Amandla Founded October 2003

Volume 9 Issue 12

973-419-0073 / 973-731-1339 An African Community Newspaper December 15, 2010 - January 16, 2011

Bonwire comes to Staten Island...on wheels

Kofi Marfo (left) and Nana Adu Bofour weave kente in Staten Island like they used to do at Bonwire

Strange Disease Killing Local Industry in Ghana by Kofi Ayim For almost 80 years the local coconut industry in Ghana has been plagued with a strange disease that scientists have been unable to diagnose. The once thriving coconut/copra business – from 40,000 hectares of cultivation in 1960 to 24,371.36 hectares in 2009 in the Volta, Western and Central parts of Ghana is gradually being decimated by a rare strain of virus called the Lethal Yellow Disease (LYD) or locally Cape St. Paul Wilt Disease (CSPWD). First detected at Woe near Cape St. Paul in the Volta Region in 1932, and spotted at Cape Three Points, Western Region in 1964 and at Ayensudu near Komenda, Central Region in 1988, this malignant “coconut cancer” can be dormant for decades, and reappear with a sudden profusion. It has the ability to “jump” tens of kilometers to afflict other healthy (coconut) trees. In a given area, the disease can affect several trees, but leave others unscathed. For unknown reasons, LYD has never been able to penetrate into the forest belts, choosing rather to

AfriMETRO Honors Prominent Africans at New York Gala By Pamela Appea

AfriMETRO, a nonprofit and professional networking association and New York University’s Wagner Students Alliance for Africa hosted a

by Kofi Ayim Kente, the intricate multicolored apparel that is exclusively associated with Ghana’s culture and symbolic pride of many Africans born outside Africa has now come to Staten Island, New York to stay. The interest in the first ever “live” kente weaving demonstration in a 2005 Cultural Diversity Program organized by Wagner College of Staten Island seemed to be dying out when Samuel Owusu Sekyere a Ghanaian community leader, chanced upon a family of kente weavers - Nana Adu Bofour, Oti Kegya and Kofi Marfo – from the ancestral home of indigenous kente, Bonwire, in the Ashanti Region. The board member of the Staten Island Immigrant Council and Vice president of the Ghanaian Association of Staten Island liaised on behalf of his group with Chris J. Mule a folklorist and Deputy Director of the Council of the Arts & Humanities for Staten Island (COASI), and in collaboration with the Newhouse Center for Contemporary Art, created the “AKWAABA –Weaving Unity between Bonwire and Staten Island” exhibition. The problem of acquiring a traditional loom was resolved when David Ricciardi an artist and carpenter with input from the three weavers redesigned and constructed a collapsible and portable loom complete with rolling wheels. Given the fact that indigenous looms are stationary, observers believe this innovation is probably the first of its kind in the world.

The devastation of this subsistence economy in affected coastal areas of Ghana has driven several families into poverty and negatively influenced quality of life. It is conservatively estimated that loss of income from the cash crop hovers around GH¢62,200 per year or $43,034.6. The Government of Ghana has employed several mitigating factors to stem the diabolical spread of the disease. A joint FranceGhana-Cote d’Ivoire project was initiated in 1981. The research found out that the viral disease attacks plasma in coconuts. The World Bank and the Wilted coconut trees, a common sight on Ghana’s coastal belt European Union in 1991 linger on the coastal areas. ders its palm and leaves profusely and 1993 respectively funded the reIts vector (carrier) is undetermined yellow and then brown, forcing presearch on the vector disease. And and there is no known treatment yet. mature dropping of (coconut) pods again in 1997 France partnered It is however, not limited to Ghana, and branches in the process. In retro- Ghana in a 5-year intervention proand exists with marked differences spect, a hitherto blooming and program to revamp the industry. So far in other coconut growing areas of ductive coconut tree would be none of the scientific projects was West Africa and the Caribbean. stripped off its nutrients and assume able to nail how the disease is transThe debilitating effect of the disease a form and shape of a typical electric mitted from tree to tree. Unfortublackens the tree and initially renor telephone pole. Holiday Gala and “Golden Jubilee” on December 8 at NYU’s Kimmel Center in the East Village, attended by more than 125 participants. The gala was a fundraiser for global literacy; honoring several community heroes that have devoted significant time and energy to Africa and the African Diaspora community including essential causes such as literacy, maternal health and human rights. “This year has been a particularly exciting year for AfriMETRO,” said founder Folake K. Ayoola who the day after the Golden Jubilee NYC event was on route to Houston, Texas for another professional gala

and event. “AfriMETRO’s work is important in the community because we are one of the very few organizations in the tri-state area with African professionals and “friends of Africa” focused on building a new positive image of Africa and Africans. We do this by organizing business, charitable and professional networking events that inform, educate, empower, and celebrate Africa and Africans. Our history is grounded in the spirit of collaboration and community, Ms. Ayoola said. Continued on page 9

In an interview Chris Mule opined that it is prudent for Staten Island to celebrate cultural diversity to meet the needs and challenges of its growing mixed heritage. He pointed out that it is important for homogenous cultures to reconnect with their identity and also to teach and share the history and culture with one another, especially the younger generation. Making kente, like unique trades requires elaborate dexterity and long hours of sitting. It takes between two to four days to weave the most basic and simple cloth. Complex ones with geometrical patterns and designs could take up to three months or more for a 10 hour a day work. The strips of woven cloths are sewn together into rectangular shapes. Authentic kente cloth is not mass manufactured. Every woven kente cloth – from strips of college graduation to ceremonial gowns of academic pomposity and flowing clerical gowns – is baptized with a name. The name, usually proverbial, reflects socio economic or religious tendencies in an environment. So the next time you see someone wearing kente, inquire of its name. The AKWAABA Weaving Unity exhibit runs from November 6 to April 3 2011 at the spacious and sprawling Snug Harbor complex, Staten Island. All events are free and open to the public Tuesday through Sunday. For more information contact Chris Mule at 718 447-3329 x 1006 or Sam Owusu Sekyere at 347 409-7618.

nately, international funding and grants have dried up. The government of Ghana is now exploiting innovative ways that came out of research projects to revive the industry. Hybrids of the Vanuatu Tall and Pumilla Green Dwarf as well as Vantum Tall and Malayan Yellow Dwarf that have been known to be tolerant to the disease are being replanted on fertile lands. Thus far, an area of about 1,300 hectares has been replanted and a total of 1006 hectares of existing coconut farms that belong to some 367 farmers in 29 communities were fertilized from 2000 to 2002. Stakeholders hope government finds funds for more research to alleviate the plight of coconut growers as was done during the period of the Akate cocoa disease. Until that happens the destiny of a whole chunk of coconut farmers would be at the mercy of Providence for survival. Varieties of coconut (Sri Lanka – Ceylon - types, Malayan Dwarf and West African Tall) were introduced in south-eastern Ghana as an estate crop in the early 1920s. Source: Ministry of Food & Agriculture, Ghana Actor Gbenga Akinnagbe (right) poses with an admirer. The actor was among a number of celebrities who were at the Gala

COMMU!ITY !EWS

Amandla Vol. 9 Issue 12 Dec. 15 - Jan. 16

Season’s Greetings and Reminders

Editorial

Once again the season of good cheer is upon us. Friends and families are feverishly shopping for gifts and children expect Santa to drop by with his usual goodies. It is also the time for stocktaking, an unceasing exercise that enjoins us to advise ourselves for the coming year. The story of Christmas and Chanukah and even Kwanzaa is a story of hope, but it is not a story of hope for a good many people around us and elsewhere in the world. Many are out of work. Others are waiting to know their fate at work. Mortgages and rents continue to back up and in a season as cold as this winter promises, the joy in it is a mere mirage. Elsewhere in Somalia, Darfur and Ivory Coast, hope is a luxury that is ever so distant. Children, women, the old and the infirm do not have the luxury of a hospital bed or the kind word of a doctor or a nurse: they only wait to die. A couple years ago in Kenya more than a thousand lives were lost in violence that broke out after the country’s general elections. A looming danger not different from the Kenyan situation awaits the people of Ivory Coast. In an election in which the opposition leader won, according to the country’s electoral commission’s results, the incumbent president insists on staying in power and has already inaugurated himself. The opposition leader and the prospective president has also inaugurated himself and in both cases cabinet appointments have been made: Ivory Coast has two governments. And the people at a time like this are kept indoors, afraid to venture outside to even shop for food. It is heartrending to wish anyone in such situation Merry Christmas because even though it is Christmas it is not a merry. Amandla joins the world’s seekers of peace at this time to continue the fight for peace. Let the world remember those in need not for the material things of Christmas or Kwanzaa but the spiritual need of hope. As we take stock of the dying year and make resolutions for the next let us not forget those unlike us whose stocktaking is a mere recollection of the past. A happy holidays to all our readers. Afenhyia pa

Ghana’s oil starts flowing Reports from Ghana indicate that oil drilling in commercial quantities has begun. It could not have come at a better time. It is welcome news and we join Ghanaians to celebrate such a memorable and important milestone in the country’s history. Since the period after the 1967 Arab-Israeli war when Arab oil producers started to use petroleum as a leverage to influence peace negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians, the black gold has assumed a major place of importance as an indicator of wealth for producing countries. At the same time, however, petroleum has become a curse. In such rich countries as Nigeria, Angola and Equatorial Guinea it has only been tantalizing to the vast majority of the people while a very few enjoy the wealth. A country like Ghana does not need oil to shore up its economy. To its credit Ghana has been able to hold on without oil partly due to prudent management – by African standards – of its economy. Amandla joins Ghanaians to celebrate their new found wealth and hopes that its leaders would be prudent and visionary in the use of the novel resource.

Subscribe to Amandla. It is only $36 for the the entire year. Call 973-419-0073 / 973-731-1339 or email [email protected] / [email protected]

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Ghanaian Business Expands With A New Branch Kwabena Opong Maxwell Opoku, a Ghanaian immigrant and Chief Executive Officer of Max & Max Financial and Travel Agency, LLC, a financial services company operating in New Jersey has stated that his staying power in business can only be attributed to his dedication and perseverance which for the past eight years has sustained him. Mr. Opoku was speaking during an interview he had with Amandla at the opening of a second branch office of his company at Orange, NJ on Saturday, December 12. Max $ Max, which has been in business for the past eight years is principally engaged in a number of finance-related businesses. They include money transfer, taxes, travel and the processing of immigration documentation. The company currently limits its money transfer to and from Ghana. And according to Mr. Opoku, the company operates two offices in Accra and Kumasi respectively. Moneys transferred to Ghana could be received in dollars or cedis further to customer’s choice. Max $ Max operates its money transfer business under its New Jersey Banking License. Money transferred is covered by a $500,000 insurance if not delivered. And as much as $500,000 can be transferredby the company. In answer as to whether the com-

Garden City Restaurant Fetes Customers Kwabena Opong Akwaaba is a Ghanaian greeting offered to the just arrived. It is like arrivederci to the Italian or bienvenue to the French. But even more than that, Akwaaba goes with more than its verbal meaning, which is “welcome.” One is offered water and then food after being welcomed to the Ghanaian home, and food it is at the Garden City Restaurant, an African restaurant in Union, NJ. At a customer appreciation night held on Saturday, December 12, 2010, the restaurant treated its reg-

pany plans to include other countries in its money transfer business, Mr. Opoku said the main hindrance lies in the myriad of financial regulations in several countries. “Trust is also another matter,” Mr. Opoku says. “You have to know who you deal with or they may run with your money,” he adds. The company may decide to franchise if conditions are perfect for it. As at now branch offices would be opened from time to time. “We want to open a branch office every year from next year,” Mr. Opoku said proudly. It is also likely, however, that the company may set up more offices in Ghana to make thecompany’s services more accessible to more people at home in Ghana. As a first generation immigrant businessman, Mr. Opoku says his customers are essentially immigrants. “Fifty percent of our customers are Ghanaians or Africans with a majority of the rest coming from the Hispanic community,” Agyeman stated. Max $ Max employs eight people, all Ghanaians. The CEO said that prospective employees must possess the requisite educational qualification. Further to their qualifications, the company puts the employee through a series of training in the principal business of the company. Mr. Opoku advises anyone who wishes to enter into business to

have what it takes in perserverance and patience. One has to have faith in onself, he says. He says the “can do” attitude is what pushes one for results. It is hard work working for oneself but it is not impossible, he said encouragingly. African businesses in our area are mostly in the areas of retail of ethnic foods. Businesses such as Max & Max are usually reserved for

such communities as the Hispanic, but Max & Max has been able to weather the storm and is now making strides and causing ripples in the community at large. The Orange office, according Mr. Opoku is technically a third branch. The first office was founded at Somerset followed by Newark, but the Somerset office is now closed.

