The Afropolitan Edition 34

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ISSUE 34, 2013

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C O N T E N T S

in this issue

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14

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4 Editor's

Note

SA Is The ‘America’ Of The Continent

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36

Fashion Forward

56

Fruity, Beautiful Skin & Razor Sharp

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48

Wildlife In Crisis

Tsotsi In The Boardroom 20 Q&A Khaya Dlanga Uwe Koetter Jewellers

Tribute 31

Farewell Chinua Achebe

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2

62

Personal Finance

Feature

To The Ones That Follow

Entrepreneurship 50

Tomorrow’s Business Stars

68

Winter Warmers For Your Home

Reviews

24

14

The Heart Of The House

Afro Decor

Fashion

Africa Hopeless No More

50

Travel

64 65 40 Is The Long Walk To Financial

Freedom Shorter Than You Think? 66 67 Business 42 Learning To Tell Our Own Stories 68 71

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31

42

Beauty

Features

24

36

Lifestyle

Reader's Experience 6

20

Movie Reviews Cd Review Book Review Whisky Review Afro Wheels Executive Toys

Column 72

If You Want People To Remember Something, Write It Down

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EDITOR'S NOTE A

frica’s story is a tale often misunderstood, with several parts untold. The perception of Africa is a result of misguided perceptions and, at times irresponsible reporting.

Our main feature investigates what foreign countries think of Africa looking at how and why it has changed over the decades. Our business feature touches on the industry of telling news and renowned journalist Simon Allison tells the repercussions of Africa not being able to afford to tell its own news.

With Youth Day coming up, we profile one of South Africa’s brightest young stars, Khaya Dlanga and get to know the man behind the Twitter handle. For many of our youth the struggle to survive is still real and in this issue we also discuss a variety of topics that pertain to the youth; such as the issue of mentorship, or the lack thereof, and what it means to have true economic and financial freedom with an aim to educate.

Our profile feature pays tribute to Africa’s literary giant, Chinua Achebe, a man who made it his life’s goal to telling African stories. May his soul rest in peace.

the team editor Brendah Nyakudya

contributors Alyn Adams Craig Gradridge Damian Murphy Dominique Wolf Simon Williamson Elka Schaimberg Simon Allison Eli Nyakudya Stacey Vee Tendai Maidza

publishing house Contact Media & Communications 388 Main Avenue, Randburg Block A Tel: +27(0) 11 789 6339 Fax: +27(0) 11 789 7097 email: pressman@contactmedia.co.za web: www.contactmedia.co.za

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All this and lots more in this issue of Afropolitan.

Enjoy the read!

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Copyright © 2010 Contact Media & Communications. The Afropolitan is published by Contact Media & Communications.

All material is strictly copyright with all rights reserved. No material may be reproduced in part or whole without the express written permission of the publisher. No responsibility will be accepted for unsolicited material. The publisher accepts no liability of whatsoever nature arising out of or in connection with the contents of this publication. Whilst every care has been taken in compiling this publication, the publisher does not give any warranty as to the completeness or accuracy of its contents.

The views and opinions expressed in The Afropolitan are not necessarily those of the Publisher, Kaya FM or contributors.

R E A D E R ' S

E X P E R I E N C E

SA is the

W

hile the Zambian vicepresident Guy Scott’s remarks about South Africa earlier this year may have stung a wee bit, his claims weren’t altogether untrue. Anyone who doesn’t see the comparison between South Africa and the rest of the continent – to which we often refer to as if we are not on it – has missed a common feeling towards the southernmost nation.

Scott said to The Guardian’s David Smith: “I hate South Africans. That’s not a fair thing to say because I like a lot of South Africans but they really think they’re the bees’ knees and actually they’ve been the cause of so much trouble in this part of the world.”

He added, “I dislike South Africa for the same reason that Latin Americans dislike the United States, I think. It’s just too big and too unsubtle.”

As I live in the USA such criticism is common across the news and opinion feeds I consume. Along with my inperson and online peers, I spend a good deal of time criticising the USA’s influence where it is often not wanted.

I have delved into the sad tales of Cold War effects on a range of African countries, and modern-day western 6

influences often driven by the USA. Take the reign of Egypt’s Hosni Mubarak for example.

International criticism of the USA, within the USA, is not delved into by the general population. And to ignore that parallel with South Africa would be foolish, and is especially shocking considering what places like Zambia contributed to the anti-apartheid movement.

South Africans do not know much about the continent that stretches out above them yet we often get our way when it comes to dealing with it due to our outsized influence.

Take last year’s vote on the chairmanship of the African Union, which was eventually won by our very own Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, violating the unwritten rule that smaller countries should hold the chair to avoid more dominant ones forcing through their own agenda.

South Africa in the last few years has gone it alone in terms of foreign policy, like in the aftermath of Ivory Coast elections in 2010 (during which we managed to upset regional group Ecowas). Then there’s SA’s confusing set of decisions regarding Libya, in

which it voted for a no-fly zone and then proceeded to criticise the UN and Nato for acting upon it. And there’s the Central African Republic.

Take a look at South Africa’s most major foreign policy influence: Zimbabwe. Allegedly, efforts to have fair elections there are being orchestrated under the banner of the Southern African Development Community (of which Zambia is a member), but are, quite simply, South African.

Scott also remarked on this, comparing President Jacob Zuma to former President FW de Klerk and adding, “He tells us, ‘You just leave Zimbabwe to me.’

Excuse me, who the hell liberated you anyway. Was it not us?”

A portion of Scott’s comments was nonsense. But otherwise it was dead on.

And if South Africa wants to influence goings-on in Africa, it best heed some of the disapproval heading its way.

With the amount of resources and cash and power South Africa has, it is easy to ignore our continental allies, which we do regularly. Arrogance can easily drown out justified criticism. There’s a good reason the USA is often slammed.

And it’s completely congruent with why South Africa is too.

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by Simon Williamson

‘America’ of the continent

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F E A T U R E

by Brendah Nyakudya

M A I N

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Africa

Hopeless No More

T

he world order has continuously been shaped and reshaped by the populace that carries the most resources. From the Stone and Iron ages, through papal times to modern day societies, the formation of new world orders has been largely influenced by shifts in economic power.

Historically, the need to hold economic power led to the lead actors on the world stage taking aggressive measures such as war and colonisation to secure it. These actions resulted in power exchanging hands between Western and European nations at the expense of weaker states, many on the African continent.

At the end of the colonial era Africa leaders took charge but that did not usher in a new dawn of independence for the continent. In her paper Political Leaders in Africa: Presidents, Patrons or Profiteers? academic Jo-Ansie van Wyk states: “The perception is that African leaders rule failed states that have acquired tags such as ‘corruptocracies’, ‘chaosocracies’ or ‘terrorocracies’.”

At that time, African leaders not only had no vision for the future economic potential of the continent, but they also seemed more concerned with amassing wealth for themselves than uplifting the general populace.

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At war with itself As a result of this misguided leadership Africa faced one crisis after another.

Countries like Angola went from liberation from colonial powers to a civil war between the two liberation parties, the MPLA (People’s Movement for the Liberation of Angola) and UNITA (the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola). This war would last for the better part of the next 27 years until the death of Jonas Savimbi in 2002 when a cease-fire was announced. The drawn-out conflict left the country in a state of chaos with more than four million people displaced and infrastructure destroyed.

While Angola was at war, Burundi and neighbouring Rwanda were facing their own crises with the devastating mass

9

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killings of Hutus by the Tutsi-dominated army in 1972. This sparked the 1993 genocide of Tutsis by the Hutus, which in turn then led to retaliation by the Hutus in 1994.

How did an entire continent come from being hopeless to one of the largest emerging economies in the world Corruption rules War and conflict were not the only issues Africa had. Corruption and mismanagement saw many African economies struggling to grow. Those economies that stagnated were the lucky ones, as many were just failing dismally.

Despite the continent being rich in minerals, oils and fertile land this failed to reap benefits for the people on the ground.

Developing African nations were poor, with no domestic savings, and no capital to inject into their economies. Years of war and strife left vital infrastructure, a necessity for new businesses to flourish, in terrible disrepair.

Democracy was an ideal that was not held in high regard on the continent.

Human rights were violated and African leaders ruled over their subjects with iron fists. All this and more led to the international community marginalising the continent of Africa from political and economic affairs. The perception was there was not much the beleaguered continent could offer in terms of political and economic input.

Regardless, the world powers exploited the Africa’s resources to fuel their own agendas. Even international governing bodies such as the United Nations seemed to practice the policy of selective engagement, as they were less involved with African matters as they were with Euro-Western affairs.

On the global scene, while the rest of the world convened at G7 summits and economic forums to better their own economies, Africa was still labelled the slave continent, or simply associated with poverty and therefore excluded from global trade opportunities.

11

Living off foreign aid During the post-colonial era most African nations still depended on their former colonisers for economic survival in areas such as trade, manufacturing and more importantly, employment.

As a result aid was dished out to Africa with crippling effects. In her Wall Street Journal article Why Foreign Aid is Hurting Africa, journalist Dambisa Moyo notes: “the insidious aid culture has left African countries more debt-laden, more inflation-prone, more vulnerable to the vagaries of the currency markets and more unattractive to higher- quality investment.”

Africa was being stripped bare while she dropped further into debt and survived on hand-outs from the West.

Among others, the late Margaret Thatcher, former prime minister of England, had no hope for an Africa led by Africans and labelled liberation groups against Apartheid in South Africa as terrorists. Many other leaders who had no time for African affairs echoed her sentiments and, when they looked at the goings-on on the continent, felt justified in their opinion.

Africa owed the largest debts to organisations such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) but was excluded from being global economic decision- making processes.

To illustrate the extent to which Africa was the poor cousin to the other powers is a feature by The Economist magazine published a decade age, which labelled Africa as ‘the hopeless continent’, pointing towards the regions dark future and lack of progression.

The tide turns Cut to the year 2011 and a recent publication of The Economist was branded with a cover titled ‘Africa Rising’ praising the continent on its flourishing economies. Other articles by various magazines have been published under similar titles such as ‘Welcoming African lions and bidding farewell to Asian tigers’ and ‘Investors jumping onto the Africa bandwagon. What has changed in the last decade that has dramatically altered the perceptions and relations of our international peers? How did an entire continent go from being hopeless to one of the largest emerging economies in the world?

It is no secret that Africa confronts many challenges and that its people

are victim to stereotypes and misrepresentation. However it is important to note that the region is getting back on the saddle and regaining the reigns. According to the IMF at least eight of the top countries expected to show the highest growth rate in the world are from the sub-Saharan region.

This includes Angola, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Rwanda and Sierra Leone. Not so long ago most of these countries were victim to international critique. Sierra Leone was sanctioned for its blood diamonds. Ethiopia was viewed as a country burdened with endless poverty. Angola was a war-torn nation.

The post-war reconstruction boom and resettlement of displaced persons in Angola has led to high rates of growth in the construction industry. Higher oil prices have helped Angola turn a budget deficit of 8.6% of GDP in 2009 into a surplus of 12% of GDP in 2012. Ethiopia is now one of the largest livestock producers in the world and became the second country after Japan to take delivery of the Boeing 787 passenger jet. Under President Paul Kagame, Rwanda has seen political stability and investment in infrastructure and this has started to yield results. On his return trip, Charles Robertson, chief economist for Africa at Renaissance Capital in London called the country “an African inspiration”. He went on: “The government wants Rwanda to become “a Singapore of Africa and it is succeeding”.

Consequently, this move from being the hopeless continent to an economic phenomenon has seen a resurgent and revived interest in the activities of Africa.

There has been an evident power shift that has been amplified by the involvement of economic powerhouses such as the Republic of China. China has taken an interest in the African economy and has been investing in the operations and infrastructure, increasing investor confidence and fuelling the growth of national economies.

According to research by US AidData, China has committed US$ 75 billion to aid and projects in Africa in the past decade. The Asian dragons have become Africa’s biggest trading partner in the last few years. Growing trade with South Africa allowed for the country to be recruited into the BRICS coalition.

