The African Professional Issue 14 by The African Professional™ Magazine (formerly Expatriate)

Madiba

HOW THE AFRICAN PRO’S WILL REMEMBER HIM

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Note

Your Feedback

Past quarter briefs

Cover Story -

Mandela - How the African Proâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s will remember him

Richard Malcolm - W.U. Regional Vice President

Dr. Bisi Abiola Interview

Michael Sudarkasa - A passion for African business

Quinton Zunga -

Executive Director of Arkein Group

Book Review - Long Walk to Freedom

Krensel -

Why I hope Pandor will remain DHA Minister

Fraud Prevention

Sakutukwa - We teach girls to shrink themselves

Lere Mgayiya - The Millionaire Shoe-shiner

What happens in Vegas stays there

Peprah: Education and poverty

Kenya at 50 celebrations

Obaasima Ghana Year End Function

www.theafricanpro.com

EDITOR’S NOTE FOUR WEDDINGS AND A FUNERAL Available at

As advertised on

marking half a century of independence. A big party was thrown in Nairobi and African media was littered with journals, documentaries and reviews of the country’s journey since gaining freedom from the British in 1963.

wo decades ago, the movie Four Weddings and a Funeral starring Hugh Grant captured movie goers across the globe. It was a resounding success grossing a quarter of a billion dollars and bagging an Oscar nomination for best picture. The title best describes my view of the past quarter since my pen pounced upon this column; four key celebrations and an internationally significant demise. The funeral was that of Nelson Mandela, the hero, the legend, the icon. Our lead story breaks away from our regular one on one interviews to bring you the voices of multiple African professionals and their feelings on the passing of this great man. The first celebration I have in mind was that of our third anniversary as a publication. It continues to be an honour to tell the stories of the many movers and shakers that are defining our generation of Africans. Similarly, my country of birth celebrated its golden jubilee

The third celebration was a wedding of two leaders – both women – and their parties – and then a divorce! South African opposition leaders Helen Zille of the DA and Dr Mamphele Rampele of Agang announced at a press conference a pact that would see the latter contest the presidency on the former’s party ticket in the elections set for 7th May 2014. But only a few days later, the good doctor called off the arrangement. It was a key moment in the country’s history as many thought the union would have presented a credible challenge to the continued power grip of the popular ANC. On a personal note, the birth of my first child dominates my thoughts and emotions. As I write this with crimson eyes from a night of diaper-checking and lullaby-singing, I feel like sleep is overrated. Why rest away while your world is changing. My son may keep me up at night but he also makes me want to get up and chase the idea of a better me. We hope you enjoy our fourteenth offering which coincides with the introduction of two new sections – feedback received over the past quarter and briefs from our regular website articles. KC Rottok, CA (SA) Creative and Financial Journalism (Wits University) Twitter: @africankc (8,000 followers)

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Publisher: The Proud African Professional (Pty) Limited Reg. Number: 2010/012428/07 P O Box 4935 Randburg, 2125 Republic of South Africa Tel: 011 791 7484 www.theafricanpro.com & www.expatriate.co.za Director: Carol Malonza – carol@africanpro.co.za Twitter: @mueni8 Managing Editor: KC Rottok – kc@africanpro.co.za Twitter: @africankc Deputy Editor & Content Advisor Leah Maina Edition Writers/Contributors Keith Kundai Wanjiru Waichigo Chionesu Sakutukwa Andreas Krensel Yaw Peprah Stephen Twinoburyo Photography Mzu Nhlabati www.creativenation.co.za Design Mike Obrien mike@obriendesign.co.za Website Drutech Media www.drutechmedia.co.za Advertising Enquiries info@africanpro.co.za michelle.baker@mediamarx.co.za To subscribe or contribute an article, email us at info@africanpro.co.za All rights reserved. Excerpts may be used as long as this magazine is credited as the source. Longer versions of our content may only be used with the written permission of the Publisher. Neither the publisher nor the editor accept responsibility for any of the information from edition writers or contributors. Whilst we have taken care in preparing this publication, the publisher/ editor does not warrant its completeness or accuracy. The editor retains the right to edit all contributions. Advertisers are responsible for their material. © The African Professional / The Expatriate SA: ISSN 2218 – 757X.

