Geopolitics and World's Indifference to African Problems

Sudan’s Silent Struggle: A Call for Global Eyes on Khartoum

 

In the shadow of global headlines dominated by crises in Ukraine and Gaza, the war in Sudan has been, shrouded in the veils of neglect. The clash between the Sudanese Armed Forces, led by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, under the command of Hemedti, which erupted on a fateful day during Ramadan in 2023, has been relegated to the middle and back pages of many news headlines as the world remains largely oblivious to the turmoil, as if Sudan’s struggle were a mere footnote in the grand narrative of international affairs.

 

While the plight of nations caught in geopolitical crossfires demands attention, it is crucial to question the selective nature of global focus. Sudan’s capital, Khartoum, and the beleaguered Darfur region have become battlegrounds, echoing with the cries of a population caught between rival factions within the military government. The streets, once filled with the spirit of unity during the revolution that ousted Omar al-Bashir, now bear witness to a discord that threatens to unravel the very fabric of Sudanese society.

 

As the world turns its gaze elsewhere, it is imperative to critically assess the consequences of this war on the ground. Lives are lost, families are torn apart, and displacement becomes a harsh reality for countless innocent civilians. The urgency of the situation demands that we lift the veil of indifference and acknowledge the human cost of this conflict.

 

In the face of such devastation, one cannot help but question the silence of the African continent and the African Union. Regional solidarity and collective action should be the bedrock of Africa’s response to Sudan’s turmoil. It is high time for African nations to recognize their responsibility in fostering stability within the continent and to stand united against internal strife.

 

The African Union, as a key player in regional diplomacy, must take a proactive stance in mediating between the warring factions. Diplomatic pressure, coupled with a commitment to finding a peaceful resolution, can pave the way for a Sudanese-led reconciliation process. By leveraging its influence, the African Union can amplify the voices of those silenced by the clash of arms and advocate for a ceasefire that allows for humanitarian aid to reach the affected regions.

 

While the world is preoccupied with crises that dominate the headlines, we must not allow Sudan’s struggle to be relegated to the shadows. It is a call to action, urging us to prioritize humanity over geopolitics, to recognize that every conflict, no matter its scale, leaves a lasting imprint on the lives of those caught in its crossfire.

 

Let us not be blind to Sudan’s silent cries. Instead, let our collective conscience demand that we extend our gaze beyond the well-trodden paths of international attention. The African Union and its member states must rise to the occasion, demonstrating that African solutions can indeed address African challenges. It is only through unity, empathy, and a commitment to peace that Sudan can emerge from the shadows of war into a brighter, more hopeful future.

MARRIAGE AS A FORM OF FREEDOM

How to Escape the Prison of a Bad Marriage

Marriage is a beautiful institution, designed by God to reflect His love and grace to the world. It is a covenant of mutual commitment, respect, and sacrifice, where two people become one flesh and share their lives together. Marriage is also a gift, a source of joy, and a means of growth and sanctification.

But what if your marriage feels like a prison? What if you feel trapped, unhappy, and unfulfilled in your relationship? What if you long for the freedom and excitement of your single days, when you could do whatever you wanted, whenever you wanted, with whomever you wanted?

If you are in this situation, you might be tempted to think that you made a mistake in choosing your spouse, or that you deserve better, or that you have fallen out of love. You might be looking for a way out, a divorce, or an affair. You might be blaming your spouse for your misery, or yourself, or God.

But before you take any drastic steps, let me suggest that the problem is not with your marriage, but with your perspective. You see, if your marriage feels like imprisonment, you have either not matured enough for marriage or your perspective on marriage is deeply flawed and secular that you want to retain the freedom of a single life within marriage.

Let me explain.

Maturity Matters

Marriage is not for the immature. It requires a lot of wisdom, patience, humility, and self-control. It demands that you put the needs and interests of another person above your own. It challenges you to grow in character, faith, and love.

But many people enter marriage with unrealistic expectations, selfish motives, and childish attitudes. They think that marriage will make them happy, fulfil their dreams, and solve their problems. They think that marriage is all about romance, passion, and fun. They think that marriage is easy, effortless, and automatic.

They are wrong.

Marriage is hard work. It involves a lot of compromise, communication, and conflict resolution. It exposes your flaws, weaknesses, and sins. It requires a lot of grace, forgiveness, and healing. It tests your faith, hope, and love.

If you are not ready to face these challenges, if you are not willing to change, grow, and learn, if you are not prepared to die to yourself and live for another, then you are not mature enough for marriage.