Africa is also helping herself. Dr Monty Marshall’s paper Conflict Trends in Africa, 1964 – 2004 shows that the number of civil wars being waged on the continent has fallen by about half since 1993. This peace and stability has resulted in the Africa becoming less

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MAIN

FEATURE

African nations have been taking their own strides to improve the situation of their states

Not surprisingly, the economic power shift has resulted in renewed interest from Europe. According to consul general Graça Gonçalves Pereira there has been a 30% to 40% increase in the number of Portuguese migrants choosing to move to Mozambique over the past two years.

African nationals that had migrated to first world countries are also opting to reclaim the opportunities that their countries have to offer in what has been dubbed the “Brain Gain”. Keenly aware of the potential that Africa is now showing they are coming back home armed with a wealth of knowledge and experience, which they are using to resurrect their flagging economies.

There is fresh hope for Africa.

As all this is happening it is crucial for Africa and its citizens to keep their eye on the ball. What the world has learnt from situations such as the American

economic depression or the European crises is that the success of economies is not constant and that change is dynamic.

Upcoming African leaders will need to be more transparent in their dealings.

Corruption has no place in a strong and thriving economy. With so much to offer now Africa is at risk of being taken advantage of by international powers, which could lead to the Second Scramble for Africa. Over and above building their economies, Africans will have to fiercely protect their resources, economies and their wealth.

The success of the growth of Africa is still, in some cases, a statistical and theoretical projection on paper and it lies with Africans to ensure that it becomes reality by investing muchneeded time and effort now in order to enjoy the benefits later.

Africa stands on the threshold of much success and all her citizens owe it to themselves to make it happen. For themselves, their children and their dignity.

image courtesy of shutterstock

dependent on Europe for economic relations and increasingly self-sufficient.

For instance, Zimbabwe has implemented an indigenisation policy where an indigenous national must own at least 51% of a company in any local business sector. In South Africa, Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) ensures that citizens are given priority in business ventures before international partners.

Return to the motherland

12

www.afropolitan.co.za

FEATURE

BY ELKA SCHAIMBERG

Wildlife in Crisis The safari is the backbone of South African tourism, yet numbers of game are dwindling dramatically in the face of poaching and other threats

I

n South Africa alone there are 22 national game parks and over 1000 private reserves that attract scores of wide-eyed, camerahappy travellers who come here for that once-in-a-lifetime safari experience.

To ride in an open safari vehicle, be surrounded by a pride of lions, spot a baby rhino in the protective shadow of her mother and hear the howl of wild dog makes the African dream a thrilling reality.

Sadly, Africa has lost a significant portion of its wildlife and it seems to 14

be depleting on a daily basis. According to census estimates in Africa, lions are down to 20-30 000 from a population of around 500 000, white rhino numbers are about 20 000, black rhino is down to a measly few thousand, oribis (a small antelope) are at around 2000 and wild dog numbers have dropped to a shocking 450. Their plight has

Rhino poaching has reached crisis levels in South Africa, driven by illegal demand in the East.

Black-market prices have risen so high that rhino horn has literally become more valuable than gold.

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ultimately have a drastic impact on the country’s economy and reduce our popularity as a tourist destination, leading to less corporate investment and fewer jobs.

And, we haven’t even got to the business of trophy hunting. For hunters, the rarer an animal is, the more valuable its trophy becomes, and the more you have to pay to obtain a license to kill one.

The irony of which, is that funds accrued from trophy hunting are miniscule in comparison to the value of these animals as tourist drawing cards. The illegal trade in dead animal parts is also a big business and rakes in an estimated annual profit of roughly $7.8-$10 billion – which is fifth in value behind illegal traffic in drugs, humans, oil and counterfeit.

By and large, poachers are not criminals, but opportunists who are desperately poor; they see the enormous amount of money that can be obtained for horns and ivory on the black market, and they will risk anything to get it. It’s lucrative enough to make poaching and smuggling a dangerous but worthwhile occupation.

The sad truth is that the local man living in his rural hut in the bush

By and large, poachers are not criminals, but opportunists who are desperately poor; they see the enormous amount of money that can be obtained for horns and ivory on the black market, and they will risk anything to get it. It’s lucrative enough to make poaching and smuggling a dangerous but worthwhile occupation. rarely gets to see the benefits of tourism initiatives. That is, of course, unless he is involved in tourism in some way.

A massive drive towards eco-tourism is underway where the business of tourism plays a vital role in sustainable community development. A series of ecotourism lodges run by local people now 15

imageS courtesy of SHUTTERSTOCK

become so desperate that a number of NGOs are involved in dedicated wild dog conservation and breeding projects. These and many other animals of the wild are being threatened by a combination of factors which include, habitat destruction and degradation, disease and even lack of food but most significantly, illegal hunting, illegal wildlife trade, poisoning and poaching.

Rhino poaching, in particular, has reached crisis levels in South Africa, driven by illegal demand in the East.

Black market prices have risen so high that rhino horn has literally become more valuable than gold. According to official figures from the Department of Environmental Affairs, a total of 1 946 rhinos have been poached to date, and this year alone, 292 rhinos have been killed within our South African borders. In central Africa the problem lies with elephants where the poaching is moving rapidly southwards, with reports of poaching already in isolated areas of Mozambique. To make matters worse, rhino horn is no longer simply an alleged cure for everything from hangovers to cancer (which is a myth as it has no medicinal properties whatsoever), but owning a piece of our precious rhino has become a status symbol for the Asian elite – having a pair of ivory earrings is like owning a designer handbag.

But with the rapid escalation in poaching, so too comes the need for top-notch anti-poaching units in every reserve, the costs of which can run into hundreds of thousands of Rand each month. These highly skilled wildlife protection specialists, their equipment and their vehicles must be paid for and many private reserves are finding it increasingly more difficult to safeguard their rhinos. As a consequence many of them do not want to run the risk of increasing their rhino populations.

Some are even escorting them out of their natural habitat and actively seeking alternative conservation areas for them.

A private reserve ranger (who wished to remain anonymous), expressed great concern at the current state of affairs.

He has been in the business for over 20 years and knows firsthand that game reserves with rhino attract more visitors than those without. “We still radio one another to share the location of any exciting finds. However, we’ve stopped doing this now when we find rhino because the probability of poachers hacking into our radio systems and listening in is a reality, and they could use the information to track and kill the animals. For us rangers, our silence is our protection.”

Left unchecked, poaching will

FEATURE

Committed eco-tourism initiatives are being used to persuade local communities that in safekeeping their wildlife, it benefits them.

16

offers a promising future in communityled conservation. Through their work, local communities are quickly realising that when an elephant or rhino is killed, they are losing an asset. So, in effect, a budding neighbourhood-watch scheme is developing. Committed eco-tourism initiatives are being used to persuade local communities that in safe-keeping their wildlife, it benefits them.

It is the responsibility too, of private reserve owners to donate a portion of their annual tourism income to antipoaching and wildlife conservation funds.

The rapid depletion of our wildlife is a harsh reality that needs to be tackled head on. The problem is now a fundamental global issue and the fight simply cannot be won by our local village communities, conservationists and wildlife enthusiasts alone. This war needs the back-up forces of international conservationists and senior politicians.

The battle won will not only uplift SA tourism, but more importantly, allow the precious gifts of Mother Nature to be enjoyed by our children. www.afropolitan.co.za

Images courtesy of Shutterstock

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tsotsi

in

the

b oar d room

Khaya Dlanga

20

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Time is what you make it.

Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18.

Q&A

Named as one of the most influential young people in the country, The Afropolitan spent some time getting to know the man behind the twitter handle @KhayaDlanga Can you share some of your background?

I grew up near Mount Ayliff in the village Dutyini. Ndingum Xesibe (I am Xesibe). I had a really great childhood.

Swimming naked in rivers, riding horses and the occasional fights I got into as a boy. My mother sent me to school at a very early age, which was extremely uncommon in that village. I was always the youngest by a good few years. It is for this reason that I think people in the village used to ask me to read their letters for them from their husbands who worked in the mines in Johannesburg. I think they figured I was too young to tell other people what was in their letters. I remember being in Standard 1 (Grade 3) with an 18-year-old cousin who went to school only a few times a year; I don’t know if he went when he was bored or what. We were considered rich by other children from the village because they found it strange that even kids could use spoons to eat.

In most homes, children used their bare hands or make-shift wooden spoons.

correction on my life. Had I stayed in Dutyini, I probably would have wound up being a wayward unruly frustrated young man. When I was eight I was already in Standard 3 (Grade 5) and by this time I was bunking school and smoking weed, which grew freely in the village. The last time I smoked weed I was nine. Are you sure my mother won’t see this? (Ed's note: We can't promise)

Your background is an interesting mix of colossal challenges and thrilling victories, which ones stand out for you?

The most challenging moment was probably the time I was homeless for a few months in Cape Town. I slept in a flat that was being renovated and had to wake up early every morning before the workers arrived. But one day they arrived early and I ran out the back door never to return. I ended up sleeping on the desks of the college I went to, AAA School of Advertising. I used to live on a roll of bread a day, and if I felt like splashing out, I’d add slap chips. Pastor Who had the biggest influence Allister Buchanan from my church in building your character? dropped me off one Friday evening at The Internet raised me. I kid. I kid! college after youth group. I told him it’s I grew up on encyclopaedias – that because I had deadlines. He said, “Tell was my internet. I can’t say it was just me the truth.” I broke down and told one person; there have been so many him I was sleeping on desks at college, people who have had an influence. and that I used the sink to wash up My grandfather’s discipline and my before the other students arrived. He grandmother’s insistence on respect called a newlywed couple and made me and being an upstanding member of society. The strong Christian beliefs they sleep in their flat for a few days until he found me a place at the YMCA for a also shared had an impact on my life. month. I got a job as a waiter and saved The decision by my mother to send me up some money to find a place of my to what was then the best school in the Transkei probably had the biggest course own and pay my own rent.

From being homeless to becoming one of the most influential young people in South Africa, you have defied the odds – how did this happen?

I remember one day being at the till at the restaurant where I worked as a waiter in Cape Town and I said to myself: “This can’t be the rest of my life”.

A part of me knew that there was more meant for me. There was a Bible verse I used to recite every day: “Consider it pure joy my brothers whenever you face trials of many kinds, because the testing of your faith develops perseverance.

Perseverance must finish its work so that

The decision by my mother to send me to what was then the best school in the Transkei probably had the biggest course correction on my lifE you may be mature. If any of you lacks anything, he should ask God who gives freely to all and without finding fault.”

This is what kept me going. And I’m not really sure if I am influential. I think a lot of things happened for me because I am also curious. When I am curious about a thing I often want to be involved in it. We limit ourselves far too much.

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21

Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18.

imageS courtesy of KHAYA DLANGA

BY BRENDAH NYAKUDYA

KHAYA DLANGA

tsotsi

in

the

b oar d room

Dutyini, Mount Ayliff, Eastern Cape

How did you get into the advertising game?

I didn’t finish at AAA and was not qualified, so I wrote an email to what was then the most awarded small agency in Cape Town. I wrote an unconventional CV because I figured, if I am not qualified, I should give them something that will catch their attention immediately. I figured all I want is just an interview, maybe if I get one, they will hire me. I wrote: "I live in Pinelands, not Gugulethu I can use phones, faxes and computers without breaking them I am not a member of COSATU Some of my best friends are white Position applying for: Copywriter Experience in this field: I used to write slogans like “Free Mandela” and “One man, one vote” on township walls, this was a very successful campaign as you might have noticed."

22

There are many young South Africans in corporate who have the skills and intellectual acumen to take this country places.

When I got the phone call for the interview, the lady on other end of the line was still laughing.

people. I don’t know if that was that I was a junior and that was just how juniors were treated. But I left, and went to an agency which treated me as a veteran. I’ve won many awards with that particular agency.

In your opinion, has the industry made genuine changes since then?

I still see a lot of the old faces; I don’t see much new, young black talent. There are a few agencies that have black ECDs, MDs and CEOs, so things are changing.

At first, people would just buy stakes in the agencies and you’d find no black people in management at all.

What challenges did you face in the industry as a young, ambitious black man starting out?

