Nigeria Prepares for Flood as Cameroon Releases Water from Lagdo Dam

Nigeria’s emergency management agency keeps a close watch on river levels as Cameroon releases water from the Lagdo Dam, urging communities to prepare for potential flooding.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Nigeria is closely monitoring river levels as neighboring Cameroon takes the decision to release water from the Lagdo Dam. The humanitarian affairs minister, Betta Edu, has recommended that communities in about a dozen states along the Benue River should prepare for high water, including possible evacuations.

While NEMA currently sees no immediate cause for flooding concern, the situation could change in the coming days. Gauges have indicated a slight increase in water levels at Makurdi on the Benue River. Moreover, river levels remain stable on the Niger River in neighboring Niamey. It is essential to note that these two rivers converge at Lokoja in Nigeria’s central Kogi state, a region historically susceptible to flooding.

Radio Nigeria has reported that Nigeria’s inland dams at Kainji, Jebba, and Shiroro are all maintaining consistent flow rates.

Cameroon has attributed the water releases to heavy rains in its northern regions. In a letter sent to Nigerian officials last week, authorities in Yaoundé assured that the releases would be measured and as minimal as possible. However, it is worth noting that similar releases from the Lagdo Dam last year resulted in fatalities along the Benue.

In Niger, a US$800 million hydropower dam project has faced disruptions due to the July coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. The China Gezhouaba Group declared force majeure and cited an unfavorable economic climate, partly due to economic sanctions imposed on Niger by the World Bank and other entities.

These developments concerning hydropower dams come amid calls for Africa to reconsider its reliance on hydropower. A study led by researchers from Politecnico di Milano in Italy has found that about two-thirds of future dam projects on the African continent are no longer considered viable investments due to the impact of climate change and the declining costs of solar and wind energy. However, projects in the Niger River basin may still hold value.

The 8th Edition of the Black Star International Film Festival – Ghana

The highly anticipated Black Star International Film Festival (BSIFF) is back, ready to once again captivate audiences and celebrate the world of cinema. Scheduled to run from September 18 to 24, 2023, in the city of Accra, Ghana, the BSIFF has firmly established itself as one of the most significant events in the country’s burgeoning film industry. With a rich history of showcasing exceptional films and fostering industry growth, this year’s festival promises to be a cinematic extravaganza like no other.

Underpinning the 8th edition of the BSIFF is a thought-provoking theme: “Tech in Film: Exploring the Role of Technology in Filmmaking.” In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, this theme is both timely and relevant. It aims to delve into the innovative ways in which technology has been harnessed to transform the art of filmmaking.

Throughout the festival, attendees can expect to witness a diverse selection of films from across the globe that exemplify the creative and pioneering use of technology in the industry. From cutting-edge visual effects to groundbreaking storytelling techniques, the BSIFF will offer a glimpse into the exciting future of filmmaking.

The BSIFF is not merely a film festival; it is a dynamic platform for collaboration, education, and celebration of the cinematic arts. This year’s edition will feature an array of captivating events designed to engage, inspire, and connect film enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.

Film Screenings: Central to the festival experience are the film screenings. Audiences will have the opportunity to explore a diverse range of cinematic gems, including feature films, eye-opening documentaries, and compelling short films. These screenings will transport viewers on a global journey, showcasing the creativity and storytelling prowess of filmmakers from different corners of the world.

Panel Discussions and Workshops: The BSIFF goes beyond the screen with thought-provoking panel discussions and workshops. Covering a wide spectrum of topics relevant to the film industry, these sessions will provide invaluable insights into the craft of filmmaking. From exploring the intricacies of technology in filmmaking to discussing film financing, distribution, and more, attendees will have the chance to engage with industry experts and expand their knowledge.

As a festival that celebrates excellence in cinema, the BSIFF wouldn’t be complete without its prestigious awards ceremony. This year, the festival will shine a spotlight on outstanding achievements across various categories, including Best Feature Film, Best Documentary, Best Short Film, and Best Director. In addition, accolades will be presented to exceptional actors, with awards for Best Actor and Best Actress.

The awards ceremony is a momentous occasion, acknowledging the talent and dedication of filmmakers who have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. It serves as a testament to the festival’s commitment to recognising and celebrating cinematic excellence from across the globe.

TikTok’s Expansion into Africa: Opens Office in Kenya

TikTok, the global social media sensation, is making significant strides in Africa with its latest announcement of opening an office in Kenya. This strategic move aims to tackle content moderation challenges and respond to concerns regarding offensive posts on the platform. Here’s a deeper dive into the key details surrounding this development:

TikTok’s CEO, Shou Zi Chew, has officially confirmed the company’s plans to establish a presence in Kenya, specifically for the purpose of content moderation. This announcement underscores TikTok’s commitment to providing a safer and more enjoyable experience for its users on the African continent.

The decision to set up an office in Kenya emerged following a high-level meeting between TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew and Kenyan President William Ruto. This interaction reflects the collaborative approach being taken to address content-related concerns and foster a positive online environment.

The Kenyan government has warmly embraced TikTok’s decision to establish an office within the country. President Ruto has publicly acknowledged the platform’s commitment to removing offensive content for Kenyan users, a gesture that aligns with the government’s efforts to maintain a safe and respectful online space.

