African Voice - ISSUE 469

Friday, 8 February 2013 – Thursday, 14 February 2013

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ISSUE 469

SINCE 2001

B R I TA I N ’ S N O . 1 A F R I C A N N E W S PA P E R

£1.00

Nigeria Unveils Plans For Centenary Celebrations

Tayo Situ Foundation’s patron Prem Goyal receives OBE

SEE PAGE 7

SEE PAGE 5

Drug dealer jailed for 13 years SEE PAGE 14

Africans pay most to send money home Providers of remittance services to Africa pocketed $7bn last year

By Alan Oakley

According to figures released by World Bank, in the year to November 2012 alone, 30 million African migrants sent close to US$60 billion (£38 billion) in remittances; and paid more for the privilege than any other migrant group. Sub-Saharan Africa is the most expensive region to send money to, with average remittance costs based on the cost to send US$200 reaching 12.4 per cent in 2012. The average cost of sending money to Africa, again based on the cost to send $200, is almost 12 per cent higher than the global average and almost double the cost of sending money to South Asia.

The World Bank is aiming to bring down the cost of sending remittances worldwide to an average 5 per cent by 2014,

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Nigerian Minister Attends Education World Forum in UK Centre: Prof Rugayyatu Rufai, the Education Minister, second right, His Excellency, Dr. Dalhatu Sarki Tafida, OFR, CFR, High Commissioner of Nigeria to the UK, From left: Prince Tajudeen. Adeniyi Minister/Special Assistant to the HC, Prof. Sagir, SA to the Minister and extreme right: Dr. Mac John Nwaobila, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education during a courtesy visit after the Global Summit for Education Ministers 2013 in London - Theme: “Policy-Making for Quantity, Quality and Impact”.

Photos: Bukola Grace Odusina

Each year, millions of migrants leave their homes and families behind to make a living overseas. And every year, these migrants send billions of dollars, spending further millions on remittance fees in the process, home to their loved ones, who often depend on this money for their survival, health, education and livelihood.

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Have You News Got News Africans pay most to send money home For Us Continued from front page

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Overseas students who want to study in UK on the rise New figures released by UCAS show the UK remains a popular destination for international students.

The number of students from outside the EU who want to come to the UK to study in 2012/13 has risen by 9.6 per cent year on year according to UCAS(Opens in a new window). There has also been increases in the number of Chinese and Indian students applying for courses at British universities and colleges.

Immigration Minister Mark Harper said: ‘The increase in non-EEA university student applications is further proof that the UK remains open to the brightest and the best international students.

‘In particular, numbers from India and China have seen big increases. This shows that, despite stories to the contrary, students continue to want to come to the UK to study at our world class universities.

‘We have tackled abuse of the student route head on without affecting genuine students. By protecting the reputation of the British education system we will be able to compete in a global race.’

The government has made sweeping reforms to the student immigration system to crack down on visa abuse but continue to encourage the brightest and the best to apply.

Publisher and Editor-In-Chief Mike Abiola Editorial Board Adviser Dr Ola Ogunyemi News Editor Emmanuel Urhiofe Sub Editor Alan Oakley Sports Editor Abiodun Teriba Assist. Sports Editor Olubunmi Omoogun Arts Editor Golda John Columnists Michael Adekoya Rasheed Ogunlaru Photo Journalist Isaac Adegbite Graphic Designer Alvin Brown Legal Adviser Godwin Okri London Office: Unit 7 Holles House Overton Road London SW9 7AP

Tel: 020 7274 3933

Email: africanvoicenews@gmail.com

African Voice is published by African Voice UK.

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thereby putting billions of dollars back into the pockets of poor families, rather than into the coffers of already rich banks. Bringing remittance prices down to 5 per cent from the current 12.4 percent average cost would put US$4 billion more in the pockets of Africa’s migrants and their families “Remittances play a critical role in helping households address immediate needs and also invest in the future, so bringing down remittance prices will have a significant impact on poverty,” director of the World Bank’s Africa Region and Financial Inclusion and Infrastructure Global P r a c tice, Gaiv Tata, said.

Remittance prices are even higher between African nations. South Africa, Tanzania, and Ghana are the most expensive countries in Africa from which to send money elsewhere within the continent, with prices averaging 20.7 per cent, 19.7 per cent, and 19.0 per cent respectively. There are several factors driving this premium, including limited competition in the market for cross-border payments. According to Massimo Cirasino, Manager of the World Bank’s Financial Infrastructure and Remittances Service Line, competition and transparency are key. “Gov-

ernments should implement policies to open the remittances market up to competition,” he explains, adding: “Increased competition, as well as better informed consumers, can help bring down remittance prices.”

The World Bank manages a database, Send Money Africa, which exists to increase transparency in the market and provide migrants with complete and reliable information on all the components of the transaction. Currently, Send Money Africa finds that banks, which are the most expensive remittance service providers, are often the only channel available to African migrants. A regulatory environment that encourages competition among remittance service providers not only gives migrants more choices, it can also help bring down prices. Migrants can also benefit from more transparent information on remittance services because it gives them the resources they need to make informed decisions.

The Bank’s November 2012 study says remittances to sub-Saharan Africa will grow by zero per cent in 2012, when remittances grew by 6.8 per cent. The upward trend has been reported since 2009. The region will receive US$31 billion (£20 billion) in remittances with Nigeria receiving the largest amount of money in absolute terms while Liberia and Lesotho lead in remittances as a share of their GDP. The Bank’s data indicates that the slowdown is not unique to sub-Saharan Africa.

Growth in remittances to developing nations will slow down to 6.5 per cent against 11.7 percent last year.

Key findings in the Send Money Africa report are: • The average total cost of sending money to Africa in Q4 2012 was 11.89 per cent; the second highest since the SMA database was launched in Q3 2011.

• The cost of sending money to Africa in Q4 2012 was nearly three percentage points more expensive than the global average cost for the same period, which measured at 8.96 per cent, according to Remittance Prices Worldwide (see http://remittanceprices. worldbank.org).

• The 10 most expensive corridors were all intra-Africa; with the top five all originating in South Africa.

• The most expensive sending markets of those surveyed are Tanzania, South Africa, and Ghana. The cheapest sending markets are those in the Gulf – UAE, followed by Saudi Arabia, and Spain.

• The most expensive countries to send money to are those receiving mainly from other African countries – namely Malawi, Botswana, and Mozambique. The cheapest market to send money to is Egypt – surveyed only in the Gulf countries in the sample. Egypt is followed by Liberia and Somalia.

• Commercial banks continue to be the most expensive Remittance Service Provider (RSP) type.

• Bank account services are the most expensive method of remittance transfer.

British forces to support military training mission to Mali The UK is to deploy about 330 military personnel to Mali. The 330 military personnel comprise 200 soldiers going to West African nations, 40 military advisers to Mali, and 90 support crew for a C-17 transport aircraft and a Sentinel R1 surveillance plane. None will have a combat role.

Some of 330 military personnel from the UK is to support the EU military training mission to Mali by providing up to 40 British personnel either in a headquarters or training team role.

Mr Hammond also said that the UK will offer £5 million for 2 new UN funds to support the strengthening of security in Mali. £3 million of this would be directed to the African-led intervention force (AFISMA) and £2 million to activity in Mali that would facilitate and support political processes for building stability.

He confirmed that the UK is also prepared to offer up to 200 personnel to provide training to troops from Anglophone West African countries contributing to AFISMA, though the numbers required will be dependent upon the requirements of the AFISMA-con-

British military personnel tributing nations.

In addition, the UK has deployed a small number of advisers to Anglophone West African countries who will contribute to the AFISMA mission to assess their needs and to gain situational awareness.

The UK will continue to provide 1 C-17 transport plane in support of France for a further 3 months.

There are currently around 20 people deployed in Bamako supporting liaison with French forces and, following a French request for additional surveillance support, the UK has deployed a Sentinel R1 aircraft to Dakar, Senegal, with supporting ground crew and technical support amounting to around 70 people.

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Friday, 8 February 2013 – Thursday, 14 February 2013

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Friday, 8 February 2013 – Thursday, 14 February 2013

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Opinion Africa is rising – an opinion piece By President Jacob Zuma

T

he world gathered in Davos, Switzerland this past week, for the World Economic Forum 2013 annual meeting.

South Africa was well-represented at the Forum by government and the private sector, and together we set out to market our beautiful country which has so many positive attributes.

While the audiences were warmly receptive to our message, we could not help but notice the subconscious prejudice against our beautiful continent, although this may have been unintended.

For example, the first session I participated in, was a panel discussion entitled; “De-risking Africa; What are African leaders doing to mitigate investment risks?”

This means Africa is still considered as an investment risk!

Fortunately fellow panellists and the audience agreed that viewing Africa as a risk was an erroneous exaggeration. Doing business can be a risk in any part of the world as recent developments in the developed North have indicated.

The reality is that Africa is becoming a remarkable success story. In 2010, six of the world’s ten fastest growing economies were in Africa, and seven African countries are expected to be in the top 10 over the next five years.

Africa’s output is expected to expand by 50% by 2015. Africa’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita stood at US$1,630 in 2010. It is expected to increase to US$2,200 by 2015, at a real annual growth rate of 5.7%, resulting in a 30% rise in the continent’s spending power.

Africa’s consumer sectors - goods, telecom and banking, amongst others present the largest opportunity and are already growing two to three times faster than those countries belonging to the Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

The rate of return on foreign investment in Africa is higher than in any other region in the world. This is not surprising given the competitive edge of the continent.

Africa’s advantages include its extraordinary mineral wealth and agricultural potential. It has a young working population and a growing middle class with considerable and growing purchasing power.

Almost each African country has been working hard, introducing wide-ranging measures that improve the climate for investment - both foreign and domestic.

Currently we encourage foreign investment in the massive infrastructure programme that we have embarked upon in Africa.

This includes the programme for Infra4

South Africa’s president Jacob Zuma structure Development in Africa and the Presidential Infrastructure Champions Initiative, with the flagship programme being the North-South Corridor, which South Africa has the honour to champion.

Domestically in South Africa, we have an infrastructure programme in place that will cost at least four trillion rand in the next 15 years. The continent is growing and is on the move.

Under the auspices of the African Union we have launched an ambitious programme towards continental integration.

As a first step, we have made considerable progress in the Tripartite Initiative that draws together countries of Eastern and Southern Africa.

By 2015 we expect to establish a free trade area amongst these countries, combining the markets of 26 countries with a population of nearly 600 million people and a combined GDP of US$1 trillion.

Importantly, this will form the basis for an Africa-wide Free Trade Area, which could create a single market of US$2.6 trillion.

It is important to emphasise that the socalled “risks” in investing Africa are often more perception than reality.

When Moody’s analysed the performance of 20 years of project finance loans, accounting for about 45 percent of all projects financed since 1983, they found

that only one project out of 92 in Africa had defaulted.

Estimates from the African Development Bank suggest that companies participating in infrastructure investments in Africa can earn commercial rates of return from 5 to 10 percent in the water sector, 17 to 25 percent in the power sector and 25 to 30 percent in telecoms. Across sectors, infrastructure investments average returns of between 15 and 20 percent.

In fact, returns on foreign investment in African infrastructure are higher than in any other developing region. African independent power projects, for example, have earned their investors internal rates of return of up to 25 percent, compared with 15 percent in Latin America and 12 percent in Eastern Europe.

There is a lot more that is happening in the continent, for example the many conflict resolution and peacemaking missions.

Africa must systematically share its positive stories and deal with these negative perceptions and stereotyping.

Sadly, in many of the foreign forums that we participate in, some of the people who are most critical and negative about Africa, at times, tend to be Africans. North Americans or Europeans are battling economically currently but when their nationals speak anywhere in the world, they talk positively in a manner

that says the problems are being solved.

We definitely need a new mindset in Africa and also in South Africa, a renewed patriotism and love of the continent and its people. I agreed to a suggestion by the South African business delegation at a meeting with South African business in Davos, that there should be a government-business lekgotla soon to tackle all issues relating to promoting economic development. At this session we will be able to work out a programme of the implementation of the National Development Plan and discuss other major programmes of government.

The meeting will also assist to iron out any possible misconceptions. Our country needs such an intensive dialogue.

From 26 to 28 January, we are gathered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia for the 20th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union. The summit, taking place in the 50th year of the Organisation for African Unity, provides an opportunity to re-assert Africa’s position in the world.

We are proud of being part of this continent and will continue playing our role in its development and positioning in world affairs.

From Davos to Addis Ababa, we communicate one message, that Africa is rising and is a continent of hope. Africa has a bright future.

Friday, 8 February 2013 – Thursday, 14 February 2013

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News

UK woeful asylum support pushes children into destitution

By Milton Tella Alarmingly low levels of asylum support are forcing thousands of children and their families seeking safety in the UK into severe poverty, putting babies’ and mothers’ lives at risk, a parliamentary inquiry reveals.

