Destination Africa 2012

Destination:

Africa

News:

City Profiles -Cape Town! !

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-Water Pollution!! !

Connor Nemetz

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-Pamplemousses! ! !

McAlister Brewer

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-Casablanca! ! ! !

Courtney Harris

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-Livingston!

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-Pretoria! ! ! !

Sarah Young

Arts: !

Travel Memoirs -Jazz Festival

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Sarah Young

-Carthage Festival McAlister Brewer!

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-Panafest! ! ! !

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-Coon Carnival!

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Connor Nemetz

-Festival au DĂŠsert! ! ! ! !

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-Mombasa Carnival! !

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Nick Broussard

Itinerary

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-Voluntourism!

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-6 must see places!

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-Mind Your Manners! !

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-Books to Read!

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-Movies to See!

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-Souvenirs!

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McAlister Brewer and Connor Nemetz

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Connor Nemetz

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Alexa Zaheri

Courtney Harris and Connor Nemetz

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-6 Must do activites! !

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Nick Broussard

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-Timeline

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Sarah Young

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VISIT AFRICA

CALL (800) 535-2107 A. Zaheri

To

 make

 every

 dirty

 mouth

 feel

 clean!

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NEWS

CAPE TOWN The Danger that Dazzles the World beautiful Jlat-­‐topped Table Mountain. It does not cost any money. On the other hand, if you would like to see the mountain up close, you can book a trip by cable car to the Cape of Good Hope. It is a section of the Table Mountain National Park, and this does cost money. The Cape of Good Hope is also mountainous, but it is more of a rocky coastline that people like to see because it is a beautiful view.

The place to be in Cape

by Alexa Zaheri Town is the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, the most visited place in South Africa. There is shopping, entertainment, and While looking at all of the covered with tourists all of the even history in this one little amazing sights in Cape Town, time. There is a reason for Cape area. The waterfront shows make sure you keep your bag in Town being so populated with what Cape Town looked like in front of you at all times. Cape t o u r i s t s , t h o u g h i t i s s o the past. Also, there are many Town is known for robberies, dangerous. First of all, the plays being showed there all of mostly at night, but you still have culture of Africa booms in Cape the time. to keep a close eye on your items. Town; it is a city where you If you want to jazz up Cape Town is the one of the arrive there, and you just feel like your trip, the event to go to world’s most dangerous cities you are in the heart of Africa. would be the Cape Town Jazz other than the cities located in T h e p e o p l e a re ex t re m e ly Festival. This event takes place the United States. It has covered friendly. They love tourists, and at the Cape Town International all the dangerous points that a they love sharing their culture.

Convention Center where world-­‐ city can, including: rapes, Also, Cape Town is known for its renowned artists come and help kidnaps, murders, and the one world-­‐class shopping, mostly people. The Cape Town Jazz most commonly done, robberies. because it is not just regular Festival is not the same as the While the robberies are usually shopping. There are huge Jazz Fest in New Orleans, LA; it is carried out in the poorer or markets all over the streets. where people can apply for lower class areas, tourists are Table Mountain is one of musical and training workshops, still urged to stay off of the the major landmarks of Cape and artists will help them. Many streets at night and especially Town, and it would be a place tourists like to do this, so they not to use an ATM if not you would want to go when can learn more about African completely necessary. visiting Africa; it also is shown culture, including singing and Cape Town is located in on the Jlag of Cape Town. If you dancing. the south west of South Africa; it are standing in the city, and you See: Cape Town pg. 12. is one of three capitals, and it is look up you will see this ed up at night.

Town light The city of Cape

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S. Young

NEWS

LIVINGSTON Adrenaline Rush at Victoria Falls

by Nick Broussard to many, the 886 dollar nightly rate is well spent for your exiting trip to Africa. Get your rest because the next few days will be the time of your life.

Victoria Falls Devil’s Pool,which is at the top of Victoria Fa!s. national park is

Once you arrive at only 3 miles away from your Harry Mwanga Nkumbula luxury pad. At Victoria Falls International Airport in there is an inJinite list to get Livingston it’s just a short 20 your adrenalin pumping by minute car ride to the hotel. going white water rafting or When in Zambia, you have to bungee jumping 300 feet. stay at the best. The Royal Make sure you bring some Livingston Hotel is named in pocket change because honor of David Livingston. It overdosing on adrenaline isn’t has 20 buildings, a bar, and a cheap. restaurant. Even though the Victoria Falls Bridge is nightly rate might be a setback the border of Zambia and 3

Zimbabwe. The towering bridge is what you plummet off to what seems to be your death. This particular dosage of adrenaline will set you back 120 dollars. It permits ages 14 and above. As long as you are not included in a long list of disabilities that would prevent you from putting your life on the line, you should be set.

For a full day of high white water rafting at Victoria Falls, which is only a couple minutes away from your luxurious resort. You just need to pull out 135 dollars. After the two straight days of adrenaline visitors might want to take it easy and travel 10 minutes away across the border to

See: Livingston pg. 7.

NEWS

PRETORIA Make Your Wallet Happy rning. ed "om afar in the mo

ew The city of Pretoria vi

by Sarah Young

Africa might not be your destination of choice but if you really look you can Jind some really cool cities. Couples on a low budget that love to travel would love Pretoria, South Africa. On the northern part of South Africa, Pretoria has a lot of fun activities for low prices. If you are a history lover, there are some great museums and lots of African history to brush up on.

T h e S o u t h e r n S u n Pretoria is located in the heart of Pretoria and close to most attractions with a price of $135 a night. The hotel has restaurants and great service, but it is not recommended for a family.

Located in the heart of Pretoria, you can Jind the Stage Theatre. The stage theatre has been around since 1981. It is a great piece of architecture and a sight to see. It consists of Jive

theatres which project world-­‐ class African Jilms. Every once in a while the theatre has an opera showing or two. If you happen to be in town while there is an opera going on, you should go check it out. For couples on a low budget, this is the perfect place to get some real African Culture in. With architecture, African Jilms, and operas you can not go wrong.

If you want to get a taste of classy African fashion, check out the Brooklyn mall. If you are visiting in the summer, the Brooklyn Mall is a chance for you to experience a new part of Africa without being in the sun.

The Brooklyn mall is good for all people because it ranges from cheap to pricy clothing. The Brooklyn mall is for all people traveling to Pretoria,no matter if you are on a budget or not.

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The Baobab Cafe and Grill is the perfect casual place to eat.

If you are just looking to sit back and relax. At the Baobab Cafe and Grill, you can have lunch, dinner, or just sit down and have a cup of coffee. The Baobab serves ethnic African food of your choice.

Located in the Manlyn Mall, it is a great restaurant that is not very pricy at all. If you are looking for something more fancy, this is not necessarily the place for you. The Baobab is more for couples or families on a low budget, but that still can have fun.

T h e D i e W e r f i s a S o u t h e r n A f r i c a n s t y l e restaurant, perfect for the summer and winter. In the summer, you can sit out on an open deck, and in the winter, you can sit by a nice and toasty Jireplace. The restaurant consists of a garden, bar, and wine cellar.

The Die Werf serves ethnic food along with traditional desserts.

The mettert, also known as the milk tart, is a traditional dessert that many people eat. The Die Werf is perfect for those couples on a low budget that want to splurge one night, this is the perfect restaurant for that nice and cozy in Pretoria.

