Afriqan Times Magazine _ June Issue

Australia’s Premier Monthly African Magazine BRISBANE • PERTH • MELBOURNE • SYDNEY • ADELAIDE

June 2011 • Issue 9

Applause: Genevieve Nnaji INSIDE

Special Wedding Feature:

African Mystery behind Will and Kate

Keeping African wedding traditions alive Subscribe & Win

The Airfare Experts.

Every destination. Every airline.

Flights from Perth

Johannesburg from

Return

1529

$

Cape Town

*

from

Return

1799

$

*

* *

Durban Return

1729

$

from

Mauritius *

Chobe & Vic Falls

Great Trek Adventure

11 days Geckos Tour

4 day Intrepid Lodge Safari

21 day Bench Safari

Kruger Breakaway 7 days Geckos Tour

INCLUDES Tour from Johannesburg

with 4 nights camping & 2 nights lodge accommodation, most meals, transport & services of a safari guide.

HIGHLIGHTS Guided walks & game drives in open 4WD vehicles * in Kruger National Park. from$1619

INCLUDES Tour from Livingstone with

3 nights lodge accommodation & most meals.

HIGHLIGHTS Victoria Falls & safari drives in Chobe * National Park. from $2355

Serengeti Walking Safari 6 day Bench Experience

INCLUDES 5 nights accommodation,

all meals, bottled water, game drives, park fees & services of National Park guides, 4x4 safari vehicle with driver & guide & back up crew & vehicle.

HIGHLIGHTS walking in the Serengeti National Park combined with vehicle based game viewing & visits to the Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara National Park * & Olduvai Gorge. from $3955

For more information on these and other great deals visit

flightcentre.com.au

*

Mauritius Holidays

Road to Mozambique to Tofo Beach with 5 nights camping & 1 night lodge, 1 night hotel & 3 nights bungalow accommodation, most meals, park fees, transport & services of a safari guide. HIGHLIGHTS Kruger National Park, Swaziland’s Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary * & Mozambique’s beaches. from $1455

*

from

Africa Tours INCLUDES Tour from Johannesburg

Return

1449

$

*

Mauritius

INCLUDES Tour from Cape Town to

Johannesburg with 17 nights camping & 3 nights lodge accommodation & most meals. HIGHLIGHTS Fish River Canyon, dunes of Sossusvlei, the waterholes of Etosha National Park * from $3775 & Victoria Falls.

Mama Africa 79 day Geckos Tour

INCLUDES Tour from Johannesburg to Kigali

We have over 600 stores across Australia.

1695

$

*

from

INCLUDES Return flight with Air Mauritius, STAY 5 & PAY 4 with breakfast & dinner daily & return transfers.

Mauritius 5 nights

with 78 nights accommodation, most meals, park fees, transport & services of a safari guide.

HIGHLIGHTS Specialist guide at the Cango Caves, Okavango Delta & Chobe National Park, game drives in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi National Park & Addo Elephant National Park, visit Zululand, Drakensberg Mountains, Western Cape, Cape Town, Swakopmund, Victoria Falls, Tsitsikamma, Namib-Naukluft * from $9895 & Etosha National Park.

Visit us in store.

Flights + 5 nights

INCLUDES STAY 5 & PAY 4 with breakfast

& dinner daily, return transfers & use of selected water/land sports & activities * from $439 programmes.

Mauritius 5 nights All Inclusive

INCLUDES STAY 5 & PAY 4 at the Club

Fiesta @ Tamassa, breakfast lunch & dinner daily with selected alcoholic & non-alcoholic beverages, return transfers & use * of selected land & water sports. from $719

1300 505 908

Applies to genuine quotes from airlines and Australian registered businesses and websites for travel that originates/departs from Australia. Quote must be in writing and must be presented to us prior to booking. Fare must be available and able to be booked by the general public when you bring it to us. Fares available due to membership of a group or corporate entity or subscription to a closed group are excluded. Must be for same dates and flight class. We will beat price by $1.00 and give you a $20 voucher. For full terms and conditions see flightcentre.com.au. *Travel restrictions and conditions apply. Please ask us for further details. Prices and taxes are correct as at 20 Apr 11 and are subject to change without notice. Prices quoted are on sale until 31 May 11 unless otherwise stated or sold out prior. Prices are per person and are subject to availability. Accommodation (if included) is based on twin share. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply depending on date of travel. Prices shown are fully inclusive of taxes, levies, government charges and other applicable fees. Flights not included unless otherwise stated. Where flight is included, additional taxes specific to your flight routing may apply and/or may not include checked luggage (which can incur additional charges). Payments made by credit card will incur a surcharge. Prices shown are for payments made by cash in store. Advertised price includes any bonus nights. Minimum/maximum stay restrictions may apply. Advertised Price for some tours includes a local payment payable direct to your tour guide on Day 1 of your trip in local currency. Currency exchange as of 18 April 11 on www.xe.com. Price is subject to currency fluctuations. FROM PERTH. Flight Centre Limited (ABN 25 003 377 188) trading as Flight Centre. Licence No.9TA 589.

WAMK47128

▼

WAMK47128_Afriqan Times_278x215.indd 1

21/04/11 2:26 PM

14

s.

e.

9*

r ic

19*

8

ble to be ve you a e on sale el. Prices d luggage sed Price Limited

AMK47128

2:26 PM

Applause:

IN THIS ISSUE

Genevieve Nnaji

04 Dream Honeymoon

destinations in Africa

06 Moments 08 Afriqan & Distinguished:

David Hamilton - Tanzanian born believer who ended up living his dream

12

My AFRICA Introducing Mozambique

14

Applause Genevieve Nnaji – Nollywood’s Diamond

16

African take on the Royal Wedding

17

Best in the Wedding Business

21

Yes, I am Afro Aussie Wedding Special - Noria

16

33

22 Weddings African Way

Keep Traditions Alive

24 A Billionaire Next Door 26 Eyes on Painted Dog 28 Yes, I am Afro Aussie

Sarah

30 The Princess and the Frog 31 Movies we recommend 32 Obsessions 33 Rugby 7’s

Just like going to Nairobi for Christmas

34 This Month in History 35 Subscribe & Win

We are giving away Rokingham Wild adventure for the whole family

Founders Circa 2009 • Emmanuel K Solomon, Gabriel Gomado

The Afriqan Times welcomes comments and suggestions, as well as information about errors that call for corrections. We are committed to presenting information fairly and accurately.

The Afriqan Times Level 28, AMP Tower 140 St Georges Terrace Perth WA 6000 P. O . Box 445, South Perth 6951, Tel: 1300 A TIMES (1300 2 84637) Fax: +61 8 94636232 Feedback: info@afriqantimes.com - News inquiries: editor@afriqantimes.com Advertising inquiries: len.fretwell@afriqantimes.com • Mobile: 0417 001 080 Editor : Lena Kozak-Fretwell - Writers: Rumbidzai Chekeche, Tendai Kambikambi Guest Writers: Sunshine Kamaloni, Stephen Kuria Special features by Emmanuel K Solomon Graphics: Elvin Wong Photography: Emily Dimozantos, Alex Ngeno, Pawel Sowa Subscription: www.afriqantimes.com/temp/subscribe Publishing Information: The Afriqan Times is Australian owned and operated.