The cross-party parliamentary inquiry into asylum support for children and young people, led by former children’s minister Sarah Teather MP, launches its report into how asylum-seeking children and families are supported by the Home Office.

The panel, supported by The Children’s Society, found widespread examples of families on levels of support far below mainstream benefits, leaving them barely able to put food on the table or buy a winter coat.

Those on the lowest rate of support only receive their allowance on a card, meaning they get no cash, effectively leaving them stranded - unable even to take the bus to the doctor’s or take their children to school.

The inquiry heard how children and families are being forced to live in cramped, crowded, dirty and unsafe accommodation in areas where they are subjected to racial abuse.

Evidence revealed how some families do not have any privacy, with housing providers entering their homes unannounced, leaving

single mothers with children feeling vulnerable and frightened. Families said they were frequently moved with no consideration for their needs – often at short notice – wrenching children from school and breaking links with vital support networks.

Sarah Teather MP said: ‘Woeful levels of support for asylum seekers are pushing children into severe poverty and are far below what they need to have a decent life. The evidence we have heard is shocking and appalling. It is an affront to this country’s proud tradition of giving sanctuary to those fleeing danger and violence. We have to ask ourselves, what sort of country do we want to be? One that protects vulnerable children, or one that allows them to go destitute, scared and hungry?’

Matthew Reed, Chief Executive of The Children’s Society said: ‘Thousands of children and families are being abandoned and literally left destitute because the system is failing them. Children and their families are being forced to live in appalling conditions that are unacceptable by anybody’s standards. No child, no matter who they are or where they’re from, should be treated with such a complete lack of human dignity’.

Matthew Reed, Chief Executive of The Children’s Society

Recommendations

Among its recommendations the report urges the government to: • Make sure asylum support for all children is in line with mainstream benefits

• Abolish the cashless system (‘Section 4’) immediately • Allow parents to work so they can provide for their families and prevent them from being pushed into destitution.

Tayo Situ Foundation’s patron Prem Goyal receives OBE

Prem receiving his OBE from Prince Charles

UK ethnic minorities featured prominently among the last recipients of the Queen’s honours list presented by Prince of Wales at the Buckingham Palace recently.

Mr Prem Goyal, one of the patrons of Tayo Situ Foundation was awarded an OBE in the Queen’s birthday honours list last summer for services to the economy and promoting charitable giving.

The entrepreneur is an active supporter of several local charities including the Tayo Situ Foundation and many others.

Prem said: “All my efforts since moving to the UK have been focused on creating jobs and uplifting our communities. For that to be acknowledged like this, well that’s just fantastic. I only want to keep doing more.”

He broke with tradition in launching a public appeal for nominations for a ‘community star’ from Southwark to accompany

him to the palace for the investiture.

“It was with the support of the community I got this award, so I really wanted to create a memorable experience for someone doing good work locally,” said Mr Goyal.

Accompanying Prem a Magistrate and school governor Sirajul Islam said, “It was a good experience to go inside Buckingham Palace, l was very proud of what Prem’s achieved.”

Prem said, “I was thrilled to collect my OBE from Prince Charles at Buckingham Palace.

What made it extra special though was getting a hug from Tessa Jowell, who was there picking up her DBE for political and charitable service. She’s a real inspiration and I’m very pleased for her.

Being inside the Palace, surrounded by symbols of the country’s history, customs and culture, I felt deeply proud to be citi-

Prem Goyal left and Sirajul Islam zen of this land. One-by-one they came up to receive their awards for good deeds done; it was very clear how many talented and outstanding people we have in the UK. Witnessing the ceremony and speaking to other recipients, I’m confident the country’s best days are still yet to come.

As one of my guests I invited Sirajul Islam, a fellow Southwark resident. However, unusually for a guest at an investiture, we’d never met each other before. This was because last year I put out an appeal to find someone doing good work in the community who would like a chance to experience a ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

Sirajul is a magistrate and a school governor at Charlotte Sharman Primary School in Elephant & Castle. I was glad when he said he got a lot out of the experience and gained from seeing inside the Palace.

Since moving to the UK I’ve been committed to creating jobs and uplifting communities. Receiving this honour has strengthened my resolve to make a difference, especially in my own community in Southwark. With our collective efforts, I believe we can come together and ensure every young person can achieve their full potential and everyone can live in a decent home”.

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Friday, 8 February 2013 – Thursday, 14 February 2013

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News

Entrepreneur route to UK narrows

By Alan Oakley

Immigration minister Mark Harper has issued a parliamentary statement announcing a tightening of the rules relating to entrepreneurs who wish to settle in Britain.

Offering assurances that legitimate applicants would not be deterred, Mr Harper wants a “meaningful assessment of the credibility” of immigrants claiming to be entrepreneurs to be introduced.

“We will protect genuine entrepreneurs and continue to encourage them to invest in the UK where they will be made welcome,” he said.

Fake businesses were being created and funds recycled to provide evidence of entrepreneurial activity, he said.

The rules on who is allowed to live in the UK as an investor or an entrepre-

neur were changed in April 2011.

“These changes have successfully brought about a steady increase in applications from overseas. However, it is clear that following our tightening of other migration routes, the entrepreneur route is now being targeted by applicants seeking to abuse the immigration rules,” the immigration minister said, adding: “There is strong evidence that funds to prove eligibility are being recycled amongst different applicants and that artificial businesses are being created. We need to tighten the current rules to allow for a meaningful assessment of the credibility of an applicant for this route.”

Under the new rules, which come in to effect on January 31, the UK Border Agency would be able to “test the credibility of suspicious applicants” in future, he said.

Immigration minister Mark Harper

Poorest households face £600 Council Tax hike

By Alan Oakley

Changes to the Council Tax Benefit system in April mean that millions of England’s poorest households could see a steep increase in their council tax bills.

Three in four local authorities in England plan to put up council tax for the poorest households, often by hundreds of pounds, according to independent research by the Resolution Foundation.

From April local authorities in England will have to take control of a previously national scheme of subsidies for the hardest up families, whilst funding to manage the scheme will be cut by 10 per cent. Some councils plan to charge families an extra 20 per cent even though many of the households affected contain no working adults or occupants working on the minimum wage.

Some bills will rise by more than £600 a year at a time when many families are facing a major squeeze because of the slow economic recovery. A single parent, working part-time on minimum wage and currently paying £173 a year for a modest home, will become liable for up to an extra £577 a year.

If they live in a bigger home, their bill will rise by more than £600. Councils which choose not to trim back the discounts have been ordered to find the ten per cent savings from other services.

Critics point out the changes come at the same time that millionaires get a ‘huge tax cut’.

Local government minister Brandon Lewis said the reforms would cut fraud and get people into work.

“We are ending the ‘something for nothing’ culture,” he said, adding: “Spending on council tax benefit doubled under the last administration and welfare reform is vital to tackle the budget deficit we have inherited.

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“Under the last administration, more taxpayers’ money was being spent on benefits than on defence, education and health combined.

“Under the last government, council tax bills doubled. The coalition Government has worked with councils to freeze council tax for two years, with a further freeze offered for this year.

“We are cutting council tax in real terms for hard-working families and pensioners, and we are on the side of people who work hard and want to get on.”

Researchers warned a variation in rates of council tax support could undermine the new universal credit, which is meant to simplify the welfare system and make it pay to work.

The report’s author, Matthew Pennycook, said: “The axing of Council Tax Benefit has major implications for Universal Credit, which is supposed to be all about simplifying welfare and giving people a stronger incentive to work.

“These changes undermine both goals.

There will now be a highly-complex and confusing patchwork of local support while the low-paid will keep even less of an extra pound in earnings than the Government has claimed.”

Gavin Kelly, chief executive of the foundation, said: “Millions of England’s poorest households - both in and out of work - are already very close to the edge given falling wages, tax credits and benefits.

“Very few of those currently exempt from paying the full rate of council tax are expecting a large new bill to drop onto their doormat this spring. When it does, they are going to find it hard to cope.

“The new system will result in hardpressed councils spending scarce resources chasing some of the poorest people in the country for non-payment.”

Friday, 8 February 2013 – Thursday, 14 February 2013

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Nigeria High Commission, UK Calls on all Nigerians worldwide to join in the Nigeria Centenary celebration As President Jonathan inaugurates the nation’s centenary anniversary celebration.

Go to www.nigeriacentenary.com.ng for details

Amalgamation of 1914 was not a mistake but an act of God. “The amalgamation created a unique entity of the globe called Nigeria; a beautiful country richly blessed and which had turned out innovative people across the world.’’

“Nigeria is blessed with unique collection of people specially created by God.’’ “The one Nigeria consciousness which has kept the nation together must be safeguarded.’’

“The unity of Nigeria is indivisible and non-negotiable, we must remain the forward looking people that we are.

I see a united, powerful and prosperous nation that will make the generation yet unborn very proud. Arise, we shall and prosper we will.’’

Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan GCFR, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

His Excellency, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan GCFR

Dr. Dalhatu Sarki Tafida OFR, CFR High Commissioner of Nigeria to the United Kingdom 7

Friday, 8 February 2013 – Thursday, 14 February 2013

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World Bank unveils new strategy to support Malawi

Sandra Bloemenkamp • World Bank The World Bank Group has released its new Country Assistance Strategy (CAS) to support Malawi’s effort to diversify the economy and make it more competitive and resilient to shocks. The four-year CAS, which was discussed by the Bank Board of Executive Directors today, will cover the 2013 to 2017 financial years, and proposes an indicative envelop of US$ 695 million.

The CAS is aligned with the Second Malawi Growth and Development Strategy (MGDS II, 2011–2016) adopted in April 2012. It takes account of the new government’s priorities of economic diversification, reducing vulnerability and improving infrastructure, to achieve sustained growth as outlined in its Economic Recovery Plan (ERP).

“Through this new Country Assistance Strategy, the World Bank Group is committed to continue to help Malawi accelerate progress towards poverty reduction and successful economic transformation. The total Bank commitment to Malawi currently stands at close to US$1 billion and will work closely with the Government and other stakeholders in ensuring strong development results are achieved through this new partnership” says Sandra Bloemenkamp, Country Manager for Malawi and Team Leader for the CAS. The new CAS has three thematic areas to support the government of Malawi achieve the goals of its development strategy. The first theme promotes sustainable, diversified, and inclusive growth as a way of accelerating progress in reducing poverty. This will be done by helping the country achieve and maintain macroeconomic stability, invest in key infrastructure, improve the business environment, to promote competitiveness and

support regional integration.

“Economic transformation and diversification will be key in reducing the country’s vulnerability to shocks. In order to make our growth more inclusive we need to expand our sources of growth as well as increase our productivity and the participation of our people in this process,” says Honourable Ken Lipenga, Malawi’s Minister of Finance.

“This CAS is therefore very responsive and supportive of our country’s needs and programs to improve the lives of Malawians,” Lipenga adds.

The second theme is on enhancing human capital and reducing vulnerabilities. This is designed to accelerate progress towards the Millennium Development Goals and enhancing Malawi’s human resources. It will support delivery of social services such as education, water and sanitation, HIV/AIDS, and nutrition. It will also support efforts in climate change mitigation and adaptation, and natural resource and environmental management.

Mainstreaming governance for enhanced development effectiveness is the third theme. This theme comprises a cross-cutting effort to help government strengthen its systems, while also engaging citizens play their oversight role more effectively.

World Bank Group support will cover both investment lending and technical as-

sistance and analytical work. The new CAS brings the Bank’s support and commitment to Malawi to about US$3billion since Malawi became a member of the Bank after independence. The new CAS will continue to support some already existing projects such as the Malawi Social Action Fund, Agriculture and Irrigation programs, investments in key infrastructure sectors such as Energy, Mining, and Water, Natural Resources Management, Education, HIV/Aids and Nutrition, and in Higher Education and Skills. Special attention will also be given to improve the public finance management systems, and improved public sector management and statistics.

The CAS acknowledges the considerable risks to successful attainment of the results targeted in the proposed program. These stem from the political environment for sustained commitment to the reform agenda, external and internal macroeconomic risks, weather-related shocks, risks from the lack of diversity of the economy, and risks arising from inadequate public sector management capacity and fiduciary and governance issues.“Effectively managing these risks will be important for Malawi to ensure optimum results from the World Bank Group support during the implementation of this new CAS” says Ms. Bloemenkamp.

IMF Executive Board approves U.S. $18.4 million for Mali The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) approved a disbursement of an amount equivalent to SDR 12 million (about US$18.4 million) for Mali under the Rapid Credit Facility (RCF) to support the authorities with policy advice and financial support to maintain macroeconomic stability and growth during the next twelve months, as part of a broad-based support by Mali’s development partners. The provides rapid concessional financial assistance with limited conditionality to low-income countries facing an urgent balance of payments need.

The Executive Board also noted the authorities’ cancellation of the previous arrangement under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF), which was approved in 2011 for the equivalent of SDR 30 million (then about US$46.3 million), which had been designed to cover 2012-14, but was derailed by the March 2012 coup d’état and its aftermath In November 2012, an IMF mission reached understandings ad referendum on the components of an economic program that could be supported by the Rapid Credit Facility.

