Her rise to becoming a great artist with a Grammy to her name is considered rather sudden to everyone, including the artist herself. She had given herself 5 years to reach the height she had reached in only two.

Here is a story of Doechii, capturing her growing up, the music business, and her life.

Who is Jaylah Ji’mya Hickmon?

Jaylah Ji’mya Hickmon is a rapper, singer, songwriter, and actress born on August 14, 1998, in Tampa, Florida.

Also referred to as Swamp Princess, she was one of the three daughters of her parents, Celesia Moore and Snatcha Da Boss. She was brought up in Tampa by a single mother whom she described as being very supportive.

Her mom, a devout Christian, made sure that Doechii went to church as much as possible. There was a time when she was in the church six days a week.  She joined the church dance group and the music band, which influenced her musical sense.

The rapper went to Howard W. Blake High School, where she took part in the performing arts, while also getting involved in soccer.

Music has been a family thing for her

Doechii came from a family that has always loved music. Her father, Snatcha Da Boss, started as an artist himself before going on to hone talents and own his music label in Tampa.

Snatcha Da Boss revealed that he came from a family that spent nights listening to and enjoying great music across genres. This was what his daughter was born into, and since she was a little girl, she was not only observant of music, but she also showed interest in it.

Doechii began her career at 16

Even though she grew up around music and has always had a love for it, it was at the age of 16 when she was still in high school that she decided to start making music. This happened in 2014, and she began writing songs and poetry. Two years later, she dropped her first song, Girls, on Soundcloud under the name Iamdoechii.

She dropped more songs that blended hip hop, pop, and dance. One of the songs she released was Yucky Blucky Fruitcake. The song went viral on TikTok in 2021, opening her up to large music labels.

In 2022, she was signed to Capitol Records and Top Dawg Entertainment, making her the first female rapper to be signed by Top Dawg.

Doechii’s successes, BET, and other awards

Between 2022, when she was first discovered in a major way as an artist, and 2025, Doechii has recorded many successes both commercially and through awards. This is thanks to songs such as Crazy (2022), Persuasive (2022), What It Is (2023), Nissan Altima (2024), and Anxiety (2025).

She has three mixtapes thus far: Alligator Bites Never Heal (2024), Oh the Places You’ll Go (2020), and Coven Music Session, Vol. 1 (2019). The rapper also has two extended plays, Bra-Less (2021) and She / Her / Black Bitch (2022).

In 2022, she got her first award nomination and clinched the first with Crazy when she took home the UK Music Video Awards for Best Choreography in a Video.

In 2025, Aligator Bites Never Heal earned her first Grammy Award for the category of Best Rap Album. She was also nominated in the categories of Best New Artist and Best Rap Performance.

Doechii was nominated for the BET Awards in five categories for Alligator Bites Never Heal, Denial Is a River, and Alter Ego.

See Also: Who Is Cyan Boujee: 10 Facts About Her

She has struggled with drinking for a while

Doechii has had her fair share of struggles, one of which was a problem with drinking too much. She revealed that at one point, she found herself always drinking heavily. This got so bad that she could no longer make music in the studio without drinking.

The situation got her questioning her creativity and herself. It was believed that this was the motivation behind her song, Denial is a River, but she cleared the air that the album was because she was dealing with someone who was lying to themselves.

Jaylah Ji’mya Hickmon is bisexual

Doechii is not married at the moment, but she has had her fair share of relationships, though private. She has made it known that she is bisexual. The rapper has been in various relationships in the past, including with women and men who were also bisexual.

The rapper stated that she could date anyone as long as the person is open to accepting who they are, without hiding themselves and their sexuality. In a 2024 interview, she revealed that she is in a healthy relationship with a girl.

The post Jaylah Ji’mya Hickmon: Rise of Doechii From Tiktok To BET and Many Awards appeared first on WeAfrique.

The claim is that the missile was targeted at the president of Burkina Faso and its military facilities. The Facebook post, which was shared by the page, INews, to its over 160k followers reads thus:

“In a shocking escalation, the Nigerian military launched its first missile strike early this morning on the capital of Burkina Faso. The attack reportedly targeted the presidential compound and key military installations, including the country’s air defense system and central barracks, which were left in ruins.”

The report failed to give any government comment from either Nigeria or Burkina Faso, claiming that eyewitnesses confirmed the attack, which triggered panic among civilians. It went on to also argue that the attack caused significant damage to strategic locations in the country.

In the claimed reaction to the attack, the President of Burkina Faso was reported to have ordered retaliation, stating that “Burkina Faso will not be intimidated or violated without consequences.”

Although various other Facebook pages, including Aso Villa News, reported the news, it has been confirmed that the post is untrue.

The last war Nigeria was ever fully involved in was the Chadian–Nigerian War, a brief war in April 1983 which had a casualty count of over 100 people. Since then, Nigeria has not been in any war with any nation, and it has neither attacked nor been attacked by any other nation.

See Also: The Worst Betrayal In African History: Story of How Compaore Betrayed Thomas Sankara

Although the relationship between Abuja and Ouagadougou has soured since the coup that brought in Captain Traore in September 2022, the two countries are not at loggerheads, and there is no tension of war between them.

Amidst the negative light in which various governments in West Africa, including the Government of Nigeria, cast Traore, she has continued to rise to popularity among the younger generation on social media platforms such as X.

The post Has Nigeria Launched A Missile Into Burkina Faso? appeared first on WeAfrique.

Africa is the continent with the most countries, followed by Asia, which has 48, Europe (44), North America (23), Australia and Oceania (14), and South America (12).

Even though it has the most countries, Africa is not the biggest continent. The entire continent has a size of 30.37 million square kilometers, which makes it the second largest continent, while Asia, with a size of 44.58 million km², is the largest continent by size. After Africa, the third biggest continent is North America (24.5 million square kilometers), then South America (17.8 million square kilometers), Antarctica (14.2 million square kilometers), Europe (9.9 million square kilometers), and then Australia (7.7 million square kilometers).