Afriqan Times Pty Ltd ABN: 521 386 161 09 / ACN: 138 616 109.

COVER: Noria Chazarira - Yes, I am Afro-Aussie!

Dress by Bridal Affair * Photography by ITN Photographics * Hair style by Whatever for Hair

JUNE 2011 • AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE 3

FROM THE EDITOR Contact the Editor: lena.fretwell@arfiqantimes.com

J

une is traditionally regarded as the most popular month for celebrating a wedding event in Australia. Some say it’s because it marks the start of moderate temperatures and favourable weather, while others chalk it up to a wider and cheaper array of flowers and venues available during the month.

From the engagement party to a honeymoon trip, wedding can be stressful (unless the wedding isn’t yours). It is important to remember that it’s not the wedding day that matters, whether it’s big or small, but life after the wedding.

There are plenty of wedding checklists around, usually a couple of pages long, to minimize your stress. None of them take to consideration the mix of different cultures and traditions.

So, here are a couple of questions to ask yourself: are you of the same background, do your family and friends understand the culture of your spouseto-be, what African rituals will you bring to your Australian wedding and vice verse. Decide on what you want and take it easy if doesn’t go the way you planned it.

Dream Honeymoon Destinations in Africa:

The Kruger National Park is the grandfather of game reserves. You can choose between overnighting in a bungalow, a luxury private game lodge, a hotel, a tent, or whatever suits your budget.

Steeped in legend and history, the iconic park in South Africa is waiting for you to explore its vast landscapes and spectacular African wildlife. Enjoy thrilling game drives and walking safaris – find out what it is like to be close to a pride of Lion, feel the excitement and intensity of a South African safari

The Victoria Falls will leave you awestruck. This natural wonder of Africa throws itself vigorously over the edge of a broad ridge, the deep thunder of the waters heralding the drama and magnificence of the waterfall long before it’s even in sight. It’s no wonder it’s named after a queen! From bungee jumping and ballooning over the falls, to white water rafting, there will never be a dull moment in this inspiring place.

A diver’s paradise, Mozambique stretches for two and a half thousand kilometres along Africa’s southeast coast.

There’re lots to see, including stunning beaches and islands, charming colonial architecture, and colourful local cultures. It’s a country where you can enjoy an unspoiled island oasis in total tranquillity, where you can wander through the markets collecting souvenirs or just take in the buzz around you.

Mauritius with its colourful sea-life provides a playground for many divers, with many types of water-sports for bathers.

Idyllic beaches, warm turquoise waters and a balmy tropical climate are what make this beautiful island a true paradise. Mauritius’s climate is dictated by southeast trade winds; from May to November there’s a warm, dry winter and from November to May it turns into a hot, wet summer.

And whatever you do, don’t lose focus of what’s truly important... the honeymoon!

Lena Kozak-Fret well

Seychelles… The Royal Couple is spending their honey moon here. Need we say more?

The otherworldly archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean. Seychelles is a living museum of natural history and a sanctuary for some of the rarest species of flora & fauna on earth. Nowhere else on earth will you find unique endemic specimens such as the fabulous Coco-de-mer, the largest seed in the world, the jellyfish tree, with only eight surviving examples, the Seychelles’ paradise flycatcher 4 AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE • JUNE 2011

APRIL 2011 • AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE 5

MOMENTS Photography : Godfather 0421935974

Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA) launched a new 16 min DVD, which will deliver vital fire safety messages in 12 languages for recently arrived migrants to Australia.

The languages of Kiswahili, Nuer, Amharic, Sudanese Arabic, Kirundi, English Creole, Arabic, Dari, Vietnamese, Mandarin and Burma’s Karen and Chin had been selected in consultation with the Settlement Grants Program.

The African Dream Benefit held a fundraising event on the 29th of April “Journey Into Africa”. Guests were taken on a culinary journey through Africa, and indulged in 10 dishes of delectable “African Fusion” cuisine at Pink Zulu. Guests had a specially created menu and tasted dishes from South Africa, Nigeria, Morocco, Tanzania and Zimbabwe.

The evening also included an array of cultural entertainment, which included African drumming and traditional Moroccan belly dancing by Soreya “World Dance Fusion”.

The African Dream Benefit held this special night, a charity organisation aimed at providing quality education for children and youth in Africa. The evening raised funds for scholarships and educational projects for vulnerable children and children living in poverty in Zimbabwe. For more information of this great cause visit www. theafricandream.org.au

Sierra Leone independence day party took place on the 29th of April 2011, organized by the Women within the Sierra Leonian community in Perth.

Celebrating Sierra Leone’s 50th Independence Anniversary.

Guest speaker, Tenneh Kpaka, a community leader in NSW. About 250 guests attended.

6 AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE • JUNE 2011

JUNE 2011 • AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE 7

Afriqan & Distinguished

David Hamilton:

Tanzanian born believer who ended up living his dream.

By L. Kozak-Fretwell

Getting used to Australian culture was only one of the emotional challenges David Hamilton encountered upon his arrival to WA over 40 years ago. Today, Account Director and Relationship Manager at a national advertising agency Adcorp, David says that his hard work and persistency were worthwhile.

A

frica takes a special place in his heart as his homeland and source of a lot of good memories. This is why David goes back to Africa every chance he gets and climbing Mount Kilimanjaro was a highlight of one of those trips.

Succeeding in a very competitive industry, such as advertising, in a foreign country is a true testimonial to one’s ability to adapt, to never lose focus of the final goal and never giving up. In his interview to Afriqan Times, David Hamilton shares his journey to success.

and also in Kenya for my secondary schooling.

AQT: Where were you born and when did you arrive to Australia?

I arrived in Fremantle on June 10, 1968 as a ’10 Pound Pom’ having been convinced that Australia would give this 19 year old a better opportunity of success than the UK seemed to have at that time.

Even back then, when Perth was a fraction of its current size and life was a whole lot easier and slower, it wasn’t easy for a boy from Africa to assimilate into the culture and ways of Australia. I’d been brought up on a farm and was by and large protected from the temptations that modern Australia had on offer for teenagers. I had trouble understanding the Aussie accent and sense of humour and their customs such as being invited to a barbeque then having to take your own meat and beer!

But I should go back a bit because I was born in Arusha, Tanzania at the Arusha Cottage Hospital. My folks were farmers at that time and for many years after that I went to different schools around the territory (Tanganyika Territory)

8 AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE • JUNE 2011

Deciding to come and live in Australia in the late 60’s was one of the smarter decisions of my young life up until that moment, in fact I didn’t realise how smart it was for several years after arriving so I’m sure a much greater influence was involved than just me!

AQT: Describe your first impressions of Australia and how it made you feel. Did you feel you belonged here?