Besides posing a question for President Barack Obama and interviewing President Paul Kagame – what are the other highlights in your life?

I felt that I wasn’t getting any attention from my superiors. I felt that I was just there to fill in the number of black

I think the publishing of my book (In My Arrogant Opinion, Kalahari.com, R72) was a nice one, winning a Cannes Gold,

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It’s your time. and winning a Black Eagle at the Eagle Print Awards.

passing second, they advise, with rhythmic and hypnotic regularity – ‘Get rich! Get rich! Get rich!’” This is the problem.

What does your current position as Senior Communications Manager of Content Excellence If you were to say one thing to the leaders of the country at Coca-Cola entail?

I work on the communications strategies what would it be? with the agencies who work on our various brands. I do this for all the brands at the company. I oversee all the creative content: TV, radio, print, etc.

You serve not to serve yourself.

If you know you are not up to the job, give it up for someone who can do it better.

You wrote that its time the ANC leaders hand over reins to the youth. Do you think the current generation of young South Africans are ready to lead?

Given the chance, yes. There are many young South Africans in corporate who have the skills and intellectual acumen to take this country places. There are a few even within the ANC itself. The ANC needs to dedicate itself to maturing and educating these young ones now.

The institutional knowledge needs to be passed down.

Do the best you can for the people.

You serve not to serve yourself. If you know you are not up to the job, give it up for someone who can do it better.

Do you feel the older generation has done enough when it comes to guiding the youth?

No. We still have to navigate the valleys for ourselves. Very few get the chance to be mentored.

There seems to be a great divide between the older generation of leaders and the youth; what has caused this rift?

I think that the older generation still have the exile, prison and liberation mentality. They have moved very slowly to catch up with the times. They are leading in a way that’s not in step with the times. We are more open and honest; they are more secretive and demand that people tow the party line.

Dissent is often seen as disobedience.

You were recently part of a literary series of books entitled The Youngsters that were designed to encourage young people to read; was this objective realised?

When you look at rituals such as To a certain extent it was, but I don’t skhotane, what can you say has think as much as they had hoped. I gone wrong with our youth? had a lot of people tell me that my I think that this is the case with most recently liberated countries. They find new ways to define themselves after their great victories, which had meaning. Then once the fight has been fought, they don’t know what to do but make money. To quote Thabo Mbeki in his Nelson Mandela lecture, “Thus, everyday, and during every hour of our time beyond sleep, the demons embedded in our society, that stalk us at every minute, seem always to beckon each one of us towards a realisable dream and nightmare. With every

book was the first one they ever bought.

You have always said you want to do something amazing – have you achieved this?

Ha! No. Not by a long shot. I may die never having done it, but at least I would have tried. For me something amazing means making a meaningful contribution to society.

Time is what you make it.

What keeps you up at night?

Usually the neighbours having sex.

Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18.

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F A S H I O N

Wood & Silver necklace with matching Earrings & Ring

Uwe Koetter Jewellers

South Africa’s most awarded jeweller 24

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W

For assistance contact Gareth Pienaar on +27 21 425 7770, reach us via email or visit the press room of Uwe Koetter Jewellers at www.uwekoetter.co.za. www.afropolitan.co.za

Images courtesy of LUXURY BRANDS

ith an international reputation built on a heritage of industryleading design and superb craftsmenship, Uwe Koetter Jewellers has served some of the most recognised and accomplishedcelebrities, royalty and heads of state, from Nelson Mandela to Kate Moss. Uwe Koetter’s unrivalled reputation and attention to detail have even extended as far as commissioning unique items for HM Queen Elizabeth II. In the new state of the art showroom that comprises the finest local and international jewellery designs, expert goldsmiths, including renowned awardwinning designer Johan Louw, create bespoke and meticulously fashioned jewellery of superlative quality and unrivalled artistry.

14 Carat Gold And Rithium Plated Necklace And Earring Set Containing Emeralds And Black And White Diamonds

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F A S H I O N Sugalite & Silver Necklace & Earring set

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Images courtesy of LUXURY BRANDS

Sunburst pendant and earring set in oxidised silver with white topaz

F A S H I O N

Images courtesy of LUXURY BRANDS

18 Carat White Gold with 10 Carat Trilliant Cut Tanzanite With Small White Diamonds

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T R I B U T E

Farewell to Africa’s

greatest storyteller

Chinua Achebe

“

You cannot plant greatness as you plant yams or maize.

Whoever planted an iroko tree – the greatest tree in the forest?

You may collect all the iroko seeds in the world, open the soil and put them there. It will be in vain. The great tree chooses where to grow and we find it there, so it is with the greatness in

men.” – No Longer At Ease by Chinua Achebe.

Chinua Achebe, born in 1930, was referred to as the “founding father of African literature” and quite rightly so. His first book, Things Fall Apart, published in 1958, was one of the first internationally published books by an African author. First attempts to get

the book published were laughed off and publishers said no one would be interested in a book by an African about Africa. His conviction that this book was relevant paid off and to date over ten million copies of Things Fall Apart have been sold and it has been translated into more than fifty languages. In his later years, Achebe revealed that had Things

Timeline - The storyteller’s story • 1930 - Born 16 November • 1958 - Published Things Fall Apart • 1960 - Published No Longer At Ease

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• 1961 - Got Married • 1961 to 1966 - Taught at the University of Ibadan • 1964 - Published Arrow of God

• 1966 - Published A Man of The People • 1967 - Co-Founded Citadel Press • Late 1960s - Lectured across the USA

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imageS courtesy of Google Images

BY Tendai Maidza

Tendai Maidza pays tribute to Chinua Achebe, the man in “whose company the prison walls fell down” - Nelson Mandela

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communications

Fall Apart not been published, he would have given up altogether – which would have been a great loss to the literary world. Fortunately, in its first printing the book was well received by the British Press and went on to become one of the most important books in African literature.

For many generations of African readers, Achebe’s novels have been a welcome realisation that the Eurocentric lens through which we were taught to view the world was not the only legitimate viewpoint. His writing awakened many to the idea that not only were African stories worth telling and being heard, but that they were interesting and relevant. His oftenquoted view was that “until the lions have their own historians, the history of the hunt will always glorify the hunter”.

This spurred his desire to write and tell the story of the lions and lionesses of this great continent.

Like Things Fall Apart, his later novels No Longer at Ease (1960), Arrow of God (1964), A Man of the People (1966) and Anthills of the Savannah (1987) focused on the themes of colonialisation and its effects on traditional society, the conflict between traditional and modern values, political corruption and post- colonial Africa.

Achebe’s 1975 lecture “An Image of Africa: Racism in Conrad’s The Heart of Darkness”, in which he called Conrad “a thoroughgoing racist”, caused much controversy and marked him out as a man who did not bend his views for popularity or commercial success.

Although his lecture was painted as being a political statement rather than

Award. I accepted all these honours fully aware that Nigeria was not perfect; but I had a strong belief that we would outgrow our shortcomings under leaders committed to uniting our diverse peoples. Nigeria’s condition today under your watch is, however, too dangerous for silence. I must register my disappointment and protest by declining to accept the high honour awarded me in the 2004 Honours List.”

Along with honours and awards in Nigeria, Chinua Achebe was also the recipient of the Man Booker International Prize in 2007 and the Dorothy and Lillian Gish Prize in 2010.

He was also awarded honorary degrees by more than 30 universities around the world.

In his final book There Was a Country: A Personal History of Biafra, published in 2012, he chronicles the secession attempt by a region of southeastern Nigeria. The attempt ended in a brutal

war and millions of civilians died in fighting and of starvation. The Republic of Biafra existed from 1967 to 1970 and Chinua Achebe was a committed supporter of the failed independence attempt and ambassador of the Biafran state. In the book, he says: “We, the intellectuals, were deeply disillusioned by the ineptitude of Nigeria’s ruling elite and by what we saw taking place in our young nation. As far as their relationship with the masses was concerned, Nigerian politicians, we felt, had slowly transformed themselves into the personification of the wasp--a notorious predator from the insect kingdom.

Wasps, African children learn during storytime, greet unsuspecting prey with a painful, paralysing sting; then lay eggs on their body, which then proceed to eat the victim alive.” The attempt at secession was an attempt to establish a nation which lived up to the high ideals and great potential independent Nigeria had. The book, like the man, stirred up much controversy in Nigeria regarding who was responsible for the deaths of thousands of children due to starvation.

In 1990, Achebe was in a car accident which left him paralysed from the waist down and confined to a wheelchair for the rest of his life. This accident precipitated his move to America where he lived until his death this year. Chinua Achebe, the man in “whose company the prison walls fell down” (Nelson Mandela) not only put African literature on the international stage, but he freed Africans to realise the importance of their own stories.

Farewell to a fearless African, an unrivalled story teller and one in whom greatness chose to abide.

His writing awakened many to the idea that not only were African stories worth telling and being heard, but that they were interesting and relevant stories.

Timeline - The storyteller’s story • 1973 to 1975 - Published various short stories and children’s books • 1975 - Gave the lecture, An Image of Africa: Racism in Conrad’s Heart of Darkness at the University

www.afropolitan.co.za

of Massachusetts • 1976 to 1981 - English Professor at the University of Nigeria • 1987 - Published Anthills of the Savannah • 1988 - Published Hopes and Impediments

• • • •

1990 - Car accident leaves him a paraplegic 1994 to 2009 - Taught at Bard College (US) 2009 - Taught at Brown University (US) 2013 - Died 21 March

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imageS courtesy of Google Images

We, the intellectuals, were deeply disillusioned by the ineptitude of Nigeria’s ruling elite and by what we saw taking place in our young nation.

a literary criticism, it has been included in critical editions and taught alongside Conrad’s work.

Though his pride in his Igbo heritage was always evident in his writing, Achebe was also an outspoken critic of his home country Nigeria. In 1983 he published a pamphlet entitled “The Trouble with Nigeria” criticising the pervasive corruption which was rampant in the Nigerian government.

In the pamphlet he states that “Nigeria has been less than fortunate in its leadership”. His frustration with successive Nigerian governments was apparent and in both 2004 and 2011 he rejected Nigerian National Honours.

In 2004 he stated: “Forty-three years ago, at the first anniversary of Nigeria’s Independence I was given the first Nigerian National Trophy for Literature.

In 1979, I received two further honours, and in 1999 the first National Creativity

BY Stacey Vee @ Copy Candy

L ifestyle

Fashion forward As South Africa’s design and textile industry struggles to make ends meet, it is reinventing how it does business 34

B

ackstage at SA Fashion Week the air is thick with the smell of hairspray, cigarettes and steam as near-invisible creases are coaxed out of designer creations.

Black Coffee, Gert Johan Coetzee, Loxion Kulca, Lunar and Stoned Cherrie – these are the collections that the audience lining the catwalk are anxiously awaiting to see. Fashonistas, editors and bloggers: a slick gathering of the industry’s elite.

But underneath this glossy affair, so much more is at stake than a designer’s reputation. The movers and shakers at SA Fashion Week are only the tip of a pyramid that is made up of thousands of seamstresses and factory workers in a local industry that is under siege.

Is South Africa’s design industry in crises? The numbers say: without a doubt. www.afropolitan.co.za

Band of (creative) brothers

The movers and shakers at SA Fashion Week are only the tip of a pyramid that is made up of thousands of seamstresses and factory workers.

An industry coming apart at the seams Between January 2003 and June 2006, the local clothing, textile and footwear industries shed almost 65 000 jobs,

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As they struggle to cope with a different kind of market, South Africa’s designers are being forced to do something that they’re actually very good at: reinventing themselves. Or to be more precise, reinventing the way they do business.

These days many fashion shows attract large sponsorships from industries hoping to associate their brands with style and luxury, such as the BMW and Audi.

At a grassroots level, there is a coming-together and networking through initiatives like SA Creatives (sacreativenetwork.co.za), a community of talents that brings together a wide range of skills – anything from graffiti artists to typography to advertising as an art form.

Design delivered to your door Another avenue that is helping South Africa’s design talent promote its creations is the Internet. The surge in ‘arts and crafts’ as a secondary source of income as the result of the global recession has seen a boom in websites dedicated to showcasing and selling the work of these artists. Locally, one such site is HelloPretty.co.za.

