COVID-19 IN NIGERIA: WE SAY NO TO CHINA INTERVENTION

Can the world ever trust China again? Would Nigeria romance with the prime suspect of the current global crisis (COVID-19)? How can we? In 2012 China handed over a fully funded and built headquarters building in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to the African Union (AU). A great gesture of friendship and solidarity, perhaps. But not long after, it was alleged to have been bugged, leaking vital, confidential information of the Union to China in faraway Shanghai! True or false, the Union had to change its computer servers to check the alleged mischief. But issues of health are different. Misfiring means losing a life, or even lives. On a national scale, that can amount to thousands. Painful loss. Avoidable loss. The authorities must tread with caution here. Face masks, test kits, ventilators, vaccine and doctors - all from or of China. Hmmmm, caution we must exercise. Until now we have been using our indigenous doctors, and they have been doing well. WHY CHANGE THE WINNING TEAM? Please let us DISCARD this idea of Chinese intervention. WE DON'T NEED IT. Let us stay safe Stay indigenous. Stay Nigerian We shall overcome

Friday 21 March 2014

Efya: The Golden Voice Of Africa


Efya

Born Jane Fara Fauzzier Afia Awindor, Efya has definitely sung her way into the hearts of music lovers the world over. A four-time Ghana Music Awards Best Female Vocalist, she is known for her ‘electric’ stage performances.  Efya shares with ESSENTIALS her thoughts on African music.
Fans and critics of your music refer to you as the “Golden voice of Africa”. Tell us, how do you feel when such a title is added to your name?
I feel very blessed when I hear things like that. To know [that] people feel that way about my work is always an inspiration to work harder.
Your voice is a unique selling point for you. Do you have any special way of maintaining it?
Nothing else, just singing. I’m always singing to improve my voice. Also, whenever I’m in New York I see a voice coach.
Your stage performances have been described as “breath-taking”. An example is your performance at the 2013 edition of the Africa Magic Viewer’s Choice Award. How do you prepare for each performance?
I just rehearse, rehearse and rehearse some more. Before we get ready for any big shows, every tiny detail of the act is put together by the entire team.
With the immense recognition African music is getting, do you think African music has arrived?
We’ve more than arrived and can make a big impact on the world with our music as Africans.
What are some of the things you think should be done to improve the quality and standard of African music?
We need to believe in our music a lot more and support our sound. We’ve got something unique and special here that is worth proclaiming.
You seem to share some form of musical bond with rapper Sarkodie. Should we expect more collaboration from you two?
Sarkodie is a great artist. I’m glad to have had the opportunity to work with him. He’s also on my album.
Why did you choose to cover Duncan Mighty’s Obianuju with Falou?
Falou is my expression of love. I was inspired by Duncan Mighty’s original. It was very rich and I connected with it instantly.
Which artistes will you love to collaborate with in the music industry, both internationally and locally?
Jay Z, Rihanna , Lira, Sauti Soul, Tiwa Savage, Wizkid… to name a few.
You recently released your mixtape This is not The Album to critical acclaim and some of the songs on it are already considered classics. What would you say is your main source of inspiration?
I’m inspired by my personal experiences, as well as the people and things in my life.
How do you spend your ‘free’ time and what are those simple pleasures you enjoy?
I love watching movies and television shows.
What is Efya up to now and what should fans expect in the not-too-distant future?
Presently, I am working on videos for the first two singles off my album, Life and Forgetting Me. Also, I am recording a few last minute songs for the album launch in April.
Shades or no shades?
Shades, definitely.
What three songs are currently on rotation in your car?
Happy by Pharrell, Drunk In Love by Beyoncé and Sanctified by Rick Ross.
Who is that person or persons you would do almost anything for?
My mother, just my mother.
What are your studio essentials?
My blanket, notepad, MacBook and white wine.
Who is Efya?
I am. Efya is a fun, eclectic and music-loving lady.
Leadership

No comments:

Post a Comment