African Voice Newspaper Issue 613

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Friday, 22 January - Thursday, 28 January 2016 ISSUE 613

SINCE 2001

£1.00 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 Police volunteers What Does the Future to be given more Hold for the UK powers Housing Market?

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SEE PAGE 8

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$5m Ebola vaccine deal announced

By Alan Oakley

GAVI, the global vaccine alliance, has pledged to donate $5 million toward developing the leading Ebola vaccine in the hope it will be approved by a regulator by the end of 2017.

If the vaccine is given the green light, GAVI says it will then create a stockpile to help stamp out future outbreaks of the deadly disease. The vaccine’s producer, Merck & Co. Inc., says it will ensure that 300,000 doses are available from May 2016 for use in expanded use clinical trials and/or for emergency use as needed while vaccine development continues.

In a statement on Wednesday, GAVI CEO Dr Seth Berkley said “the world is still worryingly underprepared for potential future health threats.”

The agreement, announced on January 20th at the World Economic Forum in Davos, will help Merck take the vaccine through licensure and World Health Organization (WHO) prequalification.

Merck has already submitted an appli-

The donation will help Merck take the Ebola vaccine through licensure and WHO prequalification.

cation through WHO’s Emergency Use Assessment and Listing (EUAL) procedure. If the EUAL is approved, this will

provide an opportunity for the investigational vaccine to be used if another public health emergency with Ebola occurs

before the vaccine is licensed.

Continued on page 2

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Have You News Got News $5m Ebola vaccine deal announced For Us Continued from front page

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Rise in disadvantaged children staying in education after 18

Rising numbers of children from disadvantaged backgrounds are progressing to university or vocational training after leaving sixth form or college, new figures published on 21 January 2016 reveal.

The proportion of A level or equivalent stu-

dents who were eligible for free school meals

(FSM) at school progressing on to a sustained place in education has improved by 4 percentage points since 2010 - a step Schools Minis-

ter Nick Gibb has today called a “vindication of the remorseless focus on helping children from all backgrounds succeed”.

Schools Minister Nick Gibb said: We want

to spread educational excellence everywhere and have introduced measures to help teachers ensure all children are able to fulfil their potential, regardless of their background.

Today’s figures are a vindication of the re-

morseless focus on helping children from all backgrounds succeed.

Publisher and Editor-In-Chief Mike Abiola Editorial Board Adviser Dr Ola Ogunyemi Managing Editor Alan Oakley News Editor Peter Olorunnisomo Sports Editor Abiodun Teriba Arts Editor Golda John Columnists Milton Tella Photo Journalist Isaac Adegbite Graphic Designer Edward Mirza Accountant Fanla Agboola Chief Correspondent, Nigeria Olubunmi Omoogun London Office: Unit 7 Holles House Overton Road London SW9 7AP

Tel: 020 3737 3077

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African Voice is published by African Voice UK.

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Dr Julie Gerberding, executive vice president, Strategic Communications, Global Public Policy and Population Health for Merck said: “We are very pleased to join with GAVI in announcing this Advance Purchase Commitment agreement to support the provision of MSD’s investigational monovalent Ebola Zaire vaccine - in case of a resurgence of the Ebola outbreak or a new outbreak.

“We applaud GAVI for this bold step to be a part of the solution to address a disease that has impacted so many lives.”

More than 11,000 people died and almost 29,000 were infected in the latest outbreak in West Africa. The sheer scale of the outbreak the largest in history - led to an unprecedented push on vaccines, which condensed a decade’s work into less than a year.

The epidemic also had a devastating impact on the health systems with disruptive effects on childhood immunisation programmes. It is estimated that coverage rates for the basic DTP (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis – or whooping cough) vaccine dropped by about 30% in both 2014 and 2015 compared with 2013. This has resulted in several outbreaks of vaccinepreventable diseases and loss of confidence in the healthcare system.

Merck has led trials of the VSV-EBOV vaccine - which combines a fragment of the Ebola virus with another safer virus in order to train the immune system to beat Ebola. Early

evidence from studies in West Africa suggest it may give 100% protection, although more data is still being collected.

Dr Berkley said: “The suffering caused by the Ebola crisis was a wake-up call to many in the global health community.

“New threats require smart solutions, and our innovative financing agreement with Merck will ensure that we are ahead of the curve for future Ebola outbreaks.”

On 14 January, WHO announced that no new Ebola cases had been reported in the three worst affected countries in the preceding 42 days. However, shortly following the announcement, which included a warning that sporadic flare-ups could occur, Sierra Leone reported an Ebola-related death.

“The most recent Ebola-related death in Sierra Leone and the fact that we know the reservoirs of Ebola still exist, underline why we must learn lessons from the devastating impact of the crisis and ensure we are better prepared for infectious disease outbreaks. The world is still worryingly underprepared for potential future health threats and a change of mindset is required to ensure we invest in research and development today to protect ourselves in years to come,” added Dr Berkley GAVI’s flexible country-tailored approach has enabled the affected countries to not only reach those children who missed their routine vaccines but also to strengthen national efforts

on routine immunisation programmes as a key element of the primary health care system.

Ebola outbreaks have mainly affected rural areas in the poorest developing countries and have been brought under control quickly by local authorities. This means the development of Ebola vaccines has been a lower priority compared to other vaccines.

“Ensuring a vaccine will be available to protect people who might have missed out due to a market failure lies at the heart of what makes GAVI so important in global health,” said GAVI Board Chair Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.

“It is our moral duty to ensure that people do not miss out simply because of where they are born or whether they can afford to pay.”

In December 2014, the GAVI Board committed significant funding for the purchase of Ebola vaccines, once approved. At GAVI’s replenishment conference, held in January 2015, Dr Jacques Cholat, President of Merck Vaccines, announced the company’s commitment to provide its Ebola vaccine to the world’s poorest countries at the lowest possible, not-for-profit access price when it becomes fully licensed.

Dr Jeremy Farrar, the director of the Wellcome Trust medical research charity, said VSV-EBOV had shown “remarkable results” and was one of the “few positive outcomes” to emerge from the epidemic.

He said: “As we saw with the new confirmed case just last week, the Ebola epidemic is likely to have a long tail and it’s possible that several more isolated cases will emerge in the coming weeks and months.

“This vaccine, therefore, could still play an important role in containing any additional flare-ups of this outbreak, as well as being available to help prevent future epidemics.”

GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance is a publicprivate global health partnership committed to increasing access to immunisation in poor countries. It brings together developing country and donor governments, the World Health Organization, UNICEF, the World Bank, the vaccine industry in both industrialised and developing countries, research and technical agencies, civil society and private philanthropists led by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Asylum seekers must be treated with respect - Liberal Democrats Liberal Democrats have called on the Government to ensure that asylum seekers are treated with respect as it emerged a large number of front doors of houses in Middlesbrough used by asylum seekers had been painted red.

The properties in the North East are overseen by Jomast, a subcontractor for G4S, which holds the asylum contract for the north-east.

Suzanne Fletcher, chair of Liberal Democrats for Seekers of Sanctuary and a former local councillor raised the issue with G4S in 2012, who refused to repaint the doors.

Suzanne had met asylum seekers who did not feel safe and felt they were open to being targeted as their homes were easily identifiable.

It has taken 4 years of campaigning to get G4S to back down and for their subcontractor, Jomast, to plan to repaint the doors.

In this time Suzanne submitted evidence to the Home Affairs Select Committee, National Audit Office and the Public Accounts Committee.

Liberal Democrat Home Affairs spokesperson Alistair Carmichael said: “The idea that asylum seekers should be living in housing that is clearly marked

by the colour of their door is completely unacceptable. Those seeking asylum should be treated with dignity and respect and should not be placed in a position where they are fearing they could be on the receiving end of attacks and abuse.

“Yet again G4S have brought themselves to public attention for the wrong reasons. This is disgraceful behaviour for which there is no excuse. This sort of thing happens because of the negative and sometimes poisonous atmosphere which the Conservatives and UKIP bring to the asylum debate.”

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Friday, 22 January - Thursday, 28 January 2016

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News

BE Mogul to celebrate Black Business Owners BE Mogul is a new publication celebrating the contribution of black British business owners. On 4 February 2016 NatWest will host the launch ceremony in London where over 50 of the most innovative and successful black business owners being featured in the BE Mogul publication will be in attendance.

This exclusive event will highlight and showcase the movers-andshakers in the Black British business industry.

In addition to the profiles of successful nominees, the publication highlights the contribution of entrepreneurs of African and Caribbean origin to the UK economy and celebrates their contribution to society.

Mavis Amankwah, CEO of Rich Visions and co-founder of BE Mogul is very excited about the inaugural publication.

She said: “BE Mogul provides a platform for positive business role models, who may not have been recognised in the mainstream media, to inspire and encourage others. We want to shout loud and proud about the positive economic contribution black-owned businesses are making in Britain today.”

Daniel Thompson, Enterprise Director for NatWest, said: “Entrepreneurs are the lifeblood of the UK economy and NatWest is delighted to have the opportunity to highlight and celebrate the important contributions made by the black business industry.

“For the first time ever, there are over 5 million businesses in the UK. Our research has shown that nearly half of Britons would love to be self employed, but are held back by the belief that there isn’t enough support in their local area in terms of advice, knowledge and funding.

“As by far the biggest supporter of SMEs in the UK, NatWest is committed to identifying ways to help and support entrepreneurs. Working with BE Mogul will give us the opportunity to highlight the hard work and innovation demonstrated by these entrepreneurs while providing inspiration for budding entrepreneurs both in the black community and across the UK.”

Official messages of support have come from 10 Downing Street, GLA and also Levi Roots.

Boris Johnson praises the contribution that Black Britain’s make to society. He said: “Over 1.2 million Londoners are of black descent, almost 16% of our city’s

Mavis Amankwah, CEO of Rich Visions and co-founder of BE Mogul

population. It is obvious that black businesses and entrepreneurs have a vital role to play in our future prosperity, bringing innovation and dynamism, as well as links to overseas markets. From finance to design and retail to food, black entrepreneurs are already making a huge contribution to our city’s success.”

Today there are many successful Black British entrepreneurs, some of

whom have worked hard against all odds to make it. Unfortunately, they’re not always acknowledged for their hard work. That’s the inspiration behind the BE Mogul publication. BE Mogul aims to encourage this positive evolution by bringing successful black businesses to the attention of the mainstream media and the wider business community across the UK.

such as those with specialist IT or accountancy skills, to work alongside police officers to investigate cyber or financial crime, and help officers and staff fight crime more widely.

This Government is committed to finishing the job of police reform and the upcoming Policing and Crime Bill will help to do just that.

National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead for Citizens in Policing, Chief Constable Dave Jones said: The new approach to designating police powers will help the police service be more flexible when it comes to

attracting and deploying volunteers with valuable skills, especially in situations where the full powers of a constable are not necessary.

The onus on chief constables is to use the powers wisely, ensure they fit the needs of local policing and provide appropriate training so that they help us keep our communities safe.

A new strategy for citizens in policing is being developed; as part of this we are seeking the views of all volunteers across the police forces of the UK, looking at their roles and experience in the past and planning for the future. The new powers will form part of this strategy and give us more opportunities to harness the great appetite for volunteering in the UK. Police reforms since 2010 have brought in proper accountability, real transparency and much greater efficiency. The Policing and Crime Bill aims to finish the job of police reform by freeing up police time, ensuring forces have the right people and skills to cope with the changing nature of crime, and overhauling the police complaints and disciplinary systems to increase accountability, ensuring cases are dealt with quickly and effectively.

