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From Fotabong, Cameroon to U.S Presidential Appointee – A Personal Conversation with Dr. John Nkengasong

Dr. John Nkengasong; a major frontline in Africa’s battle against COVID, is the first African to be appointed as the Ambassador of the United States President’s Emergency Plan For AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).

Dr. John Nkengasong. Photo Courtesy of Africa CDC

Dr. Nkengasong, famously known for his relentless battle against viruses and disease in Africa, is a Cameroonian-born virologist with over 30 years of experience in public health. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Nkengasong worked for the World Health Organization (WHO), where he was named the WHO Special Envoy for Africa.

BIOGRAPHY

Education and early life

While he was in high school, Dr. John Nkengasong took interest in biology, chemistry, and mathematics. He studied at the University of Yaoundé for his undergraduate degree, where he met Professor Peter Piot, who pushed him to pursue a Ph.D. degree in Virology at Antwerp. He went on to Antwerp’s Institute of Tropical Medicine to study biomedical sciences. He then traveled to the Vrije Universiteit Brussel after finishing his second degree to pursue a master’s degree in medical sciences. His dissertation research was the first to describe all of Africa’s HIV genetic subtypes. Later, at the John F. Kennedy School of Government, he earned a management certificate.

Early beginnings

Dr. John Nkengasong was appointed Chief of Virology at the World Health Organization in 1993. He was in the Institute of Tropical Medicine in Antwerp’s Collaborating Centre for HIV/AIDS Diagnosis and has worked on HIV/AIDS pathogenesis, diagnostics, and drug resistance.

Achievements

Dr. John Nkengasong is a leading virologist with years of experience in public health and currently serves as the first Director of the Africa Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He is the first African-born American to hold the position of Ambassador-at-Large and Coordinator of PEPFAR. He was the Associate Director of Laboratory Science and Chief of the International Laboratory Branch at the Division of Global HIV/AIDS and Tuberculosis, and the acting Deputy Principal Director of the Centre for Global Health at the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention before joining the Africa Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). Dr. John Nkengasong was also the Chief of the Virology Laboratory at the Department’s Collaborating Centre for HIV Diagnostics.

Awards and honors

Dr. John Nkengasong has won multiple awards for his unmatched bravery, including the William Watson Medal of excellence which is the highest award by the Center for Disease and Control (CDC). Dr. Nkengasong was also knighted by the Cameroonian government in 2018 for his significant contribution to societal health in his country of birth.

Dr. John Nkengasong earned a doctorate in medical sciences (virology) from the University of Brussels in Belgium, as well as a master’s degree in tropical biomedical science from the Institute of Tropical Medicine in Antwerp. He has received numerous honors for his work, from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for the 2020 Goalkeepers Global Goalkeeper Award, and the Knight of Honor Medal from the Government of Cote D’Ivoire. Dr. John Nkengasong is an associate professor at Emory University’s Emory School of Public Health in Atlanta, Georgia, and a member of several international review boards, such as the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Initiative – CEPI and the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI). He has over 250 peer-reviewed articles in international journals and several book chapters to his credit.

Impact

Dr. John Nkengasong served for the World Health Organization (WHO) as one of the Director General’s Special Envoys during the COVID-19 epidemic and was named the World Health Organization (WHO) Special Envoy for Africa. Africa has evaded the scale of infections observed in other regions of the world since the beginning of the pandemic, thanks to the bravery of Dr. John Nkengasong.

Dr. John Nkengasong. Source: Afriquinfos

Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States (1994-2016)

Within a few years, Dr. Nkengasong relocated to Abidjan to work for the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as Chief of Virology. He received training in Berkeley as part of the John E. Fogarty International Center in preparation for this post. Dr. John Nkengasong worked at the California State Laboratory with Mike Hendry, who was in charge of the HIV diagnosis program. He was instrumental in the formation of the African Society for Laboratory Medicine in 2011 (ASLM).

Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Africa (2016-2021)

Dr. John Nkengasong became the initial Director of the Africa Center for Disease Control and Prevention in 2016. He oversaw the Regional Integrated Surveillance and Laboratory Networks (RISLNET) in Africa CDC. He believes that empowering local leadership is critical to keeping infectious illnesses out of Africa.

Dr. John Nkengasong was named a special envoy to the World Health Organization’s director-general during the COVID-19 pandemic. He was in charge of amplifying the Director-General’s remarks and offering strategic preparedness recommendations in this position. He oversaw Africa’s response to the coronavirus, which included the training of a group of young responders known as the African Healthcare Volunteer Workforce as testing in conflict-affected areas and concerns with social distancing in urban slums made protecting the African people from the coronavirus disease difficult.

Dr. John Nkengasong also co-chaired the event’s High-Level Scientific Panel during the preparations for the Global Health Summit, which was hosted by the European Commission and the G20 in May 2021.

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Dr. John Nkengasong. Image adapted from Scrolla

President Joe Biden appoints Dr. John Nkengasong

Dr. John Nkengasong was nominated by President Joe Biden to be the Ambassador-at-Large for Global Health Diplomacy and Global AIDS Coordinator at the Department of State on September 27, 2021. His previous nomination ended at the end of 2021, and on January 3, 2022, it was returned to President Biden. The following day, President Joe Biden resent his nomination.

On March 15, 2022, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee held hearings on Dr. John Nkengasong’s nomination. His appointment to lead the United States public health program targeted at combatting AIDS in other nations was confirmed by the United States Senate in May 2022.

Ambassador-at-Large John Nkengasong has dedicated his career to global health diplomacy, working tirelessly to improve the health and well-being of people around the world. Previously, he served as U.S. Global Aids Coordinator, playing a leading role in the implementation of PEPFAR and driving its impact on vulnerable populations in Africa and elsewhere. Ambassador Nkengasong is also Co-Chairman of The Elders, an organization of eminent global citizens that works on behalf of peace and human rights. We are proud to honor him and look forward to his continued work on behalf of global health as well as his swearing-in on June 13th, 2022.

Dr. Nkengasong’s Interview in Ghana

Rosa Whitaker, president of Dominion Television, Ghana, had a candid conversation with Dr. Nkengasong, where his wife Susan Nkengasong; a Mental health counselor, also made her first-ever T.V debut interview with her husband, Dr. John Nkengasong.

In his conversation with Rosa Whitaker of Dominion Television Ghana, Dr. Nkengasong delves deep into Africa’s war against COVID, explores the idea of education as a great equalizer, and talks about the establishment of the African CDC (Center for Disease Control).

From left: Dr. Edem Adzogenu, Co-Chair; AfroChampions Initiative, Susan Nkengasong; Mental Health Counselor and wife to Dr. John Nkengasong, Rosa Whitaker; President and Vice-Chair of Dominion Television, Nosisa Doe; General Manager of Dominion Television. Image Source: Dominion Television.

The candid interview of Dr. John Nkengasong will air on Dominion Television on Sunday, June 12, 2022, at 1 PM GMT, with a repeat on Sunday 12th June at 7 PM GMT, and Monday, June 13, 2022, at 7 PM GMT.

Watch the full interview only on Dominion TV; Africa’s Christian Lifestyle Network for Inspired and Empowered Living.

You can also watch the #LIVE premiere on Dominion Television’s YouTube channel on Sunday 12th June at exactly 1 PM GMT.

Join in the conversation using the hashtag #withdrnkengasong

Visit our website @www.dominiontv.net for more inspiring and empowering content.

How to Build your Relationship with God

“Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart” – Jeremiah 29:12-13 NKJV

The Bible identifies God as the universe’s All-Powerful Creator. Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are three divine persons who make up the LORD. He is Holy, loving, and perfect, as well as completely trustworthy and safe. He is the only One who can save us, so you must cultivate a faithful relationship with Him to avoid straying from His Word, and to receive eternal redemption also.

A relationship with God is not a one-time occurrence in which you only talk to Him when you are in trouble. When it comes to building your connection with God, constant communication is crucial. Here are a few ways on how you can remain in touch with God and develop a deeper connection with Him.

