by Aisha Zakari | May 1, 2022 | Uncategorized
Eid is approaching! Eid means “festive” in Arabic. There are two parts to Eid: Eid ul Fitr, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, our fasting month. We also call it “Small Sallah”, and Eid ul Kabeer, which marks the historical event of the sacrifice of our Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) and the sacrificial lamb. We call it “Big Sallah,” and that’s why meat is in abundance too. Along with the meat, there are a lot of recipes you can cook on Eid too.
It’s that blessed festival we Muslims all around the world come to celebrate by bringing friends and family together in joy, happiness, harmony, and festivity. Food is necessary and the most important part of this festival. In Nigeria, most households consume rice during this festive period. In this article, which I hope will come in handy, I’ll be sharing with you recipes you can make at home apart from rice that will be delicious.
You should spice things up in your household this Eid. Let’s get spicy!
Foods to Cook on Eid
1. Pounded Yam and Egusi Soup
This is one of the recipes you can cook on Eid. It’s my mom’s favorite, and it’s prepared when she wants to ditch the same old rice when she’s in the mood to spice things up for Eid. This is her go-to always. I mean, why not? Pounded yam is filling and satisfying, and when dipped in egusi, it makes the celebration just right and delicious.
We like to pound our yams using a mortar and pestle. However, with advancements now, there are blenders for pounding yam and also processed yam flour (pounded yam), but mortar and pestle remain in my household.
2. Amala and Ewedu Soup
This is basically a Yoruba delicacy that is eaten with stew. This Ewedu is mixed with stew to enrich it and make it edible too. This is my very own favorite.
I like to eat my Amala with Ewedu soup but you can eat it with Egusi, vegetables,, or Efo Riro.
3. Mouth Watering Goat Meat – Pepper Soup
Eid is always complete with this bowl of assorted meat – be it goat meat, chicken meat, or ram meat. This is surely one of the recipes you can cook on Eid.
4. Ram & Yam Porridge
Is there still leftover yam from the pounded yam? Why not make this recipe for friends and family? They will definitely enjoy it.
Add in ram meat to give this dish a sweet, delicious, and festive moment.
This dish is delicious and tasty; you can substitute the yam for potatoes. You could make it watery and add pepper soup spice so you can drink the water and have the same feeling as devouring pepper soup.
Savor the moment, right?
5. Peppered Meat
Pepper Meat is one of the recipes you can cook on Eid. This could be eaten as a whole or pierced through skewers with green bell pepper and onions.
Any way you choose to eat, it’s fine honestly.
6. Vanilla Cupcakes
I mean, what’s Eid without snacks to give to friends and family? It’s even extra chops for us as we have varieties to select from – samosa to spring rolls to doughnuts and then cupcakes.
This is one of the recipes you can cook on Eid.
7. Chocolate Cupcakes
The chocolate cupcake is simply cupcakes but we’ll be adding cocoa powder or chocolate bars and sometimes both into the batter. If you have chocolate bars, add this to the batter and bake. You’ll get the twist in your mouth when the chocolate melts.
Remember, you can add chocolate bars into the batter – it makes the cupcake richer in taste too.
8. Zobo Drink
What’s Eid without drinks, right? I mean, what’s any festive occasion without a drink? There are other drinks like Kunun Aya, or Kunun Gyada to try.
Conclusion
Eid is that time of the month when friends and family come together from afar to catch up and have a good time. In order to do this, different dishes are served to enjoy each other’s company as we jolly dey go with the dishes.
I hope this article has informed you that there are so many dishes to prepare for Eid apart from rice. Tell me in the comments section the one or ones you will be trying out this coming Sallah.
Eid Mubarak once again! Taqabballahu minna wa minkum!!
by Aisha Zakari | Jan 14, 2022 | Uncategorized
Hello Ladies! I mean, we all know this article is about us and our love for Ankara styles, am I right? Ankara styles for women are stunning, gorgeous and what’s versatile about it is that they come in man varieties. We have gowns, skirts and blouses, long straight skirts, flare skirts, peplum gowns, A-shaped skirts and even mini-skirt. But what is the true origin of Ankara?
Origin of Ankara
Ankara otherwise known as “African print” has gradually crept its way into the fashion world both locally, globally and internationally. It is a must-have in people’s wardrobes irrespective of origin, tradition or culture.
The origin of Ankara is indeed not Africa but Europe. Surprised, right? I know, I was too! It was formerly known as “Dutch wax print” down there in Europe. If you ask me, such a boring long name but trust us Africans to spice up things a notch, have interest in it and associate our culture with this fabric.
In Europe, mainly Indonesia (the originality), the fabric was considered and used for only cultural activities and it was mostly worn as a result of its affordability. Even here in Africa, it is affordable within the range of #4500 and more and the rise for its demand is indeed overwhelming.
Permit me to add this, many years ago, Ankara was mostly just a blouse and wrapper (Iro ati buba) but look at us today, you can even get a well-crafted suit made out of Ankara, blazers, gowns, blouses, palazzos, jumpsuits and many more.
Ankara style?