All Countries in Africa

1. Algeria
2. Angola
3. Benin
4. Botswana
5. Burkina Faso
6. Burundi
7. Cameroon
8. Cape Verde
9. Central African Republic
10. Chad
11. Camoros
12. Democratic Republic of the Congo
13. Republic of the Congo
14. Djibouti
15. Egypt
16. Equatorial Guinea
17. Eritrea
18. Ethiopia
19. Gabon
20. Gambia
21. Ghana
22. Guinea
23. Guinea-Bissau
24. Ivory Coast
25. Kenya
26. Lesotho
27. Liberia
28. Libya
29. Madagascar
30. Malawi
31. Mali
32. Mauritania
33. Mauritius
34. Morocco
35. Mozambique
36. Namibia
37. Niger
38. Nigeria
39. Rwanda
40. Sao Tome and Principe
41. Senegal
42. Seychelles
43. Sierra Leone
44. Somalia
45. South Africa
46. South Sudan
47. Sudan
48. Swaziland
49. Tanzania
50. Togo
51. Tunisia
52. Uganda
53. Zambia
54. Zimbabwe

The continent is divided into five regions: North Africa, West Africa, Central Africa, East Africa, and Southern Africa. Eastern Africa has the most number of countries, 18, followed by West Africa (17), Central Africa (9), North Africa (7), and Southern Africa (5).

South Sudan is the youngest country in Africa

Before 2011, Africa had only 53 countries. However, with the successful breakaway of South Sudan from Sudan on July 9, 2011, making it the youngest country on the continent, the number of countries on the continent officially grew to 54.

At the moment, there are more than 10 active separatist movements in Africa spread across Cameroon, where Ambazonia is seeking to be recognized as a country, Nigeria, which has the Biafra agitation, and Mali with Azawad.

Other territories seeking to be recognized as countries in Africa are Casamance (Senegal), Cabinda (Angola), Somaliland (Somalia), Ogaden (Ethiopia), Tigray (Ethiopia), Barotseland (Zambia), and Rwenzururu (Uganda).

Largest countries in Africa by land area

Algeria is the largest country in Africa, with a population of 2,382,740 square kilometers. Algeria is also the 10^th largest country in the world. It is closely followed by the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which has a population of 2,344,858 square kilometers.

Other countries that form the 10 largest countries on the continent are Sudan (1,862,484), Libya (1,760,540 km²), Chad (1,284,846 km²), Niger (1,268,642 km²), Angola (1,246,700 km²), Mali (1,240,192 km²), South Africa (1,221,037 km²), and Ethiopia (1,104,300 km²).

The smallest countries on the continent are Cape Verde (4,034 km²), Mauritius (2,240 km²), Comoros (2,236 km²), São Tomé and Príncipe (1,000 km²), and Seychelles (452 km²).

See Also: 15 Richest African Countries: Population, GDP, Minerals, Foreign Reserve

Most Populous Countries in Africa

As of 2025, the country with the largest population in Africa is Nigeria, which boasts close to 240 million people.

Often referred to as the giant of Africa, Nigeria is the 14th largest country on the continent by size. Nonetheless, it still stands not only as the most populous in Africa but also as the most populous black nation in the world.

The African country is the sixth-largest country in the world by population.

Ethiopia, with a population of close to 130 million people, ranks as the second most populous country in Africa. It is followed by Egypt with more than 114 million people, DR Congo, with over 105 million people, and Tanzania, which stands as the fifth most populous nation on the continent with over 66 million people.

Least Populated Countries in Africa

Just in the same way that it is the smallest country on the continent by size, Seychelles is also the smallest African country by population. The East African country has a population of less than 130,000 people according to its most recent records in 2025.

São Tomé and Príncipe is the second least populated country in Africa, with a population of less than 240,000 people. Others are Cape Verde (over 520,000 people), Comoros (850,000 people), Djibouti (1,152,944 people), and Eswatini (1,273,506 people).

According to the World Population Review, Mauritius is the only African country with a declining population as of 2025. It has a current population of 1.3 million people, but it is estimated that by 2050, its population may drop to 1.1 million and 582 thousand by 2100.

The post How Many Countries Are in Africa? appeared first on WeAfrique.

The arrest was confirmed by social media activist, VeryDarkMan, who claimed that yesterday, April 28, about 50 men of the EFCC stormed the residence of E-money, where they picked him.

According to VeryDarkMan, the arrest came after E-Money was captured on camera spraying Pounds on Afrobeat singer, Flavor, during the birthday of serial entrepreneur, Obi Cubana. While spraying pounds is not a crime in the country, it is alleged that while doing so, E-Money stepped on naira notes, an act which the anticorruption body described as an offence; “Naira mutilation.

While calling on the EFCC to free E-Money, he accused the body of being very corrupt and tribalistic. He stated that the action of the body is making him to now start believing that the body has something against the Igbos. His assertion comes after the EFCC turned a blind eye to the same offence allegedly committed by the children of Yoruba billionaire, Okowa.

As Nigerians continue to weigh in on the arrest and the EFCC is yet to release an official statement, here is a look at 5 celebrities who have been arrested for abusing the Naira:

1 Bobrisky (Idris Okuneye)

One of the first Nigerians to be arrested on allegations of Naira mutilation is cross-dresser, Bobrisky, whose real name is Idris Okuneye. He was picked up by the EFCC in April 2024 for spraying the country’s currency notes at a social event. The cross-dresser was sentenced to six months behind bars for the crime.

2. Terry Okpala (Terry Alexander Ejeh)

Another celebrity arrested for the same offence is musician Terry Akpala, who was arrested and arraigned by the anti-corruption body in April 2025. The Nigerian hip hop star was charged with committing “an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 21(1) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007.” His case is currently before the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos.

