New Head of the Federation of Abkhaz Cultural Centers in Türkiye Has Been Elected
The VIII Congress of the Federation of Abkhaz Cultural Centres (ABHAZFED) convened in Izmit, Türkiye, on November 12.
IZMIT ― The VIII Congress of the Federation of Abkhaz Cultural Centres (ABHAZFED) convened in Izmit, Türkiye, on November 12, with significant participation from the Parliament of Abkhazia.
During the Congress, a detailed report on the Federation's activities was presented, and a pivotal election was held to appoint a new chairman. The candidacy for this leadership role saw three contenders: Hasan Chichba, Levent Atryshba, and Ercai Pachkoria, with Levent Atryshba ultimately securing the position.
Levent Atryshba, born in 1968 in Hendek Karadere, has been elected as the new head of the Federation of Abkhaz Cultural Centers (ABHAZFED). Atryshba boasts a diverse educational and professional background. He is a 1990 graduate of the Police Academy, followed by a degree in English Language and Literature from Hacettepe University in 1997. Furthering his education, he attended CUNY's John Jay College of Criminal Justice, graduating in 2002.
The Heart of Heritage: Lykhnashta's Harvest Festival Revives Traditions
LYKHNY ― In the picturesque meadows of Lykhnashta, the annual harvest festival, a symbol of cultural heritage and unity, unfolded with grandeur today. After a brief hiatus due to the pandemic, the festival saw its revival, marking a time-honoured tradition that brings together 20 villages from the Gudauta district, including New Afon.
The festival commenced on a vibrant note with visitors flocking early to witness the meticulous decoration of tents and pavilions, each representing the unique culture of its village.
For the first time, the Abazins from the Karachay-Cherkess Republic participated, with delegation head Murat Gedugov emphasising their goal to share the Abazin culture. The Abazin pavilion displayed traditional costumes, weapons, and handicrafts, celebrating the shared heritage of the Abazins and Abkhazians.
Former Georgian Defense Minister and Abkhazian War Perpetrator, Tengiz Kitovani, Dies at 85
Tengiz Kitovani, the infamous former Georgian Defense Minister and orchestrator of the brutal military invasion of Abkhazia in 1992, has died at 85. His death marks the end of a chapter for many in Abkhazia, characterised by violence, oppression, and lasting trauma.
Kitovani, a key figure in the violent overthrow of Georgia's first president, Zviad Gamsakhurdia, was notorious for his aggressive military tactics. Under his command, Georgian forces launched an assault on Abkhazia on August 14, 1992, leading to a prolonged and bloody conflict.
His appointment as Defense Minister signified a drastic shift from the more diplomatic approach of his predecessor, General Levan Sharashenidze, towards a ruthless military strategy endorsed by then-President Eduard Shevardnadze. This strategy culminated in the unprovoked invasion of Abkhazia, wreaking havoc on the region and its people.
The UNPO's November 1992 report on Abkhazia paints a harrowing picture of the atrocities committed under Kitovani's leadership. Georgian troops, following Kitovani's orders, engaged in widespread violence against non-Georgian civilians, including Abkhazians, Armenians, Russians, and other minorities. The report details horrific acts of killing, torture, and destruction, a testament to the ruthless campaign orchestrated by Kitovani.
Ezabay Kapba on the Work of the 'Society of the Blind of Abkhazia': "Hope Dies Last"
November 13 is annually observed as International Day of the Blind. On the eve of this significant date, the chairman of the Society of the Blind of Abkhazia, Ezabay Kapba, who has been leading the organisation since 2009, shared insights in an interview with Apsnypress about the activities of the Society.
Alexey Shamba, Elvira Gorzolia | ApsnyPress
The conversation was challenging. The Society faces many problems that have been unresolved for decades, and there are insufficient options to truly improve the situation. Almost everything traditionally boils down to funding, which is simply non-existent.
What was particularly striking, however, was something else. Despite being completely blind due to a mine explosion immediately after the Patriotic War of the People of Abkhazia, the chairman of the Society does not lose his optimism and energy, making utmost efforts to help the visually impaired in any way possible. The following sections detail how he manages this, which organisations he has had to turn to for support over the past 14 years, and what the outcomes were.
Ezabay Kapba's story is one of resilience and hope. Despite the many obstacles faced by the Society of the Blind of Abkhazia, their leader remains optimistic and driven to make a difference. This interview highlights the importance of support and understanding for people with disabilities, and the need for inclusive opportunities for all. If you are moved by their story and wish to offer support to this organisation, please feel free to contact us. Your contribution, big or small, can make a significant difference in the lives of those we serve.