Young Australians seemed to have a whole lot more

Image: David Hamilton in his office

Image: in front of the house at Chui Estate, Kenya, circa 1966

Image: David during climb of Mt Kilimanjaro, Tanzania circa 2005

freedom than I had ever been used to and were not as observant of authority, which was a bit of a shock for my young mind. But, even although my heart was firmly embedded in Africa, slowly but steadily I came to understand the Aussie character and even began to appreciate the humour.

AQT: Has the situation improved for you since then?

Over the next 40 + years I have become part of the Australian ‘way of life’ and am always so thankful that I made my home here and am able to enjoy the lifestyle that all Australians hold so dear. I still travel back to Africa and feel the effect it has on my soul and rejoice in the wonderful early life I had in the country of my birth, but then I know I have to come ‘home’ to Perth again and be reunited with my adopted land.

AQT: What do you miss the most about Africa?

I definitely miss the ‘sounds’ of Africa, by that I mean the insects in the heat of the day, the crickets at night, the eerie laughing of the hyena and the short cough of the leopard as it goes about its business late into the night. I miss the smell of the tropical rain as it pours down the dirt roads creating its own rivers and the laughing and joking of the villagers as they weed their crops or oversee their goats and cattle. I miss the verdant green of the rainy season and the straw dryness of the dry season and the absolute delight of little children as they play with their home made toys. These were often fabricated out of tin or wire and they ingeniously made go-carts and scooters from little bits and pieces found by the side of the road. I miss the whole majesty of the country and the seasons, the heart beat of Africa.

Image: My beautiful ayah Charlotte, with me, that’s the fat ugly one in the pram!

Kenya, circa 1950.

Image: David at Magunga Estate long after it had fallen into disuse, Tanzania circa 1998.

AQT: What was your most memorable day in Asutralia?

The day I became an Australian Citizen….I was living in Bundaberg and my friends arranged a big party afterwards….but the ceremony, conducted by the mayor, was poignant and emotional, I was entrusting my soul to my adopted country and promised to serve and respect its laws. It was a new chapter in a young man’s life and one that I have never regretted. Once I became a citizen of Australia, I really felt I ‘belonged’ and all my old doubts vanished.

“For all Africans coming to Australia, please keep your faith in yourselves, never give up on your dreams to better your lives and you will achieve your goals.”

AQT: Based on your experience what would be the best piece of advice you can give to the African Australians who came here to make their dreams come true?

For all Africans coming to Australia, please keep your faith in yourselves, never give up on your dreams to better your lives and you will achieve your goals. Australia is a wonderful country, the people are not just friendly and accepting, but if you show them you are a hard worker and want to succeed they will for the most part do whatever they can to help you. It’s part of the national character and we are so lucky to be part of it.

Treat every day as a fresh opportunity, free from civil war, political corruption and lawlessness….go for it!

JUNE 2011 • AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE 9

Around Africa June Events & Festivals

Fes Festival of World Sacred Music Saint-Louis Jazz Festival, Senegal The Saint Louis Jazz Festival is held annually in the colorful town of Saint Louis in Senegal. Jazz legends from all over the world come together to play in various venues throughout the town. Past musicians who took part in the festival include Herbie Hancock, Randy Weston, and Joe Zainul. The festival is also an excellent platform for new jazz groups to perform in front of an international audience. At least 30 new groups perform each year. If you’re interested in a tour that includes the festival.

Where: Saint-Louis When: June 9 - 12 (2011)

The Royal Show An agricultural event that has been held for 150 years, the Royal Show is one of South Africa’s biggest annual events. Not only do you get to see over 1400 examples of Southern Africa’s best livestock but there are also traditional dances, music concerts and a motor bike extravaganza.

Where: Pietermaritzburg When: 27 May - 5 June (2011)

Zanzibar International Film Festival This festival is East Africa’s premier cultural event and it takes place annually on the historic island of Zanzibar. You can enjoy music, arts, literature, film and more, from all over Africa and countries bordering the Indian ocean. Dhow races take place throughout the festival. An excellent tour is available through Zanzibar Festival Tours based out of London.

They’re offering a 10 night package, front row seats to all the events, and first rate accommodation.

Where: Zanzibar, Tanzania When: June 18 - June 26 (2011)

This wonderful spiritual festival, held annually in Fes, allows you to bump into whirling dervishes from Iran as well as mystics, chanters and dancers from all around the world. A festival celebrating the local culture of Fes is held concurrently. Both festivals allow visitors a wonderful insight into traditional life in the old walled city. Sip some mint tea, enjoy sufi chanting and of course all that delicious Moroccan food.

Where: Fes, Morocco Where: 3 - 12 June (2011)

Essaouira Gnawa and World Music Festival A music festival based on the traditions of Gnawa music has grown to include musicians from all over the world. This successful annual festival has been around for a decade and venues are dotted all around the picturesque town of Essaouira. Here’s a tour if you would like to join in the fun as a group. Gnawa music is a combination of acrobatic dancing as well as music. Its origins lie in a unique mixture of Berber, African and Arabic songs, religious rites and dance.

Where: Essaouira, Morocco When: June 23 - 26 (2011)

APRIL 2011 • AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE 11

My Africa: MOZAMBIQUE

Island of Mozambique

Mozambique The fortified city of Mozambique is located on this island, a former Portuguese trading-post on the route to India. Its remarkable architectural unity is due to the consistent use, since the 16th century, of the same building techniques, building materials (stone or macuti) and decorative principles.

Inhabited by a Bantu tribe, the island was a major Arab port and boat building centre long before Vasco da Gama visited in 1498. During 16th century the island also became an important missionary centre and is now a World Heritage Site.

12 AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE • JUNE 2011

Photos: courtesy of www.mozambiquetourism.co.za

Country: Republic of Mozambique Capital: Maputo Region: Horn of Africa Population: 22, 894, 000 est. 2009 Currency: Mozambique metical (MZN or MTn), 1MZN = AU$

0.031 Economy: cotton, food (cashew nuts, sugarcane, tea, cassava,

corn, coconuts, sisal, citrus and tropical fruits, potatoes,

sunflowers), beverages, chemicals (fertilizer, soap,

paints), aluminum, petroleum products, textiles,

cement, glass, asbestos, tobacco.

Official Language: Portuguese Calling Code: +258 Tourist Attractions: Gorongosa National Park, Zambezi River, Craft Markets

at Maputo, Mozambique Island (UNSECO World Heritage Site) Independence Day: 25 June 1975

Mozambique

JUNE 2011 • AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE 13

Genevieve Nnaji:

Nollywood’s Diamond

“Chocolates and cakes. That’s the biggest problem I have. That is why I punish myself at the gym because I know I can’t stop myself from eating what I want. I call it eating your cake and having it.”

Applause Compared to Halle Berry and Julia Roberts, Genevieve Nnaji will win times and times again. No matter how determined the other two were to succeed in Hollywood, Genevieve was twice as determined to gain recognition in Nollywood and in 2005 she won the Best Actress in a Leading Role at the inaugural African Movie Academy Award (AMAA).