These guidelines will help you get started if you are planning a trip to Africa. Feel free to dig a little deeper and see what you can Jind in Pretoria or any other destination of your choice. Totsiens! ***

VOLUNTOURISM

Wildlife Program- This is a volunteering job in which you can

have direct contact with wildlife. The activities that the volunteers are allowed to do are as follows: feeding the baby animals, repairing cages, and administration work. The animals include lions, leopards, cheetahs, tigers, small cats, and cubs.

HIV/AIDS Project- This opportunity is a long or short term job,

depending on the volunteer’s availability in which the volunteers could work in government hospitals, mission hospitals, private hospitals, clinics, and HIV/AIDS homes. The job is open for medical and non-medical sutdents

Orphanage- Located in Ghana, there is an orphanage that

needs a lot of help with the children there. They work in a safe environment where the volunteers are not at risk of being harmed, but in turn the volunteers do have very busy schedueles.

The jobs that the volunteers will be expected to do include: helping in the kitchen, playing games with the children, and feeding the babies.

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NEWS

WATER POLLUTION Death Can Happen in the Water Water that has been po!uted in Southern Africa.

by Connor Nemetz

When traveling to Africa, try to be careful when drinking water or you may contract a disease. The drought that has been occurring all throughout Africa has been leaving areas in Africa with little to no water.

This has made women and children walk long distances to receive water for that day. Often the little water they do Jind often is polluted.

W a t e r p o l l u t i o n i s happening all throughout Africa, by many different types of wa s t e , o n e b e i n g m i n i n g organizations throwing their waste in the local rivers or streams. Also, sewage system and waste from animals are a large contribution to the illness transferred through water. One of the major diseases that is t r a n s f e r r e d t h r o u g h t h e polluted water is Cholera.

Cholera can cause diarrhea, rapid pulse, vomiting, and dehydration. Cholera can cause death within a time period of 12-­‐18 hours.

Another savvier problem is the drought that has been happening in Eastern African.

Do to the low amount of water h ave re s u l te d i n fa r m e r s planting their crops close to water that maybe contaminated.

After that, animals such as cows, or humans will usually eat the plants that have been in water.

If the cow eats the plants, the cow will be contaminating itself, through the plant that absorbed the polluted water. The cycle continues when people eat the cow or the plant and get ill do to the passed on contamination.

The areas most affected by this drought are Somalia, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda; 6

many of which are located on the Eastern part of Africa.

Since the water is so far from the villages, the women and children usually have to walk all day to get the water. This is affecting the children because they are missing the school or not helping to grow crops in order to go get the water for that day.

Also, if a child is born in the Sub-­‐ Sahara African area it has a 22 percent chance of survival. Most newborn babies do not survive. If the child is lucky enough to live past its Jirst year of childhood the child might live to the age of 15.

Some of the ways that organizations around the world are trying to help the citizens of Africa to get water from bore holes or wells. They are trying to use wells and bore holes to Jind water underground that is close to the village. Wells or bore holes will allow the villages to get clean water that is closer to the village.

This will allow the children to spend less time getting water rather than not attend school or help grow the crops. Hopefully with the new well or bore holes it will reduce the number of death by contaminated water. ***

An African child drinking po!uted water.

Victoria Fa!s viewed "om far away.

Livingston: "om pg. 3.

play a round of golf and then treat your self to a day at the spa.

On the Zambia and Zimbabwe border there is a multitude of activities to fulJill all of your extreme dreams.

One day visitors need to take a guided trip to the Devil’s Pool.

It is at least 300 plus feet in the air. Then you can defy death and swim to the edge of the falls. This is a must see at Victoria Falls. Victoria Falls is the biggest waterfall in the world because it covers so much land. You can see the mist of the water at the top if the Falls. Victoria falls includes six Jlowing gorges.

If visitors want to extend the trip, you can always take a cruise. Victoria Falls is so unique because you can bungee jump in two different countries at the same time and

do many more activities in the falls and in the gorges. You can white water raft and kayak in the different gorges. The gorges Jlow zigzag, which make for a good ride.

The Falcon Safari Company supplies all of the thrill seeking adventures on the Zimbabwe and Zambia border. There are two main resorts, The Royal Livingston of Zambia and Elephant Hills of Zimbabwe. One of the advantages of Elephant Hills is that it has a golf course. If you are looking for a thrill in Africa make sure you stop at Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. ***

NEWS

PAMPLEMOUSSES Budgeting with Jenny Dear Jenny,

I’m taking my three boys on a trip to anywhere in the world. Where did they c h o s e ? A f r i c a , m o r e speciJically, they want an island. I know nothing about Africa, or their islands. My childrens ages are 10, 11, and 14. Please help me plan a great vacation for them, but with a budget. cc c c c c c c c c c c c Sincerely, Reader

A good island to visit in Africa? Try Mauritius, located right off the east coast of Madagascar. This small French island is perfect for a small family get away. In Mauritius there is the little village os T r o u a u x B i c h e s i n Pa m p l e m o u s s e s . F u l l o f

by McAlister Brewer markets and cafes its the ideal get away for people of all ages.

A great to place to stay in Trou aux Biches is Villas Mont Choisy. Only $80 a night and located on the beach. The hotel has 18 rooms. each room has a bedroom with one king sized bed and a bathroom.

There is also a living area with a sofa bed. And a full kitchen.

There is an outdoor swimming pool and and kiddie pool. Also there is a kids area, for the parents who need a day off.

Other features are a wake up service, airport shuttle, and car rental services at the front desk.

Now you have a hotel, what is there to do? Ever w a n t e d t o s w i m w i t h 7

dolphins, you could always take the 15 minute drive down to Port Louis for the Dolphin Venture. All you need to do is set up the appointment via email and they will be ready for you. During this adventure you are served lunch. Maybe you want something that is low key. Visit the L’Aventure du Sucre. This little museum is super kid friendly, and it also is educational at the same time. Located at the old sugar mill, your kids can run through the machines while learning what they do. Plus its a great picnic spot.

When you get hungry from all that adventure go sit d o w n a t L e F a n g o u r i n Restaurant. This bistro is a See: Pamplemousses pg. 14.

Must See If you are one who loves to see a great view Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania, is the place for you. The height of Mount Kilimanjaro is 19,341 feet above sea level. It consists of three volcanic cones called Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. If you enjoy views and like to work to see them then this is mount is for you.

The Abu Simbel Temples are two great monuments built for ancient kings called Pharaohs. The Abu Simbel Egypt were built for the Pharaoh Ramesses II, but were also built for the Egyptian gods. These monuments were first moved from their original place close to the Nile River. If you like seeing big monuments built for Pharaohs then this is the place for you.

The Karnak Temple Complex is another great place to see monuments. It is also known as the second most visited place following the Pyramids of Giza and is the world largest religion site. In the Karnak Temple Complex is the home to Precinct of AmunRe, the Precinct of Mut, the Precinct of Montu, the Temple of Amenhotep IV, and Luxor Temple.

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Places in Africa The Sphinx- Located in on the outskirts of Giza, this ancient pyramid is magnificent. You could go anywhere in the world and someone might know about these must see destinations. Buried deep in the Sphinx is King Khafre. His tomb is an animal bod and a human head, the human head being his own. The Sphinx took 20-30 years to build, on estimation.

Fish River Canyon in Nambia- Known as the second largest Canyon, behind the Grand Canyon, the Fish River Canyon is a must see.

With the beautiful Fish River flowing through it, you could spend days in here. The canyon was formed over 500 million years ago, due to water erosion and part of the valley collapsing because of moving plates in the Earth’s core.

It is also one of the most famous hiking trail in Southern Africa.