YOUR FEEDBACK

SELECTED TWEETS TO THE EDITOR @africankc

@deekareithi touching story 03.01.14 (referring to Zain Verjee website article)

until reading it from @africankc. I’m saddened by the news. 19.01.14

@danielkthebe: @africankc enjoyed some of your articles. 03.12.13

@SueNyathi: True. It will be out this year RT”@Mavhure: @ africankc @SueNyathi We hear she is writing a 2nd novel. Sue; drop the news.*waits*”04.01.14

SELECTED POSTS FROM FACEBOOK. COM/AFRICANPRO

just

@NakiBrown: @africankc Brilliant content 10/10!! Hooked on the magazine 02.12.2013 @stellamatimba: @africankc Love reading the stories in your mag. Inspirational 11.12.13

@InspireYoungAfr: @africankc I applaud her for choosing to shed light on Psoriasis, as a culture we tend to shy away from speaking out on issues like this 04.01.14 (Zain Verjee web article)

@PaulPaulus13: @africankc It goes to show with hard work, determination & the will to succeed nothing is impossible. You are an inspiration to the young 29.12.13 (referring to Sam Jonah article)

@DupsyAbiola: @PatienceNomonde @africankc Thanks so much both of you. I hope you have a great 2014. Happy New Year!! 05.01.14 (referring to Dupsy Abiola website article)

@Pearlnicodemus @africankc I respect your work so much. Salute and all the best for 2014 01.01.14

@Tammymenton1 @africankc Great article on JJ NGULUBE‘s story Pg10 http://t.co/aMyYJTmN2U Such a modest man. Love the fact that he doesn’t own a car. 06.01.2014

@PatienceNomonde @africankc have just read the article, how inspiring :) 02.01.2014 (referring to Dupsy Abiola website article) @BridgeAfricaNNA: @africankc ‘Welcome & thank you’ oh .. I look forward to reading the article on PR; Lord knows I’ve had my “moments” with Home Affairs! 02.01.2014 @NtsikiMotsugi: @abby_larbi @ africankc yesterday I got myself the latest issue 13.. I’m inspired by Babs Kagga#bigup 03.01.14 @Moe_Love21: Congratulations @_Rumbie_: You are trending, it’s refreshing to read about a successful young Zimbabwean making inroads in foreign lands 03.01.14

@kgabomotaki: @africankc Predictability, consistency and sustainability attract investors in a country...interesting article. 06.01.2014 @Nnedi: @africankc meant to tell you, I thought the article was great. :-D 17.01.14 (referring to Nnedi Okorafor article) @TinaChikara: @africankc @_ Rumbie_ Great article and great edition! Some strong dynamic and different women featured. Inspired! 17.01.14 @Phuti_wise: @africankc Monica (Rubombora) is very intelligent, dynamic and hard working. I am not surprise with all her achievements. 18.01.14 @BongaMbokazi77: Damn it, I didn’t know about Komla Dumor’s passing www.theafricanpro.com

I am sure she will bring peace and stability to that region just like her counterpart, Sirleaf did in Liberia – James Wafula Wanjala 21.01.14 (referring to Samba-Panza web article) I think this is true for most countries. Most households have 2 parents & an average of 3 children. That’s 5 cellphones already, give or take. It is really an obvious statistic that we will have more cell phones than taps (in Africa) 27.01.14 (referring to Nzioka Waita web article) SELECTED POSTS TO OUR WEBSITE WWW.THEAFRICANPRO.COM On Seychelles Travel Story: Ha ha ha “....the warmth of hospitable natives....” are you black? The rest of the article is smashing. Alice Kamau On EY Africa CEO Interview: Why is it that these ‘experts’ never tell you anything you didn’t already know? The above opinions have been regurgitated by all and sundry for the last five years. New insights, please? GM On Masiyiwa refusing to bribe story: Thank you sir! We learned from our man of God to exercise staying power. You know who you are and all things are yours, no amount of money can change or make you compromise on who you are. Thank you sir. You are truly an inspiration. God bless you. Jane Manusi

ARTICLES AVAILABLE ON THEAFRICANPRO.COM Uganda’s Aamito wins top model competition

prospects are exciting in 2014.

After months of competition, Stacy Aamito won the title of Africa’s Next Top Model ahead of two other finalist African professional models Nigeria’s Opeyemi Awoyemi and Michaela Pinto from Angola. Full story www. africanpro.co.za/professionals

Read about Dr. Kwame Amuah, a Ghanaian-born professional and entrepreneur who is the husband of Nelson Mandela’s eldest surviving child, Makaziwe Mandela. Full story on www.africanpro.co.za/ entrepreneurs

Aliko Dangote joins twitter

Adesina: Winning Forbes award is not about me

Dr. Amuah: On marrying Mandela’s daughter, career & entrepreneurship

Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote presumably decided that being more active on social media would be his New Years resolution. He joined twitter on the handle @ alikodangote setting the network alive by gaining one follower every 5 seconds. Full story www. africanpro.co.za/entrepreneurs