ular customers and others to a night of delectable African dishes. Located in downtown Union, the restaurant is easily accessible by any means of transportation. The food is affordable and remarkably packaged. The evening no doubt could be described as a night of celebration of African cuisine. According to Ms. Laryea, this is the second time she has hosted such event at her establishment. The first one she said was a banquet, unlike this one which was a buffet. And it was equally patronized as this year’s. She hopes to continue with such events to increase patronage. In a chat with Amandla, Cynthia Laryea, the Managing Proprietor stated that she was in the food business for her love of cooking. “I am

not a caterer, I have a degree in finance,” she said. She intends to make African cuisine more presentable and attractive to Americans, most of whom are put off by the hot spices that characterize most African fare. Garden City Restaurant, also provides American and Caribbean food. Many of the people who attended the event agreed that it was the first time they would experience Ghanaian food in such agreeable environment outside what one described as the “chopbar” atmosphere. The music was engaging and on regular nights out with a loved one, Garden City Restaurant could compare with any of the restaurants in the area. The décor and the ambience in the premise also add a measure of so-

phistication not experienced in any African establishment in our local area. The mood is relaxing and the food engaging. This reporter, obviously impressed with the order in the presentation and packaging of the items could not help but describe it as Afropean (African European). Another patron inserted Ameri (America) calling it AfroMeripean. It was indeed a night of fun with a Chinese auction in which a bowl of food was finally sold for $185. Whether by design or coincidence, the winner of the bidding process, won the raffle which allowed her to take home a few packages of food. Almost everyone who attended the evening’s event went home with some food. See photos on page 10

Maxwell Opoku, CEO of Max $ Max Financial and Travel

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AFRICA! !EWS Côte d'Ivoire: Mbeki Arrives as Tension Mounts

Amandla Vol. 9 Issue 12 Dec. 15 -Jan. 16

Paul Ohia Former president of South Africa, Mr. Thabo Mbeki, tried to intervene yesterday in Cote d'Ivoire's growing political crisis after both candidates in the disputed election said they were now president, raising fears the country could again be divided in two. In the Northern opposition stronghold of Bouake, several hundred people marched down a main boulevard Sunday afternoon, calling for de facto President Laurent Gbagbo to stand down. Villagers wielding machetes also created their own checkpoint in protest along one major road in the region. "It's important not to have violence, not to return to war - to find a peaceful solution," Mbeki who was sent by the African Union (AU) said yesterday after arriving in Abidjan to try and mediate at the behest of the AU, the Associated Press (AP) reported. The international community has recognized Alassane Ouattara as the winner of the presidential run-off election held one week ago in the country, the world's largest cocoa producer. That, however, did not stop Gbagbo from defying calls to concede. On Saturday, he wrapped himself in the Ivoirien flag as he was sworn in for another term at the presidential palace. Hours later, Ouattara was sworn in elsewhere surrounded by United Nations' force. The development effectively set up parallel governments and raised serious questions about who was actually in charge of this West African

Côte d'Ivoire: AU to Discuss Election Dispute

Pretoria — An extraordinary session of the African Union Peace and Security Council (AU-PSC) in Addis Ababa is expected to deliberate on Cote d'Ivoire's election dispute. On Saturday, two men laid claim to Cote d'Ivoire's highest post. Incumbent Laurent Gbagbo was sworn in as the new president in a formal ceremony inside the presidential palace. Less than an hour and a half later, his rival, Alassane Ouattara, told reporters that he, too, had taken the oath of office. Cote d'Ivoire's incumbent President Laurent Gbagbo was sworn in as president on Saturday, amid defiance from his rival, former prime minister Alassane Ouattara whose victory was supported by the electoral commission and the international community, but rejected by the Constitutional Council. President of the Constitutional Council Paul Yao N'Dre announced at the ceremony that Gbagbo won the presidential run-off with 51.45 percent of the vote. The Constitutional Council said earlier that the provisional results announced by the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI) giving victory to Ouattara on Thursday was invalid. On Thursday, president of the CEI Youssouf Bakayoko said Ouattara won the election with 54.1 percent of the tally, against 45.9 percent for Gbagbo. The South African Government has noted the pronouncements of the Electoral Commission and the Constitutional Council on the outcomes

nation, which was split into a rebelcontrolled North and governmentcontrolled South by a 2002-2003 civil war. Despite Ouattara's international support, Gbagbo holds many of the key elements of power, including the army and the state media. The rivals' support also falls along geographical lines, with Gbagbo controlling the South and Ouattara controlling the North. This has led to speculation that each president may govern over his half of the country, in a de facto re-division of the territory along lines established during the war. The country officially reunited in a 2007 peace deal. Revised results released Friday showing Gbagbo won re-election did not include a half million votes cast in Ouattara strongholds in the North. The constitutional council said that was because there was evidence pro-Gbagbo voters had been intimidated. The move infuriated residents in areas where votes were thrown out, some of whom blocked a major road Sunday with tree trunks and rocks in protest. "We are no longer considered Ivoirien," said 48-year-old Ali Coulibaly, as other people lay in the road nearby to block cars from passing near the Northern village of Djebonoua. National identity remains at the heart of the split between the loyalist-held South and the North: Northerners have long complained they are treated as foreigners in their own country by Southerners. The question of who would even be allowed to vote in this long-awaited of the election in Ivory Coast and continues to monitor developments as they unfold in that country. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation said South Africa has welcomed the urgent convening of the extraordinary session of the AU-PSC in Addis Ababa to deliberate on this matter. "South Africa will take into consideration the outcome of the discussions of the AU PSC and other factors before pronouncing its position," the department said. Meanwhile, former President Thabo Mbeki has been requested by the Chairperson of the AU, Jean Ping, to travel to Cote d'Ivoire to assist the Ivorian parties to resolve the dispute over the results of the presidential elections of 28 November. BuaNews-Xinhua / allAfrica.com

Nigeria: New Evidence Reveals How Ken SaroWiwa Was Allegedly Framed Paul Ohia

Compelling evidence published by a UK-based newspaper, The Independent on Sunday, has shed light on how the late playwright and Ogoni activist, Ken Saro-Wiwa, was framed up. The newspaper accused the military commander of the Internal Security Task Force stationed in the Niger Delta region, Lieutenant-Colonel Paul Okuntimo, of ordering the

Former South African President Thabo Mbeki with Alassane Ouattara. Incumbent President Gbagbo is on the right. election took years to settle as officials tried to differentiate between Ivoriens with roots in neighboring countries and foreigners. Ouattara, born in the North, had himself been prevented from running in previous elections after accusations that he was not Ivoirien, and that he was of Burkinabe origin. "The risk of violence between supporters of the two parties, as well as repression by Ivoirien security forces against real or perceived supporters of Ouattara, is very high," said Corinne Dufka, senior West Africa researcher at Human Rights Watch. There have been reports of fatalities since the election crisis intensified last Thursday, although they could not immediately be independently confirmed.

Ken Saro-Wiwa killings of four Ogoni elders whose deaths led to the trial and hanging of Ken Saro-Wiwa, with eight others in 1995. Okuntimo was also said to have taken bribes from Shell to carry out the killings. The newspaper said it gained exclusive access to witness accounts that were to be used in evidence in the case of Wiwa vs. Shell, brought by Saro-Wiwa's family. The case was settled last May for $15.5 million, just days before it was due to start in New York. The settlement meant the testimonies were never made public. In the testimony, one of the witnesses, Boniface Ejiogu, who was an orderly to Okuntimo, offered compelling evidence as to who might have murdered the four Ogoni elders at a meeting on May 21, 1994. According to him, Saro-Wiwa was due to speak at the meeting between Okuntimo and the four elders but was turned away by the military. Then Ejiogu said he heard Okuntimo tell his task force commander to "waste them... in the army you waste

An official at the mayor's office said that two people were killed when police began firing at a slaughterhouse in the Porte Bouet district of Abidjan. Moussa Soumahoro said he saw police removing the bodies Saturday morning. Two others were shot dead outside their home in Issia after dark, said Adama Toungara, the mayor of the Abobo district of Abidjan, identifying the victims as his cousin and uncle. Toungara, who is a member of Ouattara's party, said his cousin was called outside first and shot, and that his uncle was shot afterward when he came looking for his son. The country was placed on lockdown immediately after the commission announced Ouattara's win last Thursday, with a decree read on state them is when you are shooting rapidly". Within 24 hours, Saro-Wiwa was arrested and charged with the murders by late head of state, General Sani Abacha, and later hanged. It was implied that he had had the elders killed because of their moderate stance on Ogoni issues. Despite an international outcry, he was hanged in November 1995, following a trial described by the then British Prime Minister, John Major, as "judicial murder". The new evidence also reveals that Okuntimo, whose troops were implicated in murder and rape, was in the pay roll of Shell at the time of the killings and was driven around in a Shell vehicle. Since the time of Saro-Wiwa's death, Shell has insisted that it had no financial relationship with the Nigerian military, although it has admitted paying it "field allowances" on two occasions. It has consistently denied any widespread collusion and payments. The new evidence provides fresh insight into Shell's alleged financial and logistical involvement with the Nigerian military and with Okun This Day. AllAfrica Global Media (allAfrica.com).

Nigeria: Five Die in Police, Boko Haram Gunfight

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TV saying the nation's air and land borders had been closed. However, borders remained open in the country's North, and residents there also were not observing the nationwide curfew. Gbagbo said he is the rightful winner of the runoff election, citing the Ivoirien constitution that gives ultimate authority on the issue to the country's constitutional council, which declared him the winner. Basile Zoma/Jacoline Prinsloo/Fraternité Matin Central figures in the Ivoirian crisis: challenger Alassane Ouattara, mediator Thabo Mbeki and former incumbent Laurent Gbagbo. However, Ouattara points to the 2007 peace deal, which states that the UN must certify the election results. The UN maintains the vote was credible, and that Ouattara won the presidential election. Gbagbo's five-year mandate expired in 2005 and the country's first election in a decade was delayed multiple times. He claimed first that the country was too volatile and that security could not be assured. He later cited technicalities like the composition of the voter register. The election went ahead in October but then headed to a runoff vote last Sunday. The country's election commission announced Thursday that Ouattara had won. However, new results released Friday on national television by a Gbagbo loyalist who heads the constitutional council said that the incumbent president had in fact been re-elected. Source: This Day.

An adherent of Boko Haram in teh grips of the military battle Saturday night. Police spokesman, ASP Lawal Abdullahi, told our correspondent yesterday that the gunmen attacked members of the Operation Flush security outfit in Kasurwar Shanu area of Maiduguri around 7:45pm, leading to a gun battle. He said three persons in a vehicle died after being hit by stray bullets. ASP Abdullahi said the gunmen escaped with the corpse of their colleague killed in the battle. He added that the gunmen had a narrow escape from security agents, assuring residents that the security agencies were in control of the situation. When our correspondent visited the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital(UMTH) the six persons, mostly women, who were injured were receiving treatment while the corpse of the three persons including a child was said to have been deposited at the hospital. Daily Trust. All / (allAfrica.com).

