Ado-Awaye, a captivating town nestled in the heart of Oyo State, Nigeria, is a hidden gem that boasts a rich tapestry of African culture and natural wonders. This remarkable destination is renowned for its awe-inspiring hill, Oke Ado, which cradles the enchanting Iyake Lake, one of only two suspended lakes in the world. As we embark on this journey to unearth the captivating mysteries of Ado-Awaye, we delve into its cultural significance, the legendary wonders that await, and the unforgettable experiences that make this destination a must-visit for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in African heritage.

Ado-Awaye: A Glimpse into African Culture and Heritage

Nestled in the mesmerizing landscapes of Oyo State, Ado-Awaye is a picturesque town that embodies the essence of Yoruba traditions and customs. Steeped in history, this town has been a testament to the resilience and rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people for centuries. Ado-Awaye derives its name from the amalgamation of two neighboring cities, Ado and Awaye, each contributing unique elements to the town's identity.

Oke Ado: The Gateway to Enchantment

At the heart of Ado-Awaye lies Oke Ado, a majestic hill that captivates all who lay eyes upon it. This towering natural wonder serves as a gateway to the breathtaking wonders that await within its embrace. As we ascend Oke Ado, a sense of anticipation fills the air, drawing us closer to the marvels that lie beyond.

Continue reading here

https://www.theadulawo.com/2023/09/11/seven-wonders-of-ado-awaye-africas-hidden-gem/

African history is rich with cultural heritage and traditions that have influenced the world in many ways. Among the great leaders of African history is Mansa Musa, the 14th century ruler of the Mali Empire. Mansa Musa is widely considered as the richest man that ever lived, amassing an enormous wealth that remains unmatched in history. His legacy is a testament to African wisdom, black thoughts, and black excellence.


Early Life

Mansa Musa was born in 1280 in Niani, a small town in the Kingdom of Mali, which was located in present-day Mali, West Africa. He was the son of Faga Laye, who was the brother of the previous king, Sundiata Keita. According to legend, Sundiata was a great warrior who founded the Mali Empire in 1230 after defeating the Soso kingdom, which had ruled over the region.

Mansa Musa inherited the throne in 1312 after the death of his predecessor, Abubakari II. He was crowned as the Mansa, which means king or emperor, and he became the ninth ruler of the Mali Empire. At the time of his ascension to the throne, the Mali Empire was already a major economic power in West Africa, with a thriving trade in gold and salt.


Wealth and Influence

Mansa Musa of Mali, the richest man that ever lived, is a name that echoes through the annals of African history, culture, heritage, and tradition. He was a devout Muslim who ruled Mali during its golden age and made a pilgrimage to Mecca in 1324 that forever changed the course of African history.

Mansa Musa's wealth was legendary, estimated to be worth $400 billion in today's currency. His riches came from Mali's abundant gold and salt mines, which were the backbone of the country's economy. He was a generous man who used his wealth to build schools, mosques, and other public works that benefited his people.

Mansa Musa was a devout Muslim, and he is known for his famous pilgrimage to Mecca, which he undertook in 1324. He traveled with a large entourage of soldiers, merchants, and slaves, and he carried an enormous amount of gold with him. According to some estimates, Mansa Musa's wealth was equivalent to over $400 billion in today's money.

Continue reading at https://www.theadulawo.com/mansa-musa-of-mali-the-richest-man-that-ever-lived/

Sure they were, and they still are as they live on. What are your views on Pan Africanism if i may ask

BlackAdam65:
Well im not a pan africanist nor do i believe in pan africanism but these were great people

This is a conversation White imperialists will dread

Smartguyboy:
How many of them where killed by the help of CIA?

Then our country would be far better

Maazieze:
if only we had a president like julius nyerere

Throughout history, Africa has produced some of the world's most influential leaders who have dedicated their lives to the pan-African movement, a movement solely dedicated to uniting all people of African descent against colonialism, racism, as well as other forms of oppression. In this list, we have listed ten of Africa's top pan-African leaders, who are notable for their contributions to the continent and beyond.