Steve Biko: Critical lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs Kenyan Steve Biko writes about the lessons he has gained since becoming an entrepreneur which he believes are critical for anyone aspiring to go into business. Full story on www.africanpro.co.za/ entrepreneurs

Nigerian Agriculture Minister Dr. Akinwumi Adesina has said that scooping the Forbes Africa Person of the Year Award 2013 is not about him but about “a new future for Africa”. Full story www. africanpro.co.za/professionals EY Africa CEO: Why Africa’s prospects are exciting in 2014

Young Ghanaian launches Groundbreaking App for farmers

Ajen Sita is chief executive of Ernst & Young Africa. He outlines reasons why he believes Africa’s

Edison Gbenga Ade, a young social entrepreneur from Ghana, has launched the ground-breaking www.theafricanpro.com

Briefs

mobile application Agripro aimed at improving the agricultural value chain. Full story www.africanpro. co.za/technology Dos Santos Junior: Ability not nepotism makes me right for Angolan fund job The 35 year old son of the Angolan president has insisted that it is his credentials that made him suitable for appointment to chair the board of the country’s sovereign fund. Full story on www.africanpro. co.za/professionals Dupsy Abiola: 31 year old Nigerian on Britain’s best businesswomen’s list One of the many daughters of late Nigerian billionaire Moshood Abiola has been named in a list of Britain’s best businesswomen following the launch of her website for interns. Full story on www. africanpro.co.za/entrepreneurs

Gorowa’s boys turn Cape Town into a little Harare Zimbabwean professional coach Ian Gorowa turned Cape Town into a little Harare by leading the national soccer team deep into the CHAN tournament. Full story on www.africanpro.co.za/ professionals Nigerian lawyer who founded world-famous “Whats-up Africa” satirical blog We profile Ikenna Azuike, a 34 year old ‘Nigerian-Brit’ who quit his job as a lawyer to create a now world-famous YouTube hosted blog that tracks developments in Africa. Full story on www.africanpro. co.za/professionals

Uhuru, Dangote & Malema top list of most influential Africans 2013/2014 We comment on a list of the Africans who had the capacity to www.theafricanpro.com

have an effect on Africa in 2013 and whose influence is expected to persist into the New Year. Full story on www.africanpro.co.za/ professionals End South Sudan mayhem says Africa Development Bank president In the wake of the internal violence that has gripped South Sudan leading to deaths and displacement of thousands, the Rwandan born president of the ADB has called for an end to the mayhem. Full story on www. africanpro.co.za/professionals Kagame: Why I am like Mandela Following the death of the universally acclaimed icon Nelson Mandela, Rwandan President Paul Kagame wrote an article in which he outlined the similarities in his personal struggles with those of Mandela and the experiences of the South African people to those of Rwandans. Full story on www. africanpro.co.za/professionals

ARTICLES AVAILABLE ON THEAFRICANPRO.COM Rwandan Ambassador: People playing politics with Karegeya death Rwandan Ambassador to South Africa has stated that those who claim that the death of dissident Patrick Karegeya was as a result of a government hit are playing politics. Full story on www. africanpro.co.za/professionals

Remembering BBC’s Komla Dumor The passing of Ghanaian born Komla Dumor of the BBC this past quarter bears striking similarities to the demise of SABC star Vuyo Mbuli. Full story on www. africanpro.co.za/professionals

Arunma Oteh: Nigerian ‘Iron-lady’ who transformed the stock exchange We publish an interview with the the Director General of the Securities Exchange Commission of Nigeria who was at the forefront of reforming the capital markets at a time when investor confidence was terribly low. Full story on www. africanpro.co.za/professionals Safaricom’s Nzioka: More mobiles than taps in Kenya, the revolution continues How Masiyiwa lost multi-million contract by refusing to bribe Strive Masiyiwa, the Zimbabwean founder of the multibillion dollar enterprise that is Econet Wireless, reportedly lost a contract that was the source of millions of dollars a year by refusing to pay a bribe. Full story on www. africanpro.co.za/entrepreneurs

Lupita Nyong’o chances at academy awards We profile the Kenyan actress Lupita Nyong’o and examine the odds of her winning the very first Oscar for the East African country. Full story on www.africanpro. co.za/professionals