Yahaya Ibrahim

Maiduguri — The Borno State police command yesterday said five persons including two suspected Boko Haram gunmen died while six others sustained injuries in a gun

Afenhyia Pa OOO!!!

Amandla Vol. 9 Issue 12 Dec. 15 - Jan. 16

PHOTO REPORT

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Amandla’s lensman was at various events on Saturday, December 11. Below are some photos of some of the events

It was a family affair at the Garden City Restaurant on Saturday

Garden City Managing Proprietor Cynthia Laryea admires her own creation

A scene at the Garden City Restaurant

Max $ Max bosses Maxwell Opoku (CEO) and Michael Agyeman Yeboah VP

Staff of Max $ Max with two guests

Max $ Max Vice President Michael Agyeman Yeboah

Prince Kennedy Sampong an official of Max $ Max

Akwasi Amoo Anokye also of Max $ Max

Amandla Vol. 9 Issue 12 Dec 15 - Jan. 16

Page 9

AfriMETRO honors Africans at New York City Gala

Continued from front page

AfriMETRO’s gala featured honored guests including Her Excellency Ambassador Joy Ogwu Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the United Nations and Former Nigerian Foreign Minister and Former Director-General of NIIA and the Honorable Ibrahim Auwalu, Consul General of Nigeria to the United States. The Consul General of Angola Júlia de Assunção Cipriano Machado also attended. The event boasted a fashion show with original designs, dozens of Nigerian and African dishes, music, a silent auction and networking opportunities with dozens of professionals who came from every point around the globe. Special celebrity guests included the Gala Host Ngo Okafor, a model and former two-time heavy-weight champion and Actor Gbenga Akinnagbe who is known for his breakout role in the acclaimed HBO series “The Wire.” Mr. Akinnagbe will star in an upcoming Warner Brothers comedy “The Lottery Ticket” and currently is a guest star in the CBS series “The Good Wife.” AfriMETRO gala honorees included Dr. Chika Onyeani, publisher and Editor-and Chief of Africa SunTimes; Dr. Bruce Charash, founder and Chair of the Board “Doc to Dock”, a nonprofit that collects medical supplies and services and ships them to African countries; and Immaculee Ilibagiza, a human rights activist, author and survivor of the Rwandan genocide in 1994 who was unable to be present. In a brief but emotional address to attendees, Her Excellency Ambassador Joy Ogwu Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the United Stations emphasized how essential it was for her to be present since AfriMETRO is involved in essential and outreach involving such needs as health, literacy for youth and infrastructure in Africa. “This is a compass for all of us especially for the youth. …. I want to tell you that I share your aspirations not only for Nigeria, not only for Africa,

but for the world. By contributing to your own community, you are also contributing to everyone’s community. …. We believe that you will set the path to the future, grandchildren,” said Ambassador Ogwu who referenced the current tense political situation in Ivory Coast as the reason she was unable to stay for the full length of the gala. Keynote speaker Dr. Emeka Akaezuwa, a software technology expert and creator of the Universal Search Operating Software System that is used throughout the world, is a founding trustee of the Global Literacy Project. In his remarks, Dr. Ekaezuwa discussed his role in working towards sending 1.9 million books to underserved communities in Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, India, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This nonprofit works to ship books to Africa, the Caribbean and beyond, working not only to provide underserved community with books, but also in constructing library spaces, training library staff and providing technological resources to African school children and the community at large. Gala attendees viewed a short excerpt of the 2008 documentary on the “Doc to Dock” nonprofit, learning about how a rural Ghanaian hospital benefited from $400,000 in donations of medical equipment. As the program showed, once equipment and medical supplies went to a hospital in the Tepa District in Ashanti Region of Ghana, the hospital was able to better serve all patients particularly its’ very youngest: newborn babies and prematurely born infants. The hospital—and entire region— received their first sonogram as a result of the “Doc to Dock” supplies. The Tepa District also received incubators, baby radio heaters, birthing beds, mattresses, surgical and obstetric instruments. Dr. Bruce Charash noted this Ghanaian hospital is one of many throughout Africa that have serious shortages. Shockingly based on his professional observations on average, one out of five hospital patients in underdeveloped regions sleep on

Dr. Chika Onyeani (first from left) poses with some of the guests at the Gala the floor. “There are no sheets, no linens. There is a shortage of fundamental supplies, conditions are shockingly bad, he noted, fresh from a recent trip earlier this week to the Democratic Republic of Congo. In accepting a service award from AfriMETRO, Charash noted to the audience “You’ve come from a wide range of African countries … you are familiar with the many rural and urban hospitals with tremendous needs. But still we want to remind you that these hospitals need you. … I don’t think you should be motivated by guilt but by gratitude of how lucky we are and how much we can do to help others. …. Once again, I thank you as a fellow African.” Before receiving the award, Dr. Charash, a cardiologist by training, told Amandla that a doctor’s job is never done: In recent weeks and plane trips, every time he has flown individuals have often fallen unconscious and required medical evaluation and assistance. Indeed the night of Dec. 8th was no exception,

Strange Disease Killing local industry in Ghana Continued from page 2

The Government of Ghana has employed several mitigating factors to stem the diabolical spread of the disease. A joint France-Ghana-Cote d’Ivoire project was initiated in 1981. The research found out that the viral disease attacks plasma in coconuts. The World Bank and the European Union in 1991 and 1993 respectively funded the research on the vector disease. And again in 1997 France partnered Ghana in a 5year intervention program to revamp the industry. So far none of the scientific projects was able to nail how the disease is transmitted from tree to tree. Unfortunately, international funding and grants have dried up. The government of Ghana is now exploiting innovative ways that came out of research projects to revive the industry. Hybrids of the Vanuatu Tall and Pumilla Green Dwarf as well as Vantum Tall and Malayan Yellow Dwarf that have been known to be tolerant to the disease are being replanted on fertile lands. Thus far, an area of about 1,300 hectares has been replanted and a total of 1006 hectares of existing coconut farms that belong to

With the yellowing of the fruits come the wilting of the tree depriving it of its nutrients leaving it standing as an electric pole some 367 farmers in 29 communities were fertilized from 2000 to 2002. Stakeholders hope government finds funds for more research to alleviate the plight of coconut growers as was done during the period of the Akate cocoa disease. Until that happens the destiny of a whole chunk of coconut farmers would be at the mercy of Providence for survival. Varieties of coconut (Sri Lanka – Ceylon - types, Malayan Dwarf and West African Tall) were introduced in south-eastern Ghana as an estate crop in the early 1920s. Source: Ministry of Food & Agriculture, Ghana

Mugabe: Africa's 2nd Oldest Presidential Candidate? Tichaona Sibanda ZANU PF leader Robert Mugabe will this week create his own piece of history by becoming Africa's second oldest person to be endorsed as a Presidential candidate.

moments after AfriMETRO recognized Dr. Charash, he momentarily left the gala to speak to well-wishers. At the elevator he encountered a sick youth who was participating in a nearby Hanukkah party on the same floor who became unconscious and required immediate medical attention. Dr. Charash stayed with the youth until an ambulance came and then returned to the gala. During the gala, AfriMETRO also publically acknowledged the organization’s 2010 scholarship recipients who included Fatoumata Waggeh, a first-generation Gambian-American who is a sophomore at New York University; Dianne Mbeo a student at University of Houston and Ihuoma Nwaogwugwu originally from Benin City, Nigeria who is a collegebound high school student in Marietta, Georgia. Key AfriMETRO staff were also acknowledged including Elizabeth Omondi, AfriMETRO’s Community Liaison Officer and Nekpen Osuan, AfriMETRO’s Member of the Year. The event included authentic West African cuisine including Jollof rice,

chicken, Designer stew, fried plantains and more provided by Tope Durosinmi, owner of the Mirage African Restaurant in Brooklyn. AfriMETRO was founded by Ms. Folake K. Ayoola, who is also Chair and President of the Board. She currently works in Washington, D.C. as an attorney-advisor in the Division of Corporation Finance at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Ms. Ayoola attended Columbia University, School of Law where she obtained her Juris Doctor and Master of Laws degrees in 2004 and 2002, respectively. She is a member of the American Bar Association, the New York Bar Association and president of the Nigerian Lawyers Association. In 2008, she was recognized as the Top 40 Under 40 Nigerian Female Professionals by NiPRO International, Inc. for her academic prowess, professional excellence, community involvement, and philanthropy. Ms. Ayoola is active in numerous charitable associations and causes including breast cancer prevention and Dress for Success.

The one who still holds the record was the geriatric, senile, late lifePresident of Malawi, Kamuzu Hastings Banda. At 98 years of age Banda stood in Malawi's first democratic election in 1994, and was roundly defeated by Bakili Muluzi. If elections are held next year, Mugabe will be 87 years old, just 12 years short of Banda. By endorsing Mugabe to stand as their candidate for elections ZANU PF risks facing the same humiliation as Banda if the poll is held under free and fair conditions. If Mugabe did win an election held in 2011, his first term of office would end in 2016 when he would be 92. His opponents in the MDC contend Mugabe 'cannot win an election, but he can still steal it,' through intimidation and violence. Among other strong arm tactics used in the past to keep him in power were boundary changes, irregularities in registration, lack of access to state-controlled media and partisan security officials. Our correspondent Simon Muchemwa told us ZANU PF delegates to their conference in Mutare have already been whipped into line to endorse Mugabe's candidature for the elections. The conference will run from Wednesday to Saturday, with at least 5,000 delegates expected to converge on the eastern border city of Mutare. 'There are reports in the various media suggesting ZANU PF has yet to decide on supporting Mugabe's

stance on having elections next year. The politburo is reportedly divided on the issue, but once that is tabled before the conference, I don't think there is anyone who would dare challenge Mugabe on that,' Muchemwa said. He added; 'The fact that they will endorse him as their candidate for the elections means Mugabe still has his eyes on a poll next year.' Muchemwa said despite the stalemate at the politburo level, nearly all ZANU-PF provinces are falling over each other to endorse Mugabe's candidature for the make-or-break polls, intended to bring finality to the squabbles in the government of national unity. Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai recently said the country's elections cannot be held in June 2011 as demanded by Mugabe. He said that before a new ballot is organized a revised constitution must be in place with electoral reforms. 'It is not possible to have elections in June next year because we need to have a referendum first. I don't think at the moment you can conduct an election when the police, army, militia, war veterans are used to intimidate, coerce, and cause torture and death to the people,' Tsvangirai said in an interview with Reuters news agency. Observers have suggested that having the ZANU PF Congress in Mutare will enable the ruling elite to pop out and keep an eye on their diamond concessions at Chiadzwa. allAfrica.com

In Loving Memory

Amandla Vol. 9 Issue 11 Nov. 15 - Dec. 16

Elizabeth Owusu Sekyere (Abena Fosua, a.k.a. Maa Abena)

Ten years ago you departed from this earthly world, and the vacuum created by your sudden departure still remains with us. As we celebrate your life, we ask for strength, guidance, love and good health to carry on. We are strengthened by our belief that you’ve found perfect peace with God. Kofi Ayim & the Okuase/Bretuo family of Afidwase, New Juaben Sam Owusu-Sekyere & the Oyoko family of Afidwase, New Juaben Friends & Sympathizers

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Amandla Vol. 9 Issue 12 Dec. 15 - Jan. 16

Page 11

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Amandla Vol. 9 Issue 12 Dec. 15 -Jan. 16

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OP-ED

Erasing History:A Key Feature of the Bloomberg/Klein Regime in the !. Y. City Public Schools