See Also: 12 Richest Black Billionaires, Their Net Worth, and How They Made Their Fortune

3. Cubana Chief Priest (Pascal Okechukwu)

Businessman, socialite, and musician, Cubana Chief Priest, whose real name is Pascal Okechukwu, was also arrested by the EFCC on allegations of abuse of Naira. He was arrested in April 2024 after he was accused of spraying and tampering with the country’s currency at a social event. The case was settled out of court after Cubana Chief Priest agreed to forfeit ten million naira to the Nigerian government.

The post E Money Arrest- 3 Other Nigerian Celebs Arrested Over Abuse of Naira appeared first on WeAfrique.

With the buzz around the person of Turkson, we look at who he is while the world awaits the College of Cardinals to go into conclave and return with a new pope.

Who Is Cardinal Peter Turkson?

Peter Turkson is a Catholic prelate who serves as the Chancellor of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences and the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences. Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson was born on October 11, 1948, in Wassaw Nsuta, Ghana.

Turkson was born into a family of 10 children in a home that supports religious tolerance. His father was Roman Catholic, his mother was Methodist, and he had a close paternal uncle who was Muslim.

He grew up in a modest home with a father who worked as a carpenter and a mother who made a meagre income selling vegetables in the open market.

Peter had his education in Amisano at St. Teresa’s Minor Seminary, and from there, he moved to St. Peter’s Regional Seminary in Pedu, Cape Coast. He proceeded to the United States, where he attended St. Anthony-on-Hudson Seminary in Rensselaer, New York, for his Master’s degrees in Theology and Divinity.

Priesthood and Rise of Peter Turkson in the Hierarchy of the Catholic Church

Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson was ordained a Catholic priest on 20 July 1975 by John Kodwo Amissah, who was at the time the Archbishop of Cape Coast. Five years after his ordination, Turkson was sent to St. Theresa, and he was sent to St Peter’s Seminary a year later, where he served as vice-rector.

Having proven himself in both his academic pursuits and pastoral assignments, he was appointed Archbishop of Cape Coast by Pope John Paul II on October 6, 1992. He was consecrated on 27 March 1993.

Through the years, he became one of the most influential catholic leaders in Ghana, where he served as the president of the West African nation’s Catholic Bishops’ Conference from 1997 to 2005. He was created a cardinal by Pope John Paul II in what was his last consistory.

His elevation earned him the enviable position of becoming the first Ghanaian cardinal. He took part in the 2005 Conclave, which produced Pope Benedict XVI as leader of the Catholic Church, and again, the 2013 conclave that produced Pope Francis.

Positions he held in the Catholic Church

A multilingual who speaks English, French, Italian, German, and Hebrew, apart from his local Fante Language, Peter Turkson has held many offices in the ranks of the Catholic Church, including the following:

• President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace
• Member of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples
• Member of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments
• Member of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity
• Member of the Pontifical Commission for the Cultural Heritage of the Church
• Member of the Pontifical Committee for International Eucharistic Congresses
• Member of the Congregation for Catholic Education
• Member of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith
• Mediator in the Ivory Coast civil conflict
• Special Envoy to South Sudan for peace efforts
• Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development
• Homilist at the opening ceremony of the World Meeting of Families 2018
• Chancellor of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences and the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences

Speculation on Papal Candidacy

The first time the name of the Ghanaian Cardinal came up as a potential pope was in 2013 after Pope Benedict XVI resigned as leader of the Catholic Church. The gambling companies, Paddy Power and Ladbrokes, went on to give him good odds of emerging as Pope.

Other African cardinals also mentioned as frontrunners to succeed Pope Benedict included Robert Sarah of Guinea and Fridolin Ambongo of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Heading into the conclave in 2025 to select the successor of St Peter, the apostle of Jesus and Pope Francis, the three men are still being considered, although Turkson is still preferred by many.

See Also: Aubrey Qwana- His parents Were Pastors- Bio, Net worth, 8 Unknown Facts

The Views of Peter Turkson are often Considered Conservative

The former general secretary of the Church’s second Synod for Africa is one among the Cardinals who have remained resolute in the conservative mode of doing things.

This is one of the things that may count against him if the College of Cardinals feels they still want to maintain the position of the late Pope Francis, who is considered to be one of the most progressive popes in the history of the church.

On the issue of homosexuality, the church leader insisted that while there is a need to call for the rights of people, there is also a need to respect the culture of all kinds of people. He stated that there has to be a distinction between moral issues and human rights. He asked the question,” …but when you’re talking about what’s called ‘an alternative lifestyle,’ are those human rights?”

Once accused of religious bias after a video of his surfaced on YouTube where he made a comment on Muslim demographics and how they may soon take over parts of Europe and France, he apologized for his choice of words while maintaining that any attack on Islam would be an attack to him because he had an uncle who was a Muslim and who took care of him as a child.

The post Peter Turkson- Meet The Ghanaian Cardinal Likely To Be The First Black Pope appeared first on WeAfrique.

Born in the year 2006 which makes her 14 years old at the moment and that she was born and raised in Paris, no other personal information can be found about her. The name of her parents, where she lives, the school attends and if she has siblings or not are not made available yet, this could be an attempt to protect her innocence and also keep her away from harm. She is among those nominated for Most Promising Young Actress Cesar of the year 2021 and is also on New York Times list of the 20 best performers in the world.

10 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT HER

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A post shared by Fathia Youssouf (@fathia_youssouf)

1. She Initially Wanted to be a Journalist

Prior to her audition and acting career, Fathia always wanted to be a journalist and had never received any acting training. However, after her debut in Maïmouna Doucouré’s Mignonnes, Fathia said she wants nothing more than to continue making movies.

2. The ‘Cuties’ is Her First and only Movie so far

Fathia began her career journey in her prime and she has not been featured in so many movies yet. As of the time of writing, she has only 1 movie to her credit. Nonetheless, she has appeared in TV series like Rencontres de cinéma (2021) and La nuit des Césars (2021).