A director of East Africa’s largest mobile network comments on the continuation of the mobile revolution in Kenya with the launch of Safaricom’s ‘Lipa na M-Pesa online’. Full story on www. africanpro.co.za/professionals Ten Tips on Effective People Management Life is a juggling act, and managers need to be extra nimble and dexterous to face the challenges of managing the workplace. We provide ten key pointers on how to become an effective manager. Full story on www.africanpro.co.za/ contributors Pria Hassan: ‘Women of Africa’ recipient of a multi-billion fuel deal It is difficult for women to make in-roads into the fuel supply industry and many other big business environments in South Africa. Pria Hassan who recently secured a multi-billion deal

Briefs

from Transnet give tips to other aspiring women entrepreneurs. Full story on www.africanpro.co.za/ entrepreneurs

does not like being referred to as Africa’s youngest billionaire. Full story on www.africanpro.co.za/ entrepreneurs

SA in desperate need of foreign professionals The shortage of highly-skilled workers has been artificially induced by the Immigrations Act (2002), which makes it exceedingly difficult for foreigners to find work in South Africa. This is the view of Adcorp. Full story on www. africanpro.co.za/professionals Top five South inventions

African

Sonwabile: I designed the shirt Mandela was buried in We look at the story of Sonwabile Ndamase, the man who created the Mandela shirt. Full story on www.africanpro.co.za/ professionals Thakkar: Why I don’t like the title “Africa’s youngest billionaire” Ashish Thakkar is a Ugandan national and world-famous African entrepreneur. He dropped out of school at the age of 15 to start his own business and has not returned ever since. He explains why he

A leading Zimbabwean tax expert examines the proposal in Zimbabwe to tax the wealthy 50% of their personal incomes. Full story on www.africanpro.co.za/ professionals CAR’s Samba-Panza: From insurance broker to ‘Her Excellency the President”

tech

In the wake of the development of the world’s first digital laser in Pretoria, we look at the top five South African technological inventions. Full story on www. africanpro.co.za/technology

Mavima: 50% tax on rich Zimbabweans is crazy, will scare diaspora

Top ten African women to watch in 2014 Check out our list of Africa’s most influential women in the field of art. Full story on www. africanpro.co.za/professionals Zain Verjee: My 30 year secret, leprosy-like disease Zain Verjee is a journalist who began her career at the TV station Kenya Television Network and radio station Capital FM before joining CNN in 2000. She speaks candidly about her fight with psoriasis. Full story on www. africanpro.co.za/professionals

Read our profile of Africa’s third female head of state who trained as a lawyer and started her own insurance brokerage before venturing into politics and rising to Head of State. Full story on www. africanpro.co.za/entrepreneurs

Madiba

HOW THE AFRICAN PROâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WILL REMEMBER HIM

BRO U G H T TO YO U BY

9 772218 75 0077

R29,95

M AGA ZI N E

11013 4>

I s s ue 1 4

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NELSON MANDELA

HOW THE AFRICAN PROâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WILL REMEMBER HIM

Ma 14

No one is born hating another person because of the colour of their skin, or his background, or his religion.

TAP COVER STORY

adiba 15

People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.

NELSON MANDELA

HOW THE AFRICAN PRO’S WILL REMEMBER HIM

To quote the Carte Blanche Tribute to Nelson Mandela who died on 5 December 2013: “How to go forward without a man who became a myth in his own lifetime? There was no known accolade not bestowed on him, he kept his head when all about him people were losing theirs, he walked with kings but never lost the common touch and in his own words, the long walk to freedom has a long way to go.” We asked a cross-section of African professionals what they thought of his passing and how they would remember him.

Ma ZAMBIAN-BORN MAUREEN NKANDU, HEAD OF COMMUNICATIONS AT NEPAD

I was not shocked at the death because we had been prepared for it for months. Only two days before he died, Mandela’s daughter Makaziwe hinted he was to go soon. I had mixed emotions, sad but relieved that he could now rest. I cried a bit on reflection of his suffering. I watched most of the coverage on TV over the entire occasion and it had befitting dignity and was very well managed because there had been meticulous planning for it over the years. I was inspired

and buoyed at every flash-back at Mandela’s struggles, tribulations and triumphs. It gave me the opportunity to assess myself, my character and what I stand for. I met Mandela several times but upmost on my mind was when he calmly asked then Nigerian President Obasanjo to grant us (SABC News team) an interview in 1999. Each time I think of Mandela, I ask myself how I can be able to forgive those who hurt me in the past and continue to do so.