By Mark aison

One of the characteristic of all dictatorial regimes is the rewriting of history to enhance claims to leadership. This was done by the Nazis, by Soviet Communists, and of course by white supremacists in the US who systematically erased all achievements by blacks, whether in the US or Africa, from the historical record. The same thing has been done by the Bloomberg Klein team in charge of the New York City school system, who has made it seem that everything that took place before them in New York City public schools was scandalously flawed and injurious to New York City school children. Racially charged rhetoric has been one of the major weapons in the campaign of intimidation the Klein DOE has used to impose a rigid test driven regime upon teachers and principals. One CUNY administrator allied with them, in a conversation

by Ukachi Uwadinobi The United States Senate, regarded as the world’s greatest deliberative body, was for far too long America’s most racially non-diverse political body, until 1992 when Carol Moseley Braun, a Democrat from Illinois, became the first African American woman elected to the United States Senate. It was an historic achievement not only for the African American community throughout the country but also for the American political establishment. Unfortunately her tenure in the senate was short-lived. Though Ms. Braun had served for only one-term, her landmark election to the U.S. Senate would serve as a stepping-stone for other African American politicians aspiring to higher national elective office. Indeed twelve years later,

U.K. Uwadinobi

The New Kid In Class? New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg, no stranger to controversy, has touched off another firestorm of protests over his appointment of Cathie Black, chairman of Hearst Magazines, as the next Public Schools Chancellor to replace outgoing Chancellor Joel Klein, who reportedly has been offered a senior executive position at News Corp. owned by Media Mogul Rupert Murdoch. Critics are angry with “Republican turned Independent” billionaire Mayor Bloomburg’s choice because she reportedly has no experience in the education field that would prepare her for running the largest public school system in the United States, especially one so beleaguered with problems. While indirectly acknowledging her lack of appropriate credentials in education and her relative inexperience with an organized labor union, the Mayor at the press conference announcing Cathie Black’s appointment praised her as “a world class manager” who would with time “learn the ropes at her new job.” That did little to pacify befuddled critics who are reeling with anger and wondering how on-the-job-training for a new head of the Public Schools system would be right for New Yorkers.

with me, called the New York City schools pre Klein/Bloomberg, a “criminal conspiracy against black and latino children.” If you have not spent much time in New York City public schools, or had little personal contact with longtime teachers and administrators, you might find this analysis believable. But as someone brought up by two parents who were lifelong teachers( at Jamaica HS and Eli Whitney Vocational HS), and revered by their students and colleagues, and who is married to a principal who is a legend in her school and neighborhood, I was predisposed to be skeptical of Bloomberg Klein portrait of what went on in New York City schools before they were put in charge. But really brought home the absurdity and injustice of their campaign was the experience I have had bringing the research of the Bronx African American History Project

into Bronx schools. Over the past seven years, I have spent time in more than 30 bronx elementary schools, middle schools and high schools, giving lectures and tours, doing teacher training, speaking at graduation ceremonies, and sponsoring school wide oral history festivals and my experience with teachers in those schools totally contradicted the image of a pre Klein educational wasteland that the DOE has been promulgating. First of all, the vast majority of teachers and principals who brought me into the schools to help incorporate community history into the classroom have been longtime veterans of the NYC public school system. From Phil Panaritis, the head of Social Studies at a Bronx District who first brought me in to present our research to teachers in his district, to Julia Swann, the network leader who had me do oral history training in

the 13 schools in her charge; to Gary Israel, the brilliant teacher and robotics coach who brought me in to help create a Museum in Morris High School, to Paul Cannon, the visionary principal who had our research team help him organize his entire school culture around community history,; the most impressive people I have encountered in Bronx schools have been longtime veterans of the New York City public school system, not hotshot young teachers brought in by alternative certification programs. All of these individuals, who are passionately committed to educational equity, were working to inspire and empower students long before the Bloomberg Klein team took charge of the schools, Many were products of the New York City public schools themselves. And they are not alone. During the course the lectures and workshops and tours that I give in Bronx

schools, which I do on the average of two per month, I have met hundreds of veteran teachers who are intellectually curious, invested in their students well being, and determined to try anything that will instill a love of learning in the children they work with. These people were all in the New York City school system long before Michael Bloomberg became Mayor Devaluing their accomplishments, and erasing them from history not only does violence to the real history of the New York City school system, it gives the leaders of the DOE license to implement policies which take power away from teachers and imposes a regime of rote learning and test preparation which is more likely to harm students than help them.

that hiatus was broken when a young little-known African American politician, Barack Obama, also from Illinois, was elected U.S. Senator. The election of Barack Obama to the U.S. Senate in November 2004 inspired hope again in the African American community. Charismatic, charming and intellectually eloquent, he projected the political skills that mirrored the image of John F. Kennedy, an American Presidential icon who came to the Presidency from the United States Senate floor. Eager to repair its image and regain its integrity before the American electorate after the Bill Clinton and Monika Lewinsky Oval Office scandal, the Democratic Party introduced its freshly minted, rising political star, Barack Obama to America at the Democratic National Convention of 2004 as keynote speaker for the

nomination of Massachusetts U.S. Senator John Kerry as Presidential candidate against President George W. Bush’s run for a second-term. It was an exposure that gave the world a glimpse of what lay ahead for Barack Obama four years later, barely one full-term in the United States Senate. The global outburst of emotional ecstasy that brought many to tears the night Barack Obama was elected President of the United States in November 2008 perhaps was best expressed by the front page headline of an Egyptian newspaper-- “Barack Obama, the one we have been waiting for.” In so many ways, the election on Nov. 3, 2010, of young Hispanic and charismatic Republican Marco Rubio to the United States Senate, “a son of Cuban exiles” as he calls himself, is a classic success

story for the Republican Party. It looks like something right out of the Democratic playbook of Barack Obama’s success story on the national political stage. And it seems to beg the question -- Could Marco Rubio be the one the Republican Party has been waiting for? For all the pompous talk and accolades which the right wing media pundits showered upon Marco Rubio following his historical electoral achievement, how the Republican party handles his ascendancy on the national political stage will become the big test for the GOP tent. If the response of a Caucasian Republican strategist to a question he was asked during an interview on national television is anything to go by, then we know that the GOP will be in trouble with another fast-growing demographic segment in the country

which holds potential electoral power. The Republican strategist was asked “As the most visible rising star of the Republican Party, do you think Marco Rubio should run for President in 2012?” “No! I don’t think he should run and he would not run,” the Republican pundit tersely responded. Could that response have echoed the thoughts of other Republicans regarding the possibility of another minority moving into the White House? After the euphoria of the midterm elections outcome has settled down, it seems to me that two years from now, we’ll know how big the GOP tent is if Marco Rubio says “Yes, I can!”

A Big Test for the GOP Tent

Meet !YC Schools Chancellearner

Like the tenure of outgoing Joel Klein, who came from the corporate world with no experience in education either and who was mired in controversy, Cathie Black’s choice is fueling the discontent and perception that Bloomberg puts his personal interests ahead of the public’s. The Mayor’s mindset that success in the city’s public schools system requires an executive at the helm with corporate experience doesn’t neces-

sarily hold true. No surprise at all. Because Bloomberg comes from the corporate world, many believe that he tends to see things pertaining to how the city government should operate through the prism of business. What is even more upsetting to the Mayor’s critics about his choice of Ms. Black, is that her children all went to private schools. Now that smacks of hypocrisy in the eyes of many New Yorkers.

Despite the negative perceptions of critics about her appointment as being based solely on her personal connections to the Mayor rather than on merit, interestingly, there is an opposite position in the debate about her suitability with positive views from others who say she possesses an enthusiastic public relations demeanor that would endear her to parents and the teachers union, as well as the shrewdness required to make

Dr. Mark aison is the Chair of African & African American Studies, Fordham University, ew York

Ukachi Uwadinobi is a freelance journalist in ew York City

tough decisions when necessary. That her appointment has stirred up opposition from critics does not mean that the same critics want Chancellor Joel Klein to stay. Far from it! Mr. Klein, even though he has had some notable success in improving school performance as well as in opening up charter schools to offer parents’ choices for their children, he’s had a turbulent relationship with the parents and teachers union over his eight-year tenure. “Klein was too insular, walling himself off instead of reaching out to parents and teachers,” a Daily News article reported that some of his colleagues said. Unlike Mr. Klein, supporters see the would-be new chancellor as “a terrific advertising person,” who will easily make personal connections with parents and teachers and work with them to achieve desired results. For now, Cathie Black’s appointment hangs in the balance. Given her lack of education credentials, the operating procedure in the City Council is that she would have to be granted a waiver by the Board of Regents to become the next NYC Schools Chancellor. And that’s the ultimate challenge which both she and the Mayor face.

Ukachi Uwadinobi is a freelance journalist in ew York City

Amandla Vol. 9 Issue 12 Dec. 15 - Jan. 16

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AFRICA! BUSI!ESS East Africa: Kenya Now in Full Economic Recovery, Uganda Still Tops

Amandla Vol. 9 Issue 12 Dec 15 -Jan. 16

Jeremiah Kiplagat Nairobi — Kenya is now in fullblown economic recovery, says a new study, with most factors supportive of consistent growth in the next three years, despite some fears of the approaching La Niña weather phenomenon. Meanwhile, newly oil-rich Uganda's economic prospects remain the brightest in the region, with growth reaching a high of 9.0 per cent in four years. Tanzania too is expected to enjoy steady growth in coming years. Much of the economic recovery of Kenya - which was battered by a political crisis after the 2007 general election and the global financial crisis thereafter - is credited to Central Bank measures that increased liquidity in the banking system, which in turn led to higher domestic borrowing, while continuing to support private-sector credit growth. More so than any other frontier African economy, Kenya has been commended for its successful handling of its borrowing requirements during the global financial crisis. The move by Central Bank of Kenya eased reserve ratios and the policy rate, consequently lowering the threshold for investment in government securities. This at the same time enabled microfinance institutions that mobilize deposits to be brought under the

Zambia: Nation Scales Up Agriculture EVoucher Scheme Newton Sibanda Lusaka — Zambian farmers could gain faster access to agricultural products and services with an electronic voucher scheme. The 'e-voucher project' - the first of its kind on the continent, according to participant Mobile Transactions Zambia Limited (MTZL) - covers the delivery of products including seeds, fertilizers and herbicides. Initial tests carried out in 12 districts this summer showed promising results, so the pilot was scaled-up and is now undergoing tests in 28 districts. It is a joint venture between the Zambian government and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) with 7.5 million (US$9.7 million) of funding from the European Union and 5 million (US$6.5 mil-