Prayer is a great way to communicate with Him daily.

There are numerous ways to interact with people, and there is also a method for communicating with God. His is done through prayer. God wants to hear from you, and He is always willing to listen. Talk to Him as to a friend because prayer is simply talking to God. It is also worth noting that you can talk to God at any time and from any location.

Serve others

As strange as it may seem, one of the best ways to show your love for God is to serve others. Remember that God is a loving Heavenly Father who is grateful when you offer His love.

“Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you since you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’ – Matthew 25:37-40 NKJV

Become acquainted with the Bible by studying it.

Another approach to communicating with God and strengthening your relationship with Him is by making His Word your daily bread. Study the scriptures to learn more, consider what the verse(s) means, and pray for more discernment of God’s will for your life through His Word. Increased understanding of the Word often leads to a deeper connection with God because you get to know Him more. He is the Word.

Remember, the world is simply a fleeting phase that lasts for a short time. You must stick to the Word of God and abide by it to live a life worthy in His eyes, as you wait to abide with Him for all eternity.

Liked this article? Share it with family and friends. Dominion TV; Africa’s Christian Lifestyle Network for Inspired and Empowered Living.

Overcoming Addiction as a Christian

“Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which is God’s” – 1 Corinthians 6: 19- 20 NKJV

Addiction impacts toddlers and teenagers, young people, and elderly men and women alike, and affects people of all ethnicities, demographics, and socioeconomic backgrounds. It varies from person to person since some people battle with addiction more than others. While addictive behaviors share similar neurological and psychological processes and produce pleasurable feelings and sensations, persons attempting to cure an addiction frequently replace such behaviors with other alternatives that may not be healthy.

Addiction, therefore, is a relationship between a person and an object, substance, or activity. The object or activity becomes increasingly important as the addiction progresses, whereas formerly important activities become less important. In the end, addiction is about a complex conflict between acting on an urge and resisting it. The condition has existed since the dawn of time, and society has been trying to develop various remedies for it for nearly as long. As one might expect, some of the previous methods of addiction treatment were less than pleasant, making it even more fortunate that we now live in a society where compassionate care is available. While we do not know everything about how it was treated in the past, there are enough accounts of treatment procedures from the last 300 years to give us a good idea.

It is also worth noting that the recovery process only works if the individual battling addiction acknowledges the problem and the challenge that comes with it.

According to the transtheoretical model of behavior change, any change requires a process that begins with pre-contemplation and progresses to contemplation. You may be in denial about the impacts of your battle with addiction in the early stages of treatment. You may experience feelings of doubt as you become more conscious of the issues you’re dealing with, even as you become more aware of your need to conquer your addiction. However, once you have decided to change, you may start planning your next steps. The length of time it takes to recover varies from person to person based on the severity of the addiction, and it requires a certain amount of consistency to get the desired result, therefore addiction is not a hopeless situation.

Recognizing and accepting the warning symptoms of addiction can be frightening, especially as a Christian living in a society where many are ostracized for the same. Starting to seek addiction treatment is a far more difficult task, however, it is important to mention that there is nothing wrong with seeking help from addiction as a Christian.

Seeking counseling and therapy is one approach to get started with the process as outpatient or inpatient programs are both available. These programs also help you develop and strengthen (healthy) life 樂威壯
skills, as well as provide structure and support for long-term recovery.

Here are some of the approaches or ways you might come across:

Behavioral therapy

This comprises dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and motivational interviewing (MI), which are often done one-on-one. They are designed to change people’s behavior, emotions, and attitudes. They assist you in taking responsibility for your recovery and abstinence. Through this therapy, you can also improve family and close relationship communications and dynamics.

Group psychotherapy

This method, which is facilitated by at least one therapist, creates a space for you to relate to other patients who are dealing with similar problems. This allows you or a loved one to share knowledge and assist other patients. You can use this to create healthy and loving relationships.