Kwame Nkruma
Patrice Lumumba
Jomo Kenyatta
Muammar Gaddafi
Haile Selassie
Julius Nyerere
Ahmed Sékou Touré
Amílcar Cabral
Thomas Sankara
Robert Mugabe


Kwame Nkruma (September, 1909 — April, 1972)

Kwame Nkrumah is a Ghanaian politician and revolutionary who led Ghana to independence from British colonialism in 1957. A staunch advocate of Pan-Africanism, he played a key role in the creation of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in 1963.
The idea of African socialism dominated Nkrumah's political philosophy, which placed an emphasis on economic and social development on the African continent. He implemented policies aimed at achieving economic self-sufficiency during his presidency because he believed the only way for Africa to achieve true independence was through economic self-sufficiency.
Even though Nkrumah achieved much during his time in power, he faced allegations of corruption and authoritarianism. A coup overthrew him in 1966, and he spent the rest of his life as an exile.
In spite of his controversial legacy, Nkrumah remains an important figure in African history, and his contribution to independence and pan-Africanism is celebrated today.

Patrice Lumumba ( July, 1925 — January 17, 1961 )

Patrice Lumumba was a Congolese independence leader and the first democratically elected Prime Minister of the Republic of the Congo. Lumumba played a crucial role in
leading the Congo to independence from Belgian colonial rule in 1960. He was a charismatic leader who advocated for the unity of the Congo and the African continent as a whole. Lumumba's tenure as Prime Minister was short-lived, as he was overthrown in a coup just months after taking office. Despite his brief time in power, Lumumba's legacy as a champion of African independence and unity continues to inspire generations of Africans.

Jomo Kenyatta ( c. 1894 — August, 1978 )

Kenyatta was a prominent Kenyan nationalist and the father of the Republic of Kenya. He played a crucial role in leading Kenya to independence from British colonial rule and served as the country's first president from 1964 until his death in 1978. Kenyatta was a strong advocate of Pan-Africanism and worked to promote unity among African nations. Despite controversy surrounding his leadership, Kenyatta's legacy remains an important part of Kenya's history and his contributions to the country's development are still celebrated today.

Muammar Gaddafi (1942 —October, 2011)

Muammar Gaddafi was a Libyan revolutionary and politician who ruled Libya for over four decades. He came to power in a military coup in 1969 and transformed Libya from a poor country to a wealthy one by nationalizing the oil industry. Gaddafi was known for his Pan-Africanist views and advocacy for African unity. He supported anti-colonial and anti-imperialist movements throughout the world, providing financial and military aid to groups like the African National Congress in South Africa. However, his rule was marked by human rights abuses, suppression of dissent, and support for terrorist groups. Gaddafi was overthrown in 2011 during the Arab Spring and was later killed by rebels.

Continue reading at https://www.theadulawo.com/the-top-ten-revolutionary-pan-african-leaders-of-africa/

didroon43:
A very interesting read. A lot to be learned from here.

True

According to modern studies, the Cradle of Humankind is found in modern-day South Africa and some of the oldest learning centers in the world spread across the continent. History and culture abound on the continent of Africa, with numerous ancient civilizations that have left their mark. Human civilization has benefited immensely from the contributions of these civilizations, and their impact can still be felt today. This blog post will examine 7 Important Ancien African civilizations.

That said, there were plenty of African kingdoms and empires throughout the continent; regional and political powerhouses similar to those we find in our history books today. The seven most poular of them in no particular order include ;

Carthage
The Benin Empire
The Aksumite Empire
The Kingdom of Ghana
The Mali Empire
The Ethiopian Empire
The Kingdom of Zimbabwe


Carthage
Location – Tunisia

Time – In what is now Tunisia, Carthage was the capital city of ancient Carthage.

To open our list of 7 IMPORTANT ANCIENTS AFRICAN CIVILIZATIONS is Carthage. Carthage dominated the Mediterranean for centuries as a powerful ancient African civilization. At the time of ancient Egypt, its naval power and military prowess similarly made it a formidable force. Known for its magnificent architecture and art, including its mosaic floors, the city was well known for its charm.

Although Carthage was not the first Phoenician settlement in the region, Utica may have been half a century older, and various traditions concerning the founding of Carthage were shared among Greeks, who called the city Karchedon. Despite this, the Roman tradition is better known because of the Aeneid, which tells how Dido fled her brother Pygmalion (a historical Tyrean king) in order to found the city.


Continue Reading https://www.theadulawo.com/7-important-ancients-african-civilizations/

The literary masterpiece Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe has had a lasting impact on African literature. It describes the life of Okonkwo, an Igbo warrior, and how colonialism affected his community in 1958. According to Wikipedia, Things fall apart is Chinua’s debut novel.


