African Voice Newspaper Issue 615

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Friday, 5 February - Thursday, 11 February 2016 ISSUE 615

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 Are Government Government rolls Policies Destroying the out name-blind recruitment UK Property Market?

SEE PAGE 4

GET US OUT TO SLASH IMMIGRATION

SEE PAGE 12 Like us on Facebook facebook.com/africanvoicenews Follow us on Twitter @africanvoice2

Independent think-tank says EU exit will trim 100,000

By Alan Oakley

Migration Watch, an immigration research organisation and thinktank that describes itself as independent but is viewed by many as an anti-immigration pressure group, has published a report examining for the first time what a post “Brexit” (Britain exiting the European Union) immigration regime might look like and estimat-

ing its likely effect on net migration to the UK.

In it the lobbyist group says that leaving the European Union would cut UK immigration numbers by more than 100,000 – a figure that would be music to the ears of David Cameron, whose efforts to limit net immigration to “tens of thousands” is failing disastrously but who is nevertheless keen for Britain to remain in Europe.

David Cameron has made no secret of his desire for Britain to remain part of the EU

The group estimates that net migration from the EU – which is the difference between the number of people entering and exiting the UK – would drop from 180,000 to 65,000 per year if the nation were to introduce work permits for EU citizens.

Migration Watch describes immigration as ‘a natural part of an open economy’ and claims to ‘welcome it,’ but only to a certain level.

Continued on page 5

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London Help to Buy opens

The new London Help to Buy scheme has now opened its doors, allowing Londoners to buy a home with just a 5% deposit and a mortgage as low as 55%, the Communities Secretary Greg Clark announced on 1 February 2016.

From today, first-time buyers and second-steppers will get the opportunity to own a new-build home in the capital with a deposit backed by a 40% equity loan from the government that is interest free for the first 5 years.

Aldermore, Bank of Scotland, Barclays, Halifax, Leeds, Lloyds, Nationwide, Natwest, Royal Bank of Scotland and Teachers Building Societies are offering London Help to Buy from today – enabling Londoners to get on the housing market with a much smaller mortgage.

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

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African Voice is published by African Voice UK.

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News

PM plans to remove barriers at elite universities Prime Minister David Cameron announced plans to require universities to publish statistical data on admissions by gender, class and ethnic background.

Under the proposal, all universities will have a new ‘transparency duty’, part of a drive to highlight those institutions failing to improve access.

There are currently huge discrepancies in the offers made by universities to students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

In 2014 just 27 black students entered Oxford University out of an intake of more than 2,500, and only 1 in 10 of the poorest white working class boys enter higher education.

This new duty will highlight those universities where representation of ethnic minorities and those from disadvantaged groups are low – and help schools, colleges and higher education institutions identify where more work needs to be done.

Prime Minister David Cameron said: Too many in our country are held back, often invisibly because of their background or the colour of their skin.

We must be far more demanding of our institutions, do even more to raise aspirations and be relentless in the pursuit of creative answers.

I believe this new transparency duty offers a real chance to help nudge universities into making the right choices and reaching out in the right ways.

The Prime Minister, David Cameron

Under the duty, which will be introduced in legislation, wide-ranging data will be published showing the ethnic, gender and socioeconomic breakdown for applications, entry, and retention in key disciplines at all higher education institutions.

Analysing this data will help tackle one of the biggest challenges currently in higher education: low entry and poor retention among black groups and white working class boys.

The data for individual institutions will also be available for prospective students to help inform their decisions on applying for university.

Business Secretary Sajid Javid said: We’re ensuring record numbers of students can get

university places but there are still too many people being held back and prevented from fulfilling their potential.

This new transparency duty will highlight where progress is being made and where institutions could do much more. Only by working together can we tear down barriers and create a genuine level playing field for those with the potential to study at our world-class universities.

This announcement builds on the government’s proposals in the Higher Education green paper to make more university data available to help widen access and provide prospective students with more information.

Defence leaders meet Muslim communities to discuss Syria Defence leaders, including the Chief of Defence Staff Sir Nick Houghton, Deputy Chief of Defence Staff Lieutenant General Gordon Messenger and Defence Minister Earl Howe, explained how military airstrikes against Daesh are conducted, the targeting process and the steps taken to minimise collateral and civilian damage in Syria and Iraq.

Michael Fallon acknowledged how unsettled some members of the British Muslim communities have become about OpShader – the name of the military operation countering Daesh – and the need for better communication about these efforts.

This meeting coincides with the ‘Supporting Syria & the Region’ conference. This event takes place on Thursday February 4th and brings together world leaders from around the globe to discuss a united response to the crisis.

Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said: Today’s meeting was a chance to explain why we’ve extended the air campaign against Daesh from Iraq to Syria, as our enemies will do everything in their power to portray our intervention as a clash of civilisations.

Chief of Defence Staff Sir Nick Houghton

This categorically isn’t a war against Muslims, or about picking a side between Sunni and Shia, or about targeting innocents. We are part of a coalition made up of many Muslim countries. And we fight to defeat a terrorist group who have killed more Muslims than any others, and who hate everything we stand for.

There were over 30 representatives at the meeting, including organisations such as St Philip’s Interfaith Centre, the Federation of Muslim Organisations, Association of Muslim Schools, Faith Matters and British Future.

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News

Government rolls out name-blind recruitment Matt Hancock, Minister for the Cabinet Office, publishes a new inequality index and rolls out nameblind recruitment across the public sector.

Following the release of the Bridge Report commissioned by the Civil Service to examine why only 4.4% of successful applicants to the Fast Stream graduate programme are from the poorest backgrounds.

He urged Britain’s major employers to follow the Civil Service’s lead in tackling the issue.

Measures will include: rolling out nameblind recruitment across the public sector to make sure that jobs are awarded on merit alone – the NHS and Civil Service will roll out name-blind recruitment by 2020.

Publishing the pay ratio of the salaries between the median and highest paid employees, this ‘inequality index’ will allow taxpayers to hold the government to account Over 200,000 apprenticeships will be created in the public sector by 2020, of which over 30,000 will be in the Civil Service.

Taking graduate recruitment outside of London by establishing regional assessment centres.

Urging Britain’s major employers to take a similar approach to inequality.

Matt Hancock, Minister for the Cabinet Office and Paymaster General, said: I want

Minister for the Cabinet Office, Matt Hancock

to see a Britain where nobody is defined by the circumstances of their birth. To deliver that, public services need to reflect the country that they serve.

Inequality matters. Countries with higher income inequality have lower levels of social mobility. It’s harder to climb the ladder of opportunity if the rungs are further apart.

We’re going to put more rungs in that ladder.

I am not prepared to accept unequal access and unequal progress in Britain’s top institutions. We will tear down these barriers to fairness for all.

The Bridge Report is the first of its kind published by any employer in the country. It sets out recommendations to tackle the lack of social mobility across the public and private sectors.

It finds that although there has been some improvement in access to and progression within the Civil Service for people on the basis of their race, gender or sexuality, there is still a very low number of applicants for the Fast Stream from poor socioeconomic backgrounds. Indeed, it finds the Fast Stream has a less diverse intake on this measure than Oxford University.

The government has accepted the recommendations and Matt Hancock has today announced his plan to go further and tackle inequalities across the public sector head on.

Sir Jeremy Heywood, Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Civil Service, said: The Civil Service has made great strides in the last few years on diversity, but there is still more to do if it is properly to represent modern Britain.

The Bridge Report provides valuable evidence about the socio-economic background of our graduate recruits.

We have held up a mirror to ourselves and can now see the challenges that we face more clearly and how to overcome them. With the introduction of nameblind applications and an increase in mentoring and apprenticeships, we are absolutely determined to become the best place to succeed whatever your background.

Government Diversity Adviser, Lord Holmes of Richmond MBE, said: The Bridge Group report offers potential nuggets of gold, not just for the Civil Service but for the UK. Social mobility should be on all of our minds if we are to be the citizens, the communities, the country we are capable of. The problem is that talent is everywhere but opportunity is not.

The Civil Service is not unusual in facing this but the Fast Stream offers a unique possibility to make a real impact on social mobility in the UK. Bridge’s suggestions could form a large part of this transformation.

Perhaps the most pertinent point for all of us being, we should never stop looking for those insights, those innovations, those applications of data to enable the chance, the opportunity, the potential to be realised.

BME under-representation in UK-wide employment queried Creating greater opportunities at England’s universities for those from disadvantaged and black and ethnic minority backgrounds (BME) was the focus of a special Downing Street meeting on 1 February 2016.

Representatives from English schools, universities and UK-wide employers met with the Prime Minister, Business Secretary Sajid Javid and Universities Minister Jo Johnson to discuss what more can be done to improve social mobility in higher education, including the new plans announced on 31 January 2016 to place a legal duty on universities to publish statistical data on admissions by gender, class and ethnic background, and how this could be used to challenge under-representation.

Those attending included Minister for Childcare and Education Sam Gyimah, representatives from the Russell Group and the vice-chancellors of the universities of Oxford, Cambridge, Bristol and King’s College London. Along with members of the government’s Social Mobility Advisory Group, including Professor Les Ebdon, Director of Fair Access to Higher Education, and representatives from employers PwC who were invited to advise on how broadening access at universities could 4

Business Secretary, Sajid Javid

help the long-term job prospects of underrepresented students.

Among the schools taking part in the discussion was Phoenix High School.

Serving the White City estate in west London, the school was described by Ofsted as “a remarkable school” which “continues to transform the life chances of students and their families.” Two thirds of the pupils have learning difficulties or disabilities and just under half speak English as an additional language, yet the pupils’ exam results are around the national average and 25% of the school’s Year 13 students went to university in 2015, including Russell Group universities.

Business Secretary Sajid Javid said: I believe passionately that everyone with

the potential should have the opportunity to benefit from higher education. Universities have made good progress but we can’t stand still. More needs to be done to improve access and outcomes for disadvantaged and BME students. That’s why we’ve announced plans for a new transparency duty to shine a spotlight on where progress is being made and where institutions could do much more.

Themes discussed at the roundtable included: what new data is needed to support further progress in access and success for disadvantaged students, how to enhance collaboration between universities, schools and educational charities to help more pupils with the potential to progress to university, how to encourage more innovative

approaches to drive social mobility across the university lifecycle from retention to attainment to career progression, what action can be taken to accelerate progress towards meeting the Prime Minister’s goals to double the proportion of students from disadvantaged backgrounds going to university from 2009 levels and to increase the number of BME students by 20% by 2020.

Universities and Science Minister Jo Johnson said: Legislation for a new transparency duty will shine a spotlight on the whole admissions process and expose where offer rates for some of the poorest students and those from black and minority backgrounds are particularly low.

Professor Les Ebdon, Director of Fair Access to Higher Education, said: I welcome the Prime Minister’s continued personal commitment to fair access to higher education. He is right to highlight the wide gaps - both in access and outcomes - between students of different ethnic backgrounds. I will shortly be publishing guidance for institutions who wish to have an access agreement in 2017 to 2018. I will challenge them to match the Prime Minister’s ambition so that anyone with the ability to succeed in higher education has the opportunity to do so, whatever their background.

