Category: Arts

The first edition of the ‘Women in Culture’ festival, known as ‘Oukazendu Movjombazu’, will be hosted at the Eldorado Secondary School in Windhoek on Saturday.

The event is being hosted by the Elite Pioneers organisation, founded over five years ago by Ukorua Kangwatjivi and Uatengapo Tjirondero to promote the Ovaherero people’s culture and customs via fairs and exhibitions.

Tjirondero, in an interview with Nampa on Thursday, stated that the event will provide a platform for people to share and learn about various Ovaherero traditional customs, as well as develop cultural understanding and solidarity.

It is hoped that the festival will foster cultural variety while also preserving intangible cultural legacy, ensuring that practices and knowledge are passed down through generations.

‘Culture is one of the most powerful tools nations and people use in international diplomacy. Cultural diplomacy is an important player in the global community because it helps people understand each other by highlighting their
traditions and practices,’ Tjirondero said.

She also added that, while the event represents the Ovaherero tradition, everyone is encouraged to attend and learn more about it.

‘Our event symbolises the Ovaherero ethnic group and the Ovahimba group will also be represented. We realised that we are the next adults and that the youth will have to understand how things are done. Our generation is very interested in the modern world; they do not want to preserve our culture, and we want to change that narrative,’ Tjirondero emphasised.

The event will also feature lectures on how to prepare traditional cooking oils, including traditional songs and dance performances.

‘If these activities are ingrained in young people, they will be able to sustain and preserve their culture without being ruined by Western patterns,’ she said.

Last year, the organisation held a similar event for men called ‘Oviwondo’, where they were taught numerous aspects of culture.

Venuscor Investment Group, Otji FM, Erari Carwash, and Pamue
Trailers are among the event’s sponsors, along with individual sponsors who participated in the Campaign 300 initiative.

Source: The Namibia Press Agency

A play, ‘GOWON’, which depicts the life of retired Gen. Yakubu Gowon, former Nigeria’s military head of state, is to be staged in Lagos, from Aug. 24 to Aug.25.

A statement by the Duke of Shomolu Foundation, producers of the play, said on Sunday in Lagos that the play would focus on Gowon’s service to Nigeria and also take a ‘deep and cursory look at his tribe – Angas, in Plateau’.

‘It will run with the theme of unity and lean heavily on the Gowon era policy of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Reorientation put in place at the end of the civil war to heal wounds,’ the statement said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the statement was signed by Mrs Mofoluwake Edgar, Managing Director, Duke of Shomolu Foundation.

‘The play will seek to celebrate the ‘No Victor, No Vanquished proponent,’ the statement added.

It said that the play was written by Prof. Ahmed Yerima, who would also direct the stage proceedings.

Yerima had written equally strong historical plays on Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Emir
Muhammad Sanusi II, Alhaji Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, and Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe.

All the plays were produced by the Duke of Shomolu Foundation.

The statement indicated that the play had been in the drawing board in the last two years ‘waiting for the most auspicious time.

‘For the first time ever on a Nigerian stage, a play will feature accomplished British actress – Tayo Elesin – who will play the role of Victoria, Gowon’s wife.

‘Tayo, who was HID Awolowo in the play ‘Awo’, staged in London, had featured in many western stage plays and many critically acclaimed movies on Netflix.

‘She will bring to bear on the production her international clout and experience,’ the statement said.

The statement disclosed that the play is being sponsored by First Bank of Nigeria, Unified Payments, Orangeline and Sonora Capital.

‘The showing will be at the Agip Recital Hall of The Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos,’ it said.

NAN reports that Gowon, who became the nation’s head of state at 32, ruled Nigeria from 1966 t
o 1975.

His regime was terminated by a military coup with the late Gen. Murtala Mohammed taking his place.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

The season two of ‘Beyond the Veil’, a TV series that depicts everyday life of northern Nigerian women, has premiered in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that filmmakers, industry stakeholders, as well as the cast and crew of the film, were present at the screening on Friday night in Abuja.

‘Beyond the Veil’ brings to the fore everyday life of liberal Northern Nigerian women, highlighting social issues such as polygamy, drug abuse, gender based violence, forbidden relationships and unstable family dynamics.