“Throughout our travels, we realised that there’s one thing that’s universally appreciated: Great design,” say the site creators Sam, Scott and Adeline. We’re constantly amazed and inspired by the incredible things being created right here in South Africa, and we felt there needed to be some way for people to

connect with it on a larger scale than their local market.”

Hello Pretty sets itself above the rest through the careful curatorship of the artists allowed to have a store on the platform. Everything sold on Hello Pretty is indie, unusual and beautifully crafted, and you can find anything from tote bags that have been illustrated by hand to oversized bowties.

Another such site is Africandy.com, which features more established South African designers, with a focus on lifestyle and home items like scatter cushions and accessories by our local fabric queen Skinny laMinx, the brandchild of illustrator Heather Moore.

One thing is certain: as global markets continue to totter, the South African fashion-lover is becoming more patriotic in her tastes, putting her money where her Tsonga ballet pumps are.

The surge in ‘arts and crafts’ as a secondary source of income, as the result of the global recession, has seen a boom in online showcases.

Buy local It not the first of its kind, but this latest ‘buy local’ campaign is fresh and inspiring.

Launched in February at the annual Design Indaba held in Cape Town, Love ZA Buy ZA was created by the sisters behind the GOOD Clothing and Mungo & Jemima brands.

“It’s about highlighting the amazing talent in the South African clothing industry. It’s about getting the public excited about SA clothing design and manufacturing and reminding them how proud they should feel to wear it! And it’s about keeping jobs here, and not shipping them overseas,” say Marian and Louise Park-Ross.

The sisters worked with the aptly named Shoestring Productions to produce a short, compelling video telling the story of a single dress – from its beginning in the designer’s sketchbook, to the moment it’s draped over a mannequin in the store window. Called ‘The Good Dress’, the beautifully shot video was even showcased by the online curator of all things cool, TrendHunter.com. (You can also view it on Afropolitan’s website.)

The campaign is not just intended to promote locally made clothing, but all spheres of South African design: furniture, interiors, art and even food. Look out for the LoveZaBuyZa stickers in shop windows and clothing labels.

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imageS courtesy of SHUTTERSTOCK

according to figures released by Statistics SA. This was largely blamed on the increase in cheap imports from the Chinese market, and the three-year period saw hundreds of South Africa clothing and textile factories closing and workers being retrenched. Hot on the cheap, knock-off heels of these job losses strutted the global recession.

The founders of the Love ZA Buy ZA campaign claim that at least another 80 000 jobs have been lost in the South African clothing and textile industry over the past six years. Fresh figures from Statistics SA, however, suggest that the situation has begun to stabilise since 2011. This is hopeful news for our designer talents and home-grown brands, meaning that the South African consumer is stepping out dressed in local fashion and by doing this, creating jobs in an industry that has been neardevastated over the last decade.

BY DOMINIQUE WOLF

B E A U T Y & G R O O M I N G STRAWBERRY S.O.S

ORANGE PEEL

Strawberries contain natural antioxidants, which are known to repair skin and act as anti-aging agents, as well as protect your skin from environmental stress. The salicylic acid in strawberries removes dead skin cells, unveiling the smooth, radiant skin below.

Make a smooth paste from mashed strawberries, a tablespoon of fresh milk and a tablespoon of Maizena (corn starch) and spread all over your face like a mask. Leave it on for 20 minutes, rinse with warm water and pat dry.

This not only smells delicious but also leaves your skin feeling really pampered. This can be done as often as twice a week.

AMAZING AVO

Oranges are also a great source of AHAs and vitamin C, which are both clinically proven to prevent wrinkles and fine lines. Can you believe that one egg yolk, a teaspoon of honey, fresh orange juice and a small packet of gelatine would create the most luxurious skin peel? The egg yolk and honey moisturise and firm tired skin while the citrus juice exfoliates dead skin cells away, stimulating new cell production. Winter is citrus season, so stock up!

Avocado has a plethora of anti-aging attributes, including vitamins A, D and E, as well as proteins, lecithin, potassium and betacarotene, a cancer-fighting ingredient. Avocados also are high in emollient qualities which work to heal sundamaged skin, scarring and reduce age spots. A full body mask is easily made by mixing two avos, a bit of salt, honey, lemon juice and coconut oil. When this mixture is applied and left on for 10-15 minutes, dry winter skin is nourished and enriched with the avocado’s essential oils.

Fruity, beautiful skin Go green in your beauty routine with the fresh, raw ingredients that are in your kitchen right now!

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www.afropolitan.co.za

By Kagiso Wave Jabosigo The Philips Norelco Aquatec Wet & Dry electric razor (also called the CareTouch) promises to glide over your skin and is tough on ingrown hairs, which have always been an issue for me. When I started using the Philips CareTouch I hadn’t shaved for three weeks so it had quite a bit of work to do. The first shave didn’t manage to clear the three-week hair backlog but it did get it all smooth the next day. Day three saw a few ingrown hairs popping up and I tried out the bump control function. The Philips CareTouch took care of the ingrown hairs with finesse. My face is smooth and I couldn’t be happier. The battery life of the machine is awesome and allows for 40 minutes of cordless shaving, which is always a bonus!

The ultimate shaving gel. This high performance foam moulds itself to the contours of the face for the cleanest, closest shave.

Chinese Date, English Oak and Witch Hazel help defend the skin against irritation and razor burn, leaving the skin feeling nourished, softened and refreshed.

RAZOR SHARP Razor MD iGrip Black Razor set This is the best shaving combo a man can have. It’s a hand-made black handle razor with a laser engraved grip. This razor ensures the most smooth & comfortable shave experience using the latest advances in technology.

It comes with a matching chrome badger-hair shave brush and a very modern looking shave stand. It’s compatible and comes with one Gillette Fusion blade and is also compatible with the NEW Gillette Fusion ProGlide blade.

Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo Enhance your hair’s vitality and lustre with this energising and refreshing Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo. This invigorating shampoo features a special combination of cleansers and Australian tea tree oil to leave hair refreshingly clean.Formulated with Australian tea tree oil, Hawaiian awapuhi, chamomile, henna, rosemary, aloe vera and jojoba, Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo stimulates the scalp with a cool tingling sensation. This invigorating blend cleanses your hair and scalp of impurities for a fresh, clean feeling.

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Men U Facial moisturiser lift After shave balm and moisturiser combined completes the professional shave / facial experience by moisturising and helping to close the pores. Shaving removes up to two layers of skin. Exfoliation women can only dream of! So it’s important to use a high quality moisturiser after shaving. Men-U facial moisturiser lift is non-greasy and has mint and menthol to cool and refresh. It’s great for overcoming that just woken up feeling in the morning or when you need a wakeup call for the evening ahead.

A minute after using your skin will feel ‘talcum powder’ soft. It’s not only great for use after shaving but on your face after a bath, shower or wash. There are at least as many good reasons for a man to use a moisturiser as a woman, if not more!

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Prices may vary. Images are courtesy of shutterstock, manufacturers and distributors.

Elemis for Men Ice Cool Foaming Shave Gel

A close shave

P R O F I L E

BY Stacey Vee @ Copy Candy

John Tibane

T

ibane John Maleka, Director new business and Senior Auctioneer of Tirhani Auctioneers. I hold a degree in Public Administration majoring in Economics (Uniwest) and I’m a qualified Auctioneer. I started my career as an administrator and translator for CNN International and Telecommunication of Belgium during the 1994 First South African Democratic Elections. In 1997 I was approached

by Birnam Business College as a lecturer in Business Management and recruited by Government Department Home Affairs as an Immigration Officer.

I was privileged to join Aucor as an apprentice auctioneer and took advantage of an opening which culminated in my being appointed as Director at Tsakane Auctioneers. I participated in all forms of auction services including liquidations. The knowledge and expertise accumulated from Aucor allowed me to excel in the sale of all movable assets my speciality in motor vehicles, earth moving equipment and furniture have proved to be my passion. Results achieved have brought in repeat business from my corporate clients which include financial Institutions,Parastatals liquidators and the like.

My largest disposal was in Northern Cape when I realised +/- R28,million, on yellow metal, construction equipment and trucks. This incidentally the largest auction ever conducted by previously disadvantaged individual, of the assets I disposed of on a regular basis.

My understanding of the auction industry and its diverse dynamics made me into a serious businessman and Auctioneer, by creating relationships with law firms and forensic institutions such as Gobodo Forensic, Sizwe Ntsaluba and Global Maxima.

In 2006 I noticed a niche in the Auction market and started my own Auction business, (Zevoli Auctioneers) My main clients included Municipalities and Parastatals. Zevoli grew quickly and successful in the parastatal projects.

In 2011 I was approached by Mike Nkuna, (chairman) and Paul Winterstein, (CEO), where I was appointed as Director of a new business, Auction inc.

I joined Tirhani Auctioneers in 2013 as Director of new business.

My credo is honesty, transparency and delivery. I can be reached 24\7 on my mobile: 082 7935 733, John Tibane

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TIRHANI GROUP Linbro Business Park 10 Starfield Drive Frankenwald Ext 20 Sandton

Postal Address PO Box 2951 Rivonia 2128

Tel: 0861 847 4264 Fax: 086 554 7417 info@tirhani.co.za www.tirhani.co.za

www.afropolitan.co.za

Be part of A-revolution.

Introducing the sporty new Mercedes-Benz A-Class.

The new A-Class combines revolutionary power and sportiness, changing performance as you know it. With its 4-cylinder engine delivering up to 155kW, it’s the beginning of A-revolution. Join it today at www.mercedes-benz.co.za/aclass

A Daimler Brand

Vehicle specifications may vary for the South African market.

F I N A N C E image courtesy of SHUTTERSTOCK

BY Craig Gradidge

P E R S O N A L

Is the long walk to

financial freedom

shorter than you think?

E

conomic freedom has often been confused with financial freedom, and the terms tend to be used interchangeably. This suggests that people do not understand the difference between the two, or the definition of either one. The two are closely linked because it is difficult to achieve financial freedom in a place where one has no economic freedom, but they remain distinct concepts.

In South Africa we have ‘economic freedom fighters’, the most notorious being one Julius Malema. Economic freedom, and the fight for it, is largely a politico-economic issue with more political than economic nuance. It concerns itself with issues such as trade, employment opportunities, property rights, empowerment, and other related issues.

Financial freedom on the other hand is less of a macro issue and tends to be more personal. It refers to the extent that an individual has reached a position where they have the financial means

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to live the life they have envisioned for themselves. Financial freedom is truly achieved where one’s financial position is also immune to or protected from adverse effects and unforeseen events.

In the South African context it can be argued that we have achieved a certain level of economic freedom. My business partner grew up in a Mafikeng township while I grew up in a Durban township.

We were both able to get quality tertiary education, decent employment and job opportunities. We both reached that place where we felt we needed to start up something and make a difference.

We were able to source the finance and get access to capital to make our business a reality. Many of our clients have walked similar paths, some facing greater obstacles along their way.

This tells us that there is an element of economic freedom in South Africa sufficient to ensure that many are able to achieve financial freedom. We agree that more can be and should be done to achieve greater economic freedom, but

we also believe that more people are in a position to achieve financial freedom than currently are.

How does one achieve financial freedom?

The road to financial freedom is littered with obstacles but is a lot easier to navigate than imagined. It starts with

The two are closely linked because it is difficult to achieve financial freedom in a place where one has no economic freedom. www.afropolitan.co.za

the simple discipline of the humble budget. A Barclays survey recently found that even the super rich budget. This is telling because it means that budgeting was a key part to them becoming rich in the first instance.

A second discipline to nurture is that of living within one’s means. A very real threat to financial freedom is keeping up with the Joneses. So what if your neighbour drives a BMW? Buy a BMW when you can comfortably afford one, not because your neighbour has one.

Many people up their standard of living when their salary increases. A good strategy is to increase one’s standard of living after every three or four salary increases.

A third discipline is one of taking a longer term perspective when planning.