Friday, 5 February - Thursday, 11 February 2016

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News Lammy investigates racial bias in criminal justice system

The Prime Minister has asked David Lammy MP to lead a review of the Criminal Justice System in England and Wales to investigate evidence of possible bias against black defendants and other ethnic minorities.

With significant overrepresentation of black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) individuals in the criminal justice system, the review will consider their treatment and outcomes to identify and help tackle potential bias or prejudice.

Prime Minister David Cameron said: If you’re black, you’re more likely to be in a prison cell than studying at a top university. And if you’re black, it seems you’re more likely to be sentenced to custody for a crime than if you’re white.

We should investigate why this is and how we can end this possible discrimination.

That’s why I have asked David Lammy MP to lead a review of the overrepresentation of defendants from black and ethnic minority backgrounds in the criminal justice system. And this will include examining possible sentencing and prosecutorial disparity.

The Rt Hon David Lammy MP said: I’ve been working in this area for almost 2 decades and am very pleased to accept the Prime Minister’s invitation to lead this comprehensive, independent review across our criminal justice system.

With over a quarter of the prison population coming from a BAME background the urgency here is clear.

I look forward to leading a team that will evaluate what works in the UK, draw on lessons from abroad and listen to a broad range of voices from the justice system and our BAME communities.

At present, BAME individuals currently make up over a quarter of prisoners, compared to 14% of the wider population of England and Wales.

Latest figures also show that BAME people make up a disproportionate amount of Crown Court defendants (24%), and those who are found guilty are more likely to receive custodial sentences than white offenders (61% compared to 56%).

The review will address issues arising from the point of arrest onwards, including through the court system, in prisons and during rehabilitation in the wider community, in order to identify areas for reform and examples of good practice from the UK and beyond.

Reporting back in spring 2017, David Lammy has been asked for recommendations to ultimately reduce the proportion of BAME individuals in the criminal justice system and make sure that all suspects and offenders are treated equally, whatever their ethnicity.

Commenting on the review the Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary, the Rt Hon Michael Gove MP, said: An effective

David Lammy MP

justice system depends on procedural fairness. Equality of treatment at every stage in the criminal justice process is essential. I am very pleased that David,

a politician whose intellectual honesty I have long admired, and who is not afraid to confront uncomfortable truths, is pursuing this important work.

Independent think-tank says EU exit will trim 100,000 Continued from front page

Currently, this is keeping with the views of much of the UK population. However, in lobbying for tougher immigration controls Migration Watch has been accused of providing inaccurate and misleading information.

James McGrory, who is part of the pro-EU ‘Britain Stronger in Europe’ campaign, described Migration Watch’s claim as ‘misleading’ and ‘another example of fudging the facts.’

European Union referendum By the end of 2017 and perhaps as early as this summer, Britain is set to hold a referendum as to whether the nation should continue as a member of the European Union. The Migration Watch report looks at possible policies that the UK might implement if the decision was taken to leave the EU. The report then estimates the impact that these policies would have on overall UK immigration numbers.

However, the BBC’s Home Affairs correspondent Danny Shaw pointed out that no-one knows for certain what the impact would be on UK immigration in the event that the UK exits from the EU. Much of what Migration Watch claims is conjecture and hearsay, after all any impact on UK immigration figures would depend on the terms

of any new settlement, which could take months to negotiate and many years to implement.

While Migration Watch argues that leaving would reduce the flow of low-skilled EU workers arriving in Britain, in reality would it really cut net migration numbers? Some commentators say no. They argue that there would be an influx prior to any new restrictions being enforced.

In addition, those who disagree with the Migration Watch report say that businesses that currently depend on workers such as labourers, chambermaids and supermarket shelf-stackers from Europe, would successfully be able to persuade the Government that they be permitted to recruit such workers from elsewhere.

With tighter Tier 2 visa controls coming into effect on April 6, 2016, can the UK really advocate cutting off labour supply from Europe and non-European nations? Moreover, if Britain were to introduce work permits for EU citizens, the EU would introduce work permits for British citizens. Therefore cutting emigration from the UK. This would affect net migration.

The Migration Watch report suggests that an EU exit would result in key immigration changes, including the introduction of work permits for EU nationals. Migration Watch says this would limit the ‘type’ of EU nationals entering the UK to highly-skilled workers, along with their de-

pendants. Such a change would allow entry of students too, but prohibit the entry of low-skilled workers.

Chairman of Migration Watch, Lord Green of Deddington, said: “It’s time to explore potential alternative immigration regimes. Under current arrangements, signs indicate that migration to Britain will continue at a substantial rate for the foreseeable future. Indeed, immigrants tend to generate further migration as their friends and relatives join them in their new countries.”

Lord Green went on to say that the introduction of work permits for EU citizens would reduce net UK immigration numbers substantially and reduce the UK’s population growth and reduce pressure on public services.

Key points Migration Watch’s 16-page report documents that on average around 20 per cent of EU migrants who arrived in Britain between 2004 and 2014 were in higher-skilled work. The report estimates what would happen if immigration was restricted to highly skilled workers.

An excerpt from the report reads: “This could substantially reduce the EU inflow for work to perhaps one fifth of its recent level and would, in turn, substantially reduce net migration by perhaps 100,000 a year from the current level of 180,000.”

However, the report did point out that the figures should not be regarded as a ‘precise estimate’, but was ‘intended to demonstrate the scale of the potential reduction under the policies outlined.’

The report concluded that no restrictions would be needed for EU citizens entering the UK as tourists or students. Additionally, those deemed ‘self-sufficient’ would be free to live in the UK. People would also be allowed to enter the Country to look for work.

No Evidence James McGrory says that the Migration Watch report only covers one aspect of the debate concerning Britain’s membership of the EU, immigration. He says that this in itself is not a good reason for leaving the European Union.

He said: “Right now, Britain has the best of both worlds. We have an opt-out from the passport-free Schengen area, while still enjoying full access to the single market. The Leave campaigns haven’t produced a shred of evidence to show how they could guarantee a deal that is at least as good if we left.”

The Migration Observatory, based at the University of Oxford, says should it be made more difficult for employers to recruit from within the EU, they would seek to recruit foreigner labour from outside Europe.

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Health News

Friday, 5 February - Thursday, 11 February 2016

UK to fast track funding for research into Zika The government has announced a ‘rapid response’ call for research applications aimed at tackling the risk posed by the Zika virus.

Initially, up to £1 million from the government’s Global Challenges Research Fund will be made available through the UK Medical Research Council (UK MRC) to researchers applying for grants to investigate the nature of the virus, its transmission and the potential links to neurological conditions including microcephaly.

Universities and Science Minister, Jo Johnson, said: The spread of the Zika virus to a growing number of countries in Central and South America has now been recognised as a global emergency by the World Health Organisation WHO. Zika needs to be fought on a number of fronts, and the UK’s worldclass scientists have an important role to play. Thanks to the government’s decision to protect the science budget and establish a new Global Challenges Research Fund, UK scientists can immediately start tackling this problem.

Professor Sir John Savill, the MRC’s chief executive said: It’s critical that we

find out more about the Zika virus as soon as possible, so we are allocating funding to help researchers answer some of the most pressing questions about the disease. We need to be able to develop treatments and vaccines but first we need answers to vital questions about the nature of this virus such as if and how it is changing, how to control the spread of the disease, and how to both diagnose and prevent infection.

The UK has a wealth of excellent scientists working in virus research and in the fields of genetics, immunology, epidemiology and mosquito vectors.

Zika is unlikely to be a serious public health problem in the UK, because the virus is spread by tropical mosquitos, but it’s hugely important that we use our home-grown expertise to help tackle health problems of significant global impact.

Possible avenues of research to be funded by this initiative could include:

• epidemiological characteristics, eg vector transmission potential, geographical spread, interactions with other arboviruses, changing viral genotype, host susceptibility, incubation period

• development of more specific rapid diagnostic tests for Zika virus that can reduce misdiagnosis that may occur due to the presence of dengue or other viruses in a test sample

• viral pathogenicity, association with and potential mechanistic links to neurodevelopment / microcephaly

• mechanisms of infection and host immune responses and potential therapeutics / vaccines At the same time as the rapid response initiative, the UK MRC and the Foundation for Science and Technology of the state of Pernambuco (FAPERPE) have recently agreed to jointly fund a research proposal to investigate the viral features and host responses to Zika virus with a view to designing new preventative strategies. This agreement follows a joint call for research applications under the UK government’s Newton Fund.

Researchers at the UK MRC Centre for Virus Research at the University of Glasgow will be working with a team at the Research Center Aggeu Magalhães at the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Pernambuco, Brazil. The joint award is around £300,000 in total.

Universities and Science Minister, Jo Johnson

The main objective of the project is to study the presence and epidemiology of the Zika virus in Brazil and to understand how the immune system of people infected with the virus responds to the infection. Genetic techniques will be used to support diagnostics and vaccine development studies as well as helping to understand the biology of the Zika virus during infection.

UK, Jimmy Carter to eradicate Guinea Worm Britain is partnering with The Carter Center to help make Guinea worm only the second human disease in history to be eradicated, International Development Minister Nick Hurd and former US President Jimmy Carter announced.

The UK’s Department for International Development is providing £4.5 million in new support for the Carter Center’s Guinea Worm Eradication Programme.

The funding will pay for health volunteers, water filters and larvicide in the few remaining endemic villages in South Sudan, Ethiopia, Chad and Mali. It will also support surveillance campaigns in 6000 villages across these four remaining endemic countries as well as education campaigns to ensure the disease doesn’t resurface.

Guinea worm disease is a parasite caused by drinking infected water. The worm grows inside the body, causing severe pain for up to a year. The worm, which can reach up to a metre in length, eventually emerges through the skin, usually from the leg, causing intense pain and disability which can last for months.

The Carter Center began leading the international campaign to eradicate Guinea worm disease in 1986, when there were an estimated 3.5 million cases annually in Africa and Asia. Last month the Center announced that only 22 people worldwide had contracted the disease in 2015.

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UK International Development Minister Nick Hurd said: Guinea worm is a truly horrendous disease, causing unimaginable pain and suffering. The fact that we are now so close to eradicating it is one of the great public health success stories of modern times.

The tremendous progress we have made in tackling this disease would not have been possible without the personal commitment of Jimmy Carter and his Carter Center. UK aid has played a key role supporting their efforts, but it’s clear that without continued backing there is a real risk of a resurgence in the disease.

This new aid package from the UK will fund the last push to eradicate Guinea Worm, supporting the treatment, prevention and education campaigns needed to finally consign this disease to the history books.

Former US President Jimmy Carter said: Guinea worm eradication is possible because of the steadfast support from partners like the British government.

The UK continues to demonstrate its willingness and staying power to eradicate this debilitating disease, and today’s newest pledge is another example of DFID’s commitment.

The UK has been one of the world’s largest supporters of the Guinea worm eradication campaign, providing £30 million to the Carter Center’s Guinea Worm Eradication Programme between 2009 and 2015.