The RCF will also pave the way for renewed donor support following the events of early 2012.

Following the Executive Board’s discussion, Mr. Min Zhu, Deputy Managing Director and Acting Chair, made the following statement: “Mali’s economy is traversing a particularly difficult period as a result of the 2011 drought, insurgent attacks in the north of the country and political instability in the wake

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of the military coup in March 2012.

Economic activity contracted by 1.5 percent in 2012, inflation was pushed up by escalating food prices, and a balance of payments deficit has emerged. Fiscal stress intensified as a result of weakening tax revenues, the suspension of donor budget support, and upward pressure on social and military spending. The government responded with fiscal austerity. The tight liquidity situation has led to the accumulation of arrears to external creditors in the amount of 0.5 percent of GDP. “The authorities’ 2013 program appropriately reflects near-term priorities. It aims to maintain macroeconomic and financial stability by keeping spending in line with available revenues and avoiding the emergence of new arrears.

“Steadfast implementation of tax policy, tax administration, cash flow management, and energy policy reforms will be essential to maintain macroeconomic stability. The ambitious tax revenue targets in 2013 will need to come from an increase in taxes on oil products and progress in tax administration through systematic cross-checking of information by the tax, customs, and procurement administrations. Prudent expenditure execution and tight cash management will be needed to meet the deficit target and avoid the accumulation of arrears. While electricity tariff adjustments are needed to bring the sector back to a sustainable path, a clear reform, a public communication strategy, and targeted measures to protect the poor will be essential to gain the population’s acceptance.

Friday, 8 February 2013 – Thursday, 14 February 2013

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Netherlands

Dutch Queen Beatrix set to abdicate Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands has announced plans to abdicate the nation’s throne, emulating her mother and paving the way for her son Crown Prince Willem Alexander to potentially become King Willem IV. “It is with the greatest of confidence, that I will hand over the throne on April 30 to my son, Willem Alexander, Prince of Orange,” Beatrix told national television, using the official title of the heir apparent.

The queen, who is to turn 75 on January 31, said her birthday and the 200-year anniversary of the monarchy in 2013 “were the reason for me to step down”.

“I’m standing down because public service is too heavy for me, because of the belief that responsibility for our country should be in the hands of a new generation,” she said.

Liberal Prime Minister Mark Rutte spoke immediately after the queen, saying: “She has always done her utmost for Dutch society, being visible and with enormous energy (..) She has grown into a Dutch icon.”

Paying homage to Willem Alexander, Rutte added: “He and Princess Maxima are fully prepared for the task. They will serve our country with devotion.”

Beatrix’s much-loved mother Juliana also abdicated, in 1980, when her daughter stepped into her shoes at age 42. Beatrix’s abdication ends more than 100 years of female reign on the Dutch throne. Willem

Alexander, 45, will become the first Dutch king since Willem III, who reigned until his death in 1890.

The announcement was “totally unexpected,” royal expert Reinildis van Ditzhuyzen told the NOS public broadcaster. “An abdication takes a lot of organisation,” Van Ditzhuyzen added.

State broadcaster NOS began broadcasting footage from significant moments during the queen’s reign soon after her speech was announced.

Beatrix chose to turn her palace into a “palace of work” in The Hague, the seat of government of the country with a strong work ethic. But when renovations were announced at Beatrix’s distinctive octagonalshaped Drankensteyn Castle southeast of Amsterdam in 2006, some saw a herald of her abdication.

Beatrix’s German-born husband prince Klaus died in 2002 aged 76. Dutch festivities during the coronation will be tinged by concerns for the health of Willem-Alexander’s younger brother Prince Friso, who has been in a coma since being hit by an avalanche in Austria in February 2012.

Contrary to her mother’s unobtrusive style of rule, Beatrix refused to be relegated to ribbon-cutting; changing the mode of address from “madam” to “majesty”, and transforming one of the royal palaces in The Hague into a working palace.

She received heads of state in her affable

Queen Beatrix with her son and successor Prince Willem Alexander

though formal manner and met weekly with successive prime ministers to discuss matters of government, earning the nickname “chief executive officer of the Netherlands”.

She also signed laws and played an important role in Dutch politics by appointing the so-called “formateur” who explores possibilities for coalition government after general elections. Last year’s elections in which Prime Minister Rutte was elected to head government for a second time, marked the first time she was not actively involved in the formateur’s appointment, marking a step back from active politics.

Future king Willem Alexander has worked

hard to polish his image since his beer-drinking student days when he was known as “Prince Pils”. The crown prince is a pilot and member of the International Olympic Committee and his image has improved since he married Argentine Maxima Zorreguieta in 2002. The vivacious Princess Maxima, 41, has won the hearts of the Dutch, despite her father’s past as an official of the Argentine junta in the 1970s. Maxima’s father was not allowed to attend his daughter’s wedding in the Netherlands, and her mother also stayed away in a show of solidarity.

Russia

Finland

Putin pressing ahead in dead defendant trial Boss fined for cancelling lesbian’s contract Moscow is attempting to prosecute a dead In Monday’s hearing, it was unclear who or

Johanna Korhonen had contract revoked

The chief executive of one of Finland’s largest media companies has been fined for discriminating on the grounds of sexual orientation, according to Pink News, Europe’s largest gay news service.

Helsinki Appeals Court ordered Kai Telanne, chief executive of Alma Media, to pay a combined total of nearly 20,000 euros (£17,070) in fines and legal fees on Monday (January 28).

The court heard that Mr Telanne hired experienced journalist Johanna Korhonen to edit the Lapin Kansa newspaper, but cancelled the contract before she started work.

Finnish broadcaster YLE, for whom Ms. Korhonen once worked as a talk show host, reports the move followed Mr Telanne’s realisation that Ms Korhonen’s registered partner is a woman who also happened to be politically active. Mr Telanne said in a statement that he is considering appealing the case at the country’s Supreme Court. He denied that the contract was annulled for the reasons claimed by Ms Korhonen. His company publishes more than 30 newspapers.

Gay couples in Finland have had the right to registered partnerships since 2002, although the country is yet to legalise same-sex marriage.

man in a case that has led to a ban on Russian orphans being adopted by Americans.

Efforts to put Sergei Magnitsky on trial posthumously stalled on Monday (January 28) when his legal team and his widow refused to participate.

Sergei Magnitsky died under mysterious circumstances three years ago whilst in jail for tax evasion. Officials said the 37 year-old’s cause of death was a heart attack. However, supporters insist he was jailed for investigating hundreds of millions of dollars possibly taken by the authorities in a fraudulent tax case, and that he was beaten and denied medical care. His body showed clear indications that he had been badly beaten during his year behind bars.

In December, United States Congress passed a law barring anyone linked to Mr. Magnitsky’s imprisonment or the initial fraud from entering the US. In retaliation, Russia’s Parliament prohibited Americans from adopting Russian orphans.

As expected, the empty-chair prosecution drew an immediate rebuke. Critics described it as an overzealous attempt to intimidate Mr. Magnitsky’s family members.

what, exactly, went on trial. Mr. Magnitsky’s co-defendant, William F. Browder, the manager of the Hermitage Capital hedge fund, has been barred from entering Russia since 2005, so he did not appear in court.

Judge Igor B. Alisov promptly postponed the trial because the defendants did not appear in the courtroom — as expected — but neither did lawyers representing their interests.

Posthumous criminal cases are rare in international practice, most often allowed only when relatives want to clear the name of a suspect, and rarely at the behest of the police, criminal law experts say. When a suspect dies, the question of guilt or innocence is usually rendered moot.

Judge Alisov ordered a delay of the start of the trial until February 18 so that the Moscow bar association could appoint public defenders for the dead man and his long-absent co-defendant.

In the past year, Russian courts have tried dozens of street protesters; members of a punk band, Pussy Riot, sending two of its members to prison for an anti-Putin performance in a prominent Moscow cathedral; and American singer Madonna for a performance in St. Petersburg

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Aregbesola explains allocation of budget to road construction The governor of Osun State, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has disclosed that his government allocated lion share of 2013 budget capital spending to transportation sub-sector because of the administration’s belief that it is a vital catalyst for economic and industrial development.

A total sum of N30.21 Billion or 25.38 per cent of the capital budget has been allocated to transport for the execution of the various projects in the sub-sector in 2013.

A statement by the Director, Bureau of Communications and Strategy, Mr. Semiu Okanlawon, quoted Governor Aregbesola as saying that in view of his government’s commitment to ensure that roads are in good condition throughout the State, a sum of N24.61billion out of N30.21 allocated to the sub-sector has been voted for road rehabilitation and construction alone in the 2013 budget.

The governor said that since the incep-

tion of his administration, construction and rehabilitation of inter and intra-city roads have remained one of its top priorities, saying government identifies road construction and maintenance as essential to achieving economic and sociopolitical end.

Aregbesola noted that in the current fiscal year, government will award new contracts which include the construction of roads, such as the East Bypass Road Osogbo (18 km), Iwo – Osogbo Road (58k), Gbongan – Osogbo Road (25k).

Others are ongoing rehabilitations of township roads across the state including, rehabilitation of township roads in the six (06) zones (83.66km); 21 roads in Osogbo (25. 35Km), 15 Ilesa Township Roads Rehabilitation (29.09km); Gbongan-Odeyinka-Orile-Owu-Araromi Road (44. 43km); Dualisation of Osogbo-Dagbolu International Market – Ikirun Junction/ Alamisi Market (9.52km). Culled from Nation Newspapers.

From left, Deputy Governor State of Osun, Mrs Titi-Laoye Tomori; Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola and Speaker, Osun House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Najeem Salaam, during the presentation of 2013 Budget to the House

Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola leading Walk-to-Live 7th edition held in Ikirun - 7km route Ada-

Igbajo-Ikirun

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Ogbeni at the graduation of 20,000 Osun Youth Empowerment Scheme O’YES.

Photos: Taofeeq Adejare

Governor State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (Right) exchanging pleasantries with Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka (left). With them is, Commissioner for Culture, Tourism and Home Affairs, Alhaji Sikiru Ayedun, during a Visit to the Governor at the Government House

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Sounds of Diaspora People of America

Return of The Artist Formerly Known as Forgotten

Reports are doing the celebrity gossip circuit that rapper Rick Ross was targeted in a drive-by shooting in the early hours of Monday (January 28).

Ross was riding with girlfriend Shateria L. Moragne-El in his Rolls Royce when an unidentified gunman opened fire at around 5.am. causing the Miami native to lose control of his car and crash into a building near an intersection in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

According to some reports, Ross’ car managed to avoid the gunfire although some witnesses reported hearing more than a dozen shots.

On Sunday Ross partied the night away with his crew, including DJ Khaled, Diddy

and French Montana, as he celebrated his 37th birthday at Club LIV in Miami. He later grabbed a meal with his girlfriend before getting back on the road. The shooting incident has been classified by local police as “an active and ongoing criminal investigation.”

In December, members of the street gang known as the Gangsta Disciples began posting online videos threatening to shut down the rapper’s out-of-town show dates. Ross cancelled the remaining dates on his MMG tour based on word that he might be a homicide target but he later brushed off those rumours, saying it was due to a promoter mishap.

Superbowl star suffers taint of cycling’s malaise

Michelle Williams on FELA and Beyonce-gate

Rehearsing for FELA in New York

Destiny’s Child’s Michelle Williams has been spotted singing and dancing during rehearsals for the touring company of ‘FELA!’ at the Pearl Studios in New York City.

She is playing the role of Sandra Isadore, who was Fela Kuti’s African-American lover. Maija Garcia, the tour director and choreographer, spoke of Michelle’s addition saying: “Sandra is our key for an American audience to look at Fela and understand a bit more where Fela may have been coming from. And an American audience can very much identify with Michelle Williams because she’s of our time. She really becomes a vehicle for people to learn about

Fela and for people to understand why Fela is relevant in the United States.”

Michelle will be starring alongside Adesola Osakalumiin (who plays Fela Kuti) during the 16-city run.

And she’s not too busy to defend her girl Beyoncé. During a recent promotional interview for the show, she was asked what she thought about Beyoncé-gate and the controversy surrounding her possible lipsyncing. She said: “It’s disappointing and saddening to me. It’s just shocking to me that it’s taken on this. I love her so much. I know what she possesses. That was such a big moment for her and I just wish people would just let it go and just continue to look for what she’s going to be bringing for ya’ll in the future.”

But when it came to rumours about her reuniting with Destiny’s Child at the Super Bowl, she wouldn’t answer the question directly. “I wish that I could say it’s possible. I wish that I could say and I know that you all showed some ‘Fela!’ rehearsals so that’s what I’ve been doing and what I’ve been focusing on.”

As we now know, Ms Williams was simply displaying professional coyness and she and Kelly Rowland did indeed join Beyoncé for the Super Bowl half-time extravaganza.

