Chidimma Adetshina, a 2024 Miss South Africa pageant finalist, is under scrutiny as criticism over her eligibility continues due to her Nigerian heritage. The controversy has intensified with the emergence of a video showing her wedding, which some allege violates competition guidelines.

Adetshina, born in South Africa to a Nigerian father and a Mozambican mother who has since become a naturalized South African, is facing backlash over her participation in the pageant. Critics argue that her background makes her ineligible, despite her South African citizenship.

According to the South African Citizenship Act, an individual automatically qualifies for citizenship if they are born in South Africa, if at least one of their parents is a South African citizen, or if they are adopted by a South African permanent residency permit holder or citizen. Adetshina meets these criteria, but the controversy persists.

By Milcah Tanimu

Yoruba weddings, often referred to as “owambe” parties, are renowned for their lively and exuberant atmosphere. Here are five reasons why Yoruba weddings are considered the most fun:

1. The Live Band:
Yoruba weddings are synonymous with the enchanting tunes of a live band. Whether they are playing your favorite songs or delivering soul-stirring Yoruba ballads, these bands infuse life and energy into the celebration, making it impossible to resist the dance floor’s allure.

2. The Alagas:
Long before the era of hypemen, Yoruba parties had their own unique MCs known as Alaga Iduro and Alaga Ijoko. These humorous orators play a pivotal role in keeping the party vibrant with their jokes and engaging antics, ensuring everyone has a good time.

3. The Dancing Crowd:
As the live band sets the stage with exciting melodies, a rush of enthusiastic guests flocks to the dance floor. Yoruba weddings are notorious for their extended dance sessions, and a large, jubilant crowd, often surrounding the bride and groom, makes this an unforgettable experience.

4. The Regal Attire:
Yoruba weddings are nothing short of a fashion extravaganza. From the resplendent bride and groom adorned in traditional aso-oke and agbada attire to the impeccably tailored aso-ebi styles of the wedding guests, fashion takes center stage. Women embellish their outfits with stunning headgear, colorful shoes, and matching purses, adding an extra touch of grandeur to the occasion.

5. The Food and Drinks:
Yoruba weddings are renowned for their lavish spreads of food and drinks. From traditional dishes like amala, pounded yam, egusi, and jollof rice to delicacies like moi moi and dodo, complemented by succulent goat meat and fried cow meat, these weddings are veritable feasts. The abundance of delicious food and beverages ensures that the celebration is not only enjoyable but also memorable.

By Milcah Tanimu

There are optimal times to drink water for various health benefits:

1. **Before Eating**: Drinking a glass of water half an hour before a meal can aid digestion. Avoid drinking water immediately before or after a meal, as it can weaken digestive fluids. Wait about an hour after eating to sip water, which helps the body metabolize nutrients.

2. **Before Menstruation**: Consuming enough water before and during your period can reduce bloating and alleviate premenstrual discomfort. Dehydration is a leading cause of cramps and headaches. Increasing water intake can alleviate pelvic discomfort, shorten menstrual cycles, and reduce the need for painkillers.

3. **When Sick**: Hydration is crucial for recovery from illness. Start drinking water as soon as you feel unwell, even if you don’t have an appetite. Avoid alcohol and coffee-based beverages, as they can dehydrate you.

4. **During Sweating**: Whenever you sweat due to activities like using a hot tub, sauna, outdoor exposure on a hot day, or exercise, your body loses fluids. Drinking water helps regulate your body temperature and keeps you cool.

5. **When Feeling Hungry**: Sometimes, thirst is mistaken for hunger. When you feel hungry, try drinking water first, and wait a short while to see if it satisfies your appetite.

6. **Upon Waking Up**: Drinking water in the morning is beneficial as your body has undergone an overnight fast. Adding lemon juice to your morning glass of water provides potassium, vitamin C, and antioxidants for an energy boost.

7. **Before, During, and After Exercise**: Water is essential for rehydrating after losing fluids through perspiration during exercise. It’s recommended to drink two liters of water every 10 to 15 minutes while exercising and two to four liters after your workout.

8. **After Sex**: Drinking water after sexual activity can promote urination, which may help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) by clearing bacteria from the urinary system.