The story follows the lives of five resilient northern Nigerian women as they navigate the ups and downs of modern life, careers, friendships, romances and the occasional clash of cultures.

The series, which showcase the richness and diversity of the northern culture, follows the lives of five women living in Nigeria’s capital city, Abuja as they navigate work, love, family and friendship.

The star-studded ‘Beyond the Veil’ is created by award-winning filmm
aker Nadine Ibrahim and Sifa Asani- Gowon and is produced by Naila Media.

The film directed by Ibrahim features seasoned stars including ace actress Jemima Osunde, Maryam Booth, Norah Ego, Ummi Ahmed, Ame Aiyejina and Rikadawa Mohammed.

Others include Blessing Uzoro, Caleb Richards, Sani Muazu, Nadia Dutch, Andrew Bunting, Yakubu Mohammed and Temitope Olowoniyan, among others.

The series Director told NAN on the sideline that the project represents an opportunity to showcase a different version of the Northern Nigerian woman.

‘Beyond the Veil’ is a show inspired by the urge to depict Northern Nigerian women in a new and liberating way; one that is bold, empowered, and unapologetically authentic.

‘It is about us sharing a fresh narrative and show the world that a northern woman comes in different spaces.

‘The story follows the lives of five young women living in Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria and the show builds a refreshing narrative around them but does not shy away from exploring the realities the
y face.

‘All the women face ongoing challenges, some of which are layered and continued from the first season, many of which reach a climax and achieve some closure.

‘The recurring themes of friendship, love, healing, and even pain remain in it, and they must push past and grow through all these, making choices that hurt and step bravely into the unknown.

‘As a director, this project marks a significant milestone in my creative journey and it has allowed me to push boundaries, challenge conventions, and evolve artistically and personally,’ she said

Also, the co-creator of the show, Asani- Gowon said the ‘Beyond the Veil’ story was well accepted by Nigerians as it reflected realities Nigerian women face.

‘For the first season, the overall reactions were really good, although I was a little nervous about it, because I did not know how people would take it.

‘However, the overall response was so great, and I think that made it even more positive for me, especially the overall northern Nigeria response to th
e show and now we are unveiling season two,’ she said.

Ishaya Bako, Executive Producer of the film, said the story was a clear reflection of everyday realities that women have to cope with in this part of the world.

Bako, renowned for directing award-winning documentaries like ‘Fueling Poverty’, ‘Silent Tears,’ and ‘UP NEPA’ said the series was a continuous story.

‘Our culture in Nigeria is very vast and rich so we should always tell stories that are vibrant and diverse to reflect issues that affect us,’ he said.

NAN reports that the first season of ‘Beyond the Veil’ was released on Amazon’s Prime Video in March 2023

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

The Jamaican government says it intends to pursue a robust collaboration with Nigeria in the film and animation industries.

The Jamaican High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr Lincoln Downer, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, in Abuja.

This is contained in a statement by the minister’s media aide, Nneka Anibeze.

Downer emphasised the strong relations between Jamaica and Nigeria, highlighting the existing creative industry exchanges and expressed enthusiasm for expanding these collaborations.

He noted that Nigeria had supported Jamaica through the technical eco-programme, which had facilitated exchanges in areas like Batik and jewelry-making.

‘There is a lot of scope for collaboration, particularly in the area of film and animation.

‘Nigeria has supported Jamaica over many years in the creative industry through the technical eco-programme, where artisans have been dispatched to Jamaica for exchanges in areas of Batik and jewelry-ma
king.

‘We are hoping that sometime in the future, these collaborations can be expanded. We also note that Nigeria and Jamaica are in very close relations when it comes to entertainment.

‘A lot of Nigerian entertainers like Burna Boy and WizKid, have come to Jamaica, and even Victor Thompson who was in Jamaica last month. We are looking forward to these sorts of exchanges between both countries and to see how we can establish a framework for deeper collaboration between the two countries.

‘On Monday, we celebrated 54 years of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Jamaica.

‘We are interested in future collaborations with Nigeria because we recognise Nigeria as not only the cultural hub of Africa but of the globe. We also have a rich culture so we are interested in forging a stronger alliance with Nigeria,’ he said.

Musawa welcomed the proposal, expressing interest in the audio-visual film production agreement and Jamaica’s film development initiative.