Genevieve, who just celebrated her 32nd birthday, was born in Mbaise, Imo State in Nigeria. The fourth of eight children she was brought up in a middle class environment. Her father worked as an engineer and her mother as a teacher. She attended the Methodist Girls College Yaba before heading onto the University of Lagos.

While at the university Genevieve began auditioning for acting jobs amongst the many Nollywood projects. She started her acting career as a child actress in the then popular television soap opera, Ripples at the age of eight. She also featured in several commercials some of which include Pronto beverage and Omo detergent.

In 1998 at the age of 19 she was introduced into the growing Nigerian film industry with the movie Most Wanted As an upcoming actress (ten years later she will be named Nollywood’s sexiest actress). Trying to create a niche for herself, she went through various minor roles seeking for that opportunity for a break through. And the opportunity presented itself.

Her subsequent movies Last Party Mark of the Beast and Ijele (still considered to be one of her best epic performance to date) brought forth an icon to be loved and adored by many.

Her name became a household name, her image the desire of every young girl. In 2002 she featured in the movie Sharon Stone and her fame shot beyond the shores of Nigeria to Africa and several European countries. One may say that Genevieve reinvented the Nigerian Film Industry, introducing Nollywood to Africa outside if Nigeria and the rest of the world.

Genevieve appeals just as warmly to Kenyans and Liberians and South Africans and Ghanaians who avidly watch Nigerian home videos

at home and abroad. Genevieve has led the market into new territories today.

She took the extra step of projecting herself beyond Nigeria by having a website constructed back in 2003 and it was arguably the most trafficked Nigerian site on the Internet. Its fame spread like wildfire, a jolly virus.

The thoughts expressed in the pages are often sporadic, but true in their spontaneity, sincere in their intentions. Love is the word used most on the site. Many would leave their phone numbers, email addresses, in hope of a reply.

In recognition of her immense contribution to the Nigerian film industry, Genevieve has been presented with numerous awards some of which have been in Dublin, London and the United States. She won best actress of the year in the 2001 City People Awards and in 2005 at the maiden outing of the prestigious African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA).

In 2004 a search for the face of Lux was embarked upon and out of several celebrities all over Africa.

Genevieve emerged with the highest votes. She graced several billboards and television stations with her enduring smile and personality.

In 2004, she was contracted by a Ghanaian record label to produce an album which got immense attention locally and in several African countries.

With several movies to her credit, and numerous fans around the world, in 2008, in a bid to give back to society, Genevieve launched her clothing line “St. Genevieve” which donates a percentage of its proceeds to charity.

Genevieve is quoted to be the highest paid and most desired actress in Nollywood today.

Her life personifies the saying “All things are possible if you will only believe.” These words describe her: Determined, Focused, Humble and Creative. The best years of her career are still ahead.

Genevieve Nnaji, we applaud you!

APRIL 2011 • AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE 15

The African Mystery behind Will And Kate By: Emmanuel Solomon

The royal wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton was watched by viewers all over the world. In the UK, fans

travelled from all over the country just so they could be near the couple, even though the actual ceremony was well protected from the public. The rest of the world focused on Kate’s dress, the beautiful cars, the brevity of the kiss, and the miserable little bridesmaid who stole the show. But how will the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge affect Africa?

In an interview, William referred to some wisdom he received from his mother. The late Princess Diana explained to

her son that he must marry for love, not duty. William said that he and Kate started out as friends before they began to date, and that it formed the basis of their relationship and marriage. In many parts of Africa, marriage is not a personal matter. It is a duty to the family and the community. Young people marry to extend the family line and please their parents. Arranged marriages are still common.

Even in cases where your bride or groom is not explicitly chosen for you, they must be approved by your parents and

siblings. Many romantic relationships break because the family considers them inappropriate. Young Africans with modern perspectives are increasingly ignoring their family’s wishes when it comes to choosing a life partner. A union between Will and Kate may have given them some much needed support in their decisions regarding who they should marry. They are also likely to take William’s advice to heart and start looking for potential spouses among their friends.

Before her wedding, Kate Middleton had no blue blood. In the past, royals could only marry fellow royals. A prince

or princess might become engaged to someone from a different royal family, even if a potential spouse had a different nationality. William broke the class divide when he married Kate. She lived the dreams of many little girls - she married a prince and became a princess. There are only two monarchies in Africa – Swaziland and Lesotho. So while African girls may not find many princes to marry, they now have a socially acceptable example to marry outside their class.

Kate Middleton was 29 years old when she got married. She graduated from university with a degree in history. Afri-

can women may use her as an example and a defence. They can now say that it’s okay to finish school before settling down into wedded bliss. After all, it was fine for British royalty. Kate also has several part time jobs in addition to her official duties as the Duchess of Cambridge, and this gives validation to African brides who choose to be on the workforce. Still related to age, William is a year younger than Kate, and that’s likely to make the matter slightly less of a taboo, at least in principle.

On an economic level, William and Kate boosted tourism in at least two African countries. They got engaged in

Kenya and had their honeymoon in The Seychelles. Both countries are bound to benefit from increased visibility and tourist bookings thanks to the royal couple.

APRIL 2011 • AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE 17

4456

18 AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE • APRIL 2011

By Rumbidzai Chekeche

4456 African Times Wedding Ad_Layout 1 23/05/11 4:00 PM Page 1

e u q i n u t s o m s ’ h pert

e u n e v g n i d d e w

Perth Zoo is undoubtedly one of Western Australia’s most extraordinary venues.

The perfect setting for those looking for something extra special.

We offer you a choice of stunning locations and function rooms for your wedding ceremony, photographs or reception.

For more information contact weddings@perthzoo.wa.gov.au or call (08) 9474 0444

Photography by Merge Photography.

MAY 2011 • AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE 19

20 AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE • MAY 2011

name: Noria meaning of name: Belief/ Doctrine country of origin: Zimbabwe ethnicity: African state of residence: Western Australia profession: Student/Customer Service 3 words to describe Africa: Beautlful, Breathtaking, Majestic 3 words to describe Australia: Beautiful, Nice climate, Friendly people Your ideal honeymoon destination: Maui, Hawaii Submit Your “I am Afro-Aussie” profile picture at info@afriqantimes.com to be featured.

APRIL 2011 • AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE 21

Do It African Way, Keep Traditions Alive

By Tendai Kambikambi Africa is home to wide diversity of religions and cultures and this colourful diversity is reflected in its varied and colourful wedding traditions. An African wedding is, more than anything, the bringing together of two people as a single family, or the combining of two families or even the mixture of two tribes into one family unit.

Although African wedding ceremonies are dissimilar due to different beliefs and customs the idea of a ‘family union’ is translated throughout all African weddings. Bright festive colours, song, dance, and music are also common element in many African wedding ceremonies.

SUDAN

In the Sudan wedding ceremonies can last up to seven days. A bridegroom ceremony is a common wedding practice which begins with the welcoming of the groom to the wedding site with a propitious decoration called the umbul-umbul, a type of ‘wedding announcement’.