Support groups

These provide a secure place in which to discuss personal challenges and addiction issues. After finishing therapy, these organizations provide support and follow-up care. However, they cannot be utilized in place of a strategic, well-planned treatment.

Prayer

Above all, it is important to maintain and continuously work on your relationship with God as a Christian. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 admonishes us that we should care for our body as it is the temple of God. This means avoiding, at all costs, anything that destroys our ability to connect with God. Prayer is one way we can ensure we walk in alignment with God’s purpose for our lives. It is important to constantly study His Word too. You can read more about How to Understand the Word of God Better

No Christian is perfect. Every Christian is battling with something. One of those things could be an addiction, and if that is the case, feel loved, and feel heard. Explore some of these tips and we hope you recover soon.

Want to see more interesting content? Check out our homepage @www.dominiontv.net

How Much Caffeine is Too Much Caffeine?

Caffeine is a stimulant found in several foods and drinks like tea and coffee. Caffeine can also be found in kola nuts and chocolate-flavored snacks. It is quite popular in everyday meals because of its ability to help people regain mental clarity when tired.

An overdose of caffeine can cause a variety of symptoms and side effects such as dizziness, headache, sleeplessness, and fever, among others, which may not appear as serious as vomiting, chest discomfort, and convulsions. Some of these serious symptoms may require urgent medical attention. Caffeine in high dosages may also increase the risk of miscarriage or low birth weight in expectant mothers. It should be limited or avoided entirely during pregnancy.

Coffee and coffee beans. Source: Pexel Photos

However, avoiding caffeine can be difficult because it is a common ingredient in many foods and drinks. According to Mayo Clinic, most healthy persons may tolerate up to 400 milligrams of caffeine per day. Four cups of brewed coffee, ten cans of Coca-Cola, or two “energy shot” drinks have about the same amount of caffeine. Important to mention that caffeine concentration in beverages varies significantly, particularly in energy drinks.

Given this insight into caffeine education, we must take care of our bodies and monitor the amount of caffeine we ingest regularly. However, caffeine affects each individual differently, hence not a one-size-fits-all. It is, therefore, important to learn how your body reacts to it.

Has caffeine consumption ever affected you negatively? Let us know in the comments below.

How to Understand the Word of God Better

“Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation.” – 1 Peter 2:2

1 Peter 2:2 serves to remind us that just as every little child needs milk to grow, every believer should crave spiritual milk to grow in the faith. Believers are encouraged to make the Word of God a priority and must live by it thereby. Furthermore, when believers do this, the Word becomes a lamp unto their feet and a light for their path (Psalms 119:105). How can believers, therefore, better understand God’s Word and reap its blessings and promise of guidance?

By having an intimate relationship with God through His Word. As John 1:1 puts it:

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” – John 1:1

While introducing God as the Word, John’s first verse establishes numerous essential truths, including the Word’s existence from the beginning of creation and the Word’s presence with God, as well as God Himself being the very Word. This means that when we connect with the Word of God, we are connecting with God Himself. This sets a beautiful opportunity to interact with God daily. There are various steps believers can take in their daily lives to ensure they are interacting with God, and building an intimate relationship with Him through His Word. Such include:

1. True repentance

“…but what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart” (that is, the word of faith which we preach): that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth, confession is made unto salvation. – Romans 10:8-11 NKJV

It is critical to profess true repentance because the Bible repeatedly states that sin leads to death and destruction. There are consequences to going against God’s design on how believers should live and obey Him, and destruction completely separates believers from Him and leaves them in disharmony with Him. True repentance allows believers to live in harmony with God and acknowledge His sovereignty in their lives. Additionally, it is only through true repentance that believers can receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit which will lead them into all truth and guide them in the way that they should go, and how they should interact with God’s Word.

2. Having dedicated study time.

The Bible is a spiritual textbook that necessitates time spent studying it. Believers should make bible study regimens just as they make study regimens for academic endeavors. This helps edify the soul and ensures that the believer meditates on the Word day and night.