Ankara, “African prints” “African wax prints” “Dutch wax prints” is a 100% cotton fabric with bold styles and vibrant patterns. African prints (Ankara) are made through a dyeing technique called “Batik”.
Related: How 500 Year Old Kofar Mata Dye Pit Is Slowly Dying
In this technique or method, a tool is used to stop the dye from reaching all the fabric. As a result, a pattern is created on the fabric but not created in the part where the tool is either placed or rolled. That is why some patterns you see in Ankara do not have much detailed attention.
Ankara is usually sold per yard, 3 yards, 6 yards and 12 yards. These yards are usually written on the fabric and attached is the company producing the fabric, the cotton and finally the registration number.
Occasions to Wear Ankara
Ankara can be worn regular every day but many people wear it for weddings, special occasions such as birthdays, bridal showers or for simply going out.
Conclusion
Trust me, Ankara types have proven to be an all-rounded style as they can be worn to any occasion, can be worn every day, any day and any time by literally anyone. Despite the fact that the origin of Ankara is Europe and not Africa or that it is intended for Indonesians, doesn’t stop Africans from rocking their Ankara styles proudly.
by Aisha Zakari | Sep 15, 2021 | Uncategorized
When considering what top 10 essential travel items to add to your travel bag for a trip or a holiday, it can be overwhelming in the blink of an eye. You’re conscious and confused about what to include and what not to, what is needed the most and the least. You most definitely don’t want to forget something so you don’t buy them when you get to your destination –planning on staying budget-friendly.
Relax! I’m here for you. In this post, I’ll be sharing with you the all-time travel essentials you need to make that packing easy.
Essential Travel Items You Should Always Pack When Travelling
1. Earpiece/plug
This is my all-time favourite and go-to when planning to embark on any journey. They are essential as they help to block out noise from strangers and also for entertainment.
With these also, you could get an amount of sleep to rest before you get to your final destination.
2. PowerBank
This is very vital when travelling as there won’t be any source of power when you are miles away from home till you get to your desired destination. But with this power source, you’re just a plug away from what’s going on around the world, social media and of course, just a call away from friends and family.
Thank you technology, right?!
3. First aid-kit
First aid kit could just be pain relief and anti-nausea medications that help in relieving migraine or headache, nausea. When filling up that bag, the top 10 essential travel items must include a pack of Ibuprofen, Panadol/Paracetamol and Diclofenac.
What else do you think should be included in a first aid kit while travelling?
4. Towel
This is mostly forgotten when packing for a trip or a holiday. Like I mean, are you planning on not bathing? Towels are essential in keeping your body clean and fresh after a bath and they are lightweight. You could pack two if you can, or just one is okay.
5. Flip flops
Carrying these is a proven way to enjoying your stay when you get to your desired destination. It could be flip flops, crocs or any comfortable shoes you can walk freely with.
I suggest waterproof flops or a crocs cause of the rain. You never can tell.
6. Water bottle
Stay hydrated on the go! This is an essential item when travelling and in our daily lives also. Place water in your carrier bag or in hand and stay hydrated.
7. Toothbrush and Toothpaste
As the name implies, this is very important when travelling. Unless you intend to spend on buying new ones, you could just take them from your closet and add them to your travelling bag.
8. Underwear and shorts
These are essential for comfort and are very versatile. Shorts are quite easy as this gives you the feeling of home and of course, relaxation.
Remember to add these travel essentials to your luggage when taking that next vacation or trip.
9. Clothes
Okay, you’re not planning on wearing just underwear, are you? I know I said they are top 10 essential travel items for comfort but what about style? Make sure to pack enough clothes to make you look stunning on your trip.
Don’t forget to take a pose for the camera too.
10. Cosmetics
These are your everyday essentials to keep your body hydrated and moisturized. Don’t forget to add this to your luggage and include a quality sunscreen plus a good deodorant and perfume.
Smell nice please me avoid hyperpigmentation by using sunscreen.
Conclusion
Travelling is pure ecstasy and bliss we must indulge in our lives when we can. These top 10 essential travel items should be your go-to always when planning that trip or holiday and should be included in your luggage.
For more advanced essential items for international and in-flight experience, you should check this out.
by Aisha Zakari | Jun 17, 2021 | Uncategorized
Dear September… this is a month dedicated to raising awareness of sickle cell disease, celebrating the achievements of survivors living with sickle cell and it entails things to do in sickle cell awareness month in Nigeria.
What is Sickle Cell Disease?
Sickle cell disease is a genetic illness that affects the red blood cells due to an abnormality in an oxygen-carrying protein called haemoglobin. It is genetic because it is inherited, passed on from parents to their offspring (children).
This causes pain, discomfort, and complications to the carriers which is termed “sickle cell crisis”. It is followed up with strong painkillers to alleviate and control the pain.
When is Sickle Cell Awareness Month in Nigeria?
Following sickle cell day which is on the 19th of June, September is a month dedicated to the nation.
September is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month which is aimed at focusing attention on the dying need for more research and treatment for the disease.
What Is the Importance of Sickle Cell Awareness Month?