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regulatory ambit of the CBK, pumping funds into the economy. The CBK modified the schedules for T-bill and -bond auctions to ensure a sustainable low-interest-rate environment. The study by Standard Chartered Bank, entitled, "Global Focus - 2011 - The Year Ahead," and authored by Razia Khan, assesses the response to the crisis of the East African majors Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. The report, whose findings have been seen by The EastAfrican, says that the country's economic target for 2010 will be achieved going by current trends. It cites one of the key drivers as power consumption, which went up by 20 per cent in the 12 months to September 2010. Improved tax collections and an upswing in agriculture are identified as ensuring good outcomes. "Tax collections on consumer goods and income tax have all expanded well above the inflation rate," said a statement by the CBK, adding that Kenya was now on track to achieve Vision 2030. The CBK moved in to allow for more effective inter-bank borrowing between financial institutions, so the country was able to lengthen its domestic yield curve significantly (to 25Y) and raise more than $1 billion through infrastructure bonds, without forcing interest rates higher. While Kenya's progress since then

has been halting, tempered by bouts of adverse weather that impacted agriculture, hydroelectricity supply and manufacturing, most factors are supportive of a full-blown economic recovery. Despite the persistence of weatherrelated risks, Kenya should make progress, with a return to trend growth. The report says: "The success of Kenya's approach to financial-market development has benefited the real economy, and will remain a key growth driver in 2011. Thanks to a regulatory environment that favors innovation like the one seen, for instance, in the widespread growth of mobile-phone banking, Kenya has had greater success with financial inclusion than many peer economies." The proportion of the country's population with access to formal banking rose to 40.5 per cent in 2009 from 26.4 per cent in 2006. Kenya's banking sector was not left out. CBK says 85 per cent of the banks are expected to grow by at least five per cent, a rise from slightly less than 70 per cent of the banks expecting at most three per cent growth during the same period last year. Kenya's growth will possibly hit 6.5 per cent in 2013 if the predictions come true. But even before then, the country will still enjoy a steady rise from 4.1 per cent this year through

the next four years. Uganda Uganda's economy will remain the strongest in the region reaching a high of 9.0 per cent growth in four years, from 6.4 per cent this year. Tanzania, on the other hand, will grow but at a slower pace than Uganda. Though its projected growth will be higher than Kenya's in 2013, the pace will be slower because by then it would have grown by 1.2 percentage points while Kenya would have grown by 2.4 points. Uganda will outgrow its neighbors but by a slight margin of 0.2 points more than Kenya. One of the key pillars of Uganda's economic superiority is the expected commencement of oil production before the end of next year. The exploration is expected to generate $2 billion annually -- a huge relief for the country that has for many years been dependent on agriculture and donor financial grants to spur economic growth. The report says that Uganda, which is cutting down on donor dependency to 25 per cent of the budget in the current financial year ending June 2011 has maintained unwavering growth in the recent past. It praises the country, set to hold parliamentary and presidential elections early next year, for "its high level of economic liberalization and ongoing improvement in regional integra-

tion," but warns of imminent inflation as election money finds its way into the markets. Tanzania Though it was hard hit by the economic crisis last year, Tanzania has picked up and is now enjoying steady growth. The country's GDP rose from an unprecedented low of 5 per cent during the crisis to 6.5 per cent this year. The country was recording a trend of 6-7 per cent growth in the years before the crisis. This level will be achieved sometime in 2012, as growth is expected to further improve to 6.7 per cent in 2011. The country, which recently held elections that returned the incumbent President Jakaya Kikwete to power, may not find the going all that easy, though. Donor assistance will be rolled back this year by $220 million for the financial year ending March 2011 with donors citing dissatisfaction with "domestic revenue collection and governance and business reforms." The cut back is expected to play a major role in holding back growth, which will however be powered by mining, agriculture, construction and tourism. Donors had over the years been providing 40 per cent of the country's budget, but this year the support is down to 25 per cent.

lion) from the Norwegian government. Farmers who register with the scheme are eligible to receive prepaid mobile phone vouchers, each worth around US$53, to use at agrodealers. The software for the system has been developed by MTZL and approved by the Bank of Zambia as eligible to make payments. It processes more than 40,000 vouchers worth over US$800,000 each month, according to MTZL. "We are using mobile technology to improve access to financial services, and change the way companies, NGOs [non-governmental organizations], and government work with the banked and the unbanked," Hans Hesse, e-voucher manager at the company said. "Our vision is a cashless Africa." The e-voucher system is the first of its kind in Zambia and unique across Africa, although a similar system using printed vouchers has been used in Rwanda. "It replaces and enhances previous voucher systems that worked using paper vouchers," said Hesse. "E-

vouchers are more secure and allow instantaneous payment to the agrodealer." Rogers Phiri, president of the National Association for Peasant and Small-Scale Farmers, said the evoucher will help avoid monopoly by any single agro-distributor, and bring services closer to farmers. FAO country representative, Noureddin Mona, told SciDev.Net the project strengthens the distribution chains by stimulating competition in the market. It also speeds up payments to agro-dealers and helps them build better links with the wholesaler suppliers. "It gives farmers a choice in where they want to spend their money," Monda said. "A farmer can use their voucher at any participating agrodealer." But Agnes Yawe of the Participatory Ecological Land Use Management said other operational factors will determine the final benefits to the small-scale farmers. "The e-voucher system will only be appropriate if the voucher pack provides for diversity of inputs and services for a farmer to choose from," she said and

added that major input distributors and stockist have good urban networks but still lack rural networks.

coast has raised questions about whether Ghana can escape the "resource curse", where discoveries of valuable commodities fuels conflict and corruption instead of funding development. The oil is to start flowing following a ceremony attended by President John Atta Mills. Analysts have raised concerns about the lack of laws to manage oil revenue and the lack of an independent regulator for the sector. The government has said it is working to get an oil bill passed. The government has forecast that the oil will boost Ghana's economic growth rate from 5% this year to as much as 12% next year. Production is eventually expected to bring in $1bn annually, but Ghana's cocoa and gold already bring in billions annually. The Jubilee Field is estimated to hold 1.5bn barrels of oil. A second offshore field was discovered in September that is believed to hold another 1.4bn barrels. The fields are some of the largest oil deposits found in recent years. bbc

This is a Kente weaving loom designed and built by an American carpenter. Unlike the traditional looms used in Bonwire, this has wheels and is collapsible

Uwadinobi

Ghana due to begin pumping oil for first time Ghana's offshore oil fields are estimated to contain about 3bn barrels Continue reading the main story Related storiesGhana: time to address the oil issueAre Africa's commodities an economic blessing? The West African nation of Ghana is due to pump its first oil after the discovery of the offshore Jubilee Field three years ago. A consortium led by UK-based Tullow Oil hopes to produce 55,000 barrels per day, increasing to 120,000 barrels in six months. Ghana, one of Africa's most stable countries, is expected to earn $400m (£254m) in the first year. But laws meant to govern the oil sector have not yet been passed. The discovery of oil off Ghana's

allAfrica.com

E!VIRO!ME!T Ethiopia: They Have Become Farmers of Trees

Amandla Vol. 9 Issue 12 Dec 15 -Jan. 16

Omer Redi * Kafa — They have spent the better part of their lives destroying the forest, but Kochito Gabre and his cohort are now the guardians of a UNESCO-recognized resource in the Ethiopian highlands. After shrinking to barely half its original size, the Kafa Forest is now a model for sustainable use in the country. Home to over half of Ethiopia's remaining afromontane forest and the center of origin for the wild coffee Arabica, Kafa is a dense tangle of forest, bamboo thickets and wetlands 475 kilometres southwest of the capital, Addis Ababa. Annual rainfall here is over 2,400 mm and the area is watered by three major rivers, the Gojeb, Dinchia and Woshi. More than 100 plant species have been recorded here, and the forest teems with wildlife. Monkeys and gelada baboons can be seen along the roads, and locals say troops of these animals can destroy a farm in a single night.

Slash and burn gives way Decades of deforestation by smallholder farmers as well as large state and privately-owned farms destroyed 43 percent of the Kafa rainforest. "Farmers in this area use extensive and shifting cultivation making forest protection very challenging," said Terefe Weldegabriel, soil, water development and conservation expert at the Kafa Agriculture Office. Routine clearing of new farmland, the cutting down of trees for charcoal, fuel wood and timber; and expanding commercial farms threatened the forest in Kafa as in

the rest of Ethiopia, leaving vast areas parched, dry and unable to sustain farmers. But to visit 50-year-old Kochito's farm today is to step into a different vision for the future. Push through tall grass to walk among rows of coffee, avocado, and enset trees (a "false banana" tree grown for its edible roots). Kochito is the head of a local Participatory Forest Management group, which manages 1,200 hectares of forest. There are 60 PFMs in Kafa. Their members harvest honey, spices and wild coffee in the protected forest and grow coffee, cardamoms, long pepper (piper longum) and fruit in agro-forestry schemes on their own farms in buffer zones around the forest. "Just last year, I harvested 150 kilos of honey, 200 kg of coffee and spices from the deep forest, while producing fruits, coffee and other crops from my own farm," Kochito said. When they grew cereals, wild animals would frequently destroy an entire crop leaving families with nothing; their new crops are less vulnerable to animals.

Lessons took root Kochito got his start with agroforestry and sustainable harvesting of non-wood forest resources thanks to the efforts of Farm Africa, a UK charity that worked in Kafa between 1998 and 2004. The community took the lessons from Farmoch, as locals called the charity, to heart. "The forest is source of life for us. But we didn't realize we were destroying it so badly. We just focused

Ethiopian farmers work at a tree nursery

on our own needs and expanding our farms until Farmoch educated us," Kochito told IPS. The successful registration of more than 750,000 hectares as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in June 2010 will help to consolidate sustainable use of the forest. Biosphere Reserves are areas designated under UNESCO's Man and Biosphere (MAB) Programme to test approaches to integrated management of natural resources and biodiversity. "That our forest is recognized in the world is a motivation for us," Kochito said. The registered area is divided into three zones - a Core Zone, undisturbed forest that has always enjoyed a measure of protection by communities as sacred places; a Buffer Zone, in which locals practice various kinds of farming without harm-

ing the significant forest cover that remains; and a Transition Zone, land already stripped of trees, and occupied by farmers growing cereal crops and mechanized farms such as coffee and tea estates.

Sustainable future Kafa officials hope the recognition of the forest will enable products from the area, especially coffee, to fetch higher prices if they are recognized as sustainable forest products. People like Kochito are the key implementers of the Man and Biosphere Programme's principles, protecting the forest and rehabilitating degraded areas. The Berlin-based Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union (NABU), which was instrumental in applying for Biosphere Reserve status, has committed to assisting the locals. "We have now secured 3.1 million Euros from the German Ministry of

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Environment and Nuclear Safety to implement a number of projects in this area," said NABU's Kafa project coordinator Mesfin Tekle. The funding will support projects on sustainable coffee management, reforestation of 10,000 hectares, and distribution of 10,000 improved stoves as well as forest and climate change monitoring. But there are still challenges that endanger Kafa forests; deforestation is still going on by individuals and mainly by commercial farms licensed by the government, the agriculture ministry's Terefe told IPS. "We want UNESCO to support us beyond just registering the area as Biosphere Reserve. We are now preparing document detailing the kind of support we want and what we plan to do," he said. The local administration has developed a plan for reforestation, construction of roads, health and education facilities as well as farms protection through soil protection, agro-forestry, apiculture and value addition in the degraded Transition Zone. This story is part of a series of features on biodiversity by Inter Press Service (IPS), CGIAR/Biodiversity International, International Federation of Environmental Journalists (IFEJ), and the United Nations Environment Program/Convention on Biological Diversity (UNEP/CBD) - all members of COM+, the Alliance of Communicators for Sustainable Development (www.complusalliance.org). allAfrica.com

Nigeria: Revolutionizing Electronics Through Eco-Friendliness Godwin Haruna

Promoters of the Panasonic brand of electronic products contend that they exist to benefit people and improve society. The worldwide electronic giant held its annual convention in Nigeria last week where it showcased a number of the latest brands from its stable. Many of the distributors at the convention lauded the eco-friendly and energy-saving brands put on show at the Civic Centre in Lagos. There is no doubt that tuberculosis, malaria and HIV/AIDS are the major of Africans in recent times despite efforts unleashed by stakeholders and organizations to fight the pandemics in the continent, especially in the sub-Saharan Africa. In order to continue the fight, must of the funds to do Africa organized the Rwanda summit to give the private sector the opportunity to be part of the fight against the three pandemics. As they walked into the magnificent Civic Centre on Victoria Island Lagos, each of the distributors was elated and convinced that the products on show were dream products of any marketer. Although the occasion was the annual convention of the Panasonic Corporation, their array of products for 2010 were all on display for guests to savor the incredible technology behind the production of the electronic appliances. This major annual meet of the corporation is to review its brand presence in Nigeria. The ingenuity behind the products is even more enhanced by their low power consumption rate and eco-friendliness. As Mr. John Woma, public relations consultant to the group in Nigeria later revealed to THISDAY in an interview, these feats put the Panasonic products far ahead of its competitors.