3. Spending time in prayer

Each believer needs to spend time in prayer before reading the Word of God, asking the Holy Spirit to lead them into all truth as promised in John 16:13. Furthermore, prayer brings the acknowledgment of the fact that scripture is inspired by God Himself. “For the prophecy did not come by the will of man in old-time, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” – 2 Peter 1:21

4. Being diligent.

Believers must be diligent in their study of the Bible. The same diligence practiced in areas of work, education, and daily activities must be applied in greater measure when studying the Word of God. Diligent study and dedication to God’s Word is one way a believer can learn about God’s will for their lives.

5. Practicing the Word.

“Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.” – James 1:23-25

James 1:23-25 explains why we should not only be hearers of the Word, but also doers, for it is through practicing the Word that we become like God.

Each Believer should, therefore, first accept Christ as their personal Savior, pray before reading His Word, endeavor to be diligent in Bible study and finally, practice what the Word of God says. Through this, believers can understand God’s Word better, increase in faith and find true joy in fellowship with God.

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107-Year-Old Massacre Survivor Unveils Secret Weapon

In a world where holding onto unforgiveness and bitterness comes easily, 107-year-old Viola Fletcher, a survivor of the 1921 Tulsa Massacre reminds us, through her vibrant energy, that forgiveness sets the soul free.

107-Year-Old- Viola Fletcher is an American Centenarian who is also one of the three living survivors of the Tulsa Massacre which took place in Greenwood, Tulsa, Oklahoma, U.S, in 1921. Mother Fletcher was only 7 years old at the time of the massacre.

The Tulsa Massacre, also known as the Tulsa riot, is considered one of the worst incidents of racial violence in American history. Attackers burned and destroyed what was one of the wealthiest black communities in the U.S.

According to the National Endowment for Humanity, “Tulsans tried to forget what happened, but it’s much harder for the residents of Greenwood. For Black people, Greenwood is a reminder of the need to stay vigilant”

Mother Fletcher had a candid conversation with our President Rosa Whitaker on the same during an interview at Dominion Television in Ghana.

Dominion Television congratulates Mother Fletcher on being one of the 3 living survivors of the Tulsa massacre who received a shared $1 million from a New York non-profit organization ‘Business for Good’ through its Co-Founder, Ed Mitzen.

Finding Completeness in the Absence of Children | Nosisa’s Story

“Women can be complete without children” – Nosisa Doe

Women deserve to be recognized for their significant contributions to society, great victories, and unrivaled bravery. Despite gender disparities in many fields, women continue to flourish and succeed. As a result, women must be encouraged, motivated, and inspired to keep fighting, rather than being ostracized due to a lack of biological children.

Nosisa is an example of a woman blessed with a child at God’s own time, and an excellent role model for aspiring mothers because she kept loyal to her faith and never gave up on God despite her prolonged waiting period. She believed that God’s timing was always optimal, and therefore, she let go and let God.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) affects 6 to 12 percent of women of reproductive age worldwide. According to research, successful therapy resulting in pregnancy is more likely to occur in the first three to four months of treatment. Several women have shared their tales of childbirth after being diagnosed with the condition, making each birth and conception story a unique one.

Nosisa’s was one very unique story; a tale that every aspiring mother battling with PCOS needs to read. Nosisa, a Zimbabwean, migrated to Ghana at the age of thirty-one after being diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome in her twenties and being informed by three different doctors in three different countries that she would be unable to bear children. She also recounted her difficult time growing up as she never felt good enough. This phase further intensified her feelings, prompting her to doubt her husband’s affirmation of her occasionally.

Before moving to Ghana, Nosisa had a dream where she saw children in a white car; children who belonged to her. However, it remained a dream. She sobbed and questioned God several times following the dream, asking why she could not have children like Hannah in the Bible. Nosisa recalls being stigmatized on several occasions, by various society members asking “Why don’t you try In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)”, or “has your husband explored other options?.”

