WHY I WON’T CONSERVE ENERGY

Lately there has been a lot of noise about energy conservation by the energy commission and other stakeholders in the energy sector. But frankly I don't see a need for that. I don't see what energy I would be conserving when I barely get enough. I have outlined some reasons why I think the energy conservation campaign is a fail right from take-off.

How will it benefit me?
The campaign for energy conservation did not start today. Ever since the energy crisis began, ECG and other energy stakeholders have been calling on Ghanaians to conserve energy. You would imagine by now, a consumer would have made some gains but that is not the case.

For example I pay my electricity bills promptly and after three months of these never ending power outages. I don’t see any difference. I have always by ECGs suggestion turned off all appliances that I do not use at a particular time.

With the exception of weekends that I am barely at home, I iron my clothes on weekends and try as much as possible to unplug gadgets that I do not use. So then I ask all this for what? Is it yielding any results? Nooooooo

Where does my saved energy go to?
Well I don’t believe everyone is buying into the idea so what happens to those saving energy. Are we doing it for the industries or for some individuals who are on the lookout for the extra?

Sometimes when I see people wasting energy I can’t help but feel my efforts are wasted. Why should I be conserving energy I ask? Don’t even start with the “do your part thingy”. There is no mechanism in place for ECG to determine which customer is saving more energy and as such does not have to suffer from the ever famous (Dumsor). Is this fair enough?.

Maybe when I know for sure my saved energy is being of benefit to me. Then I wouldn’t my part in this campaign is for nothing.

Dumsor
This needs no introduction, but I have to mention it. Why should I conserve energy when even after following through with the campaign for energy conservation, my power still goes out? This is not enough motivation. The call, although in the right direction, lacks merit. It’s just like asking someone to save food when they barely get 3 square meals a day. Shouldn't the ECG and the energy commission be ashamed to ask people to conserve energy?

For now, the situation majority of Ghanaians find themselves with regard to the energy crisis is not conducive to request energy conservation. Anyway, when I have enough and I can be assured of constant electricity flow when I take the pains to conserve, then perhaps I would be motivated to join the campaign again. For now I am going to use as much energy as I can.


Although I believe it is a laudable initiative that needs to be supported, I don’t think now is the right time.

Does God belong to only Ghana

The sooner Ghanaians realise they do not own God, the better . Why ? Because I'm tired of this sickening attitude of believing God belongs to just a group of people or Ghana to be precise .

Well,If you happen to read this piece , Know that i'm only confirming what you probably know; that  God is universal and despite your religious inclination or affiliations, you are bounded by this All defining truth .

 Its just annoying when some people hijack the name of God !!! even if they're being stupid...excuse my french.. ! Anyway as we wait for the black stars first match , I honestly wish enthusiastic fans of our National team will focus on the players performance and commitment on the pitch. And not to hope for some divine intervention from God .

Like I said in the beginning, God is universal and doesn't have favorites at least not in a tournament where each participating country is given equal opportunity to prove their worth. Want to bet why Ghana is not Gods favourite....I can factor some reasons why I think contrary . get REAL people.competitions are won on performance though not necessarily, but very crucial. !!!! Shalom . Peace !!!

STOLEN IDEA

Congratulations to winners of the recent Ghana movie awards . They've worked hard over the year and I believe each recipient deserved it. Like many of the award ceremonies organized in Ghana , none is free from controversy , and this time around it's my concern about statuettes presented to winners of the various award categories.The reason being it's striking resemblance with the the statuettes of Americas academy movies award.It maybe  a coincidence or maybe not.The organizers still have a question to answer regardless . 

But I just couldn't overlook the parity. And it immediately reinforced in me,the widespread notion of our lack of creativity and originality in the film and art industry. frankly, it's  a huge disappointment unless perhaps what I found on the internet regarding the design is not true , which I highly doubt. A picture they say speaks a thousand words , thus the picture below.

Academy Movie Award Statuette:Photo: EPA

The Academy movie award statuette

popularly known as Oscar was designed by Cedric Gibbons as a symbol of achievement in film making .

According to the Academy movie website,the statuette is made of Britannia metal, plated in copper, nickel silver, and 24-karat gold; Height: 13½ inches, Weight: 8½ pounds .it is the most recognized trophy in the world of film making. The Oscar statuette has stood on the mantels of the greatest filmmakers in history since 1929.

My curiosity intensified when I browsed the organizers website in hope of finding information about the statuettes . Guess what ? I Couldn't find any. The page is static and you can check it out yourself at www.ghanamovieawards.com. I couldn't navigate through the website or find any relevant information of my quest.I don't believe I'm the only one asking questions. Organizers need to provide information about the concept  and design of the 'Ghana movie awards statuettes to at least dispel the notion of our lack of originality and creativity .Presently there is no information and my search on the various search engines returned with an empty "query box".

A Ghana Movie Award Statuettes: Picture culled from Ameyaw Debrah

Welcoming The New Year

While some have taken it upon themselves to sound the trumpets and make glorious noise with the intention of shaking the very foundation of heaven to welcome the new year 2014. Some have booked their seats at pubs, night clubs and drinking spots ;partying and grooving, like Sarkodie will say .. What else !! 

A walk around some parts of my neighborhood , though predominantly Muslims , one could hear all kinds of songs of praises from the few churches scattered around. I'm not going into details of the kind of dance moves which are being exhibited but your guesses are as good as mine . 

From some few drinking spots , one could hear the Tonga song blaring loudly to patrons who are dancing like they've been possessed by some kind of dancing spirit. They are welcoming the new year in their own way. Here too, you only need to see the dance moves.hehehehe

Whatever it is we are welcoming.. Let's celebrate in moderation . You don't have to keep your neighbor awake against his will just because you are welcoming the new year . You don't have to drink yourself to stupor just because you want to show the world how excited you are . Anyway Happy New Year to all friendly neighbors and of course distant ones . 

New Year Nuisance

Sitting here within auditory range to all sounds of firecrackers go off with it's accompanying sounds of po po po po pa pa pa boom boom ..and shaking my head . Apart from the fact that i see it as a complete public nuisance and disturbance of public peace . I find it amusing . Very amusing . You know why . Well I will tell you in a bit . 

In the midst of the economic crunch the country currently faces . People still find it prudent to spend their hard earned cash on firecrackers. Now I'm not saying we all face the same economic problem..At least somebody is making a windfall out of it."market is booming "says a lady who sells firecrackers in my neighborhood.I'm also not saying you can't celebrate the new year but at least some decency will do. Apply the neighbors code in your jolly making. Some moderation please!!!! . Some of us are trying to catch some sleep and meet the new year the following morning in peace . 

Besides the fact that I see it as a total waste of money . It's comes with some needless fright which could send a person with a heart problem to the hospital. I thought the police issued a directive on a ban on firecrackers this festive season. Well, some things are just theories especially when it comes to my neighborhood . 

Is it just me who finds our weird celebration of the new year as a problem or ignorance has eaten deep into us that we hardly recognize anything decent anymore .

I guess until 12am GMT  . I would have to tolerate this irritating sound and keep awake till the new year meets me wide awake . 

POETRY:Spark of Hope

In the heart of the moon is a spark of hope. 

That spark which keeps the shine at it's speak in the night .

Proudly spreads the shine across the dark spots of unknown lands .

And it says to itself look  ... Look .. I'm shining .

I'm sharing my spark to a heart which resonates  with mine.

And I will keep the shine in their heart as long as they need it

Poetry: Voice of Indebted servitude

Mama works too hard .. Cos no Pa

But I'm going to be her savior . 

Little did I know She had sold me to the sailor .. 

My dreams came crashing

like I've been pushed off the ladder 

My weak body is about to go through grave danger ...

 If I don't survive this .. Say hello to the undertaker .

My master always holding the whip. If I talk ... It will be a day to suffer 

Reflections in the mirror ... Could it have gotten any better 

Working through the storms , wondering .. Is there really a savior . 

Is anybody out there listening to the songs of sorrow ... 

Teary eyes --- would there be a day called tomorrow . 

Sunset

Self-Styled Beggars

The growing number of beggars in the city is becoming alarming. The annoying part is , they are fit to engage in any productive economic activity.

Has anyone come across these type of beggars . The ones who go like "Well, I'm looking for someone in this neighborhood ( depending on your neighborhood.. Of course  ) but didn't find them . I'm short of money . Can you please help me with the transport fare back home"

When you give them a grim face like I always do...lol. They instantly get the picture and know you are aware of their game..hehehehe . Sometimes they quickly disappear in smoke screen ... Or wait to see if their "pathetic" story will convince you to part with some cash.anyway ,beware of the new begging technique .. 

Voice of frustration... Part One

Really really really ECG. What is the excuse this time . What is it about the sudden power cuts in some areas for. This pocket of light outs  across the country is a cause for concern and I just want to get "friendly" with this incompetence like you've ever been ..SMH . I don't want to believe you haven't exhausted all your excuses by now . What now huh .... What? Is it about monopoly then ? If not ,what ?

the annoying part is you do it so blatantly with no regards to how your customers feel . I want to believe it's only in Ghana utility providers decide to cut service at will and at their own convenience . 

Attention Seeker

I encountered an embarrassing moment sometime ago at the library when a colleague tried to be rude to me .It could have gotten murkier, but I restrained myself knowing exceptionally well the consequences of my reactions. It's frustrating when you try to respect every person you meet. Some people still find the excuse of using offensive words just to get you down. I did not take it personally because I believe I am more matured to engage in a fray which will only give me bad publicity. I had to continue with my mission in the library. Later, I had a fun chit chat with a friend who came later. It was worth the laugh. I have had previous experiences I had promised myself not to allow any woman to provoke me. not at any time. I am glad I have always had the upper hand in situations like this. I have dreams to fulfill.

My Observation : The Pulpit Show

What does TV3 "the pulpit show" seek to achieve . I thought being a preacher was a calling , never knew it was a craft of eloquence and mimicking existing clergy .what message are they sending out.. This does not uphold biblical rationality of the " chosen" . At the end of the day . All one has to do is learn the craft of speaking and effortlessly quote the scripture. I'm amazed how intrigued the audience seem to be watching these kids mimic and exhibit what they see their preachers do. Tv3 come again .

Reflections of a Hostile Democracy

Ghana is experiencing a hostile political scene in recent times. The intolerant nature of our politics has turned Ghana into a waiting time bomb.opposing views are seen as contaminated and ferociously counted with extreme invectives.I always wondered how that has ever sustained a point of view. Indeed no one needs to be told of the dire repercussions it has on our "type" of democracy.That is if we ever had any. The margin of error in our democracy rivals a few African countries. But that notwithstanding we are still facing the "representative test"

I believe that in any meaningful democratic society. The people's voice has to synchronize with government policies.but What do we see today ?Do we even have the eyes ?!!. Is the government genuinely listening to the “ Voice” of the people. What steps are we the citizens taking to ensure the government listens to us ,the masses.

I have pondered over this on several occasions.And have realized that,the illusion of democracy we are living has stalled any pragmatic views or opinions on policy and governance to be shared.This has denied us a powerful united voice capable of bringing the government to its knees.

Successive governments have ruled this country in the same illusion, and they  maintain this illusion with the media propagandists working tirelessly for them.You would wonder why ?but why not!!!they have an excuse to protect their monopoly on every issue that affects the economy  as long as it grants them absolute control. I have realized no one really has a voice .Its a mere rhetoric to make the ordinary citizen feel important in a way. 

Is Faith Enough?

Some time ago, I had a discussion with a friend in whom a religious and spiritual person is. The debate took us to the depth of religion . But i will be brief on my observation. we discussed about how it has reduced to a place where people showcase what they own. Whatever it is.Be it money, fashion style or just sheer arrogance. Of course, everyone knows this including those who do it. And one more thing . This issue cuts across all religions and secular organizations .

Anyway my concern and the question I want to ask my brothers and sisters out there is. Does all the structures built to worship God add any spiritual significance to the soul of the worshiper? This leads to the question whether religion is about spirituality or religiosity? I have always wondered why in many cases worshipers are promised heaven just to part with the last pesewa they may have. In some instances believing it will be replenished in folds just by having faith.faith? Really!!! I don't have any qualms with religion. Just before you Jump into conclusion and charge me with heresy.Let's do some analysis.

Majority of faithful worshipers are technically poor, and I will not be
surprised if some borrow just to make an offering at the worship centres. Now don't get me wrong as my issue has nothing to do about offering or alms but those who give .

now the crux of the issue is if you've ever heard these preachers asking people to give out even their last pesewas just to make it heaven is least surprising, Sometimes I wonder what it would take for the preachers and religious leaders to rather offer help to the poor instead of taking from them. Is this what God truly wants. Well I leave it to you to make your own judgements.

CONSCIOUS AWAKENING

First and foremost I would like to thank the creator for giving me breath and this opportunity to express my personal thoughts and opinions.

Until now I have been a passive observer of happenings around me. I recently had some interactions with certain people which has greatly influenced me in a positive way. In my interactions, I  realized I have been wasting my time thinking too much and doing little to promote the progress I want to achieve as an individual and a citizen of this country. Despite the fact that I strive to make a conscious effort in this regard, I have been faced with restraining thought patterns which has prevented me from expressing my self. Although I do that often in solitude.

Today has been an awakening for me after listening to a lecture by Dr. Sekou Nkrumah, son of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and Mr. Abubakar Ahmed otherwise known as Blakk Rasta. The main topic for discussion was Pan Africanism and I believe they did justice to the topic. I have listened to similar lectures over the years and also taken great inspiration from Lenon Honor for his conscious and spirituality lectures but this particular lecture has pushed me to make a self-assessment as an African youth and my choices as a citizen of the world. I have learnt a lot from this lecture which has inspired me to express a few thoughts on Africanism.

One thing I have realized is that learning the truth is stranger than fiction in any African context. And this is typical of my African brothers and sisters’. I’ve been well-informed on certain aspects of Africanism and i am content with the experience. I have realized from the lecture that a lot of Africans especially the youth have been' brainwashed' to a degree; that it has become virtually impossible to think rationally, or have the desire to achieve a common goal of making Africa a better place.

I’m quite familiar with Pan Africanism. I have read books like the philosophies and opinions of Marcus Garvey. I've also read a wide range of literature of Malcolm X and Martin Luther king Jr. These are men who had vision in seeing the black man stand right and do right in the fight of a better place for the African. In the world of contemporary African studies it is imperative on students to be constantly reminded of their past historical heroes. It is very sad to note, most students have no knowledge of their African heroes. This is largely due to the fact that students do not study literature of African intellectuals but foreign ones. whose ideals are contrary to the vision of these black leaders ,which in my opinion is the best in order to set the agenda for conscious stimulation towards breaking the shackles of imperialism.

The African youth needs to be educated on its rich culture and history in order to realize a conscious awakening in 'these times' .