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Nearly half of foreign inflows into Zimbabwe are remittances Zimbabweans living and working in countries such as SA, the UK and the US sent nearly $1bn back home in 2015, accounting for nearly half of foreign inflows into the cash-starved economy.

Zimbabwe is battling a liquidity crunch that has been worsened by growing weakness in the currencies of major trading partners, the South African rand and Chinese yuan.

Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe governor John Mangudya said on Thursday there had been an increase in instances of illegal externalisation of funds by both individuals and companies.

“The current scenario in Zimbabwe for example, where firms, especially those in the extractive sectors, and individuals are externalising funds, including export sales proceeds defies economic logic,” he said in his Monetary Policy Statement for 2016.

Remittances by Zimbabweans in the diaspora amounted to $935m in 2015, he said, “which is about 48% of total remittances, which were about $2bn” during the same year.

The central bank said that in 2015, however, as much as $684m was externalised by individuals for various purposes that included donations, investments and account transfers.

“In addition, $1.2bn in export sales proceeds were externalised by firms,” the central bank said.

Zimbabweans have also been shunning the formal banking sector although profitability in the industry had improved, with about 15 banks notching up $127.4m in aggregate net profit. Only three banks made losses in 2015, said the policy statement.

The losses by the three banks have been attributed to “increased provisioning for bad and doubtful debts” which “however, weighed down on their performance,” resulting in losses.

Bad loans and defaults are also on the decline, with the nonperforming loans to total loans ratio declining markedly from 20.45% in September 2014 to about 10.87% by the end of December 2015.

The central bank has also now put in place measures to promote the usage of plastic money and online banking. It has also sought to tighten policy measures on usage and carriage of large amounts of cash by both businesses and individuals.

President Robert Mugabe

“Prior reasonable notice of not less than a day should be given to financial institutions for all cash withdrawals of an equivalent amount of above $10,000,” Mr Mangudya said.

Zimbabwe is forging ahead with reforms of its banking sector to improve stability and transparency, and a bill awaiting

African Leaders, Top American CEOs Explore Opportunities At Business Summit The US-Africa Business Summit is underway in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Tuesday as African Heads of State and American business leaders meet with the objective of boosting trade and investment between the region and the US.

Underlining that the current volume of trade and investment between the two sides was not enough, Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn highlighted the need to increase economic interaction especially in productive sectors.

“Today Africa is rising. Africa’s future is very bright. I believe the summit will help you to discover the potential for investment and doing business in Africa,” the Premier told US business representatives at the opening of the summit.

Organised by the Corporate Council on Africa and held every two years, the 2016 summit is being attended by around 1,200 participants including CEOs of major US and African companies.

Reports show that challenges such as poor infrastructure and corruption have kept American companies away despite the continent being an investment magnet for other emerging economies such as China.

“The key for all of them [the participants] is to have vibrant discussions... That is the only way you can solve some of the challenges and hurdles that occur in terms of investing here in the continent,” Adi Raval, Senior vice president of communications and public affairs at US-based engineering firm Symbion Power told the The EastAfrican in Addis.

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President Robert Mugabe’s approval will jail reckless bank managers in the event of bank collapses.

Zimbabwe has been hit with bank failures in the past four years, most of them blamed on poor corporate governance and insider loans.

According to Mr Raval, despite these challenges, US companies have been slowly increasing their investment in the region over time.

Talba Alkali, director at Federal Ministry of Aviation in the department of safety and technical policy in Nigeria, also agrees with Mr Raval, noting that the United States has been active in supporting aviation infrastructures in the country.

“When it comes to aviation, we have always been in collaboration with the United States, especially in safety and security. I expect more of US Partnerships and their companies’ investment in Nigeria in the future,” he said.

Over the coming three days, the 10th biennial summit is expected to explore investment opportunities in various sectors in Africa and announce business deals.

According to US trade statistics, exports of merchandise to sub-Saharan Africa have steadily been on the rise, going up 58 per cent since 2009.

Merchandise exports reached nearly $24 billion in 2013, an increase of $8.8 billion since 2009, with goods exports to sub-Saharan Africa supporting over 100,000 US jobs in 2013.

However, compared to Sino-African trade, the volume of US trade with the continent is small.

Despite this, the United States has remained one of the top providers of humanitarian assistance and development aid to Africa for several decades.

With the recent economic slowdown, China’s imports from Africa fell nearly 40 per cent last year, presenting a challenge to many African economies that rely on Chinese demand for raw commodities such as iron ore and oil.

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Arts Culture

Comment

Concussion (2015 film) is a Nigerian

by Akintokunbo Adejumo Poser: How many Hollywood movies have been made about the lives and achievements of Nigerians who have made one impact or the other on the world stage, with big name actors like Will Smith taking the role of the Nigerian achiever, and Alec Baldwin in a supporting role?

I am still struggling to come up with one, but please, if you know of any, kindly correct me.

I did not know about this film called Concussion, until a few evenings ago, when my wife and I decided to go and watch a movie, as we usually do most Sunday evenings to vary our lifestyle. So we searched online for what movie to go and watch and as usual, browsed through the reviews. I came across a movie called Concussion, which was about a Nigerian forensic pathologist in the United States.

Our curiosity was aroused and we decided to take in the movie. It was perhaps the best decision I had ever made concerning watching a movie.

Concussion is a 2015 American biographical sports medical drama film directed and written by Peter Landesman.

This film is based on the 2009 GQ exposé Game Brain by Jeanne Marie Laskas starring Will Smith as Dr. Bennet Omalu, a Nigerian forensic pathologist who fought against efforts by the National Football League to suppress his research on chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) brain damage suffered by professional football players. The film also stars Alec Baldwin, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, and Albert Brooks. Columbia Pictures released the film on December 25, 2015.

I will summarise the plot of the movie, with reference to Wikipedia, (no use in re-inventing the wheel). In 2002, former Pittsburgh Steelers center Mike Webster was found dead in his pickup truck. Bennet Omalu, a forensic pathologist with the Allegheny County, Pennsylvania coroner’s office, handles Webster’s autopsy, and discovers that he has severe brain damage. He ultimately determines that Webster died as a result of the long-term effects of repeated blows to the head—a disorder he calls chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). With the help of former Steelers team doctor Julian Bailes, fellow neurologist Steven

T. DeKosky and county coroner Cyril Wecht, Omalu publishes a paper on his findings, which is initially dismissed by the NFL. Over the next few years, Omalu discovers that three other deceased former NFL players, Terry Long, Justin Strzelczyk and Andre Waters, had symptoms very similar to Webster’s. He finally persuades newly appointed NFL commissioner Roger Goodell to present his findings before a committee on player safety. However, the NFL doesn’t take Omalu seriously; they don’t even allow him to be in the room for the presentation, forcing Bailes to give it for him.

Omalu is subjected to considerable pressure to back down from his efforts.

Wecht is subjected to a politically motivated prosecution on corruption charges. Omalu’s wife, Prema, suffers a miscarriage after being stalked. The Omalus are forced to leave their dream home outside Pittsburgh. They move to Lodi, California; where Omalu takes a job with the San Joaquin County coroner ’s office. However, he is vindicated when former NFL Players Association executive Dave Duerson commits suicide due to growing cognitive problems; in his suicide note, Duerson admits that Omalu was right. Omalu is allowed to address an NFLPA conference on concussions and CTE. Amid growing scrutiny from the US Congress, the NFL is forced to take the concussion issue more seriously.

Omalu is offered a job as chief medical examiner for the District of Columbia, but turns it down in order to continue working hands-on with autopsies.

Dr. Omalu’s efforts to study and publicize CTE in the face of NFL opposition were reported in a GQ magazine article in 2009 by Jeanne Marie Laskas. The article was later expanded

by Laskas into a book, Concussion, and a film of the same name where Dr. Omalu is the central character portrayed by Will Smith. The movie’s production led to the creation of a foundation named after Omalu to advance CTE and concussion research.

Dr. Bennet Ifeakandu Omalu (born September 1968) is a Nigerian American physician, forensic pathologist, and neuropathologist who was the first to publish findings of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in American football players while working at the Allegheny County Coroner’s Office in Pittsburgh. He later became chief medical examiner of San Joaquin County, California, and is a professor in the University of California, Davis, Department of Medical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine.

The family name, Omalu, is a shortened form of the surname, Onyemalukwube, which translates to “he (she) who knows, speak”.

Brief Biography: Born Bennet Ifeakandu Omalu, September 1968 (age 47), in Nnokwa, Idemili South, Nigeria Residence Lodi, California Nationality Nigerian and naturalized USA citizen Alma mater University of Nigeria, Nsukka (M.B., B.S., 1990) Carnegie Mellon University (MBA, 2008) University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health (MPH, Epidemiology) [2] Occupation Medical Doctor, Forensic Pathologist, Professor, Medical Examiner Known for Discovering the relationship of the brain disease CTE to damage done to some American football players by concussions.

Spouse Prema Mutiso

Now back to my writing: If I had been trained as a film critic, I probably would have been more eloquent and professional than this and able to put my critical opinions and feelings better on paper. Watching that movie brought tears into my eyes, and yet again, also a great feeling of pride in my country of origin, Nigeria. Of course, Nigerians have been doing great and greater things than this in all areas of endeavour, profession, etc. all over the world. We have a Nobel Laureate, and so many great Nigerians who have been awarded genuine, international and prestigious prizes and awards. I cannot recount them all here, in fact, I do not know them all, because some of them were and are still working quietly in the background in so many countries of the world, and even some inside Nigeria itself. Yet, it seems the mediocre and the charlatans always have the upper hand in determining the potential and greatness of this country.

Dr Omalu was threatened with deportation, had his wife stalked, nearly lost his job and was intimidated by official authorities (FBI) in the US to suppress his findings, yet he did not bend.

His bosses and subordinates, who were whites, at work had the utmost faith and belief in him and his work, so much he was supported by them when undergoing this ordeal.

Another thing of note, and which should be an eye-opener or food for thought for Nigerians was that throughout, Dr Omalu, who had experienced the Biafran Civil War, never referred to himself as an Igbo man. He is a Nigerian all the time,

even when he was courting his future Kenyan wife. His bosses, subordinates, allies and foes knew him as a Nigerian, not an Igbo man. He expressed, promoted and dignified Nigeria, not Igbo.

He was resilient and dignified. He showed an integrity which is now uncommon in Nigeria these days, the lack of which has made Nigerians all over the world become marked corrupt, easily bought and criminal. In the face of all that was thrown at him, he could have buckled in or collapsed under the pressure and decided not to pursue his findings (which could save thousands of lives) further and just get on with the job and intent of making his living on a pathologist’s salary, like many of us would – we don’t want to get deported back to Nigeria, or “look, dat na America’s problem, wetin concern me, if dem no wan hear d truth, na dem palaver be dat, make I earn my money jare” Dr Omalu only became a naturalised American citizen in February 2015. As he told journalist Jeanne Marie Laskas in the biographical Concussion, he became disillusioned with Nigeria after presidential candidate Moshood Abiola failed to win the Nigerian presidency due to an inconclusive election in 1993.