Several rituals are performed in Sudanese wedding ceremonies which all have symbolic meanings.

One such ritual is ‘sungekem’ where the bride and groom kiss the knees of their parents asking for forgiveness, blessing and promising to continue to serve their parents. Another significant ritual is egg breaking called ‘nincak endog’ which ends with the announcement of the groom as the man of the house. It is conducted by the Sudanese equivalent of a ‘maid of honour’, who remains an advisor throughout the marriage.

Following the wedding ceremony, dancers shower the bride and groom with wedding flowers to insure a fragrant future for the couple. A mixture of turmeric rice, coins and candy is thrown at the couple.

Maasai Bride

KENYA

Traditions in Kenya differ from one ethnic group to another and this is because all these groups have their own customs regarding marriage.

With the Massai tribe of Kenya women are given to a man they hardly know. At the marriage ceremony the father of the bride spits on the brides head and breasts as a blessing and then she leaves with her husband walking to her new home she never looks back fearing that she will turn to stone. This can be a very sad experience for the bride, who may be as young as 13-16 years old and may walk a long way to get to her new house.

Great importance in Samburu tribe weddings is given to the preparation of gifts by the bridegroom (two goatskins, two copper earrings, a container for milk, a sheep) and of gifts for the ceremony. The marriage is concluded when a bull enters a hut guarded by the bride’s mother, and is killed.

It is a common tradition for the bridegroom to pay the bride price before the wedding ceremony although this is not strictly the case nowadays.

Moroccan Bride

MOROCCO

Similar to Sudanese wedding ceremonies, Moroccan wedding ceremonies last from four to seven days. Usually the entire affair is quite expensive. It starts with the paying of a bride price (dowry) that is spent on household items and furniture for the bride. The bride also receives golden jewellery and is sent presents of cloth, clothing and perfume from her groom every feast day.

It is a Moroccan wedding custom for the bride to have a ceremonial purification milk bath before a ritual henna painting (Beberiska) of her hands and feet. Modern Moroccan brides continue this tradition by anointing the palm of guests with a unique smear, called the henna. The bride also wears an elaborate headpiece with a veil.

Once the couple’s wedding vows have been exchanged, and before the newlywed Moroccan bride becomes the mistress of her new home, she walks around the outside of her house three times.

Moroccan wedding ceremonies have somewhat changed over time. One of the most significant changes is that young people have begun to choose their own marriage partners and ask for their parent’s blessing on the arrangement. In the past, a marriage partner was always chosen for them.

ZIMBABWE

In Zimbabwe the paying of the bride price known as ‘lobola’ or ‘roora’ is the most significant part of the wedding, which cannot proceed if the bride price is not paid. Modern Zimbabwean wedding ceremonies are very similar to English weddings, though there is certain protocol to be followed.

A bride introduces groom to her aunt (usually, on her father’s side), who in turn introduces him to the rest of the family and announces their intentions. Groom does the same with the help of his uncle.

At ‘lobola’ ceremony the bride’s family decides how much ‘dowry’ they want and whether it will be in form of money, cows, clothes or all of the above. At the same ceremony, a groom can ask future father-in-law for permission to have a ‘white wedding’.

There are more than 1,000 cultures in Africa, each with its own wedding traditions. Even though many tribes have drifted away from traditional rituals and have become modernized, they still sustain certain vital rituals. Evidently marriage is sacred in Africa, no matter which region or which culture you come from, and no matter what your religious beliefs are.

Sudanese Bride

s n e

e a n s s

s e

d g s e

APRIL 2011 • AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE 23

Afrillionaires

A BILLIONAIRE NEXT DOOR

By Emmanuel Solomon

Patrick Soon-Shiong, MD, Chairman & CEO of Abraxis Health

Patrick Shoo-Shiong is a true testament to Africa’s rainbow nation.

The 58 year old South African was born to Chinese immigrants, raised in the heart of Africa, and made his own billions – five of them, to be exact. He made his fortune out of generic drugs, allowing many patients to receive affordable medicine that probably saved their lives.

Patrick doesn’t look much like a billionare. He could easily pass for the guy next door. But the man with an infectious smile is a medical doctor and acclaimed surgeon. His mild, bespectacled appearance belies a shrewd business mind.

Making a Difference in the World: The 40th Anniversary Presentation of The Vision Awards™ in Beverly Hills Will.i.am, Quinton Aaron, Vision Awards Founder Helen Harris, Patrick Soon-Shiong, Jolene & George Schlatter, Sherry Lansing, Lily Tomlin

Patrick Soon-Shiong is Executive Chairman and CEO of Abraxis Health which is forging a new paradigm for the delivery of healthcare, requiring a novel global infrastructure, integrating bioinformatics, discovery, molecular medicine and clinical development.

24 AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE • APRIL 2011

Patrick’s father was a village doctor in China. He moved the family to South Africa during World War II. Patrick followed in his father’s footsteps.

He did well in school, finishing high school at age 16 and graduating from the University of Witwatersrand at 23. He was rated 4th in a class of 189 students. Patrick interned at Johannesburg General Hospital, then pursued a Master of Science at the University of British Columbia. He showed an interest in research and received several awards during his residency. Next, he attended surgical training in University of California, Los Angleles better known as U CLA.

The next step in Patrick’s career was a teaching post at UCLA, which he held from 1983 to 1991. He left to pursue his love of research, starting VivoRx, a firm that focused n diabetes. He later founded, Abraxis BioScience, The company produces Abraxane 2005 as part of a treatment programme for breast cancer. The drug is thought to be more potent than other cancer drugs, and it has fewer side effects.

In 2007, the company was split to make it run more effectively.

American Pharmaceutical Partners (APP) focuses on hospital products while Abraxis Science is the research and development wing. It’s responsible for developing new, effective, low cost drugs.

Sometime last year, he sold the APP wing and invested in the Los Angeles Lakers, taking his fortune in a different direction. He still runs Abraxis Health, which researches on disease biomarkers. He sits on many medical boards and in 2009, he was a visiting professor at UCLA. Patrick proves that it’s possible to blend philanthropy with good business. He landed in the business world through his love of medical research, and shows us that it really is possible to make a fortune doing what you love.

MAY 2011 • AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE 25

Focus

Eyes On Painted Dog Next time you are at your local Zoo, pay close attention to Painted Dogs. Make sure your kids do too as your local Zoo may soon become the only place your offspring will be able to see this critically endangered species. This is why we salute to people from Painted Dog Conservation Inc that was established 8 years ago in Australia to provide support for projects in Zambia, Zimbabwe and Namibia.

The African Painted Dog (Lycaon pictus) is one of Africa’s most misunderstood predators. These evolutionarily distinct canids separated from other dog species more than 10 million years ago and were once widespread across subSaharan Africa in 39 countries. Africa remains the only continent where these beautiful creatures can be found in the wild.

Painted Dogs have a very interesting social structure.