Police volunteers to be given more powers The Home Secretary has announced a package of reforms to the powers and roles of police staff and volunteers, enabling volunteers to be designated with powers in the same way as staff.

Since 1831, volunteer Special Constables have held all of the powers of a constable - whereas Police Support Volunteers have held none. The reforms will, for the first time, enable volunteers to be given powers without becoming a Special Constable. The government will also set out the core list of powers only available to a police officer holding the office of constable. The measures, which will form part of the Policing and Crime Bill, also include: The changes will enable volunteers and staff to work more closely with officers, helping them to police communities and keep them safe. Additionally, these reforms will help to bring new skills and expertise to policing, freeing up police officers to concentrate on core policing tasks.

For example, Hampshire and Gloucestershire forces have launched a pilot to attract volunteers with digital skills to support police digital investigations by providing technical expertise to the forces’ 4

cyber/digital teams. The pilot is due to run for six to 12 months.

Home Secretary Theresa May said: Police officers across the country carry out a wide range of duties, keeping the public safe and ensuring justice for the most vulnerable members of society. We value the essential role they play, but they cannot do this on their own.

We want to help forces to create a more flexible workforce, bring in new skills and free up officers’ time to focus on the jobs only they can carry out.

At the same time, we want to encourage those with skills in particular demand,

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Health News

Friday, 22 January - Thursday, 28 January 2016

Scientists awarded Ebola medal for service in Sierra Leone The UK Government issued a call for suitably experienced scientists to help with the mounting humanitarian crisis in West Africa caused by the Ebola outbreak In October 2014. 9 volunteers from the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) immediately offered their valuable laboratory skills.

After a week’s training the volunteers were flown out to work as part of a team of scientists and healthcare specialists at 2 British built sites in Sierra Leone, namely the Mateneh Ebola Treatment Centre, run by the International Medical Corps and a treatment centre in Port Loko, run by the charity GOAL. Both centres also housed diagnostic laboratories which had been set up by Public Health England.

APHA Chief Executive, Chris Hadkiss, presenting some of the volunteers with their medals, commented: “To volunteer to travel to an Ebola infected country, in support of the humanitarian work, was an incredibly selfless act and I commend everyone’s bravery and dedication.

“It is thanks to the efforts of all these volunteers, working alongside local healthcare workers that so many areas have been declared Ebola free and so many lives have been saved.”

The special medal, approved by Her Majesty The Queen, was awarded to those military and civilian personnel who supported the government’s response to the Ebola crisis that began in 2014.

People who have received the medal include armed forces personnel, doctors and nurses from the NHS, scientists and public health specialists and members of the civil service and non-governmental organisations.

Virologist Anna La Rocca found it a difficult but rewarding experience: “When we arrived, our main job was to test patient samples and get accurate results as soon as possible so that people could be treated or released. We also had to quickly test samples from the surrounding community to allow a rapid response to any new outbreak.”

Bacteriologist Roland Ashford commented: “The Mateneh diagnostic laboratory was of a good standard, given the location and the speed with which it had to be constructed. It had to be staffed

Anthony Fairbairn, St Helier chief executive Daniel Elkeles and Patrick O’Brien

for 16 hours a day, every day of the week in order to meet the demands for testing samples from the community.”

Biochemist Gareth Williams added: “The location of the laboratory within the Mateneh ETC meant samples could be submitted directly and the results made available within four hours. This was crucial in allowing the medical teams to

decide how patients should be managed.

“The laboratory was also used to establish when convalescing patients were no longer infectious and could be released from the treatment centre. These patients would mark their recovery by leaving a handprint on a ‘Survivors’ Wall’, which in itself was a very moving reminder of the seriousness of the outbreak.”

Flu vaccine: myths and the facts Scientists at the National Institute for Biological Standards and Control (NIBSC) dispel some of the common myths about flu vaccines.

The flu vaccine gives you the flu No, it doesn’t. The flu vaccine that is given to adults contains inactivated or ‘dead’ flu virus so there is no way it can give you the flu. There may be minor, fleeting reactions to the injection like a sore arm or slight temperature but these are common reactions to any kind of injection. Any cough or cold that appears after you get the flu vaccine was probably already in your system or caught at the same time.

One flu vaccine covers you for life The World Health Organization predicts which flu viruses will be circulating and these are different every year. NIBSC helps make the vaccines that match the new viruses. One flu vaccine will provide protection for only the flu season that year.

The flu vaccine is grown in chicken eggs Yes – at NIBSC the strains of the flu virus which are selected by the World Health Organization are mixed with egg-adapted virus strains to make sure they grow well in chicken eggs and produce a lot of antigen.

Antigen is the active substance in vaccines 6

and having a lot of this is important so manufacturers can produce the high number of doses needed.

It’s already too late if you’ve had flu this year While it is better to have the flu vaccine as soon as it becomes available, it’s always worth getting vaccinated before the end of the flu season (March).

As there are usually several flu viruses circulating each year, you could go on to catch another strain.

Children can’t get the flu vaccine They can – there is a nasal spray vaccine for children which contains live but extremely weakened flu viruses that will not give them flu. It’s recommended for all healthy children aged over six months, right up until year 2 at school.

You can only get it from your doctor While you can get the vaccination from your GP, many pharmacists have also been trained to administer the vaccination.

Flu vaccines are only for the very young or the very old While complications from the flu are most dangerous for the very young or elderly, the flu can hit strong and healthy people hard – it’s more than a heavy cold.

Antibiotics will fight flu No they won’t – flu is caused by viruses not bacteria.

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What Does the Future Hold for the UK Housing Market?

By Godwin Okri Although ‘love’ is sometimes a lustful word “a thousand times misused”, this is certainly not the case when it comes to the British love affair with bricks and mortar.

The first time buyer (FTB), buy-tolet investors (BTL), the government and the Bank of England (BOE) are all economic ‘actors’ playing a key role on the property stage. All these actors are hoping for a better future, against the backdrop of changes and uncertainty in the current UK housing market. Though it is difficult to predict, there are various factors that can act as ‘pointers’ as to how the housing market may perform in future. They are: (i) The global economy; (ii) The UK economy; (iii) Interest rates; (iv) Brexit (v) Changes to stamp duty; (vi) Changes for the mortgage interest restriction;

(vii) The Housing and Planning Bill

(i) The Global Economy It appears the world economy is now slowing down: the price of oil is falling, which is bad news for oil companies; quantitative easing embarked upon by many central banks are now being scaled back; the Russian ruble has collapse in value; the Gulf investors, who have invested heavily in the UK property market, are also repatriating their money home; and China’s economy is slowing.

Chinese government is limiting the amount an investor can take out of the country to $50,000 (£34,000) annually.

If this continues, this may affect the UK housing market. (ii) The UK Economy Whilst the global economy may be slowing down, the UK economy is reasonably sound: unemployment is 5.2%, which is the lowest for decades; the growth rate of the economy is around 2%; the interest rate is the lowest for years; etc. It is therefore of no surprise that house prices are rising. The average

Godwin Okri

property price in the UK is now almost £300,000. It could be argued that the health of the UK economy can cancel any adverse impact from the global economy. The economy of China or Russia may be slowing, but the exposure to these countries are relatively small. (iii) Interest Rates The Bank of England has kept rate at 0.5%, which is the lowest rates have ever been. The fall in the rate of inflation makes any rate hike unlikely in the foreseeable future. The collapse of the price of oil has contributed to the deflationary trend. This makes mortgage bills low, thereby creating a great environment to invest in property. (iv) Brexit Brexit is a shorthand for Britain exiting the EU. What would happen to the property market if we decide to get out of the EU? Existing the EU may lead to UK businesses being imposed with import tariff, which may affect profit and may affect jobs. EU exit may also affect London as a major financial centre.

Banks, such as Deutsche Bank (which is the largest employer in the financial sector in London) may leave the UK. This could adversely affect the economy and, eventually, the property market.

The opposing view argues that each year the UK contributes about £4.6bn to the EU, which would be saved if we leave the EU. This would benefit the economy. Secondly, the UK runs a trade deficit with our EU friends to the tune of £3bn because we buy more EU goods than we sell to them. The bulk of our international trade are from countries outside the EU. We have to wait and see whether we remain in the EU and the effect this could have on the property market. (v) Changes to Stamp Duty From 1 April 2016, stamp duty will be increased from 2% to 3% for second home worth £250,000 (higher stamp duty will be payable if the property price

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is more than £250,000). This would clearly affect the BTL market. However, the winners are the FTB, since this does not quite affect them. (vi) Mortgage Interest Restriction In the Summer Budget (2015), the Chancellor announced that restrictions would be placed on the amount of tax relief landlords could claim on mortgage interest. Most of Britain’s 2 million landlords have mortgages.

Those of modest income will clearly be hit hardest by this change. (vii) The Housing and Planning Bill 2015-16 This Bill heralds the intention of the government to build starter homes as part of the s106 agreement and, amongst others, speeding up the planning process with a view to delivering more housing.

The Bill focuses on home ownership chiefly for FTB. If the purpose of this Bill is achieved, this would see more affordable homes built, and may temper property prices.

CONCLUSION In view of the above, what the future holds may depend of the economic actor concerned.

As regards BTL investors, on the balance of probabilities, they may struggle in the immediate future. The introduction of the ‘Right to Rent’ requirement, the changes to stamp duty and the restrictions on mortgage interest relief may be steps too far. However, intelligent investors may swim (rather than sink).

As regards FTBs, they are likely to come out winners because of the introduction of ‘starter homes’, Help to Buy Scheme and the Help to Buy ISA. However, those FTBs who are unable to raise the deposits may not be able to benefit from these changes.

The Government and BOE position may remain unchanged. The government may achieve its goal because of the effect changes to stamp duty and mortgage interest may have on the BTL market. And the continuing fall of oil prices and deflation may prevent the BOE from hiking interest rates.

By Godwin Okri, author of ‘Investing in Property.

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Friday, 22 January - Thursday, 28 January 2016

Arts Culture

Comment

Random Thoughts: Fighting Corruption with Corruption

By Akintokunbo Adejumo I have been musing over the conundrum above for a very long time, even before this new dispensation of the sincere and stern President Buhari, and I can’t get it off my mind, the possibility, that is.

Corruption is defined nowadays simply as “The abuse of entrusted power for private gain”. Please don’t get me wrong, I am not a subscriber to puritanism or absolute inviolability. Corruption is part of humankind and can never be completely eradicated from the face of the earth as longs as human beings inhabit this planet.

In individuals, there is always a whiff of one kind of corruption or the other around us. Nobody is truly and totally immune.

What I always hope and strive for is reduction of corruption in our society to a manageable level and then a zerotolerance attitude to it so that it does not rear its hydra-headed ugly aspect again to reduce us to the immobilised state we are right now, and so enable us to develop and progress as a people and as a united nation.

We need a holistic and altruistic approach to fighting corruption and reducing it to a manageable level, which will not hinder our development as a people, a nation or a country as it has evidently been doing for the past 5 decades.

Corruption is something you cannot just wake up and eradicate so long as the world still exists. In many countries including the zero-tolerant China, the mighty United States, and most developed Western countries that we see today with bubbling, well-conceived, well-planned, wellimplemented and vibrant economies with high standards of living, corruption has not been crushed; it is only being checked and well-managed. We must be reminded that if these countries had not recognised, sorted out and applied effective and efficient corruption management policies and laws, their standards of living and economic powers and vibrancy would have been much devalued.