Valley of Kings- Located in modern day Thebes, Valley of Kings is a summer to do. This area of 63 tombs and chambers of various king and queens of the 18th through 20th centuries. In the Theban Hills the Valley of Kings is on the west side of the Nile River.

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NEWS

CASABLANCA Romancing in Casa where the legendary film The city of Casablanca

“Casablanca ” was set.

by Courtney Harris

Visit Playas Ain Diab y La Corniche, it is a beautiful beach with a view of the Hassan II Mosque. Stay at beautiful Le Palace d’Anfa, or if you’re looking for something smaller and more intimate go to the Riad Andalib.

T r a v e l i n g a r o u n d Casablanca can be done in many ways; Casablanca operates on three railroad systems and t a x i c a b s . C a s a b l a n c a i s a wonderful city to visit, especially for a romantic get away. Visit the beautiful city of Casablanca. ***

Come visit Morocco’s l a r g e s t c i t y, C a s a b l a n c a .

Casablanca is a beautiful city located in the Chawiga plain.

Casablanca is a metropolitan city, with a Mediterranean climate. There is minimum rainfall during the summer and cool currents from the Atlantic.

Casablanca is wonderful place to have a romantic vacation or, even a honeymoon.

Although Casablanca is not a major tourist attraction, there are many great aspects to this beautiful city worth seeing.

There are many beaches, day adventures, museums, and m a n y s i t e s t o s e e a n d experience. You and a partner can enjoy a romantic walk on one of the many beaches; enjoy a surJing lesson in the Atlantic, a hiking excursion, or even h o r s e b a c k r i d i n g i n t h e

mountains. If you wanted a m o r e c u l t u r a l v i e w o f Casablanca visit the Hassan II Mosque or the Museum of Moroccan Judaism. You could stay in one of the many fabulous hotels and enjoy a spa day in Every day a one the popular spas. Go out for child in a night on the town, try a local cabaret or in Rick’s Café. Rick’s Africa dies.

Café is a popular and exciting bar/café to go to if you are looking for fun. For the more romantic resturant vibe, spend t h e e v e n i n g d i n n i n g i n C a s a b l a n c a ’ s f a m o u s L a Bavaroise. La Bavaroise has a very intimate setting and is the Jinest dinning in Casablanca.

Give just one dollar to Have a picnic in the beautiful Parc de la Ligue Arabe. Parc de Unicef... Save a la Ligue Arabe has a French layout but still has very Africa child’s life. aspects.

A. Zaheri

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Mind your manners When traveling to Africa hears some types to use, so you do not look like a “boobus americanus”: Egypt ! ! ! !

!)Arabic is the country’s official language, but English is the most common ! foreign language spoken. Also, French is one of the by some Egyptians.

2)Do not talk about people’s wives or daughters. Also, do not acknowledge his ! wife unless she speaks to you or if he brings her up in a conversation.

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3)Be prepared for a lot of close contact such as a lot of shaking hands and ! kissing of the cheeks. Also, do not back away from a person or they will ! think you are rejecting them.

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South Africa

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1)First keep a quiet voice, yelling is considered by them rude and challenging. !

Another fact is, do not interrupt a South African when they are speaking.

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2)English is the most spoken language followed by Afrikaans and Bantu, ! which has nine different dialects.

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3)Most South Africans will shake hands while looking you straight in the eyes, ! but some will not look at you.

Morocco

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1)Arabic is noticed at the official language of Morocco, but Berber, French, !

Spanish, and English is a growing language.

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2)Moroccans will not always trust you to start out with, but once you gain their ! trust; their friends will do the same.

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3)While eating pass plates with your right hand, as the left hand is used for 11 ! unclean activities.

Cape Town: "om pg. 2.

An amazing hotel to stay at which will provide you with easy access to all of these places is called the Inn on the Square Green Market; its price comes to about $110 per night, and it is right off of Green Market square.

Green Market square is one of the oldest markets around Cape Town.

As you can see Cape Town is one of the most interesting cities in Africa. It portrays the culture, history, and beauty. Even though the crime rates are high, this city seems to pull through it all. So, as they say, do not judge a book by its cover, or in this case do not judge a city by its crimes.

Cape Town’s Table Mountain is extremely famous for its looks. You can buy a pass to take a cable car to the mountain.

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Percent of The Population Living Below Poverty Line in Africa 100

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A. Zaheri

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Liberia South Africa Zambia 12

Nigeria

Kenya

Ethiopia

Shea Butter

Make

 your

 skin

 smooth!

 Africans

 have

 been

 using

 this

 product

 forever

 in

 their

 dry

 and

 hot

 climate

 country,

 and

 their

 skin

 is

 fantastic.

13 C. Nemetz

Pamplemousses: "om pg. 7.

fusion of cajun and creole. With a price range of $30-­‐$109 its great. There is excellent food, friendly service, great value and a warming atmosphere. But unfortunately Le Fangourin is only open for lunch, unless you make a special party for dinner.

Now hop in the car and take the 15 minute drive down to Port

Louis, where you can eat at Nandos. This restaurant is of Portugese cuisine. And with high rated food, service, and value, why wouldn’t you want to eat here?

Now that you have been given the budgeted guide to African islands, look up other islands, and share with your families. Also, keep sending in y o u r q u e s t i o n s t o

askjenny@destination.mag.com.

Have a wonderful day and wonderful trip to Africa. a a a a a a a a*** aaaaaaaaa

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The beautiful Island of Pamplemousses in the morning, as the waves hit the beach.

Graphs- Population, HIV/AIDS, Poverty, and more...

See other graphs on pgs. 3 and 12.

N. Broussard

M. Brewer

C. Nemetz

C. Harris

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The

 International

 Communicator For

 more

 information

 visit:

 www.skype.com

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A. Zaheri

by A. Zaheri

16 M. Brewer

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ARTS

JAZZ FEST One Dance and One Costume Makes a Big Disaster zz Fest. zz at the Ja g smooth Ja

layin The Band p

by Sarah Young

Hi, I am Sarah Young and I am in tenth grade at Mcgehee High School. Mcgehee offers a program where anyone going into eleventh grade can take a trip to Africa with the school.

Although I would love to spend a month in summer with my teachers, I would like to take this trip on my own. Since my family travels a lot I am experienced enough to travel on my own. On my trip I will be going to St. Louis, Senegal.

I am on the plane right now and I am overjoyed. The only problem is that I cannot speak the language, I only know a few words. Hopefully, these few words can get me by.

Meanwhile, the plane is very cold, and their are no blankets to keep me warm. Since I am going to Africa in the summer I did not think I would be needing a

blanket. This trip has already started off not good, and I am not even to Africa yet.

The sun is beaming down, and I can already feel sweat dripping down my face. I am already thinking negatively and I have been in Sengeal for 30 minutes. I need to pull myself together. Now it is time to head to my hotel on the coast of St. Louis.

“ H i , ” I s a y t o t h e receptionist

Oh wait I forgot no one speaks English here.

“Why hello,” says the receptionist

I am surprised that the receptionist can speak English.

The receptionist is a man which is very strange to me. He has a rusty old name tag that reads Okonkwo. This name is familiar to me. I remember when I was in 18

Eighth grade at Trinity I read a book called Things Fall Apart and the protagonist’s name was Okonkwo. Okonkwo means man on the fourth day of the week. I hear the receptionist in the back of my back of my head.

“Ma’am do you need any help,” says Okonkwo

“Oh sorry I was not paying attention,” I said

“Would you like to check in?” I checked in and while we were waiting for the computer to load I decided to use the time to ask him some questions.

