv proverbs offer valuable insights into the beliefs, values, and cultural heritage of the Tiv people. Through these concise yet meaningful expressions, individuals learn lessons about community, morality, relationships, and the dynamics of life.

The symbolic richness of Tiv proverbs is like a guide for navigating the complexities of human interactions. Understanding the essence of Tiv’s identity and wisdom is also important.

Check out more proverbs here.