Nigeria’s new President, Muhammadu Buhari, vowed to fight corruption, but it’s too soon to tell if his efforts will be enough. Some Nigerians, mostly from the opposition camp, even doubt the man’s sincerity. Some also cast aspersion on his

government’s sincerity because of the ilk of (allegedly corrupt) party bigwigs and political appointees he has found himself surrounded with and appointed into office, ranging from ministers to backroom staff.

According to Alexis Okeowo, in her article of 14 October 2015, “Can Nigeria’s New Government Overcome Its Old Corruption?”, “Buhari chose party loyalists—like the spokesman of his All Progressives Congress, Lai Muhammed— as well as politicians such as former Lagos Governor Babatunde Fashola, who has been accused of misusing state funds.

(He denies all of the accusations.)…….

And Buhari himself was partly elected on the strength of an alliance with veteran kingmaker and southwestern politician Bola Tinubu, who was charged with the illegal operation of sixteen foreign bank accounts while he was the governor of Lagos but never convicted”.

“This is a reminder that, although Nigerians elected Buhari on a platform of change, Buhari’s victory was planned by many people who used to be part of the previous government,” said Max Siollun, a Nigerian military historian and political analyst, and concluded that. “To some extent, the ‘change’ was a rebranding exercise.”

If (theoretically) the majority of the people in government are corrupt, officials will surely be able to keep themselves safe legally. How can a nation or a disciplined and sincere, honest person (e.g. our new elected President) fight it and succeed?

Or is it a Sisyphean task – an unceasingly recurring and fruitless labour? Can a country actually save itself without a coup d’état or a bloody revolution? Has this happened before?

I believe corruption is not a problem that can be fought by “a country” or by a government (alone), but rather by “a people”. All that the “country” can do is to provide people with reasonably good and basic standard of living (water, food, electricity and good roads) and good, efficient healthcare, fairness, equality and justice (or a just and fair society where nobody is above the law), decent housing, employment and job creation, even, standardised, universal and free education.

That will give everyone a common ground to build upon, and common goals, common worldviews, all that makes people feel that they are all part of the same community.

That’s what erases the social borders, pulls down caste systems and brings up “civism” (the feeling that everyone is a citizen from a same “city”, in the Greek sense).

All these might seem insurmountable to achieve, especially now that there is a considerable downturn in the economy of the country; however, based on the

profligacy and corruption that had pervaded Nigeria for decades, and the resulting illegal flight of our commonwealth to private, selfish, materialistic pockets and foreign banks, one will see that we have unforgivably erred in this country, as from the day oil was discovered in Nigeria, again, several decades ago, all the above could have been achieved in the first two decades after Independence, and continuing on from Great Britain in 1960, if not for poor, visionless, corrupt, unsympathetic leadership and selfish, ignorant, hypocritical and complacent followers, who believed everything about their own welfare and progress should and could be left in the hands of these politician and military riffraff.

The least corrupt countries are those in which riches is better, evenly distributed and everyone can get a good education and good healthcare if wanted. When education and healthcare become a privilege and the rich are very few while the poor are too many, corruption grows like weed, breaking up social structures as it goes up and spreads around. The same applies to availability and access to good health

care, employment, housing and many other social benefits that are expected of a decent society or a responsible and decent government to provide its people.

Corruption can only be fought when everyone is actually equal before the law.

When the son of a rich man kills a poor worker while driving at 110 km/h in an inner city road like in Lagos and Abuja and the justice system lets him go, without even the police arresting him, society sees the message: the rich are above the law.

When a poor man is held in prison for years without formal accusation, just for being on the wrong place at the wrong time there is another one: you must get rich before you are given any rights. These two messages short-circuit into one: you must get rich as quick as you can, and no matter what. Since most people can’t get rich, they’ll try the next best thing: cut corners at every opportunity, as in precisely what is going on in Nigeria, where the justice system has a notorious abjection for jailing the rich, while it easily puts the ordinary poor citizens behind bars.

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Arts

Theatre, Shows and Musicals

By Edward Mirza

WEST AFRICA: WORD, SYMBOL, SONG AT THE BRITISH LIBRARY Now – February 16th, 2016

An exhibition of literature and music – from the great African empires of the Middle Ages to the cultural dynamism of West Africa today.

Fascinating stories from the region’s 17 nations show how West Africans have harnessed the power of words to build societies, drive political movements, sustain religious belief and fight injustice.

Beautiful manuscripts, historic film and sound recordings, books, photographs, and woven and printed textiles offer a unique insight into a profound and engaging literary culture with centuries-old written heritage existing alongside ancient oral traditions.

Hear the myth of the founding of ancient Mali in recorded performance. See the influence of religion through colourful fabric and a saddlebag Qur’an. Celebrate writers and artists including Africa’s first Nobel prize winner, Wole Soyinka, and internationally acclaimed musician and human rights activist Fela Kuti.

British Library, 96, Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB

KINKY BOOTS Now – May 28th 2016

The UK première of Kinky Boots, Broadway’s huge-hearted, high-heeled hit opens at London’s Adelphi Theatre on 15 September 2015, with previews from 21 August.

With a book by Broadway legend and four-time Tony® Award-winner Harvey Fierstein (La Cage Aux Folles), and songs

by Grammy® and Tony® winning pop icon Cyndi Lauper, this joyous musical celebration is about the friendships we discover, and the belief that you can change the world when you change your mind.

Inspired by true events, Kinky Boots takes you from a gentlemen’s shoe factory in Northampton to the glamorous catwalks of Milan. Charlie Price is struggling to live up to his father’s expectations and continue the family business of Price & Son. With the factory’s future hanging in the balance, help arrives in the unlikely but spectacular form of Lola, a fabulous performer in need of some sturdy new stilettos.

The Adelphi Theatre, Strand, London WC2R 0NS

ROBIN HOOD Dec 5 - Jan 23, 2016

Join Theatre Royal Stratford East this Christmas for lots of laughter, brand new songs and a sack full of festive fun in this dazzling new version of the classic tale 10

brought to you by our Olivier Awardnominated team.

Robin Hood, the prince of thieves is on a mission! Join him and his swashbuckling merry band of men as they get robbin’ the rich to feed the poor. Along the way they must undertake a quest to save good King Richard and the poor people of StratEastHam from the evil Prince John who is plotting to steal the crown. Will Robin and his motley crew save the day? Or will the feisty and fearless Maid Marion (and her devoted Nurse) get there first? And just what is the secret Marion is hiding?

The perfect Christmas treat for children of all ages, this action-packed panto features a whole host of magical surprises and plenty of joining in… oh yes it does!

Theatre Royal Stratford East, Gerry Raffles Square, Stratford, London, E15 1BN .

THE ROLLING STONE Jan 14 - February 20, 2016

Dembe and Sam have been seeing each other for a while. They should be wondering where this is going and when to introduce each other to their families. But they’re gay and this is Uganda. The consequences of their relationship being discovered will be explosive. Especially for Dembe, whose brother goes into the pulpit each week to denounce the evils of one man loving another.

The Rolling Stone was the winner of a Bruntwood Prize for Playwriting in 2013 and first premiered at the Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester, in April 2015 to critical acclaim. Chris Urch’s plays include Land of Our Fathers (Theatre503/Trafalgar Studios).

The Orange Tree Theatre1 Clarence Street, Richmond, Surrey TW9 2SA

THRILLER - LIVE Now - April 17, 2016

Thriller - Live, the spectacular concert show that celebrates the music of the world’s greatest entertainer and undisputed King of Pop, Michael and the Jackson 5, is celebrating its 2,000th West End performance on Thursday October 24.

Smashing all previous records at the Lyric Theatre, where it recently celebrated becoming the longest-running production in the theatre’s 125-year history, Thriller - Live first moonwalked into the West End in January 2009 after three acclaimed UK tours. It has just extended its West End booking period to Sunday 28 September, 2014 Several world tours have seen the show play to acclaim in 26 countries, including Germany, Italy, Poland, Denmark, Holland, Belgium, Switzerland, France, Singapore, South Africa, China, Sweden, Finland and Norway, Japan and Brazil.

More than 1 million people have seen

From Robin Jood, at the Royal Stratford East

the show at the Lyric Theatre and more than 2.5million people have seen the show worldwide.

Unlike other West End productions, Thriller - Live is not a rigid book musical with set songs, but is a constantly evolving music concert celebration. When Michael Jackson died, the Lyric theatre became a focus for fans from all over the world, who created a massive shrine of flowers, candles, and tributes. More than 40 books of condolence were signed in the foyer then sent to the Jackson family. A year after his death, a permanent West End memorial to Michael was unveiled in the theatre foyer. Thriller - Live brings to life on stage the distinctive high-energy dancing and pulsating sound of many of pop’s greatest hits, blending eye-popping video footage and effects together with dazzling choreography by the show’s award-winning director Gary Lloyd.

The show has regularly been updated with additional songs, new visuals and choreography.

Thriller - Live was originally conceived and created by Adrian Grant, a long time associate of Michael Jackson, and author of Michael Jackson – The Visual Documentary. Thriller - Live is produced by Paul Walden and Derek Nicol for Flying Music in association with Adrian Grant for Key Concerts.

Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue London W1D 7ES

NINE LIVES BY ZODWA NYONI NATIONAL TOUR Now - Jan 2016 Presented by Leeds Studio in association with West Yorkshire Playhouse Fleeing from his home in Zimbabwe where a fresh wave of homophobia threatens his life, Ishmael has sought sanctuary in the UK. Dispersed to Leeds, Ishmael waits to hear his fate, he waits for a new life to begin amongst strangers. Strangers who don’t trust him and don’t want him there.

But not everyone is bad… can he find a place to call home again?

Some of us wanted to stop being afraid.

Some of us wanted to find ourselves.

Some of us wanted to belong.

Zodwa Nyoni (West Yorkshire Playhouse/Channel 4 Writer in Residence 2014) threads together humour and humanity to tell the real personal story behind asylum headlines.

16 November 2015 Waterside Arts Centre, Trafford 19 November 2015 Arc Stockton, Stockton on Tees 10 December 2015 Brighton, Brighton January 2016 Arcola, London

Friday, 22 January - Thursday, 28 January 2016

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Culture

The Rise of Afrobeats in Current Popular Music Culture

By Michaela Brown The new sound of the UK underground scene has now secured its place firmly into popular culture.

So much is its impact that it’s now sparking the interests of the US and global music markets.

It stems from the musical stylings of Afrobeat (the ‘s’ was added by UK DJ Abrantee to reflect the difference in the younger funkier beat).

Groups such as the London Afrobeat Collective are championing the more traditional sound of Africa through instrumentals, but Afrobeats is the new en-trend music genre for the younger generation, who were brought up on the sounds of Hip-Hop, Funky House and Dancehall.

Its popularity is most obviously reflected in its chart success – with D’Banj’s 2012 hit, ‘Oliver Twist’, being the first Afrobeats single to make it into the top 10 of the UK charts.

Off the back of D’Banj’s achievements, other Afrobeats artists have joined the scene and also shared in his chart success the most mainstream being: Fuse ODG, P Square and OMI. Afrobeats owes its systematic rise, in part, to the radio DJs of BBC 1xtra and Capital Xtra in particular. They’ve championed the genre and continue to do so, as it showcases the vibrance, youth and liveliness of their listeners and incidentally of the African culture as a whole. Portraying Africa in a positive light and uniting the African nations, which were previously hugely under represented in mainstream music.