“Does everybody in this hotel speak English?” I ask

“No, just me because I just came back from a trip from America where I studied English,” says Okonkwo

This is great, I have met someone who has been to America and speaks English and the language in Senegal. My room is ready and I decide to go get settle in. The lobby is nice, so I Jigure the room must be nice too.

This is not the case. I walk into my room it is hot and stuffy the pillows are hard. It feels like you are laying on a bag of wet sand.

The bathroom is tiny and I can barely Jit my toothbrush on the sink counter. My last hope for the room is the view. I open the dusty and dark curtains to Jind a perfect view of the waves crashing against the sand with a perfect See: Jazz Fest pg. 33.

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CARTHAGE FESTIVAL My Friend Is the Baboon

The Lion King

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being performed

by McAlister Brewer

I s t e p p e d o n t o t h e runway in Tunis, Tunisia. It was the summer of 2004 and my Jirst visit to Africa. I sat at the airport for three hours. I was slowly starting to doze off when I heard my name,

“Julia! AJi,” AJi was the name given me meaning born on a friday, I was quickly at attention. Then I saw RaJiki, we had met in 1999 and were instant friends.

“RaJiki, how is your baboon?” It was our joke because the baboon from The Lion King was named RaJiki. He laughed and then took me to the car.

During the long drive out of Tunis we were chatting,

“Well, tell me, how is Bisa,” I said to him. Bisa is his wife.

“Bisa,” he cut off there and started crying. I instantly jumped to conclusions,

“Oh RaJiki, I’m sorry, I didn’t know. Please don’t cry,” He started laughing and I saw they were tears of joy,

”Calm down AJi, we just had our Jirst child.” I was over come with anger and joy.

“RaJiki! You scared me!

But tell me, what is it,” then all the questions poured out of me.

It was a girl named Kamili, meaning perfection, she was three weeks old, and she was always sleeping. I knew he could have gone on for hours but we arrived at the house.

Before I knew it I was attacked

by Bisa. She was screaming at me saying how happy she was to see me.

That night there was a feast in my honor. I met the 19

whole family. First I met the small children, then the teenagers, then the adults and then the elders.

The ones who took to me the most were the small children. The children loved my hair. I was also the Jirst American they had ever seen.

Everyone that night kept asking me about my life as a doctor, was it interesting, was it difJicult, do I enjoy my job. My answer to all was yes. Then one of the little girls named Doli came up to me and asked me if I had any children. RaJiki instantly pulled her away, the problem was, I had a child in 1998. He was a little boy named Logan. There were complications with his birth and he died three months later in February 1999. I pulled her back and said this to her,

“Yes, I had a little boy named Logan. One night God came and he said, Julia Logan needs to live with me now. I promise he will be safe. He will grow old and live a good life, ?illed with happiness. So God took Logan from me” Doli looked at me with sad eyes, she was confused.

Then she gave me a hug and whispered in my ear,

“I bet Logan miss you very much. You are nice, and pretty, and have good hair.” I started to laugh, but stopped as soon as I saw she was serious. Then her father called her over saying s o m e t h i n g i n t h e i r n a t ive See: Carthage Festival pg. 23.

& Keep Your Guns Close and Your Enemies Closer

by Alexa Zaheri

Join the larger than life family, the Fullers, on their action packed adventure through Africa. Meet up with the two girls, Bobo and Van, and their parent, Nicola and Tim, as they face the obstacles of Africa and their own emotions, such as Nicola’s drunkenness or the border patrol and even living smack in the middle of a civil war. Travel with them through Zambia, Zimbabwe, and more! So join the gang and read this gripping travel memoir, Alexandra Fuller’s Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight!

This Is Her Unresolvable Problem Living on Zebra Rd. is a pretty good life for Mma Ramotswe. She

by McAlister Brewer

Lions on Your Tail?

Don’t Run!

by Nick Broussard

owned a top notch business, people respect her, she has loving friends, and family. But there are always problems with a perfect life. Mma Ramotswe is now facing conflicts of her past and for the first time she doesn't have a solution. Her close friends try to help her, her husband tries to love her for the mistake she has made, but can he feel the same about her?

Whatever You Do, Don’t Run is a group of short stories written by a safari guide named Peter Allison. This collection is a great read for anyone looking for adventure, and a good laugh. He gives a detailed perspective of life as a safari guide in Botswana. As you read the collection, you feel like you are actually at the safari camp experiencing all the wild adventures.

No Longer at Ease Tells the No Longer at Ease is a great novel for an armchair traveler who Truth About African Corruption wants to travel to Africa. It is a fantastic sequel to the African

by Connor Nemetz

Novel, Things Fall Apart, written by Chinua Achebe. It is about Okonkwo’s grandson, Obi Okonkwo, son of Isaac Okonkwo, Nwoye. Throughout the book, he struggles with people trying to bribe him, his love of Clara, and keeping his family happy. After reading this book, you will learn the true corruption that happened in business in Africa, and how African traditions were still there.

Pig-sticking Leads to Murders Seymour, an englishman, is sent to Tangier, Morocco to

by Sarah Young

Your Fate Is in Your Hands

by Courtney Harris

investigate the murder of a French man, Bossu. With the hot weather and not being able to speak the language Seymour struggles. Join Seymour as he discovers a new culture. A Dead Man in Tangier combines clash of culture and a mystery into one book. Do you think you can figure out who it is?

The Bite of the Mango tells the amazing journey of a young girl living in Sierra Leone, Africa, during the attack of the rebels.

Twelve-year-old Mariatu only wanted one thing out of life, happiness. Mariatu endures many challenges, a lot of stress, but at the end she reaches her goal.

20

Blood Diamond- is a 2006 movie set during the civil war in Sierra Leone. It follows to men that have to ban together to find a rare diamond hat could change their lives forever.

The Last King of Scotland- is about a young Scottish doctor that goes to Uganda on a medical trip and ends up being the doctor for the dictator Idi Amin. It is based on real events and tells about the life of Amin and the struggles he endured.

Casablanca- is a 1942 love story that takes place in the city of Casablanca during World War II. It is about a man that has to choose between his love and fighting against the Nazi powers.

Madagascar- is an animated Disney movie about a group of animals that escape from the Central Park Zoo and end up in Madagascar, Africa. Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa is the sequel to Madagascar and it is about the adventure of the animals traveling to Africa so that Alex the Lion can reunite with his family.

The Lion King- is a classic Disney movie about a young lion, Simba. His mischievous uncle that wants to be king tricks Simba, and as a result of Simba being fooled it gets his father killed. Simba runs away and meets two wild hogs that end up raising him.

21

ARTS

PANAFEST Trapped in the Shack g drums Strong men beatin

while at Panafest.

by Alexa Zaheri

The beat of the drums sounds in my ears, while Dark faces chant words whose meaning I cannot imagine.

Even so, I somehow feel as if I am where I should be.

We, my brother, Spencer, Mom, Dad, and I, have just arrived in the small airport of Ghana, Africa. I am sweating like a black lab would on a summer’s day. We are Jlying African Air, minus the air part.

The plane lacked a major machine, the air conditioner. I imagine the whole trip will be this way. Maybe, I could make a paper fan, for I am sure that would help.

Dad sells tractors to Africans for a low price, which is why we are in Ghana. I always believed it was wrong to do that, sell machinery like that to Africans, to come in from our

rich old town, New York City, and Jlaunt all of our riches. I just do not see the point why Dad cannot just sell his great, big tractors in the United States.

Now, he is dragging me along to make me a part of this act because he says it is spring break, and that the family should spend some quality time together. Yeah right, like he will even be there half of the time.