2. Fathia Youssouf was the last person to Audition for Her Debut Movie Role

It was said that at the time auditions were ongoing for Fathia Youssouf’s role in her debut movies, it took the director and its team six months before they found the right person to fit the role of Amy, a Senegalese-French girl with a traditional Muslim upbringing who is caught between traditional Muslim values and Internet culture when she joins a twerking dance crew. She auditioned on the last hour of the last day. Notwithstanding, the auditioning crew immediately knew that they had found the right person for the job.

3. There is much Controversy about Her Debut Movie and the Role She Played

When Cuties was first advertised, it caused a lot of controversy with people airing how irritated and appalled they were to see a supposed 11-year-old showcased in very skimpy clothing and in a very scandalous sexual position

4. Among About 700 Girls Who Auditioned for Her Role, She Was the Only One Fit Enough

Among all the 700 kids who auditioned for the role of Amy, Fathia was the only one considered for the role. It’s almost as if she was born for the role she played and fate took her to the right place and at the right time.

SHE IS FAMOUS ON SOCIAL MEDIA;

She maybe only 14 years old but her name and story has trended a lot on social media especially Instagram, so far she has about 1,100 followers while following 49 accounts herself.

HER MOVIE GINGERED U.S POLITICAL RESPONSE

This Netflix incident also got the U.S Senate concerned to the point where Netflix was invited to discuss the film before Congress. A US Senator Mike Lee went ahead to send a letter to the CEO of Netflix requesting for an explanation. Letters were also sent by other concerned Senators and citizens to the department of justice to enquire whether Netflix and its executives violated any laws as regards to child Pornography.

SHE IS A PRIVATE PERSON

Though the movie ‘Cuties’ has made her stare, Fathia does not seem to share much about her life or better still is not allowed to share personal information about her life probably for the sake of her safety and sanity.

THERE IS A PETITION GOING ON FOR THE CANCELLATION OF HER MOVIE ;

Since the release of her movie in 2020 a lot o people have opened a petition against Netflix to cancel this movie, most people don’t understand the direction to which the movie seeks to go and many are of the opinion that the movie promotes nudity and sexuality of a minor which might promote paedophilia. So far over 3500 signatures have been collected to this effect.

IT WAS ON ACCOUNT OF HER MOVIE THAT THE CLOMOUR ‘BOYCOTTNETFLIX’ STARTED; Operation Boycott Netflix started trending on Twitter after the release of the movie on the 9th of September 2020. Netflix on the other hand has refused to be put in a bad situation for they have made different attempts to convince the public and explain that the movie isn’t what many think it to be, and that the artistry of the cover picture of the movie may have misled many into thinking that. Netflix have since apologised for the adverts and have taken down the photo which have offended so many.

The post Fathia Youssouf – Who Is The Cuties Star? 10 Interesting Facts About Her appeared first on WeAfrique.

Africa, the second-largest continent in the world, is a land of incredible diversity. With 54 countries and over 3,000 tribes, Africa is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and traditions. Each tribe has its distinct way of life, from their unique languages to their traditional clothing and social customs.

These tribes have not only shaped the history and identity of their respective countries but have also contributed to the vibrant tapestry of African culture as a whole. By understanding and appreciating the diversity of these tribes, we can gain a deeper insight into the continent’s rich history and heritage.

So, let’s embark on a journey through Africa and discover some of the most fascinating tribes that call this continent home.

Exploring the Rich Tapestry: 20 African Tribes You Should Know

Africa is a continent known for its diverse range of tribes, each with its own unique cultural heritage. These tribes play a significant role in shaping the social fabric and identity of their respective countries. From traditional clothing to social status and customs, the tribes of Africa are a testament to the rich tapestry of the continent’s heritage.

1. Zulu: The Warriors of South Africa

The Zulu tribe is one of the most well-known tribes in South Africa. With a rich cultural heritage and a history dating back centuries, the Zulu people have played a significant role in shaping the country’s identity.

Known for their warrior traditions and strong oral tradition, the Zulu tribe has preserved their way of life through storytelling, music, and dance. The Zulu language, IsiZulu, is widely spoken by the community, further emphasizing the tribe’s cultural significance in South Africa.

2. Maasai: Nomadic Herders of Kenya and Tanzania

The Maasai tribe is a nomadic pastoralist community that resides in Kenya and Tanzania. Known for their distinctive red clothing and intricate beadwork, the Maasai people have a strong cultural identity that is deeply rooted in their traditions and way of life.

They are a proud and resilient tribe, known for their herding skills and their ability to adapt to the harsh environment of the region. The Maasai tribe is an important part of the cultural landscape of East Africa and continues to preserve their traditions and customs to this day.

3. Yoruba: Culturally Rich Tribe of Nigeria

The Yoruba tribe is one of the largest ethnic groups in Nigeria and is known for its rich cultural heritage. Located in West Africa, the Yoruba people have a long history that dates back centuries. They have made significant contributions to the arts, music, and literature of Nigeria.

With their vibrant festivals, intricate traditional clothing, and a strong sense of community, the Yoruba tribe continues to celebrate and preserve their unique cultural identity.

4. Oromo: The Largest Ethnic Group in Ethiopia

The Oromo people are the largest ethnic group in Ethiopia, with a population of over 35 million. Located primarily in southern Ethiopia, the Oromo people have a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of identity.

They have their own language, Oromo, which is widely spoken in the region. The Oromo people have made significant contributions to Ethiopian history, culture, and politics. With their rich traditions, vibrant festivals, and deep connection to the land, the Oromo tribe is an integral part of Ethiopia’s diverse cultural landscape.

5. Hausa: Influential Tribe in West Africa

The Hausa tribe is one of the most influential tribes in West Africa. With a population of over 70 million, the Hausa people are spread across several countries, including Nigeria, Niger, Ghana, and Cameroon. Known for their strong oral tradition and storytelling skills, the Hausa people have a rich cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in their history and traditions.

They have their own language, Hausa, which is widely spoken in the region. The Hausa tribe has made significant contributions to the arts, literature, and music of West Africa.

