OGILO SKOPE (the speaking pen 🖊️)

  In a groundbreaking achievement, Nigeria's female basketball team, D'Tigress, has become the first African team to break into the top 10 of the FIBA world rankings.  The team jumped four spots to secure the eighth position in the latest rankings released by the world basketball governing body. This remarkable feat can be attributed to their impressive performance at the Paris Olympics, where they defeated Australia and Canada in the group stage and became the first African team to compete in the Quarter-Finals. D'Tigress' success has earned them recognition globally, with head coach Rena Wakama being awarded the best coach of the women's basketball event at the Olympics. The team's achievement is a testament to their hard work and dedication, and they continue to inspire fans and pave the way for future generations of African basketball players. The top 10 teams in the FIBA rankings are: 1. USA 2. Australia 3. France 4. China 5. Spain 6. Canada 7. Belgium 8. N...

  L-R Dangote and Rupert  In a surprising turn of events, South African billionaire Johann Rupert has surpassed Nigerian industrialist Aliko Dangote as Africa's richest person, according to the latest Bloomberg Billionaires Index.  Rupert's net worth has surged by $1.9 billion to $14.3 billion, placing him at 147th position globally, 12 places ahead of Dangote. Dangote's fortune has taken a hit, falling by $1.7 billion this year, leaving him with a net worth of $13.4 billion.  The downturn in his wealth is attributed to Nigeria's challenging economic environment, where his conglomerate primarily operates.  The removal of fuel subsidies and high inflation have contributed to the decline in his wealth. Rupert's success can be attributed to his control of Richemont, one of the world's largest luxury goods firms, which owns brands like Cartier and Montblanc.  His net worth has been buoyed by strong performances in the luxury goods sector. The ranking may contin...

"The Door of No Return" at Cape Coast Castle, Ghana 🇬🇭: A Symbol of Resilience and Return Located in the heart of Cape Coast, Ghana, stands the infamous "Door of No Return," a poignant reminder of the transatlantic slave trade's brutal history.  Built by the Dutch in the 17th century, this door was the last exit point for millions of enslaved Africans, who were forcibly taken from their homeland and shipped overseas to unknown destinations. The original name, "Door of No Return," reflected the harsh reality that those who passed through it would never set foot in Africa again.  However, in a symbolic gesture of reconciliation and acknowledgment, the name was changed to "Door of Return" in 2007.  This change signifies the return of the descendants of enslaved Africans and serves as a recognition of their ancestors' history and legacy. Each year, Ghana celebrates Emancipation Day, a momentous occasion that welcomes people from the African...

  Mpox outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has been declared a public health emergency, with nearly all recorded cases and over 450 deaths occurring in the country.  Children under 10 are disproportionately affected, with 75% of cases seen at a clinic in Munigi being in this age group. The clinic has treated 310 cases since June, with no fatalities due to early treatment. However, a hospital 80km away has seen eight deaths, all under the age of five. Overcrowding and poor sanitation in camps for displaced people have contributed to the spread of the disease.  Health workers are educating people on symptoms and prevention, but vaccines are not yet available in the country. Distribution of vaccines will be limited, and health experts emphasize the importance of improving hygiene practices to reduce transmission.  Affected communities are calling for medicine, soap, and protective measures to prevent further infection. The outbreak is of a new strain, Clade 1b,...