A long term perspective favours education over entertainment. It favours skills development over chasing job titles. A long term perspective favours investing rather than saving. Putting money into the bank makes a banker and bank shareholders rich. Rather buy shares in the bank and wait for the returns to come, because they will with time.

A fourth discipline is to empower one with the knowledge to achieve financial freedom. Read George Clason’s The Richest Man in Babylon (Kalahari. com, R113). It was written in 1926 but remains relevant even to this day. Read the Millionaire Next Door (Takealot. com, R169) for a perspective on what a wealthy person really looks like and how they behave. Read the Effective Investor by Franco Bussetti (Takealot. com, R308) for a better understanding of South African investment markets.

Read Finweek, the Financial Mail and the Business Day regularly enough that you are able to identify opportunities and act on them as a result of what you have read in the three books recommended here.

Finally, engage the services of a qualified financial adviser, and build a long-term relationship with him or her. Be sure that you are not dealing with a salesperson who is just interested in selling you some or other financial product. Ask yourself: has this person conducted analysis before they made a recommendation?

Are they suitably qualified and experienced? How long have they been

in practice or in industry? What is their investment philosophy? Is it written down somewhere? Are they a certified financial planner?

There is still a long way for South Africa to go before it reaches economic freedom. However, if more and more of its citizens are able to achieve financial freedom, the journey to economic freedom may end up being a lot shorter.

Financial freedom in your lifetime is certainly a possibility, but it requires discipline and some guidance if you are to achieve sooner rather than later. Viva, financial freedom, Viva!

Economic freedom, and the fight for it, is largely a politico-economic issue with more political than economic nuance.

Learning to tell our own stories

For many decades we have learnt about Africa from outsiders. Every major event or calamity that occurrs on the continent is told to us by large international news organisations from their point of view. Due to a lack of reputable local news organizations Africans find themselves tuning into the United Kingdom’s BBC, America’s CNN and Sky to be told what was happening on their own doorstep.

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www.afropolitan.co.za

Images are courtesy of SHUTTERSTOCK

BY Simon Allison

B U S I N E S S

It’s not hard to understand why Africa is struggling to tell its own stories. The major factor is money: there’s very little of it in African journalism.

But the best was yet to come. As a freelancer, I covered the celebrations for news wire Agence France Presse and South Africa’s Daily Maverick, filing my stories before I went to bed. The next morning, I picked up one of the local English-language papers to read over a cup of camel-milk tea in a local coffee shop and found, much to my delight, that my stories dominated the front page. The AFP news piece was lead, the Daily Maverick column ran down the side and, at the bottom of the page, was an ‘exclusive’ interview the paper had conducted with a certain foreign correspondent they mis-named ‘Seminal Elson’.

Exciting as this was for me, it felt very strange – wrong even – that local news coverage of one of the most important local events in years should be dominated by someone like me: informed and interested, sure, but someone not steeped in Somali history, the intricacies of local politics or even that familiar with the language.

In essence, Somaliland’s media was allowing a foreigner to write its stories.

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It’s a problem that plagues African media in general. Open the pages of almost any newspaper on the continent and you’ll see articles sourced from a litany of familiar names: Reuters, Agence France Presse, Associated Press, BBC. Even in the big countries with established media markets and a long track-record of domestic journalism – places like Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa – their continental and foreign coverage depends almost exclusively on the major western media houses.

Chinua Achebe used to quote a wonderful Nigerian proverb that says that until the lions learn to write, the story of the hunt will always be told by the hunters. Well, the lions still have a lot of learning to do. It’s not hard to understand why Africa is struggling to tell its own stories. The major factor is money: there’s very little of it in African journalism. Salaries are generally poor.

Overheads, especially for print and broadcast media, are large. There’s little training for journalists, and little financial incentives for the continent’s best and brightest to become journalists (I can testify to this: being an African journalist is not a lucrative vocation).

Another issue is state control of the media – in many countries, journalists are not free to write what they like, making it near impossible for them to tell their own stories accurately and honestly.

On the other hand, wire copy is relatively affordable (and free if published without permission, as is often the case), plentiful and already edited to a high standard, meaning it needs little extra work. Compared to generating our own news, it is the cheap and easy option.

When it comes to domestic stories, this is not such a problem. Foreign coverage of local stories is often picked up in local newspapers, as in my Somaliland experience, but in many countries this will be accompanied by local commentaries and analysis. More importantly, local audiences are usually familiar enough with their own context to know the background to a foreign news report and not always take it at face value. A far more serious issue is when it comes to coverage of the rest of Africa,

and the continent as a whole. There is just one African media organisation with an extensive network of foreign correspondents across the continent, and that is Kenya’s Nation Media Group.

By and large, however, our media is allowing foreign publications and broadcasters to dictate Africa’s image and explain Africa’s problems – even to an African audience.

And this image, created as it usually is by western correspondents commissioned by western editors answering to audiences in London, Paris and New York, is often criticised for being oversimplified, out of context and biased. This is not always justified: there is some excellent foreign media coverage of Africa, of course, but there is also plenty that’s superficial or flawed. And that bit about audience is important: big stories that should and do matter to Africans, such as famine in Niger or the internal politics of the African Union, don’t get the coverage they deserve because western audiences don’t really care. Which is fair enough, really; us African journalists should be telling those stories to our own audiences who do.

By and large, however, our media is allowing foreign publications and broadcasters to dictate Africa’s image and explain Africa’s problems Along with the stories that are missed, there are deeper psychological ramifications to all this, argues Cameron Duodu in the New African (http://www. newafricanmagazine.com/features/ politics/africas-story-cannot-be-told-inshorthand). “If Africans in particular refuse to be wise and allow images – or more accurately, caricatures – of themselves created by others to penetrate their psyches, they will lose their self-

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Images are courtesy of SHUTTERSTOCK

P

erhaps my finest moment as a journalist came while covering the 20th anniversary of Somaliland’s de facto Independence Day in 2011. I was the only foreign journalist in town, and given royal treatment all day long – unfettered access, tickets to the presidential banquet and one of the army’s Land Cruiser ‘technicals’ with my own armed guards to take me around.

confidence and thereby prolong their mental slavery.”

Duodo perhaps overstates the point, but it’s valid nonetheless. The longer Africa allows itself to be defined by imposed stereotypes and generalisations, the longer it is that decisions are

An even more direct solution is to plug the funding gap that plays such a big role in lowering quality. made, laws are passed and investments weighted on information that is less accurate than it could be – with potentially disastrous consequences.

So what can we do to fix the problem?

Nick Kotch, Africa Editor of South Africa’s Business Day newspaper, told Afropolitan that African media needs to start getting the basics right if it

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wants to be taken seriously. “Long-term investment in excellent journalism and the best delivery platforms, allied to strong ethics and independence, will pay the same good dividends in Africa as anywhere else in the world. We must simply believe in ourselves.”

Easier said than done, of course, and Kotch is matter of fact about the chances of African news organisations seriously competing with the established networks, history and budget of the big wire agencies. “It is impossible for any news organisation in the world to match that global quality,” he said.

He’s probably right. In terms of the breadth and depth of their global coverage, the likes of Reuters and AFP are hard to beat – even if they occasionally miss a story or get the wrong slant. But they’re not what needs fixing. The problem is closer to home, and there are a couple of things African publications can think about doing to fix it.

The obvious solution is to set-up a network of foreign correspondents in Africa, but this is expensive – and as

already mentioned, there’s no money in African journalism. But there are plenty of African journalists, and publications could look at setting up content-sharing deals with other African publications and employ an editor to edit the content to make sense for local audiences. That way, you get continental news with a local spin at a fraction of the price.

An even more direct solution is to plug the funding gap that plays such a big role in lowering quality. There are some excellent publications across Africa which could do wonders with slightly inflated budgets, so maybe the donors that are happy to splash the cash on endless conferences and capacity building workshops should consider funding media instead. Even better, African businessmen and women should consider investing in the sector; they probably won’t see much in the way of financial returns, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a worthwhile investment.

Solutions, however, remain far away.

For better or worse, the hunters will be telling the lions’ stories for a long time to come.

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Images are courtesy of SHUTTERSTOCK

B U S I N E S S

P R O F I L E

Pambili Document Solutions

P

ambili Document Solutions (Pty) Ltd was established in October 2000. Originally a black economic empowerment initiative of Xerox, as it flourished, it was decided to take the company to a higher level. This led to Pambili Document Solutions (Pty) Ltd Chief Executive Officer Mike Chonco buying the business from Xerox and it became an authorized Xerox concessionaire. Since inception, Pambili Document Solutions (Pty) Ltd has shown sustainable annual growth. The company is 100% blackowned and enjoys a black-owned rating from Empowerdex. Pambili is a AAA+

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Level One Empowerdex Rated BBBEE Company and Mike Chonco owns 100% of the shares in the company.

It features in Impumelelo, a publication featuring South Africa’s top empowerment companies. Pambili Document Solutions (Pty) Ltd provides all Xerox products and services and concentrates on those markets where it’s influence and experience are maximized. The company has an impressive list of clients including Eskom, National Union of Mineworkers, Education’s Labour Relations Council and several local councils. Pambili Document Solutions (Pty) Ltd has been appointed as a preferred supplier to the City of Johannesburg through its tender process and has recently been awarded a portion of the local government / GSSC tender. Pursuing a good working relationship with clients has been one of its key strengths.

It matches clients’ needs to the technological solutions that exist. In this regard, the relationship the company has with Xerox is critical. Xerox is recognized as the world’s leading office automationcompany, providing Pambili Document Solutions (Pty) Ltd with an edge over its competitors.

“PAMBILI IS 100% BLACK OWNED”

VISION Pambili Document Solutions is intent on growing its capabilities in the provision of document management solutions in the broadest sense.

BUSINESS FOCUS Expanding the supply of digital networked equipment, the expansion of its MPS and Outsourcing business, and the provision of total solutions that enable customers to manage the digital document.

BUSINESS APPROACH Documents are the DNA of knowledge – the indispensable building block for capturing knowledge and sharing it with others. This is where we fit in, by providing document solutions that bring together our leading-edge technology, the widest array of digital hardware in the industry, sophisticated software, service, teams of industry-focused sales representatives and consultants, and a growing network of direct sales channels.

TARGET MARKET • Government Departments • Transnet Group and Subsidiaries • ESKOM • All local Metropolitan Councils • Unions • Tender Business • Outsourcing Business (Documents) • Telkom • All BBBEE JV’S with Bytes Document Solutions Contact Details: 011 787 8566 www.pambili.co.za

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BY ELi Nyakudya

F E A T U R E

To The Ones That Follow 48

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A

s a continent that is still developing, too often Africa finds herself struggling with a serious lack of leadership in all tiers of business.

In colonial times many large, overseasbased corporations, when setting up shop in African countries, also sent along well-equipped personnel. This human capital not only brought with them innovation but vast amounts of experience, in the hopes of guaranteeing their employers’ success on the ‘dark continent’. Before long industries such as banking, mining and technology boomed, driving local economies forward.

Economic studies prove that mentorship programmes increase motivation in the spheres of any business.

When colonisation ended and many countries found their freedom, old regimes were thrown out and new ones came into play. Many African-based industry leaders returned to their home countries or, over time, retired.

As new governments were ushered in, new business leaders emerged.

Some of these were fortunate enough to have learned from the old guard, while others were self-taught. Regardless, what followed was a crippling lack of mentorship.

It’s fair to state that in developing nations, a lack of mentorship will result in stunted growth in Africa industries.

The absence of guidance from the older generation leaves inexperienced entrepreneurs to make poor decisions, which in turn leads to bad investments and sometime even criminal activities.

Businessmen such as Kenny Kunene, whose book The Hustler’s Bible (written by his partner Gayton McKenzie) teaches how to swindle your way to the top, lead a poor example.

In another example of lack of mentorship, young and inexperienced third-world businessmen try to apply the economic policies of first-world countries to their local industries, because they appear to be a winning recipe. Ultimately these fail because the economies of first and third world countries do not operate on the same principles.

When considering the rise of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Africa, it is evident that the continent has a spirit of entrepreneurship. But mentorship could be the key that takes many of these SMEs to the next level.