6. Fulani: The Wandering Cattle Herders

The Fulani people, also known as the Fula or Fulbe, are a nomadic pastoralist tribe that spans across several West African countries, including Nigeria, Senegal, Guinea, and Niger. Known for their expertise in cattle herding, the Fulani people have a unique way of life that is centered around their livestock.

They are skilled herders and traders, known for their long-distance migrations in search of pastureland. The Fulani people have a rich cultural heritage and are known for their distinctive traditional clothing and intricate jewelry.

7. Amhara: The Historians of Ethiopia

The Amhara people are an ethnic group in Ethiopia known for their deep connection to Ethiopian history and culture. With a population of over 20 million, the Amhara people have a rich cultural heritage that is deeply intertwined with Ethiopian traditions and customs.

They have played a significant role in Ethiopian history, with many of the country’s rulers and emperors coming from the Amhara ethnic group. The Amhara people have contributed to the arts, literature, and music of Ethiopia, and their cultural heritage is celebrated and preserved to this day.

8. Somali: Nomads of the Horn of Africa

The Somali people are a nomadic tribe that resides in the Horn of Africa, which includes Somalia, Djibouti, Ethiopia, and Kenya. Known for their nomadic lifestyle, the Somali people have a rich cultural heritage that is deeply tied to their traditions and customs.

They are known for their intricate traditional clothing, vibrant music, and dance, and their strong sense of community. The Somali people have a long history of migration and trade, and they continue to preserve their cultural identity despite the challenges they have faced.

9. Samburu: Cousins of the Maasai in Kenya

The Samburu tribe is closely related to the Maasai people and resides in northern Kenya. Like the Maasai, the Samburu tribe is a pastoralist community that relies on herding livestock for their way of life. They have a strong sense of community and kinship ties, and their social structure is patriarchal.

The Samburu people have a rich cultural heritage, and their traditional clothing and adornments are distinctive and beautiful. They speak the Samburu language, which belongs to the Nilo-Saharan language family, and they have a deep connection to the land and wildlife of their region.

10. Berber: Indigenous People of North Africa

The Berber people, also known as Imazighen, are the indigenous people of North Africa. They reside in several countries, including Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Mauritania. The Berber people have a rich and ancient culture that predates the Arab conquest of North Africa.

They have their own language, Tamazight, and a distinctive cultural heritage that includes traditional clothing, music, and dance. The Berber people have played a significant role in the history and culture of North Africa, and their traditions continue to be celebrated and preserved.

11. Himba: The Red People of Namibia

The Himba people are an indigenous tribe that resides in the remote regions of northern Namibia. Known for their distinctive red clothing and intricate hairstyles, the Himba people have a unique cultural identity that is deeply rooted in their traditions and way of life.

They are a semi-nomadic community that relies on cattle herding and farming for their livelihood. The Himba people have a strong spiritual connection to the land and their ancestors, and their traditional clothing and adornments are a reflection of their cultural heritage.

12. San (Bushmen): The Ancient Tribe of Southern Africa

The San people, also known as the Bushmen, are one of the oldest tribes in Southern Africa. They have a rich and ancient culture that dates back thousands of years, with a deep connection to the land and wildlife of the region.

The San people are hunter-gatherers, known for their exceptional tracking skills and their ability to live in harmony with nature.

They have a unique language, distinctive rock art, and a deep spiritual connection to the land. The San people have faced significant challenges over the years, but they continue to preserve their ancient culture and pass on their traditions to future generations.

13. Ashanti: Goldsmiths of Ghana

The Ashanti tribe, also known as the Asante, is one of the most famous tribes in Africa, particularly in Ghana. They are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship and goldsmithing skills. The Ashanti people have a rich cultural heritage and are known for their intricate and beautifully designed gold jewelry.

One of the key aspects of Ashanti culture is the significance of gold. Gold holds immense value in Ashanti society and is seen as a symbol of wealth, power, and prestige. The Ashanti people believe that gold has spiritual qualities and is associated with the divine.

The Ashanti tribe also has a strong sense of community and tradition. They have a hierarchical social structure led by a king known as the Asantehene. The Ashanti people celebrate their culture through various traditional ceremonies and festivals, such as the Akwasidae and Adae festivals.

Overall, the Ashanti tribe of Ghana is known for their exceptional goldsmithing skills, rich cultural heritage, and strong sense of community.

14. Tuareg: The Blue People of the Sahara

The Tuareg tribe, also known as the “Blue People of the Sahara,” is one of the most fascinating and recognizable tribes in Africa. They are primarily nomadic pastoralists who inhabit the Sahara Desert, spanning across countries like Libya, Niger, and Algeria.

The Tuareg people are known for their distinctive traditional clothing, which includes indigo-dyed robes and turbans. The indigo color gives them the nickname “Blue People.” The indigo dye is believed to have protective qualities against the harsh desert environment, including the scorching sun and sandstorms.

Nomadic culture is an integral part of Tuareg identity. They travel with their herds of livestock, primarily camels, in search of grazing lands and water sources. The Tuareg tribe has a rich oral tradition, with storytelling and poetry playing a significant role in preserving their history and cultural heritage.

The Tuareg people have faced challenges in recent years due to political conflicts and the effects of climate change on their traditional way of life. However, they continue to strive to preserve their unique culture and maintain their strong sense of identity.

15. Igbo: Renowned for Their Vibrant Culture

The Igbo tribe, one of the largest ethnic groups in Nigeria, is renowned for its vibrant culture and rich traditions. The Igbo people are known for their colorful festivals, traditional ceremonies, and lively music and dance.

The Igbo tribe has a deep-rooted cultural heritage that is expressed through their traditional practices, beliefs, and social structures. They have a strong sense of community and place great importance on extended family relationships. The Igbo people also have a rich oral tradition, with storytelling being a significant part of their culture.

Traditional ceremonies and festivals play a vital role in Igbo culture. One of the most well-known Igbo festivals is the New Yam Festival, also known as “Iri Ji.” This festival celebrates the harvest season and is marked by feasting, dancing, and cultural performances.