And if you are not mature enough for marriage, then your marriage will feel like imprisonment. You will feel frustrated, bored, and resentful. You will feel like you are missing out on life, like you are wasting your time, like you are losing your identity. You will feel like you are in a cage, and you will want to escape.

But the solution is not to break free from your marriage, but to grow up in your marriage. You need to realize that marriage is not about you, but about God and your spouse. You need to understand that marriage is not a contract, but a covenant. You need to accept that marriage is not a fairy tale, but a journey.

You need to mature.

Perspective Matters

Marriage is not only a human institution, but a divine one. It was created by God, for God, and to God. It is a reflection of His nature, a representation of His relationship, and a revelation of His purpose. It is a picture of Christ and the church, a partnership for the kingdom, and a platform for the glory of God.

But many people have a secular view of marriage, influenced by the culture, the media, and the world. They think that marriage is a social construct, a personal choice, and a human right. They think that marriage is about happiness, compatibility, and convenience. They think that marriage is flexible, optional, and disposable.

They are wrong.

Marriage is sacred, permanent, and exclusive. It is a holy union, a lifelong commitment, and a faithful bond. It is about holiness, covenant, and service. It is a divine design, a divine calling, and a divine responsibility.

If you have a secular perspective on marriage, then your marriage will feel like imprisonment. You will feel dissatisfied, restless, and ungrateful. You will feel like you are missing the point, like you are living a lie, like you are disobeying God. You will feel like you are in a trap, and you will want to escape.

But the solution is not to abandon your marriage, but to renew your perspective. You need to see your marriage as God sees it, as a gift, a blessing, and a privilege. You need to value your marriage as God values it, as a treasure, a mystery, and a testimony. You need to honour your marriage as God honours it, as a witness, a ministry, and a worship.

You need to change your perspective.

Freedom Matters

Marriage is not a prison, but a liberation. It frees you from the bondage of sin, the tyranny of self, and the deception of the world. It frees you to love, serve, and honour God and your spouse. It frees you to experience, enjoy, and express the fullness of God’s grace and glory.

But many people confuse freedom with license, autonomy, and independence. They think that freedom means doing whatever they want, whenever they want, with whomever they want. They think that freedom means having no boundaries, no obligations, and no accountability. They think that freedom means being single in marriage.

They are wrong.

Freedom is not the absence of restraint, but the presence of purpose. Freedom is not the ability to choose, but the power to obey. Freedom is not the right to indulge, but the privilege to sacrifice. Freedom is not being single in marriage, but being one in marriage.

If you want to retain the freedom of a single life within marriage, then your marriage will feel like imprisonment. You will feel restricted, limited, and oppressed. You will feel like you are losing your freedom, like you are giving up your rights, like you are surrendering your will. You will feel like you are in a prison, and you will want to escape.

But the solution is not to reclaim your freedom, but to redefine your freedom. You need to realize that freedom is not about you, but about God and your spouse. You need to understand that freedom is not a selfish pursuit, but a selfless gift. You need to embrace that freedom is not a single life, but a married life.

You need to enjoy your freedom.

Conclusion

If your marriage feels like imprisonment, don’t despair, don’t give up, and don’t run away. Instead, mature, change, and enjoy. Grow up in your marriage, renew your perspective, and redefine your freedom. Escape the prison of a bad marriage, and enter the paradise of a good marriage.

Remember, marriage is not a prison, but a liberation. It is a beautiful institution, a divine design, and a glorious gift. It is a covenant of mutual commitment, respect, and sacrifice, where two people become one flesh and share their lives together. It is a source of joy, a means of growth, and a platform for worship.

Marriage is a blessing, not a curse. Marriage is a freedom, not a prison.

THE SUPREME BAN

Kenya’s Supreme Court: A Comedy of Errors in the Theatre of Justice

In a scene worthy of Kafka, the Kenyan Supreme Court has decided to silence a lawyer, Mr. Ahmednasir Abdullahi, for his outspoken criticism of the Judiciary. To say this is an affront to freedom of expression is like calling the Grand Canyon a pothole. It’s a chasm, a gaping maw of injustice that threatens to swallow the very essence of a democratic society.

Imagine, if you will, a football match where the fans are banned from booing the referee, even for the most egregious offside call. Can you picture the pent-up frustration, the simmering resentment? That, my friends, is the atmosphere you create when you try to silence dissent, especially in the hallowed halls of justice.