Ray Lewis’ called an end to his stellar career winning his second Superbowl on Sunday

In light of recent made-for-TV athlete confessions, it’s hard to take recently retired Baltimore Ravens future Hall of Fame linebacker Ray Lewis at his word.

In a story featured on SI.com, Sports Illustrated is reporting that Ray Lewis requested products (specifically, deer-antler spray which contains an NFL banned substance called IGF-1) from a small health supplements company based in Alabama.

Naturally, this story surfaced the morning of Super Bowl XLVII’s Media Day. When asked about the story, Lewis dismissed the report while team executives made interesting statements such as: “Ray has been randomly tested for banned substances and has never failed a test.”

(Kevin Byrne, vice president of communications for the Ravens).

Two problems with this statement. First, we’ve seen from the Lance Armstrong saga that never failing a test is not necessarily equivalent to never having used banned substances. Second, was Mr. Lewis tested since sustaining his triceps injury on October 14, 2012?

On the one hand, I couldn’t care less whether Ray Lewis used deer-antler spray to accelerate his recovery so that he could play a few final games before retirement.

And I’m not knowledgeable enough about IGF-1 to have an opinion regarding whether it should or should not be a banned substance.

On the other hand, there are two issues that are troubling about these developments regarding fairness in sport and truthfulness

as a role model.

Ray Lewis, coming off injury and at age 37, set the all-time record for most tackles in a post-season during Super Bowl XLVII, after missing nearly 2 months of action.

This smells of past scenarios where aging stars from another spoke (baseball’s Roger Clemens and Barry Bonds) found the fountain of youth late in their careers…many believe it was tainted or chemically enhanced youth.

If Lewis has been using IGF-1 over the last few months to recuperate, and if it is a banned substance (which it is), then he has cheated the system…and should not have ben allowed to compete in Super Bowl XLVII. Within the last month we have just witnessed what happens when high-profile athletes are less than truthful about their behaviour. In Lance Armstrong’s case, the consequences of dishonesty equate to hundreds of millions of dollars lost in future earnings streams and likely legal settlements.

I understand why Ray Lewis, if guilty of wrong-doing, would have delayed the truth until after Super Bowl XLVII. He wanted to play in the game, he wanted to ride out his career under the glory of a second championship, and he wanted to minimise the distraction for his teammates.

But if there is indeed more to this story, and if Lewis has been less than forthcoming, then he better be prepared to sit on somebody’s talk-show couch in the near future to address lingering issues. Until he does, this could hurt his post-career earnings potential from endorsements, speaking engagements, or a lucrative career in television.

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Nigeria’s plans to celebrate 100 Years

N

By Peter Olorunnisomo

igeria commenced centenary celebrations on February 4, 2013. President Jonathan’s Administration has kept the values of this celebration close to its chest, although, until recently when the celebration was formally flagged off and said to span till January 2014, not very many would have thought it probable that the government would pursue such a venture.

The year 1914 remains of historical significance in what has become a founding conception of what today we realise as Nigeria. This was predicated on the role of the then colonial Consul-General, Lord Lugard, who was responsible for the identity of the cultural and tribal marking of the Nigerian state of nations.

Many would ask what is worth celebrating at this point. Former Nigerian Head of State, General Abdulsalaam Abubakar voiced that it is an opportunity to rebrand, rejuvenate and pursue true ideals for Nigeria. This would perhaps imply that there is good opportunity to cast a glance back to what values were inherent in the Nigerian societies that amalgated and do a reconstruct to have the country come into the acclaim that she used to enjoy.

Clearly, the opportunities that present themselves as a platform for celebrating a hundred years seem to be quite varied and veritable if it would achieve the goals of bringing back history, glory, values, education, and socio-political well-being.

While the government has several proposals to mark the year-long celebration

Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe in upgrading certain academic infrastructures and increasing community-oriented activities, it does seem that Nigerians in Diaspora would largely benefit from participating in these events.

As part of the 100 centennial projects under launch, the airport road in the Federal Capital Territory would be location to a 100,000 housing units over a thousand hectares and would accommodate about 500,000 vehicles. It is also expected that the project would create thousands of jobs over an approximate five year span.

From information available, it would

Chief Obafemi Awolowo seem that the Government is yet to fully unfold it’s plans. This may be because of the need to harmonise the focus of the celebration by Nigerians all over the world.

Nigerians the world over will thus have the opportunity to showcase what the Nigerian nation states have been about from a hundred years back.

Former President and Head of State, Ibrahim Babangida, commenting in Lagos, recently stated: “As other countries have overcome the mistakes in their history and moved on, so we Nigerians also have cause to rejoice that even though in

presidential villa that the amalgamation of the two protectorates in 1914 was not a mistake but an act of God, which created a unique entity called Nigeria; a beautiful country richly blessed and which has turned out innovative people across the world.

According to President Jonathan, apart from the natural resources in the country, the nation is blessed with a unique collection of people specially created by God and he enjoined Nigerians to safeguard those things that have kept the country together for this long.

“The unity of Nigeria is indivisible and non-negotiable. We must remain the forward-looking people that we are. I see a united, powerful and prosperous nation that will make the generation yet unborn very proud. Arise we shall and prosper we will,” he said.

In attendance at the Monday night flag-

off were former military heads of state, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), Maj. General Mohammadu Buhari (rtd) and General Abdusalami Abubakar (rtd), as well as former presidents Shehu Shagari and Olusegun Obasanjo. Other dignitaries at the occasion included the President of the Senate, Sen. David Mark; Deputy Sen. Ike Ekweremadu; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Aminu Tambuwal; his deputy, Hon. Emeka Ihedioha and the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Aloma Mukhtar.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Anyim Pius Anyim, disclosing that the celebration would generate over 15,000 direct and indirect jobs, said the centenary celebration would be used to replace pessimism with optimism to make the country rise above its challenges. Former head of state General

Sir Ahmadu Bello

our history we have met with obstacles, we have experienced ups and downs, each generation had sought to the best of its ability to tackle these obstacles. That we are still a united nation is sufficient cause for congratulations.”

It would therefore appear that the significance of Nigeria’s centenary celebrations lies as much in the realisation of the hopes of the nation’s founding father as in the notion she should be a nation united among other core political considerations, which today the country is aspiring to achieve.

Centenary celebrations kick off in Nigeria

A

ctivities marking Nigeria’s centenary celebration kicked off on Monday 4 February with an elaborate ceremony, which included the lighting of the Centenary Torch and the unveiling of the logo, centenary portal and theme song.

President Goodluck Jonathan was joined by five former presidents and heads of state, captains of industry, entertainment celebrities and other distinguished Nigerians. Many extolled the virtues of the country, saying its greatness does not lie in the wealth of its resources but in the diversity of its people.

The celebration will climax on January 1, 2014, one hundred years since the British colonial administration amalgamated the Southern and Northern Protectorates to create the modern Nigerian nation.

President Jonathan told the audience at the filled to capacity Banquet Hall of the

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Yakubu Gowon, while unveiling the logo, described Nigeria as “a unique nation; a nation of diverse, strong and hard working people, which has remained united despite the challenges it has faced.”

He said: “May the emblem symbolise a rallying point for the unity of the nation.

May it be a reminder of our entity, unity and oneness of the nation which is not negotiable and serve as a symbol of peace, unity and prosperity.”

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Jonathan visits UK, France over Economy, Mali

P

By Peter Olorunnisomo resident Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has, no doubt, experienced one of the most onerous periods that the Nigerian nation could ever have faced. His ascendancy to the number one office was dogged by such political intrigue that it was feared that the sacrosanct nature of the constitution, and particularly it’s adherence, was being tested.

Yet the storms never stopped there.

There was the election that came after and the break out of militancy in various forms, particularly a spate of kidnapping that threatened to rival the Somalian pirate enterprise.

These beset economic growth and all attempts at consolidating the gains of democracy and policies aimed at the socioeconomic development of the country.

More intricate was the delicate situation of domestic security, which threatened to affect all the designs and programmes the Jonathan administration sought to put in place.

Visibly, the need to tackle the various situations with a strategy that would suffice was paramount and therefore informed on the recruitment of men of expertise, which included the re-appointment of the World Bank guru, Dr. Ngozi OkonjoIweala as Minister of Finance and Coordinations Minister for the Economy; Prof. Barth Nnaji as Minister for Power; the retention of Dr. Shamsideen Usman as the Minister with the National Planning portfolio, among others. This would have signified an intention to address the nation’s economic tide and put in place strategic policies, which would enjoy the immediacy of implementation.

It is also noteworthy that the approach of Dr. Jonathan also understood the need for international and domestic credibility to midwife the favourable results of policies so enunciated. Part of this process was last November’s world tour by one of Nigeria’s strongest economic teams, to interact with the investment world and assure financial institutions, investors and industrial players of the sincerity of the Administration to rejuvenate and create an enabling atmosphere to promote and admit core considerations of production and enterprise allying with the Government’s vision.

President Jonathan’s approach to dealing with issues of domestic security has shown a desire to try dialogue rather than resort to the use of force. While it can be argued that his non-violent approach shows a soft touch, another school of

Priminister David Cameron at Devos

President Goodluck Jonathan at Devos

thought notes that the people concerned are Nigerians and it is needful to lend a listening ear to examine their grounds for complaint and thereafter proffer solutions that are acceptable to both sides.

This concept is perhaps an off-shoot of the late Yar Adua administration, during which the president oversaw the quelling of militancy in the Niger-Delta.

The complexity of the Boko Haram saga may well have stemmed from the fact that the situation is not merely domestic but international, since it is a well-known fact that international terrorist organisations

are actively involved. This calls for a joint effort between Nigeria and other countries such as Somalia, Mali, Chad, etc in Africa and the USA and UK, because of certain implications regarding international conventions and agreements. What might have been thought to be a strictly Nigerian malaise has manifested even in North Africa. This ‘war’ is still ongoing until a lasting solution is found.

A veritable threshold of domestic peace in the country, which always readily threatens domestic stability, has always been in the political terrain where elec-

tioneering strategies and seasons throw up both real and imagined incidents. But it is significant that Goodluck Jonathan has managed to weather the storm here and speak peace into that sphere of Nigerian franchise. The appointment of Prof. Attahiru Jega has not only won applause for a distinctive performance of responsibility, but also for the fact that Mr. President allowed a free hand and did not interfere with the exercise. This certainly won the admiration of Nigerians and proved that a spate of three successive state election exercises were indeed devoid of the negative dynamics of ‘area boys diplomacy’.

An aggregation of these and more would prove the transformation hopes and agenda of the president, all of which are geared towards directly affecting the individual lives of Nigerians through job creation, transportation, poverty alleviation, health, security, transparency and good governance.

As Mr. President, Dame Patience Jonathan and other members of his government entourage touch down in the UK, President Jonathan will be expected to hold talks with his British counterpart, Mr. David Cameron, in discussing issues of economy and security particularly affecting the Malian state before a similar visit with President Holl ande of France.

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CRIME

Drug dealer jailed for 13 years

Charles Court

A drug dealer has been jailed for 13 years after police uncovered cocaine worth more than £8million stored in a Hertfordshire lock up.

Charles Court, 27 a locksmith of Friern Close, Cheshunt, Hertfordshire, pleaded guilty at Wood Green Crown Court to two counts of possession of a Class A drug with intent to supply.

As part of the Met’s ongoing drive to combating organised crime and the supply of Class A drugs, Court was stopped by detectives from the Met’s SCO7 Central Task Force East assisted by officers from Hertfordshire on 28 August 2012, in Goffs Lane,

Cheshunt.

The court heard officers searched the car and a brown taped package was discovered in his vehicle. They believed this was Class A drugs.

In the car, officers also found a number of keys in the car which led them to an industrial unit in the yard at St James Road, Goffs Oak, Herts.

The keys seized opened the door to the unit and inside they discovered a false wall secured with screws with a locked door behind.

Within the unit, the officers found three safes concreted into the wall and floor. A locksmith helped open the safes - they found 28 packages.

Following analysis, the packages were found to contain a total of 26.96 kilograms of cocaine worth an estimated £8,600,625 on the street.

Court was charged and admitted the offence at Wood Green Crown Court on 3 January this year.

Acting Detective Inspector Tim Grinsted, from SCO7’s Central Task Force East, said: “Tenacious detective work prevented a massive amount of cocaine reaching London’s streets and causing the inevitable misery that Class A drugs bring.

“The sentence, following a guilty plea, handed down to Court sends a clear message to those orchestrating this level of criminality.”

Some of the drugs found in the safes

Man jailed for robberies at Dagenham bookmakers

Arrests made as confiscation order evaders targeted Seven criminals who dodged court orders requesting them to pay back over £2.2m made from illegal activity, including drug trafficking, fraud and money laundering were arrested today after being given an early wake up call this morning, Tuesday 29 January.

Officers from the MPS Specialist and Economic Crime Command swooped on London-wide addresses in Islington, Bromley, Southwark, Uxbridge at 6.30am after warrants were issued by the courts for the non-payment of confiscation orders totaling over £2.6m. Two addresses in Hertfordshire and Essex were also visited and netted successful arrests.