The Igbo tribe has made significant contributions to Nigerian society in various fields, including literature, music, and business. They have a strong entrepreneurial spirit and are known for their resilience and determination.

16. Tutsi: The Cattle Herders of Rwanda and Burundi

The Tutsi tribe is an ethnic group that predominantly resides in Rwanda and Burundi. They are known for their cattle herding traditions and have a deep connection to their livestock.

Cattle have immense cultural and economic significance for the Tutsi people. They are considered a symbol of wealth and prestige and are often used as a measurement of social status. Cattle provide the Tutsi tribe with milk, meat, and other essential resources necessary for their livelihoods.

The Tutsi people have a hierarchical social structure, with a king or queen ruling over the community. They have a rich oral tradition and pass down their history and values through storytelling and folklore.

The Tutsi tribe has faced significant challenges in the past, particularly during the Rwandan Genocide in 1994. However, they have shown resilience and continue to preserve their cultural heritage and contribute to the development of their countries.

17. Pygmies: The Forest Dwellers of Central Africa

The Pygmies are a group of indigenous people who primarily inhabit the forests of Central Africa, including the Central African Republic, Cameroon, Gabon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. They are known for their unique lifestyle and deep connection to the forest.

The Pygmies have a hunter-gatherer lifestyle and rely on the forest for their sustenance. They have a deep knowledge of the forest and its resources, using traditional hunting and gathering techniques to provide for their communities.

The Pygmies have a rich oral tradition and pass down their cultural knowledge through storytelling, music, and dance. They have a strong sense of community and place great importance on cooperative living and mutual support.

In recent years, the Pygmies have faced challenges due to deforestation and the encroachment of modern society on their traditional way of life. Efforts are being made to protect their rights and preserve their cultural heritage.

18. Kikuyu: The Majority Tribe of Kenya

The Kikuyu tribe is the largest ethnic group in Kenya, making up a significant percentage of the country’s population. They are known for their rich cultural practices and contributions to Kenyan society.

The Kikuyu people have a strong sense of community and place great importance on family and extended kinship ties. They have a matrilineal system, with descent traced through the female line, and the clan playing a crucial role in Kikuyu society.

Cultural practices such as storytelling, music, and dance are integral to Kikuyu culture. They have a strong oral tradition, with stories and proverbs being used to pass down wisdom and knowledge from one generation to another.

The Kikuyu tribe has made significant contributions to various sectors in Kenya, including politics, education, and business. They have a rich history and have played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s cultural and social fabric.

19. Mursi: Famous for Their Lip Plates in Ethiopia

The Mursi tribe is an indigenous ethnic group that resides in the remote Omo Valley of Southern Ethiopia. They are famous for their unique cultural practice of wearing lip plates, which is a significant aspect of their cultural identity.

For the Mursi people, lip plates are a symbol of beauty and cultural heritage. Girls as young as 15 years old have their bottom lip pierced, and gradually larger and heavier plates are inserted. The size of the lip plate represents the woman’s social status in the community.

The Mursi tribe is also known for their body scarification and intricate body painting. These practices serve as a form of self-expression and cultural identification within the tribe.

The Mursi people have faced challenges due to factors such as encroachment on their land and cultural assimilation. Efforts are being made to preserve their unique cultural practices and protect their rights as an indigenous community.

20. Ndebele: Known for Their Colorful Homes in South Africa

The Ndebele tribe is an ethnic group that primarily resides in South Africa, particularly in the Mpumalanga and Gauteng provinces. They are known for their distinctive and vibrant homes, which are a form of artistic expression and cultural identity.

The Ndebele people are famous for their colorful geometric patterns and intricate designs that adorn the exteriors of their homes. These patterns are created using traditional materials such as clay, cow dung, and natural pigments.

Artistic expression is an integral part of Ndebele culture, with women playing a significant role in creating and maintaining the unique artwork on their homes. The art of house painting has been passed down through generations, and each design holds symbolic meaning.

The Ndebele people also have a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional music, dance, and storytelling. They have made significant contributions to South African art and culture, and their colorful homes have become iconic symbols of their identity.

The post 20 Popular African Tribes You Should Know appeared first on WeAfrique.

Though small and poor, with a long history of wars and droughts, Eritrea’s coastline, people, and politics, make it an interesting country with many fascinating things.

Facts You Should Know About The Horn Of Africa Nation

 

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1. The Name Eritrea is Derived From the Red Sea

Eritrea means the Red Sea in Latin. The sea has always been an important part of Eritrea’s history and development. It was a trade route for the Turks, Egyptians, and Italians who wished they could take over the busy seaports that dot the Eritrean coastlines.

The ports were known to be gateways to the lucrative coffee, gold, and slave markets controlled by traders in the Ethiopian highlands. The Red Sea was also how Christianity and Islam, the country’s major religions, reached its shores. Today it is not only is Eritrea’s vital sea link to the outside world, or a tourist destination for locals and visitors, it is also an artery for the global economy.

2. Eritrea Is Home To Over 300 Islands

The country’s territorial waters are about half its total landmass and measure close to 60,000 Km2. Its coastline along the Red Sea is 1720km long with 1155km of this lying along coastal shores and another 565 km lying around some 350 Islands. It has a combined coastline of 2234Km2 and is the 6th largest in Africa, behind Madagascar, Somalia, and South Africa. Eritrea’s islands are scattered over a vast area of the Red Sea.

200 of these islands belong to the Dahlak Archipelago, one of the world’s greatest and most preserved tourist destinations. Pearl fishing has flourished in the Dahlak Islands since ancient times and the islands are still known for their abundant fish life, corals, and unspoiled waters. However, due to water scarcity, only 10 of these Islands are inhabited by people.

The largest island in Eritrea is Dahlak Kebir which measures 643 km² and is home to some 1,500 inhabitants.