She also highlighted Nigeria’s
IDICE programme, which provides financial support to creatives.

‘There is a natural partnership between Nigeria and Jamaica especially in arts and culture.

‘I am happy about the cultural exchange being proposed by the Jamaican government and the positive values that can come out of that.

‘We are interested in the audio-visual film production agreement proposed by Jamaica. I am excited about your film development initiative which is just like Nigeria’s IDICE, which empowers creatives to flourish through financial support.

‘We are looking forward to discussing other opportunities that can support creatives in the industry,’ she said

Also, the Director of International Cultural Relations, Mrs Zainab Ali-Biu, sought Jamaica’s support for proposing an International Day for Afrobeat music to UNESCO.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

WINDHOEK, 13 FEB (NAMPA) – The late President Hage Geingob was not only renowned for his leadership but also his impeccable sense of style.

His attire, carefully chosen for every occasion, whether domestic or international, left a lasting impression on many, including local fashion designers who admired his fashion sense.

Namibian fashion designer, Melisa Poulton shared her insights on Geingob’s iconic style and the impact it had on the fashion scene in the country, saying: ‘He was a true style icon. His choice of clothing always exuded confidence and sophistication. His preference for tailored suits, often accessorised with vibrant Namibian fabrics such as Oshiwambo-inspired patterns or the bold colours of the Damara/Nama people, became a signature of his style.’

She added that Geingob’s attention to detail, from perfectly coordinated ties to polished shoes, set a high standard for sartorial elegance, saying that he understood the power of clothing as a form of self-expression and representation.

She sai
d that his attire conveyed a sense of pride in Namibian culture while embracing global fashion influences and was a testament to his ability to bridge traditional and contemporary aesthetics.

Poulton stated that if she had been accorded the opportunity to design or style the late president, she would have jumped at the chance since that is what she has strived for her entire career.

Whether attending official State functions or representing Namibia on the international stage, President Geingob’s wardrobe choice was always meticulously curated, reflecting his status and the value of the nation.

‘As Namibia mourns the loss of President Hage Geingob, his legacy lives on not only in his contributions to the country but also in the enduring influence of his distinguished style. Fashion designers and enthusiasts alike will continue to draw inspiration from his timeless elegance and commitment to representing Namibia with grace and dignity on the global stage,’ Poulton noted.

Source: The Namibia Press Agency

The sixth edition of the Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) Fashion Weekend has been scheduled for Nov. 11 and Nov. 12.

Segun Agbaje, Group Chief Executive Officer of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.

Agbaje explained that GTCO Fashion Weekend was an annual consumer-focused fair designed to showcase the best of Africa’s finest fashion to a global audience.

“Fashion is not just about making items of clothing or style accessories, it is about exploring feelings and channelling creative expressions to create experiences that resonate with various buyers, across different markets.

“The GTCO fashion weekend is constantly evolving to reflect the rapid growth of the global fashion industry in terms of size and sophistication.

“We will continue to draw on the endless possibilities in fashion retail to create better outcomes for individuals, indigenous businesses, and our communities.

“The 2023 edition will provide unique opportunities for local fashion retailers to seize on emerging trends and buyers’ preferences to reposition their businesses and thrive amidst the uncertainties and complexities of the future,” he said.

Agbaje noted that over the years, the event had firmly established its place as an incubator for diverse talent, creativity, and enterprise in fashion retail.

He said this had brought together some of Africa’s prominent fashion brands alongside relatively newer labels to interact with universally celebrated fashion icons and engaging style personalities.

He explained that in keeping with tradition, this year’s event will feature insightful masterclasses and thrilling runway shows as well as free stalls for over 120 fashion retailers.

“Colourful façades, lively music and a delightful ambience are popular elements of GTCO fairs and work together to create a multisensory, thoroughly fulfilling experience for all attendees.

“The GTCO Fashion weekend is one of the main platforms of Guaranty Trust Bank for promoting enterprise, primarily to benefit its growing retail and SME customer base as well as support the indigenous creatives Industry.

“The highly anticipated event is scheduled to hold on November 11th and 12th, 2023, at the GTCentre, Plot 1 Water Corporation Drive, Oniru, Lagos,” he said. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

Source: News Agency of Nigeria