KENYAN-BORN CHARLES MWAURA, CHAIRMAN OF THE PAMOJA CAPITAL GROUP I was somewhat prepared for Mandela’s passing because we were all aware that he was ailing but still I felt profound sadness that the world would lose such a man. I met him in 2006 and I recall experiencing a sense of greatness. I watched the memorial on TV and I thought it was fitting that over 100 heads of state attended. The Obama speech gave me goosebumps; I actually recorded it and have re-watched it five times. He was my neighbour in Houghton and I took

my wife and children to lay flowers by his house. I was also privileged to attend the send-off at Waterkloof, it was a sombre moment but with great speeches. He was a giant of a man who epitomised Christ in the way he refused to be released when others were incarcerated, how he forgave and how he lived by example.

“Obama’s speech gave me goose-bumps; I have watched the recording five times already...”

TAP COVER STORY

I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.

adiba Nelson Mandela

DRC-BORN DR. DESIRE KIKOMBA, CHAIRMAN OF THE BUPHE GROUP As a human being, the passing away of another is always sad. With Mandela, I felt we had lost an icon but being a medical doctor I had the understanding that he was sick and felt that it was probably time for him to go to rest. I feel privileged to have lived in the same time as him unlike those who will come after us who will only read about him in history. I recall sharing a lift with him in the hospital where I worked and it felt like a dream, I got a sense of joy to be in the same space as such

a great man. Some say we give him too much credit, as Madiba himself would probably say - everyone is entitled to their opinion. I will remember him for the lesson of forgiveness.

“I recall sharing a lift with him in the hospital where I worked; I got a sense of joy to be in the same space as such a great man....”

ZIMBABWEAN-BORN DR. JACKIE CHIMHANZI, SENIOR STRATEGIST AT IDC

When he passed, it felt like the moment that the world had collectively dreaded for long was finally here and we had no choice but to deal with it. In that moment, I felt that we were poorer for his physical absence but richer for his legacy. He had rested having given so much of himself. I watched the memorial and thought President Obama was outstanding. It was the way he challenged us all to emulate the great example that Madiba represented. I thought the funeral was beautiful and

befitting - the grave side surrounded by white flowers amidst the Qunu hills was so serene and tranquil. He was where he loved. I worked with Ma Graca Machel, his widow, and each time we met, one of my first questions would be “how is Madiba?” I watched the movie Long Walk to Freedom on the Sunday of the funeral and it was a poignant reminder of what the world had lost. As President Obama so eloquently captured, “he belongs to the ages.”

NELSON MANDELA

HOW THE AFRICAN PRO’S WILL REMEMBER HIM

There is no easy walk to freedom anywhere, and many of us will have to pass through the valley of the shadow of death again and again before we reach the mountaintop of our desires.

Ma Nelson Mandela

GHANAIAN-BORN ANTHONY AFORDOFE, FOUNDER/CEO OF AKWENI PROJECT MANAGEMENT

When it was announced that Madiba had passed away, I was at home having my daughter’s third birthday party with kids and their parents. I was so devastated as he was my number one single icon and someone I really looked up to and wanted to emulate with my own life. I watched the funeral and documentaries and really felt we had lost a “saviour”, the Moses and Joseph type we read of in the Bible. I met Madiba at the Mthatha airport in 1996 when I was in high school. He

was greeting us as a bunch of students. His presence would radiate a room because he carried a spirit with him that is not common. To appreciate him is to appreciate sacrifice; he was a humanitarian and a determined man who fought for a country whilst losing his own personal life and family.

“To appreciate him is to appreciate sacrifice; he was a humanitarian and a determined man.....”

UGANDAN-BORN MONICA RUBOMBORA, DIRECTOR OF ACCENTURE

I was actually still working on my laptop late at night when I saw a “Breaking News” email flashing on my screen. I immediately tuned into one of the news channels. Thereafter, a few of our global employees in Europe and the US started sending me condolences messages directly – it was as if my relative had passed. Even though I was expecting his death, it still felt like someone had kicked me in the stomach. I took my children to view his body at the Union Buildings. We were in the

queue at 5am and yet we were never allowed in. I did not get to see him but I still felt a sense of relief that I was there. I first saw Madiba in the late 1990’s in Uganda. I was part of the crowd that lined up the streets to see him. I got goose-bumps on that day having studied South African history and read many books about him. All I can say is that he was a special man who had a lot of humility and used his stature to do a lot of good for humankind.

TAP COVER STORY

Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world. Nelson Mandela

adiba NIGERIAN-BORN WALE AKINLABI, FOUNDER OF AFRICA’S FIRST RADIOTV STATION (PLANET RADIO) I was in Nigeria on business when a partner came banging on my door screaming that Mandela had died. I stayed up all night watching the ongoing coverage on CNN. I wondered how the world would replace this man and how our leaders could learn from him. The memorial was brilliantly organised; having covered many events I must say that the organisation showed why SA is number one in Africa. I never met Mandela but I did a birthday special for Africa Magic in 2008

where we interviewed many people who owe things like low-cost housing and education to him. It is because of Madiba that I was able to leave Nigeria and come to SA and freely establish a business that today is flourishing.