Plot Summary

The story is set in the 1890s in the Nigerian village of Umuofia. This story features Okonkwo, a respected warrior who has risen through the ranks of his tribe to become the leader of it. However, as the British colonizers enter his community, he struggles to reconcile his pride with what is happening around him.

Umuofia’s traditional way of life is disrupted by the arrival of the British, who bring their religion and government with them. Okonkwo’s increasing violence and aggression toward those who are betraying his culture is a result of his desperate need to maintain his status.

The novel ends in tragedy as Okonkwo commits suicide in response to the economic and political challenges brought about by colonialism.


Themes

Achebe’s novel explores a number of important themes, including:

Cultural Conflict
Gender Roles
Fate and Destiny

Cultural Conflict

An important theme of the novel is the conflict between traditional ways of life and colonialism’s changes. In the face of rising social change, Okonkwo, who is fiercely proud of his culture, struggles to adapt. He sees the arrival of the British as a threat to his way of life and becomes increasingly violent and aggressive in his attempts to defend it.

Gender Roles

Gender roles in Igbo society are also explored in the novel. The traditional view of women is that they are inferior to men and ought to be subordinate to their husbands. In Achebe’s stories, however, female characters are independent and strong, challenging these traditional roles.

Fate and Destiny

Okonkwo’s tragic fate is also one of the novel’s major themes. It is not only the decisions he makes that shape his life, but also external forces that affect it. In the end, British arrival and the changes they bring have a profound impact on his life and ultimately lead to his downfall.


Writing Style

Achebe’s writing style is simple and direct, but also rich in detail and imagery. He uses traditional African storytelling techniques, including proverbs and folktales, to bring the culture of Umuofia to life.

His use of language is also notable. He writes in English, but incorporates Igbo words and phrases, giving the novel a unique voice and a sense of authenticity.

Critical Reception

Since its publication, Things Fall Apart has received widespread critical acclaim. With more than 50 languages translated into it, it is widely regarded as a seminal work of African literature.

Although the novel has been praised for its portrayal of African culture, it has been criticized as well. There have been claims that Achebe romanticizes precolonial Africa, and portrays the Igbo people in a simplistic and one-dimensional manner.


Conclusion

Overall, Things Fall Apart is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that explores important themes of culture, gender, and destiny. Achebe’s writing style is both accessible and engaging, and his use of traditional storytelling techniques adds to the novel’s authenticity.

While the novel has its detractors, it remains an important work of African literature and a testament to the enduring power of storytelling.

Read full review on

https://www.theadulawo.com/things-fall-apart-by-chinua-achebe-an-honest-review/

7 Thrilling Things to Do in Olumurin Waterfalls


There are many waterfalls in Osun State, Nigeria, but the Erin - Ijesha Waterfalls, also known as Olumirin Waterfalls, are perhaps the most stunning and beautiful. The waterfalls are composed of seven layers of cascading water, each with its own unique beauty and charm which tells the story of their beauty. According to The Nation, "Olumirin waterfall was discovered by hunters in 1140 AD". And finally, another tale tells that Akinla, a granddaughter of Oduduwa discovered the tourist site during the migration of Ife people to Erin-Ijesa. Several activities can be enjoyed at the waterfalls, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, since the waterfalls offer so many attractions to visitors. This blog post will highlight seven things to do at the Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls and why they are a must see.


7 Thrilling Things to Do in Olumurin Waterfalls include ;

Hiking
Swimming
Picknicking
Photography
Bird watching
Rock climbing
Relaxation


Hiking: Hiking is one of the most popular activities at Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls, and it is very popular with visitors. Taking the hike up the top of the waterfall can be challenging, but once you reach the top, you will see that the views are very worth it. Throughout the trail, visitors are able to observe a variety of wildlife and lush greenery as well as a number of well-marked paths.
Swimming: The cool and refreshing water of Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls is perfect for swimming. Visitors can take a dip in the water and relax while enjoying the stunning scenery around them. However, visitors should exercise caution when swimming, as the water can be deep in some areas.

Picnicking: The area around the waterfalls is perfect for a picnic. Visitors can bring along their favorite snacks and enjoy a relaxing meal in the shade of the trees. There are also several picnic tables available for use.