3. Eritrea’s War Of Independence Lasted Over 3 Decades

Eritrea fought Ethiopia for 30 years before gaining independence from Its East African Imperial Master. The Ethiopia – Eritrea Federation was established by the UN General Assembly in 1952 after the defeat of the Italians, Eritrea’s former colonial masters by the British in 1941.

The union eventually ended in a war between both countries in 1961 as a result of Eritrea’s declining autonomy and discontentment with Ethiopia’s imperialism. The war of independence as it is now known lasted for 3 decades and claimed the lives of many men and women, old and young.

The which was spearheaded by the Eritrea Peoples Liberation Front (EPLF) eventually came to an end in 1991, with Eritrea gaining de-facto independence that year, and then full independence in 1963. Both countries still live side by side but are frequently in conflict with each other, as they were in the border conflict of Bardeen, which raged from 2009 to 2018.

4. The Horn Of Africa Nation Is Made Up Of Diverse People and Culture

Inhabited by different tribes and people throughout history, modern-day Eritrea is composed of nine distinct ethnic groups. The highland Tigriyan group is the largest of all nine groups and makes up about half of the country’s 3.7 million population.

Asmara, the country’s capital is also its largest city. It is located in the highland plateau of Eritrea and is home to the Tigrinya ethnic group. National languages spoken include Tigrin, Arabic, Italian, and English, with English fast becoming the language of choice for business and education. Notable religions besides Christianity and Islam, include Catholics, protestants, and Jews.

Coffee is an important ingredient of Eritrea’s social fabric. Eritreans believe that making a good cup of coffee requires patience and skills. Though agriculture accounts for one-third of its economy, the poverty-stricken country is rich in natural gas and precious metals in proportions large enough to boost its economy. It has a growing youth population as the number of people aged 15 to 24, grew from 247,000 in 1971 to 659,000 in 2020, i.e. at an average rate of 2.07% annually.

See Also: Rivers In Nigeria- 10 Most Important Rivers In The Country

5. Eritrea’s Political and Economic Dynamics May Just Be Going in a New Direction

Eritrea is regarded as one of the most isolated states in Africa. This is perhaps why it is nicknamed the North Korea of the continent. The Horn of Africa Nation operates a one-party unitary government and has never held national legislative or presidential elections. The government is perceived to exert an overbearing influence on virtually all affairs of the country and is considered oppressive by many.

Over the years Eritrea has been involved in a series of rows with its neighbors and has been slammed with several backbreaking sanctions by the international community.  These sanctions have had an overwhelming effect on the economy of the country so much so that it is now regarded as one of the poorest countries in Africa.

The government’s recent efforts toward normalizing relations with the International community have led to the UN lifting some of the sanctions it hitherto placed. These recent developments are raising expectations of a reorientation of Eritrea’s political and economic dynamics.

For a country that has survived long wars, and countless droughts, and yet is still standing, Eritrea has earned its place on the map of the world. Although regarded as one of the poorest and politically unstable countries on the continent,  its abundant natural resources, growing youth population, and evolving political disposition, all hold a lot of promises for this country of the Horn of Africa.

The post Where Is The Horn Of Africa Nation? Interesting Facts About Eritrea appeared first on WeAfrique.

The presenter is among the most sought-after voice-over news anchor, and on-air personalities, who have revolutionalized the South African broadcasting landscape with cutting-edge journalism practices, in contemporary times.

Interesting facts about Thabile Ngwato

1. Thabile Ngwato Was Born In South Africa

Thabile Ngwato was born on 13 May 1990 in Mpumalanga, South Africa where she was raised. Unlike many other celebrities, the news anchor has been able to keep her private life tightly underarms, and away from media light so much so that there is hardly any information about her family, parents, siblings or even educational background at the moment.

In 2018, she revealed that her mother was the one who thought her how to dream and also how to chase her dreams.

2. She Kicked Off Her Career At YFM

Ngwato set the ball rolling for her Journalism career when she joined YFM, a youth radio station based in Johannesburg in 2012. While at YFM,  Thabile anchored the program Sistahood, an educational youth show, which became her on-air debut. Subsequently, she left YFM in 2013 to join e.tv’s youth programming block Craz-E.

3. She Joins The SABC TV News As A Producer And Then As Anchor

After leaving e.tv’s Craz-e, the talented presenter, landed a job at SABC as a primetime, and current affairs news anchor on SABC 3 and SABC news channel 404. She was 23 years old when she joined the SABC. She remained with the station until 2018 when she exited after conceiving the idea of starting off her own company.

4. She Grew up Being Inspired by BBC’s South African Born Presenter, Lerato Mbele

The on-air hostess has always been inspired by Lerato Mbele, the veteran South African-born BBC presenter. Ngwato often admitted to watching her a lot when she was younger, stressing that she has always regarded Lerato as her role model. This was as a result of the fact that Ngwato has always dreamed of becoming a famous presenter when she grows up just like Lerato Mbele.

5. Aside from her Journalism Career, She is also an Entrepreneur

Away from the big screens, Thabile is also an accomplished entrepreneur. She founded her company Rapid Innovations in 2018, which specializes in innovations, technology, and development. It aims at developing technological and digital solutions to contemporary issues.

See Also: Queen Nandi – 10 Fascinating Facts About Mother Of Shaka, King Of The Zulus

6. She is also a Co-Founder of the DSTV Channel Newzroom Africa

Having earlier established her company Rapid Innovations, her strong entrepreneurial spirit led her into taking a step further, establishing the news channel called Newzroom Africa in partnership with Thokozani Nkosi of Eclipse TV.

The channel is a subsidiary of her company Rapid Innovations. It was first announced in August 2018 by MultiChoice, shortly after the ANN7’s contract folded up amidst the emergence of the Gupta scandal. Nonetheless, Newzroom Africa was launched on 1 May 2019, as DSTV ch405.