“Having covered many events in my career, I must say the memorial was brilliantly organised...”

TANZANIAN-BORN SCHOLASTICA KIMARYO, CEO/FOUNDER OF MAADILI CONSCIOUSNESS LEADERSHIP

I was in Tokyo at SADC Conference when I heard the news. It was a shock although it was also expected. It was a historic moment, the passing of an icon of that level. I was really happy that the international community embraced him as they did. We came to the realisation that we have lost a great man and everybody came together to praise him regardless of country, colour or creed. I visited the home on a number of occasions following his passing to condole with his family. I was one of

the first few United Nations people to come and work here during the transitional period in the early nineties and therefore interacted with him on many occasions. As UNICEF’s first representative to SA, I worked closely with him as he was concerned about the situation of children and the price they paid for freedom. We also worked together in starting the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund and still support its activities alongside Graca Machel to this day.

NELSON MANDELA

HOW THE AFRICAN PRO’S WILL REMEMBER HIM

If there are dreams about a beautiful South Africa, there are also roads that lead to their goal. Two of these roads could be named Goodness and Forgiveness.

Ma Nelson Mandela

SOUTH AFRICA’S MIKE LLEDO, CEO OF CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL PLANNING

I heard the news of Mandela’s passing as I was driving early in the morning. I was deeply saddened by the loss of a great human being and a leader who despite having stepped back in the later years, was ever present. It was almost the end of an extraordinary era. I watched sections of the memorial service and other celebratory events. I do not recall a single person in history receiving the respect and accolades on such an emotive, culturally diverse and global basis as Madiba. I will

remember him as a man who changed the course of history, for generations to come, demonstrating humility, leadership, kindness, intelligence and perseverance, despite the challenges.

“I do not recall a single person in history receiving the respect and accolades on such an emotive, culturally diverse and global basis as Madiba...”

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RICHARD MALCOLM W.U. REGIONAL VP, SOUTH AND EAST AFRICA

ichard Malcolm’s working career began with a brief stint as a barman which he followed up with an apprenticeship in photolithography. “What is that?” you may ask. I did too when we sat at Western Union offices in Bryanston Johannesburg for this interview.

the valuable lesson that the march of technology should be embraced, not resisted.” On his way to becoming the Western Union Vice President for South and East Africa, Richard worked as a sales representative in the visual imaging industry in the late nineties. “I thoroughly enjoyed sales. It allowed me to connect with people

(UNISA). His academic background came in handy when he progressed to the position of General Manager of a Southern Africa distributor of digital imaging solutions. He later moved to Kodak South Africa developing their business in Southern Africa until joining the largest Kodak distributor in Africa where he was responsible for establishing their distribution infrastructure in Zambia.

“It is a lithographic printing “I left Zambia process using in 2006 to p h o t o g r a p h i c a l ly “What keeps me awake at night is the question join Western made plates,” he of whether or not we are doing the right thing Union after an explained. “It is not very common for Africa. We aim to innovate solutions that will intense seven anymore as the address the differing needs of Africans and it is the month interview process. I joined printing industry has Africans themselves and their creativity that will as country faced several changes manager for influence those solutions....” over the years. This Southern Africa is not unlike the responsible for operations and and exposed me to a host of different industry I am in now of money marketing. I subsequently became personalities,” he recalled. “Whereas transfer which only a few years back Senior Country Manager then Country I loved closing a sale, I learnt in the was a cash to cash process but today Director. In March 2012, I was asked three years I was in the role not to overrelies heavily on technology. to act as Regional Director for the commit and under-deliver and thereby ‘Digital’ displaced my Southern and East Africa region and lose credibility.” career early on was confirmed in my current position and taught later that year.” Richard has a Bachelor of m e Commerce undergraduate degree and a Richard is responsible for all aspects Bachelor of Commerce Honours postof Western Union across 21 countries graduate degree, both from the and operates out of Johannesburg. University of South Africa He admitted to enjoying getting

involved with the nuts and bolts of the world’s number one money transfer company which has been in operation for over 150 years. “I personally look after a number of countries namely Angola, Ethiopia, South Africa, Lesotho, Namibia and Eritrea. I have very capable colleagues and believe that I should lead them from the front. It helps a lot if they feel that they are supported on the ground and as such I travel a lot to meet and negotiate with our agents across the continent and particularly the territories I manage.” 24