This was founded to increase knowledge and understanding of the disease. In addition, to comprehend the challenges, and impacts faced by the carriers, and of course their families. It also helps in telling us things to do in sickle cell awareness month in Nigeria.
The importance of this month is to educate and inform individuals about the struggles and complications patients go through. Alongside, their accomplishments and how they go about their daily lives.
What are the Things to Do in Sickle Cell Awareness Month in Nigeria?
Humanity should live. And as such, if you want to be involved, these are things to do in sickle cell awareness month in Nigeria:
1. Donate Blood to Support Warriors
“It’s rewarding and refreshing to know you have helped save a life”
“Give Blood. Spread Love.”
This here tells you how much your act of kindness will be making a huge impact and difference in someone’s life.
Donating blood takes at most an hour and with this hour, you’re helping someone control pain, discomfort, and complications.
Besides, donating blood has so many benefits.
2. Educate Others on the Disease and Its Impact on Lives of the Patients and Families
People live in the unknown when it comes to sickle cell disease. It must be that they heard about it but never truly know what it entails. I was one.
As a result, organize conferences and seminars to help educate and inform others about the disease and its impacts on their lives.
These programs can also be held among sickle cell patients as a way of uplifting them and recognizing each other.
3. Get Tested and Know Your Status Are Things to Do in Sickle Cell Awareness Month in Nigeria
As the month implies, a month of “awareness”, now would be the right time for you and your partner to get informed about your statuses.
Remember, knowing your status early leaves no room for “I wish I had known” or “I wish we didn’t”. We’ve seen that sickle cell disease is genetic and is passed on from parents to their children. As a result, please do not marry a carrier of sickle cell disease.
Know what condition you’re in with your future partner, be informed.
4. Support a Foundation with Finance by Donating If You Can
There are a lot of sickle cell foundations founded by sickle cell patients and others. All these foundations are aimed at improving the lives of carriers and as such, equipped laboratories and research centres are highly needed.
Bone marrow transplant/stem transplant is the only known cure for sickle cell disease. Nigeria as we all know is under-developed and as such, donations are highly needed to meet up with the goal.
Remember, your kind donations go a long way in life and in the hereafter.
Foundations like Safiyya Sickle Cell Foundation are some of the organizations you can support.
5. Advocate for Better Treatments, More Research, Clinical System and Well Equipped Laboratories
There are advocacy foundations in Nigeria solely focused on educating and helping people with sickle cell disease. Moreover, it focuses on letting them know that they are not alone and promises a productive life for them.
6. Organizing a Walkathon
Patients are advised to limit strenuous activities but we all know how exercising is very vital in our day-to-day lives. A walk-a-thon is an event where patients and participants exercise either by walking or running to show support to sickle cell patients.
As a result, there should be enough supply of water at the event and if possible, a medical team. The bottom line is there shouldn’t be strenuous activities for the patients.
7. Shaving or Dying the Hair Are Things to Do in Sickle Cell Awareness Month in Nigeria
This is a bold choice but it goes a long way in showing your support to sickle cell patients. You could either shave or dye the hair.
People like to go viral with this support and as such, it spreads awareness and prompts people to also show support.
8. Run an Event to Raise Funds in Your Community
This can be done by passionate individuals who want to show support. A network of families and friends can put up an event to help raise funds in their community. After the event, the funds are given back as donations to the foundations.
Can you be that network of friends and families?
9. Simply Wearing Red to Show Support Are Things to Do in Sickle Cell Awareness Month in Nigeria
This is one of the simplest things to do in sickle cell awareness month in Nigeria as this doesn’t involve donating.
This simple act of kindness could be wearing red socks or a red shirt to show support to the carriers.
10. Encourage and Talk to Others to Show Support and Raise Awareness Too
Tell a friend to tell a friend! That’s how it works here. Tell your friends what you know about this disease and encourage them to talk to others about it.
You can never know where this news will reach and whose life you’ll be saving just by talking.
11. Use Social Media as a Means of Support and Raise Awareness
Social media has indeed taken over the world and for that sole reason, this is a means of showing support to carriers. Sending and commenting on posts to convey a heartfelt message of how you see and recognize their struggle.
12. Send a Basket of Love to Friends with This Disease or visiting Them Are Things to Do in Sickle Cell Awareness Month in Nigeria
Sending a basket of love is definitely a thing to do in sickle cell awareness month in Nigeria. This kind of activity will be immensely appreciated as sickle cell patients have a different pattern of self-care.
Read: Ultimate Tips to Living with Sickle Cell Anemia
As a concerned friend, you should encourage them to eat healthily, watch out for warning signs like fever. If you can’t be around them often, send a basket of love with essential treatments and diets.
Conclusion
To all the sickle cell patients out there, I see you and I know the pain and discomfort you feel. I see you as warriors and survivors at the same time.
As a result, I take my hat off for every struggling time you’ve encountered and for every time you rise back up.
If you’re reading this, I pray and hope you now know the things to do in sickle cell awareness month in Nigeria. In addition, if you’re doing humanity differently, let me know in the comment section.
Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls
Kahli Gibran
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