The Afrobeats culture is going from strength to strength, and appears unwaning. As BBC 1xtra’s DJ Edu states ‘Afrobeats is here to stay: it originates from the heart of the challenges that face the continent and, in breaking boundaries, is uniting Africa like never before’.

Afrobeats is integral to the changing face of Africa, as a proud and culturally enriched nation. It can only be positive that the western world is now embracing that through music.

D’Banj

Kunle Ayo answers London call

Two years after South African based Nigerian jazz musician, Kunle Ayo, performed at his Live in London Concert and DVD recording in London, he has finally responded to the calls for seconds, and is returning to the English City.

The well-travelled guitarist of note, who has performed with top names such as Norman Brown (US), Al Jerreau (US), Kirk Whalum (US), Hugh Masekela (SA), Dave Koz (US), Jonathan Butler (US/SA), Oliver Mtukudzi (Zimbabwe), Yvonne Chaka Chaka (SA) amongst many, will hit The Jazz Café on 09th March, 2016.

His ‘Kunle Ayo Live in London Concert II, will feature the legendary reggae name Majek Fashek’, as a special guest artist, and many more.

The call for the multiple award-winner (Kora all Africa awards, Channel O African Music Video Awards, Metro FM Music Awards, Nigerean Achievement Awards) to return, after he recently scooped the continental Afrima Best African Jazz Artist, has been unrelenting after numerous O Channel (Sky Channel 199) showings of the concert in 2015. “We have been getting a high amount of request to return to London, after every screening of the show,” says the artist who has produced for Simphiwe Dana, Bra Hugh, Oliver Mtukudzi , Judith Sephuma and for Sibongile Khumalo. “The message has been the same after it is broadcasted. When are

Kunle Ayo

you coming back is the line always. Well, we have finally headed the calls and going back.”

Kunle says the show is for those who have been dying to delve into what Kunle is about and Nigerian jazz music “to come together and have a good time”. He also says this is an opportunity to re-introduce his fans to his old songs (like ‘Joromi’ & Olorun.mi) and some of his latest material.

He also says this once in a life-time opportunity will also give him a chance to showcase an icon. “People who grew up in the 90’s grew up on his sounds, and they had asked that I bring him along whenever I returned. We will be performing some of his popular tracks together.”

Tickets are 15 pounds (regular), and 25 pounds (VIP) at all registered ticket outlets orwww.thejazzcafelondon.com .

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Friday, 22 January - Thursday, 28 January 2016

News

Indonesia

Bali on alert following threat of 2002 repeat

Police in Bali are treating an anonymous letter threatening a terrorist attack on the island very seriously following last week’s bombings by Islamist militants in Jakarta.

“The letter was sent by an anonymous individual to Buleleng district, and the police are still conducting an investigation, and trying to find out who sent the letter. But again, I urge people in Bali not to be afraid, but they should stay alert,” said Bali Police Chief Sugeng Priyanto. Authorities say they’ve increased security at shopping malls and other locations that draw crowds in Bali.

In 2002, the popular resort island was targeted by Jemaah Islamiyah (JI), an Indonesia-based terrorist group with links to al-Qaida. The bombing at a club killed 202 people, mostly young foreigners. The bombing severely hurt Indonesia’s tourism industry, and began a

202 people from over twenty nations lost their lives when a Bali nightclub was bombed in October 2002

decade of deadly plots in Indonesia carried out by Southeast Asian militants affiliated with al-Qaida.

Indonesia successfully combated the JI related terrorist threat through police action, intelligence operations and high profile criminal prosecutions. However, after last week’s attack in the centre of Jakarta that killed eight people, including four militants, Indonesian security forces are raising concerns that more and deadlier attacks could follow, carried out by groups inspired by Islamic State.

The Jakarta attack was the first of its kind in Southeast Asia to be attributed to Syria-based militant Islamists.

Authorities say about 500 Indonesians have travelled to the Middle East to join the extremist group. About 100 are believed to have returned, although experts say only about 15 have combat experience.

Random Thoughts: Fighting Corruption with Corruption

Continued from page 9

It is impossible to fight fire with fire; that’s only a saying. You can’t fight flooding with water and you can’t fight corruption with corruption. Perhaps you can tolerate a little corruption while you fight bigger corruption (I am not convinced though) but you can’t actively use corruption as that.

“Corruption” is not something material that can be isolated and controlled that easily. In that respect, it is harder to control than either fire or water. In theory, large ice blocks could be used to divert a flood or to dam it; it is impractical, but it is at least physically possible (the ice would melt eventually, but you would be able to buy time).

In theory, controlled fire could be used to clear a boundary around a larger area that is under firestorm, and then cool the ashes with water and hope that no sparks fly over and spread the fire further. It is however impractical, unsafe and for the most part ineffective, but at least it is a conceivable strategy. But how could you corrupt people and institutions with the intention of fighting corruption? Sounds like spreading diseases with the goal of increasing public health.

I suppose that all countries face this problem eventually. Assuming that the

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government wants people’s cooperation with the change:

• Make the new regime fair to ALL people; no scared cows, no vindictiveness or revenge or witchhunting.

• Explain the new regime to ALL the people; educate them, let there be full truthful information dissemination, no propaganda.

• Change the rules – change the way things are done, get rid of civil servants and other public officials resistant to change.

• Forgive all past sins with the understanding that they are not to be repeated (this is very tough on my sentiments, because I believe, like the Bible says, sinners must not go unpunished) If taking bribes has traditionally, as it has now become in Nigeria, been a large part of income, expect to increase pay, or introduce generous allowances, to compensate for the loss of bribes and kickbacks. The government should also be prepared to clearly explain the ways in which corruption damages society. People react with less hostility to changes they can plan for and they struggle less against regime change that doesn’t destroy them.

Oh ... and the government should put its foot down to crush any resistance immediately. It is far easier to ease up on compliant people than it will ever be to put your foot down a little at a time.

But there are some views that you can fight corruption with corruption, but only as a means to an end. But it won’t work long run. Other people will see the hypocrisy. A responsible and sincere government requires all citizens to be ethical and willing to eliminate, or at least combat and reduce, corruption.

It is a sort of consensus morality. It cannot tolerate exceptions.

If you think the income inequality comparisons are toxic, wait until people get a whiff of corruption. The comparisons and envy will be off the scale.

But generally, fighting corruption with corruption doesn’t work. One may temporarily get some good results but it winds up undermining whatever ideals one believes one is fighting for. Then the negative consequences begin to multiply.

In theory, it doesn’t make sense, but there could be a way. If you think that corruption is where you use money to make things happen that shouldn’t, it could be argued that you could carry on accepting corruption payments, but

not actually fulfilling your part of the deal. That way you are using corruption against corruption to get the right outcome.

Nigeria is a country where things are only done when people pay an extra cost for things to be done faster. Maybe they want their goods cleared for export or import in less than a few weeks, or maybe they want a planning permission arranged against the local interest. In this corrupt society, people are forced to pay these extra costs, and the cycle carries on. Using corruption to kill corruption, the charges would continue, but the officials would not speed up the process or make decisions against the local interest.

The people who made the payments would get upset, but in time they would learn that there is no advantage to paying a bribe, and the level of service would remain the same. The problem is that you can’t stop corruption from the official side, only from the supply side. If people stop believing that corruption works, they will stop using it as a tool. Education and Re-orientation of our people is needed here, but will take decades. Or maybe not!

Guess it depends on if you believe the end justify the means.

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Friday, 22 January - Thursday, 28 January 2016

Turkey

Turkish PM issues peace talks veto to Syrian Kurds

Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu has raised objections to the participation of Syrian Kurdish group the Democratic Union Party (PYD) in Syria peace talks.

Wednesday’s newspapers reported Davutoğlu, who paid a visit to the UK on January 18 and 19, as saying that the PYD represented a “direct threat to Turkey” and cannot attend the peace talks in Syria, originally planned to be held on January 25.

Arbil-based BasNews reported on Monday that officials from the Syrian government and the PYD met in Kamışlı province in northern Iraq. According to the report, the Syrian regime was in favour of the PYD’s participation in the UN-brokered peace talks and discussed the issue with Kurdish officials.

Turkey considers the PYD a terrorist organization which has links to the terrorist Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK).

The PYD, however, recently emerged as a leading force in the fight against the ter-

Turkish PM Ahmet Davutoğlu

rorist Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) and is not considered a terrorist or-

ganization by major countries such as the US.

Turkey also differs with countries such as Russia and Iran in their stance over the future of embattled Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad.

Davutoğlu reiterated Turkey’s opposition to Assad, saying that he should go “as early as possible, because Syrians do not want to see him in that post.”

The UN said on Monday it would not issue invitations to peace talks between the Syrian government and opposition groups until major countries behind the peace process reach an agreement on which rebel representatives should attend.

The countries driving the diplomatic initiative on Syria include the US, Russia and other European and Middle Eastern powers, such as rival countries Saudi Arabia and Iran.

According to UN diplomats, it is increasingly likely that UN brokered talks between Syria’s government and opposition groups will be delayed.

The process aims at establishing a transitional government and eventual elections in Syria.

Uruguay

Vets unearth prehistoric car-sized armadillo

Two vets with an interest in palaeontology believe they have found the fossilised shell of a 10,000year-old car-sized armadillo near the bank of a river in southern Uruguay.

Dr Geraldo Haran and colleague Feliciano Rosas found what they describe as the body armour of a Glyptodon while digging alongside the Santa Lucia River, which forms the border between Florida Department and Canelones Department.

A Glyptodon was part of the superorder of placental mammals known as Xenarthra. This clade of mammals also includes anteaters, tree sloths, armadillos, and extinct ground sloths and pampatheres. Its main food sources were plants and insects.

Glyptodonts (the family grouping) are believed to have grown to around the size of a VW Beetle. During the Pleistocene epoch, the creatures habituated Patagonia and farther north. They are the ancestors of present-day armadillos with similarly round, bony shells and squat limbs.

The weight of the animal whose remains were uncovered by the two vets

Glyptodon fossil specimen at the Naturhistorisches Museum in Vienna

could have been up to 1.5 tons, reportedly the largest of the extinct species to have ever been found in the South American country.

In an interview with Spanish international news agency EFE, Dr Haran said he and Rosas unearthed the armadillo’s shell accidentally. They were originally

digging for “small fossils” when they encountered a “shell” that measured 1.77 metres (about 5 feet 9 inches) across.

“We went together to the bank of the Santa Lucia River. That morning, we began the search and found the shell ...

We’re very excited,” Haran said.

He added that when they made the discovery, they decided to inform local authorities and palaeontologists working at Montevideo’s Natural History Museum. The museum is set to conduct various studies on the shell to know more about the extinct species.

The Uruguayan army and the provincial government provided help during the transfer of the massive shell from the site of the dig to the laboratory, where palaeontologists will be examining it in detail.

Florida Governor Carlos Enciso told EFE he considers the 10,000-year-old armadillo discovery “of great importance,” adding that the state is offering its help to the researchers when it comes to logistical conditions so they can perform their studies on the fossil further.

“There is a history museum in the province ... and it will have a room made available for this find,” Enciso stated.

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Friday, 22 January - Thursday, 28 January 2016

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CRIME

Cocaine gang behind bars

Members of an organised criminal network who distributed cocaine in north London were jailed at Harrow Crown Court on Friday, 15 January.