Or, imagine a world where doctors who diagnose illness are banned from treating patients. Where artists who paint flaws in society are forbidden to exhibit their work. Where journalists who expose corruption are silenced by the very pen they wield. This, in essence, is what the Supreme Court has done to Mr. Abdullahi. His criticism, however harsh, falls squarely within the fundamental right to freedom of expression, enshrined not just in Kenya’s Constitution, but in the very fabric of a democratic society.

Mr. Abdullahi’s crime, it seems, is his sharp tongue and unsparing critique of judges he believes are corrupt. Now, let’s be clear: accusing someone of corruption is a serious matter. But here’s the thing, in a functioning democracy, such accusations are not met with censorship, they’re met with scrutiny. If the judges have clean hands, as they so vehemently claim, then why fear the light of public criticism? Shouldn’t they welcome the opportunity to clear their names?

The Supreme Court’s decision is not just an affront to Mr. Abdullahi, it’s an insult to every Kenyan who values a free and vibrant democracy. It’s a declaration that criticism, however pointed, is not welcome in the hallowed halls of justice. It’s a chilling reminder that the road to silencing dissent is paved with good intentions, but leads to a graveyard of liberty. The ban on the Grand Mullah, as Mr. Abdullahi likes to call himself, reeks of a banana republic more than a beacon of justice. It smacks of a desperate attempt to silence a thorn in their side, a critic who dared to hold the mirror up to their alleged flaws.

But let us not forget, the right to free expression is enshrined in the very fabric of the Kenyan Constitution. Article 35(1) declares: “Every person has the right to freedom of expression, which includes freedom to hold opinions and to receive and disseminate information.” This is not just some feel-good clause, it’s the bedrock of a free and open society.

And to those who argue that Mr. Abdullahi’s words might damage the reputation of the Judiciary, I say this: a reputation earned through censorship is like a trophy won through cheating. It’s hollow, meaningless, and ultimately, unsustainable.

The true strength of any institution, including the Judiciary, lies in its ability to withstand criticism, to engage in open debate, and to emerge stronger from the crucible of dissent. Silencing Mr. Abdullahi is not just an attack on him; it’s an attack on every Kenyan’s right to speak their mind. It’s a chilling message that dissent is not tolerated, that questioning authority is a dangerous game.

So let me be clear: the Supreme Court’s decision is not just wrong, it’s an embarrassment. It’s a stain on the Kenyan flag, a betrayal of the very values this nation was built upon. And let us not forget the words of Justice William Brennan of the US Supreme Court: “To punish a person for expressing a critical view is to punish the critic for the government’s own failure to tolerate criticism.”

This is not the end of the story, my friends. This is just the intermission. The curtain has risen on a new act, a play where the stakes are high, and the audience is restless. Let the voices of dissent ring out, let the pen mightier than the sword continue its fight. For in the end, the only way to silence the truth is to bury it, and burying the truth is a sure-fire way to suffocate the soul of a nation.

So, let the Supreme Court have their gag orders and their pronouncements. We, the people, have our voices. And we will use them, loud and clear, until justice prevails. Let this be a reminder, Kenya: the theatre of justice is not a closed door affair, it’s a public spectacle where the audience has a right to boo, to hiss, and to demand a better performance. The show must go on, and we, the people, are the critics who will not be silenced.

NEVER CHEAT NO MATTER THE SITUATION

When Hearts Collide: Tending the Sacred Orchard of Marriage.

Imagine marriage as a sun-dappled orchard, where two saplings, chosen with youthful hope and trembling joy, intertwine their roots and reach for the sky. The soil is rich with laughter, forgiveness, and whispered secrets. Sunlight filters through a canopy of shared dreams, casting dappled patterns of joy and sorrow on the fertile ground. But like any garden, marriage demands constant tending. Weeds of anger and resentment threaten to choke the tender shoots of trust, and storms of misunderstanding leave scars on the bark of love.

Now, picture a trespasser – a stranger with calloused hands and greedy eyes, drawn by the sweet scent of ripe promises. In a moment of weakness, one partner, parched by a perceived drought of affection, considers letting this stranger step over the fence, offering a forbidden sip of a different fruit.

But hold! Before that fateful step is taken, consider the cost. To cheat, even in the heat of anger, hurt, or loneliness, is to plant a bitter seed, poisonous to the very roots of marriage. It’s like severing a branch, not just depriving your partner of its shade, but weakening the entire structure, making it vulnerable to the harshest gales.

Remember, anger and tears are like summer storms, necessary for the garden to breathe. Hurt, when acknowledged and nurtured with compassion, can become fertile ground for deeper understanding. These turbulent emotions, though challenging, are internal, contained within the sacred orchard of your commitment. To bring in an outsider is not just to betray a vow, but to invite a predator into a sanctuary built on trust and vulnerability.

Instead, face the storms together. Weather the droughts of frustration with the refreshing spring of open communication. Prune the weeds of resentment with the sharp sickle of forgiveness. For even the sturdiest oak was once a fragile sapling, nurtured through sunshine and rain, nurtured by the unwavering commitment of its roots to one another.

And remember, dear spouse, you are not just partners in this orchard, but co-creators. The soil you till, the seeds you sow, the branches you prune – all shape the haven you share. So tend it with care, with laughter and tears, with whispered apologies and fierce forgiveness. Guard its borders not with fear, but with the unwavering knowledge that the sweetest fruits, the most fragrant blossoms, can only flourish within the walls of your shared commitment.

For in the end, marriage is not just a haven, but a masterpiece. A tapestry woven with threads of shared stories, laughter lines etched by countless jokes, and scars of battles fought and won together. And like any masterpiece, it deserves respect, protection, and unwavering dedication. So choose, in the heat of every storm, to nurture the garden you’ve built, not to abandon it for the fleeting mirage of an alien orchard. For, within the walls of your love, lies a paradise unlike any other, waiting to be nurtured, cherished, and eternally enjoyed.

Now, go forth, hand in hand, and tend your sacred orchard. Let it be a testament to the enduring power of love, a whisper of hope in a world that often forgets the beauty of two souls intertwined. And remember, even the sturdiest oak started as a tiny seed, held precious in the palm of someone who believed in its magic. Believe in yours, too. 

Couples' New Year Wisdom

Conquering the First Frontier: Starting the Year as a Christian Couple

A brand new year gleams like a freshly-minted coin, possibilities dancing in its silver sheen. For Christian couples, it’s not just a calendar change, it’s a fresh canvas to paint a masterpiece of love, faith, and, yes, even a dash of holy hilarity. So, grab your finest spiritual paintbrushes and let’s tackle this joint venture called “Starting the Year as One.”

 

Firstly, ditch the “resolution blues.” Forget those gym memberships you’ll inevitably abandon by February. Instead, vow to flex your spiritual muscles together. Join a Bible study, not as competitors, but as co-pilots navigating the celestial map. Discuss sermons over Sunday brunch, turning theological nuggets into playful banter (“Honey, did the pastor say ‘agape’ or ‘appetizer’?”). Be each other’s accountability partners, gently reminding each other that prayer shouldn’t be a dusty corner of your phone.

 

Speaking of phones, let’s address the elephant in the digital room. Technology, a blessing and a curse, can be a marital minefield. So, establish boundaries. Carve out “phone-free zones” where conversation reigns supreme, be it over candlelit dinners or cozy board game nights. Remember, your spouse is more fascinating than any Instagram reel, their eyes hold more depth than any TikTok challenge.

 

Now, let’s talk goals. Ditch the generic “be more patient” and dream big. Plan a mission trip together, volunteer at a local shelter, or embark on a pilgrimage to a place of spiritual significance. Share your aspirations with God, not as a shopping list, but as an open invitation for His divine orchestra to play its masterpiece in your lives.

 

Remember, humour is the stainless steel coating of any good marriage. Laugh at yourselves, at life’s inevitable mishaps, and even at the occasional theological debate that gets a little heated (“Honey, I’m pretty sure Noah didn’t pack two unicorns on the ark!”). Laughter is a bridge, not a wall, and it can carry you through the toughest storms.

 

Finally, nurture your individual flames within the shared bonfire of your marriage. Pursue your passions, support each other’s dreams, and celebrate each other’s victories. Remember, a strong marriage isn’t about two halves merging into one bland cookie; it’s about two whole cookies dancing a delicious duet.

 

So, dear Christian couple, as you embark on this fresh year, remember, you’re not just two ships in the night. You’re a fleet, sailing hand-in-hand towards a shared horizon, guided by the stars of faith, fuelled by the laughter of love, and ready to conquer whatever waves may come. And don’t forget to pack your sense of humour – it’s the life jacket that keeps you afloat when things get a little choppy.

 

Happy New Year, fellow voyagers! May your love story be the most epic saga of 2024. Now, go forth and paint your masterpiece, one prayer, one laugh, one shared dream at a time.