TikTok’s move into Kenya is part of a broader strategy to expand its footprint across the African continent. With Africa’s digital market rapidly growing, TikTok seeks to tap into this burgeoning online landscape, offering its platform to a diverse and dynamic African user base.

Beyond its contribution to digital expansion, TikTok’s presence in Kenya is set to have positive economic implications. The establishment of an office in the country is expected to generate employment opportunities for Kenyan residents, providing a boost to the local economy.

TikTok’s Kenyan office will not only enhance content moderation but also serve as a vital step towards strengthening the platform’s overall presence in Africa. By having a physical presence on the continent, TikTok can gain deeper insights into the needs and preferences of its African user base, ensuring a more tailored and culturally sensitive experience.

Controversy Surrounds Barbie Movie Ban in Algeria

The Algerian government has banned the screening of the movie ‘Barbie’ in the country, almost a month after its local release. The decision was made by the Algerian authorities, citing that the film “promotes homosexuality and other Western deviances” and that it “does not comply with Algeria’s religious and cultural values”.

The movie, directed by Greta Gerwig, is a coming-of-age story about a young woman who navigates her way through life in New York City. The film stars Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, and Timothée Chalamet, among others. It has been well-received by audiences and critics alike, with many praising its portrayal of female empowerment and independence.

The ban on the movie has sparked controversy and debate, with many people expressing their disappointment and frustration on social media. Some have criticised the government’s decision, calling it an attack on freedom of expression and artistic creativity. Others have defended the ban, arguing that the movie goes against the country’s religious and cultural values.

The Algerian government’s decision to ban the ‘Barbie’ movie has been met with mixed reactions. While some people have criticized the move, others have defended it, citing the film’s alleged promotion of “Western deviances” and its failure to comply with Algeria’s religious and cultural values.

The ban on the movie is not the first time that Algeria has taken action against films that are deemed to be offensive or inappropriate. In the past, the country has banned movies that depict violence, sex, and other controversial themes. However, the decision to ban ‘Barbie’ has been particularly controversial, as the movie has been praised for its positive portrayal of female empowerment and independence.

The ban on the ‘Barbie’ movie in Algeria has sparked controversy and debate, with many people expressing their disappointment and frustration on social media. While some have criticized the government’s decision, others have defended it, citing the film’s alleged promotion of “Western deviances” and its failure to comply with Algeria’s religious and cultural values.

Regardless of the reasons behind the ban, it is clear that the decision has had a significant impact on the movie industry in Algeria. It remains to be seen whether the ban will be lifted in the future, or whether other movies will be targeted by the government in the coming months and years.

Glenfiddich Treats Nigerian Entertainment Mavericks to Exclusive Whiskey Odyssey in Scotland

Glenfiddich, the renowned single-malt Scottish whiskey maker, recently hosted a captivating voyage to Scotland for its Mavericks and strategic partners. The event, held on the 2nd of August, offered an exclusive tour of the Glenfiddich Speyside Distillery in Dufftown, nestled in the breathtaking north-eastern region of Scotland.

The Glenfiddich “Where Next” campaign, launched earlier this year, aims to embody the brand’s ethos of pushing boundaries and taking risks. This exceptional voyage to Scotland was designed to provide Mavericks, including notable figures like Mr Eazi, M.I The Guy, Richard Mofe Damijo, Ayinna Nwigwe, Deremi Ajidahun, Ogwa Iweze, and other esteemed stakeholders, with an unforgettable Scottish experience.

The journey began with a captivating exploration of the historic Glenfiddich distillery, which has stood for 137 years among the scenic Scottish hills. Mavericks had the rare privilege of sampling some of the distillery’s oldest and most prized Glenfiddich Whiskeys, including ultra-rare reserves. The brand also treated its guests to a luxurious whiskey-pairing dining experience, where they savored the iconic flavors of Glenfiddich.

Eddie Madaki, Prestige Manager at Williams Grants and Sons, expressed, “Whiskey making is a time-honoured craft that requires deftness and attention to a ton of tiny details that make every sip a wonderful experience. With this tour, we hope to deepen the appreciation for the expertise and ingenuity that goes into every bottle of Glenfiddich whiskey.”

The heart of the experience was the Speyside Distillery, where Glenfiddich’s unconventional whiskeys are crafted. It is the birthplace of many of their remarkable spirits and the place where the brand’s first casks of single malt whiskies were created. Struan Grant Ralph, Global Brand Ambassador for Glenfiddich, remarked, “These unique characteristics make it the perfect location to take a dive into the culture and processes that make Glenfiddich’s renowned whiskies stand out.”

However, the tour extended beyond the distillery, offering Mavericks the chance to explore Scotland’s iconic cultural landmarks. They also indulged in activities reminiscent of Scottish heritage, including clay pigeon shooting, archery, and donning traditional Scottish attire, known as Kilts.

The “Where Next” campaign by Glenfiddich celebrates individuals who embody the spirit of breaking norms and taking risks. Glenfiddich’s legacy of excellence is deeply rooted in this ethos, and it resonates with Mavericks who understand that true greatness lies in the courage to venture into uncharted territories and redefine possibilities.