Females will disperse from their birth pack at 14–30 months of age and join other packs that lack sexually mature females. Males typically do not leave the pack in which they were born. This is unusual for social mammals, among which the core pack tends to consist of related females.

Painted Dog Conservation Inc Chairman John Lemon has spent the last 22 years working in Australasian Zoos with Painted Dogs. His acquired knowledge of the husbandry, management and exhibit design of this species has been applied in-situ, across three African countries.

John says his most memorable moment in those years was “removing two wire snares from the neck of a very emaciated dog, rehabilitating it back to health over four months and then releasing it back into its pack and watching the excitement of the reunion and then head off to hunt with them“.

So, why should we get involved? What is so special about African Painted Dog? “They are the most persecuted canid in the world and have been extirpated from 25 of the 39 countries they once existed. Their decline represents a 99% decline in numbers seen only 100 years ago”, John shares his personal motivation, “they are the most social carnivore in the world caring for their sick, the weak and the injured and they also allow the pups, the future of the pack, to eat first.”

Current Patrons of Painted Dog Conservation Inc, Bradley Trevor Greive, New York Times Best Selling Author and another of Australia’s leading authors, Tony Park are now joined by the full endorsement of Sir Richard Branson.

Painted Dog From a population of more than 300,000 in 39 countries only a century ago, the African Painted Dog now numbers only around 2,500-3,000 in the wild in only 14 countries and is now internationally classified as an endangered species.

Lycaon Pictus is also known as African Wild Dog, African Hunting Dog, Cape Hunting Dog, Painted Dog, Painted Wolf, Painted Hunting Dog, Spotted Dog, or Ornate Wolf.

They are primarily found in eastern and southern Africa, mostly in the two remaining large populations associated with the Selous Game Reserve in Tanzania and the population centered in northern Botswana and eastern Namibia.

African Painted Dogs are killed by farmers who perceive them as a threat to livestock. They use very large territories (and so can persist only in large wildlife protected areas). They are killed on roads, caught in traps and snares and die from introduced domestic dog diseases.

26 AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE • MAY 2011

“I am proud to endorse the activities of Painted Dog Conservation Incorporated, and encourage you to support their cause to prevent the extinction of this unique species”

To find out how you can assist the survival of the Painted Dog, please visit www.painteddogconservation.iinet.net.au

g

TOP: John Lemon taking samples for research from a Painted Dog in Namibia TOP-Right: Releasing dogs onto Starvation Island, Lake Kariba Right: John Lemon Antipoaching in Zimbabwe

APRIL 2011 • AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE 27

name: Sarah Filippi meaning of name: Princess country of origin: South Africa ethnicity: African/Australian state of residence: WA profession: Actress 3 words to describe Africa: Vast, Awesome, Beautiful 3 words to describe Australia: Friendly, Striking, Peaceful Your ideal honeymoon destination: Dunk Island Submit Your “I am Afro-Aussie” profile picture at info@afriqantimes.com to be featured.

28 AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE • APRIL 2011

AQT wouldl ike to apologise for misprint of the profile for this Afro-Aussie in April 2011

Fundraising for a good cause is always fun!

Black Trifecta at the Men In Black Ball 2011 Heath Black, former Fremantle Docker and St Kilda player, will be a testimonial guest speaker for the annual Men in Black Ball 2011 and will launch few chapters from his new book simply named “Black”. The book reveals startling details about his personal life that have previously been hidden from the media, family and friends. With his “tell it like it is attitude” Black will tell his story about overcoming a dependency on alcohol and beating depression.

“I finally understand that I will never be cured of my mental illness but I have learnt how to live with my condition without using it as an excuse for bad decisions. I believe that others will relate to my story and perhaps take comfort that it can get easier with the right support network and medication” - Heath Black

Chris Gibson, brother of a movie star Mel Gibson, author, inspirational speaker, former candidate for the NSW Upper House and campaigner for changing your life for the better will be talking about his book and his fight and victory over obesity, alcohol and depression.

Rick Collingwood, the man sought by the stars, a leading world clinical hypnotherapist will be offering an insight into how celebrities including Mel Gibson, conquer addictions, anxiety, pain and depression.

The Most Inspiring Man of the Year 2011 is a highlight of the night that acknowledges the remarkable achievements of a nominated individual. Criteria for the Most Inspiring Man of the Year Award Include: one who has excelled in their chosen field of work either professional or private, who

is an inspiration others, is able to motivate and touch the lives of others... One who continues to persevere despite setbacks and hardships.

Barbara McNaught turned her attention to fund raising while living in South Africa, taking on the challenge of raising one million rand in one year for the South African National School of the Arts. Her achievement resulted in the school’s refurbishment.

After moving to Australia Barbara founded Momentum Women’s Forum to create signature networking events in WA www.momentumwf.com.au

Momentum Forum founder, Barbara McNaught, says that sadly, depression

is prevalent throughout the community and awareness must continue to be raised.

“Men don’t talk; boys don’t cry.

We are continuing the work to remove the stigma from the topic. I believe that since the inception of the Men in Black Ball in 2008 more men know that they are not alone and are more open about the topic,” says Barbara.

The Men in Black Ball will be held during International Men’s Health Week on Saturday June 18, 2011 at The Hyatt Regency Hotel Perth, WA (for tickets and more information visit www. momentumwf.com.au)

Funds raised at the Men In Black last year were donated to support Beyond Blue programs that aim to increase the capacity of the broader Australian community to prevent depression and respond effectively.

A fundraiser this year for the Men’s Advisor Network (MAN), the Ball is always high on the WA social calendar, along with the other fundraising events organised by Momentum Forum such as International Women’s Day and Melbourne Cup Luncheons and Pink Ribbon Ball.

The aim of MAN is to raise awareness of issues impacting on males of all ages and to advocate on their behalf in order to promote their health and well-being in a holistic sense covering physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual components. This is based on the World Health Organisation’s 1986 definition of health and encompasses all aspects of a person’s life.

This will be Momentum Forum Events fourth annual Men in Black Ball .

JUNE 2011 • AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE 29

ART The Princess and the Frog: Carrying the Conversation

By Sunshine Kamaloni

Emma McRae, curator at ACMI and coordinating curator for the exhibition

said Lasseter decided to focus on fairy tales which emphasise dreams coming true as a way of giving hope to the people of post- Katrina New Orleans.

This is why the Princess and the Frog occupied a distinct place in the exhibi-

tion. It encapsulated Disney’s gift in a special way. Not only is the movie set in the very city of New Orleans but it also breaks the colour barrier for Disney Princesses.

The whole world was captivated when Prince William married Kate Middle-

For those who have not seen the movie, Tiana is Disney’s first black prin-

ton in a fairy-tale wedding. Well, maybe not the whole world but definitely all those coun-

cess. This in itself is a milestone worth celebrating.

tries and people who over the past centuries have been connected to the British Monar-

chy. Africa was no exception.

on almost every front when it comes to being secure in their own beauty and identity. And

so to have a princess who is confident, smart, hardworking, beautiful and black is defi-

From Kenya to South Africa, the royal wedding was enjoyed and celebrated.