Such remarks only intensified Nosisa’s displeasure, making her question whether she did something wrong. She felt incomplete. However, this did not shake her faith in God. She grew more vocal with God, citing Isaiah 1:18:

“Come now, let us settle the matter, says the Lord. Even though your sins are as scarlet, they will be as white as snow, and even if they are red as crimson, they will be as wool” – Isaiah 1:18

These words consoled Nosisa during her difficult moments and kept her faith alive. She recognized that no matter what she thought she had done wrong, God was willing to forgive her. As a result, she made positive declarations throughout those trying moments which edified her spiritually and affirmed Christ’s love for her, childless or not.

Aside from consoling herself, she also took the initiative to advise young women in similar situations not to blame themselves for their inability to bear children, teaching them that women can be whole without children and that God does all things perfectly in His own time.

“Have faith and surround yourself with people who proclaim life rather than death,” she would encourage other women.

Her family played a major role in helping her grow past her pain and demonstrated that “family is everything” by being there for her during her most trying period.

“My husband, mother, and mother-in-law were all very supportive. I recall a time when my mother-in-law kept me away from those who made it seem like my husband made a mistake by marrying me” she says.

Nosisa finally gave birth to her first child, a girl, in 2014 at the age of 34, and her second child, a boy, two years later at the age of 36, which she believes was God’s plan. This testimony reaffirmed her faith in God’s will for man, which she described as “perfect” and “perfectly timed.” Interestingly, the children Nosisa gave birth to looked exactly like the children she had seen in her dreams right before moving to Ghana.

“Do not tell people how deep the valley they are in is. Tell them how beautiful it is to be on the tallest mountain.” Nosisa Doe

Nosisa’s words set out to encourage aspiring mothers and women battling with polycystic ovarian syndrome is that there is hope especially when faith is anchored on God.

Are you a young woman who is battling with or has battled with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)? What is your story? Let us know in the comment section. Dominion TV; Africa’s Christian Lifestyle Network for Inspired and Empowered Living.

ARCHBISHOP NICHOLAS DUNCAN-WILLIAMS CELEBRATING 45 YEARS IN MINISTRY, AND 65TH BIRTHDAY HONORING THE VISIONARY, CELEBRATING THE VISION

Dominion Television wishes to thank all those from around the world who joined us in paying tribute to our Founder, Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams on the occasion of his anniversary marking 45 years in ministry and his 65th birthday. From remote villages and State Houses across Africa, expressions of appreciation for the Archbishop poured in. We were truly blessed by the presence and tributes from global ministers and marketplace leaders during the 14-15th May 2022 program themed “Celebrating the Visionary-Honoring the Vision.”

Central to the celebration was recognition of the Archbishop’s pioneering contributions as the Father of the Charismatic Movement in Ghana and other African countries. From Ghana to global reach, his ministry and prayer summits have impacted and transformed countless lives to the glory of God.

Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams is the spiritual Father and coach to many leaders including Heads of State and many public servants; he has authored more than 30 books. Affectionately known as “Papa” and “the Apostle of Strategic Prayer,” the Archbishop’s footprints reverberate. His philanthropy includes scholarships, water, shelter for vulnerable people, and rehabilitation support for those suffering from addictions. His Compassion in Action non-profit organization supports orphans and widows; providing spiritual and physical nourishment for them.

This milestone moment for Archbishop Nicholas Duncan Williams was celebrated in three historic events: a black-tie tribute dinner; a Sunday Founder’s Day service at Action Chapel International in Ghana; and a ‘Highest Praise’ concert thanking God for His many blessings. The Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams started ministry 45 years ago on college campuses in Ghana and used this occasion to officially launch his new ministry movement – Next-Gen – “Back to the Campuses” – a youth leadership development initiative that is being established on college campuses and secondary schools across Ghana with a primary focus on ministry, the market place, and public service.

“It is within our power, reach, and responsibility to impact this generation – birthing, equipping, and disciplining a new community of Christ-like leaders of tomorrow possessing both the spirit of God and academic excellence. This is indeed among the greatest contributions we can make to our country and humanity for legacy and posterity” opined Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams to his birthday and anniversary guests.

