Harmattan in our town

Harmattan is a dry and dusty wind that blows across West Africa during the winter months, typically from November to March. It is characterized by low humidity, dry and dusty air, and cool temperatures.

The severity of harmattan can vary from year to year, and it can have a range of negative effects on health and the environment. In some cases, harmattan can cause respiratory problems, dry skin and eyes, and other health issues. It can also reduce visibility and make roads and other surfaces dusty, which can increase the risk of accidents.

To avoid harmattan-related health issues, it is important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other fluids. It is also a good idea to wear protective clothing and gear, such as face masks sunglasses, to help reduce the risk of respiratory problems and eye irritation. If you must be outside for long periods of time, try to limit your exposure to the dry and dusty air as much as possible. Using products such as jelly and eye drops, can also help prevent dry skin and eyes.

In addition to taking care of your own health, it is also important to consider the impact of harmattan on the environment. The dry and dusty air can cause problems for plants and wildlife, and it can also contribute to desertification and other environmental issues such as wild fires. To help minimize the environmental impact of harmattan, it is important to conserve water, reduce waste, and avoid activities that contribute to pollution and environmental degradation.

To reduce the risk of accidents during harmattan season, it is important to drive carefully and take extra precautions when traveling. Be sure to allow extra time for your journeys, and take extra care to watch for pedestrians, animals, and other hazards that may not be immediately visible due to the reduced visibility caused by the dust and dry air.

Overall, harmattan can be a challenging time for people and the environment in West Africa. By taking care of your own health and being mindful of the impact on the environment, you can help mitigate some of the negative effects of this dry and dusty wind. 

Christmas Traditions Around the World

Christmas is a holiday that is celebrated in many countries and cultures, and each one has its own unique traditions and customs. In this blog post, we will explore some of the different traditions that exist on different continents and how they add to the joy and celebration of the holiday.

Europe

In Europe, many countries have traditions that date back centuries. In Germany, the Christmas tree is a central part of the holiday celebration. The first decorated tree was brought to Germany in the 16th century, and the tradition has spread throughout Europe and beyond.

In the Netherlands, the celebration of Sinterklaas is a popular tradition. Sinterklaas is a figure similar to Santa Claus, and on the evening of December 5th, children put out their shoes and Sinterklaas fills them with small gifts and treats.

In the United Kingdom, the celebration of Christmas includes the tradition of the Christmas pudding, a rich, fruitcake-like dessert that is served on Christmas Day.

North America

In North America, Christmas traditions vary between the United States and Canada. In the United States, the tradition of sending Christmas cards and exchanging gifts is a popular part of the holiday celebration.

In Canada, the celebration of Christmas includes the tradition of the Christmas tree, as well as the decoration of homes with lights and other holiday decorations. In both countries, the figure of Santa Claus is a popular part of the holiday celebration, with children leaving out cookies and milk for Santa on Christmas Eve.

South America

In South America, Christmas traditions vary by country and culture. In Brazil, the celebration of Christmas includes the tradition of the Christmas tree, as well as the exchange of gifts and the decoration of homes with lights and other holiday decorations.

In Argentina, the celebration of Christmas includes the tradition of the Christmas Eve dinner, which is a large and festive meal that is shared with family and friends. In Chile, the celebration of Christmas includes the tradition of the "Parrillada," a large outdoor barbecue that is held on Christmas Eve.

Africa

In Africa, Christmas traditions vary by country and culture. In Ethiopia, the celebration of Christmas, or "Genna," includes the tradition of singing and dancing, as well as the exchange of gifts and the decoration of homes with lights and other holiday decorations.

In South Africa, the celebration of Christmas includes the tradition of the Christmas tree, as well as the exchange of gifts and the decoration of homes with lights and other holiday decorations which is not too different from several segments of the Nigerian society. Most Nigerians use the opportunity of the holidays to travel to be with and celebrate in the midst of their nuclear and extended families.

What is obvious from the foregoing is that there are many different Christmas traditions around the world, each one adding to the joy and celebration of the holiday. Whether it's the Christmas tree in Europe, the exchange of gifts in North America, the Christmas Eve dinner in South America, or the singing and dancing in Africa, these traditions help to bring people together and create a truly joyous celebration.

It is hoped that learning about some of these traditions leaves everyone inspire to celebrate Christmas in each person's own unique way without losing sight of the overarching message of love and joy and peace and generosity. 

Merry Christmas, and happy holidays!

"13th Month"

 The 13th month pay or bonus is a tradition that is followed by some companies and organizations to reward and retain their employees. The practice of offering a 13th month pay or bonus to employees varies by country and culture. In some countries, it is a common practice that is regulated by law, while in others it is more of a discretionary benefit that is offered at the discretion of the employer.

The origins of the 13th month pay tradition are not well-documented, but it is likely that the practice has evolved over time as a way for employers to show appreciation for their employees and to provide additional financial support. In some cases, the 13th month pay is tied to the employee's performance or tenure with the company. In other cases, it is a fixed amount that is paid to all employees regardless of their performance or length of service.

The amount of the 13th month pay or bonus can vary widely depending on the employer and the country or region in which the employee works. In some cases, the amount may be based on the employee's salary or length of service, while in other cases it may be a fixed amount that is paid to all employees. The timing of the 13th month pay or bonus can also vary depending on the employer and the country or region in which the employee works. In some cases, the pay or bonus is paid at the end of the year, while in other cases it may be paid at a different time of the year.

Some companies or organizations may also offer additional bonuses or perks to their employees in addition to the 13th month pay, such as holiday gifts, company-wide celebrations, or other perks. These additional perks are meant to show appreciation for the hard work and contributions of employees and to create a positive work environment.

Overall, the 13th month pay or bonus is a way for employers to show appreciation for their employees and to provide additional financial support. It is not uncommon for employees to use the additional pay or bonus to cover expenses or save for the future.

Fireworks: Origin

Fireworks have been used for centuries to celebrate and commemorate important events and occasions. The use of fireworks can be traced back to ancient China, where they were used in religious and ceremonial events as far back as the 7th century. The Chinese are also credited with the invention of gunpowder, which is the key ingredient in many types of fireworks.

The use of fireworks spread from China to other parts of the world over time, and they came to be used in a variety of cultural and religious events. In Europe, for example, fireworks were often used in the celebration of important events such as weddings and coronations, as well as to mark the changing of the seasons. In the United States, fireworks have long been a staple of Independence Day celebrations, which commemorate the country's independence from Great Britain.

As the use of fireworks became more widespread, new techniques and technologies were developed to create more elaborate and impressive displays. In the 19th and 20th centuries, advances in chemistry and pyrotechnics allowed for the creation of a wide range of colors and effects, including spinning pinwheels, cascading fountains, and elaborate aerial displays.

Today, fireworks are used in many different cultures and countries to mark a variety of occasions, including New Year's Eve, Independence Day, Diwali, and many other holidays and festivals. They are also used at sporting events, concerts, and other public gatherings to add excitement and spectacle to the proceedings. Despite their widespread use, however, fireworks can also be dangerous, and it is important to follow safety guidelines and use caution when handling and setting off fireworks.