We arrive at our hotel 30 minutes later; well, it was really just an array of shacks made up of cement and bamboo roofs, with a slightly larger shack in the front as the lobby. I am sure this place has air condition! By then it was nine O’clock at night, and everyone was going to sleep. As I closed my eyes, I heard a faint pounding of a drum, “Boom, boom, boom!”

Then I hear chants; it sounded 22

something like, “Chay-­‐chay koolay!” Then someone else would repeat the same chant. It sounded like Indians chanting. I sit up and quietly peep out the dirty window. I see Jire and people dancing just about a mile away. That looks like an adventure! Of course, Dad will never allow it, and Mom will just go with the Jlow, so I doubt I’ll be going to that. Then, I fall into a deep, deep sleep.

I see the tiger as it comes closer and closer to me. It looks ready to pounce. All of a sudden, it bends its knees, and releases itself about Jive feet into the air with its mouth wide open. As it is about to land smack on top of me, I sit up. “ Spencer, get off now! What are you doing?”

“ You would not wake up.”

“ Well, was jumping on top of me the answer?”

“ N o . ” H e s a y s s o innocently. At this point, I am ready for Mom to come yell at me for beating up my brother, but no for she is not there. I see a note taped to the wall. It reads, “ Honey, I will be back around Jive P.M.” Finally, sweet, sweet alone time in Africa, thank the Lord!

Then, I hear it again, the faint drumming. I Jigure since I have nothing to do, I might as well Jind it. I follow the noise to this colorful street corner with a huge sign that reads, “Panafest.” I walk in to see this huge, colorful See: Panafest pg. 28.

Carthage Festival: "om pg. 19.

language. She gave me a quick hug, hopped off my lap and ran away.

Then next day was the festival, the whole reason I was in Africa. When I woke up, RaJiki was already gone. There was not time to think about that, I had to g e t r e a d y. T h e F e s t i v a l International de Carthage. I came because they were doing The Lion King, and RaJiki was RaJiki, the baboon.

We arrived and I realized why everyone raves about it.

There is food, music, caged animals, and every other day there is a different play. Todays play was The Lion King. We were wondering around, listening to music, buying food every so often, when we heard the scream.

“ H E L P ! P L E A S E S O M E B O DY H E L P H I M ! ” I instantly knew it was RaJiki

yelling. I started to sprint screaming behind me,

“ S TA Y H E R E ! S TA Y BACK!” But Bisa knew it was RaJiki too, she quickly handed Kamili to her sister and was next to me sprinting in no time.We arrived to see the disaster. A man had been attacked by one of the caged animals and was slowly bleeding out. I instantly went into doctor mode.

“I need gauze...” I started screaming out drug after drug when I realized I wasn’t at the hospital. Then a woman ran up, she was niether African nor American but, I didn’t have time to worry about that though. She started screaming out things that were just gibberish to me.

Then drugs and tribal remedies w e r e e v e r y w h e r e . I w a s watching her hands Jly throwing powders and goos on his wounds. She turned towards me and said in an Australian accent,

“Wrap him up, now! He needs to get to the hospital.”

Without thinking I was grabbing every single cloth I could reach.

A woman started to get angry that I was using her scarves when I threw my wallet at Bisa,

“Give the woman the money. I have to get him to the h o s p i t a l .” H e wa s o n t h e stretcher by the time I had Jinished saying this, and was almost at the entrance at the festival. We only got there so fast because everyone was where the man was attacked

“I’m Julie,” she said

“Julia,” I replied

“Nice to meet you Julia.

Do you know the way to the hospital?” I shook my head no,

“A l r i g h t y t h e n , I ’ m driving.” And we were off. She drove like a maniac to the hospital, and when we arrived I saw that she worked there.

“Can you do the surgery, Julia,” asked Julie. I quickly went See: Carthage Festival pg. 27 .

S. Young

23

D

o

l

o

r

2

ARTS

COON FESTIVAL My Son Booked a Trip to Cape Town

med a minstrel show The men that perfor

cture. posing for a quick pi

by Connor Nemetz

I look around and I am seeing people dancing, yelling, and playing instruments, should I join in or should I keep doing what I’ve been doing, stand and watch. The Jirst day of a trip to another country is always the most difJiculty, well for me at least. For day one of my trip to Cape Town, South Africa it did not start how I wanted it to.

First I woke up an hour late for my Jlight and missed it. Then I had to wait for eight hour until the next Jlight could take me to Cape Town, but that was not a direct Jlight, like the one I was suppose to take. The Jlight that I now have to take is going to have to stop in Florida to fuel up before Jlying over the Atlantic Ocean, to stop in Morocco fuel up yet again, and then Jinally Jly south to my stop Cape Town, South Africa.

Luckily on my Jlight I met a three very nice people. Their names were Hannah, Jihad, and Clara. Hannah, Jihad, and Clara are all from Cape Town but had gone to the U.S. to visit. One of their favorite trips in the U.S. was to New Orleans, where I was born. They loved New Orleans so much because they were visiting during Mardi Gras.

“We loved Mardi Gras so much. We loved how the big cars would throw us those very colorful necklaces.” Said Hannah H a h a “ O o o o h h h ye s Mardi Gras. I rode in a Jloat this year for Bacchus. Also, the automobile you called ‘the big cars’ are called Jloats, and the ‘very colorful necklaces’ are called beads.” I said “Thanks, so do you enjoy living in New Orleans?” said Clara 24

“Yes it’s such a great place to live. What about yall, do yall liking living in Cape Town?” I said “Very much so! It is a very pretty place and full of history. I think your going to love your stay there. That reminds me we also have a festival that kind of relates to Mardi Gras its called Coon Carnival.” Said Jihad “Really that’s great, I think I will probably enjoy it.” I said There’s no way Coon Carnival could compare to Mardi Gras. The plane Jinally landed and I was ecstatic to Jinally be able to get out of that plane.

When I was stepping off the plane I notice it was extremely hot and I felt awful, I guess it was about 98 degrees. Then found out from my newly made friends that the weather today was actually very nice to them.

While going through customs, I was stuck behind this large, repulsive smelling, anger man yelling at the lady behind the desk for no apparent reason.

Seeing this ungrateful man yelling at her I had to step in and tell him to claim down, but that did not work out to well for me considering he was the m a n a g e r o f t h e c u s t o m exchange. Since he was in such a bad mood he turned his anger See: Coon Carnival pg. 26 .

25

streets that the carnival happens on. When we get there I look around and all I am seeing is toward me and called the police people dressed in bright colored over and told them I had invalid suits, blowing whistles, playing papers and need to be searched instruments, dancing, and very well. One moment I was in yelling some type of chant. I the line for customs then the found it all so overwhelming next I was in a room being that I just ended up questioned and being standing there half the yell at in a different time in aw, until Clara language, which I came over and grabbed could not understand. me pulling me into the Finally they told me I noisy crowd and told got one call so I had to me to start dancing. As think fast. I decided I w a s t h i n k i n g t o to call Hannah, Jihad, myself where I should and Clara because start to dance or not, I they were the only heard the loud drum ones I knew that b e a t o f t h e m a n could possible help standing next to me. me now since they As I was hearing this were probably the drum, my foot started only ones that could An American enjoying himself at Coon Carnival in Cape Town. to tap on the ground in possible understand the sink with the drum. ofJicers. u m b r e l l a o r p l a y i n g a n Finally after one or two instrument. Also they are put Then the next thing I know was hours Hannah, Jihad and Clara into groups called Klopse or that I was dancing like a crazy man. After that day, the next were able to free me from the clubs. hands of the ofJicers and were Finally the carnival I had few days of the Coon Carnival on our way. Since they were been waiting for was here. were a blast except, when I fell able to help me, I told them I When I Jirst woke up in the on to this man in the carnival would pay for lunch for all them. morning I was so excited, that I and he started to yell at me in They agreed after awhile to let through myself out of bed, Zulu it seems. Luckily when this me buy them lunch, so they throw my clothes on, and ran happened I had Jihad there to suggested a nice little restaurant down stairs to hail a taxi. When explain that I did not mean called Beluga, which is their I sat in the tax and tried to tell anything by it and I was very favorite place to eat. While the drive where I wanted to go sorry. I do not know where I eating I asked them about the he did not speak English. Yet could possible be without Jihad, festival Coon Carnival they again I ran into a person that did Hannah, and Clara to help mentioned earlier. not speak a lick of English. So, I translate conversations for me.

