Eyes of Wakanda is an animated anthology series on Disney Plus that explores pivotal moments in Wakanda's history, blending Marvel's fantastical elements with real African history, and offering a more grounded, morally nuanced storytelling approach compared to previous Marvel projects.
Hibiscus drinks have a significant history in Africa, particularly among the African diaspora. The flower, believed to have originated in West Africa, was used for various drinks and had medicinal properties. It symbolized survival and strength during slavery and helped African slaves maintain their cultural identity. Today, African-inspired hibiscus drinks are gaining popularity, with a range of styles and flavors incorporating the flower. The cultural significance, medicinal benefits, and culinary prowess of hibiscus continue to be celebrated.
A genetic analysis of ancient bones and teeth from six burial sites across coastal Kenya and Tanzania has confirmed the long-told origin story of the Swahili people, who believed that Persian traders sailed across the Indian Ocean, married local women and enmeshed themselves into East African society around 1,000 years ago. The study, published in the journal Nature, found that local African women began having children with Persian traders, and the descendants of these unions gained power and status in the highest levels of pre-colonial Swahili society. The findings help elucidate the foundations of Swahili civilization and suggest that the African-centric version of Swahili roots is more truthful than previously presumed.