The group of Albanian nationals operated from a variety of addresses across north London and were arrested following a long-term, intelligence led operation by officers from the Serious and Organised Crime Command.

Four men were sentenced after pleading guilty to conspiracy to supply Class A drugs (16kg of cocaine) and possession of criminal property.

Gentian Cuka, 38, described as the leader of the group, of Fox Lane, N13 was sentenced to 10 years’ and four months imprisonment. He was also given a 12 month sentence and a six month sentence to run concurrently for POCA (Proceeds of Crime Act) offences.

Skender Toci, 37 of Mountfield Road, N3 was sentenced to seven years’ and eight months imprisonment. He was given an eight month sentence to run concurrently for POCA (Proceeds of Crime Act) offences.

Besnik Mansaku, 40 of Mountfield Road, N3 was sentenced to seven years’ and four months imprisonment. He was given a six month sentence to run concurrently for POCA (Proceeds of Crime Act) offences.

Abdul Topcu, 41 of Jules Thorn Avenue, EN1 was sentenced to seven years’ four months imprisonment. He was given a four year and four months sentence to run concurrently for POCA (Proceeds of Crime Act) offences.

Mentor Muslika, 33 of Cunard Crescent, N21, had his sentencing adjourned to a date to be confirmed.

Seized Cocaine Stack

Another man, Elvis Vladi, 35 of Cester Street, E8 was found not guilty of the above offences.

Over the course of four months, officers carried out surveillance on the group, monitoring their movements and gathering evidence which could be used against them.

This surveillance revealed Cuka as the mastermind of the group; directing operations and arranging how and who to distribute their drugs to.

On 19 May 2015, officers swooped on an address Cuka was using in Hannah Court, Southgate. They had observed Mansaku leaving the address with a bag; officers stopped him and a violent struggle ensued. Once Mansaku was detained, officers searched the bag and found two 1kg packages of cocaine inside.

Cuka was also arrested as he left the ad-

dress a short time later and when officers searched inside the property they discovered 11 bags of cocaine, each weighing 1kg, as well as £3,100 in cash.

Officers then attended another address they had been keeping watch on in Mountfield Road, N3. Inside they found Toci who was also arrested. A search of the address recovered a further £4,000 in cash.

Further investigation led police to Jules Thorn Avenue, Enfield on 16 June where Topcu was arrested and over £50,000 cash was recovered, along with a number of high value watches and a Kruggerand [a South African gold coin] with an estimated value of £800.

Muslika was found at his home in Cunard Crescent, N21 and over £12,000 cash was recovered. Officers also found receipts for various high value goods which had been paid for in cash, such as designer

A fifth man - Abdi Wahab Mohammed, 26 (10.02.89) of Down Way, Northolt who had driven them to and from the scene, was found guilty of causing section 18 grievous bodily harm.

All five will be sentenced on Friday, 22 January.

Police were called at around 01:30hrs on 14 June 2015 to a man stabbed at the Emerald supermarket in Staines Road, Feltham.

The 29-year-old victim had gone into the shop with a friend when he was set upon by four of the defendants. The group punched him to the ground before carrying out a prolonged attack where he was stabbed in excess of 15 times, with some of the stab wounds penetrating his heart, lung and liver.

Following the attack - which appears to have been motivated by a previous dispute with the victim - the men fled in a waiting car.

Police officers first on scene administered first aid and a doctor from London’s Air Ambulance performed emergency surgery in the street in order to save the man’s life.

The victim was taken to St Mary’s Hospital, where he underwent further life-saving surgery. He was discharged from hospital 10 days later.

The five men were arrested on 17 June 2015 by detectives from the Met’s Homicide and Major Crime Command.

A trial at the Old Bailey heard how the four younger members of the group had carried out the attack inside the shop.

handbags, wallets and electrical goods.

DC Liam Hurley from the Met’s Serious and Organised Crime Command, said: “This group thought they could operate with impunity, supplying large quantities of drugs to be distributed across the streets of London.

“However, due to the diligent work of the Serious and Organised Crime Command, Cuka and his associates are now facing a lengthy spell behind bars.

“Drugs blight communities and we will work to pursue those who seek to profit from the plight of others and put them behind bars.”

Earlier this year, four other people linked to this criminal network were convicted of the following offences: Anthony Carolan, 41 of Lady Margaret Road, NW5 pleaded guilty at Snaresbrook Crown Court on 10 August 2015 to possession with intent to supply class A drugs (1kg of cocaine). He was jailed for five years and six months.

Urim Serini, 44 of King Edwards Road, Enfield pleaded guilty at Harrow Crown Court on 27 February 2015 to possession with intent to supply class A drugs (1kg of cocaine). He was jailed for three years and four months.

Jamal Marcano, 21 of Solomon Avenue, N9 pleaded guilty at Wood Green Crown Court on 16 July 2015 to possession with intent to supply class A drugs (1kg of cocaine). He was jailed for four years.

Hyrushe Tobli, 24 (01.09.91) of Cunard Crescent, N21 pleaded guilty to possession of a false identity document. She was jailed for eight months.

Four men guilty of attempted murder

Four men have been convicted of the attempted murder of a man who only survived their frenzied knife attack due to the first aid given by police officers and the actions taken at the scene by doctors and paramedics from London’s Air Ambulance.

The men were found guilty of attempted murder on Tuesday, 19 January at the Old Bailey.

They are: Mohammed Mohammed, 21 of Copley Close, Hanwell; Zakariya Ibrahim, 19 of Chesham Terrace, Ealing; and, two men of no fixed address: Saad Sharif, 19 and Hanad Mohammed, 19.

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Top left to bottom right: Hanad Mohammed, Zakariya Ibrahim,, Mohammed Mohammed , and Saad Sharif

Friday, 22 January - Thursday, 28 January 2016

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Sounds of Diaspora People of America

The Oscars: a pale reflection of merit in Hollywood?

Actor/director Spike Lee and actress Jada Pinkett Smith are the highest profile stars so far to have announced plans to boycott the Oscars in protest over a lack of diversity amongst this year’s nominees.

Lee said on Instagram he “cannot support” what he termed the “lily white” awards show, while Pinkett Smith said in a video message on Facebook that she would not be attending or watching the awards ceremony.

President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Cheryl Boone Isaacs, has responded by saying she is taking action to “alter the make-up” of the Academy’s membership. Boone Isaacs, an African American, praised the “wonderful work” of the nominees but said she was “heartbroken” at the lack of diversity.

She added that “dramatic steps” were being taken, saying: “In the coming days and weeks we will conduct a review of our membership recruitment in order to bring about much-needed diversity in our 2016 class and beyond.”

The Academy’s 6,300 members, made up of people from the film industry, vote on who is nominated for the Oscars each year. Of this 6,300, only six percent identify as Black or Multi-Ethnic (BME).

In 2012, the Los Angeles Times conducted a study to find out how diverse the Academy membership is. Reporters spoke to thousands of Academy members and their representatives to confirm the identities of more than 5,100 voters – some 81 percent of the voting members.

They found that: Oscar voters are nearly 94% Caucasian and 77% male. Black members make up about 2% of the Academy, and Latino members less than 2%.

Oscar voters have a median age of 62.

People younger than 50 constitute just 14% of the membership.

Some of the Academy’s 15 branches are almost exclusively white and male. Caucasians currently make up 90% or more of every Academy branch except actors, whose membership is 88% white.

Men make up more than 90% of five branches, including cinematography and visual effects.

“This is a difficult but important conversation, and it’s time for big changes,” Boone Isaacs said.

“As many of you know, we have implemented changes to diversify our membership in the last four years. but the change is not coming as fast as we would like.

We need to do more, and better and more quickly.”

She said such a move was not “unprecedented” for the Academy, and that in the 60s and 70s younger members were recruited and that today’s mandate was

about inclusion: “gender, race, ethnicity and sexual orientation”.

Boone Isaacs has also tried to make the show on 28 February more diverse, bringing in black comedian Chris Rock to host.

This is the second year in a row there have been boycott calls, sparked by a list of nominees that is mostly white.

Among those overlooked for this year’s Oscar nominations were the NWA biopic Straight Outta Compton for best picture and Pinkett Smith’s husband Will Smith, for best actor in American Footballthemed film Concussion.

Pinkett Smith said on Facebook: “Begging for acknowledgement, or even asking, diminishes dignity and diminishes power. And we are a dignified people and we are powerful.”

She and Lee made their announcement on Martin Luther King Jr Day, a national holiday in the US to remember the Civil Rights leader, who was assassinated in 1968.

“Forty white actors in two years and no flava at all,” said Lee. “We can’t act?!”

Hollywood trade paper The Wrap spoke anonymously to some Academy members, many of whom applauded Isaacs’ comments.

“They’re not embarrassed today,” one Academy member and former governor said.

“They’re disgusted.”

Another member said: “The problem is not the nominations. It’s the make-up of the Academy, and more than that the make-up of Hollywood.”

Another said: “The irony is, if Hollywood is not open to diversity, then we’re in real trouble as a country, because Hollywood is supposed to be liberal and open.”

But others were sceptical: “Any way you slice it, it’s a knee-jerk reaction,” one member told The Wrap.

Speaking on Radio 4’s Today programme on Tuesday, Doctor Who actor Colin McFarlane, said of Lee’s decision to not attend the Oscars: “You’ve got to be at the party to change the conversation but I completely understand the frustration - black actors are being written out of history.

“The game is changing and I think it needs to change on both sides of the Atlantic - the Baftas and the Oscars - and there should be more women. “(Black) kids need to see themselves on TV and in the movies.”

Last year, there were similar calls to boycott the Oscars ceremony but Lee and Pinkett Smith are the first high-profile figures to carry out the threat. Neil Patrick Harris presented the show and the audience figures were down 16% to a six-year low.

The hashtag “OscarsSoWhite” was heavily used after Thursday’s announcement.

The Reverend Al Sharpton, an outspoken critic of the racial prejudice in American society, said: “Hollywood is like the

Oscars head Cheryl Boone Isaacs plans to “conduct a review of [Academy] membership recruitment in order to bring about much-needed diversity” going forward.

Rocky Mountains, the higher up you get the whiter it gets and this year’s Academy

Awards will be yet another Rocky Mountain Oscar.”

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Friday, 22 January - Thursday, 28 January 2016

Gospel

YOU’VE CROSSED OVER TO YOUR SEASON OF GREATER EXPLOITS! PART 2

By Michael Adekoya

Bible says, “Now it shall come to pass in the latter days that the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established on the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow to it.” (Isaiah 2:2)

Dear Readers, I shared with you in the first part of this message last week that we serve the only and true God of time and seasons and He makes all things beautiful in its time (Eccl.

3:11). It’s a blatant true! It’s our understanding of the time and the season in which we live now and knowing what to do, like the Sons of Issachar, as recorded in 1 Chro. 12:32, that will put us in command of the beauty of the season we just entered in this year. As a Church - children and family of God - we are now in our glorious seasons. It has started!

In one of His discussions with the Pharisees (those who have eyes but can’t see far), Jesus challenged these religious people on the issue of knowing the signs of the times. He said, “You know how to discern the signs in the sky, but you cannot discern the signs of the times” (Matt. 16:1-3).

Here, Jesus was talking about the fact that people can foretell the kind of weather for tomorrow by looking at visible sky but cannot see into the spirit realms. Therefore they are completely out of tune with the great spiritual events of their time.