Of course, Dr Bennet Omalu no longer owes any allegiance to his country of origin, like so many millions of Nigerians who have sojourned to foreign lands since time immemorial, but there is still the Nigerian-ness in him, again like many of us.

We tend to derive some personal and national pride when the children of Nigeria do well outside of the country itself.

We are always proud of Nigerians, dual nationality or not, who have brought glory and recognition to us and are pained and ashamed by those of them accosted all over the world for crimes like fraud, drug smuggling, money laundering, including our leaders who have been denigrating and shaming us since Independence, and more recently with unabated and unashamed looting of the treasury and utter governmental incompetence. These are type of people who forced the type of Dr Omalu to leave his own country and people and be more beneficial to other people’s countries.

Aptly, Nigeria is concussed now, and it is the Omalu’s of this world that may be able to revive it. This is a movie many of us who are proud of our country should watch and encourage others to watch. It is inspiring, motivational, orientating, educational and positive about our muchmaligned country.

I acknowledge you, Bennet Omalu, though you may never meet or know me.

I have learnt something from you about humanity, resilience, devotion, hard work, personal conviction and pride and belief in one’s professionalism.

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Friday, 5 February - Thursday, 11 February 2016

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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

RED VELVET 23 Jan - 27 Feb 2016

Theatre Royal, Covent Garden, 1833.

Edmund Kean, the greatest actor of his generation, has collapsed on stage whilst playing Othello. A young black American 10

actor has been asked to take over the role.

But as the public riot in the streets over the abolition of slavery, how will the cast, critics and audience react to the revolution taking place in the theatre?

The Kenneth Branagh Theatre Company has announced the full cast for Red Velvet, the third production in the inaugural Plays at the Garrick season. The production originally premiered at the Tricycle Theatre in 2012 before transferring to St Ann’s Warehouse in New York in 2014. Red Velvet is written by Lolita Chakrabarti with direction by Indhu Rubasingham and stars Adrian Lester as Ira Aldridge [read interview].

Kenneth Branagh said “Writing, direction and performance are exceptional in Red Velvet. I’m immensely proud to be presenting this work”.

The Garrick Theatre 2 Charing Cross Road London, WC2H 0HH .

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.

Raisin in the Sun, Eclipse Theatre

More than 1 million people have seen 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

A RAISIN IN THE SUN Jan 28 - March 26, 2016

Injustice, inequality and a housing crisis lead to family tension in Lorraine Hansberry’s landmark play, revived by the UK’s leading Black-led national touring company Lorraine Hansberry’s groundbreaking play, the first on Broadway written by a Black woman, is to tour the UK in a new production directed by Eclipse Theatre’s Dawn Walton. This intense family drama, written on the cusp of the civil rights era, sees the Younger family await the arrival of a cheque for a life changing $10,000.

Driven to conflict as they encounter issues of inequality, housing and lack of opportunity that continue to resonate today, the play acts as a stark warning to anyone who measures happiness and personal worth in capital gain.

UK tour: 28 Jan – 13 Feb Sheffield Theatres 55 Norfolk St, www. sheffieldtheatres.co.uk | 0114 249 6000; 17 Feb – 20 Feb, New Wolsey Theatre, www.wolseytheatre.co.uk | 01473 295900, 23 – 27 Feb, Nuffield Theatre, www.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk | 023 8067 1771; 2 Mar – 5 Mar, Liverpool Playhouse, www.everymanplayhouse.com | 0151 709 4776; 8 Mar – 12 Mar, Watford Palace Theatre, www. watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk | 01923 225671 ; 16 – 19 Mar, The Albany, www.thealbany. org.uk | 020 8692 4446; 22 – 26 Mar, Belgrade Theatre, www.belgrade.co.uk | 0247 6553055

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Culture

SuperBowl 50 - Cam bids to calm his own storm

It’s the lead-up to what Americans call Super Sunday – the climax of the American football season, which Americans in their trade mark understated way call the Super Bowl. The event on February 7th decides which team becomes the World Champions, even though no other nation has ever supplied a competing team.

I suppose one should expect no less from a country that unilaterally stripped Muhammad Ali of his world, yes WORLD title. I still cannot fathom how the rest of the world, most of which cared not one jot who was conscripted to fight in Vietnam, allowed that to happen.

Anyway, the pre-amble to the Super Bowl is meant to be all happiness and cordiality – and endless press conferences. And it was at one of these that Carolina Panthers quarterback and most valuable player this season, Cam Newton, surprised many people when he interrupted the party atmosphere by saying that race played a

factor in how he was perceived as a quarterback.

However, having stirred up that particular hornets’ nest when America least wanted it stirred, he then, in an interview session with members of the news media on Tuesday, declared the subject closed, at least as far as he was concerned.

“I don’t even want to touch on the subject of black quarterbacks because I believe this game is bigger than black, white or even green,” Newton said in San Jose, California. “We limit ourselves when we label ourselves.”

When Newton was challenged by some reporters to support his earlier assertion, he became somewhat defiant.

“I wanted to bring awareness of that, but I don’t think I should be labelled as just as a black quarterback because there are bigger things in this sport that need to be accomplished,” he said.

While the questioning was more confrontational than a typical pre-Super Bowl news conference, Newton stayed in good spirits and addressed criticism directed at him and his teammates for their on-field celebrations, pointing out that an average NFL play lasts four to six sec-

How Davido’s Brother Lavished Millions on Vacation for US Girlfriend

The couple on their wonderful holiday

Is it all about the money or should one come to terms with the popular saying that money rules the world? Well, some see money as an agenda setting necessity and being born into a wealthy family sometimes gives one an edge though.

The Adelekes are really enjoying their wealth from politics to education to other business empires. While Davido is making money in music, his father making money with his school and other business, his uncle is making it in politics and his brothers are smiling to the bank daily from other businesses too.

Cam Newton polarises opinion about his character, but not his talent

onds, and that people should pay more attention to those stretches of time than to celebrations.

“We have a lot of character and charisma

and personality in the locker room, but the big picture everyone should be talking about is those four to six seconds,” Newton said.

Recently, Davido’s brother, Wale Adeleke, had a lavished vacation with his girlfriend, Jolieden, in Dubai, which he has been hiding for a while from the public.

While the vacation is over, everyone has gone back to their various businesses but the lady, who is based in the United States of America, is yet to forget the lovely time they spent together while in Dubai, as she thanked her man for taking her out.

In her words, “Ya don’t know the half, because it ain’t nobody’s business but me and my baby. Appreciate you babe, miss you already.”

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Friday, 5 February - Thursday, 11 February 2016

News

Are Government Policies Destroying the UK Property Market?

The plethora of government policies will hurt the UK property market, says Godwin Okri

by Godwin Okri The free-market economist, Friedrich Heyek once opined that the free market is not just the most efficient way to organise economic activity but also a guarantor of personal liberty. Most free market economists (including monetarists, Keynesian and neoclassical economists) agree that intense and regular State intervention in the free market could be destructive.

So, how “free” is the UK property market?

The housing shortage and affordability crisis have been identified by the Government as key problems in the UK property market. As a result, the Government has introduced a plethora of policies as panacea to cure the (alleged) ills of the property market, which are the following: Firstly, the Government has introduced the Housing & Planning Bill. This Bill heralds the intention of the Government to build affordable homes for first time buyers (FTB) and to speed up the planning process with a view to delivering more housing.

Secondly, the Government introduced the Help-to-Buy Scheme to encourage FTB access the property ladder. Under this Scheme, FTB can get interest-free loan of up to 40% of the property value provided the FTB has 5% deposit.

The Help-to-Buy ISA was also introduced to gives FTB the opportunity to receive 25% top up payment from the government when they save £200 a month in a dedicated ISA. This would enable FTB raise the deposit required to purchase a home.

Furthermore, the government announced that anyone buying a second home would pay a higher rate of stamp duty. This was introduced in order to keep a tight rein on Buy-to Let investors (BTL), Fifthly, as part of the Finance Act 2015, BTL landlords will be prevented from deducting their mortgage interest costs from their rental income when calculating taxable profit.

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“Another destructive policy by the government is increasing the stamp duty rate for second homes.

From 1 April 2016, anyone buying a second home will pay higher rate of stamp duty. This will lead to unintended consequences which will be destructive to the housing market.”

Lastly, as part of the Immigration Act 2014, all BTL landlords in England are required to check the ID of new tenants before the commencement of their tenancy to ensure they are legally entitled to live in this country. A fine of £3,000 is payable for any breach of this rule.

Are all these laws and policies necessary in a free market economy? Have these policies gone too far so as to have ‘crossed the Rubicon’?

Whilst there is economic benefit for building more affordable homes, it is difficult to see how all the other laws and policies are justified in a country of free enterprise. Firstly, the Help to Buy Scheme and ISA is premised on the false assumption that owning a house is good for everyone, even if they cannot afford it.

The Scheme is a government loan for five years. What happens after the expiration of five years or if the mortgage rate is hike?

This will cause a flood of repossession, the

very thing that caused the 2008 financial crisis.

The desire to increase the number homeownership above the ‘natural’ market rate is likely to lead to a lot of economic pain.

This is a form of “creative destruction”.

In his book “The Financial Crisis and the Free Market Cure”, John Allison refers to actions of this kind as a misallocation of resources which is destructive to the free market. As Paul Ormerod (author of “The Death of Economics”) would say: “When the State attempts to take on that role, it can have the opposite effect to the one intended, making people depend on the State and unable to help themselves.”

Another destructive policy by the government is increasing the stamp duty rate for second homes. From 1 April 2016, anyone buying a second home will pay higher rate of stamp duty. This will lead to unintended consequences which will be destructive to the housing market.

For a start, some BTL investors may transfer the increased expense to their tenants in the form of higher rents. This is destructive to the market as it will lead to cost-push rent inflation, which is counterproductive in economic terms.

Secondly, the fundamental error in raising stamp duty on residential property may limit the supply of affordable homes: increasing stamp duty makes property purchase more expensive, which may drive down demand. As demand falls, developers may be reluctant to risk building more affordable homes, with the result leading to fewer affordable homes being built. It is important to note that developers assess their equity multiples when considering whether to build homes.

The equity multiple is a ratio that compares equity with leverage. Dampening demand by increasing stamp duty will affect this ratio.

Furthermore, the policy by the government preventing BTL landlords from deducting their mortgage interest costs from their rental income when calculating taxable profit goes against established accounting principles. The usual accounting rule is that cost is deducted from income in order to arrive at a profit. Treating gross income as profit runs contrary to this principle and is illogical. The policy is also counterproductive because BTL investors may increase their rent(s) to take account of this illogical policy. The government has failed to factor in human nature; eventually the laws of human nature are what drive all economic activities.