Photography: With the stunning natural beauty of Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls, it's no surprise that it's a popular destination for photographers. Visitors can capture the beauty of the waterfalls, the lush greenery, and the wildlife in stunning photographs.

Bird watching: Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls is home to a wide variety of birds, making it an excellent destination for bird watchers. Visitors can spot species such as the African Finfoot, the African Pied Hornbill, and the Striped Kingfisher.

Rock climbing: For the more adventurous visitors, rock climbing is a popular activity at Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls. With several layers of cascading water, there are plenty of opportunities for rock climbing enthusiasts to test their skills.

Relaxation: With the serene environment and the sound of the waterfalls, Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls is the ideal destination for relaxation. Visitors can sit back, unwind, and enjoy the natural beauty around them.

In conclusion, Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls is a beautiful natural wonder that offers visitors a wide variety of activities. From hiking and swimming to bird watching and rock climbing, there is something for everyone at this stunning destination. So, whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls is definitely worth a visit.

Read up on our visit to Erin-Ijesha waterfalls https://www.theadulawo.com/olumirin-falls/

Watch Video on our trip https://youtu.be/A2ftYEgjLWE

Erin Ijesha Waterfalls history

Erin Ijesha waterfall is a tourist attraction center located at Oriade local government area of Osun State. The waterfall which has 7 steps/falls was said to have been discovered in 1140 AD and was called Olumirin which means “another deity”according to Pulse.ng .

How many floors does Erin-Ijesha waterfall have?

Erin-Ijesha waterfalls has 7 steps/falls. The waterfalls is a whole new exciting and awe inspiring experience with nature. Each step of the waterfall has a flowing fountain that marks the mystical nature of the place.

Who discovered Olumirin Waterfall?

There are different versions of the discovery tale. A tale tells that it was discovered by one of the daughters of Oduduwa, a divine Yoruba King, Ancestor and Hero. According to The Nation, “Olumirin waterfall was discovered by hunters in 1140 AD”. And finally, another tale tells that Akinla, a granddaughter of Oduduwa discovered the tourist site during the migration of Ife people to Erin-Ijesa.

At the time, natives viewed the location as a sacred place where they could pray and appease their souls. I traveled with WavyTours, who organized the trip and other wonderful individuals who made the trip all lively and fun throughout. The journey lasted for about two (2) hours from our takeoff spot, Ibadan, Oyo State.

Arrival at Olumirin Waterfalls

We arrived at the site to the warm embrace, smiles and a bit of tussle amidst the petty traders at the entrance who were trying to sell us different items they considered essentials. These items include shorts, swimming trunks, slippers, shower caps, snacks, soft drinks, etc. We spent some time taking pictures while the trip organizers tried to settle the gatekeepers so we could be let in. Yes! We paid a gate fee of #1000 per head after which we proceeded to the first floor which is about 500 meters from the entrance. Ayan drums played melodious music as we were greeted by their melodious sounds. These people can really make you move if you like to dance.

Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls First Floor

The first floor, the most crowded of all the floors if you ask me. This is where most people take their pictures and videos. There was a lot of jumping in and out of the base where some of the water falling from the fall settles before flowing in other multiple directions. Surrounded by rocks and water. The first floor alone feels like an experience, I mean you can stay there, watch the waterfall , sit on rocks, indulge in your vices if you have any. It’s a rocky, rough and hilly climb from there.

The Olumirin Forest

I proceeded with a group of people to climb in search of other layers and falls and they are the best people you want to climb with. We not only bantered on the way, we joked, laughed , shared stories and most importantly bonded on our journey through the forest of Olumirin in our quest to discover the seventh floor and source which has its own settlement in a different state. On our way we kept moving and motivating one another while we walked, climbed, jogged and ran wherever the need be.

In the middle of our journey, we came across this middle-aged man whom we trusted at first sight. Getting tired, I questioned him about the distance we had to walk before finding “the source”. The distance was about 10 minutes. Just to confirm he knew what he was saying, I asked him if he was sure. He nodded. My group doubled up and we arrived at a settlement 5 minutes later. Wow! People dey live here!” one of the guys i was with exclaimed.

They had mud houses one that resembled what a typical village house in a remote location would look like. We stopped at one of the huts to take pictures and someone suggested we shouldn’t sit on the shining bench outside the hut so we do not disappear. Of Course you can tell man has seen a number of nollywood movies in his twenty something years alive because I know exactly where that was coming from. We laughed over that, sat on the bench and took some amazing shots. I was tempted to drink from the hut beside the bench but naaaaa (overdo no good).