Some of the individuals targeted in this morning raids possessed luxury cars, offshore bank accounts and millions of pounds worth of assets and have worked persistently to evade payment of confiscation orders. A convicted drug dealer arrested in Islington was found to have a sports car outside his home. Whilst a man in Bromley who owed the courts £1.34m for fraud related activity was also apprehended.

Last year judges ordered the recovery of over £187m through 6269 separate confiscation orders. Confiscation orders are a key financial tool designed by courts to target the infrastructure and assets acquired through the proceeds crime. Millions of 14

pounds worth of confiscation orders, however, remain outstanding in London despite repeated court demands.

Detective Superintendent Nick Downing, from the Specialist and Economic Crime Unit was pleased with the work of his officers today and promised a lot more hard work ahead. He said: “Today is the start of our activity to ensure that those criminals who have had confiscation orders imposed on them by the court, pay the outstanding amounts. We are committed to ensuring that asset confiscation acts as a deterrent and will continue to target those with outstanding orders until the full amount is paid.

“Some of these orders have been outstanding since 1995 and relate to a few hundred pounds whilst other offenders have over one million outstanding. Our message is very clear, if you have an outstanding confiscation order, take every opportunity to pay it now.”

“The enforcement of these confiscation orders matters to everyone, not just as a deterrent but also as a point of justice. For example, if people have been victims of crime and lost money, the judge, as part of the confiscation / forfeiture hearing, can instruct that a percentage of the money is paid in compensation to the victim.”

Karl at bookmakers in August last year

A man who committed two violent robberies at the same Dagenham bookmakers in little more than a month has been jailed for seven years.

Karl Lawrence, 25 of Woodward Road, Dagenham, had previously pleaded guilty at the Old Bailey to two counts of robbery, possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, and possession of a bladed article.

In both incidents, staff were made to fear for their lives as Lawrence threatened them with a firearm, in the first robbery, and a large knife in the second.

He used threats to seize around £1,500 in total before detectives from the Metropolitan Police Service’s Flying Squad identified and then arrested him.

Detective Constable Fareed Mirza, of the Flying Squad, said: “These were two terrifying ordeals for Lawrence’s victims in which he very deliberately made them fear that they might come to serious harm.

“Anyone who is willing to inflict such fear for their own material gain deserves to spend a significant amount of time behind bars.

“I would like to pay tribute to my colleagues from the Flying Squad whose good work has put this dangerous offender in prison.”

Both robberies took place at the Coral bookmakers in Ripple Road, Dagenham.

At 15:45hrs on 3 August 2012, Lawrence approached an elderly male cashier as he returned to his counter and gained access to a secure area.

He assaulted the cashier and pulled out a handgun which he pointed at the man before threatening to shoot him if he didn’t fill a bag with cash.

Money was taken from cash registers and a safe, and Lawrence fled with £900 before officers’ arrival.

On 7 September 2012, at 08:30hrs, Lawrence followed a female employee into the bookmakers after she had gone outside to smoke a cigarette.

As she went behind a counter he rushed in behind her and pulled out a large kitchen knife, which he used to threaten her as he demanded she open a safe.

This time, he took £605 from the venue before leaving on foot.

Detectives from the Flying Squad identified Lawrence as the suspect for both incidents and he was arrested on 17 September 2012 before being charged as above.

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Adamawa State local policy makers on economic tour of UK

Welcoming the participants, Dr. Tafida advised the delegates to take advantage of the visit to learn about the law & order and discipline that is the pride of Britain. He encouraged them to offer suggestions to the Federal Government on the on-going constitution reforms; especially on the topic of local government autonomy.

Mrs Chinwe Nweke, managing consultant of the training programme said, “The aim of the workshop is to ensure the local government officials change their mindset and find ways to enhance their own revenue. It is the business opportunity generated within each local government that will augment the central allocation.”

During the five-day training tour, the delegates visited Birmingham City Council and London Borough of Newham to learn how city managers in the UK generate their own economy.

Adamawa State delegation with the High Commissioner, Ambassador, Ministers/Heads of departments at the Nigeria High Commission UK

Adamawa State is known to be rich in cattle-rearing and neighbouring African countries attend the international cattle market regularly. The facilitator of the training workshop wants the local government policy makers to guide the elected officials so that serious approaches to issues and policies are target driven.

Some of the participants spoke on the benefits of the training tour. In Adamawa, the majority live in rural areas and will therefore be self-reliant. The trip has exposed delegates to factors hindering development at the grassroots. The policy makers therefore promised to encourage and co ordinate the indigenes understanding of the potentials in their environment and how to harness them. If the people have investments, there would be less insecurity as they would want to defend them.

Photos: Bukola Grace Odusina

Determined to improve revenue generation at the grassroots, senior policy makers from 12 local governments from Adamawa State, Nigeria, who were on an economic development training workshop at the Birmingham University, paid a courtesy call on His Excellency, Dr. Dalhatu Sarki Tafida, OFR, CFR, High Commissioner of Nigeria to the United Kingdom on Wednesday 30 January.

Nigerian Minister Attends Education World Forum in UK

Centre: Prof Rugayyatu Rufai, the Education Minister, second right, His Excellency, Dr. Dalhatu Sarki Tafida, OFR, CFR, High Commissioner of Nigeria to the UK, From left: Prince Tajudeen. Adeniyi Minister/Special Assistant to the HC, Prof. Sagir, SA to the Minister and extreme right: Mr. Mac John Nwaobila, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education during a courtesy visit after the Global Summit for Education Ministers 2013 in London - Theme: “Policy-Making for Quantity, Quality and Impact”.

Gov. Amosun unveils first flyover in Ogun Governor Ibikunle Amosun unveiled the first ultra-modern flyover bridge in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

The N2.4 billion Ibara / Oke- Sokori Flyover bridge is the first to be constructed in the entire state since its creation in 1976.

The four-lane overhead bridge begins at the end of Lalubu road and opens into the newly expanded lane Ibara-Totoro road.

Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Amosun said that the project were not an accident but part of his administration’s programmes on Rural and Infrastructure Development and Urban Renewal reflect ed on everything that represents quality, vision and the tradition of excellence.

He said, “today’s commissioning, on one hand, is a fulfilment of the promise we made during the elections. On the other hand, we are scoring another first in the provision of infrastructure as this bridge is the first to be constructed by the Ogun State government”.

“Our goal is to put our state in the league of advanced economies and make it investors’ destination of choice not only in Nigeria but sub-Saharan Africa.”

“To achieve this, we will continue to rehabilitate existing infrastructure and construct not just modern but high-tech infrastructure that will enhance the magnificence of our

environment and act as a catalyst for our socio-economic development,” he said.

The ceremony had in attendance former head of Interim National Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan, former Chief of General Staff, General Oladipo Diya (retd), the national chairman of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Chief Bisi Akande, former governors of Lagos and Ekiti states, Chief Bola Tinubu and Chief Niyi Adebayo, Senator Biyi Durojaiye and Senator Gbenga Obadara, among others.

Chief Shonekan, in his goodwill message commended the Amosun government for contributing to the future economic growth of the state. He bemoaned the poor maintenance culture to public property and attributed it to the poor condition of infrastructure across the country.

“Today’s event shows that the state government is committed to the socio-economic development. We should continue to invest in social infastructure,” he said.

Senator Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu said that Governor Amosun had made their party (Action Congress of Nigeria) proud by transforming the face of the state, saying that redressing infastructure deficit of any nation needed long term financial assistance. Tinubu described Amosun as “an actualiser of our dream and vision.”

The new flyover bridge at Ibara, Abeokuta, Ogun State

Aremo. Segun Osoba, Gov. Amosun & wife, Chief Akande and Asiwaju Tinubu

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Friday, 8 February 2013 – Thursday, 14 February 2013

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Gospel

TIME FOR EVERYTHING

D

By Michael Adekoya

“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose”Eccl. 3:1.

ear Reader, the revelation in this scripture suggests that the time at which something happens is significant!

My friend, have you ever sat in an airport, in a train or bus station and watched people moving through the area?

I do that often! Some walk slowly and casually. Others stride hurriedly and intently, perhaps running or sprinting. Some are early, others are late but all of them are there for a purpose and the difference in pace is often related to time.

Certainly, parents rejoice when a happily married daughter announces that she is expecting her first child. The pregnancy is usually a happy period as the parents and grandparents prepare to welcome the new child. But when the mother-to-be is sixteen-year-old girl in a college, the coming birth of a new child is often viewed quite differently; and the explanation for the difference lies in the matter of timing.

My friend, do you know the time you are in now? Have you been thinking that maybe God is slow in responding to your requests or needs? Maybe you are saying God is late in coming to your aid, which causes you to look pale stressed, unhappy, discouraged and causes you to question whether He really cares about you.

Listen! You are not alone! Everyone (Christians and non-Christians) on the face of this earth think that way sometime. But the Good News is that there is a difference between our perspective on time and God’s time. God declares, “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your

ways My ways…” Isa. 55:8-11.

The difference in perspective is related to purpose. Solomon says, “To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose” Eccl. 3:1.

My friend, why are you worried, anxious, stressed or troubled? Why are you so much in a hurry? Why would you want to assassinate someone’s character or destroy him or her to get into that position?

Why would you want to rush into a marriage relationship or ministry without God’s approval and proper preparation? Why do you want to start a business which is not the will of God for you?

The same God, who sees and knows the end of everything from the beginning, and has set the course of your life in accordance with His overall purpose, not according to your own immediate wants, is still alive and in control.

Don’t bye-pass Him to do anything this year.

Listen! There may be delay in your life but that doesn’t mean God is not concerned about you. He might be silent but it doesn’t mean He is not at work! Many times in our lives, God comes late and it is the right time for the right purpose just like He did in Hannah’s life.

Hannah was barren in the eyes of people and she became a subject of ridicule and shame.

There was a delay for bringing forth a child. Little did the people around her and even herself know the purpose, plan and timing of God for the birth of Samuel, the last judge and the first prophet in Israel! Even, Eli, her Pastor, despised her and thought she was drunk while she was pouring out her heart to God in prayer in Shiloh because he too was spiritually blind and couldn’t discern the purpose for the delay.

Are you looking for a church? ­­

Not settled in any particular congregation?

Perhaps now is the time to pray about it If you are not yet saved try one of the following: Jubilee International Churchmeets at 2,30pm on Sundays at Kings Avenue, school, park hill. London SW4. Part of Jubilee International Churches worldwide. For information, you may call (020)8697 3354 New Wine Christian Church- 11am holds meeting at Ringcross Tennants club, Lough Road, Holloway, N7. a member of the Icthus fellowship

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worldwide. For more information call 020 7609 959 or 07957 757 663.

Praise Tabernacle- 10:30am holds meetings at 620 Western Avenue (A40), park royal Business centre, opposite Warner Bros. Cinema Complex, W3. part of The Redeemed Christian Church of God. For information you may call 020 8993 3010 New Life Christian Centre 10.30am & 6.00pm. meetings at Cairo New Road, Croydon. The church has

TruPraise Gospel Ensemble

Sound familiar! Isn’t it?

My friend, hear me! How could God bring forth Samuel when Eli was still in position and still functioning? He is a God of order!

Listen! Your time is coming and it is here! The time to favour you, yes, the set time is come (Ps.102:13). It is your turn to manifest God’s glory. Don’t be discouraged. Don’t be deceived or misled! Don’t give up! Don’t look at somebody’s watch to work.

Don’t allow the cultural or societal demands drive your expectations. Don’t let the devil work through your emotion.“God has made everything beautiful in its time…” Eccl. 3:11. God creates everything with a purpose in mind and gives every purpose a time that allows it to progress, to show forth, to appear, to mature, to fulfil His divine purpose or to manifest into perfection. There is time for every purpose!

My friend, you were born and

created for a purpose in God’s plan.

Today, God is instructing you not to move faster in your expectations than His perfect timing allowed.

Moses acted before his time and paid for it. He was a born-deliverer and when he saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew, he killed the Egyptian. Clearly, God has not told him to do this.

He probably thought that his fellow Hebrews would be grateful for what he did but things turn out against him. Everyone knew what he did, but no one applauded. But forty years later, the appointed time came. God appointed and empowered him to lead the children of Israel, the largest congregation in history, from bondage and slavery out of Egypt.

To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose. It’s always good to wait for our time.

My friend, there is time for everything. Don’t be in a hurry.

Let it be known to you this day

a bible school, primary, is involved in extensive mission work in Eastern Europe, Italy and India. For information you may call 020 8680 7671 Ruach Ministries - holds meeting at 9am, 11am and 6pm. For information you may call 020 8678 6888 International Central Gospel church - Battersea chapel, holds meetings on Sundays from 2.00pm. . For information you may call 020 8684 4934 Jesus Arena International- Sunday service at 11.00am at Broadwater farm centre, Adams road N17 The Bible Life Church UK- They meet on Sunday mornings at 2.30pm at St Giles Centre, Camberwell

Church Street, London SE5 Christ Apostolic church (Full Gospel & Pentecostal) Surrey Docks District 163 Ilderton Rd South Bermondsey London SE16 2UT. Tel. 020 7252 2086.