Lastly, the requirement that all BTL landlords check the ID of all new tenants before the commencement of the tenancy is simply adding more layer of bureaucracy and red tape on them. For instance, there are many unanswered questions: Are EEA or EU prospective tenants entitled to live in this country? Would BTL landlords to responsible to checking whether the documents are forged? Where a landlord engages a managing agent, who would be liable for breaches of this rule? Further, the additional expense the majority of the 2 million BTL landlords may incur, as a result of this illogical policy, may have to be borne by innocent tenants.

In sum, the plethora of Government policies will hurt the UK property market. The key message here is this: the Government should not interfere in the market process. A free enterprise society creates an environment of freedom upon which creativity flourish. This guarantees “the greatest happiness of the greatest number”.

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Friday, 5 February - Thursday, 11 February 2016

Japan

Japan sets up Zika quarantine stations at airports

Japan’s health ministry has responded robustly to the World Health Organization’s declaration that the Zika outbreak in South America is an international public health emergency.

The government met Tuesday night to discuss its response to the matter, deciding symptoms of the virus must be reported to a doctor. Besides requiring reporting, the health ministry will step up screening and other protections at quarantine stations for incoming travellers.

While the Zika virus usually causes mild symptoms such as headache, mild fever and aching joints, it is suspected in pregnant women to be the cause of underdeveloped brain sizes in babies, a condition called microcephaly.

“We urge people, particularly pregnant women, to refrain from visiting sites where the disease has spread,” health minister Yasuhisa Shiozaki said. He added that the government will swiftly designate the disease under the law on prevention of infectious diseases and set up special inspection systems.

The government has already started warning people to be aware of the risk and to guard against the virus, through fliers and posters at airport quarantine stations.

The government is urging people who need to travel to Latin America to wear longsleeved shirts and trousers, and to use in-

sect repellents.

Officials are using thermography to monitor the body temperatures of travellers arriving from destinations in Latin America and elsewhere, and are urging people who feel sick to report their illness to officials.

The government is planning to revise

Cabinet and ministerial ordinances to enable quarantine stations to conduct virus screening. It will also distribute reagents to all 47 prefectures to allow more facilities to test for the Zika virus.

So far, no Zika virus infections have been reported in Japan, but three people — a man and a woman who stayed on the French Polynesian island of Bora Bora in 2013 and another man who visited the Thai resort island of Koh Samui in 2014 — were diagnosed with the disease after their return to Japan.

By obtaining information from all the patients, the Health, Labour and Welfare Ministry plans to strengthen its surveillance and take countermeasures such as exterminating mosquitoes, officials said.

According to the World Health Organization, the Zika virus outbreak has been reported in more than 20 countries and regions in the Americas, in particular Brazil, since last year.

On Tuesday, France-based drug maker Sanofi Pasteur said it is launching efforts to research and develop a vaccine to prevent the Zika virus. There is no treatment or vaccine for the virus so far.

Sri Lanka

Another Rajapaksa held amid witch-hunt accusations

Authorities in Sri Lanka have arrested a son of former president Mahinda Rajapaksa on suspicion of money-laundering in the government’s latest attempt to prosecute members of the previous administration, many of whom have been under investigation since Mr Rajapaksa’s election defeat last year.

Police say Mr Rajapaksa’s 27-yearold son, Yoshitha, a lieutenant in the Sri Lankan navy, was questioned for six hours by investigators from the financial crimes investigations division about allegations of misappropriation of funds at a private television channel that is widely believed to be owned by the Rajapaksa family. The family has denied that it owns the channel.

Officers say they questioned Yoshitha and four directors of the Carlton Sports Network (CSN), including its chairman Rohan Welivita, who serves as the former president’s spokesman.

After questioning on Saturday, a magistrate rejected Yoshitha’s bail application and ordered that he be detained for 14 days.

Last week, a government minister told lawmakers that a navy investigation had revealed that Yoshitha had been inappropriately promoted and allowed to attend train-

Seen here being allowed to sit behind the wheel of a Red Bull Racing Formula One race car, Yoshitha Rajapaksa enjoys an international playboy lifestyle

ing programmes in Britain and Ukraine at the government’s expense.

A court official said that four other suspects were also held along with the former president’s son. Among them was Nishantha Ranatunga, a younger brother of Sri Lanka’s World Cup-winning cricket captain Arjuna Ranatunga. Nishantha had been the chief executive of the CSN channel that secured broadcasting rights for all cricket matches.

Yoshitha Rajapaksa is the second member of his family to be arrested since the current government took over in January

last year. Basil Rajapaksa, a brother of the former president and a former economic development minister, was arrested last April on charges of misappropriating public funds, which he denies.

The former president’s eldest son, Namal, and his youngest brother, Gotabhaya, who served as the country’s defence secretary from 2005 to last year, are also the subjects of corruption investigations. But despite the many investigations of members of the former government, few people have been formally charged, leading critics to accuse the current government of

dragging its feet. Saturday’s arrest could be a sign that the investigations are being wrapped up.

In addition to the money-laundering accusation, police say that Yoshitha Rajapaksa and two other relatives are under investigation in connection with the death of star Sri Lankan rugby player Wasim Thajudeen.

Mahinda Rajapaksa has repeatedly asserted that his son is innocent, and on Saturday he was defiant. “Arrest my sons, my wife, my brothers,” he said at a political meeting in Matale, several hours’ drive from Colombo, the capital. “I will not be moved. All these things will only strengthen the Rajapaksa brand.”

Later, after his son was transferred to a Colombo prison, he accused the government of conducting a witch-hunt against his family. Teary-eyed, he said the charges filed against his son were “flimsy”.

“These are all acts of revenge against me.”

The law on money-laundering was introduced to track terrorists’ funds, he said.

“I defeated the terrorists. Today, they are using the same laws to arrest my son.”

Mr Rajapaksa, now an opposition legislator, is himself being investigated for misappropriation of money in a state-run television channel during last year’s presidential polls.

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CRIME

Men jailed for car ringing operation

A major operation by the Metropolitan Police Service targeting a criminal group who stole highvalue vehicles across London has resulted in 11 men being jailed for a total of nearly 48 years.

Under Operation Repsolda, officers from the Organised Vehicle Crime Unit launched an investigation into the gang, who were responsible for stealing vehicles such as BMW 5 and 6 Series and Range Rovers to order, before altering their identities to make them appear legitimate; a process known as ‘ringing’.

Identifying vehicles that had been exported from the UK, the defendants would then make fraudulent applications for their logbooks. The stolen vehicles were then ‘rung’ onto these identities, enabling the ‘rung’ vehicle to be sold on, supported by a genuine logbook. The majority of vehicles were stolen overnight in keyless thefts, while others were stolen by gang members posing as prospective purchasers of vehicles advertised for sale. They then stole the vehicle during the course of a test drive.

Close co-operation between the Met and the DVLA resulted in a large number of fraudulent logbook applications being identified and blocked. Detectives also recovered over 40 stolen vehicles that had been rung, with a total value of around £1.5 million.

In June 2014, officers executed a large number of simultaneous search warrants, arresting the defendants and seizing thousands of pounds in cash as well as completed applications for ve-

Image of equipment used to ring vehicles

hicle logbooks, ‘blank’ car keys that had been programmed for recently stolen vehicles and the equipment that was being used to ring the stolen cars.

The ringleader of the gang, Shiraz Khan, was already in prison for another matter at the time of the searches. Detectives identified that he was phoning his co-defendants from his prison cell and directing them to continue with the criminal enterprise in his absence.

Investigating officer Detective Sergeant Peter Ellis, said: ‘These individuals were well organised and employed sophisticated methods, both to steal the vehicles and to change their identities.

They were ultimately responsible for the theft of a substantial number of high value vehicles, worth millions of pounds.

They have been brought to justice as a result of a joint working approach between the DVLA and the Organised Vehicle Crime Unit. We will continue to work together to disrupt criminal groups in future’.

Confiscation proceedings under the Proceeds of Crime Act are underway.

Ten of the defendants were sentenced at Southwark Crown Court on Friday, 29 January; Yasser Shafiq received his sentence this morning, Monday, 1 February.

Some were sentenced as follows: - Shiraz Khan, 33 of Arlington Road, Camden pleaded guilty to conspiracy to conceal/disguise/convert/remove criminal property and was sentenced to eight years.

- Yasser Shafiq, 31 of Stainforth Road, Walthamstow pleaded guilty to conspiracy to conceal/disguise/convert/ remove criminal property and was sentenced to six-and-a-half years.

- Mohammed Sheraz, 29 of Capel Gardens, Ilford pleaded guilty to conspiracy to conceal/disguise/convert/ remove criminal property and was sentenced to six years.

- Shamoon Haroon, 27 of Fairview Close, Walthamstow pleaded guilty to conspiracy to conceal/disguise/convert/ remove criminal property. He was sentenced to six years and four months.

- Rizwan Alam, 39 of Westerham Road, Leyton pleaded guilty to conspiracy to conceal/disguise/convert/remove criminal property and was sentenced to five years.

- Rayhan Namajee, 32 of Felbrigge Road, Ilford pleaded guilty to conspiracy to conceal/disguise/convert/remove criminal property and was sentenced to five years and four months.

- Amir Rashid, 26 of Sebert Road, Forest Gate pleaded guilty to conspiracy to conceal/disguise/convert/remove criminal property. He was sentenced to five years and four months.

- Nasar Sharif, 34 of Perry Close, Barkingside pleaded guilty to fraud by false representation and was sentenced to three years.

Man jailed for laptop theft

A heartless thief who stole a man’s laptop whilst he was at the funeral of his six-year-old son has been jailed for four-and-a-half years.

Franklyn Mathurin, 47, of no fixed address, had previously pleaded guilty to one count of burglary and had another count of burglary taken into consideration at Harrow Crown Court on Tuesday, 2 February.

The laptop he stole was being used to show photos of a young boy who had died of a rare illness during the service at a church in Hammersmith and Fulham on 2 November 2015.

The funeral took place at Pentecostal City Church on Scrubs Lane, NW10.

During the service, the laptop was being used to show photos of the 14

Franklyn Mathurin

boy’s short life. After the funeral service finished at about 13:00hrs the mourners left the church to go to Kensal Rise for the burial ceremony.

When they returned to the church they discovered the laptop had been stolen.

Following a police investigation, Mathurin was arrested and charged with burglary on 28 November 2015.

The burglary taken into consideration took place at a flat in Harrow Road, NW10, on 17 September 2015 The computer taken was a HP laptop serial number 8CG42003G6. It has still not been recovered and anyone with information on its whereabouts is asked to call Hammersmith and Fulham CID on 020 8246 2505 or to remain anonymous Crimestoppers on 0800 555

Friday, 5 February - Thursday, 11 February 2016

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Sounds of Diaspora People of America

Are US fans ready to cheer the star-spangled hijab?

The United States has witnessed its fair share of sabre rattling this week, which has been noteworthy for the brave if somewhat permatanned face a certain Donald J Trump put on after a deflating showing at the Iowa caucus.

Trump has gathered a surprising amount of support since he outrageously suggested all Muslims should be banned from entering the US until “we” – presumably a we that excludes American Muslims – “find out what’s going on”.