My friend, listen! That of course, could well be expected from people who do not know the Lord, but it should never be the case with the Church, with us. It is therefore crucial that the Church – you, me and every Christian – must have a clear and unblurred focus, divine eyesight and discernment today. Only a clear prophetic vision will provide us with direction, decision and determination in our work for the Kingdom of God in this glorious season. If our eye is single (not double vision), our body will be full of light (Matt. 6:22) You will agree with me that the world is getting darker. There are crises everywhere – in many families, in the church, in global finance, in governments, in employment, the list goes on. People, both in the world and in governments, are fearful, confused and perplexed as they face problems, challenges and circumstances for which there are no natural solutions. And, the elect who are not planted and grounded well in

the Word of God are now compromising, backsliding or bolting out. This is not the will of God for us in these latter days!

Prophet Joel prophesied that, “it shall come to pass in the latter days that the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established on the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow to it” (Isaiah 2:2). My friend, I may not know what you have gone through or the challenge you are facing today but one thing I know is that the above Scripture is announcing the definite emergence of the exalted Church, one that will be enthroned with authority, beauty and glory. And that includes you and me!

My friend, may I say this! Heaven have started releasing the Church - children of the Most High God - into the fullness of her redemptive colour. God is now raising men and women, including youths of supernatural authority in the Church with assignments to communities, cities, villages, governments and to the market places.

They are men and women of dominion who will command the attention of nations. Listen! You can’t afford to be left out in what God is doing today. We have crossed over to glorious days of the Church.

God is going to manifest Himself in an unprecedented way. It’s time for the awak-

­­

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

16

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

ening the world has never seen before.

The Church of Jesus Christ is coming on a power and authority frequency, into the realms of purity, prayer, power, perfect praise, beauty, glory, honour, distinction and supernatural that will herald Jesus’ return. We’re living in the days of the dominion of the saints of God, endowed with the supernatural ability to confront oppositions with confidence. My friend, I see you as part of this end-time God’s Army.

Joel saw into the season we are now living in and prophesied the emergence of a great and strong Army right from the midst of the gloominess and darkness which the world is in today (read Joel 2:2). My friend, God is now raising up His Army – believers designed to enjoy strange affluence, inexplicable abundance, endued with power and authority and command overflow wealth to take the Gospel to every part of the world. They will be men and women of unquestionable dominion. You are part of this Army of God! Outside the camp of the end-time God’s Army will be great sufferings and afflictions. While there are salary cuts and labour losses around them, wealth and riches will be in their houses. They will live their days in prosperity and their years in pleasures because they are people who obey

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

God completely. Nations will identify and respect them as they will be modern day Elijahs ordained to decide the destinies of nations (1 Kings 17:11). The darkness around is what will make their distinction remarkable as lights of the world.

Speaking about the end-time church – about you, me and believers of Jesus Christ, the Bible says, “Many peoples will come and say, “Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the temple of the God of Jacob. He will teach us his ways, so that we may walk in his paths.” The law will go out from Zion(from the Church), the word of the Lord from Jerusalem. He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples.” (Isa 2:3-4). Did you hear that?

The law, which connotes authority, will go out from the Church. That means the Church will become the ruling authority on the earth, either in commerce, government, industries, finance, merchandise, evangelism or in every profession. My friend, authority for every field of human endeavour will proceed from the Church. We are in that glorious season! My friend, hear me.

Industries, governments, communities, even nations will call to seek your help as from this year 2016.

Listen! You are one of the Joseph’s, Daniel’s, Nehemiah’s, Elijah’s, Esther’s and Deborah’s generation. You are one of the City Changers, Pace Setters, Solution Bearing Agents that God has on this earth today. You have crossed over to your glorious season of greater exploits. Anywhere the sole of your foot step upon, the Lord will give it unto you. Anything you lay your hands upon shall prosper. Jesus says, “He that believes on Me, the works that I do shall he do also, and greater shall he do.” (John 14:12). Did you hear that? My friend, you are born and saved for dignity, prominience and for exploits. Your hour, time and season has come to shine! …to be continued.

Remain blessed!

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 Forth-

nightly 12am Sunday Service: Sundays 10am - 1pm Winners’ Chapel London- part of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, at 1 Churchill Close, Green Street, Green Road, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1QE meets Sunday 7.30am, 9.15am and 11am and Wednesdays at 7pm.

For details call: 01322 292097 Christ Apostolic Church, Surrey Docks District, Solution Centre, 47-47 High Street, Swancombe, Kent, DA10 0DA Tel: 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

Friday, 22 January - Thursday, 28 January 2016

Africa Newsround

Kenya

Cover-up accusations as sect leader trial begins The trial for murder of the leader of a fringe Christian sect in Angola began on Monday (January 18) in the southern Angola city of Huambo.

Jose Julino Kalupeteka, leader of a millenarian sect called Luz do Mundo (Light of the World), is on trial for the murder of nine police officers who died during a security force operation to arrest him last year. However, critics claim that over a thousand of Kalupeteka’s followers were slaughtered by security officers in the same raid-turned-massacre.

On 16 April, 2015, police, who raided a compound on Mount Sumi near Huambo to arrest Kalupeteka on unspecified charges, were met by some resistance by his followers. At least one police officer was killed in the ensuing scuffle before the army was called in. What followed was a massive crackdown in which over a thousand of people are alleged to have died. Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to verify what happened because the mountain area has been sealed by the army since.

Angelo Kapwatcha, an Angolan professor and human rights activist, is compiling a report about those killed in the alleged massacre.

“We get more reports every day,” he said. “There may be up to 2,000 deaths.”

Kapwatcha and his team have analysed reports from several opposition politicians and journalists who visited the scene after the attack. Several soldiers who participated in the action also leaked videos to activists that show the clean-up

Jose Kalupeteka speaking with journalists (left) and after his arrest

of dozens of bodies.

The government, for its part, has only confirmed the deaths of 13 members of Luz do Mundo, who they say were “snipers” responsible for gunning down the dead officers.

Didier Pescard, a professor at the University of Geneva who has spent years researching Angola, doesn’t think that the alleged massacre will come up at Kalupeteka’s trial.

“The interest of the regime is to show that Kalupeteka is responsible for the deaths of those police officers. I would be surprised if the trial gave any time to the part of the story where hundreds of men, women and children probably died,” he said.

Already, the first day of the trial wasn’t looking good for Pastor Kalupeteka.

Human rights activist Kapwatcha was at the trial in Huambo on Monday.

“The police did not allow us to enter,” he said. “The attorneys and the family of Pastor Kalupeteca did not enter. Even around court, there were soldiers so there wasn’t freedom. The atmosphere was not good.”

Mr Kapwatcha thinks that the trial is the government’s way of “putting an end to the church”.

Since the killings, the government has described church members as violent, religious fanatics. They’ve also linked the church to the opposition, UNITA, even though there is no evidence of this.

Pescard thinks that the church and its followers made the government nervous.

“I think that this trial and the massacre are the expression of a double insecurity.

On the one hand, the success of the church itself is an expression of the feeling of insecurity for the rural population in Angola. The regime, on the other hand,

fears anything that might look like civilian movements of rebellion.”

Luz do Mundo, which broke away from the established Seventh-Day Adventists church in Angola, may have brought together a large groups of people, but there doesn’t seem to be evidence that it was rebelling against Angola’s leading party, the MPLA, in any way.

Despite the high number of alleged dead and the many uncertainties around the trial, there has been little press about it. Paulo Ingles, a doctoral student in Germany who studies post-conflict Angola, said there were many reasons for this.

“There is a kind of indifference because it happened in Huambo. I think if this had happened in Luanda, maybe it would be would be different,” said Ingles, who is originally from the Angolan Central Highlands, where the incident took place.

“Also, there is an economic crisis going on in Angola. Finally, the government controls information and many people believe what officials say about the church being full of fanatics.”

Neither has the trial been getting much international press. Many countries are currently forging economic ties with oil and diamondrich Angola and are treading very lightly in terms of criticism on human rights issues.

The raids were launched as a part of a drive against fringe Christian church groups now illegal under new rules that require denominations to have 100,000 registered members spread across at least a third of Angola’s 18 provinces. Luz do Mundo is thought to have no more than 3,000 members.

Palace of Justice a “gift” from China Guinea-Bissau

China’s ambassador to GuineaBissau described the country’s new Palace of Justice, built and paid for by the Chinese government, as “a gift” to the people of Guinea and its government at the weekend.

Ambassador Huang Hua, who made the statement during a visit to the new building with the Prime Minister of Guinea-Bissau, Carlos Correia, said the Palace of Justice would benefit the Guinean people and contribute to the strengthening the rule of law in both

countries.

The construction of the Palace of Justice, with a floor area of 10,000 square metres, was funded by China and its construction contract awarded to the China Jiangsu Construction Corporation, Ltd, a large state-owned company specialised in construction and public works both in China and abroad.

Also as part of bilateral cooperation, Chinese engineers began preparing construction of more than 200 social houses and the installation of a 36-kilometre solar lighting network in Bissau.

The Palace of Justice has a floor area of some 10,000 square metres - the size of two average soccer pitches

17

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Friday, 22 January - Thursday, 28 January 2016

Nigerian News

Nigeria’s Economy Is At The State Of Dilemma – Aregbesola

The Governor of the State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has decried the continuous fall in the global prices of the crude oil which had orchestrated a continued dwindling in the revenues accruable to Nigeria and other oil producing state.

Governor Aregbesola who attributed the current economic imbroglio in the states of the federation to what he regarded as the adverse effect of the present economic downturn in the oil sector across the world.

Governor Aregbesola made the statement while addressing the people during the 2nd Guest Personality Lecture organized by the Law Students of Osun State University, College of Law, at Ifetedo Campus.

Governor Aregbesola said Nigeria’s economy has gotten to the state of dilemma, saying efforts should be urgently intensified all and sundry to rescue the nation from the bring of collapse.

Analyzing the causes of the current economic challenges, Aregbesola said the nation wouldn’t have been entangled if the past administrations especially the administration of the erstwhile President Goodluck Jonathan was not characterized with palpable corruption.

Governor Aregbesola who lamented over the way and manner at which the nation’s treasury and fortunes were being managed in the past said monumental corruption has been the bane of socio-political and economic retrogression in the country.

He said, “it is unfortunate that our leaders in the past led us to this economic mess due to their deliberate insensibility and corruption.

“It is also regrettable and disheartening that we have experienced the worst economic situation in history due to present huge fall in the oil prices which adverse effects had been spread across government at all levels.

“Our administration was the first in Nigeria to cry out on the economic effects of the alleged oil theft during the immediate past administration of President Goodluck Jonathan which later snowballed into the continuous depreciation in the prices of crude oil at the international market.

“Specifically, in July 2013, we decried the incessant oil theft being allegedly proclaimed by the immediate past administration, as we brilliantly told Nigerians to rise to our call and seek for transparency in the management of the oil sector.

“So incredible, we were misinterpreted and viewed as critiques, but now we have been vindicated as what we were fighting against later appeared openly to all.

“Without any sense of doubt, if truly that Nigeria’s economy would definitely experience this economic impasse and our call was heeded to the letter and supported with relevant economic panacea, the country would have been prevented from the gigantic effects occasioned by the nation’s mainstay commodity.

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Governor Aregbesola however declared as unfounded and mischievous the allegation that his administration is being tormented with effects of the current economic crisis due to his over-ambition to development.

He said his administration was aware of an allegation purportedly credited to the members of the opposition and enemies of his government who according to him attributed his inability to pay the full salaries of some sections of the state workforce to over-zealousness for transformation.