African women, especially those in the Diaspora face enormous pressure

On that day, Kate Middleton, a commoner, became a princess.

nitely a step in the right direction especially for the new generation of young African girls.

Ms McRae identified the changes that Disney has actively made to its princesses.

The whole event made me think of fairy-tales and princesses. It brought to

mind great African princesses like Yennenga of Burkina Faso and Nandi, the mother of

King Shaka Zulu. Despite these women’s legendary lives, how often are they remem-

Beauty and the Beast. All the princesses before that are really passive. And so then Belle

bered and celebrated?

in Beauty and the Beast and Tiana are a bit more spunky and independent. I think Disney

tried very hard to make this film more contemporary,” Ms McRae said.

The media is one of those vehicles we can use to educate that there is much

“There are so many differences in this film. I mean it sort of changed after

more to being a princess than having white skin or long silky hair as stereotype suggests.

not as a black princess but as a frog. As a result, audiences do not get that opportunity to

Walt Disney became the first movie company to break this fairy-tale stereo-

It is a pity though that Princess Tiana spends a significant part of the movie

type in The Princess and the Frog. As a prominent media company, Walt Disney Studio

fully relate, identify and engage with her as a black princess…and as a black woman.

prides itself as the king of fairy-tale animations, entertaining us with stories like Snow

White and the Seven Dwarfs, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, The Little Mermaid, Beauty

black African girls often end up having is closely tied to the shamed identity that media

and the Beast. The Princess and the Frog seems to have had greater effect on people

and society stereotypically give to black women. But, unfortunately, Disney did not get

than just plain entertainment – it inspired an art exhibition and made more people believe

this part right. Tiana’s black femininity is hidden in the frog she is cursed to be for most

in fairy-tales.

part of the film.

These unforgettable classics recently showcased in the “Dreams come true

That said we still need to take what we have been given, improve on it and run with it. We

– the art of Disney’s classic fairytales” exhibition at the Federation Square in Melbourne,

have waited generations for a black princess and now that we have one, we have to

which ran this autumn thanks to the effort of the Australian Centre for the Moving Image

somehow make it work to our advantage.

(ACMI).

And hopefully, sooner than later, we will get the chance to showcase our Nandis and

The exhibition had a very interesting and touching genesis – it was con-

It was crucial for Disney to get this right because the low self-esteem that

Yennengas. We will get the chance to show the equal worth of the African princess.

ceived by chief creative officer of Disney/Pixar Animation Studios John Lasseter as a

The Princess and the Frog puts the issues of African and black women’s independence,

cultural gift to the people of New Orleans whose normal lives had been severely disrupted

individuality, desirability and beauty out into the public sphere…and this is a conversation

and racial wounds exacerbated by Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

we need to continue.

The Princess and the Frog section of the Dreams Come True Exhibition

30 AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE • JUNE 2011

Tiana holding Prince Naveen as the frog from “The Princess and the Frog”

M

MOVIE REVIEWS Of Gods and Men (Sony Picture Classics Release)

Armada Films and Why Not Producion In Cinemas: now

This movie is based on a true story of seven French Christian monks living in Algeria who in 1996 were caught up in the civil unrest between the Algerian government and extremist groups hoping to overthrow it. The film is more interested in capturing the spirit of the events and what was at stake in the community than in recounting the exact details of a historic reality.

Living in harmony with their Muslim brothers in a monastery perched in the picturesque mountains near Tibhirine, the monks are alarmed when a crew of foreign workers disappears following the arrival of an Islamic fundamentalist group. The decision to stay or leave their home must be made as a group. Despite the growing menace in their midst, they slowly realise that they may have no choice but to stay. But for them, either choice is laden with consequences.

This touching film focuses upon the monk’s rhythm of life, their deep ties to the villagers and the spirit of peace and charity with which they try to counter the violence they see eating away at the country they’ve come to love.

Besides Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake during the monks’ last supper, Of Gods and Men rests solely on the music of hymns and psalms.

The picture, filmed in Azrou, Morocco, travelled the world collecting prizes such as Best Foreign Language Film (National Board of Review), Grand Prize (Cannes Film Festival) and FIPRESCI Award for Best Foreign Language Film of the Year (2011 Palm Springs International Film Festival).

MOVIE Director: Xavier Beauvois

Oranges and Sunshine (See Saw Films and Sixteen Films) In Cinemas: 9 June

Hugo Weaving, Nigerian born actor, best known for Matrix and Lord of the Rings, stars in this Australian picture (alongside Emily Watson) as Jack, who sketches a heartbreaking performance in little more than half a dozen scenes where the void of a mother figure seems to have paralysed his search for his own identity and his chances for a normal, regular life Oranges and Sunshine, filmed in Adelaide (South Australia) and England, tells the story of Margaret Humphreys (Emily Watson), a social worker from Nottingham, who uncovered one of the most significant social scandals in recent times: the forced migration of children from the United Kingdom. Almost singlehandedly, against overwhelming odds and with little regard for her own well-being, Margaret reunited thousands of families, brought authorities to account and worldwide attention to an extraordinary miscarriage of justice. She discovered a secret that the British government had kept hidden for years: one hundred and thirty thousand children in care had been sent abroad to commonwealth countries, mainly Australia. Children as young as four had been told that their parents were dead, and been sent to children’s homes on the other side of the world. Many were subjected to appalling abuse. They were promised oranges and sunshine, they got hard labour and life in institutions.

Co-starring David Wenham and Tara Morice, this is the feature debut of Jim Loach (Ken’s son), which will be released in Australia on June 9, followed by a US release by the Cohen Media Group later in the year.

This is a movie every Australian should watch.

JUNE 2011 • AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE 31

OBSESSIONS Apple iMac with Thunderbolt Bell & Ross BR02 Watches

If you’re not too hung up on the company’s iconic rounded square designs, you’ll find these Bell & Ross BR02 Watches to be equally capable and stylish timepieces. Available in steel or black “phantom” finishes, they sport 44mm steel cases, carbon fiber or black Clou de Paris dials, white or black indexes, figures, and hands, hours, minutes, seconds, and date functionality, self-winding movements, and sporty rubber straps.

Samsung Chromebook

Been patiently waiting for the arrival of Google’s all-web, all-the-time Chrome OS on a consumer machine? Your wait is nearly over. The Samsung Chromebook ($430-$500) is powered by Chrome OS, which offers a store chock full of web apps, boot times of eight seconds, instant resume, cloud-based storage, automatic updates, Wi-Fi, and optional 3G with 100MB of monthly data free of charge from Verizon. It’s like a netbook, without the hassle of a real OS.