"Due to the epileptic nature of our public electric supply, these products specially designed for the Nigerian market consume less electricity and this factor helps a lot even when we use our generators to power our homes and offices. Aside the new Japanese technology deployed to these products, there are durable and easy to maintain with trained service centers all around the sales points to rectify any fault detected," Woma stated. In his speech at the convention, Mr. Iwao Tsutsumi, General Manager, Panasonic Corporation, Japan said his company wants to deepen understanding with Nigeria. Tsutsumi said all the products being sold in Nigeria were manufactured with the latest Japanese products in line with the philosophy of founder of the Panasonic Corporation, which exists to benefit people and improve society. He said Plasma technology offers a number of important advantages with respect to 3D, such as cross-talk (overlap) reduction, crisp and clear high-quality moving pictures, enhanced luminance efficiency and improved picture-quality even when viewing 2D content. The general manager noted television has undergone a constant evolution over the years due to large number of technological innovations. "While at the start, it was merely regarded as a means for reproducing images, its significance increased when connectivity with other AV devices was added. With the growing popularity of HD televisions and the availability of high quality content, TV was yet again taken to a new level. Now, with full HD, 3D technology, it has turned into a device that delivers an immersive viewing experience and literally moved into an era of the 'next dimension," Tsut-

sumi noted. He assured the enthusiastic distributors that Panasonic now offers a lineup of full HD 3D products that meet the demands of even the most discerning consumers. The new range of Full HD 3D-capable VIERA Plasma HD TVs , he said, brings a new era of immersive visual entertainment into consumers' homes by creating a 3D experience that easily rivals the best that can be seen in cinemas. The general manager stressed that Nigeria was one of the corporations prized markets and noted its vision for the country thus: "To enhance the living the comforts of Nigerians in every region of the country, in concrete terms through farsighted products and service innovation with enduring values. Panasonic stands committed towards taking every important stride that is necessary to keep pace with the aspirations of its valued customers country wide, while pursuing its aim to be the number one Green Innovation company in the electronics industry by the year 2018 on 100th Anniversary celebration of Panasonic Corporation." Also speaking, Mr. Bhojraj Rupani, promoter, Panaserve Nigeria Limited, the major marketer in Nigeria, said its mission in the country is to lead the way in product and service excellence, delivering increased value to customers while promoting the general wellbeing of the society. Rupani stressed that Panasonic places a lot of emphasis on efficient after sales service and easy availability of spare parts apart from providing access to qualified technical personnel. He added that they have four efficient well equipped service centers in the country which cater to the consumer demand for genuine

spare parts, maintenance and after sales service. These centers, he said, are located in Ikeja, Victoria Island, Abuja and Kano. Manned by seasoned experts, the ultimate goal is to enhance the after sales and service experience by establishing service centers in all the major cities of Nigeria in the near future. "With a view to ensure the availability of Panasonic products in every nook and corner of this great nation, the dealers spread all across the nation are provided with adequate support for merchandising and are constantly exposed to the various advances in Panasonic product and technology through seminars and training sessions in Nigeria for the dealers as well as their technical personnel," he added. Representatives of a regulatory agency were on hand to vouch for the electronic appliances on display. Mr. Nelson Adebiyi, a director with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), who represented the Director General, Dr. John Akanya, congratulated the Panasonic Corporation for their continuous improvement in quality. Adebiyi noted that the electronic giants stood out in three parameters, which include, quality, price and delivery time. He also commended them for always trying to locate their services close to the people. The SON director said they have no difficulty in approving the product range from the stable due to their record of excellence performance over time. In his presentation, Mr. M. Obayashi, coordinator, marketing for CIS and Africa, said over the years, the organization has played a key role in promoting the comfort and happiness of Nigerians with top performing products particularly air

conditioners, audio visual products and home appliances. Obayashi stated further that those innovations in energy saving concepts, sophisticated designs, powerful cooling of its air conditioners and eco-patrol sensor are some of the definitive features of the Panasonic brand that puts them ahead of their competitors in the industry. In an interview with THISDAY, Woma said the hosting of the convention in Nigeria underscores the company's commitment and belief in Nigeria as a growing regional economic power in Africa. He said the convention witnessed the launch of new generation products into the Nigerian market. Among them, Woma stated, is the L32C22 LCD Viera Television exclusively designed and produced to satisfy the demands of the Nigerian market. Also unveiled at the event are the Panasonic 3D, LED and 'V' series range of televisions under the Viera television come with a panel made in Japan and Full HD among its prominent features. Woma said all the range of the latest products, which were showcased at the convention would be displayed at all the outlets throughout the country. These, he said, include all new vegirator refrigerators, air conditioners, audio systems. Home Theaters, home and kitchen appliances, cameras and lots more. The highpoint of the convention was the launch of "Yume", which is Japanese for dream campaign. The promotion would reward loyal Panasonic customers as it gives them an opportunity to take away lots of prizes in events such as "Scratch and win" as well as "Mega offer". Source: allAfrica.com

Amandla Vol. 9 Issue 12 Dec 15 - Jan 16

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FEATURE Pope Benedict xvi drops the c-bomb By U.K. Uwadinobi His Highness Pope Benedict XVI dropped the C-bomb over the clouds of Europe on November 20 when he said to a German journalist during an interview, that “condoms can be used, especially among male prostitutes, to stop the spread of HIV transmission.” The stunning reversal of condom condemnation to now condone condom use has sent ripples of apoplectic reactions among Christians in the secular world. “I was amazed to see that the pontiff had made the statement,” said a friend of mine. The injunction dictated by the doctrine of the Roman Catholic Church is very strict on morality concerning sex, and the Church so seldom changes its rules which have been in place for many years. The fact that the Church expected their married believers to rely upon the very unreliable rhythm method was

always ridiculous, and the fact that Catholic families did reduce in size over the years proves that the believers were using something other than the rhythm method--probably condoms or pills--which were doubly

frowned upon. The Pope’s specification of “male” prostitutes being allowed to use condoms and not husbands who philander is pretty unfair to the health of the wives. But any married couple who are true to

Merry Christmas! We used to say to each other not long ago. The spirit of Christmas would affect every home before December 25. Those were the days when we were young back home in Ghana. We would put on (or were made to put on) the best of cloths and shoes. Every parent, especially mothers would gradually save some money for Christmas shopping for her children. The clothes couldn’t be put on until the Christmas day. It is on this day that even the have-nots would strife to dine on sumptuous meal of fowl soup and fufu. The rich ones would have a goat or sheep for feast. We never mounted Christmas tree, and Father Christmas, the American Santa Claus out of reach. We heard about him, but never knew where he lived or when he would come to our village. Yet the air around was charged with the spirit of the occasion. In our new clothes we would start the yearly errand of visiting as many homes as our tiny legs and new shoes could carry us. At each home, we would be served portions of their Christmas feast and showered with Huntley & Parkers (misnomer “crackers”) Gem biscuits and/or portello/muscatella soda. We would string the crackers and use them as necklaces and hand bands as we move from house to house. Late afternoon we would go back to our families and enjoy dinner with visiting family members and friends. In the evening we would go to the center of the village to share the exclusive dinner with peers and have fun. If we were lucky to lay hands on “rocket,” bandit” or “nsoroma” firecrackers we would use them to play prang on friends; or throw them as far as possible, enjoying its lighted trail of sight and sound. That was our fireworks. We would go home late and exhausted to wait eagerly for another Christmas. For the initiated, the night before Christmas was a time for binge drinking. Christmas has been a time of excesses. Africans had known and celebrated “abundance of life’s sustainance” long beforethey came into contact with

mind is perhaps best illustrated by this scenario. So the male prostitute goes out with his condom in his pocket and when ready to use it has two thoughts in his mind, “Am I putting this on to save this person from getting my STDs OR am I putting it on to keep her from getting pregnant? I have to choose my reason so I can be morally right with my Church or I will go to hell for sinning, but since I’m sinning already by being a prostitute, what does it matter?” Boy, another Catholic conundrum! The Pope’s surprising statement condoning the use of condoms – in a limited circumstance or not–is a welcome shift from the illusions of a long-held dogmatic doctrine, which has been based purely on religious fantasy, to the realization of the practical realities of a contemporary global problem. Kudos for the Pope!

The other question that comes to

Christmas today – ‘tis a reason of the season! By Kofi Ayim

each other know that non-use of a condom is the most enjoyable way to have sex so if the husband suggested or insisted on using a condom to keep them safe (especially after the childbearing years), then the wife could have reason to be suspicious of what he might be doing outside of their marriage. In fact, the specific reference to male prostitute suggests a tacit affirmation by Pope Benedict VXI of the priestly sex scandal that has rocked the Catholic Church in recent times and for which he has been sharply criticized with many even charging complicity ostensibly by covering-up. The focus on male prostitutes makes one wonder if priests who stray use condoms. The incident of some nuns or parishioners getting impregnated by their priests would suggest that they don’t use condoms.

Europeans and foreign religions. The Homowo (hunger hooting) Festival of the Ga people of Ghana, the Ohum of the Akyems (Ghana), Kwanzaa (East Africa) etc are all First Fruits celebrated in given areas . In the Tekyiman area of modern day Ghana, there used to be a festival called “Fertile Monday” (bo me tuo), whereby “spiritual fertilization” of young women was celebrated (barrenness was/is considered a taboo). There is no area in Black Africa that does not give appreciation to the natural endowment of its resources. In times past in Black Egypt, the inundation of the Nilewas cause for celebration because of potential bountiful harvest of the land. The Romans were the first known Europeans to have celebrated such a holiday Saturnalia, a winter solstice festival of drinking, gambling, cross dressing and free for all debauching. It was a time when the cold weather helped to preserve meat and other produce. Because the winter solstice was characterized by dark, cold long nights, Saturnalia was a weeklong holiday. It was also a time when Masters would serve servants. It was indeed a “free” time celebrated after all the grains have been harvested by hardworking men, excess grains being processed into local alcoholic drinks ready to be enjoyed by all.. These merrymakers would go from house to house in inebriate mood demanding to be invited for whatsoever is available to be had. The Roman Saturnalia was to some extent akin to the Emancipation Day celebrated in the Caribbean -a time to remember freedom from slavery. Commercialization of the winter solstice has dimmed the essence of the once celebrated and glorified holidays. The once spirited occasion of giving and sharing willingly is being replaced by stressful and obligatory givings, compounding our indebtedness. Not surprisingly “Merry Christmas” is gradually being replaced with “Happy Holidays.” ‘Tis the reason of the Season - Happy Holidays folks!

A man, wearing only a bathrobe, bends over the Christmas tree to pick up a present. His young son looks up the robe and asks,

"Hey Dad! Who's getting the bagpipes?"

Ethiopia: They Have Become Farmers of Trees Continued from page 15

"This shall be a 'consumer dream come true' promotion, which would run for four months, beginning December 15, 2010 through April 25, 2011, with a lot of instant prizes to be won for every purchase and a monthly star prize to thrill consumers under the mega offer," Woma said. As a demonstration of faith in the 'Dream' Campaign, journalists attending the convention wrote their names on a card at the registration point. When the draw was made, Abdulsalam Abubakar of Silverbird Television won the brand new LCD 32 inch television, which was launched at the event. Abubakar was presented with his prize immediately at the convention by Adebiyi, who represented the director general of SON. Woma expressed the optimism that loyal customers of the Panasonic range of products would be picking prizes at all their locations when the Yume Campaign kicks off this month. Also speaking at the event, Mr. Motoda Takashi, said the basic concepts of the array of the audio

equipment at the convention are high quality sound, easy to use, networking and eco-friendliness. He said a combination of these concepts make Panasonic products number one in the world and Nigerians would be better for them acquired. He said with its apt theme: "Ideas for Life," Panasonic range of products are innovative and world beaters any day. He added that a dedicated iPod dock allows quick, easy connection of an iPod without the need for a cable. The SC-HC30 and HC20's remote control can be used to select music stored in an iPod or an iPhone. He added that music on these devices could also be used for the integrated wake-up timer. Woma concluded that the 2010 convention marked another golden milestone for Panaserv Nigeria Limited. Panaserv, he added, has over the years opened four full-fledged sales and service centers in the country to test its marketing strategy and ensure it touches base with the local culture. This Day. All / (allAfrica.com).