“45 years ago, God planted a deep desire in my heart to respond to the urgent cries, calls, and needs of Ghana’s youth. My spirit ached for this community as revelations unfolded about their suffering and significance in God’s plans and purposes for our country. I responded with a resounding “Amen” and my ministry was born on the campuses of Ghana’s colleges and universities.” – N. Duncan-Williams.

Several dignitaries were present at the various events including His Excellency the President of the Republic of Ghana, Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Her Excellency the Vice President of Liberia, Jewell Howard-Taylor, and a VIP Delegation representing former President John Mahama, who was out of the country. Members of the Ambassadorial Corps were also in attendance with High Commissioners and Ambassadors representing Columbia, Sierra Leone, Rwanda, Israel, the USA, South Africa; Kenya, Nigeria, and Suriname.

The Archbishop also received deeply moving tributes from ministry leaders such as Bishop TD Jakes, Apostle Chuck Pierce; Joshua Selman Nimmak, Bishop Noel Jones; Bishop Adam McNatt, and Action Chapel International’s own College of Bishops. Especially moving was the oral history and tribute from Apostle Daniel Kwame Saforo; the 97-year-old last living founder of the Pentecostal Movement in Ghana. The concert hosts MOG and Akesse Brempong were exceptional as were the dinner MCs Michelle Attoh and Nathaniel Attoh.

The Archbishop remains one of Ghana’s most iconic figures who continues to transform communities within his country of birth and beyond. We thank God for his life and continued strength and success.

Dominion TV; Africa’s Christian Lifestyle Network for Inspired and Empowered Living.

107 YEAR-OLD MOTHER VIOLA FLETCHER VISITS GHANA TO MAKE BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES

Some memories are held dearly. Some memories, when perceived are nothing but nightmares we hope to expunge from the eyes of our mind. To most in Ghana, the Tulsa race massacre is neither an episode heard of or seen but to Mother Viola Fletcher, a vile occurrence.

Memories that may never be forgotten oftentimes can be faded by beautiful ones and after 100 years, the shores of Ghana will gift her sweet and unforgettable memories.

It is the dream of every African American to one day visit the motherland and Mother Viola Fletcher and her brother, Hugh Van Ellis (Uncle Redd) who survived the destruction of Greenwood District are no exceptions.

Between 13^th and 21^st, August 2021, Mother Viola and Uncle Redd will have a lifelong dream fulfilled when Ghana welcomes them with open arms. This trip is sponsored by ‘Our Black Truth’, The African Communications Agency, Africa Legacy Fund and United Airlines.

Mother Fletcher and Uncle Redd will arrive in Ghana on 14^th August 2021 and will be officially welcomed by the Ghana officials of the Diaspora African Forum (DAF).

Mother Fletcher and Uncle Redd will tour the City of Cape Coast, exploring the castles and dungeons where slaves were kept during the trans-Atlantic slave trade. Cape Coast is known for its role in the trans-Atlantic slave trade, being the largest slave-trading site in West Africa at the time. It will surely be an emotional experience where they will feel ‘in touch with their roots and history when they stand in the ‘Door of No Return’

As part of their tour in Ghana, Mother Fletcher and Uncle Redd will fly to Kumasi in the Ashanti Region of Ghana where they will meet the Asantehene, King of the Ashanti people in the Manhyia Palace. The Ashanti empire was known for its military prowess, wealth and natural resources; most notably, gold and cocoa. The Ashanti kingdom holds a place in history as a sub-Saharan African kingdom that was able to defeat the British in some wars. The kingdom has been studied extensively by a lot of Western historians and anthropologists due to its sophisticated political structure and vibrant culture. Being a symbol of the strength and independence of the African, Mother Fletcher and Uncle Redd will be able to connect once again with a thriving African community like Greenwood District in Tulsa was.

According to H.E. Ambassador Erieka Bennett, Head of Mission at the Diaspora Africa Forum, Mother Fletcher and Uncle Redd will place wreaths on the grave of Dr W. E. B Dubois and place names of their ancestors on the Sankofa Wall which is a memorial established in Ghana by the Diaspora Africa Forum. Mother Viola Fletcher and Uncle Redd will also be receiving gifts from a host of other African nations who is looking forward to their arrival.

