July 2020

Who knew that in July 2020 we would all still be stuck indoors more or less?! Definitely not us!

We were convinced that the roni-rona would have left our shores (and planet) by then - but alas! 

The summer months unusually mark the start of rooftop parties and festivals across the country...not this year!

So, we thought we'd bring you a list of festival inspired and rooftop worthy activities you can partake in from the comfort of your home. 

Missing the cinema? No problem, we've got you covered. We have some great African magic to get you through July.

Celebrating outdoor cinema from the comfort of your home.

June 30th marked Congolese Independence day so what better way than to watch some classic Congolese cinematography. Also a great way to practice French!

La vie est belle may seem a bit ironic watching during these times but itis a wonderful cult classic and stars the legendary Papa Wemba. 

Flipping the script ever so slightly, we have Kinshasa Kids. Released in 2012, the film set on the streets of Kinshasa and follows a group of homeless children in their quest to make music and money.  Approximately 30,000 kids are forced to live on the streets due to being suspected as witches and this story delicately touches on this while exploring the various consequences for a child living on the streets of Kinshasa.

 

Because African fashion is at the core of what we do at Mais Af, we have a lovely documentary for you this July.

Sarah Diouf, founder of Tongoro has created a thoughtful 'Made in Africa' mini docu-story on her personal journey as an African fashion designer in the 21st century. Her pieces - already popular across the continent - have garnered international interest and have been worn by the likes of Tiwa Savage, Beyonce and Alicia Keyes. Hope you enjoy it as much as we did.

 

No rooftop parties to attend? No festivals to enjoy with your friends?? No problem! 

Ever heard of Zamrock? Neither had we until March. It's amazing how much we have been able to find being stuck indoors. For example,Zamrock. Did you know in the 1960's and 70's there was a huge rock scene in Zambia? Neither did we! The music is as expected - pure vibes. What makes the songs even more beautiful is the use of Zambian languages such as Bemba and Nyanja. Here is your July Summer festival: Zamrock

Discovered a fun fact whilst watching the documentary: Kenneth Kaunda, the first Zambian president was also a musician!

As the days get warmer, we will need to for something refreshing. So why not give making Zobo a go! It's made from the sorrel plant and is packed with nutrients.

Check out this recipe by Sweet Adjeley and give it a go

 What goes best with a cocktail? Some delicious African snacks of course!

Plantain chips.

This is a favourite for kids and adults alike. Sweet, crisp and if you like, with a twist, you can try it with some lime or dip it in some Ghanaian shito. Plantain chips are made across south America too with several variations.

Another great dish to make with plantains is Tatale/titale which is a Ghanaian pancake dish.