Tomorrow I am Jlying “Coon Carnival is some ran inside the hotel found a what similar to Mardi Gras but cheap English to Afrikaans home; hopefully I do not wake yet it’s, its own event. Coon dictionary, and was able to piece up late or run into that unkind Carnival is also called Kaapse o u t a p o o r ly p ro n o u n c e d customs agent again. Also, I told Klopse. Coon Carnival is a sentence in Afrikaans to tell the Jihad, Hannah, and Clara if they minstrel festival held every year man that I wanted to go to my were every in America to come on the 2nd of January.” Said friend’s house and pick them up. and visit me, I would be more Hannah After picking up my t h e n h a p py t o re p ay t h e friends from their house we kindness they showed me. drove down to one of the main *** Coon Carnival : "om pg. 24.

“Cool Mardi Gras is held every Fat Tuesday, but the dates change sometimes.” I said I later found out that usually 13,000 minstrels take place. While walking down the street they are either wearing bright colors with a colorful

26

Carthage Festival: "om pg. 23.

into action. Putting on the surgery gown, a cap, washing my hands, and running into the operation room.

I was suddenly over come with grief, I knew this man. I stopped moving. I heard someone calling for me but, I was frozen. This was Doli’s father, Eze. I snapped out of it just in time. I was screaming everything you can possibly scream in surgery, and I wasn’t going to give up on him.

Two hours and eight minutes later, Eze was sleeping in a hospital bed, surround by the same party whom I had the feast with last night. Doli was laying next to her father, trying to be light as a feather, so she wouldn’t disturb him. His wife, his children, and the elders were sitting. Everyone else was standing. I came in an hour after the surgery and was greeting by round of applause, cheering and food. Lots and lots of food. The next thing I knew, Doli was all over me, she was crying and ARTS

hugging me. I didn’t know what to say.

Eze recovered in record time. He was taken to physical therapy for eight months, I stayed the whole time. I made a new family, and found a new home. I had children again. I realized that sometimes in the face of danger you need to over come your fears and push through. I ended up moving to Arica for Jive years. Now Eze and I both agree that we wouldn't change the accident, and we would want everything the way it is now. ***

FESTIVAL AU DÉSERT March to the Beat of My Mali Drum re.

The people

of Mali

e fi ized by th are mesmer

I’ve spent the past year and a half preparing to go to the Festival au Désert in Northern Mali. The festival is in Esssakane, which is two hours from Timbuktu. My closest friends, Dannie, Lola, and I have decided the best way to learn about the culture is attending a festival. Dannie bought a Rosetta Stone to teach us how to speak French, it didn’t help much. I took matters into my own hands and I found

by Courtney Harris someone to teach me the language and I have done surprisingly well. I’ve done a lot of research and to prepare for my two weeks in Africa. The festival is only three days but there is no way I can accomplish everything.

It was finally time for us to leave for our adventure to Africa. Our flight to Miami leaves at 4:30 am. I didn’t get much sleep the night before, my nerves took over. I tried to take a quick power nap before the girls came to load up and go to the airport that plan failed. Around 1:20 Dannie comes barging into my apartment and Lula following her, who never fails to slam the door behind her.

27

“Elisey Lise…Elise…ELISE!” screamed Dannie “ I b e t s h e ’s s t i l l sleeping.” Added Lola “ELISE” yelled Dannie At this point I’m trying to hide in my closet but Sergeant Dannie and Captain Lola caught me and pushed me into the bathroom to get ready as they brought my things to the car. As I whipped the sleep out of my eyes and looked in the mirror I realized it was really time for us to leave for Africa. I was so excited I rushed and hurried to get ready. I could hear Sergeant Dannie was coming up the stairs. She marched, her infamous combat boots made a sound at every step until she finally threw the door open and jumped on my bed.

See: Festival au Désert pg. 30 .

Panafest: "om pg. 22.

festival going on. It was so amazing. I see these huge muscular men banging drums, women dancing in colorful African dresses, and men chanting songs in massive head d r e s s e s .

Then, I walk a r o u n d t o look at the art and see this beautiful A f r i c a n p a i n t i n g hanging on t h e w i r e fence. It was a portrait of this African w o m a n w e a r i n g a m a r o o n h e a d s c a r f looking very s e r i o u s .

Then, I meet this little girl named Abidemi. Her name apparently means, “Born when father is away.” Her father died in a war before she was born, so her mother named her that.

The little girl introduced me to an African dance called Gahu.

Gahu is when all of the women

gather together, dance in a circle, and chant songs.

Abidemi told me an African folktale about a tortoise, the animal that convinced some birds to give him wings to go to a feast in the sky. He told the birds they all had to pick new names, and that his new name

Kids running around at Panafest.

was “All of You.” So in the sky when the host of the feast said this food is for all of you, the tortoise took all of the food for himself, and he did not share.

Therefore the birds took his wings away from him, so he had to jump from the sky and ended up cracking his shell. The moral of the story is that being greedy will never end well for anyone.

Abidemi told me that her mother tells her this all of the time. She insists that I remember it when I go back to America.

Then, I hear it: the voice of all voices. The only voice other than mine that does not have a strong African accent.

My father’s. It is not very hard for my father to Jind me because I am the only light skinned 28

person at the festival. When he did, he grabbed me by my shirt and started yelling at me, in front of everyone. All I hear is silence, which was strange for a place like this; everyone was staring at “the two crazy white people.” I was so embarrassed.

Dad says angrily,” Where were you? We have been looking for you for the past hour!”

“ I w a s here, like I was when you found me.”

“You are in h u g e t r o u b l e young lady!” He says as he drags me out of the festival crying.

Before we leave, I remember to turn around and wave to Abidemi, and she sadly waves back, knowing that her friend is leaving forever.

We arrive back at the shack, also known as a hotel, and Dad throws me down on the couch.

All of a sudden, we hear a knock on the door, and it is Abidemi.

She is coming to save me! She told Dad the story of the tortoise, and that he should not be greedy and take all of the “food” or in this case, fun, away f r o m m e . H e J i n a l l y sympathizes with me and takes me back to the festival. We arrive there, and I hear the beat of the drums. I see the dark faces of the people of Ghana chanting words that I cannot understand. Even so, I feel as if I am where I should be. And with that thought, I break out in dance.

***

African Souvenirs Exploring around the many markets in Africa can often be exciting and quite overwhelming. There are so many great works that are being sold in the markets. If you are looking for the perfect souvenir to bring home, here are some gifts that will please anyone. The popular handmade RafďŹ a Baskets are around $48 dollars, prices vary depending on size. Traditional African dolls and beaded animals range around $22 - $45 dollars. Hand painted candles are also easy to quickly pick up if your in a rush and they are sure to please. The hands painted candles are about $25 dollars in most places but could vary by size. Bigger items that could be in your home such as paintings and sculptures can also vary in prices. African paintings and sculptures can vary from $20-$2000 dollars. African works have become very popular and will please anyone.