For her achievements in the field of Journalism thus far, the pacesetter has been recognized by the Global African Awards with an Outstanding Services To Media and Journalism award in 2021. She got the recognition alongside Thokozani Nkosi. In 2018, she took home the Glamour South African Women Of The Year Award.

7. Is Thabile Ngwato Married?

In recent times, many of Thabile’s fans have been edgy to know whether the prolific media personality is married, or has been in any relationship. All the same, from our findings, she has been once rumored to be in a relationship with Kaizer Chiefs captain and former Orlando Pirates Jimmy Tau.

Her alleged love affair with the former footballer came in barely three months after his breakup with Sizakele Manonga. The rumors became intense after the former Orlando Pirates footballer was spotted with the Thabile, having launch together. Despite that, the tales of their alleged romance later ebbed away as the alleged lovebirds couldn’t confirm nor deny the rumors.

Again, Thabile was also romantically linked with Sizwe Dhlomo, after pictures of the duo’s vacation in Japan went viral on Instagram, which seemingly suggests they are head over heels.

By and large, it is believed that at the moment, the TV personality and entrepreneur is still single.

Complete profile of Thabile Ngwato

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Who is Sophie Alakija?

Sophie Rammal Alakija who is well known as Sophie Alakija was born on February 8, 1993, in Lagos state Nigeria. She is of Lebanese and Efik descent but her nationality is Nigerian.

Sophie has three siblings, who are also quite popular. Her eldest sister became famous after dealing with the news of alleged adultery and being the baby mama of controversial actor and politician Desmond Elliot. Her older brother Mohammed keeps a very low profile, and her younger brother Jay Rammal also known as Golden boy is a model and actor signed to Kpcypress productions. Not much is being said about her parents, but her mother is Lebanese.

Details You Probably Didn’t Know About Sophie Alakija

1. She is a graduate of Redeemer’s University Ede, Osun state.

Although not much is known about Sophie’s educational background, what is known is that she is a graduate of English language and Literature/Letters from one of the prominent private universities in Nigeria, Redeemers’ University, Ede, Osun state.

2. Sophie Alakija became popular for her appearance in Wizkid’s music video

The actress came to the limelight for being the lead female dancer in the music video of the afrobeat music sensation, Wizkid hit song Holla at your boy.  After it was said she to have dated the renowned superstar Wizkid now (Big Wiz).

3. The actress has featured in so many films

Born with so much innate passion for acting and entertainment, Sophie has made appearances in many films including Drawing strands which was her most challenging shoot as she was pregnant and traveling so much at the time. Other movies she featured in include: Small Chops, Getting Over him, Assistant Madams, Village people, Dream Job, Manifestation, Loud, Karma on Ice, Muddled, Rising Above, Uncommon Events, and The Intern amongst others.

She has also worked with quite a number of prominent actors in Nollywood like Chika Ike, Rachel Okonkwo, Zubby Michael, Nkem Owoh, Venita Akpofure, Olive Emodi, Desmond Elliot, Deyemi Okanlawon, Matilda Obaseki, Majid Michael. She is also popular for her role in Halita a 2019 TV series as well as starring in a Ghanaian – Nigerian TV series titled Scandal in 2017. Sophie recently appeared in Timi Egbuson’s 2020 movie titled Muslim Wife.

4. Alakija was Wizkid’s girlfriend

Sophie and Nigerian-born Afrobeats superstar Wizkid (now Big Wiz) were once in a romantic relationship sometime in 2011. Even so, the lovebirds later broke up and went their separate ways.

5. She has a naturally long and dark hair

Blessed with so much natural beauty, the actress is extremely beautiful and known for her exceptional natural hair. This often makes her stand out among her peers. She has been able to maintain the hair over the years so well that it has become a motivation to many ladies.

6. She is said to have been divorced

The pretty actress was previously married to Nigeria’s richest woman’s (Florunsho Alakija) son Wale Alakija before they got divorced. She married Wale in a low–key traditional Islamic wedding which took place on the 27^th of March, 2016 in Surulere Lagos state Nigeria. Her marriage to Wale produced two children, Aydin and Caliph.

Unfortunately, the union allegedly crashed after three years in late 2019 but the news came to the media in 2020 after a popular controversial gossip blog site, Gistlovers brought it to public notice. According to the site, it was discovered after much scrutiny on the actress’s social media page that she had deleted all photos of her husband and family members on her Instagram page.

It was then reported that she left her marriage to go live the Baby girl lifestyle with her friends, Efe Irele and Timi Egbuson who fondly referred to as the pimp that introduced her to many sugar daddies the blog also reported that she has declined all settlement plans to put in place by both families.

All the same, she is still stuck to her former husband’s family name Alakija probably due to the respect the name commands in the society, deleting it only from her bio on Twitter. It is said that neither of the two parties has debunked or affirmed the reports of their divorce.

7. She has quite a Substantial net worth

It goes without saying that Sophie is a thriving model and movie actress who has been able to rake in so much into her bank account. Her net worth has been estimated at about $250, 000.

See Also: Boluwatife Balogun Is Wizkid’s Son- Meet All Other Children Of The Singer

8. Sophie Alakija is a brand ambassador of Lipton and Smile

Coupled with her acting and modeling career, Sophie is a brand ambassador of Lipton and Smile – a company that offers broadband access and communication services.

9. She also adds culinary skills to her profile

Sophie is no doubt very talented, endowed, she also knows to have good cooking skills. She has once wowed her fans on her Instagram page after posting a meal she prepared. She has also featured in Maggi seasoning ads and other food-related ads.

10. She is a social media influencer

Sophie is known for her beauty prowess, while she is admired by a lot of her fans across the globe. She has gained much recognition through her social media handles. She is also a social media influencer and has promoted so many beauty products companies in Nigeria. She is currently known as @sophiealakija on Instagram with over 691k followers and more than 28k followers on Twitter, and her official Twitter handle is @SophieRammal.

Complete profile of Sophie Alakija 

The post Sophie Alakija – 10 Interesting Facts You Didn’t Know About Her appeared first on WeAfrique.