Time of worship: Sunday English service 9- 11.30am. Yoruba service 11.30 -2.30pm. Prophetic counselling: Monday, Tuesday & Thursday 12noon- 5pm, Saturday only 5- 7pm.

Holy Cross Church InternationalSunday 10.am- 1 pm at Crown House 71-73 Nathan way London SE28 0BQ Tel: 07904 234 126, 07809 381 886 Times of service:Bible study: Thursdays 8pm. Night Vigil: Friday Forthnightly 12am

that there will be performance of what God has promised you. You may say, “But Michael, I’m getting old. When is my time?” Listen! The length of years is not the measure of life for God. Your age doesn’t impress or bother Him. He has a plan and purpose for your life.

That’s what He’s concerned with. And the fulfilment of that is what your success will be measured with.

Jesus wasprepared for thirty years for a ministry of three years.

If the thought of age had filled his heart and He had acted before God’s timing, He would probably have missed God’s purpose for His existence.

Elisha was willing to leave everything and follow Elijah for 20 years to get “a double portion” You can’t get such anointing in one church service, in one Breakthrough book, in one Christian telecast, in one religious CD or DVD. No man or woman can give you that. It will make you to be in covenant relationship with God, serve Him under a leader or mentor, kneel before God’s throne alone and ask Him to envelope you with His Spirit, power and holy fire! It will keep you turning the pages of God’s Word to direct you and for you to see what He has to say next. It has to be conscious decision to be focused and not listening to any noise! It’s a combination of passion and faith in God. remain blessed!

Sunday Service: Sundays 10am - 1pm Winners Chapel London- part of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, at Unit B1 Galleywall Trading Estate, South Bermondsey, London SE16 3PB meets Sunday 7am & 9am and 11am and Wednesdays at 7pm. For details call 020 7237 7894 CHRIST APOSTOLIC CHURCH GRAVESEND, ST. AIDAIN’S CHURCH, ST. AIDAN’S WAY, GRAVESEND, KENT, DA12 4AG TEL. 01474 355 841, 07956 38 38 70 TIME OF WORSHIP: Wednesday Bible Study: 7:30pm to 9:00pm Friday, Night Vigil: 9pm to 11pm Sunday Worship: 12:30pm to 3:00pm

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

Africa

DR Congo

Friday, 8 February 2013 – Thursday, 14 February 2013

Newsround

Last minute UN peace deal stalls

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon An agreement aimed at ending recurrent unrest in volatile and mineral-rich eastern DR Congo, where the M23 – a rebel group formed by army mutineers - briefly seized Goma in November, has stalled in Addis Ababa.

Eri Kaneko, spokesperson for UN Sec-

retary-General Ban Ki-moon, described the issue as “very complex” adding that “talks are still continuing.”

Ban urged regional leaders at the African Union summit meeting on Sunday (January 27) to “endorse a Peace Security and Cooperation Framework to address the structural

Kenya

causes of the recurring cycles of violence” in the region. The content of the agreement had not been made public, but a signing ceremony with Ban and eight heads of state had been set for Monday morning. However, leaders are departing the annual meeting empty-handed, after last-minute negotiations failed to convince regional countries South Africa and Tanzania to back the bid.

The international community has been pushing for a new approach to address violence and instability in the DRC ever since the Congolese Army and UN peacekeepers failed to prevent M23 rebels from overtaking Goma late last year. The UN developed the proposal, which included the creation of a special intervention brigade to take aggressive military action against the rebels, in close collaboration with Rwanda, the DRC, Uganda, and Congo-Brazzaville. The brigade would fall under the command of the UN peacekeeping mission.

But the UN brought the deal late to Burundi, South Africa, Angola, and Tanzania, members of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), which had

South Africa

First presidential candidates cleared ahead of March poll

Zuma heads battle to control malaria

National Rainbow Coalition (Narc)-Kenya candidate Martha Karua praised IEBC for transparency

Kenya’s Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has cleared four candidates to contest the presidency on March 4th.

National broadcaster KBC reports that Narc-Kenya’s Martha Karua was the first to be cleared after a brief meeting with the IEBC’s commissioners at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC).

Karua submitted her national identity card and copies of her academic credentials, plus an affidavit affirming her allegiance to the Republic of Kenya. Karua lauded IEBC for transparency in the exercise. She expressed confidence in winning the elections and said if elected, her government will tackle corruption.

Next in line was Eagle coalition flag bear-

developed its own plan. The SADC and countries of Great Lakes region had earlier proposed a similar military force, but which would fall under African leadership.

South Africa’s Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula said her country didn’t have enough time to study the UN-led proposal. Mapisa-Nqakula told reporters that an Africa-led mission would be more responsive to events on the ground, and said she was disappointed the UN failed to integrate the SADC’s ideas into the final agreement.

“A bottom-up approach is always better than a top-down approach,” she said.

A UN official who followed the negotiations admitted that the world body had insufficiently consulted the greater region, but added they still hoped for an agreement once members of the SADC had time to study the deal.

The latest cycle of unrest in eastern DR Congo erupted last year when the rebels seized mining hub Goma before pulling out 12 days later. Peace talks have been held in Uganda, but have so far made little headway.

er Peter Kenneth. Kenneth also submitted the required documents accompanied by his running mate Ronnie Osumba.

Restore and Build Kenya-RBK flag bearer James Ole Kiyiapi has also been cleared to run for the country’s top seat and is confident of clinching victory, saying his critics are surprised that he has come this far in the race.

Musalia Mudavadi of Amani Coalition was also issued with a certificate by IEBC to vie for presidency. He called for peaceful elections.

CORD flag bearer Raila Odinga and Jubilee Alliance presidential candidate Uhuru Kenyatta will present their papers by the time African Voice goes to press on Thursday along with Mohammed Dida, the aspirant of Alliance for Real Change.

Jacob Zuma expects to eliminate the spread of malaria by 2018

Speaking at an African Union summit in Addis Ababa, at which South Africa received the African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA) award for excellence in impact and implementation in the fight against malaria, President Jacob Zuma has pledged to eliminate the spread of the disease within SA’s borders by the year 2018.

Zuma also confirmed that South Africa would continue to use controlled indoor spraying of Dichloro-Diphenyl-Trichloroethane (DDT) insecticide as part of its

malaria control programme.

In 2006, the World Health Organisation (WHO) did an about-turn on the use of DDT to fight malaria, citing South Africa’s successful anti-malaria programme as evidence that controlled indoor spraying of the insecticide was not only safe, but “one of the best tools we have” against the killer disease.

In 1996, South Africa had stopped using DDT against malaria following pressure from environmental groups. Zuma said this resulted in huge increases of malaria cases in the country, from a baseline of approximately 10,000 cases in 1995 to 64,000 in the year 2000. The main cause of this increase was because the particular species that transmitted malaria, which was once almost eradicated with DDT, had reappeared and was resistant to other types of insecticides.

The Department of Health reverted to the use of DDT in 2000. Subsequently malaria cases decreased to 26 506 in 2001, with progressive decreases in subsequent years to 9 866 cases in 2011.

Zuma said South Africa and other SADC countries had initiated a process to eliminate malaria, in keeping with the call from the African Union in its 2007 malaria declaration.

Other recipients of the AU award were Cape Verde, Namibia, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Swaziland and Zambia.

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Friday, 8 February 2013 – Thursday, 14 February 2013

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African Music Artist

S.E. Rogie S

.E. Rogie, (Sooliman Rogers) was born in the 1940s in Sierra Leone where he learned to play guitar while still a youngster.

He grew up during the formative years of highlife and his palm wine style of playing fit right into the genre. He supported himself as tailor but by the 60s he was ready to go out as a musician on his own. Singing in four languages his songs, ‘Go Easy With Me’, and Koneh Pehlawo’ were big hits. But his biggest hit was the song ‘My Lovely Elizabeth’ which was covered by countless artists and is still know all along the West Coast of Africa. The song was eventually picked up by EMI and that led to a great advancement in his music and in

his recordings.

In 1965 Rogie formed a band, the Morningstars, who acompanied his acoustic guitar with electric intruments and the local sounds of African percussion. In 1967 he traveled to Liberia, and in 1970 he began the first of sixteen years in the U.S. performing his African Folk and Cultural Programs in Elementary and High Schools all over California. He received awards from the United States Congress and Senate, the City of Oakland, and the City of Berkeley. In 1988 he returned to his homeland. He died in 1994, just after his release of the album, Dead Men Don’t Smoke Marijuana.

David Rudder

I

t’s hard to remember when calypso has seen more controversy, excitement, and popularity than the day David Rudder stepped beyond his role as lead singer for the brass band Charlie’s Roots and entered the domain, of the calypso tent as an individual artiste.

“Almost overnight he became a national hero on the order of Marley in Jamaica, Fela in Nigeria and Springsteen in New Jersey,” wrote Daisann McClane, American journalist and World Beat correspondent for Rolling Stone Magazine.

Rudder’s unprecedented rise to fame in 1986 has made him the subject of music critics around the world. From New York to London to Tokyo, where the Japanese have released a CD of Rudder’s greatest hits complete with lyrics translated into Japanese, Rudder has been described as modern calypso’s most innovative songwriter.

For Carnival 1993 Rudder released his album Ministry of Rhythm considered in Trinidad to be Rudder’s best example of how to bridge the gap between modern pop and World Beat Music. Total Caribbean News wrote, “You’re always guaranteed of a solid eight new songs and variety (with Rudder) David takes us on another fabulous musical journey. You can’t come away without learning something. Rudder’s ability write lyrics is undying. It’s a beautiful Caribbean Infoparty.”

Rudder was featured in Billboard magazine in 1993. “After years of sporadic record label interest and musical mutations, some industry observers reckon that calypso is inching closer toward an international breakthrough,” wrote Maureen Sheridan.

Billboard noted Rudder’s three nominations for Sunshine awards at the time: Male vocalist of the year for Calypso Rising, best 18

social commentary and calypso of the year for Hosay featured on Rudder’s 1992 album Rough and Ready.

Debbie Jacob of the Trinidad Express wrote: “This music exudes confidence. If creativity is about making people see and feel, showing instead of telling, Rough and Ready is another of Rudder’s creative departures.” The Los Angeles Times featured two stories about Rudder. On July 28, Don Snowden wrote that David Rudder’s local debut at the Music Machine with Charlie’s Roots ... “clearly established the singer as the most potent representative of the vibrant soca sound.”

“The performance also impressively stretched the parameters of soca beyond the party-hearty lyrics and relentless groove-athon epitomised by Arrow’s Hot Hot Hot. Rudder rejected some of the political com-

David Rudder performing at CFW

mentary of classic calypso and slowed down and broke up the soca groove without losing its flow or rhythmic force. Rudder...could easily be the next Caribbean artist to break through in a big way.”

Rudder’s 1992 album Frenzy, which included Long Time Band about Carnival past and Knock Them Down a commentary about the Gulf War, earned rave reviews by the Sunday Punch and Trinidad Express. Following an Easter Concert in Port oDavid Rudderf Spain, Express Entertainment reporter Peter Blood wrote, “Rudder staged the mother of all shows.” wrote peter Blood Express entertainment reporter. Rudder combined the best of his 1991 Rough and Ready and 1992 Frenzy on a CD. He released a collection of videos through Banyan, in Trinidad. Gordon Rohlehr, University professor and calypso

expert heralded Rudder as “A Mighty Poet of a Shallow People in a Savage Time” in The Trinidad and Tobago Review, March 1992.”In this calypso Hosay, Rudder is at his most metaphorical, his most oblique.”

Over the years, Rudder has proved his versatility. In 1986 he sang about the Bahia Girl and was crowned calypso monarch of Trinidad and Tobago. In 1990 he sang with the Bahia Girl in Wild Orchid, a major Hollywood movie produced by Warner Brothers. Rudder performed with internationally acclaimed Brazilian singer Margareth Menezes.

Together Rudder and Menezes sang Dark Secrets, one of three songs Rudder contributed to the movie which stars Mickey Rourke and Jacqueline Bisset. The two other compositions Children of Fire and Just a

Friday, 8 February 2013 – Thursday, 14 February 2013

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African Music Artist rientation. He has broadened the horizon or scope of the artform. Calypso at this time is crying out for a shot in the arm. He has taken it back to its roots, the Shango rhythm and the chants,” wrote Trinidad music critic, Dr. Fedo Blake, in the Trinidad Guardian.

In the award-winning article for excellence in journalism entitled Looking for the Lyric, Trinidad Express Editor Keith Smith wrote, “Rudder has refused to turn his back on the great calypso tradition he has inherited, but the measure of his art is how he has remained unconfined by that tradition, yet secure in the foundation...”