Well one such American Muslim, having earned a bronze medal in the Athens World Cup on Saturday wielding her own sabre, has amassed enough points to secure a spot on the 2016 USA Olympic fencing team.

The announcement of the official roster will not come until April 11, but 30year-old Ibtihaj Muhammad, who chose to take up fencing at 13 mainly because she could participate whilst still adhering to the modest Muslim dress code, will almost certainly become the first US athlete to compete in the Olympics wearing a hi-

jab.

In her journey to obtaining a spot on the US team, New Jersey-born Ibtihaj was a dominant force in the fencing circuit, claiming a silver medal at a World Cup event in 2013 and seven team World Cup medals while being part of a team that took home the gold in the 2014 World Championships.

An owner of her own clothing line called Louella, geared towards women who choose to dress conservatively, Ibtihaj is no stranger to success. While attending Duke University where she graduated with degrees in International Relations and African-American studies, she was a three-time All-American. This is truly an inspiring story, since this phenomenal athlete almost joined the team for the 2012 Olympics before being forced to withdraw due to her tearing a ligament in her hand.

In an interview last year, Ibtihaj spoke of being a role model for Muslim Americans. “People are just appreciative that there is someone that they can show their kids. It’s OK for you to wear hijab and participate in sport,” she said.

Ibtihaj Muhammad took up fencing at 13 because it meant she could remain fully covered while taking part in a sport

Slow sales suggest Ri-Ri must up the ‘Anti’

‘Bitch Better Have My Money’ and ‘American Oxygen’ do not feature on the record, nor does ‘FourFiveSeconds’, her collaboration with Kanye West and Paul McCartney.

Rihanna has reportedly sold less than 1,000 physical copies of her eighth album ‘Anti’ in the US.

Tidal claims it has sold 484,833 downloads of the record, in addition to the one million downloads given away as part of a deal with Samsung. The streaming service also says ‘Anti’ has been streamed 5.6million times.

But industry figures have suggested that physical copies of the record haven’t been selling quite as well. The New York Times reports that chart figures service Nielsen says the album sold less than 1,000 copies in the US. A subscriber to the service who wished to remain anonymous said the specific figure was actually 460.

But despite what would appear to be low sales, ‘Anti’ still debuted at Number One on the iTunes chart.

Tidal, meanwhile, have blamed a “system error” for the accidental leak of the record.

Speaking to Vulture, a representative for Tidal blamed technical faults for the leak.

“Look, we know what happened here, in the sense that unfortunately we still rely on systems, and there was a system error. But I don’t think it hurt it at all,” the spokesperson is quoted as saying.

‘Anti’ features new single ‘Work’ as well as a cover of Tame Impala’s ‘New Person, Same Old Mistakes’ (titled ‘Same Ol’ Mistakes’). Aside from Drake on ‘Work’, there is just one other featured artist on the record; R&B singer SZA. 15

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Gospel

By Michael Adekoya

Friday, 5 February - Thursday, 11 February 2016

THE VICTORIOUS CHRISTIAN LIFE “And this is the victory that has overcome the world-- our faith” (1 John 5:4).

Brethren, we all know what it is to have bad days and unfortunate moments in our life.

However, few of us will ever have to face anything worse than the series of tragedies that occurred in the past to a Christian couple in Chicago... Horatio, age 43, and his wife, Anna, age 29. Horatio was a successful businessman and church elder when an unexpected illness brought the death of his 4 year old little boy, Horatio Jr. And before he and Anna could even recover from the grief of this loss, another sudden tragedy occurred... a devastating fire that destroyed Horatio’s business and financial interests. The family literally lost everything they owned and had to start over. Then less than two years later, while planning a trip abroad with his wife and four daughters, Horatio was delayed and he sent his family on ahead by ship... only to learn a short time later that the vessel collided with another in the Atlantic and sank. His wife was one of only twenty-seven, out of several hundred passengers who survived... while all four daughters were drowned. I cannot imagine the devastating loss and grief that these parents endured over this short period. However, despite this catastrophe, they both remained steadfast, clinging to their faith in God. As Horatio made the long ocean journey to meet his surviving wife, he sailed past the site of his daughters watery graves. As he did, his grief was overcome with a greater sense of peace and victory in his soul, and was inspired to pen the words to what became a famous hymn of the church.

Below is the first stanza from Horatio Spafford’s hymn in 1873: It Is Well with My Soul When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, It is well, it is well with my soul.

This grieving father was able to attest of a wellness in his soul, not because of the tragic circumstances, but from his greater abiding trust and confidence in God. Victory comes by Faith This kind of “peace” and inner “wellness” refers to an inward disposition of faith, an attitude of victorious confidence that refuses to surrender our will to what appears as total defeat. While all appears to be lost, yet we trust in the unseen plan and purpose of the omnipotent God, in whom we have trusted our lives. He is in control, He is God almighty… and through Him, we will eventually rise above every adversity.

“Victory” refers to that inner peace of God which surpasses all understanding (Phil. 4:7). It’s the joy of the Lord which is our strength (Neh. 8:10). It is the inner confidence that overcomes discouragement, doubt and unbelief. It is the assurance that God is in control, and as we love the Lord and live a life wholly consecrated to Him, we know all things and circumstances are somehow working together for our good. “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). God wants all his children to live a victorious life; however, this is only possible through the walk of faith. Faith is that which enables us overcome all the trials, adversities and circumstances of his world (1 John 5:4).

A victorious life of faith no longer lives by feelings, emotions or circumstances. It is no longer manipulated by the emotions of discouragement or depression. As people of faith, we live and abide according to what the Word of God says, not by what the circumstances say. “We walk by faith and not by sight” (2 Cor. 5:7). This walk of faith is what brings victory.

The scriptures teach that every Christian will face many trials and disappointments in this life and He promises to deliver us from them all.

“Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivers him out of them all” (Psalms 34:19). However, we must understand, our deliverance and victory may not always mean the immediate alteration of our circumstances. God may not always choose, or be at liberty, to change some external circumstances immediately. Instead, He will change YOU internally so that you can “endure” the circumstances. This is what Paul meant when he said he could be “content” regardless of what state he found himself (Phil.

4:11).

Despite our circumstances, we can have victory and peace in our heart, with the patience to endure until He alters our situation. One Chris-

­­

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

tian wife cried continually to the Lord about her alcoholic husband. She could not bear the continual heartache, the strife and embarrassment.

She urgently prayed that God would transform the man and heal her marriage. God also wanted to change that man, but He will not force anyone to serve him. So since the wife had no biblical grounds for divorce, she had to learn to endure and be patient for God to deal with the husband’s heart. In this situation, her deliverance came internally as the Lord relieved her burden. He protected her from physical abuse and gave her peace and joy in her heart. Today her husband has still not turned to the Lord, but her peace and joy is no longer postponed to a future time when he might change. She lives each day in victory -- with God’s peace and joy rooted firmly in her heart.

God does not bring evil upon us (James 1:17), but sometimes, for His specific purposes, He has placed persons in challenging situations for the cause of Christ. And in other situations, it may be just a matter of time for the Lord to change our circumstances. But in the meantime, you can find peace and refuge in His presence. “The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, A refuge in times of trouble” (Psa. 9:9).

God promised to make a way of “escape” in the midst of distress, enabling us to “bear” certain temptations or trials. “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it” (1 Cor. 10:13). That way of “escape” is the presence and peace of God which abides in us to give us victory in the midst of the conflict - peace in the middle of turmoil. The presence of God in our life enables us to “bear” certain hardships and difficulties. And notice that it says He will not allow you endure an ordeal beyond your ability. That’s something to always remember.

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

Perhaps there is no one who knew how to live the victorious life better than the Apostle Paul. He was a man of great faith and strength with God, but he endured circumstances that were almost unbelievable. He wrote of his ordeals in the ministry: “... in labors more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequently, in deaths often. From the Jews five times I received forty stripes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods; once I was stoned; three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I have been in the deep; in journeys often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils of my own countrymen, in perils of the Gentiles, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; in weariness and toil, in sleeplessness often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness-- besides the other things, what comes upon me daily: my deep concern for all the churches” (2 Cor. 11:23-28).

Despite his tribulations, Paul didn’t lose sight of his victory. He wrote, “We are hard pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed” (2 Cor. 4:8-9).

Paul’s life and ministry were filled with tremendous hardship, but his attitude remained confident and resisted defeat. “...But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Cor. 15:57).

If you are facing trying situations, don’t allow them to rob you of your victory! The Bible tells us that “God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble” (Psa. 46:1). You are not alone. Jesus has promised to never leave you nor forsake you (Heb. 12:13). Turn your attention to Him and His Word. Wait upon Him and He will strengthen you with His peace. “You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You” (Isa. 26:3). By faith, release your cares, your concerns and worries to Him. Trust Him to work out the end result.

He will either change your circumstance or will change you to deal with them! Take His rest and peace upon you, believing that He has taken the burden from you. “Cast all your cares upon him because he cares for you” (1 Pet. 5:7). Remember and follow the Apostle Paul’s example. He knew adversity at its worst, but also knew that circumstances need never threaten the joy and victory of the believer. He wrote, “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? ...Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us” (Rom. 8:35,37). 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

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Friday, 5 February - Thursday, 11 February 2016

Africa Newsround

Kenya

South Africa

Police recover stolen patrol vehicle, killing four rebels Jail for killers in SA’s 2015 anti-migrant mob violence

Four suspected al Shabaab militants were shot and killed on Sunday after security officers tracked a stolen National Police Service vehicle to Boni Forest.

Kenya Defence Forces military spokesman Col. David Obonyo said the vehicle, which had been stolen in December last year in Lamu County, was recovered by a multi-agency security team patrolling the vast forest in an intelligence-led operation. The team also recovered four AK47 rifles, three improvised explosive devices and other assorted ammunition.

“Security forces patrolling the Kenya-Somalia border along Boni

Forest picked up the trail and engaged the terrorists in a gunfight. Four of the suspects were killed, while two managed to escape with bullet wounds,” Obonyo said in a statement, adding that police then recovered the stolen Ford Ranger vehicle along with the weapons and explosives.

They pursued the other suspects who escaped into the forest.

A major operation has been launched to track the militia, who are believed to be behind the recent attacks on security personnel in Boni Forest. The attacks include the planting of IEDs, which blew up a police vehicle killing seven administration police officers last week in Lamu County.

Mthinta Bhengu, pictured (right) in court, was photographed in the act of stabbing Mozambique migrant Emmanuel Sithole, who later died

Two South Africans who beat and stabbed a Mozambican man to death during a wave of xenophobic violence in April last year were sentenced to 17 and 10 years in prison on Monday, according to local media.

Mthinta Bhengu and Sifundo Mzimela, who were caught on camera attacking Mozambican national Emmanuel Sithole in a township in the economic hub of Johannesburg, were found guilty of murder in November. Bhengu, who has a previous conviction for violent crime, received the

harsher sentence, 702 Talk Radio reported.

Magistrate Van der Schyff said Bhengu continued to attack the Mozambican vendor even while the victim was begging for mercy, according to the report.