Roots in society Historically, African fathers taught young boys how to hunt or grow crops and the same applied to young women and their mothers. These traditions ensured the sustainability of communities as knowledge was passed down through generations. The lessons taught more than just how to feed your family, they also contained themes promoting ethics and values, such as giving back to the community and fair play.

Socially, and especially in South Africa, there is a shortage of father figures to steer the younger generation into Economic studies prove that mentorship manhood, into men of integrity who understand what is socially acceptable programmes increase motivation behaviour. These father figures not in the spheres of any business. As a only guide the next generation, but result, there is increased efficiency and also provide encouragement and instil effectiveness in operations as mentors support and guide up-and-coming talent confidence in young adults – just as their own forefathers did for them. in the workplace.

Likewise, this concept applies to the For example, international political sphere, which has seen a new businessman Richard Branson, CEO of Virgin Enterprises, established successful wave of political actors that have taken over from the postcolonial leaders mentorship programmes to groom symbolised by the likes of Nelson young entrepreneurs. His academies Mandela and Thabo Mbeki. offer workshops around the world, and One would assume that these he has also written a series of books on respectable leaders would take it upon how to run a successful business (read Screw It, Let’s Do It, takealot.com, R126). themselves to mentor new political players such as Julius Malema in order to His initiative has seen the progress of maintain and ensure the progress of the many young entrepreneurs within the nation. However, South Africa has seen a corporate world.

downward spiral in the way that political affairs have been handled since the new government came into effect.

Should we blame the older leaders who appeared to manage affairs correctly in their own time, for failing to teach the Julius Malemas of SA how to perform?

Trying to understand this deficiency in leadership leaves more questions than answers. Is the older generation too selfish to safeguard the future of the ones that follow because they have already acquired their wealth? Is there resentment for the so-called “born frees” because they were not involved in the Struggle? Do they not remember that it is their unspoken duty to guarantee that the successful structures they built are maintained for future generations to come?

A popular business philosophy is that success is not determined by how much wealth you acquire, rather by the increase in positive influence you have over others. The African continent would develop into a better-sustained population if there was a diffusion of knowledge and expertise from the older to the younger generation.

When considering the rise of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Africa, it is evident that the continent has a spirit of entrepreneurship.

A winning strategy

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The success of any socio-eco-political sector is dependent on the free-flow of knowledge and insights. The more information an individual can exploit the better equipped they are in engaging with situations. However, this knowledge is only acquired over time and needs to trickle down the corporate and social ladders to ensure a cycle of sustainability.

Although times are changing, the cogs around which businesses and society turn remain constant. It should be considered an unwritten law for the old to become shepherds of the young.

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Images are courtesy of SHUTTERSTOCK

Knowledge is power

E ntrepreneurs h ip

by Brendah Nyakudya

The MEDO Entrepreneurs arrive back at OR Tambo

F

or many young and aspiring entrepreneurs the road to making a success of their venture is often lonely without much-needed support and guidance. The lack of mentorship and funding usually results in many of these start-ups failing in their first year of operation.

It was this realisation that spurred Judi Sandrock, CEO and founder of Micro Enterprise Development Organisation (MEDO) to launch an organisation that would assist start-ups. Having created the Small Business Network, the micro enterprise development arm of Anglo Zimele, which assisted more than 100 entrepreneurial start-ups and created more than 1000 jobs, Judi was armed with an extensive background in enterprise development and knowledge management when she launched MEDO. With a desire to change the world we live in through the creation and more importantly the sustainable development of entrepreneurs, MEDO has taken

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Building tomorrow’s

business stars

The Micro Enterprise Development Organisation (MEDO) is providing five-star mentoring and opportunities for local entrepreneurs steps to becoming a valuable resource to those in its programme by assisting with funding, training, business support and initiatives that are relevant to the aspiring businessman. Its latest initiative,

sponsored by BT Global Services, was an international trade programme, which recruited 18 world-class entrepreneurs to go on a trade trip to the United Kingdom.

Before they jetted off, the entrepreneurs

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Each entrepreneur had to confirm appointments with prospective partners before they embarked on a trade trip to the UK off on a whirlwind trip to the UK for eight days of intensive trade talks, meetings, networking and deal-signing with hungry investors.

All the preparation ensured that the trip would be successful and it exceeded

all expectations. All who went on the trip returned empowered with new business knowledge, insights and the confidence that comes with knowing that their business can and will thrive.

Of the 11 represented on the trip, five small businesses signed deals or formed partnerships with stakeholders in the United Kingdom (and Europe). The remaining six were able to create networks with potential partners, with a long-term view for exponential business growth.

MEDO will continue coaching the entrepreneurs through regular management skills development and further education to ensure long-term success. It is these kinds of initiatives that are sorely needed in South Africa where unemployment is so rife and entrepreneurship is the only solution to meeting the need for jobs.

entrepreneurs who came back with confirmed deals were: Veronica Aswani Owner of WavuNow.com

WavuNow.com is a socially conscious e-commerce website aimed at bringing African crafters from rural communities to global markets. Over and above showcasing products which can be bought online, WavuNow also offers business development training to the micro businesses selling their products on the site. During the trip, Veronica secured verbal agreements with each of the three companies she met for orders.

Dean Thompson

Founder of Inferno Films

Inferno Films specialises in corporate and marketing videos, broadcast television, music videos and animation. Dean signed a deal with Jacaranda, the biggest corporate video production company in the UK to shoot local content for their clients. He now intends to go global.

Raphael Mohlala and Lucas Ledwaba Founders of Phakama Holdings

Phakama Holdings is a service provider in the IT enterprise architecture management and governance, telecommunications, multimedia and technology supply domains. The aim of the business is to provide solutions and technologies that will add value to businesses and governments, with mechanisms that will ensure effective and efficient trading platforms.

Phakama Holdings signed two deals with Alfresco and Masabi technologies, to become their representatives in SA and Africa at large.

Kgomotso Raphael Mohlala, Co-Founder of Phakamo Holdings

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images courtesy of THE LIME ENVELOPE

attended a week-long boot camp at Stellenbosch University Business School (USB) where they completed a business skills training course. The Executive Development programme included topics such as leadership, building international relationships and requirements for importing and exporting.

At the end of the boot camp, the entrepreneurs had to pitch their ideas to BT Executives, other company CEOs and the media in a bid to demonstrate their readiness for international trade. Since the primary objective of the trip was to secure relationships and trade relations, each and every one had to confirm appointments with prospective partners before they embarked on the trip.

Armed with their new skills and confirmed meetings, the MEDO team set

Q & A

Self-made success

We are planning to expand into Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria and Ghana over the next few years. The sequence of our expansion will be dependent on the relationships we establish.

What advice can you give any one looking to benefit from your programme?

Please apply at www.medo.co.za.

Judi Sandrock speaks on igniting the spirit of entrepreneurship When and how was MEDO (Micro Enterprise Development Organisation) started?

An early version of MEDO was started in October 2008, and the name MEDO was assigned in 2011. We have now grown out of our name, as we support small and medium businesses nowadays too.

What was the primary motivation behind the establishment of MEDO? To assist growing the economy through job creation. In developing economies over 70% of new jobs are created by micro and small businesses so we wanted to focus where the impact would be.

Who are the major players behind the organisation?

Myself, Nolu Tutani, René Truter and Bjarke Gotfredsen.

Since its inception how has it been received?

It’s been received very well with both entrepreneurs and sponsoring corporates.

What is the biggest challenge facing many who are looking to start their own businesses and succeed?

Just do it! Those who do not succeed are trapped by procrastination. Success comes from selling – a business only grows through its sales pipeline.

What does MEDO offer to those still looking for a big break and to those who have signed major deals abroad?

If you are looking for the “big break” stop waiting! You have to create your own destiny and not wait for it to appear.

To those who have signed deals, it’s one thing to sell it and another to keep it sold.

Therefore, deliver value and keep your promises.

What are the future plans of the organisation? www.afropolitan.co.za

MEDO Founder Judi Sandrock

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images courtesy of THE LIME ENVELOPE

E N T R E P R E N E U R

tra v el

The Heart

BY Dominique Wolf

of the House

Dominique Wolf spends an evening in the Colonial-styled jewel that is Hartford House boutique hotel

BY Brendah Nyakudya

I

t’s not every night you get to stay over in the home of the last prime minister of the Colony of Natal. Hartford House, a five-star boutique hotel situated in Mooi River in KZN, is one destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list. The moment you drive up the tree-lined pebbled driveway and through the heavy stone-pillared gate, you feel like you’re entering a beautiful, peaceful place of serenity.

Hartford House is spectacular in look and offering and there is a genuine feeling of coming home when you walk into the main house where you check in. With the attention that is lavished on you, you feel like a long-long family member returning.

No detail has gone unnoticed in the marvelously decorated guest house; all needs and wants are taken care of. Renowned for its 13 incomparably styled luxury suites, Hartford House has decorated each one differently with a fusion of colour, style and texture, and it was fascinating to see how each suite is put together.

Our guesthouse was an eggshell blue, which was calming and cool. The bed had many pillows, giving you the feeling of floating in a sea of duck feathers. Amenities went over and above the complimentary tea and coffee with fruit, biscuits, nougat, nuts, real coffee, real milk and complimentary sherry made available in the sitting area. It was absolute decadence! There is something amazing about feeling like you are genuinely away and far removed from reality and Hartford House has this down to a fine art.

Sipping dirty martinis on a private patio, it was impossible not to be awestruck by the height of the blue gum trees that surround the property. They looked like they’re touching the sky. The gardens are immaculately kept and the picturesque view goes on for miles. It’s a transfixing experience. With the evenings getting rather chilly we moved into the lounge of the cottages and lay on the warm heated rugs in front of the fire. It was hard not to drift off into blissful sleep – but it was too close to dinner time and that was something we were definitely not going to miss out on!

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If home is where the heart is, then the magnificent guesthouse we had the honour of staying at, should be called Hartford Home. www.afropolitan.co.za

At the Hartford House Boutique Hotel you can also find:

imageS COURTESY OF HARTFORD HOUSE

• The Hartford Wellness Centre • Trout and bass fishing, including trophysized fish • Horse-riding • Personalised trips to the battlefields, Drakensberg World Heritage Site, Giant’s Castle, Lotheni, Injisuthi and Kamberg reserves, as well as the Weenen Game Reserve • The historic chapel provides for weddings and memorial services • A fully-equipped, small conference facility • Helicopter landing facilities

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A few facts about Jackie Cameron: • She is only 30 years old.

• She has reached national Top Ten status four times in recent years, including Top 10 Eat Out, American Express Platinum Fine Dining Programme and People’s Choice awards.

• She was voted by South African Tourism as one of the Top 10 South African chefs.

• Her career so far has taken her to Germany, France, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Australia, England, Dubai, Shanghai, Spain, Copenhagen and Denmark.

• Her book, Jackie Cameron Cooks at Home has just been published and is on shelves now.

After a glorious bath in an oldfashioned footed tub, we made our way to the lounge area where we were treated to a glass of French Champagne and browsed through beautiful coffee table books and admired gorgeous artworks.

Sipping dirty martinis on a private patio, it was impossible not to be completely awestruck by the height of the blue gum trees that surround the property.

The head chef at Hartford House, Jackie Cameron, is a legend who has made her name as one of the top celebrity chefs in South Africa.

We were about to find out why. Our

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meal consisted of five courses, which transcended any taste sensations or flavour combinations we have ever experienced. A genius at creating intricate dishes which are all so originally and intricately presented, Jackie’s sophisticated fare delighted the tastebuds. As each course is served, Jackie comes out of the kitchen to explain her thinking behind each dish.

Her passion and creativity can be tasted in her work.

Each course was masterfully paired with beautiful wine and we learned that Hartford House has one of only ten five-star wine lists in South Africa. I can’t sing Jackie Cameron’s praises enough; she really takes fine dining to another level. Needless to say, we fell into our beds shortly after dinner. What an experience.

With not much time to spare before heading home in the morning, we still managed to enjoy a gorgeous threecourse breakfast - the menu also craftily engineered by Jackie. We left feeling amazing but I can safely say that our stay at Hartford House was too short.