A common expression “build it and they will come” is often attributed to the notion that an individual or entity can device a one-size-fits-all solution that consumers will have no choice but to adopt. Richard explained that this is a recipe for failure if applied to money transfer on the African continent. “What keeps me awake at night is the question of whether or not Western Union is doing the right thing for Africa. We aim to innovate solutions that will address the differing needs of Africans and it is the Africans themselves and their creativity that will influence those solutions. They will not pay for a service simply because you have rolled it out, they will pay for what works for them. That is what keeps us efficient and on our toes.” A good comparison of differing needs is the contrasting the situation in Angola to that of Ethiopia. In Angola, the country is currently very resource

driven given large oil deposits. It is a Portuguese speaking country that has in recent years seen a huge influx of expatriates owing to a shortage of skills to cope with its economic boom. It follows that there would be significant remittances by these expatriates to their countries of origin. The ACP Observatory on Migration organisation found that the Portuguese in Angola

send more remittances out of Angola than the Angolans themselves inward. “Contrast that with Ethiopia where the country is in the process of building the largest hydropower dam in Africa. As a result, the government is facilitating the shift of its citizens to destinations abroad for purposes of study and training to acquire skills to manage the power process once complete. The remittances of those abroad would therefore reflect a different direction flow from that of Angola. There are also other intricacies such as different naming structures which affects our work in identifying the intended recipient of a given money transfer.”

The challenge for Richard and Western Union is to bring something to the market that works for the customer. An important corridor is that of South Africa – Zimbabwe where the dollar is used as local currency in the latter country. A lobby group People Against Suffering, Oppression and Poverty (PASSOP) reported in late 2012 that an estimated 91% of Zimbabwean migrants to SA send money home regularly with approximately R7Bn having been remitted in the twelve months prior to the release of the report. “We are constantly thinking of and testing ways to enable such customers to send money both efficiently and cost-effectively. There are many challenges including compliance with stringent regulations and competing with the informal market.” On the question of managing people, Richard said that he finds this to be both an art and a science. “It is a process of ensuring that the whole is more than just the sum of its parts. I put my trust in the team and I am not a fan of micro-managing people because they achieve more when left to exercise their capabilities freely.” Richard confessed that reading rather than watching historical narratives is one of his preferred pastimes citing Hell In A Very Small Place: The Siege of Dien Bien Phu as one of his favourite reads. He is also a “foodie” and pin-points The Grazing Room in Dunkeld as his ideal dinner destination. KC ROTTOK

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DR. BISI ABIOLA

INTERVIEW WITH ENTREPRENEUR WIDOW OF LATE NIGERIAN MULTI-BILLIONAIRE

f you were a keen follower of African news in the nineties, you would probably remember Moshood (MKO) Abiola. MKO was a Nigerian billionaire and philanthropist who won his countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1993 presidential elections. The then military regime however refused to hand over power to him and instead detained him, drawing widespread international criticism. On the day of his release in 1998, he died in detention under suspicious circumstances.

MKO was a polygamist and various sources also speculate that his wealth was in excess of USD2 Billion, an amazing feat if one considers what that would be worth today. In the unforgiving humidity of Lagos in December 2013, African Professional magazine editor KC Rottok had the rare opportunity to meet and interview one of MKOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s widows who is the founder and editor of a wellness publication christened Indulge.

What is your academic background and early career path? After high school, I had this dream of becoming an envoy and traveling the world in diplomatic circles. I therefore pursued international relations as a university subject at Aberdeen University in Scotland followed by a Masters degree from Oxford University. I subsequently obtained a PHD from the London School of Economics. Towards the end of my studies I was

tired of books and being away from Nigeria so I returned in 1991 and got a job within the marketing arm of United Africa Company (UAC) which later became Unilever. I stayed with them for about a decade working in various parts of the world, accumulating knowledge and rising to the position of marketing manager. I left soon after the turn of the century to start “Indulge”.

Looking back, do you regret marrying a polygamous politician? I would still marry the same man but if I had a daughter I would advise her against marrying a polygamous man. The relationship was good but his death sparked madness with so many queuing up for his billions; there were claims from so many people, DNA tests, contesting of the will etc. I could not handle it and pulled away from it completely. The Abiola name has its pros and cons. It opens doors

me throughout and after I left Unilever in 2002, I published my first book on healthy living.