29

Festival au Désert: "om pg. 27.

“Elise, its finally time. It’s time for us to go. I’ve waited so long for this.” Screamed Dannie.

Lola, Dannie, and I jumped up and down on my bed screaming like a little girls that had just gotten ponies. We ran downstairs jumped in the car and headed to the airport.

We arrived at the airport about 20 minutes later that expected and it started to rain. I began getting nervous again. I tried to keep calm. After finishing giving TSA a show, we ran to the gate to check in. The lady at the gate told us the plane was delayed and it would be about 20 minutes. The approximated 20 minutes turned into an hour and 20 minutes.

After finally boarding I spent the next three hours and 15 minutes in front of a little boy that kept screaming, “Mommy I have to potty.” Little Johnny kicked my seat from New York to Miami.

We a r r i v e d t o t h e M i a m i International Airport an hour later but we still had a 30-minute layover. I was exhausted by this time and the rest of the world was just waking up. Lola and Dannie talked and giggled the whole time, personally I just wanted to get to Mali, check in to the hotel, and take a nap. I began to doze when the lady at the gate comes over the loud speakers “Flight 264 going to Mali is on schedule and it’s time

to board.” I jumped from my seat grabbed my carry-on’s and ran to get in line. I was extremely excited Arriving in Mali was fabulous, until you went down the lovely escalator and saw what a sight baggage claim was. It was

Women dancing at the Festival au Désert.

complete and total chaos. Dannie found where we were suppose to pick up our bags, of course I was missing the bag with all of my clothes. I went to the claim office to notify someone about my bag.

The office was outside and the line was what appeared to be two miles long. Dannie and Lola where talking to the little girl sitting on the bench on the side, I stood there waiting. It was hot and humid my skin was damp and clammy, my hair frizzed, and I was sweating in every way. It was finally my turn and the lady in charge didn’t speak English.

She talked to fast I could barely understand. At this point Lola grew tired at this point and requested someone who spoke English. A short little man in what looked like an India Jones outfit marched up to me.

30

“What is your problem?” he said sharply “Her bags are lost duh why else would we be here!” exclaimed Lola “Let me see you id and your passport.” said the little man “What color is your bag? Is it a large suitcase? Are you sure you didn’t find it?” he asked After playing 20 questions, he took down my information and told me he would send it to my hotel. I hailed us a cab so we could finally go and rest. The cab driver nearly killed us. I believe we would have been safer walking.

It’s festival day and I was dressed in a traditional printed tunic dress with a hand braided belt and a matching turban. I made sure I packed my festival clothes in my carry-ons. On the way to the festival we met a lady, she said the village called her “Mama Kawahfi.” Mama Kawahfi was a feisty upbeat woman; she invited us to her home to meet her family because she had never seen western women quite like us. We politely declined her offer.

“You are not suppose to decline and invitation to someone’s home, I guess that’s just how the western world works.” She said I can’t believe we really offended her. What does she mean by how the western world works?

See: Festival au Désert pg. 32 .

Moloko Strathavon Hotel

Luxury Hotels in South Africa

31 N. Broussard

Festival au Désert: "om pg. 30.

The sand in the dusty desert filled my shoes as I walked. The beat of the drums, the dancers, the steady beat from people clapping, it was amazing. The aroma of the different foods filled the air. I met a little boy named Giongi he was playing the congas, he spoke to me. He told me about the different rhythms of the drum and why he enjoys the festival. Giongi’s sisters Kwanza and Oranda were dancers; they were beautiful they moved quickly, but gracefully. The rhythms of the congas, the steady beat of the base drums were moving. Everyone was happy and enjoying the company of one another.

The last day of the festival was supposed to be the best day of the

entire festival, but instead there was a sand storm and it was canceled. Dannie, Lola, and I sat in our hotel room looking like sad little puppies. I got the great idea to explore Mali and learn more about it. It was interesting to explore villages, meet new people, and learn the way of the land. The girls and I visited a little orphanage in a small village of Ogwanfa; it was a small little place. It appeared to be run down at the first glance, but it was filled with spirit. The people welcomed us in as if we belonged there. I soon realized that this is the village where Mama Kawahfi lived. We went to visit her and apologize for offending her. She welcomed us and told us it was ok and not to worry. She showed us the view of Mali through her eyes.

My last day in Mali was bitter sweet, I loved it there but I loved my New York more. Dannie, Lola, and I sat on the balcony of our hotel and talked about all of the wonderful things we had learned while being her. Dannie learned tribal dances, Lola learned the rhythms of the drums, I learned what made the whole place so special. I was an experience I will never forget. Maybe one-day years from now I could come back for the Festival au Désert, visit Mama Kawahfi, and relive my whole experience. Being here taught me many lessons; the most important was learning that life exists beyond Ti m e S q u a r e . I t ’s n o t t h e appearance that matters but the souls of the people. ***

MOMBASA CARNIVAL Breaking Out of My Shell

by Nick Broussard A b a s i . A b a s i w a s a n outspoken, friendly man. He spoke broken English with his native language being Swahili, it was deJiantly a challenge to comprehend.

He loaded my g fire. al blowin iv n r a C bags into his forest green, asa the Momb A man at 1981 Volkswagen rabbit. We

crossed a bridge bringing us My Jlight landed at 3 in the onto the island of Mombasa. It morning at Moi International was about a 20 minute car ride airport in Mombasa, Kenya. I to my hotel. During those 20 spotted a sign that read minutes he told me about “NICOLAS,” it was not hard Mombasa’s rich history and since, besides our Jlight, he the Carnival, which is why I was the only one there. The was in town. After he man that was holding it was unloaded my luggage at the around 6’5 and was named 32

Serena Hotel, he bid me farewell and left.

I checked in at the Serova Whitesands, and in less then 10 minutes I was laying on my bed in room 128. I was suffering from jet lag after my 17 hour Jlight. Who would have thought me, the 19 year old college sophomore at the University of Georgia, would g e t t h e c h a n c e t o v i s i t Mombasa. The only time I had ever heard about Mombasa was three months before I found out that I would be traveling to Kenya. My parents decided that I needed to get See: Mombasa Carnival pg. 35 .

Jazz Fest: "om pg. 18.

pattern. This is why I paid for this room the view is wonderful.

I decide to go downstairs to talk to to Okonkwo about places to go and see. I start talking to Okonkwo and he invites me to go to the St. Louis Jazz Festival. He tells me that at least 30 new different groups preform every year. People who have preformed there were Herbie Hancock, Ranely Weston, and Joe Zainul. Since it is night I am just going to go to a restaurant down the street and get a good night sleep because I have a big day ahead of me tomorrow.

I have to wake up at 7:00 A.M. I did not get enough sleep because of the time difference.

Okonkwo is waiting downstairs for me. I walk outside and it is burning hot the sun beating down with no clouds in the air; it makes it hotter than ever. As we are approaching I can hear the music and drum beating. I realize this very much like the Jazz Festival in New Orleans, except a little bit hotter.

There are booths of food, music playing, and tribal dancing all around me. Okonkwo leads me to the tribal dancing. I have never understood how the tribal people wear the big costumes

H S E R F E R

when it is so hot outside.