Think desktops are dead? Think again. The new Apple iMac with Thunderbolt ($1,200-$2,000) brings quad-core Sandy Bridge Core i5 and i7 processors to the lineup, along with Apple and Intel’s crazy-fast Thunderbolt port - two of ‘em on the 27inch model - FaceTime HD video chat cameras, updated ATI graphics, available SSD boot drives, and your choice between a Magic Mouse or Magic Trackpad. It’s a perfect companion

Bosch IXO Vino

If Tim “The Tool Man” Taylor was moonlighting as a sommelier, there’s no doubt he would have come up with something like the Bosch IXO Vino (£40; roughly $65). Combining a cordless screwdriver with a corkscrew adapter, the IXO Vino can open bottles of wine as easily as it puts together IKEA furniture, and has an integrated LED light so you don’t miss the bottle when

Segway X2 Golf

Somewhere between walking the course and taking a golf cart lies the Segway X2 Golf ($8,000). This golf-specific Segway allows for even faster rounds than a cart, while offering many of the same features, including a bag carrier, integrated scorecard holder with ball and tee holders, and speciallytreated, turf-friendly tires. With a range of 14 miles or 36 holes, it’s only a matter of time before it replaces your trusty lob wedge as your favourite piece of golfing equipment.

Mercedes AMG Driving Academy 32 AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE • APRIL 2011

Owning a high-end performance auto is one thing, knowing how to drive it is another. At the Mercedes AMG Driving Academy (€370; roughly $530 and up), you can do everything from take a tour of the factory and get acclimated to the car to take racing lessons behind the wheel of the high-powered, race-ready SLS AMG GT3, all under the watchful eye of Mercedes’ instructors. Oh, and we hear the beer in Germany is pretty good, if you’re into that sort of thing.

Just like going to Nairobi for Christmas

by Stephen Kuria Going to Adelaide once a year for the last three years has been like going home to Nairobi for Christmas. Most readers may wonder why, especially those that have never been to the Rugby Seven 7 series held in Adelaide every year.

Adelaide town becomes vibrant, filled with an atmosphere of celebration, togethernes and letting your hair down. As soon as you check in place of accommodation you start getting calls, text messages from your Kenyan friends from all over Australia.

Kenyan get together for drinks, dinner or bbq held by local Kenyans. There is no time to waste because you only have the weekend to catch up, enjoy each other’s company and support the Kenyan team.

You really feel the Kenyan presence, spirit and you feel so proud that the small country like Kenya is participating competitively in the rugby 7 tournament. One only needs to walk the street of Adelaide and you will see the Kenya flag proudly displayed outside hotels windows.

What makes it more interesting is the fact that out of about 20 rugby nations represented, the Kenyan team has the most loudest, more passionate and supportive crowds, people comes with drums, bell and hat to support the team.

Kenyans are so loud and passionate that, by the second day, non-Kenyans join the Kenyan crowd in the stadium to be part of the fun. The cheering and support does not diminish even if the Kenyan team is losing. This year the Kenyan team came fourth, beaten by the USA in the semi finals New Zealand claimed the first spot over South Africa in the finals.

Kenyan still had the energy to support the South Africa team because they were on a high from seeing Kenya team. This year we had a Kenya TV crew filming the event. We also had the privilege of having the talented Kenyan rapper Jua Kali visit Adelaide for the event.

Adelaide town is generally quiet. However the rugby Seven 7 series attracts people from different nationalities, our fellow Kenyans flock in large numbers and make their presence felt and heard So it no wonder that seeing so many Kenyan happy celebrating and supporting the same cause makes the reminisce and feel like I am in Nairobi for Christmas IMAGES: Alex Ngeno & Pawel Sowa

APRIL 2011 • AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE 33

THIS MONTH IN HISTORY: JUNE June 1: International Children’s Day June 1, 1963: Madaraka Day in Kenya, which commemorates the day that Kenya attained internal self-rule in 1963, preceding full independence from the United Kingdom June 1, 1979: The first black-led government of Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) in 90 years takes power 1 June, 1985: Mário Hipólito, Angolan football goalkeeper was born 1 June, 1985: Tirunesh Dibaba, Ethiopian long distance track athlete and the outdoor 5000 metres world record holder was born. She is the current Olympic 5000 metres and 10,000 metres champion. She has also won four world track titles and five world cross country titles. She is nicknamed the “Baby Faced Destroyer”

June 4, 1971: Joseph Kabila, the president of the Democratic Republic of the Congo was born. He took office in January 2001 at the age of 29, ten days after the murder of his father and DRC president Laurent-Désiré Kabila. On November 27, 2006, Joseph Kabila was confirmed as President following the July 2006 general election June 5: World Environment Day June 5, 1977 - The Apple II, one of the first personal computers, goes on sale June 5, 1783 - The first sustained flight occurred as a hot-air balloon was launched at Annonay, France, by brothers Joseph and Jacques Montgolfier June 5, 1987 - Dr. Mae C. Jemison becomes first Black woman astronaut

June 2: 1989: Freddy Adu, GhanaianAmerican soccer player was born. At the age of 14, he became one of the youngest athletes to sign a professional contract in the United States June 3, 1968: Samantha Sprackling (Saffron), Nigerian singer, the lead singer of the electronica band, Republica June 3, 1982: Dihan Slabbert, South African singer and composer, He is best known as one of the lead vocalists in the South African pop group, Hi-5 June 4, 1899: Hassan Fathy, a noted Egyptian architect who pioneered appropriate technology for building in Egypt, especially by working to reestablish the use of mud brick (or adobe) and traditional as opposed to western building designs and layouts. In rural areas, he trained local inhabitants to make their own materials and build their own buildings 34 AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE • JUNE 2011

June 6: Foundation Day (Western Australia) June 8, since 1992: World Ocean Day is celebrated, coinciding with the Earth Summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil June 8, 1982: Dickson Paul Etuhu is born in Kano, Nigeria. He is a Nigerian footballer who plays for Fulham in the Premier League and plays his international football for the Nigerian national football team

June 10, 1889 - African American actress Hattie McDaniel was born in Wichita, Kansas. She won an Academy Award in 1940 for her role as ‘Mammy’ in Gone with the Wind June 14, 1951 - Univac 1, the world’s first commercial electronic computer was unveiled in Philadelphia. It was installed at the Census Bureau and utilized a magnetic tape unit as a buffer memory June 16: Youth Day in South Africa June 20: World Refugee Day June 21, 1982: Britain’s Prince William (William Arthur Philip Louis) was born in London

June 24, 2010: Labor Party deputy Julia Gillard became Australia’s first female Prime Minister. She was born in Wales and had moved to Australia as a child. She worked as a lawyer before entering politics June 21: June Solstice and World Music Day June 22, 1986 - Argentine footballer Diego Maradona scored both the “Hand of God goal” and the “Goal of the Century” against England during the quarter-final match of the FIFA World Cup in Mexico City June 25: Independence Day in Mozambique (1975) June 26: Independence Day in Madagascar (1960) June 28, 1880 – Police captured Australian bank robber and bushranger Ned Kelly (pictured) after a gun battle in Glenrowan, Victoria June 30: Independence Day in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (1960)

36 AFRIQAN TIMES MAGAZINE • APRIL 2011