“It is not acceptable that a person should be killed in this manner,” said Van der Schyff.

The wave of anti-immigrant attacks began in the eastern KwaZulu Natal province in April before flaring up in Johannesburg.

At least seven people were killed, while hundreds of foreigners fled to safety camps as South Africa’s government sent in troops to quell the unrest.

Gambia

Gambia Govt officers imprisoned for skin bleaching Gambia’s dictator Yahya Jammeh is being accused of abusing his office for ordering the detention of female immigration officers who appear to have bleached their skin.

The female officers have been “confined to barracks” and denied access to their families for over a month. According to sources close to the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), President Jammeh has instructed security chiefs not to release the officers until their natural skin colour returns.

According to the source, a “significant number” of female officers were pulled aside during a parade and taken to the Tanji Immigration Training School following a directive issued by Jammeh abolishing skin bleaching in his government. The officers have reportedly spent their time in detention cleaning the training school and being exposed to other “degrading punishments”.

“Yahya Jammeh has indeed abused his office. He is violating the rights and liberties of Gambians with impunity. If a given female officer decides to bleach her skin,

Describing women who bleach their skin as “ugly in the eyes of Allah”, Jammeh said in December that his campaign against the “ungodly” practice in The Gambia will never end

that’s her business. That’s none of Yahya Jammeh’s business.

“Female serving members of our Force have been rounded up and detained at the Tanji Immigration Training School. The world should know that Gambian women

are being violated by this mad dictator,” said the source, who wishes to remain anonymous.

“What Jammeh is doing tantamount to an assault against our women folks. He is kidnapping our female officers in the

name of trying to eradicate skin bleaching.

Women rights groups should come to the aid of these poor serving female officers of our Force. Yahya Jammeh is imprisoning them without any court order. This is absurd! Jammeh needs to be stopped,” the source added.

A senior Immigration officer, who also spoke on condition of anonymity, said the confinements to barracks followed a command received from President Jammeh to detain female officers who are in the business of bleaching their skin.

“We received a memo from the Office of the President instructing us to dismiss female officers who are in the habit of bleaching their skin. The memo also talks about disciplinary action to be taken against skin bleachers up to termination of one’s employment with the Force.

“In order to punish them, the President asked us to hold the female officers hostage at the Tanji Immigration Training School.

The officers wouldn’t be released until the colour of their skin turn black. This is an order from the President,” said the officer.

17

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Friday, 5 February - Thursday, 11 February 2016

Nigerian News

Why we are investing energy in Cocoa production – Aregbesola

Revenues from Cocoa and other prominent farms produce in which Osun has comparative advantages have great capacities to turn around the economy and fortunes of the state if pursued with renewed vigor.

The Governor of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, who stated this assured that his administration will leave no stone unturned to make the state great again, hence the recent investment and research into Cocoa production and the focus on other areas of agriculture.

The governor stated that for the state to start on a good footing at producing ‘Cocoa Omoluabi’, the state has enumerated and identified sixty million active cocoa trees in the state.

Aregbesola, while meeting with Cocoa Produce Merchants in the state at the Government House Banquet Hall in Osogbo, stated that with new cocoa development initiatives in the state, there will be a new cash inflow making the economy of the state prosperous.

He stated that the state has also gone further in her bid to boost cocoa production and Agriculture with the signing of Memorandum of under standing with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) on the development of agriculture and production of massive food production as alternative to reliance on oil sector.

The agreement according to Aregbesola involved releasing of 204.39 hectares of land in Ago Owu Farm Settlement to IITA for the purposes of conducting research and setting up demonstration farms for best farming practices.

IITA will also carry out cassava, plantain and other crops multiplication including Cocoa as well as train the youths in the state in modern, commercial and profitable farming.

Aregbesola emphasised that the state in her bid to increase Internally Generated Revenue in Osun, government will establish commodity board that will be supervised directly by the office of the governor to ensure that Osun ranks among the best cocoa producers in Nigeria within the next two years.

He told the produce merchants that the economic situation of the state has been badly affected with the pillaging of the national treasury by the previous administration.

Aregbesola added that the situation with the drop in oil prices and the sharp reduction in the Federation Accounts from N1.2 trillion in 2012 to N369 18

billion in November allocations shared in December 2015 has reduced the running of government to little or nothing hence the need to look inward in increasing IGR. The governor noted that the state will soon bounce back‎ with the identification of sixty million Cocoa trees presently in the state, adding that government henceforth will criminalise any action of farmers and merchants that runs afoul of government laws on cocoa.

He pointed out that government will soon be registering all farmers in the state for easy implementation of government policies on agriculture thus giving adequate room for monitoring and giving the necessary support for farmers.

According to him, “to show the people of the state that we are ready to face agriculture squarely in Osun, I am establishing a commodity board that will be supervised directly from the office of the governor.

“Our bags of cocoa in Osun will be branded with this; government will be able to ensure that the quality of cocoa coming out of the state meets international quality.

When there was free money coming from oil, no government was looking at what cocoa could bring to the economy; we are back to the days where cocoa will be the main stay of our economy in Osun”. The governor emphasised.

Aregbesola hinted that Produce tribunals will be set up across the state and that special colour will be given to vehicles that will be transporting cocoa within the state.

The governor added that the State Executive Council meetings will be held in rural areas where cocoa farming is thriving in the state for about six months to one year after the formation of his cabinet.

Earlier, the Chairman of All farmers Association of Osun, Chief Raheem Adeniji stated that the association is ready to partner and cooperate with government in her bid to revamp the cocoa farming in the state.

He lamented the poor economic state the country has found it with the neglect of cocoa which he said was the back bone of the economy in the 60s, identifying the cancellation of Cocoa and marketing Board by the then military government as a setback for the industry in Nigeria.

Adeniji commended government for introducing E-payment, adding that government should ensure and maintain that Osun cocoa should not go out of the state.

From Left- First President, Academic Staff Union of Universities {ASUU},Professor Biodun Jeyifo, Governor State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Chairman of the Occasion, Barrister Femi Falana (SAN), Keynote Speaker, Professor Attahiru Jega, and Professor Kole Omotoso during the 70th Birthday of Prof. Biodun Jeyifo, at the International Conference Centre, Obafemi Awolowo University

Governor State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, exchanging greetings with Dr. Seinde Arigbede,during the 70th Birthday of the first President, Academic Staff Union of Universities {ASUU},Prof. Biodun Jeyifo, at International Conference Centre, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife

Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (2nd left); Dr. Edwin Madunagu (left), his wife, Professor Bene Madunagu (2nd right) and Dr. Wumi Raji (right), during a Courtesy Visit to the Governor, at Government House, Osogbo,

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Friday, 5 February - Thursday, 11 February 2016

Nigerian News

Buhari Attends Syria Donor Conference in London

President Muhammadu Buhari is among the over 80 world leaders who converged on London on Thursday for the ‘Supporting Syria and the region’ conference holding at the Queen Elizabeth 11 Conference Centre in London.

In his speech, President Buhari applauded the initiative to protect the people of Syria from the vicious war.

He joined the world in condemning the violence and abuse of human rights and sheer destruction of lives and property.

He said that Nigeria shares the same experience with Syria following the experience from Boko Haram insurgency and therefore feels the pains the people of Syria feel.

He urged all the parties to engage in peaceful talks as only a political agreement

would bring the tragedy to an end.

He said that military option would only prolong the war and killing of innocent civilians. He extended the sympathy of Nigerians to the suffering people of Syria.

He pledged to support in spite of the difficulties back home.

Also speaking, the Secretary General of the United Nations, Mr Ban Ki Moon, joined the host president and British Prime Minister, Mr David Cameron, to condemn the human rights abuses going on in Syria.

Mr Cameron was passionate about the call to raise fund for the suffering masses in Syria but called for more action while the UN Secretary General Ban KI Moon said that at least seven billion dollars must be raised.

According to him, even if the war in Syria ends immediately, the suffering of

All politicians from 1999 till date are guilty of Nigeria’s predicament – Saraki

President Muhammadu Buhari

the people would not end immediately. He said that only political dialogue can rescue the Syrian people.

The world leaders said that over 80 billion US Dollars would be needed in 2016 alone to keep up with the needs.

They said that the whole world have a responsibility to commit to getting Syrian

children into school, within months and not years.

Every country under the United Nations had a desk in the main plenary room.

Over 13.5 million people of Syria and the region, for over five years, have witnessed the worst humanitarian devastation following the crisis in that country.

The Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, on Tuesday said all political stakeholders in Nigeria, especially from 1999 till date, are guilty of the predicament that the country is currently, arguing that no one should be spared.

He said all public office holders in Nigeria since 1999, were involved in at different times in the mistakes of the past that led the country to the present political and economic mess.

Saraki said this against the backdrop of allegation of profligacy leveled by former President Olusegun Obasanjo against the National Assembly as contained in a letter he wrote to the leadership some few days ago.

As if providing an answer to the posers

by Obasanjo on National Assembly budget, Saraki during a meeting with Senate Correspondent said it was wrong for anybody to hold an individual or group of people responsible for the mess of the past.

He said, ” We’ve all been here since 1999 up to the recent past when things were not done right, we are all part of it. I was there, you were there, every other political office holder in different capacities were there as well.

“My own view from the 8th National Assembly is that the time for collective participation for the good of all Nige-

Senator Saraki

rians is here with us in line with the change mantra of the present administration . We are all on the same page for things to be done differently.

“I think what we need now from all stakeholders , is more of cooperation, encouragement and participation as oppose to trying to hold one person responsible for the mistakes of the past that we are all part of .It is clearly not the right thing needed now.

“I Appeal to you, I appeal to all Nigerians that we should work together just as I assure you all that we will do well here in NASS to practically complement the change agenda”.

19

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Friday, 5 February - Thursday, 11 February 2016

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Friday, 5 February - Thursday, 11 February 2016

CHAN 2016: DRC beat Guinea on penalties DR Congo edged Guinea 5-4 on penalties to reach the final of the African Nations Championship for the second time.

The Congolese, winners of the maiden edition in 2009 in Cote d’Ivoire were on the brink of victory after TP Mazembe forward Jonathan Bolingi headed them into the lead in extra time, only for Guinea to draw level with virtually the last kick through Ibrahima Sory Sankhon.

The highly favoured Congolese had to sweat for the victory against a determined Guinean side which held them barren in regulation time.

The match got off to an electrifying start with DR Congo taking control from the start. Most of the action was played in the half of the Guineans whilst DR Congo captain Joel Kimwaki thwarted the few rare attacks by the West Africans.

Forward Bolingi was heavily policed by the Guinean backline of Mohamed Youla and Abuobacar Camara, but still managed to lay some good passes to Mechak Elia and Doxa Gikanji.

Gikanji on two occasions struck shots that missed narrowly letting the Guineans off the hook.

DR Congo players celebrate their penalty shoot out win during the 2016 CHAN Rwanda semifinal game between DR Congo and Guinea at Amahoro Stadium, Kigali on 3 February 2016 ©Ryan Wilkisky

The last five minutes of the first half belonged to the ‘Syli Nationale’ and Sanknon forced a good save from DR Congo goalie Ley Matampi who spilled his thunderbolt from a free-kick just before the break.