“It is unfortunate that some people do not reflect on the circumstances that led to the current economic situation in Nigeria.

“But the real fact is that, our economy has been seriously bastardized by the leadership of the main opposition party that led the country for sixteen years.

“These mischievous people have forgotten that our administration in spite the current economic situation has never abdicated its responsibilities in providing the basic amenities to its citizens as well as the payment of workers agreed salaries.

“They have forgotten that all the projects being implemented were mostly needed by the state, even as I speak to you, we still have a lots to do in order to develop and transform our state.

“In view of this, our government is not over-ambitious to development but rather providing the needful needs aimed at developing and transforming the state and the citizens.

“If we have failed to executive all the projects we have done and still doing, the state might not be able to regain such huge transformation as being prioritized by our government.

“So for this reason alone, it is shameful for anybody to think or accuse us of being overambitious to development because it is only the enemy of progress that will reason in such an irrational manner”, Aregbesola affirmed.

Governor Aregbesola therefore called on the people to support his administration in its bid of finding workable alternative to chusion the effects of the current economic crisis.

Aregbesola advocated for massive particiaption in agriculture, saying it is the only surviving sector that can bailout the country from her present economic situation.

Earlier in his lecture, the guest lecturer and human rights activist, Barrister Femi Falana who spoke on a topic titled: “Justifiability of Social and Economic Rights in Nigeria” lamented over what he regarded as infinitesimal economic policy in Nigeria, saying the nation’s fortunes had been selfishly mismanaged by the governments at various levels.

The legal luminary who bemoaned the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan for being insensitive, reckless and corrupt said the current corruption charges leveled against some of the people who worked with the erstwhile President Goodluck Jonathan was a clear signal to his claims.

Governor State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (right) exchanging pleasantries with a Christian Cleric, Evangelist Oyewole Olowomojuore (left); with them is African Cultural Promoter, Yeye Akilimali Funma Olade (middle), during a visit to African Heritage Research Library and Cultural Centre, Adeyipo Village, Ibadan, Oyo

Governor State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (right) and Africa Cultural Promoter, Yeye Akilimali Funma Olade (middle), during a visit to African Heritage Research Library and Cultural Centre, Adeyipo Village, Ibadan, Oyo

Governor State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (middle), Head of South Africa Committee in World Assembly of Muslim Youth (MAMY),Abdulrahman Al-Jammami (left), and Prof, Olosupo Oladipo during a Courtesy visit to the Governor, at Government house Osogbo

Governor State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (3rd right) Head of South Africa Committee in World Assembly of Muslim Youth (MAMY),Abdulrahman Al-Jammami (2nd right), Prof, Olosupo Oladipo (2nd left),National President of Jama’at Ta’awun Muslimeen, Sheik Daood Imran Molaasan (left),and Provost Al-Hummah College of Education, Dr. Qosim Muhammed Tijani (right), during a Courtesy visit to the Governor, at Government House Osogbo

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Friday, 22 January - Thursday, 28 January 2016

News

UNWTO PRESCRIBES TOOLS TO BOOST TOURISM GROWTH IN AFRICA The United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) recently stated that countries which are able to build a tourism destination brand would be those countries that are best in exploiting the great untapped potentials in the tourism market.

The Executive Secretary of MemberRelations and Regional Director for the Americas of the UNWTO, Mr. Carlos Vogeler made this known at the 2015 West Africa Culture and Tourism Ariya Expo.

He addressed participants at the seminar focusing on three key issues relating to destination branding in Africa that he said would boost tourism development in the region.

First, the UNWTO Executive expatiated on the issue of Tourism Development and Trends in the World and Africa – Why Tourism matters for Africa. In his words: “In many African countries, tourism is one of the main economic sectors supporting national growth, employment and environmental conservation, ultimately making a positive difference in the lives of millions of people.”

Mr. Vogeler then talked on the second issue, which was the importance of destinations Branding and Tourism Development in the region. On this, he noted that in the case of tourism, as any business, brand image becomes very critical in differentiating a country or services from its competitors.

While emphasizing that Africa is endowed with enormous tourism assets and natural resources, he stated; “And yet, Africa represents only 5% of the international tourist arrivals.”

UNWTO’s key areas in support of Tourism Development and Branding in Africa was the third issue explained by Mr. Vogeler. He revealed that the Organisation has a mandate to help its member countries develop and build their destination brands through training, technical advice, field missions and technical support services, as well as play the role of facilitator of public private partnership through investment forums like INVESTOUR. The UNWTO spokesperson also stressed: “If you are known as a quality provider through a well-established destination brand you will be in a unique position to attract repeat tourism business.”

Many of the stakeholders of tourism from countries in West Africa also attended Ariya 2015 and made presentations which highlighted new tourism policies, cultural gems and rebranded historical sites that tourists who are seeking the next

level of travel hospitality cannot ignore in the coming year.

Sierra Leone’s acting Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Mrs. Kadija Olamatu Sesay spoke about the finishing touches being put into place to promote tourism business as the country was a few days away of being declared Ebola free at the time.

The Director of Tourism of the country’s tourism ministry, Mr. Mohammed Jalloh, used the opportunity of the event to invite tourists to visit Sierra Leone and take a hike up the highest mountain in West Africa, wake to the calls of chimpanzees and monkeys in the rainforest as well as enjoy the fresh, sweet taste of mangoes plucked straight from the trees.

Sharing memories from her years of childhood in Sierra Leone, English actress, Ellen Thomas who has had many television and film roles, recounted her experience when she recently visited her homeland.

She summed up the visit by describing it as enlightening and an eye-opener which spurred an excitement within her to spread the word about the tropical haven Sierra Leone is.

During his presentation, the Managing Director of Cape Verde Travels who was representing Cape Verde Tourism, Mr. Ron Hughes spoke about how tour guides are more important to tourists than the Presidents of the countries being visited. He stressed that these tour guides should reflect proper training and standard industry practice on the job. He shared the experience the archipelago islands have had in growing tourists’ patronage within a period of time.

He said: “Five years ago when we had our presentation, it was our first session at the Ariya Expo, there was only less than a hundred thousand people, maybe 80, 000 people from England going to Cape Verde.

Now, sort of five years later and our colleague from the United Nations said how they had improved. Now we’ve got nearly 300, 000 people travelling from England alone to Cape Verde. Those are the figures.”

For Sao Tome and Principe, the Director General of Tourism, Mrs. Marian Daio did her presentation in the official language of the country, Portuguese. With the help of an interpreter, she explained that the 200, 000 people that make up the population of the two islands located on the Gulf of Guinea makes them unknown to the rest of the world. But she was quick to add that they are an emerging marketing that is a safe region and they have been generating curiosity in tourism, investment and other areas.

Her words: “Our main focus is sustainable, eco-friendly tourism and it’s development. We are promoting an experience on the islands where you can learn about our plantations of Cocoa and Coffee, colonial history, architectural tourism and we are open for investment tourism, with a niche in luxury.”

The Director of Marketing and Communication for the Senegalese Tourism Promotion Agency, Ms. Houma Dia noted that the privileged geographical location of Senegal

makes it unique. “It is close to Europe and America and it is very accessible; Senegal is served by a lot of international airlines,” she said.

Speaking further, she mentioned another unique feature of Senegal as being the fact that it is very safe and stable. She said: “It is a political exception in the sub-region and that explains why you have a lot of international organisations which have made Dakar the base for their operations.”

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Events calendar What’s On & When WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

Friday, 22 January - Thursday, 28 January 2016

Tourism News

Ola Wright: Charting a stronger tourism brand for West Africa In a presentation made by the Deputy Secretary General of the World Tourism Cities Federation (WTCF), Mr. Li Baochun, the economic advantage of outbound tourism from China having immense benefits for Africa in general and West Africa particularly, was the central message. “Chinese outbound tourists reached 1.138 billion in 2014 and I have full confidence that West Africa is the next holiday destination for the Chinese. In 2014, Chinese outbound travel to Africa was increased significantly by 80.9%. Africa is attractive to the west and certainly attractive to the Chinese. The Chinese could be the next tourismable market for West Africa,” said Mr. Baochun.

Two other celebrities of African descent graced the 2015 edition of Ariya Expo, celebrating it for its significance. Trinidad and Tobago’s Rudolph Walter and Jamaica’s Angela Wynter are recognized celebrities who act in the BBC One soap opera, Eastenders. They were both happy to identify with the wealth of human resource and

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values in the West African region that the event succeeds in uncovering each year.

Beats from the homeland serenaded the air as an artful drummer and his graceful dancer took the audience on a journey to West Africa with cultural songs and folklores. The entertainment was made complete when during lunch-break participants at Ariya Expo were treated to traditional snacks and drink of plaintain chips and calabash-served palmwine. It was truly a taste of West Africa.

Convener and Chief Executive Officer of the West Africa Tourism Seminar, Ms. Ola Wright had in her opening remarks said that West Africa has over time carved out a cliché as the best beauty of Africa, especially in the areas of culture, tradition and complete social freedom.

She stated clearly that: “West Africa Tourism is calling for stronger regional cooperation and increased partnerships as means to build a stronger brand value for West Africa.”

Ms. Wright further noted: “This forum is set to bring West African countries under one roof to share our beautiful story with the world.”

West Africa Tourism Ariya Expo is an annual event and the 2015 edition was held on November 3rd at the Excel Centre in London United Kingdom.

Ms. Ola Wright Convener and Chief Executive Officer of the West Africa Tourism

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Friday, 22 January - Thursday, 28 January 2016

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Asamoah: Football has the power to bring people together Gerald Asamoah has a special place in the hearts of German fans. After moving to Europe from Ghana aged 12 he went on to become the first black player to represent Die Mannschaft, including at two FIFA World Cups.

At the first of those, Korea/Japan 2002, he finished runner-up wearing the shirt of his adopted nation, while he is also a two-time DFB Cup champion with almost 300 Bundesliga appearances to his name and has earned 43 international caps. The striker also played his part in Germany’s ‘summer fairytale’, in which the hosts finished third at the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Just a few months after hanging up his boots, the 37-year-old made another major appearance, this time at the FIFA Ballon d’Or 2015 Gala, accepting the FIFA Fair Play Award on behalf of all the football associations and clubs around the world that are working to support refugees.

FIFA.com caught up with the former Schalke star for an exclusive interview after the ceremony.

What does this night in Zurich mean to you?

Gerald Asamoah: Ultimately it’s about standing up for something that should be completely normal – opening our hearts to vulnerable people. I know first-hand what it’s like to arrive in a foreign country and be accepted, and that’s why committing to a cause like this makes perfect sense for me. Of course, it’s an honour for me to accept this award on behalf of all the people who fight for these values.

How did football help you personally?

Football has the power to bring people together. It gives you the opportunity to meet people and play against them, no matter what their background. As soon as the game kicks off, you share a common goal – to be successful. Football really helped me when I arrived in Germany from Ghana at the age of 12 because it meant I had contact with people from the start. Although I had my family on the one hand, thanks to football I got to know this other culture first-hand and was immediately made to feel like part of a community by my fellow human beings.

That’s why I’m very grateful to the sport; I always say that without it I would never have had the chance to get to where I am today.

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Gerald Asamoah

Why is it so important for people in that situation to join a sports club as soon as possible?

I didn’t yet speak any German back then, so that’s why I always tell people that the first thing they should do is join a sports club. It gives you a good foundation for taking your first steps into everything from language and integration to shared goals and successes. Besides, playing a sport is always better than sitting in front of the television at home. Football really helped me to stand on my own two feet and learn to make my own decisions, because that’s what you have to do out on the pitch.