Kenya: Minister Praises WikiLeaks Alphonce Shiundu Nairobi — Kenya Justice minister Mutula Kilonzo has praised WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange for releasing the American diplomatic cables to the public. In a 15-minute interview with radio station Q-FM, Mr. Kilonzo said Mr. Assange had done a "good job" so that "Kenyans realize that this is their country". "I am actually quite pleased with the leaks...If I find him, I'd give him a medal," said Mr. Kilonzo. "He should not be persecuted by Americans. They should respect the freedom of information and of opinion." He termed the rape charges facing Mr. Assange in Sweden as "deliberate" attempts to frame the whistleblower and make him lose credibility. "It is ridiculous for them to go to Sweden and frame charges of rape," said Mr. Kilonzo. The Justice Minister said, the whole WikiLeaks episode was evidence enough that Americans were "pretenders of liberty". The whole episode has raised a global diplomatic row. Mr. Kilonzo had an unflattering message to his Cabinet colleagues, whom, he indirectly accused of implicating themselves and the Head of State when they meet ambassadors. He said there was "some truth" in reports that there was corruption in the Cabinet. "Even if it is one minister who is

Julian Assange, Wiki Leaks founder Kenya’s Justice Minister Mutula Kilonzo doing it and he's not been arrested and prosecuted, as the Wakambas say, it takes only one fly to rot a whole cow," he said. He added that by implementing the Constitution to the letter, then all corrupt people in the Cabinet will be shown the door. "It shouldn't stop there. We must arrest them, take them to court, then to jail and thereafter throw the key in Lake Victoria," he said adding that it was the only way to end corruption. "We must know that every time we speak with Americans, they don't love you, they're just spying on you," he said. He noted that the diplomatic dinners and cocktails are normally the primary sources of information to ambassadors. "In these cocktails, they interrogate you so that, later, they go ahead and abuse your leader. The fact of the

matter is that they'll be laughing at you," he said. The WikiLeaks saga has rattled the Kenyan leaders with President Kibaki and Prime Minister Raila Odinga having unkind words for the US ambassador Michael Ranneberger. Mr. Kilonzo told Q-FM: "I think it's a shame that we are 47 years old and every year before Christmas we are crying about corruption, corruption and more corruption." The latest leaks in Kenya termed the two principals as well as the Cabinet as anti-reformists. It also revealed in details the drug trafficking ring that's ruining the lives of hundreds of Kenyan youth.

Happy Holidays to All

SPORTS Desailly withdraws from Ghana coaching race

Amandla Vol. 9 Issue 12 Dec. 15 - Jan. 16

Former France Captain Marcel Desailly has withdrawn from the race to become the next Black Stars coach. The former AC Milan and Chelsea defender has reportedly received another offer from a European country and is considering his options The 42 year old was named in the FA Search Committee’s five man short list for the vacant coaching position last week. But the Ghanaian born Frenchman is not happy about the manner in which the announcement was made by the Ghana Football Association. “I’m a bit disappointed about the way things have been moving on where I have not been updated enough directly”, he said. The two time European Champions league winner added “It’s the media

who have really informed me about movement and what has been going on. “It’s been three months now since I positioned myself for the Black Star coach position and I have not heard anything, nothing official only newspapers.” Desailly has been criticized by sections of the media for his lack of managerial experience ever since he announced his intention to apply for the position. Grapevine sources say government is in favor of his appointment while the Football Association is thought to be keen on appointing a more experienced coach for the job. Desailly twice turned down the opportunity to coach the national team when it was offered to him by the FA in the past. The 1998 World Cup

Marcel Desailly winner did not seem too interested

when reminded that he has made the short list for the vacant coaching position. “Then good but look it’s not the main thing. You will see things will happen on Monday and Tuesday. “There will be an announcement and it is something that will be very clear from my side.” Desailly’s distinguished football career saw him win the 1998 Fifa World Cup with French national team and Euro 2000. He also played with several major European clubs, winning several titles. Addressing a press conference on Monday, December 6, Marcel Desailly said he is saddened to withdraw adding that the whole process looks cumbersome to him. Former Chairman of the Ghana Football As-

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GFA Boss Kwesi Nyantakyi sociation, Ben Koufie has described Marcel Desailly's withdrawal as unfortunate. He expressed his disappointment at the decision by the former France captain. According to Ben Koufie it is a bit unfortunate for Marcel Desailly to withdraw at this stage when the process is almost done. -- Daily Graphic

Russia, Qatar Get World Cups In 2018 And 2022 FIFA sent the World Cup into uncharted territory yesterday, handing the 2018 edition to Russia and going to Qatar in 2022. Russia’s selection came despite the no-show of Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, but his influence still had an impact on FIFA’s 22 voters as the bid won over England, Spain-Portugal and Belgium-Netherlands. Qatar brings the World Cup to the smallest host ever but one which has unparalleled financial clout to stage the world’s biggest single-sport event. It overcame objections about holding the games in desert heat. It beat the United States in the final round of voting 14-8. “We go to new lands,” FIFA President Sepp Blatter said. Often derided as a conservative organization, the decisions were a big gamble for FIFA, which could have

gone for assured sporting and commercial success by handing the event to England and the United States. Yet despite some criticism in FIFA study reports last month of the Russian and Qatar bids, it decided to go deep into Eastern Europe and right into the Persian Gulf. Following corruption allegations that led to two of the 24 FIFA executive committee members being excluded from the vote, the daring decisions that challenged conventional knowledge are bound to be controversial. England was eliminated in the first round of 2018 voting, earning only two of the 22 votes. In the second round, Russia won an absolute majority with 13 votes. “It is a great victory,” Russian bid CEO Alexey Sorokin said. Putin immediately hopped on a plane to Zurich to congratulate the bid team after hearing the result.

Sepp Blatter After three days of high anxiety when England sent Prime Minister David Cameron, Prince William and David Beckham for intense lobbying

and the United States counted on the aura of former President Bill Clinton, none were a match for the novelty promised by Qatar and Russia. “Thank you for believing in change,” said Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani. Qatar will stage a World Cup in and around Doha in a desert summer but promises state-of-the-art technology to cool fans and players alike. After the elimination of Australia, Japan and South Korea, it came down to a duel between the United States, promising huge commercial spoils in a key growth market, and the new territory of the Gulf region, still flush with riches despite the global financial crisis. All through its lobbying effort, Qatar stressed that the compact nation had the money, resources and high-technology to overcome any logistical objections.

The tournament would be held when temperatures in Qatar typically exceed 48 degrees C (118 degrees F). FIFA highlighted the potential risk posed by the heat. Qatar, though, pointed out that World Cups in Mexico 1986 and United States 1994 also faced massive heat and both were big sporting successes. Qatar is promising to spend $50 billion on infrastructure upgrades and $4 billion to build nine stadiums and renovate three others. No stadium would be more than an hour apart, while many would be dismantled and sections would be sent to poor nations. In the wake of the successful hosting of the World Cup in the once-divided South Africa, one of Qatar’s strongest arguments is that the tournament would have a transformational effect in the region. - AP

Fifa warns Ghana over government interference Fifa has warned the Ghana government that future interference in the administration of the game in the country could lead to sanctions. The governing body is disappointed that Ghana football, which is seen by many as a good example for other countries, is reeling under government pressure. Fifa made these conclusions after investigating claims of intrusion. Under Fifa rules, national football associations must not be subject to government control. But the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has recently come under intense pressure from government over various issues. The government withdrew its order to impose Abedi Pele as a candidate for a vacant Caf post after the GFA rejected the request two weeks ago.

Even though Fifa is pleased that sanity has been restored, the governing body warns that future attempts could have serious consequences. "We appreciate the fact that the government has now realized that it was not competent to nominate candidates for elective functions within the football organization structure," Fifa general secretary Jerome Valcke wrote in letter seen by the BBC. "However we would like to draw the attention of the government to the fact that the GFA must manage its affairs independently with no influence from third parties at stated in Fifa statutes. "Violations of such provisions might lead to sanctions as stated in Fifa Statues Article 17.13." Even though government has taken full control over the money its

Hayatou Denies Corruption Claims

by BBC's Panorama of receiving money from ISL over a decade ago. Panorama alleges that Hayatou received 100,000 Swiss francs (100,000 dollars) from ISL before the firm went under. International Sports and Leisure collapsed in 2001 in a controversy over alleged kickbacks for TV rights contracts. Hayatou told broadcaster France 24 that ISL had made a 25,000 Swiss franc 'solidarity' payment 'in the context of the organization of the CAF's 40th anniversary.' He added: 'We do not deny that ISL gave the CAF ... 25,000 Swiss francs. Nobody is contesting that. 'We do not see that we are concerned by what the BBC is reporting - it is

African Football Confederation (CAF) chairman, Issa Hayatou, last Tuesday rejected claims made in a British television documentary that he received secret payments from bankrupt marketing firm ISL. Hayatou is one of three members of world body FIFA's executive committee members — the others being Ricardo Teixeira of Brazil and South America's Nicolas Leoz — accused

GFA Boss Kwesi Nyantakyi spends on the national teams, attempts have been made by the Serious Fraud Office to probe payments the GFA receives from Fifa, other international bodies and sponsors. Fifa insists that the government must stay away from auditing the GFA's

accounts in respect to money received from sources other than government. "The government of Ghana could audit the GFA accounts related to the attribution of government funds," the Fifa scribe said in the statement. "This of course excludes the funds coming from other sources such as Fifa, Caf or corporate sponsors." Ghana football has soared over the past few years under Kwesi Nyantakyi's reign culminating in two successful World Cup appearances in 2006 and 2010. The Black Satellites gained rave reviews last year after it became the first African side to win the U20 World Cup in Egypt. Fifa fears that attempts by government elements to interfere in the administration of the sport in the

CAF Chairman Issa Hayatou something dating back 16 years. Why did the BBC not reveal that 16

years ago if it had proof of corruption?'

country could undermine Ghana progress in world football. "GFA has been achieving outstanding results during the past few years on the continental and world football scene for both it's a team as well as for its youth teams," Fifa said. "This is testimony of the great work the GFA has been carrying out in favor of football development. "Ghana is a shining example for Africa and for the world in this aspect. It would be a real pity if these efforts were thwarted by misunderstanding from the government." Despite these concerns Fifa insists the GFA must establish a good relationship with the government for football to continue to thrive in Ghana. Source: BBC And Hayatou said he had 'no fears' that the affair would spill over and affect the attribution of the 2018 and 2022 World Cups in today's secret ballot of FIFA's 22-member executive committee. Hayatou insisted that: 'I have no fears as far as I am concerned' and added that his conscience was clear. He also said he did not oppose an investigation, as called for by anti-corruption watchdog Transparency International, into corruption concerns. 'If they want to hold an enquiry, who can stop them? We have nothing to hide — if they want to hold an enquiry then let them come and do so. The doors are open.' — AFP

Amandla Vol. 9 Issue 12 Dec. 15 -Jan. 16

ARTCULTAINMENT NJPAC'S ANNUAL KWANZAA CELEBRATION IS DECEMBER NEWARK, NJ (November 23, 2010) -- The New Jersey Performing Arts Center's annual Kwanzaa Festival and Marketplace, one of the only endowed Kwanzaa celebrations in the United States, runs Friday, December 17 through Sunday, December 19, 2010. An integral part of NJPAC's holiday celebrations each year, Kwanzaa, a weeklong secular cultural and community celebration, is observed through varied dance and music performances, a tribute to community elders, a marketplace for holiday shopping, free activities for children and families, and ceremonies honoring members of the community. This year's Kwanzaa celebration will coincide with and inspirational performance by BeBe and CeCe Winans with Jubilation Choir at Prudential Hall at 8 p.m. on December 17 and include two powerful performances from Step Afrika!, in the Victoria Theater at 2 & 5 p.m. on December 18. Kwanzaa is a seven-day, nonreligious, cultural celebration observed annually from December 26 to January 1. It is based on seven principles called the Nguzo Saba, which may serve as a guide for daily living: Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia, (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity) and Imani (Faith). A Tribute to the Elders: Honoring A Heritage, an integral element of the Festival celebration, takes place in NJPAC's Chase Room at 5 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 17th. The Tribute will honor community elders and devoted Newark educators Dorothy Anderson and Charles Nolley, with Baba Chuck Davis as Master of Ceremonies. At 8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 17th, BeBe and CeCe Winans with special guest Jubilation will bring praise, worship and inspirational gospel to Prudential Hall. On Saturday, Dec. 18th at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m., NJPAC will welcome Step