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imageS COURTESY OF HARTFORD HOUSE

tra v el

Winter Warmers for

your Home Short, crisp days and long, chilly nights mean that we’ll be spending less time out ’n about and more time at home.

Here are a few favourites to keep your home deliciously cosy and inviting without compromising on style.

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Inspired Colour Give any room instant warmth with fire-hued tones of gold, orange, terracotta and red. If you’re not sure about such an intense colour palette, the softer warm tones of yellow, gold, brick and rust have a similar effect.

Remember, gentler greys and neutral colours can still make an ideal canvas for shots of rich warm colours like maroon, plum and tangerine.

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Images courtesy of ShutterstocK

BY ELKA SCHAIMBERG

D E C O R

The Right Lighting Our winter impulse is to dim the lighting, but this often results in a flat, cold light.

Downlighting with AmbiDim technology ensures that the lighting gradually ‘warms up’ as it is dimmed, producing soft, warm light at all levels of brightness. It is so often overlooked, but the right lighting can make all the difference.

Warm Textures Playing with textures can make a room feel comfortable and inviting.

The great thing is that texture works both aesthetically and practically.

Experiment by mixing up various weights and weaves of fabric to animate a room and give it character.

Think: soft, plush velvet pillow covers, cashmere-covered ottomans, faux fur throws and wool-knit rugs. To stay as snug as a bug, throw a few soft blankets, cushions and quilts on couches and chairs. This will make any room feel lived in without being too overbearing or cluttered. www.afropolitan.co.za

Top Tips to Beat Load-shedding Interesting facts and practical tips to reduce the impact of loadshedding by using less electricity in your home.

Invest in a Gas Heater

It will be one of the best decisions you’ve made this year. Almost 30% of your winter electricity bill is attributed to the use of electric heaters.

Install Aerated Shower Nozzles

They insert air bubbles into the water flow and reduce the size of the water droplets leaving the nozzle. The result is you use up to one third less hot water without even noticing.

Lower the Geyser Temperature Turning down the thermostat from 70˚C to 60˚C can reduce your water heating costs by 14%.

Go Solar

This is a costly exercise but will reduce your electricity bill substantially in the long run.

Don’t Be Left in the Dark

Use a battery powered inverter to power lowenergy lighting.

Use Gas for Cooking

Electric stoves take longer to reach temperature and it’s more difficult to adjust their heat. Gas heat can be adjusted instantly.

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R E V I E W S

FOR THE couch potatoES...

Seven Psychopaths Director: Martin McDonagh Starring: Sam Rockwell, Colin Farrell, Christopher Walken

This dark crime thriller is served up with a refreshing helping of humour.

It’s about a struggling Irish screenwriter, Marty (Colin Farrell), who is tasked to write a film script entitled Seven Psychopaths. Problem is he has no story and is now looking to meet some genuine psychopaths for inspiration. His oddball friends Billy (Sam Rockwell) and

Hans (Christopher Walken) are involved in a dog-snatching business, kidnapping dogs from wealthy owners and holding them for ransom. When they unintentionally kidnap the beloved Shih Tzu of a violent and sadistic gangster, Charlie Costello, (Woody Harrelson) Marty and his mates become entangled in the criminal underworld of LA. The razor sharp script is brought to life by a brilliant cast. It’s an enormously entertaining film overall, but it’s totally offbeat and may only appeal to some.

Hitchcock

Director: Sacha Gervasi Starring: Anthony Hopkins, Helen Mirren, Scarlett Johansson

The film centres on the relationship between one of the most influential filmmakers of the last century and his wife. When Hitchcock (Anthony Hopkins) acquires the rights to Robert Bloch’s gothic horror novel, Psycho, he intends for the project to give his career a new lease on life and puts his financial future on the line to get it made.

Although his wife and most honest critic, Alma Reville (Helen Mirren), shares his passion for film-making, she is tired of being sidelined. Plus, his weird obsessions with his leading ladies (Scarlett Johansson) don’t impress her much either. The film offers viewers some unknown insights, like the fact

that Alma was so much more influential than we ever thought. However, the title of the film is quite misleading. Hitchcock is more of an entertaining visit to the set of a horror classic, rather than a biopic of the master who made it. You won’t find any real insights into Hitchcock’s film-making process which can be disappointing for die-hard Hitchcock fans. Regardless, it’s a good movie that is worth watching.

This is 40 Director: Judd Apatow Starring: Paul Rudd, Leslie Mann, Maude Apatow

Following The 40-Year-Old Virgin (2005), Knocked Up (2007) and Funny People (2009), this is 45-year-old Judd Apatow’s fourth film as writerdirector. In his latest offering he has cast Paul Rudd as Pete, and his own wife (Leslie Mann) in the role of Pete’s wife, Debbie. He has also cast his own children (Maude and Iris Apatow) as Pete and Debbie’s pre-teen daughters.

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A personal story? One may think. As the awesome on-screen couple face the daunting milestone of the big four-oh, they don’t always do it very gracefully, proving that with age doesn’t always come wisdom. The film has all the ingredients for a smart and enjoyable comedy, but it’s also a very real and somewhat painful study of married life and parenthood.

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imageS courtesy of STER-KINEKOR & NUMETRO

BY ELKA SCHAIMBERG

M O V I E

R E V I E W S

BEAT BOX

Golden Voice of Africa

SALIF KEITA I

f you’re familiar with the artist that is Salif Keita, you’re no doubt just as intrigued by his music as his life in general.

Salif is a direct descendant of Sundiata Keita, the founder of the Mali empire. As a young boy his family rejected him as a result of his albinism (which was considered a bad omen in their culture) and his desire to pursue music, a dream that was considered lowly for members of the royal family.

He then moved to the city of Bamako where he played in nightclubs until he was invited to play with The Rail Band, a governmentsponsored outfit. After three years Salif and a few members of The Rail Band relocated to Cote d’Ivoire where they formed a new band called

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Les Ambassadeurs Internationaux.

It was then that Salif started making waves in the world of music, and in 1977 he was awarded the National Order of Guinea by President Toure. With his newfound success, he made the decision to pursue a solo career, a move that led him to Paris where he was welcomed with open arms and a Grammy nomination.

In 2006, Salif returned back home to Mali where he opened up a recording studio and continues to make music today.

His style of music, which is a combination of Afro-pop, Cuban and salsa with a hint of Afro-jazz has made him a firm favourite on the continent and internationally. A heart-warming story for a boy once rejected.

Albums • Seydou Bathili • Soro • Ko-Yan • Amen • Destiny of a Noble Cast • 69-80 • Folon • Rail Band • Papa • Mama • The Best of Salif Keita • Sosie • Moffou • The Best of the Early Years • Remixes from Moffou • M’Bemba • The Lost Album • La Difference • Tale

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imageS courtesy of SHEER MUSIC

BY BRENDAH NYAKUDYA

C D

R E V I E W

WORD ON WORDS

Zimbabwe Takes Its Land Back Written by Joseph Hanlon, Jeanette Manjengwa and Teresa Smart PublisheD BY Jacana Media

“

Zimbabwe has taken back its land, and the new occupants will not allow that land reform to be reversed.”

For more than a decade the infamous land grabs in Zimbabwe have been a talking point; be it on the street corner, local pub or on the agenda of a United Nations meeting. Books, shows and thesis have been produced about the devastating repercussions, of what was popularly known as “Jambanja”, to the economy of what was once the bread basket of Africa.

In this book however, Hanlon, Mujengwa and Smart state that they are not out to speculate about what should have happened or how events could have been executed better. “Zimbabwe Takes Its Land Back” is a book chronicling the results of the land reform in this present day. It takes a factual look at the black farmers who are working the land and making a success of it. This book

and its findings cast new light on the situation in Zimbabwe, revealing the uncomfortable truth that the new Zimbabwean farmer is making more use of the land than the white farmers they displaced.

This is a must read for anyone who has ever questioned Robert Mugabe’s sanity!

DRUG MULED Sixteen Years In A Thai Prison - The Vanessa Goosen Story Written by Joanne Joseph with Larissa Focke PublisheD BY MF Books Media

T

he war against drugs is one that each and every country is waging and for the most part losing. As a multi-billion dollar industry it has claimed countless lives in overdoses and gang violence.

But death is not the only way lives are lost as a result of drugs; many men and women are lured into the trade either by means of false promises or just mere naivety and end up incarcerated.

Such is the story of 21-year-old Miss SA Finalist Vanessa Goosen caught by Thai authorities after being conned into carrying 1,7kg of heroin from Thailand into South Africa.

Now back home, 37 year old Goosen opens up in an emotional tell-all book about surviving 16 years in prison, giving birth to her daughter inside the prison gates, and having to see her daughter return home without her.

A harrowing and cautionary tale everyone should read. www.afropolitan.co.za

imageS courtesy of PUBLISHERS

BY BRENDAH NYAKUDYA

B O O K

R E V I E W S

TASTING CORNER

Bunnahabhain Scotch whisky

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he Bunnahabhain (pronounced Bü-na-ha-venn) 12, 18 and 25 year old single malt whiskies are all un-chillfiltered resulting in the whiskies being represented in their purest form with a full depth of flavour, aroma, colour and character. The Bunnahabhain distillery, which means “mouth of the river” in Scots Gaelic and refers to the Margadale River that flows close by, lies on the north-eastern tip of the Isle of Islay, off the west coast of Scotland. Unlike typical Islay malts, which are heavily peated and smoke-filled, unpeated malted barley and pure spring water is used in crafting these award-winning whiskies, allowing their gentle, subtle notes to come through.

Black Bottle Scotch whisky

T

he iconic Scotch whisky Black Bottle, created in 1879, is the only blend to include all the renowned single malts from the Isle of Islay, Scotland’s most famous whisky-producing island, balanced by the finest Highland, Lowland and Speyside malt and grain whiskies. Award-winning, the whisky is an extraordinary blend of the diverse taste profiles from Islay and there are very few, if any, whiskies that come close in terms of style. The bold taste of Black Bottle is rich and full with a slight honeyed sweetness and unmistakable smoky, peaty Islay character. Black Bottle is available in a gift tube from about R220 per bottle.

www.afropolitan.co.za

imageS courtesy of MANUFACTURERS

BY BRENDAH NYAKUDYA

W h isky

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A F R O

W H E E L S

BY @carandgameguru

Bold and refined

Chrysler 300C

The Chrysler 300C shakes off the stereotypes, and re-invents itself as an executive’s dream ride

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ithout being patronising, Chrysler has come a very long way in the last few years. It has evolved as well as any manufacturer on the market and what it offers the consumer nowadays is better than ever. Chrysler’s products are not only good to drive, they are great to look at too. We were lucky enough to be given a chance to test the 300C for Afropolitan.

Some of you may remember the older 300C which looked like a Bentley knock-off and had a gangster-like stigma attached to it. The newer, sexy edition of the 300C throws these stereotypes out the window and delivers a sedan fit for a CEO’s parking space. It is all business inside and out and looks both professional and unique.

When designing the newer 300C, it is quite evident that Chrysler did not want to lose the identity of the old 300C, but were looking for just a little more refinement. The large front grill and bold aerodynamic lines create that aggressive, over-the-top look of the older version, yet the slick solid headlamps tone down the front end. The 300C has an almost coupe-styled design with a swooping back-end which gives it the sportier look, but does ever so slightly cramp the rear headroom for the sixfoot-plus passenger. The 20-inch wheels www.afropolitan.co.za

and swooping arches mean that the side profile of the 300C is instantly noticeable.

The new mantra of excellence is carried from the outside in and the 300C over-delivers on luxury. When you look at some of the more popular German business sedans on the market today, everything is an optional extra and you end up having to add a fortune onto the base price to have a car fit for your every need. The 300C doesn’t do that, because everything you may ever need or want is a standard feature.

The sound system will blow your mind; it is a 7.1 channel surround sound system with 9 Alpine speakers that create crystal clear tones which are literally music to your ears. The Uconnect touch screen system has one of the largest displays we have ever seen and with this system you are able to operate everything from the navigation to your

cell phone. Leather seats, climate control and a sunroof are just some of the other features inside the 300C we really loved.