The source of Erin Ijesha-Waterfall

We finally discovered the source and hmmmmmmm…. I will not be revealing details about it. If you really want to know, go and walk the path. We agreed to keep it confidential for a reason. Lol

Several towns and villages were not so far from where we were, so we took some pictures and videos, spoke to locals, and interacted with them. Unless you find the Olumirin Waterfalls source, I am not your mate. Apparently, Oduduwa took our walk as well.

The trip back with the group was an even more interesting one. We got to points where we argued over which way was the right way back. We misled one another and found ourselves in the settlement of Monkeys. Yes! Proud Oduduwa descendants, we not only got to the source we also managed to find where the Monkeys resided in the forest. It was at this point that we all came to a consensus, a simple one, we were lost! We carefully traced our steps back and managed not to miss our way again. After walking for about an hour 45 minutes we approached the 2nd fall and began the rocky, rough and hilly climb down to the base and ground floor.

Exploring the Nature of Olumirin Waterfall

Nestled in the picturesque hills of Osun State, Nigeria, Olumirin Waterfall is a breathtakingly beautiful natural wonder.

The Olumirin Waterfall is a seven-step waterfall that cascades down into a large pool at the bottom. Erin-Ijesha waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation and the water is crystal clear. The area is also home to some of Nigeria’s endemic wildlife species, including monkeys, birds, and butterflies.

The Olumirin Waterfall is a popular spot for visitors to take pictures and admire the beauty of nature. The water is cold and refreshing, and the scenery is breathtaking. The waterfall is also a great place to relax and escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Visitors can hire guides to take them to the top of the falls, from where they can enjoy the view of the seven steps of the Olumirin Waterfall cascading down into the large pool below. It is also possible to swim in the pool at the bottom of the falls.

If you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and want to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, the Olumirin Waterfall is the perfect place to visit. With its natural beauty and amazing workmanship, this hidden gem is sure to leave you mesmerized.

VLOG
Watch the video of our visit to the Waterfall here. https://youtu.be/A2ftYEgjLWE

What does it mean to be African? This is the question that birthed Ilẹ̀ Adúláwọ̀. Ilẹ̀ Adúláwọ̀ is a Yoruba term which directly translates as The Land of Black-skinned Man. As the name implies, Introducing Ilẹ̀ Adúláwọ̀ is about Africa and everything it means to be African.
We are deeply drawn to the history, culture, and vast beauty of Africa and we are conscious that there are people who share our passion. We are building Ilẹ̀ Adúláwọ̀ for you and for us.

For the longest time, we yearned for Afrocentric heritage and we found fragments of it here and there. Ilẹ̀ Adúláwọ̀ is our attempt at helping people like us explore Africa to the fullest. Consequently, Ilẹ̀ Adúláwọ̀ is your guide to discovering and understanding all things African.


CONTENT CREATION ;

Ilẹ̀ Adúláwọ̀ is an indigenous brand that hopes to preserve & promote African culture & traditional heritage. We are on a mission to change the stereotype around Motherland people, places, spirituality, lifestyle, etc. we showcase various African places and cultures through our blog & vlog, and we also retail locally produced crafts, clothing & fashion items, and artefacts.
Young people need to understand everything it means to be African. To have them freely express their Africanism in their style, language, dress, and orientation.
We have spent time touring the continent, seeking out the continent’s best and most exciting adventures. From trekking to kayaking, caving to diving and everything in between, stay tuned to check out the comprehensive list of our favorite adventures.


SHOP ;

We are fully launching a #shoplocal campaign which ensures that we shop locally produced items in different categories ranging from fashion, accessories, arts & craft, etc.


Events ;

We are hosed the first edition of Palmwine, Cocoa & Chills (PC ‘n C) to mark the launch of Ilẹ̀ Adúláwọ̀. PC ‘n C '22 held at Arnheim, Jericho. The event which is a celebration of the African identity that hopes to bring together people who are drawn to the beauty of the motherland. People showed up in their indigenous outfits and experienced Africa.
See photos from the event at theadulawo.com/gallery


We are on a mission to change the narrative about Africa by showcasing in a new light the people, places, culture, food, spirituality, fashion & style, etc.
Through storytelling, we help our readers explore the continent and the beauty in it.