Most prevailing is the narrative that Dr Kwame Nkrumah is arguably the most influential political leader Africa has produced hence, a tour to Ghana would be incomplete without visiting the Kwame Nkrumah memorial. The memorial houses the body of Dr Kwame Nkrumah and his wife, Fathia Nkrumah. Being the spot where Dr Nkrumah declared the Independence of Ghana, the mausoleum epitomizes liberation, independence and redemption.

In addition, they will be welcomed at the Jubilee House by President Nana Akuffo-Addo and his vice Dr Bawumia. Mother Fletcher’s dream to fellowship at an African Church will be fulfilled when she worships at Action Chapel International; Prayer Cathedral. We at Dominion Television hope her journey to Ghana will be a fulfilling one and create memories of joy and happiness. Mother Fletcher and Uncle Redd’s visit to Ghana will be covered exclusively by Dominion Television, Channel 352 on DStv and 168 on GoTv Ghana.

WHY YOU SHOULDN’T LISTEN TO SECULAR MUSIC

I haven’t met a person with an aversion to music. The right combination of instruments, voices and lyrics birth a masterpiece that lingers in our minds for hours and days. It is comparable to food; the right recipe produces remarkable taste. What’s worth noting, however, is that the quality of food isn’t solely dependent on its taste but its effect on health. I opine that good food should have good taste and have positive effects on our health. The same reasoning applies to music; true musical satisfaction can only be the effect of a great sound and a message healthy enough for our minds.

Humans like to define and categorize things to ease the complexities of selection. The music industry is one of the victims of the said categorization. The industry denotes its categorization by the word ‘genre.’ Usually, the definitive feature of a genre is its sound and instrumentation, and R&B, Hip-hop, soul, and rock are a few examples. Gospel or Christian music is one of the few if not the only genre defined by its message. The problem this creates for Christians is that it splits the industry into two: gospel and secular. This phenomenon is only problematic because of the tendency for Christians to limit Christian music not just by its message but by its sound too. The apparent segregation of gospel and secular music results in the Christian community associating a particular sound with gospel music, thus neglecting all other music without this sound even when the messages are Christian.

For the sake of clarity, when I refer to Christian music in subsequent paragraphs, I’m not limiting it to music that is sung in church by a choir. I am also not referring to Christian music as music with Christian references and words like ‘Hallelujah, Amen, Jesus, Holy Spirit, Savior, etc. Christian music is music whose message conforms to Christian values, message, and direction. The lack of Christian references isn’t what makes a song secular. Secular music draws you further away from Christian virtues with its message. Songs that promote misogyny, racism, violence, indiscriminate sex, lust are not healthy for consumption.

WHAT CAN WE LISTEN TO

Phi 4:8 KJV

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

As said earlier, music affects the mind. Songs can influence your thoughts and change your perspective on life. Therefore we need to be our own judges of what we can listen to. We shouldn’t categorize songs as gospel just because it is sung in church nor should we write off a song we heard on the street as secular just because the lyrics did not mention God or Jesus.

Our decision on what we can and should listen to must stem from what the word of God says. From what we see in Philippians 4:8, we must endeavor to listen to music that will influence us to think about things that are lovely, pure, virtuous, and of good report. It is safe to listen to music that will influence our thinking in such a manner. Any form of music that does not induce positive thoughts and actions should not be entertained.

THE INFLUENCE

There’s a reason why adverts, rallies, political campaigns, funerals and other programs employ music is to set the mood. Music has the power to make you act in accordance to whatever mood or message the song is propagating. The more you listen to negativity, the more you allow yourself to be engulfed in a negative atmosphere. Listening to music that supports sex, drugs, violence and other vices would in time slave you into practicing the same. Ensure that you listen to positive music, to maintain a positive mentality and the energy necessary for your spiritual well-being to go about your day. Wondering where you can have access to such quality music? Right here on Dominion Tv.

Author

Kobina Oduro Korankye