“Rudder represents a new generation of Trinidadians. The spirit of rock, and the spirit of blues coming and going in the mainstream of his kaiso,” wrote Wayne Brown, columnist for the Trinidad Express.

“The beat and heart of Rudder’s songs are in the Shango Baptist chanting. When he performs, his scat-singing, influenced by American jazz singers like Jon Hendricks and Al Jarreau, gets more and more percussive, bopping and bouncing around his band’s head-bending Congo drum until it stands as a direct channel to the other side. He plants these roots in a pop context breaking from calypso’s traditional verse chorus/band chorus format. Instead, he plays with bridges, vamps and uses imagistic non-lineal lyrics,” wrote McClane in the Village Voice. While controversy raged on, David carried his musical message throughout North America and Europe.

“Not since the early days of the Mighty Sparrow has a calypsonian been able to sell Carnival are also included in the sound track of the movie. Dark Secrets was produced into a video distributed throughout Europe to advertise the movie which featured World Beat Music. Apart from Wild Orchid, Rudder released three other albums in 1990.

Sketches, a mini-album for Carnival; 1990, a ten-song album that includes songs from Down at the Shebeen; A concert of Conscience which played to packed houses for the entire two weeks it ran at the Central Bank Auditorium in Port of Spain. The concert and album 1990 are devoted to the people of South Africa and feature a blend of calypso, blues and high life.

The third album released by Sire/Warner Brothers and London Records compiled songs from The Power and the Glory and 1990 along with additional tracks by independent producers including the renowned Stewart Levine who in the past had produced Hugh Masekela, Joe Cocker, Simply Red and Culture Club.

In late 1989 Rudder flew to Hollywood to work with Levine and top session musician Larry Williams on a cut from the album entitled Calypso Rising written by Gregory Ballantyne. American steel pannist Andy Narell and percussionist, Lenny Castro also sat in on the session.

Trinidad-born producer/songwriter Winston Jones contributed to the album. Jones had worked on my Warner Brothers productions in the past including Chaka Kahn and the Batman album. Rudder’s album entitled 1990 album was featured in Stereo Review: “Rudder reigns as the king of calypso,”

wrote Phyl Garland.

In Trinidad, Rudder’s phenomenal record still stands: Young King, the National Calypso Monarch title. Road March king, winning Panorama tune-¬Rudder captured every title in the 1986 calypso season, an unprecedented feat in calypso history. “Not since 30,000 Trinis raised their hands chanting “We Pope” at the National Stadium has anyone received such an ovation,” wrote Angela Fox in the weekly Superstar of Rudder’s award-winning performance in the Savannah. “...a performance which I believe has changed calypso, nothing less than that!” wrote columnist Wayne Brown while the Express devoted an editorial entitled Long Live the King.

“The calypso historian inside, knew this moment was like Sparrow’s arrival in 1956, like Shorty’s and Shadow’s soca in 1974.

David rudder is the first of a new generation of calypsonians and he’s opening up a whole new way to write, sing, feel and see the thing. His music transcends culture, race, and class. You don’t have to be from Trinidad to feel the power and the integrity in it. And, this is me, a Yankee talking.

Things will never be the same again,” wrote McClane in the Village Voice.

Rudder blended a variety of musical voices: pop, jazz, blues, calypso since he came on the scene first noticed for songs like Calabash, one of the many theme songs for the great masquerade designer Peter Minshall. David’s distinctive style aroused the support of many music critics. “His music represents a turning inward, a form of reo-

out his every performance in a country that is not prone to personality cults,” wrote Jan Murray in the English newspaper, The Observer. “His name will never be forgotten!” wrote the Barbados Nation as Rudder made a trip to that country to negotiate a record deal with internationally acclaimed Eddy Grant. “David Rudder has struck it big in Jamaica!” wrote the Trinidad Guardian of Rudder’s astounding success in Bob Marley’s territory.

“It is fascinating to analyze his success story in London. Perhaps it all started with a four page spread entitled King David in the Sunday Observe magazine, a privilege very few British pop stars enjoy,” wrote The Guardian in England. “Rudder’s characteristic fusion of words and music, sense and sound is a persuasive whole that takes the soul now, and works into “The magic of Rudder’s best work is that it appeals to everybody at the sensuous level or the gut level

first,” wrote University of the West Indies lecturer Kenneth Ramchand.

Rudder signed a six year contract with London Records in England and Sire/Warner Brothers in the U.S. and produced albums like Haiti in 1988. The album dominated the first musical awards ceremony in Trinidad and Tobago. Rudder won five major awards including Best Male Recording Artiste, Calypso Most Played on Pan, PANAMA, Best Selling and Most Played Calypso Album of the Year, HAITI, the biggest selling records of the year.

The world continued to notice David Rudder. He was featured in a number of international publications including Germany’s Gorgenpost and Stern Magazine. Jamaica’s newspaper The Gleaner described him as the “Bob Marley of Soca,” In the U.S. the Boston Globe, New York Times and Village Voice featured Trinidad and Tobago’s calypso revivalist. “Rudder’s HAITI album was plugged by music critic Michael Segell in the July 1988 issue of Cosmopolitan. Rudder was a cover story for Class magazine, featured artist in Ebony Magazine and featured artist in an article in the internationally acclaimed Newsweek Magazine. The article entitled “Pop Makes a Global Spin” written

by Jim Miller called Rudder as the King of Soca.

Carib Beat magazine wrote how people came by the thousands from all over the U.S. for the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival for which Rudder received rave reviews. He was a highlight in SportAid Live via international satellite. Rudder had performed with Barry White, Billy Ocean, KC and the Sunshine Band, Third World, Steel Pulse, Musical Youth, Miami Sound machine and Chalice. His HAMMER was the title track for an album made by Andy Narell, American jazz pannist. The song hit the American jazz charts.

Rudder was born in Belmont, Trinidad on May 6, 1953. One of 5 children born to his mother, he spent much of his early childhood with his grandmother, a spiritual Baptist. He grew up near a pan yard and a Shango yard in a neighborhood where boys dreamed of being entertainers.

Rudder began singing at the age of 11 with a group called The Solutions. In 1977, he joined a brass band called Charlie’s Roots and the rest is history. His musical tastes in the past have leaned towards jazz, blues, folk rock and the African sounds of Youssou N’Dour, Salif Keita, Mory Kante, and Alpha Bondy. Rudder, who also paints, sees himself more as an artist than an entertainer.

His work has become legendary in Trinidad and Tobago, “Some people go back through the mists of time to find the legends, but more often than we care to acknowledge it or indeed recognise it, the legend is now,” wrote Deborah John of the Trinidad Express.

Rudder has, as Wayne Brown wrote, “. . . made an entire culture redefine itself, in the evolution of any culture there are moments that offer the opportunity for self definition . . . the emergence of David Rudder . . . seems to me, one such moment.”

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Encounter

Inspiration Time With Dayo Olomu Dayo Olomu, BSc (Hons), PGCE, MSc HR, Human Resources Development & Business Transformation Consultant, Executive/Business Coach, Success & Winning Strategist.

Why Should I Become a Paid Speaker?

There are many reasons why you should become a professional speaker, and I’ve already detailed some of them in the previous week. Lucrative fees, prestige, and an excellent addition to your marketing repertoire are tops on most people’s list.

However, if you are serious about becoming a professional speaker, it is important to take a good look at both the pros and cons of the profession.

Pros: • Flexibility in schedule • Opportunity to travel • The sky is the limit for salary!

• Chance to meet many varied and interes tin people • Excellent way to promote your business • Lots of opertunity for “back of the room” product promotion • You are your own boss • You can make a difference in people’s

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lives • Great self-confidence booster • The challenge will keep your brain fresh and alive • Recognition as an expert in your field • You may even achieve fame Sound good? Great! However, slow down for a moment. Let’s also take a good, hard look at the cons of a public speaking career.

You don’t want to begin a career in speaking only to discover you hate some of the downsides of it.

Cons: • Necessity to spend a lot of time away from home • Responsible for own marketing • Your success is up to you • Must learn—and continue to hone—pub lic speaking skills • Need to have interesting and timely things to say

• Must keep your product—your speeches—current • No stable income at first As you can see, some of the best things about being a public speaker, such as being your own boss, are also the worst things, such as being your own boss and being responsible for your own success. However, this independence and challenge is what most public speakers thrive on. The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in the field of professional speaking!

If all of the pros appeal to you but you aren’t sure you have the skill set necessary to become a polished public speaker, don’t worry. Very few people set out initially to carve out a career in professional speaking. Many speakers get into through other means— such as promoting their business or talking about their passions—and discover they

have a true love for it. Over the years, they have learned tips and techniques to become stellar public speakers. And you, too, can take advantage of these tips and techniques and learn how to shine as a professional speaker yourself. There are many organizations and books available to help you learn the ropes.

First of all, you need to decide what you will be speaking about. The top professional speakers develop highly focused niches in very specific markets. Of course, if you have a business and want to begin public speaking as a way to increase your market share, you will already have your topic figured out. But what if you don t? How can you find a topic to speak on?

To be successful, first you must find a need, and next, you must find a way to fill it.

Begin by inventorying your personal and professional life. What are your passions?

What gets you excited? What do you love to share with others? Do you have an expertise in anything that you could develop into a niche? You must have something of value and benefit to convey to others, but odds are good that you already do.

Once you have identified your topic (or topics it is okay to have several areas that you cover, just don t pile on too many or people will wonder how you can be an expert in all of them) you must write a dynamite speech.

We will cover this topic in detail in a future week, but for now consider that writing is a learnable skill. If you think you don t have the skills you need to write a speech or seminar, you can certainly develop them.

There are many wonderful books on writing speeches specifically and writing in general to which you can refer. And, of course, the internet is a great resource for information on writing. Bear in mind, too, that if you really hate writing, there are many talented writers in the world who would love to help you develop your speeches.

Next, you must master presentation skills.

The professional speaker knows that preparation is key! Practice, practice, practice, and practice some more. Go through your

material so many times that you know it by heart. Go through it so much that you know it better than any other human being on the planet, and can recite it at whim.

Once you ve learned your material backwards and forwards, it is time to find people to present it to. You will probably have to start by offering your speeches for free.

This is fine to do it is a chance to build your skills and expertise and your reputation. Offer your services to small groups for starters. Many communities have organizations that are in constant need of speakers. These groups would be delighted to have you come speak to them.

Look through your local phone book or an internet directory of associations which pertain to your area of expertise. Contact these groups and offer your services.

Another great place to speak when you are starting out is at networking group meetings.

Many business people attend these meetings to make contacts and get leads.

Speaking to networking groups can be a way to hone your skills, enhance your reputation, and make contacts for future speaking gigs.

Another place to look for engagements is at local colleges and universities. Contact them and offer your services. You can also look through the extension catalogs of community colleges. You ll find a wide variety of classes offered. Odds are good one will be on your topic. Contact the teacher and offer your services. Once you get really good, you may even want to contact the college and offer to teach a class. You won t get paid much, but you will learn more about how to present your material, and how your audience will absorb it.

How Do I Get Started?

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Kanoute: new generation can lift Mali The ongoing CAF Africa Cup of Nations has so far seen a rejuvenated Mali impress during the group phase, edging out Niger 1-0 in the opener and drawing with Congo DR 1-1 to set up a mouth-watering quarter-final showdown with South Africa on Saturday.

Skippered by former Barcelona star Seydou Keita and featuring a host of talented youngsters, the Eagles remain on target to surpass their lastfour finish in the 2004 edition.

Their amazing run in the continental campaign nine years ago, of course, was largely attributed to striking-ace Frederic Kanoute.

The French-born forward was on target four times, including opening the scoring in the 2-1 quarter-final defeat of Guinea as his side stormed into the semi-finals. Although a four-goal tally saw him finish tournament joint top-scorer alongside the likes of Patrick Mboma and Jay-Jay Okocha, their 4-0 semifinal loss to Morocco and failure to take the continental crown still cuts deep.

“Our failure to win the African title and to qualify for a World Cup is the biggest disappointments of my career,” the 35-year-old marksman told FIFA.com. “But that is life.

Although I am not playing for the national team anymore, I hope this young generation can achieve these goals.”

Having seen his side’s brilliant display thus far, Kanoute is hoping Mali continue to show form on the African scene and bring a smile to the citizens of his conflict-troubled nation.

“I believe a breakthrough will come soon,” he said. “Our country is going through a difficult period and there are of course some

urgent problems to tackle. But a great performance in the Cup of Nations will give a sense of hope for our brothers and sisters in Mali.”

The continental final competition, according to Kanoute, provides the Malians with a chance to not only inspire the people through their performances, but also to prepare for the forthcoming second qualifying round for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™ where they will open against Rwanda on 22 March.

“Qualifying for a world cup is always a long and hard process,” he said. “Football in Africa has made great progress over recent years so all the teams are competitive. With so many sides battling for only a few qualifying spots, there is no easy games. But inside me I believe Mali can make it through [to our first FIFA World Cup] at the God’s will.”