Indulge has five areas of operation including publishing which has published the books I have written as well as a bimonthly magazine distributed nationally in Nigeria. We also have a sportswear brand selling clothing and shoes. The third area relates to nutrition; we have a fruit cake that we sell here in Please describe your relationship Lagos. I also do consulting work with with the late MKO Abiola leading up various companies to his death. seeing as wellness “I would still marry the same man but if I had a improves staff I met MKO daughter I would advise her against marrying a p r o d u c t i v i t y . while I was Finally we host studying in London polygamous man...” events including when he showed the wellness awards an interest in me. and a feel good festival. as he was widely respected and many I shunned his advances; I was not empathize with what happened to interested in having a relationship with The business has had its highs him and his family. On the downside, a man twenty years older than me who and lows. Nigerians prefer gossip and many have these great expectations of already had several wives and children. celebrity magazines to wellness and me as his widow. They think I should But when I got back to Nigeria he the lack of electricity makes business be incredibly wealthy and living was steadfast in wooing me doing all costly. We have had to learn to cut costs extravagantly yet I am a simple person. manner of romantic things. I was young without compromising on quality. Kolajo (her only son now a university and single so I gave him a chance. He student in the UK) had a difficult time in may have been polygamous but he On the positive side we are the only primary and secondary school; teachers made me feel special, like I was the magazine dealing with wellness told him he should be as brilliant as his only one. We got married in 1992 and and have therefore established a dad and other kids bullied him. had a great relationship. The last time I niche for ourselves. We are also saw him was when he was in prison in fulfilling our mission; we can see It has been 11 years since you Abuja in 1997, he appeared calm and a change in perception towards started Indulge, what has been your said he was fine though I am sure he fitness and people are learning experience with the brand? was troubled by his incarceration. He that prevention is better than cure. consoled me because my father had just The health and wellness interest passed away and reaffirmed his love for KC ROTTOK was sparked in me as a student in me. We didn’t know it was the last time the UK. I was very chubby and read we would be seeing each other. material on healthy living. I became a vegetarian and applied various tips that helped me lose weight, my skin glowed and my energy levels improved. The passion for wellness remained in

MICHAEL SUDARKASA A PASSION FOR AFRICAN BUSINESS

ichael Sudarkasa was born in 1964 in New York City (of American and Nigerian parents) and raised by his mother and step-father in Ann Arbor, Michigan. For short periods during his childhood his family lived in Ghana, Nigeria and Benin. After attending Harvard Law School where he was classmates with Michelle Obama, he worked as a paid intern in Cote d’Ivoire in the Private Sector Unit of the African Development Bank, and later undertook postgraduate legal studies in France.

‘Sudarkasas’”, Michael revealed in an interview with TAP at his home in Fourways, Johannesburg.

ahead of our time seeing as internet penetration on the continent was still quite low in 2001.”

Africa Business Direct ceased operations but Michael was not deterred from continuing to facilitate business on the continent. He set up the Africa Business Group (ABG) in 2005, with a core focus on consulting, business media/ publishing, and business tourism/ knowledge event facilitation. ABG leverages Michael’s extensive international experience having travelled to 49 countries, 32 of which are on the M i c h a e l African continent. attributes his “Africa is definitely rising, although a greater “Our core passion for all consulting focus things “African” concerted effort is needed to develop, nurture to his mother’s and support entrepreneurship and indigenous isd e vone l oeconomic pment profound interest companies....” services and in the continent. business support. Like Madiba, Dr Our clients are primarily local, regional “The last straw was when the Miami Niara Sudarkasa was a recipient of and national governments in Africa and authorities refused to host Mandela an honorary degree from Fort Hare bilateral and multilateral development because he had been befriended while University, one of thirteen she received partners. Clients to date have included in prison by Fidel Castro. I decided during her career as an educator and the UNDP, IFC, GIZ, USAID, Gauteng to launch my firm in Washington anthropologist. She was the first Provincial Government, the City of D.C. where there was a large African African American full professor Johannesburg, NEPAD and the Welsh community and a lot of focus on within the Anthropology Department Assembly Government among others,” international and African affairs,” said at the University of Michigan, and he explained. Michael. later became the first woman to serve as President of Lincoln University in Our media focus is primarily on In 1999, Michael was recruited to Pennsylvania. producing “how to” publications, move to South Africa to assist in setting including The African Business up an infrastructure fund. The project “My mother has a great love for Handbook, The South African was unsuccessful but Michael decided Africa; in fact her affinity for the Exporters Handbook, and The South to stay on in Johannesburg as he found continent inspired her to change her African BEE Handbook. it to be a good base for his African name from Gloria Marshall to Niara ambitions. