Author: Stephen Ibrahim

Rituals are more than routines; they are small, intentional acts that bring balance, peace, and renewal to everyday life. By practicing a few mindful health habits, you can restore your body, calm your mind, and create a sense of grounding no matter how busy life gets.

Here are five powerful rituals that can help you feel healthier, lighter, and more centered.

Eat Light, Sleep Right

A nourishing evening meal can make the difference between restful sleep and waking up groggy. Heavy foods slow down digestion, leaving the body restless. Instead, go for light, balanced options — like grilled fish with vegetables, rice and stew in small portions, or a simple soup.

This ritual allows your body to recover overnight instead of struggling to digest heavy meals, leaving you refreshed and energized the next day.

Build a Sleep Ritual

Good health begins with quality sleep. A calming bedtime routine helps signal to the body that it’s time to rest.

Put your phone aside an hour before sleep, dim the lights, and perhaps sip on chamomile or ginger tea. Play soft music or read a few pages of a book. These cues help your body slow down naturally, allowing you to drift into deep, restorative sleep.

Write It Down, Let It Go

Journaling is one of the simplest ways to release mental clutter. Take 10 minutes to jot down your thoughts; the good, the bad, and the to-do lists.

This ritual clears the mind, reduces stress, and creates space for clarity. It’s also an opportunity to reflect on what matters most and set gentle intentions for the day ahead.

Stretch, Breathe, Unwind

Your body stores the stress of daily life. Stretching and breathing exercises are powerful rituals to release tension and restore calm.

Whether it’s a short yoga flow, light stretches, or simple deep breathing, these practices relax both muscles and the nervous system. Just a few minutes can leave you feeling lighter, calmer, and more in tune with your body.

Hydrate with Intention

Drinking water may seem basic, but it is one of the most profound health rituals. A glass of water before bed, after waking up, or during mindful breaks throughout the day keeps the body refreshed and supports natural recovery.

Hydration is a reminder that wellness often begins with small, consistent choices.

Health isn’t only about big changes; it’s about small, consistent rituals that nourish your body and calm your mind. Eating light, creating a sleep routine, journaling, stretching, and staying hydrated are simple practices but when done regularly, they create a life of balance and renewal.

Start with one ritual today. Let it ground you. Then add another, and another. Before long, you’ll notice how these small habits transform your days into moments of peace and energy.

When fans attend a Wizkid concert, they don’t just go for the music, they go for the energy, the vibes, and the unforgettable moments. One of those moments, which has become a near-trademark for the Nigerian superstar, is his now-famous water-splashing ritual. Whether it’s a festival stage in Europe or an intimate Lagos crowd, Wizkid often grabs a bottle of water, showers the audience, and sends the crowd into a frenzy.

But why has this small act become such a big deal? Let’s dive in.

A Festival Highlight Turned Signature Move

The “water moment” gained major attention during Oya Festival 2023 in Oslo, Norway. In the middle of his set, performing hits like Fever, Samba, and Joro, Wizkid grabbed a water bottle and playfully sprayed the crowd. Fans screamed, phones flew in the air, and suddenly what seemed like a random act became one of the festival’s most replayed highlights online.

Clips of Wizkid splashing water circulated across Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter, with fans hailing it as peak “Big Wiz energy.”

https://twitter.com/streamdorm/status/1962517078847447457?s=46

For many fans, it’s not just water; it’s connection. In a concert world often dominated by pyrotechnics, giant screens, and choreographed dancers, Wizkid’s spontaneous gesture feels raw and personal.

• Symbol of freedom: Splashing water can be said to capture the carefree, party spirit that Afrobeats represents.
• A badge of experience: For fans, being in the splash zone is proof of “I was really there kinda feeling”
• Online virality: Short clips of the splash moments trend easily, adding to Wizkid’s festival legacy.

And maybe, just maybe, the water is more than a playful sprinkle—it’s a baptism into the energy of Afrobeats.

Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence company, xAI, has ignited heated debate with the launch of a new feature in its Grok chatbot, a sexualized anime-inspired AI companion called Ani.

Marketed under Grok’s “Companion Mode,” Ani is designed to flirt, roleplay, and form pseudo-romantic connections with users. But within days of release, Ani has become one of the most controversial AI launches of the year.

What Is Ani?

Ani appears as a goth-themed, blonde anime character. According to xAI, she is meant to provide “personalized companionship,” remembering user details such as names and preferences, while offering playful or intimate responses.

Access to Ani is included in the Super Grok premium plan (about $30 per month). However, multiple reports suggest that some users are able to access Ani’s features outside the subscription tier, including within Grok’s Kids Mode; a revelation that has alarmed parents and child safety advocates.

Reactions and Concerns

Escalating Conversations

Tech journalists who tested Ani reported that interactions often escalate quickly into sexually explicit or BDSM-themed dialogue. A Verge reporter noted that within 24 hours, Ani was already suggesting bondage scenarios.

Child Safety Risks

Critics are raising alarms after Ani was found accessible to minors. Parenting experts have labeled the move “dangerous and irresponsible,” warning that the bot’s flirtatious persona could distort how young users understand relationships and intimacy.

Ethical Debate

While some adult users view Ani as a lighthearted experiment in digital companionship, ethicists argue that the feature risks encouraging emotional dependency and unhealthy attachments. “This is less about innovation and more about exploitation,” one AI researcher told Time.

Broader Context

The launch of Ani comes at a time when AI chatbots are increasingly being used for companionship and emotional support. Companies like Replika and Character.AI have experimented with virtual partners, but xAI’s Ani stands out for its overtly sexualized design and lack of strict safeguards.

The controversy also follows earlier criticism of Grok, which previously drew backlash for spreading misinformation and extremist outputs. Ani’s debut has further amplified concerns about whether Musk’s push for “unfiltered AI” is putting growth ahead of responsibility.

xAI has not issued a formal statement addressing safety concerns surrounding Ani. Meanwhile, regulators and watchdog groups are calling for clearer age restrictions, content filters, and transparency in AI companion design.

As debates continue, Ani is emerging as a flashpoint in the global discussion about the ethics of AI companionship—and a reminder that the line between innovation and irresponsibility remains razor-thin.

After five years away from her last album release, Tiwa Savage returns with This One Is Personal; a 15-track body of work that pulls her away from Afropop dominance into a stripped-down, deeply vulnerable space. Where 2020’s Celia was bold, global, and radio-ready, This One Is Personal feels like the diary entries Tiwa never intended to share but bravely did anyway.

Sound & Atmosphere

The first thing you notice is what’s missing: the high-energy beats that once powered hits like “All Over” or “Ma Lo.” Instead, the production here is minimal, at times skeletal—pianos, soft percussion, and spacious R&B backdrops.

This shift is deliberate. On “I’m Done,” the piano feels like a stage light focused solely on her voice. “You4Me” reworks Tamia’s So Into You into a breezy Afrobeats-R&B hybrid. “On the Low” carries a smoky sensuality, its Afro-groove subdued to make room for Skepta’s rap.

It’s intimate, yes but also risky. The quieter sound creates room for her voice to shine, but it also strips away some of the dynamism that made her previous projects more versatile. For some listeners, the pacing may drag after a few tracks, as the emotional weight leans heavily toward sorrow and reflection.

Themes & Storytelling

Tiwa promised vulnerability, and she delivers. The lyrics carry raw honesty, often exposing cracks instead of polishing them over.

• Toxic Love: “Angel Dust” paints love as an addiction, seductive but destructive.
• Heartbreak & Bitterness: “You’re Not the First (You’re Just the Worst)” might be her bluntest song yet, sharp, even petty, but undeniably human.
• Faith & Spirituality: On “Change,” featuring James Fauntleroy, romantic yearning blurs into a conversation with God—a rare pivot that elevates the record’s depth.
• Emotional Fatigue: “Pray No More” feels like a sigh of exhaustion, a prayer from someone tired of constant battles.

The narrative arc is heavy: heartbreak, disillusionment, attempts at healing. It’s moving but narrow. One missing element is contrast; there are few bright or hopeful moments to balance the melancholy.

Collaborations That Complement

One of the album’s smartest choices is restraint with features. Skepta’s appearance on “On the Low” feels organic, adding grit without stealing attention. Rising star Taves fits seamlessly into “Addicted.” James Fauntleroy on “Change” provides the record’s spiritual climax.

In an era of feature-stuffed albums, this discipline gives This One Is Personal cohesion. Every guest feels like part of the story, not a marketing checklist.

What Works

• Honesty: This is Tiwa at her most unguarded. She doesn’t hide behind pop gloss.
• Cohesion: The album feels like one body of work, not a random playlist.
• Intentional Features: Skepta, Taves, and Fauntleroy serve the music, not the hype.

What Doesn’t

• Pacing: The mid-tempo mood rarely shifts, making some tracks blur together.
• Limited Emotional Range: Almost all songs sit in heartbreak and reflection. A moment of joy or defiance would have added balance.
• Commercial Appeal: Fans wanting another “Koroba” will find little to dance to here.

This One Is Personal is not a flawless album, but it’s a brave one. Tiwa Savage steps away from her comfort zone, risking commercial momentum to reveal her humanity. The result is a project that may not dominate charts but will resonate with those who crave authenticity in music.

It’s a record for headphones, quiet car rides, and solitary nights—not for the club. And maybe that’s the point.

Rating: 8/10

Horror films have always tapped into humanity’s deepest fears, whether through supernatural forces, psychological tension, or relentless killers. The genre has produced some of the most iconic and influential works in cinema history. Below is a ranking of the greatest horror movies of all time, complete with summaries, about-sections, and their lasting impact on the genre.

Psycho (1960, Alfred Hitchcock)

Summary: Marion Crane, on the run after stealing money, checks into the Bates Motel, where she meets Norman Bates, a seemingly shy innkeeper with a disturbing secret.

About the film: Hitchcock’s masterpiece shocked audiences with its bold violence and psychological depth. The infamous shower scene and Norman Bates’ dual personality redefined horror. Psycho is widely credited with creating the foundation for modern slasher films while elevating horror into serious cinema.

The Exorcist (1973, William Friedkin)

Summary: A young girl named Regan becomes possessed by a demonic entity, and two priests attempt a dangerous exorcism to save her.

About the film: The Exorcist was a cultural phenomenon, terrifying audiences with groundbreaking effects and disturbing imagery. Its exploration of faith, good versus evil, and human fragility gave it depth beyond its shocking visuals, making it one of the most influential horror films ever made.

Halloween (1978, John Carpenter)

Summary: On Halloween night, masked killer Michael Myers escapes from an asylum and stalks babysitters in his hometown, targeting teenager Laurie Strode.

About the film: With a shoestring budget, Carpenter created a horror juggernaut. Its haunting score, minimalist approach, and suburban setting proved horror didn’t need gore to be terrifying. Halloween became the model for countless slashers and made Michael Myers an enduring horror icon.

The Shining (1980, Stanley Kubrick)

Summary: Jack Torrance takes a caretaker job at the remote Overlook Hotel, where isolation and supernatural forces drive him into madness, threatening his family.

About the film: Kubrick’s meticulous direction and Jack Nicholson’s unforgettable performance turned The Shining into a chilling exploration of madness. Its use of symmetry, atmosphere, and ambiguity unsettles viewers decades later, cementing it as both a horror masterpiece and an art-house triumph.

Jaws (1975, Steven Spielberg)

Summary: A small beach town is terrorized by a massive great white shark, forcing the police chief, a fisherman, and a scientist to hunt it down.

About the film: Though often classified as a thriller, Jaws is horror at its core, striking primal fear of the unknown. Spielberg’s suspenseful pacing and John Williams’ two-note score created one of cinema’s most terrifying experiences. The film also birthed the modern summer blockbuster.

Rosemary’s Baby (1968, Roman Polanski)

Summary: Rosemary, a young woman, becomes suspicious that her pregnancy is part of a sinister plot involving her neighbors and a Satanic cult.

About the film: A slow-burn masterpiece, Rosemary’s Baby thrives on paranoia and suggestion rather than spectacle. Mia Farrow’s haunting performance and the film’s shocking conclusion left audiences unsettled. Its success proved that horror could thrive on psychological manipulation rather than gore.

Hereditary (2018, Ari Aster)

Summary: After her mother’s death, Annie and her family uncover horrifying secrets that tie their grief to a dark supernatural curse.

About the film: A modern classic, Hereditary blends family trauma with supernatural terror. Toni Collette’s emotionally raw performance elevated the film, while Ari Aster’s direction created some of the most shocking moments in recent horror. It has been hailed as redefining what 21st-century horror can achieve.

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974, Tobe Hooper)

Summary: A group of friends stumble upon a farmhouse inhabited by a family of cannibals, including the chainsaw-wielding Leatherface.

About the film: With its documentary-like realism, gritty sound design, and oppressive atmosphere, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre remains one of the most disturbing films ever. Surprisingly low on gore, its horror lies in its relentless dread. Leatherface became a cultural icon of terror.

Get Out (2017, Jordan Peele)

Summary: Chris, a young Black man, visits his white girlfriend’s family estate, where he discovers a sinister plot beneath their welcoming façade.

About the film: Jordan Peele’s debut combined horror thrills with sharp social commentary, addressing racial dynamics in a way never before seen in the genre. Acclaimed for its symbolism, tension, and originality, Get Out redefined horror for modern audiences and won Peele an Academy Award.

Alien (1979, Ridley Scott)

Summary: The crew of the Nostromo spaceship encounter a deadly alien creature that stalks them one by one in deep space.

About the film: By blending science fiction and horror, Alien created one of the most terrifying monsters in cinema. The claustrophobic setting and the shocking chestburster scene cemented its legacy. Sigourney Weaver’s Ripley became an iconic heroine, changing the “final girl” archetype forever.

From Hitchcock’s Psycho to Peele’s Get Out, these films represent the pinnacle of horror storytelling. Each redefined fear for its time, shaping both the genre and popular culture. Horror is not just about scares—it’s about reflection, tension, and innovation. That’s why these ten movies remain the greatest horror films of all time.

In Nigeria, Saturdays are not just another day on the calendar—they carry a rhythm, a culture, and a vibe that sets them apart. Across the country, Saturdays symbolize celebration, relaxation, and community. Whether it’s the glitz of owambes or the calm of unwinding at home, the day holds a special meaning for Nigerians everywhere.

Owambes

Ask any Nigerian what Saturdays mean, and the answer will likely involve an owambe; mostly popular amongst the Yorubas but regardless of the ethnicity, everyone parties on Saturday. These are the lavish weddings, birthdays, and celebratory gatherings known for their music, fashion, and food. Guests turn out in brightly colored aso-ebi, the DJs spin Afrobeats hits, and the atmosphere is always electric. For many, Saturdays are incomplete without an owambe invitation—or at least scrolling Instagram to see who wore what. Owambes are more than just parties; they are cultural showcases where Nigerian fashion, cuisine, and music shine brightly.

Sporting Saturdays

Another staple of Nigerian Saturdays is football. Whether it’s cheering for local teams in a neighborhood viewing center or streaming English Premier League matches, football binds people together. Saturdays often become mini-festivals of passion, noise, and camaraderie as fans support their favorite clubs. Football on Saturdays is more than a sport, it’s a social ritual that unites people from all walks of life.

Chill Saturdays

Not everyone goes out, of course. For many Nigerians, Saturdays are reserved for catching up on rest after a long work week. It’s a day to recharge—watching movies, doing small chores, or spending quality time with family. Some prefer the calm of an early morning market run, followed by a hearty pot of jollof rice shared with loved ones. This slower pace makes Saturdays a perfect balance between productivity and leisure.

Interestingly, Nigerian Saturdays often mix productivity with fun. From wedding errands to laundry day, people use the weekend to tick things off their list while still finding time to celebrate. This balance is what makes Saturdays unique: productive yet joyful, loud yet restful. It reflects the Nigerian lifestyle where hard work and celebration often go hand-in-hand.

Why Saturdays Feel Special in Nigeria

At its core, Saturdays are about connection. Whether through the energy of owambes, the unity of football, or the intimacy of family moments, Saturdays embody the Nigerian spirit of togetherness. They remind us that life is meant to be lived loudly, joyfully, and in style. Nigerian Saturdays are not just about the activities—they are about the feelings, the memories, and the bonds created along the way.

Discover the top 5 trending topics in Nigeria this week—from AFRIMA 2025 nominations to Johnny Drille & Tiwa Savage’s new collaboration, TikTok culture, and more.

Every week in Nigeria, a few topics dominate conversations, whether on Twitter (X), Instagram, WhatsApp groups, or even the streets. This week has been no different. From entertainment to politics, lifestyle trends, and social buzz, here are the top five trending topics Nigerians can’t stop talking about:

AFRIMA 2025 Nominations

The buzz around the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA 2025) is still hot. Fans are celebrating their favorites while arguing about who got snubbed. With heavyweights like Burna Boy, Ayra Starr, and Asake leading nominations, the debates on “who deserves Album of the Year” have flooded social media. AFRIMA remains one of the most talked-about music events in Africa, and Nigerians are proudly backing their stars.

SAMA 2025 and Afrobeats Conversations

Even though the South African Music Awards (SAMA 2025) are not Nigerian, they still caused a stir online. Nigerian fans are comparing South Africa’s music culture with the global dominance of Afrobeats, sparking heated debates about who really owns the African sound right now. The cross-border music rivalry has kept timelines busy all week.

Johnny Drille & Tiwa Savage Collaboration

This unexpected collab had Nigerians buzzing all week. Both artists are known for soulful, emotional music, and their first track together felt refreshing. The reaction online shows how much fans love when artists blend unique sounds. Some are already calling it one of the best Nigerian collaborations of 2025.

TikTok’s Nigerian Wave

From viral skits to dance challenges, Nigerians continue to set global trends on TikTok. This week, the conversation tilted toward how creators outside Nigeria are using Nigerian culture, slang, and music to farm engagement proof of Nigeria’s growing influence on digital content. With TikTok’s algorithm favoring Nigerian-style creativity, it’s clear the world is watching.

The Cost of Living Conversations

Away from music and entertainment, Nigerians have been actively discussing the rising cost of living. Food prices, transportation costs, and fuel hikes sparked countless viral memes and tweets. While the humor softens the blow, the frustration is clear. It’s a reminder that alongside the fun and vibes, Nigerians never shy away from real issues.

From global music awards to cultural influence on TikTok, Nigerians proved once again that they shape conversations beyond borders. Whether it’s through music, lifestyle, or social commentary, these are the trending topics defining

The South African Music Awards 2025 (SAMA31) have officially unveiled their nominations, spotlighting the best in South African music across genres such as amapiano, afro pop, hip hop, jazz, gospel, rock, and traditional music. Scheduled for November 2025, the awards will recognize both established stars and rising voices, while also celebrating African artists through the Rest of Africa Award.

The Rest of Africa Award brings continental powerhouses into the mix, including Wizkid, Tems, Ayra Starr, and Fireboy DML.

These nominations emphasize the diversity and global influence of South African music, while also aligning the SAMAs as a continental benchmark for excellence.

Full List of SAMA 2025 Nominees

Best Adult Contemporary Album

• Just 6 – uKhisimusi – An African Christmas
• Melanie Scholtz – Seven
• Tony Drake – Room For Everyone
• Nue Sam – Nonyezi
• The Morning After – Look At You Now

Best African Adult Contemporary Album

• Zamajobe – UMI
• Thandiswa Mazwai – Sankofa
• Zoe Modiga – Nomthandazo
• Ndu Shezi – Isibusiso Sami
• Mthuthu – Indumiso YabeNguni

Best Afro Pop Album

• Nomfundo Moh – Twenty Four
• Malik – Malik
• Sjava – Isibuko (Deluxe)
• Sjava – Inkanyezi (Live)
• Dalom Kids – Collaborations With Friends

Best Alternative Album

• Yoav & Jabulile Majola – Unyazi
• Zādok – Perspective: Black
• Francis Soal – Hindsight 2020
• Th&o – Emlotheni
• Spoegwolf – Berge

Best Amapiano Album

• Vigro Deep – Your Piano Is Not My Piano
• Kelvin Momo – Sewe
• Kelvin Momo – Ntsako
• Mellow & Sleazy – Midnight in Sunnyside
• Zee Nxumalo – Inja Ye Game

Best Classical/Instrumental Album

• John Lundun – In the Morning
• Chris Vale, Eugene Joubert, Franco Prinsloo, MarlizeHattingh – By Alle Skone Dinge
• Derek Gripper – Ballaké Sissoko & Derek Gripper
• Vox Chamber Choir & Franco Prinsloo – A Season in Paradise
• Orecchiette – Awake for 22 Hours

Best Collaboration

• Kelvin Momo – Waze Wamuhle
• Black Motion – Takala
• Kususa – Ematshwaleni
• Matt Davies – Stay With Me
• Mas Musiq, Lawd Weezy & DJ Maphorisa ft TO Starquality, Chley & Kabza De Small – Amalanga

Best Dance Album

• Black Motion – The Cradle Of Art
• Dlala Thukzin – FINALLY FAMOUS TOO
• MÖRDA – Cr4zy!!..
• Shimza – Dreaming
• Caiiro – Caiiro

Best Engineered Album

• Black Motion – The Cradle Of Art
• Thandiswa Mazwai – Sankofa
• Sjava – Isibuko (Deluxe)
• Keenan Meyer – Reawakening
• Jeremy Loops – Feathers & Stone

Best Gqom Album

• Mr Thela – Tronics Land 3
• DJ Lag – The Rebellion
• Goldmax – Play At Your Own Risk
• DJ Sandiso – NANDE 3.0
• Lelowhatsgood – Next Level

Best Hip Hop Album

• Blxckie – See U Soon Delux
• Tony Dayimane – Red October: Induction
• Loatinover Pounds – Pray 4 Pitori
• Sizwe Alakine – Audio 2D; Dear Darkie
• 25K – Loyal To The Plug: The Life & Times of Don Kilograms

Best Jazz Album

• Nduduzo Makhathini – uNomkhubulwane
• Nick Ford – Terra Solus
• Nomfundo Xaluva – Ndilapha
• Last – Hope Dies Last
• Ncesh Nonxishi – Apho Kungenje

Best Maskandi Album

• Umafikizolo – Ngathi Nguye
• Phuzekhemisi – iPolotiki
• Khuzani – Angidlali Nezingane
• Ntencane – Alingeni
• Imithente – Amathambo Kagogo

Best Produced Album

• Zamajobe – UMI
• Black Motion – The Cradle Of Art
• Thandiswa Mazwai – Sankofa
• Qü – Reprise on 2nd Avenue
• Linda Sikhakhane – iLadi

Best Produced Music Video

• Soa Mattrix – Umbuzo
• MaWhoo & Mthandeni SK – Gucci
• TitoM & Yuppe – Tshwala Bam (Remix)
• Blxckie – South
• Shekhinah ft Moliy – Risk

Best R&B/Soul Album

• Mikhalé Jones – Too Many Promises
• Elaine – Stone Cold Heart
• Filah Lah Lah – On Air
• Clxrity – It’s Clear To See
• The Big Hash – Heartbreak Hotel (Deluxe)

Best Reggae Album

• Dread Lloyd – Mekwei
• Anela Jahmena – The Rise
• Dimahr – Flaws in Frame
• LUWE DA LION – After All
• Botanist – Area Code

Best Rock Album

• Bloumoord – VIR MEKAAR
• MaxX & Love – These Blues Might Get You Too
• Prime Circle – The World We Know
• The Man Motels – Old Wounds
• The Morning After – Look At You Now

Best Traditional Faith Music Album

• Betusile – Uyinqaba Yam (Jehovah Nissi)
• David Tebogo – The Journey (Part 1)
• Malusi Mbokazi – The Full Circle Revival
• Rofhiwa Manyaga – Rofhiwa Dzina
• Ayanda Ntanzi – According to Grace, A One Man Show

Best Traditional Music Album

• Keitumetse Mangate Production – moleele
• MmaAusi – Mmakgodu
• Makhadzi Entertainment – Miracle Child (Deluxe)
• Sabu Jiyana – Kwanomthandazo
• Pleasure Tsa Manyalo – Bakokota (EP)

Beste Kontemporêre Musiek Album

• Pietman Geldenhuys – Vaalsand
• Ampie – Niemandsland
• Spoegwolf – Eindbestemming
• Neil Sandilands – Land & Sand
• Majo – Geraamtes

Remix of the Year

• TitoM – Tshwala Bam
• Woodblock DJs – Skuta Baba
• Jnr SA – Mngani
• Tycoon – Iza Mawala
• Mpho.Wav – Hlala

Rest of Africa Award

• Ayra Starr – The Year I Turned 21
• Bensoul – The Party & After Party
• Wizkid – Morayo
• Tems – Born In The Wild
• Fireboy DML – Adedamola

Best African Indigenous Faith Album

• Wacha Mkhukhu Wachumlilo – Re Kgoeletsa Magodimong
• JTG Gospel Choir – Morena Re Ya Leboga
• House Of Mercy – Busa Jeso
• Barongoa Ba Morena – Ikutana
• Di Bruin Gospel Projects – Nkapese Ka Maatla

Best Contemporary Faith Music Album

• SbuNoah – Heavenly Psalms – Level 2 (Live at Goshen City Church 2023)
• Nontokozo Mkhize – Lindiwe
• Mmangaliso – Living Word
• Jabu Hlongwane – Crosspower Experience 4
• Takie Ndou – The Glory

Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) are more than just a kitchen spice. Known for their warm aroma and intense flavour, cloves have been used for centuries in traditional medicine across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Today, modern research confirms that this tiny spice is packed with nutrients and bioactive compounds that offer impressive health benefits. From boosting digestion to supporting immunity, cloves can play an important role in maintaining overall wellness.

Rich Source of Antioxidants

Cloves are loaded with antioxidants such as polyphenols and eugenol. These compounds fight free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress that contributes to aging and chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Including cloves in your diet can help protect cells and improve long-term health.

Natural Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Eugenol, the main active compound in cloves, has strong anti-inflammatory effects. Studies show that it may help reduce joint pain, muscle soreness, and swelling, making cloves useful for people dealing with arthritis or other inflammatory conditions.

Supports Healthy Digestion

Traditionally, cloves have been used to relieve indigestion, gas, and bloating. They stimulate digestive enzyme secretion, which helps food break down more efficiently. Drinking clove tea or adding a small amount to meals can improve digestive comfort.

Promotes Oral Health

Clove oil is widely recognized for its role in dental care. It has antibacterial properties that fight harmful oral bacteria, freshen breath, and provide temporary relief from toothaches. Many natural toothpastes and mouthwashes include clove oil for these reasons.

Helps Regulate Blood Sugar

Research suggests that cloves may help improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels. For people managing diabetes, cloves can serve as a natural dietary support when used alongside medical treatment and a healthy lifestyle.

Boosts the Immune System

The antimicrobial and antiviral properties of cloves make them a natural immune booster. Regular consumption can help the body fight infections, colds, and seasonal flu.

Supports Bone Strength

Cloves contain manganese, a trace mineral essential for bone health and metabolism. Consuming cloves regularly, in moderation, may contribute to stronger bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

Provides Respiratory Relief

Cloves act as an expectorant, loosening mucus in the respiratory tract. Clove tea or steam inhalation with clove oil can ease coughing, asthma, and other respiratory issues.

Protects the Liver

Eugenol in cloves has been shown to support liver health by reducing oxidative stress and lowering inflammation. A healthy liver improves metabolism and detoxification processes in the body.

Enhances Skin Health and Healing

Clove oil, when diluted, is often used in skincare for acne and minor wounds. Its antimicrobial properties help prevent infections, while its natural compounds promote healing.

How to Use Cloves Safely

• Culinary Use: Add cloves to stews, teas, baked goods, or spice blends.
• Clove Tea: Steep 2–3 cloves in hot water for a soothing drink.
• Clove Oil: Always dilute before applying to the skin or using for oral care.
• Moderation: Excessive intake can cause irritation, allergic reactions, or liver issues.

Cloves are a small but mighty spice with a wide range of health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and essential nutrients, they can support digestion, immunity, oral health, and more. By incorporating cloves moderately into your meals or natural remedies, you can harness their healing power while enjoying their bold flavour.

Note

Cloves are powerful and should be consumed with care. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with liver conditions, or those taking medications such as blood thinners should consult a healthcare professional before using cloves for medicinal purposes.

The All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) 2025 nominations are out, and the competition is fiercer than ever. With 343 nominees across 40 categories, this year’s edition highlights Africa’s biggest icons, rising talents, and diaspora voices shaping global music culture.

AFRIMA 2025 made history with 10,717 entries, the highest in its 12-year existence. After a rigorous 10-day screening by a 13-member international jury, the final nominees list was unveiled, representing all five African regions and the diaspora. The award ceremony will run from November 25 to 30, 2025, in Lagos, Nigeria, culminating in the main event on November 30. Fans will also have their say when public voting opens on September 10 via the official AFRIMA website.

Artists with the Most Nominations

Five Nominations Each

• Burna Boy (Nigeria) – Album of the Year (No Sign of Weakness), Song of the Year, Artiste of the Year
• Davido (Nigeria) – Album of the Year (5ive), Best Collaboration, Song of the Year
• DJ Maphorisa (South Africa) – Key nods in production and collaboration categories
• El Grande Toto (Morocco) – Album of the Year (Salgoat), Best Male Artist North Africa
• Mia Guissé (Senegal)
• Moliy (Ghana) – Leading the female Afropop charge

Four Nominations

• Shallipopi (Nigeria) – Artiste of the Year and Song of the Year for “Laho”
• Amr Diab (Egypt)
• Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
• Tyla (South Africa) – Riding global fame with Amapiano fusion
• Uncle Waffles (Eswatini) – Reinforcing female dominance in the DJ scene

Three Nominations

• Ipupa (DRC)
• Ferre Gola (DRC)
• Himra (Côte d’Ivoire)
• Didi B (Côte d’Ivoire)
• Eboloko (Gabon)
• Emma’a (Gabon)
• Jaylann (Morocco)
• Juma Jux (Tanzania) – Song of the Year for “Ololufe mi”
• Mawhoo (South Africa)
• Nasty C (South Africa)
• Rema (Nigeria) – Also contending for Artiste of the Year

Two Nominations

• Ayra Starr (Nigeria) – Facing Burna Boy, Davido, and Rema in the Artiste of the Year category

AFRIMA 2025 extends beyond the continent, celebrating African talent abroad. Notable nominees include:

Male: DJ Snake, Niska, Tayc, Tiakola, Odeal
Female: Aya Nakamura, Darkoo, Deborah Lukalu, Faouzia, Ronisia

The 2025 AFRIMA nominations prove once again that African music is not just thriving, it’s leading global soundscapes. With icons like Burna Boy, Davido, and Rema battling it out alongside rising stars like Shallipopi, Moliy, and Ayra Starr, this year’s awards promise unforgettable moments. As voting begins on September 10, fans will play a crucial role in deciding who takes home Africa’s biggest music honors.