Afrika!, the first professional company in the world dedicated to the rich tradition of stepping, an art form born at African American fraternities and based in African traditions. . On Saturday, Dec. 18th at 8 p.m. at Prudential Hall, come out for the Rhythm Revue Dance Party with DJ Felix Hernandez, an annual groovefest right up on the Prudential Hall stage. At 3 p.m. in Prudential Hall on Sunday, Dec. 19th, watch classical music and classic rock combine during Handel's "Messiah Rocks," a contemporary take on George Frederic Handel's most performed oratorio. One of the highlights of the NJPAC holiday season, The Kwanzaa Marketplace, will transform the Prudential Hall lobby into an exciting shopping village filled with local and New Jerseybased vendors selling handmade jewelry, art, books, bath and body products, designer clothing, kente cloths, home furnishings and much more. The Marketplace will run from Friday, Dec. 17th from 4-10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 18th from noon to 10 p.m. and Sunday December 19th from noon to 7 p.m. The fun-filled Kwanzaa Children's Festival, taking place in NJPAC's Center for Arts Education, is host to numerous FREE family activities happening on Saturday, December 18th from noon to 5 p.m. Activities include the Arts and Crafts Village, featuring over 14 hands-on activities from visual artists, the Delta Sigma Theta North Jersey and Montclair Chapters, as well as Supporting our Sisters and Embracing Arms that manifest the principals of Kwanzaa. There will also be a glass art demonstration by GlassRoots, a Zumba dance class and healthy snacks provided by Programs for Parents, and a Children's Book Fair by Just Us Books. In the Children's Storyrooms, hear stories from Julie Pasqual and celebrate diversity through the power of the word with Queen Nur. Participants

can also learn about the history of Kwanzaa and the 7 principles with C Katunge Mimy, The afternoon will feature a number of World Music Demonstrations. From 2 to 4 p.m., participants can practice and learn the rhythms and songs of Africa by way of Haiti during an Afro-Haitian Drumming session with Master Haitian drummer Bonga Jean Baptiste. From 3:30 to 5 p.m, children of all ages can learn the AfroBrazilian martial art form during a Capoeira Workshop. And from 2 to 3 p.m. and 4 to 5 p.m. in the Prudential Lobby, everyone can enjoy the infectious rhythms, songs and dance of African, African American, Caribbean and Native American traditions during performances by Heritage O.P. A perennial favorite at the Children's Festival, two FREE African dance classes will take place in NJPAC's Chase Room and the Center for Arts Education during the festival. Karen Love, Artistic Director of Umoja Dance Company, will teach children of all ages African rhythms and movement from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m., and Adia Whitaker, artistic director of the ASe Dance Theatre Collective, will teach AfroCaribbean Dance from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), located in the heart of an emerging downtown Newark, New Jersey, is the sixth largest performing arts center in the United States. Home of the Grammy® Award-winning New Jersey Symphony Orchestra, NJPAC has been widely cited as a catalyst in the revitalization of New Jersey's largest city, attracting over 6 million visitors (including more than one million children) in its first twelve years of operation. NJPAC is a wheelchair accessible facility and provides assistive services such as TTY ticket purchase, designated seating, Sennheiser infrared listening devices and seat cushions. Call JPAC for more details

SAKABO

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Turkson – the Son of a Turkey It was Saturday morning and as usual, I trekked to one of the most patronized African stores looking for a flyer that announces an evening event. I had three flyers all free events - to choose from. I quickly dismissed the first one. It was an imported funeral. Someone was organizing a funeral for the niece of his mother-in-law’s friend’s sister, who’d died about five years earlier back home. The relationship between the host and dead person was not in any way consanguineous. This manner of “fundraising” is not for Sakabo; not in my present predicament as a guest of the Ministry of Housing, Section 8 Home Division. Besides, I did not think there’d be much by way of booze. The second flyer was an all day naming ceremony in someone’s home. I detest private home events because for one thing, you cannot enjoy yourself without the preying eyes trailing or tailing you. Plus, you cannot eat, drink, dance and leave without making a donation. The third flyer was God-sent. It announced the outdooring of twins in a spacious downtown hotel - free. I uttered “thank you” to Akuamoah yame, my ancestral family God. I went to the place late in the evening and was not disappointed. Because it was an event for twins, everything was doubled – food, drinks, and even the birds. “This is my turf” I said in a manly resolution as I sneaked to take what seemed like the last available seat. I realized that the five others on my table were all birds – young and beautiful ones. “Good evening ladies” I greeted. The response wasn’t all that great, but I didn’t go there to greet and be greeted. I went there to get away from that witch landlady of mine and to have a good time. “Any of you care for a drink” I asked. The one sitting close by asked for an orange juice while the rest said nothing. I came with three shots on the rocks and an unopened can of orange juice without a cup. Suddenly, the place was enlivened with a popular song and the birds flew onto the dance floor, except the one sitting close by who’d asked for a drink. I took a cursory look at her and told her I liked her flowing dress. She smiled and thanked me and cutely reminded me that I forgot to add a cup to the orange juice. “Awura,” I started “I didn’t forget.” In places such as this, never drink from a cup that’s filled in your absence, and especially from someone you barely know. Now I can go get you a cup so it’s poured in your presence. She was genuinely surprised with the hon-

esty and insight. No, no, no, she protested. I’ll drink from the can. “Smart one” I praised her. What do you do? She wanted to know. Since you started the preamble, why don’t you go ahead and tell me what you do, I urged her. “I am a practicing attorney” And your name? I probed. She pulled a business card and handed it to me. Hmmm I sighed. “What?” she asked. Nothing, Leticia Lorna Turkson Esquire, I pronounced. I thought you were an African Ms. Turkson or is it Mrs. Turkson? Of course I am an African because I am a Ghanaian and it’s Ms. Turkson, but you can call me Leticia. Now you tell me Mister, what do you do? “Nothing” I reply. She seemed hurt but didn’t want to show it. “And your name?” Kwasi Sakabo, I replied again. “Why do you want to insult me” she sadly opined. I put it to you that I don’t lie to women, your Honor. And I am also unmarried, I added before she could ask. This is all the truth, nothing but the truth about Kwasi Sakabo from the holy village of Addo Nkwanta. For heaven’s sake can you stop these legal semantics, she pleaded. Is it really true your name is what you told me? I swear by Akuamoah yame! Stop it!!! She screamed above the blasting music, I don’t like those things to be invoked in my presence. Do you believe me then? Yes, I do, I promised. You said you are not working, why? Nkrataa! I said as a matter of fact. Can I come see you in your Chambers for help then? “Which Chambers, home or office?” she teased. “Both” would be nice, I said encouragingly. “You seem so intelligent and good mannered. I wouldn’t mind about your current status because there could be a way out, but your name. “What’s wrong with my name?It’s too kokooase nkurasefuo din. Where are you from? She wanted to know. I told her but I sensed she was disappointed. The way you pronounce “r” gave you away but ... Where did you think I came from, I cut her off before she could finish. Let’s leave it as is because I don’t want to get into the dirty politics of Ghana. Listen up, baby. At least, Kwasi Sakabo is a name with identity more than the stolen identity of Leticia Lorna Turkson? What does Leticia or Lorna mean? Maybe Turkson means the son of a turkey. Akuamoah Nyame, so you are Krokroba!!! Or you’re from Turkey! She didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. How about if you were to become Mrs. Sakabo? It could happen, but my friends would make fun and laugh at me, she volunteered. “For being married?” No, it’s the name thing. Can’t you anglicize it to Qwazi Sacks or something like that? “Like what? I asked but she couldn’t explain. “Woman” I started “Kwasi Sakabo is a sacred name given to me in a religious ceremony. It has cultural and spiritual meaning and you want me to shorten it to Qwazi a name of Arabic heritage and Sacks, a European identity. Is that what they teach in Law School?” I asked. I would suggest you bleach your skin to fit your name. I am yet to see a European called Kwasi Sakabo. You know why? I put it to her again. “No, why?” she asked. “Because they are not out of their minds. “School without education is dangerous.” I pointed out to her. “But I have my Law degree” she defended. That’s exactly the point I am trying to make. School degrees have nothing to do with education. Structured classroom lectures cannot educate the mind because it is not a deep thought provoking system. Otherwise why wouldn’t you understand that your prime identity has to reflect your socio cultural and religious environment? “You have a point there” she conceded. Which day were you born? “Tuesday” she told me. Your name therefore should have been Abena Krokroba, a name no white person can claim or even ape! Now all what we need to do is perform the naming rites. And that can be done between the two of us in your Chambers! Happy Holidays, Krokroba Abena!! Sakabo is an adults’ only series that must be read in its entirety for proper understanding.

Garden City Restaurant

Amandla Vol. 9 Issue 12 Dec. 16 - Jan. 15

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(Specializing in African Cuisine)

Come taste of Africa in a very homey and professional environment.

Our specialties include: Pounded Yam with Egusi or Ogbono Soup Jollof Rice Ricci Bicci (Waakye)* Banku and Tilapia or Okra Soup Fufu and Goat/Chicken/Fish Soup Red Red (Yellow Plantain with Beans Stew) * Comes with fried yellow plantain, your choice of chicken, Goat or Fish

We offer both on and off site catering services with a variety of dishes including continental dishes. (Parties, Bridal/Baby Shower, Corporate Functions, Family Meals, etc)

We insist on quality and would work with you on your budget. Let us take care of the meal whiles you prepare to have fun! Hours: Mon-Wed 11 am – 8 pm Thur-Sat 11 am – 10 pm Tilapia & banku

jollof & baked chicken

egusi(egwusi) soup

Closed on Sundays (opened for pick up catering orders only) fufu with goat soup

985B Stuyvesant Ave, Union, !J, 07803 Tel: 908-686-7392 Fax: 908-686-7393

PUBLIC A!!OU!CEME!T

MINISTRY OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY - GHANA IMPORTATION OF BANNED/PROHIBITED GOODS It has come to the notice of the Ministry of Trade and Industry that some importers have been importing banned or prohibited goods under various guises in spite of the existence of Legislative Instruments banning such imports and the reminders that the Ministry continues to give in the form of public notices. The Ministry wishes to bring to the notice of all importers and the general public that importation of the following items: secondhand mattresses; used/secondhand handkerchiefs, men, women and children’s underpant and sanitary ware, are banned under the Imports and Exports (Prohibited Goods) (No.2) Regulations, 1994 (L.I.1586) and no person shall import any such goods for commercial purposes or in commercial quantities into Ghana. Also under the Prohibition of the Importation of Used LPG Cylinders, Legislative Instrument (L.I. 1693): 2001, the importation of Used Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Cylinders into Ghana for commercial purposes or in commercial quantities is prohibited. Importers are to note that under no circumstance will they be permitted to clear the goods described above for commercial purposes or in commercial quantities from ports. Any such goods imported will be seized and destroyed by Customs at the point of entry. Importers are therefore advised in their own interest to desist from commercial importation of these4 used/secondhand goods into the country. Issued by the Communications and Public Affairs Directorate

Amandla Vol. 9 Issue 11 Nov. 15 - Dec. 16

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