What memories do you have of arriving in Germany for the first time?

My father was a refugee who had settled in very well, but although I had a residence permit, it was still a new country for me. As I mentioned before, I didn’t speak a single word of German, the cold weather was completely alien to me and I had really had to be ready to face new challenges. In that situation you definitely need people who can provide support. For example, I met one player during those early days in the sixth grade and even went on to play alongside him for Schalke 04 and Germany. That was

Fabian Ernst; he helped me a great deal.

Without him I might never have made that leap or mastered the German language as well as I have.

Did you experience any discrimination?

Yes, plenty! I have always said that nothing changes if nobody speaks out. In my case I was lucky enough to be the first black, African-born footballer to play for Germany, and although I also encountered a lot of negativity, I stood up to it. I was always a role model. Unfortunately it’s difficult to reach those who already have a discriminatory mindset, and that’s why it’s important to show young people with a fresh and unbiased view of the world that all people are equal, regardless of the colour of their skin. That’s something I’ve always tried to convey.

Can you describe some of your experiences?

The more famous I became, the more extreme it got. It was worst after the 2006 World Cup. After that tournament I actually thought that I would really belong and be totally accepted in Germany; after all, the team had a really good World Cup. But suddenly, when I started playing matches with Schalke again a few weeks later, I was once again being whistled and

called a ‘nigger’ in the stadium, even by people who were cheering me on just a few weeks earlier! That hurt me so, so much. It was a backward step that left me incredibly disappointed.

Which emotion prevailed at that point: your pride at being the first black man to play for Germany, or the sadness of experiencing more discrimination?

Pride won in the end: the idea of making a difference and showing that you can play for Germany no matter where you come from. It wasn’t an easy decision to follow that path, because I knew it would be difficult. Nevertheless, I didn’t set out intending to change anything at first; I was simply following my gut instinct because I felt so at home in this country.

The important thing for me was that the people around me always accepted me for who I am. And when you see all the guys who play for Germany today and the range of different backgrounds they have, it shows that perhaps I did actually play a part in that – and that makes me very proud!

How are you currently getting involved with refugee aid?

I’m very committed to it. There are already all kinds of camps, but at Schalke we’re doing a huge amount to reach out to people. Football unites us! No matter where you come from, you can forget your problems for a while simply by playing our sport. We’ve got to show people that they’re part of our communities, and that’s why I believe football is so vital. The beautiful game has made such a difference.

Although 2016 and the years ahead will be tough, we’ve got to fight to ensure that football and its associations and clubs lead the way in making people feel at ease. I’m actively involved in Schalke’s initiatives such as the Kumpelkiste initiative, which collects donations and distributes them to refugees, and we also frequently invite refugees to visit our training ground. At Schalke we’ve also taken a clear position in the current debate with our #standup campaign.

Can you still recall how you felt during your first match for Germany?

It was incredible! I even scored my first goal for Germany during my first international [during a friendly against Slovakia on 29 May 2001]. At first I couldn’t believe it and had no idea what to do. Afterwards I couldn’t sleep all night because I still couldn’t comprehend what had happened that day.

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Friday, 22 January - Thursday, 28 January 2016

Cranes climb to record height The last time Ugandan football fans took an active interest in the biannual CAF Africa Cup of Nations was in 1978, when Jimmy Kirunda inspired the Cranes to a sensational second-place finish in Ghana. It was the third consecutive appearance a the finals, with the KCC defender Kirunda captaining the side on all three occasions.

Since then Ugandans have had to sit idly on the sidelines as the best African teams assemble every second year to crown the king of African football. But now there are signs that things could be changing – in a good way. For one, the East African country has reached its highest-ever position in the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking, having moved one place from December to be ranked the 62nd strongest team in the world. A year ago, they were ranked 15 places lower.

But it was not only the continuous and steady improvement in the ranking that gives fans hope, as results over the last six months have been extremely favorable. It started in June, when the Cranes secured a 2-0 victory at home against Botswana in their first qualifying match for the 2017 AFCON, which will be held in Gabon. A 1-0 victory in the Comoros in September saw them seize the top of Group D by three points.

In November, they turned their attention to the global stage as they competed in the second round of CAF qualifiers for the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™. They again won both matches – beating the 2006 World Cup finalists Togo 1-0 in Lome, before adding a convincing 3-0 win at home.

The 4-0 aggregate victory saw Uganda emerge as the only East African country to advance to the group stages.

But if all of that was not enough good news for Uganda fans, more was to follow as the Cranes emerged victorious from the

Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari Thursday morning rewarded the country’s victorious U17 Class of 1985 and 2015 as well as U23 teams with various cash gifts at a special reception at the Aso Presidential Villa in Abuja.

Uganda Football Team

finals of the 2015 regional CECAFA Cup in Ethiopia, beating Rwanda 1-0 in the final to secure their 14th title.

Foundations of success Uganda’s turn-around began when officials hired former Rwanda coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic in 2013. The Serbian had previously achieved considerable success with Ugandan club SC Villa, guiding them to back-to-back titles between 2001 and 2004. The former striker, who has coached in a number of other African countries including South Africa and Ethiopia, has taken his time to find a winning combination. He called up some 150 players to the national team during his time in charge.

He has also brought back veteran striker Geoffrey Sserunkuma, who last played for the national team several years ago.

Micho is confident that he has now found a unit that can take the team to Gabon, or even all the way to their first World Cup appearance. “I believe I have a strong team enough to compete with the other nations. Good preparations will be a deciding factor,” he said.

Two of the most influential players in the side are Denis Onyango and Farouk Miya.

Onyango captains the side and the 30-year-

old goalkeeper led by example in the AFCON and World Cup qualifiers, keeping a clean sheet in all four matches and saving decisive penalties, both in the 1-0 victory in the Comoros and in Togo in the World Cup qualifier as the Cranes again won 1-0.

Onyango has spent several successful seasons in South Africa, playing for Supersport and Mamelodi Sundowns, with both clubs winning the Premier League whilst the Ugandan international was playing for them. Last month he helped Sundowns win the Telkom Cup, beating South African giants Kaizer Chiefs 3-1 in the final, and again Onyango proved to be the matchwinner as he saved two second-half penalties to give his side victory.

What Onyango is at the back for the Cranes, Miya is upfront. The 18-year-old, who plays his club football for Vipers, has enjoyed a breakthrough season, as he proved clinical in front of goal. Although one of the youngest players in the squad, Miya was given the captain’s armband for the CECAFA tournament and scored three goals for the side. Earlier, he also managed to find the net three times in the two matches against Togo in the World Cup qualifiers.

DRC win six-goal thriller An impressive attacking display by DR Congo saw them beat Angola 4-2 in a thrilling six-goal encounter in their CHAN 2016 Group B encounter on Thursday.

DR Congo took the lead in the 8th minute following a corner kick. A header towards the far post saw Angola’s keeper fumble the ball under pressure and the ball spun off his back and back into play from which Nelson Munganga pounced and poked home the game’s opening goal.

Just a few minutes after the goal, An-

Nigerian President Buhari rewards Eaglets, China ‘85

gola came close to a leveller when a cross reached captain Osvlado only for him to slice his shot off the side of his boot from a very good position.

DRC went 2-0 ahead after 18 minutes when Meshack Elia volleyed home from close range. Inside the danger area, Meshack first mis-hit a volley, but the ball landed kindly for him to have as second attempt and this time he buried the volley.

It was 3-0 after 38 minutes when Jonathan Bolingi cut inside from the right and onto his left foot, then he fired at goal but the should never have gone in at the near

post, but poor goalkeeping from Mavanga saw the ball slip into the net.

DRC had a few more chances to take the score even higher late in the half but a combination of poor decision making and misdirected shooting saw the chances wasted.

Ten minutes into the second half, Angola had a shot on goal after good work by Yano. But Matampi made a good save low at his near post.

In the 65th minute, DRC nearly fond goal number four as Baometu cut inside Miguel on the right wing and powered his way toward goal, but his strong shot at goal was well saved by Mavanga.

The players of the Golden Eaglets, who clinched a record fifth World Cup in Chile in November, received 1.2 million Naira each with their officials pocketing various sums of cash as well.

Heroes of the country at the inaugural FIFA U17 World Cup in 1985 in China received 2 million Naira each.

Buhari, then military head of state in 1985, promised the history-making various gifts, which were not fulfilled 31 years ago.

The country’s Olympic team led by coach Samson Siasia were rewarded with 600,000 Naira-per player with the team officials getting various cash gifts as well.

The U23s won the 2015 U23 AFCON in Dakar, Senegal, and will feature at this year’s Rio Olympics.

Club hire Brazilian to win Nigeria league

Nigeria premier league side FC IfeanyiUbah have flown in six Brazilian and two coaches ahead of the new league season next month.

Club boss Chukwuma Ubah said he be-

lieves the Brazilians will help the Nnewi club win their first-ever league champion-

ship after they finished 11th on their debut appearance in the Nigerian top flight.

One of the Brazilian players said on ar-

rival in the country that they are excited to take up the Nigerian challenge and prove their worth.

Both players and coaches have since

joined up with the rest of squad, who are

training in Ibadan ahead of the new season, which begins on February 21.

‘Anambra Warriors’ IfeanyiUbah are

bankrolled by oil magnate and politician Ifeanyi Ubah.

23

Friday, 22 January - Thursday, 28 January 2016 ISSUE 613

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Asamoah: Football has the power to bring people together SEE PAGE 22

I’M GOING NOWHERE – BONY

Wilfried Bony netted three times in four matches after stepping in for injured Sergio Aguero – by common consent the Premier League’s best striker

By Alan Oakley

Manchester City striker Wilfried Bony has denied rumours that he wants to leave the Etihad, insisting he is happy and has no regrets about joining the Premier League’s financial giants.

The Ivorian has been forced to make his intentions clear following reports that he has become frustrated with his role as second string to Sergio Aguero and would be open to switch clubs for more firstteam opportunities elsewhere.

Bony publicly questioned City boss Manuel Pellegrini’s decision to demote him to the bench in favour of Aguero for the 2-1 defeat to Arsenal, despite having scored three times in the previous four games when Aguero was injured.

He has been linked with a return to former club Swansea City and is alleged to be a target for Newcastle United boss Steve McLaren during the January transfer window, but his agent was quick to bat away any talk of a move and now the player has reconfirmed his commitment to the Manchester club, who are keen to recapture the Barclays Premier League and

finally live up to their billing in the UEFA Champions League.

City are also in the semi-finals of the Capital One Cup and the fourth round of the FA Cup, so the striker’s ability to hit the ground running when called upon could be vital if they are to compete on all four fronts.

“I’m happy at the club, all this speculation is not true,” Bony said, adding: “I have a contract so I’m happy and I think I’m at one of the top clubs in the United Kingdom.”

Bony has made only 11 Premier League starts in twelve months since his move from Swansea on a four-and-a-halfyear deal. Yet the striker insisted he was

pleased he made the big-money move. He told BBC World Football: “I have no regrets about joining Man City (…) We play in the Champions League and we’re one of the top clubs in the world. I’m happy here and I can just say I’m blessed.”

African Voice Newspaper is published by African Voice Communications. Unit 7 Holles House Overton Road London SW9 7AP. Tel: 020 3737 3077 Registered at the British Library as a newspaper. ISSN 1475-2166.Email: africanvoicenews@googlemail.com