The second half was a balanced with both teams starting on a positive footing with possession switching intermittently for either side.

The best chance of the game came the way of the 2009 champions three minutes from time as Gikanji’s shot from close range ricocheted off the crossbar with Guinea goalie Abdoul Aziz Keita beaten.

Just as the first half, Guinea were the better side in the closing stages but their attempts at goal were foiled by the Congolese backline forcing the game into extra time.

Twelve minutes into extra time, Bolingi shot the Leopards into the lead by heading home from substitute Guy Lusadisu’s cross past a hapless Keita.

The Congolese held on and just on the stroke of time, Guinea replied with the equalizer through Sankhon who riffled home a thunderbolt that left Matampi with no option.

During penalties, Matampi saved the decisive kick of Youla as the Congolese reached the final for the second time. Captain Kimwaki, Michel Mika, Bolingi, Gikanji and Elia scored for the Congolese whilst Sankhon, Aboubacar Camara, Aboubacar Bangoura and Daouda Camara converted for the Guineans.

DR Congo will play the winner of Cote d’Ivoire – Mali in Sunday’s final, whilst Guinea squares the loser in the battle for bronze.

Nigeria move up in FIFA Rankings Mali beat Ivory Coast and reach final

Yves Bissouma (left)

Joel Obi

Teams will be drawn in five groups to play Nigeria have moved three places on home and away basis with the overall group up in the latest FIFA Rankings to winners qualifying for the World Cup in Rusnow be 63rd in the world.

The win against Niger and draw with Tunisia at CHAN 2016 have improved the Eagles ratings.

However, they are now 12th in Africa with Cote d’Ivoire still the best ranked African team as they are 28th in the world.

Nigeria’s AFCON rivals Egypt are now 55th in the world and eighth in Africa.

The FIFA rankings are expected to be one of the things to consider when the draw for the final round of the qualifying tournament for the 2018 World Cup is done in June.

22

sia.

Meanwhile, Nigeria midfielder Joel Obi is fit again after he returned to the squad for Torino on Wednesday in a 2-2 draw at Sampdoria.

Obi, who has been out injured for several weeks, was an unused substitute for Torino.

The former Inter Milan midfielder last played for Torino on September 27 in a 2-1 win over Parlemo, a game in which he was sent off.

The creative midfielder’s career has been plagued by a series of injury.

Obi has played for Inter Milan and Parma.

Substitute Yves Bissouma scored the winner two minutes from time to send Mali into the final at the expense of Cote d’Ivoire in their semifinal match on Thursday in Kigali.

Bissouma struck on the 88 minutes as ‘Les Aiglons’ reached the final of the tournament designed exclusively for footballers playing in their domestic leagues for the first time.

It was a deserving win for Mali who even missed a penalty in the first half and was by far the better side in the second half.

Mali will face DR Congo in Sunday’s final whilst Cote d’Ivoire squares Guinea in the battle for bronze.

It was the Ivorians who took the game to the Malians in the opening minutes. ‘Les Elephants almost broke the deadlock on nine minutes when Essis Aka’s shot bounced off the post with Mali goalie Djigui Diarra completely beaten.

The pendulum then swung the direction of the Malians and Sekou Koita forced a superb save from Ivorian goalie Badra Ali Sangare on 27 minutes.

Four minutes later, ‘Les Aiglons’ were rewarded a penalty after Cheikh Ibrahim Comara handled in the vital area. However, Sangare denied Mamadou Coulibaly with a good save from the spot.

The second half belonged to Mali and they dominated possession, but found the Ivorian backline a nut too hard to crack.

Substitute Nguessan Kouame and Koita troubled the Ivorian defence often with the former missing a golden chance to put his side up on 58 minutes.

The introduction of Bissouma gave the Malians more option in attack and two minutes from time a cross from Sekou Diarra found Hamidou Sinayoko, who headed to Bissouma to slot home past Ali Badra.

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Friday, 5 February - Thursday, 11 February 2016

Bafana Bafana mark 20th Anniversary The 3rd of February marks the 20th anniversary since Bafana Bafana lifted the coveted Africa Cup of Nations trophy on home soil with a heart-stopping 2-0 win over Tunisia at a packed FNB Stadium.

With South African Football Association’s (SAFA) Vision 2022 in full throttle, Technical Director and the man who led the country to that historic win, Neil Tovey, says the country was heading back to the top and implored everyone to embrace the ambitious idea.

“When we took to the field, little did we know we were creating a piece of history on the day, history that will define this country for years to come.

“We took to the field with no pressure at all and our intention was just to win the game. We never knew it would take ages to repeat the same feat but with Vision 2022, I am glad and hopeful that we are headed back to the top again,” said Tovey.

The former Bafana Bafana captain said 1996 was the greatest moment of his sporting career and receiving the trophy from the late Father of the Nation, Nelson Mandela, still gives him goose bumps.

“Images of the team receiving the trophy and celebrating the win are still idolised across the continent and the globe and one cannot ask for a better sporting memory.”

Winning coach Clive Barker says memories of 1996 come once in a lifetime and his only regret is the passing on of Sizwe Motaung and John ‘Shoes’ Moshoeu.

“I would have loved the two to be part of the 20th anniversary of this great sporting

Oliseh, NFF: REVIEW CHAN 2016

Sunday Oliseh

AFCON winners

feat as they both played pivotal roles in that achievement. I remember vividly Shoes playing as a man possessed in the semifinal win over Ghana which earned him the man-of-the-match award,” remembers Barker.

“It was tremendous for the country more so with rugby having won the World Cup a year earlier. But it was the first win over Cameroon that set the tone for the entire tournament.

“But all in all, we had a special bunch of players, a group of players that was intent on achieving something for the country. In all this however, we must not forget the role played by the late Nelson Mandela in encouraging the players - he literally was the 12th player during the tournament,” added Barker.

SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan also recalled the 1996 win and promised the

The technical committee of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to meet in Uyo to discuss the country’s failure at CHAN 2016. The country’s team led by coach Sunday Oliseh failed to go past the first round of the CHAN in Rwanda.

nation that the good times are around the corner once again.

“If one looks at the way our junior teams have performed on the continent, one will believe that Vision 2022 is the bedrock on which future success will be built.

“Our u17 qualified for the World Cup in Chile, our u20 won the Commonwealth Cup in Russia and missed the World Cup in New Zealand by a whisker and u23 are off to the 2016 Rio Olympics together with Banyana Banyana.

“The future is looking bright again and our national teams are beginning to compete with major players on the globe,” said the SAFA President.

Dr Jordaan also revealed that the entire squad, the technical team and support staff will be honoured later this year at a gala dinner. The details will be announced soon.

Oliseh is expected to submit a technical report from this tournament, which the committee will deliberate upon as the country steps up plans for two crucial AFCON 2017 qualifiers against Egypt in March.

Media reports have suggested Oliseh is averse to reporting to the committee, which is headed by Chris Green.

He did not return with the team from Rwanda and rather headed back to his base in Belgium to further fuel speculations about his future.

Several top foreign coaches like Claude Le Roy and Herve Renard have indicated interest to take over the Eagles.

Bench-warmers get up for the Cup

Finnish club announce arrival of league hotshot Salami

Continued from back page He has now scored eight times this season, more than many regular picks.

On Sunday, beleaguered Chelsea put their Premier League woes behind them to thrash Championship side MK Dons 5–1 away from home. With the match looking to be in the bag, manager Guus Hiddink brought on Bertrand Traore for main striker Diego Costa, and the 20-year-old Burkino Faso front man didn’t wait long to repay his boss’s faith.

Barely five minutes after taking the field in the 57th minute, Traore found himself on the end of a cut-back from the left by Eden Hazard, which he side-footed into the goal first time with the assurance of a player that plays every week.

Everton also had to navigate their way past lower league opposition in League Two side Carlisle United at their tight Brunton Park stadium. And 32-year-old

Arouna Kone wasted no time getting onto the scoresheet. In the Merseysiders’ second cup tie of the week – they succumbed narrowly to the multi-millionaires of Manchester City in the second leg of their Capital One Cup semi-final – they nevertheless fielded a fairly strong side, which paid off within two minutes of the start when speedy Aaron Lennon found Ivorian forward Kone arriving in the six yard box for a tap-in.

The goal, Kone’s seventh of the season, set Everton on their way to a 3-0 success.

And the efforts of their busy week clearly did not take too much out of them since they managed to defeat Newcastle United by the same 3-0 scoreline three days later in their mid-week Premier League clash.

Watford’s Odion Ighalo has been anything but a bit-part player for the Hornets this season. Watford’s goal-scoring talis-

man came to their rescue once again with a late goal as Quique Sanchez Flores’s side won 1-0 at Championship club Nottingham Forest. Rested from the starting line-up, the Nigeria international came off the bench in the 72nd minute at the City Ground and struck a minute from time after Forest defender Kelvin Wilson miscued a clearance, slamming home rightfooted for his 15th goal of the season, and 10th in 15 games.

Also in the Cup, Senegalese striker Souleymane Doukara broke the deadlock in the eighth minute as Leeds United progressed to the last 16 by winning 2-1 at fellow second-tier representatives Bolton Wanderers.

Doukara let fly with his left foot from the edge of the box and although Bolton goalkeeper Ben Amos got his body behind the ball, it squirmed through him and bounced into the net.

Nigeria

international

Gbola-

han Salami has joined Finnish club Kuopio Palloseura (KuPS) to team up with his Warri Wolves teammate, Azubuike Egwuekwe.

The club announced on their website that the

ex-Shooting Stars forward has signed a year’s deal with an option of another year.

The 24-year-old was the top scorer in Nigeria

league in the 2014/2015 season with 17 goals.

He opted to stay out of CHAN 2016 so as to

finalise his move to Europe.

Last year January, Salami moved to Serbian

club Red Star Belgrade, but returned to Nigeria

to join Warri Wolves after the club could not pay his wages.

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Friday, 5 February - Thursday, 11 February 2016 ISSUE 615

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Nigeria move up in FIFA Rankings

SUB-LIME SEE PAGE 22

Bench-warmers get up for the Cup

Kelechi Iheanacho netted his first hat-trick as a pro in Manchester City’s 4-0 humbling of Aston Villa

By Alan Oakley

The weekend’s FA Cup games were notable for bit-part African strikers who seized rare opportunities to hit the net.

The stand-out performance came from Manchester City’s Kelechi Iheanacho, a pe-

rennial substitute who crowned a surprise start against Aston Villa with the first hat-trick of his senior career as Manuel Pellegrini’s side breezed into the fifth round with a 4-0 victory.

The 19-year-old Nigerian opened the scoring from close range in the fourth minute, netted an ice-cool penalty 20 minutes later and

completed his treble 14 minutes from time by

intercepting a sloppy back-pass from Villa’s Senegalese midfielder Idrissa Gueye and running through to calmly slot home.

Continued on page 23

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