Okonkwo said he would be right back and for me to stay right there. I waited and listened to the mixture of tribal and jazz music. Then Okonkwo came back in one of the big feathery tribal outJits. I am laughing so hard, for I am about to pee on myself.

“Would you like to try one on?” says Okonkwo

“Why not?” I am trying on the outJit it is so hot but

beautiful. The feathers are l u x u r i o u s l i k e f r o m a peacock.The bright sequins glimmering in the sun. You could see me a mile away with all the bright colors. Now it is time to step into reality, it is really hot. I am not able to withstand heat very well so I know this cannot turnout well, but I just go with the Jlow and put a smile on my face. Okonkwo and his friends are all waiting for me to come

!

F L E S R U YO A. Zaheri

33

out so they can see. They said they would teach me the dance that everyone at the festival was preforming soon.

I am no a good dancer at all, so I know this will not go over well. The dance is very hard w i t h a l l t h e d a n c i n g a n d chanting. I am deJinetely the odd person out for being from America and being white. It is now time to preform I am all out of water, sweating, and don’t really know the dance moves.

Okonkwo invited me to do the dance with them. As we start the dance it is not so bad. Then I start to get a little dizzy, the world starts spinning and I feel like I am trying to balance on my feet. The corner of my eyes start to turn black and I blackout. The next thing I know is that I am on t h e g r o u n d w i t h p e o p l e surrounding me.

“ W h a t h a p p e n e d ? ” I asked

“You passed out and we could not Jinish the dance because you were in the middle.”

Okonkwo says. I ruined the dance that many people had been preparing for for their whole lives that can only be preformed once a year. All I see are angry faces staring at me. I need to get out of here right now.

As I walk into the hotel, Okonkwo is already there-­‐. He doesn’t want to talk to me,so he just tries to look really busy. The trip that was supposed to be really fun and educational, but this was not the case. Although it may not be educational but I learned not to step into things to fast, that I am not a very good dancer, and that I don’t stand the heat very well. ***

6 Must Do Activities in Africa

1. Visit victoria Falls in Zimbabwe- Enjoy a multitude of thrill seeking adventures.

2. Go on a safari- See wild animals in their natural habitats.

3. Climb Mountain Kilimanjaro- If you are a skilled climber, visit tanzania and tackle Kilimanjaro.

4. Wander the Rainforest- Take a trip to Madagascar and admire the unique animals.

5. Scuba dive in Mozambique- Explore some of the worlds clearest waters.

6. Go on a cruise on the Nile- See ancient ruins and mountains on the coast of Egypt

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“So I take it you have been here a few times” out in “Every night.” the world and take a break from “What keeps you coming college. They booked a round trip back?” and left the rest to me. My “Good food, great music” parents had read a book that “ Wo w s o y o u a r e q u i t e took place in Mombasa, and familiar.”

Jigured that it would be a good “They like family here, since place for their 19 year old son to Kesi dies they take me in.” go.

“Who is Kesi?”

T h e y b o o k e d m e i n “My bride.”

N ove m b e r wh e n t h e festival takes place. I would be staying four days, three nights. The concept of going to Africa was scary, I hadn’t even left the south and all of a sudden I am going to Africa. After a solid Jive hour sleep, I walked to the resort restaurant and had a cup of coffee, a long day awaited. I called a taxi and headed to Old Town, a s y o u m i g h t h a v e “I’m sorry to hear that” guessed it is pretty old. Old He changed the subject, Town has a deep religious and and we started talking about cultural history. There are many cultural inJluences in the town soccer and drank elephant beer. but the main one is the Arabian We left at a quarter till midnight. inJluence. Two hours later I Sadly that would be he last time I decided I needed to get a bite to saw Abasi on my trip. I fell eat. I waved a cab. It was a asleep quick on my comfortable familiar car; I heard the familiar queen size bed. On my second to putting of the ’81 rabbit. It was last day, I walked to Moi Avenue.

It was about a ten minute walk.

Abasi.

He took me to restaurant Moi Avenue was where the at the hotel. On the way back I Carnival was taking place. There talked to my new friend and were two parades that rode invited him to dinner with me. At down Moi Avenue. With the tribal nine o’clock he picked me up, and music blaring, and the brightly we headed to his favorite colored outJits it’s needless to say restaurant, Bella Vista. When we my senses were overwhelmed. arrived, it was apparent he came The Jire limbo is notoriously here often. He was on a Jirst known for the Mombasa Carnival. name bases with the whole staff They had called me over to attempt the limbo. and the band.

The limbo stick was up to my neck, pretty easy. The Jire Mombasa Carnival: "om pg. 32.

35

limbo sounds intimidating, but the Jire is on the edges of the limbo stick. As I began to bend back words I could already feel the heat. I began to perspire profusely. It was hard to believe that I, Nick Broussard, who hadn’t even left the south in my life was in Africa. Now I was confronted with a tribal tradition.

I was already scared to even be in Africa, with all the stories of danger and murder; it was safe to say I was petriJied.

As I eased my way under the burning stick, the sweat Jlowed. Before I Knew it I was starring at the Jlames from below, this was the scariest part of the limbo, and my life. I inched my way farther and I was done, and what seemed like an eternity, lasted lest than a minute.

I had overcome my biggest fear. When I passed under the Jlames, I u n d e r s t o o d . C o m i n g f r o m Georgia, I didn’t know what the world was like, what other cultures were like. The only knowledge I had of Africa was from the several etiquette books I read. However something about the beating of the drums, the cheering, the Jlames, and the vibrant colors, opened my mind.

I walked back to the hotel feeling pride and accomplishment. The walk felt much longer than the ten minutes. As I walked, my mind raced. I unlocked my room and collapsed onto my bed.

Although it was only six I fell fast asleep without dinner.

I woke up at around ten the next morning. I got dressed and went on my balcony facing the Indian Ocean. ***

TIME

Zulu Civil War When: 1817-1819 Between: Zulu Kingdom and Ndwandwe tribe First Italo-Ethiopian War Where: South When: 1895-1896 Africa 1820 Between: Italy and Result: Zulu Ethiopia Where: Ethiopia Result: Ethiopian victory

Second Italo-Ethiopian War

1935- 1936 1900 When: Between: Italy and Ethiopia

Where: Ethiopia Result: Italian Arab-Israeli War victory When: 1948

1940Between: State of Israel and Coalition of Arab States Where: Israel Result: Israel won Algerian War When: 1950-1962 1950Between: France and Algeria Where: Algeria Result: Evian Accords, Algerian Independence, and Exodus of the Pleek-Noir

1960 Sand War When: 1963 Between: Algeria and Morocco Where: AlgerianMorocco border Result: closing of the border of the south of Figuig

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Eritrea-Ethiopian War

LINE

When: 1998-2000 Between: Eritrea and 1990 Ethiopia Where: Eritrea Result: Ethiopian military victory and Eritrean International Court victory

Mauritania- Senegal Border War 1980 When: 1989-1991 Between: Mauritania and Senegal Where: Mauritania Result: reopened border Uganda-Tanzania War and ended skirmishes

1978 When: 1978-1979

Ogaden War 1970

Between: Uganda and Tanzania Where: Uganda Result: Tanzanian Victory

When: 1977-1978 Between: Somalia and Ethiopia Where: Ethiopia Result: Soviet and Cuban Intervention and Somalia withdraws

South African Border War 1966 When: 1966-1989 Between: South Africa and UNITA Where: Southwest Africa Result: withdrawal of all Shifta War foreign forces and Namibian Independence When: 1963-1966 Between: Somalia and Northern Frontier District Where: Kenya Result: Cease-fire

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39 C.Harris