Now all of these features would be no good if the 300C didn’t deliver on the tarmac. We had the 3.0 litre V6 CRD version to test and the diesel engine not only impressed with performance off the line, but with overall power delivery too. For a diesel we expected a better fuel economy but the consumption was as high as some of the petrol competitors in its market. Finding that flaw in the 300C actually made us rather happy, as it was difficult to find anything else wrong with this executive sedan. The claimed 7.2 litres per 100km driven was actually closer to 10.5 on a combined cycle.

At R562 990 the 300C is not a cheap car, but when weighed up against what you have to pay for a competitor’s car plus the extra features, the 300C could be the bargain of the century.

Chrysler 300C Interior

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I

t never ceases to amaze us that Subaru doesn’t rank among the most popular cars in South Africa. They are reliable and great to drive, — when you are choosing a car for yourself, what else matters? Subaru is one of those enigmatic brands that you see on the road and take little notice of unless there is one baring down on you in your rear-view mirror. But for those who have had the chance to drive and even own a Subaru, you have an understanding of why their owners swear by them.

We were given the chance to put the Legacy GT through its paces for just over a week and when it came time to returning it, we were both satisfied and sad to see it go. The Legacy falls into that segment of car manufacturing that is probably one of the most competitive out there. The family/business sedan market has no shortage of options available to the consumer and the competition is stiff.

The Legacy GT is a beautiful looking car. It is long and sleek with design accents littered through its frame to add to its sporty appeal and business allure.

The car has a presence on the road both because of its size and its audacious trimmings. The Legacy has a professional side profile and overall look to it, but at the same time the large air intake on the bonnet is an injection of crazy. And it is that injection that sets Subaru apart from the competition.

The Legacy is fantastic to drive. It whips off the line like a sprinter in the Olympic finals and has fabulous speed at the top end. It handles perfectly both on the smooth open road, as well as around corners. The Legacy GT is a well-balanced example of Japanese engineering.

Subaru’s engineering is so sought after that Toyota’s Car of the Year finalist, the 86, is pretty much all Subaru where it counts.

Inside the Legacy is no different; since the last version we tested there have been one of two design modifications to the interior systems. Everything is much cleaner and the driver display and entertainment display have better functionality. We didn’t like the fact that the doors do not auto-lock when the car is driving and if you do lock them yourself, they do not unlock centrally without pushing the button. Also, in a car that costs around R500 000, the fact that only one of the windows is fully automatic winding up and down seems like a silly place to cut corners. But aside from these minor complaints, there is no way to fault the Legacy GT. We can’t stress it enough that when it comes to Subaru, just drive one and you will understand. What’s the worst that could happen? You may discover something you never knew you loved.

One sporty executive sedan

imageS courtesy of Manufacturers

The Subaru Legacy GT is another cracker from the manufacturer – who can’t seem to put a foot wrong

Subaru Legacy GT

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www.afropolitan.co.za

When it comes to speaking at seminars or conferences,

seeing is believing

Mark Fraser-Grant is renowned for facilitating high impact, deeply engaging talks and seminars that move and inspire people in such a way that it heals; changes and helps to create sustainable solutions for the challenge at hand. He not only presents a set of practical tools that can be used on a daily basis in all aspects of life, but he also delivers a process of transformation that happens right there in the seat.

Mark is the MD of Beyond Coaching and a celebrated International Speaker and Communication Specialist. Beyond Coaching is the fastest growing ICF-accredited coach training institution and provider of coaching services in Southern Africa. The company offers a complete repertoire of coaching- and related services for personal or organisational development purposes.

On the personal development services side the company holds the licence to the Consciousness Coaching® Academy, the global leader in personal coaching and coach training programs.

“Nothing makes me feel more privileged than to be in a role that supports and develops people to recognise their own greatness.” – Mark Fraser-Grant.

Their organisational development services include corporate coaching programs, personal and executive coaching services, as well as tailored coaching interventions to suit any change management initiative or organisational development strategy.

Their associated services are aimed at the empowerment of leaders and small enterprise development.

Beyond Coaching empowers people to create the results they want through Consciousness Coaching® principles that is proving to be a far more sustainable form of learning.

‘Clients come to us to improve their communication, create clarity on the way forward, get their teams and employees engaged and inspired. They want us to move them to the next level or create a far better culture. Our clients want real results and a powerful direct intervention that leaves them clearer, more energised, creative and able to achieve results. We have a proven track in causing shifts, defined cultural improvement and far better communication that improves flow, productivity and empowerment in companies, teams and individuals.

This is done through applying the Consciousness Coaching® principles that empower people to see the bigger picture, to become fully aware of the context within the content of the situations that they are faced with, to see it as it is. It helps them understand what they need to create to achieve the desired state of being, instead of simply reacting to or being a victim of circumstances. It inspires them to take responsibility for their actions, to think on their feet, to be in the now and come up with their own options and solutions. Based on results achieved for a host of our clients already, as well as the latest research and findings in the business arena, this has been proven to be the most sustainable form of learning.’

To find out how we can help you or your organisation, please contact us on 0861 266 724 or send Mark an email at mark@beyondcoaching.co.za

E xecuti v e

T oy

The Jet Ski

Conquer the waves with this top-of-the-line watercraft, the Sea-Doo RXT-X 260 RS

Sea-Doo RXT-X 260 RS

www.afropolitan.co.za

it to. It also has an iControl system, which integrates and controls all systems of the Sea-Doo to create the best possible ride.

And with GPS-controlled cruise control, you would be forgiven for thinking the Sea-Doo is more like a car than a water craft.

The Sea-Doo can carry up to three passengers and has sideways adjustable handle bars. In the world of exciting outdoor toys, this jet ski could be one of the coolest. At a hefty R210 000 it is not for everybody, but if you want to stand out on the waves, this is the one to buy.

imageS courtesy of Manufacturers

W

ith winter fully upon us, the last thing you want to be doing when you head down to the dam or off to the coast for a holiday is actually get into the water.

So why not get a jet ski? It is an adrenalinfilled way to spend time on the waves, without having to brave too much of the cold. And even though you will inevitably get a bit wet, your heart will be pumping so fast you wouldn’t need a wetsuit to stay warm.

Regarded as one of the finest jet skis on the market, the Sea-Doo RXT-X 260 RS is a world-beating water craft and a favourite among pros and extremists. It has a 260hp supercharged, intercooled four-stroke 1494cc engine that can get you from 0 to 80km/h in 2.9 seconds. If you are like us, you’d be quite shocked to see how quickly the Sea-Doo moves, but never fear, this jet ski also has the world’s first on-water braking system which gives riders the ability to bring their craft to a controlled stop when and how they want

Sea-Doo RXT-X 260 RS

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BY ALYN ADAMS

C O L U M N

If you want people to remember something, This may be just me, and perhaps I shop in the wrong bookstores, but why aren’t there more affordable, popular histories of African civilisations on the shelves? And I use ‘popular’ in the academic sense i.e. written for the interested laymen, not historians, rather than ‘outselling the Twilight novels’.

Alas, as a history fan, I realise my deviant tastes are never going to be that sort of popular with the cool kids.

But that reinforces my point – even as a minority-interest weirdo, if I want to catch up on a bit of European history, I’m spoilt for choice. Secondhand bookshops are stuffed with it, whether you want something general like “Europe from the Renaissance to Waterloo”, or something deeply specific, like the uniform insignias of every regiment involved in World War II. You can imbibe European history in whatever-size doses you choose.

African histories, when you can find them, tend to involve the last 100 years – when it’s the two or three thousand years before that that I’d really like to know more about.

Or when you do find something that looks like a fascinating archive of precolonial material, it’s a massive tome at Expensive Books with a price-tag that would require the sale of a kidney, and you opt to buy groceries that month instead. You will find a bit of colonial material in the used bookshops, but they’re all 40 or more years old and you need several stiff pink gins just to get you through the innate superiority complex and unquestioned imperialist assumptions.

I only got into history as an adult; at school it was just a subject I took because I could pass it with less effort than accountancy. That may, of course, be a reaction to the way history was taught in the old South Africa; as a collection of names and dates arranged in some sort of quasi-logical order to prove that history is an uninterrupted progression towards the pinnacle of human civilisation: white Afrikaner nationalism in an English-style parliament. The idea of interrogating political economies or measuring ‘civilisations’ against the

72

inequalities of their class structures wasn’t encouraged, as it was feared this might lead to thinking.

I was in my forties before I discovered that Boudicca (or Boadicea, as it was spelled back in 1975) wasn’t, strictly speaking, an ‘English’ heroine. By then, I was reading whatever I could find, finally understanding that history is actually the story of how societies try to organise themselves, and how beliefs and priorities affect that.

The history I was taught included the ‘empty land’ theory; the myth that when Van Riebeeck arrived, the whole country west of the Fish River was uninhabited, except for a few ‘nomads’ who moved around a lot and thus couldn’t be counted accurately. So my forebears weren’t land-grabbers, they were enterprising explorers. Four decades

I want to know the story of Africa, as told by Africans. later, I got hold of New History of South Africa by Giliomee & Mbena, and finally got the facts I had needed back in the 70s, to argue with unpleasant drunk uncles around the braai.

But even though this history affirms the existence and extent of the Khoi and the San at the time the Europeans arrived, and even provides the tribal names of the distinct clans that the Dutch grouped together as ‘Hottentots’, their whole story is covered in an overview in the first chapter. So is the initial migration of the central and eastern peoples – and most of this is archaeological evidence, rather than a retelling of the history of these peoples as they told it themselves. We only start getting the history ‘stories’ once they’re recorded European-fashion – in writing.

Back in the day, I read a Wilbur Smith novel (it was the 70s! I was 12!

Everything else was censored, okay?) called The Sunbird; which involved a

legendary Phoenician city built on an ancient lake in northern Botswana, more than two thousand years ago. Of course, they’d enslaved the locals, and the novel climaxes with a brutal revolution, in which the enslaved wipe out the paleskinned oppressors and their mixedrace collaborators. Yes, Wilbur was as paranoid as every other whitey in the 70s.

Then I went off to a decent liberal varsity in the 80s and got conscientised and was told by the BC okes that Wilbur was a colonialist apologist white supremacist who was just trying to explain away Great Zimbabwe and that African civilisation had no need to borrow from Mediterranean culture, thank you very much (as if borrowing were a crime; as if any great civilisation hadn’t learnt and stolen and assimilated), but nevertheless I reeducated myself.

Then I started reading history as a grown-up, and along comes Credo Mutwa and tells me that of course there were invasive Phoenicians back in the day, and they did sail up the Zambezi and conquer a colony, and they did oppress the people for decades, if not centuries. And they were overthrown in a bloody revolt, and then the leaders of that army set up a non-racial exploitative dictatorship on Phoenician principles, and that was the mighty African civilisation that built Great Zimbabwe.

Then it all fell apart, as dictatorships do, and everybody moved around a bit. Now I don’t know whom to believe, although if the BC okes want to argue with Credo Mutwa, I’m not getting in the middle.

Not my place, really.

So I’m thirsty for more info, I suppose.

Not just about Phoenician colonies; about the whole fascinating continent.

We all come from here originally; it stands to reason we have older stories than anywhere else. I want to know the story of Africa, as told by Africans. If I’m just looking in the wrong places, set me straight and send me suggestions.

But if I have a point, we need to become fanatical about recording oral histories.

When an old person dies, we lose a library. It’s time to copy all the files.

www.afropolitan.co.za

Images are courtesy of SHUTTERSTOCK

write it down

BRANDSMITH/OM RANGE 001

34°08`27.72``S 19°01`14.97``E Discovery is everything.

The longer the journey, the more rewarding the discovery. This one’s been a century in the making.

The Oude Molen range of limited edition, hand-crafted brandies is a tribute to pioneer and innovator René Santhagens, the father of South African brandy and the founder of Oude Molen in 1908 - true to his traditions, loyal to his standards and faithful to his philosophy of striving for perfection.

ranGe roVer eVoQUe

More than Meets the eye With Terrain ResponseÂŽ and Adaptive Dynamics, the Range Rover Evoque has Land Rover at its heart. landrover.co.za