International retirement

After his eye-catching showing at the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations, the towering striker went on to feature significantly for Mali on the road to Germany 2006, with the side progressing to the final round only to crash out due, in part, to their away form. Kanoute scored eight times during their bid for FIFA World Cup South Africa 2010 qualification, but again a lack of consistency cost them dearly as they stumbled at the final hurdle.

At club level, after spells with the likes of Lyon, West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur, Kanoute spent seven seasons with Sevilla during which he racked up 88 goals in 209 appearances. He departed for pas-

Frederic Kanoute tures new last June, joining Chinese Super League side Beijing Guoan.

“My time in Sevilla was wonderful, personally and professionally,” said Kanoute, who, in 2007, was the first player born outside the continent to win the African Player of the year award. “But after my contract expired, I wanted to take new challenges in life so I moved to China. I am happy in Beijing and will give my best to my new team.”

Asked about the goals he has set for the coming year, he acknowledged he is now focusing on his club career having called time on his national team career after their failed campaign for South Africa 2010.

“I hope I’ll be able to help Beijing as much as possible, scoring goals in my second season and helping the team improve with my experiences,” he said. “I’d like to win a title with the capital club.”

Despite his international retirement, Kanoute conceded Mali remains a special source of pride. “I gave my best when I played for Mali, and representing the national team was always my biggest pride,” said Kanoute. “Although I have decided to retire from international football in order to make way for the youngsters, I will always support the Mali team, even in a different way.”

Brazil 2014 ambassadors unveil official poster In their first official mission, the newly appointed ambassadors of the 2014 FIFA World Cup 30 January 2013 unveiled the tournament’s Official Poster at a media briefing in Rio de Janeiro.

Four FIFA World Cup winners, Amarildo, Carlos Alberto Torres, Bebeto and Ronaldo, as well as women’s football star Marta, were invited by FIFA Secretary General Jérôme Valcke to end the suspense and help unveil the design. The Official Poster was the last remaining visual icon to be launched for the 2014 edition of FIFA’s flagship event.

“The poster is a great example of Brazil’s creative excellence. The winning entry will no doubt serve as a splendid visiting card for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, that is due to kick off in 498 days. The poster highlights the significance and sparkle of the event as well as the fascination of football in a very emotive way”, explained Valcke, who was part of a high-profile judging panel also made up of Brazilian Minister of Culture Marta Suplicy, LOC President Jose Maria Marin, Brazilian artist Romero Britto as 22

well as LOC Board of Administration members Ronaldo and Bebeto.

“It’s different, Brazilian, creative and daring. It has our boundless size and manages to capture our rhythm and colours. Let’s go for victory!” said Marta Suplicy, Brazilian Minister of Culture.

The Official poster was designed by Brazilian creative agency Crama, which was selected ahead of two other designs.

“The Official Poster is an important step for showcasing Brazil and the FIFA World Cup in the Host Country and abroad. It is important to convey the message of a country that is modern, innovative, sustainable, happy, united and, of course, passionate about football,” explained Ronaldo.

“I’m sure that when Brazilians see the official poster they’ll feel represented. We’re proud of this important symbol of the FIFA World Cup, which also shows the passion for football in our country,” added Bebeto.

The artwork depicts the beauty and diversity of Brazil through a colourful, emotional and vibrant design. The creative concept at

“It’s different, Brazilian, creative and daring. It has our boundless size and manages to capture our rhythm and colours. Let’s go for victory!” said Marta Suplicy, Brazilian Minister of Culture. the heart of the poster is “An entire country at football’s service – Brazil and football: one shared identity”, which inspired Crama to shape the winning design. This is evident

throughout the poster, particularly where the players‘ legs challenging for the ball reveal the map ofBrazil.

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Africa Cup of Nations throws up new talents Continued from back page

Yaya Toure

Ryan Mendes (Cape Verde Islands) Not exactly an unknown entity coming into the tournament, having already gained UEFA Champions League experience with Lille, but the 23-year-old forward confirmed his reputation as a star-in-the-making as the key man in attack for the islanders. He is consistent and pacy and played a large part in helping the Blue Sharks to a surprising

quarter-final berth.

Godfrey Oboabona & Kenneth Omeruo (Nigeria) Another pair that raised some eyebrows in Keshi’s direction when he included the inexperienced and young defenders in his squad for the finals. But the 22-year-old Oboabona, who plays for Sunshine Stars in the Nigerian league, and Omeruo, a 19-yearold on loan at ADO Den Haag in the Netherlands from Premier League giants Chelsea, have seen plenty of match-time, while captain Joseph Yobo has spent most of his time on the bench. Keshi has said that the defenders have done well. “Part of my job is to make choices. If I took these young players, it is because I thought they were able to do well on the pitch. We have enough more experienced players to give the advice.”

Thuso Phala (South Africa) The right winger was brought into the Bafana set-up by Igesund and was picked ahead of more experienced players, and he played an important role as the hosts progressed to the quarter-final stage for the first time at the AFCON finals since 2002. The 26-year-old plays his club football for Platinum Stars af-

ter having previously been on the books of South African glamour clubs Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns.

Molla Wague (Mali) The inclusion of the 21-year-old, who was born and played at youth level for France, into Patrice Carteron’s squad for the AFCON finals, was a big surprise. However, the Caen defender has been outstanding in defence and has formed a formidable duo with team-mate Adama Coulibaly. The Eagles have conceded just three goals in the tournament ahead of the semi-finals.

Mubarak Wakaso (Ghana) After convincingly progressing through the group phase, Ghana’s Black Stars came up against rookies Cape Verde and - rather surprisingly - the rookies were making most of the play in the early part of the game. Ghana coach Kwesi Appiah brought on Wakaso, and the 22-year-old left midfielder, who plays his club football for Espanyol Barcelona, repaid his coach’s confidence in him by scoring twice. His three goals in three matches at the tournament - two from the spot - make him arguably the most efficient player of the tournament.

AFCON 2013: How The Giants are Falling

By Peter Olorunnisomo The 29th Africa Nations Cup started without the usual fanfare that was expected of it. For some the big glum came as a result of a save-the-day arrangement accepted by South Africa to host the tournament which seem to be steadily lacking the verve and excitement that should readily compete with those of the UEFA, and Copa del Rey.

Even though the sponsorship packages may not be as booty based, it goes beyond the mere celebration of African football which FIFA has continuously tried to support by evaluating standards to determine the number of slots for the African continent at the World Cup. It can be argued that the Cup of Nations does not generate as much commercial income to place it on a comparison with these. Nonetheless, the presence of over 65% of professional players plying their trade outside Africa is very suggestive.

While South Africa may have all its excuses for not setting the nation agog, the political turmoil in northern Africa may also have affected the shine, competitiveness, the showmanship and sportsmanship, which usually pits the north against the west or southern Africa. The north African teams quietly bowed out mostly at the preliminary and knock-out stages though not without giving a good account of their footballing skills.

Case has been made about the commercialisation of football and the attraction that big teams hold. But this year’s tournament has suddenly made a twist. Countries like Cote d’Voire boasting a sizeable amount of professionals from the premier league tripped out against the shine of Cape Verde – that little island which should not have boasted of the feats achieved even though they bowed out, not to the superior skills of Ghana but, to the god of football who seemed to favour age in this instance rather than beautiful football. I really wonder which would have been a commercial success here. A classic comparison of Brazilian samba and German efficiency.

Aside from Ghana and Mali who still have a healthy chunk of overseas professionals in their midst, the managers of the premier league sides would be rejoicing at having the likes of Emmanuel Adebayor back (what

with Jermain Defoe injured with a possibility of being out for over three weeks for Tottenham Hotspurs) and Manchester City who seriously requires its attacking options if they must challenge Manchester United for the League title this year.

Perhaps we have not yet seen the true excitement of the revelations of this edition manifest properly. History is replete with the events of the Italy/Brazil World Cup finals where Italy matured with every game despite its spate of draws in the group stages only to yield the perfect storms and storm out Brazil from no less an arrowhead than Paolo Rossi who until that revelation of a hat trick could have remained a passenger in the Italian line up. But that is what rising up to the game is all about.

So far games have been beautiful and exciting. New stars are emerging on the horizon. The old ones may have little to pep up their pedigree in Europe except for their bank balances while the young and new heroes that must shine will hope for a better payday at the forth coming transfer window.

But there are still great games to go.

Nigeria will need to prove a new verve and hunger against the Malians who have so far found answers of their own against their opponents with the talismanic Keita.

The Ghanaians will have to ask the presence of that god of football again because the Burkinabes have been long in the game as well and when they come into their own; its not less than an electrifying game. Any which way, let’s hope the standard rises better off the pitch as well because as spectators we need the hype as well.

Ghana pay Black Stars US$ 35,000 each

Dede Andrew Ayew (no 10 ) leads Ghananian players after training at Kasarani

Ghana players have been paid US$ 35,000 each for advancing to the last eight of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations.

“The bonuses were paid at 10:30 pm last night and you can see that is why the players are happy,” Ghana FA spokesperson Ibrahim Daara-Sannie confirmed at a press conference.

Ghana FA Executive Committee member Emmanuel Kyeremeh further explained the mechanism for paying bonuses.

“The budget management submitted to the Ministry was approved and we also agreed the qualifying bonus with the players. We actually didn’t base it on matches,” Kyeremeh said.

“If we had not qualified, then we were not going to pay any bonus.”

Ghana finished with 7 points, three more than second-placed Mali and set-up a showdown with high-flying Cape Verde.

Coach Appiah said he expects a difficult game against Cape Verde.

“I prefer a game against Ivory Coast than Cape Verde because Cape Verde have nothing to lose,” said Appiah.

“They will play without any pressure and they are a very physical side, meaning we have to prepare ourselves very well to match them.

“I respect them and we cannot afford to underrate them because any team who qualified for this tournament are good and cannot be underrated.

“We have to work hard to go past them.”

The Black Stars beat the Blue Sharks 1-0 in a warm-up prior to this competition, but Appiah brushed aside the significance of the result.

“Yes, we beat them in a friendly, but it does not really matter whether you win a friendly 10-0 or lose 10-0.

“What is important in such games is the tactical behaviour of your team,” said the former Ghana left-back.

23

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AFCON 2013: How The Giants are Falling SEE PAGE 23

Africa Cup of Nations throws up new talents

After 2012 Champions, Zambia: Who kisses the Nations Cup 2013?

Although the likes of the Toure brothers, Didier Drogba, Emmanuel Adebayor and John Obi Mikel have been the focus of the majority of headlines at the 29th edition CAF Africa Cup of Nations, a number of previously unheralded players have grabbed their fair share of the spotlight.

FIFA.com looks at some of the up-andcomers who have used the tournament to showcase their talents.

Djene Dakonam (Togo) One of the surprises of the tournament, Togo’s Sparrow Hawks mainly consist of foreign-based professionals, and the 21year-old Dakonam is one of the few players in the squad plying their trade in Africa.

The Coton Sport de Garoua defender usually plays on the right for his club in Cameroon but was used on the opposite flank by Togo’s coach Didier, and he proved himself to be convincing, quick and skilled despite

Cape Verde, the Bafana Bafana coach picked the 24-year-old for their all-important second clash against Angola. Furman was outstanding, taking on responsibility and looking for the ball. Three days later, Furman helped the hosts into the quarter-finals with a 2-2 draw against Morocco. It was an excellent day for the central midfielder as his English League One club Oldham Athletic beat Premier League club Liverpool in the FA Cup. A missed penalty in the shoot-out in Bafana Bafana’s defeat against Mali did little to take away the shine from Furman’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign.

Sunday Mba (Nigeria) Although mainly used so far as a bit-player by coach Stephen Keshi, the midfielder managed to make an impact when brought on. Mba, who plays for Enugu Rangers in the Nigerian first division, played in just two games, but he scored one of the goals of the

By Agency Reporter

only starting his national team career late last year.

Fatawu Dauda (Ghana) The 27-year-old goalkeeper is one of four Ghana-based players in the Black Stars squad in South Africa. Widely expected to be a third-choice behind Adam Larsen Kwarasey and Daniel Adjei, the Ashanti Gold custodian has moved ahead in the pecking order as Ghana advanced into the semi-finals.

Dauda picked up a man-of-the match award in his side’s quarter-final victory against Cape Verde Islands and remarked to journalists that he hoped to keep the number one jersey. “I am not saying I am better than the other goalkeepers but in football it’s about who gets selected, and so I want to keep the faith of the coach,” he said.

Dean Furman (South Africa) After being overlooked by Gordon Igesund for the hosts’ opening Group A game against

ISSUE 469

event: the all-important winner against pretournament favourites Côte d’Ivoire, which showed confidence and skill against the veteran Ivorian defence. Although the shot was aided by a deflection, the 24-year-old is one of the most promising Africa-based players on show in South Africa and he’s validated Keshi’s choice of several domestic-based players.

Continue on page 23

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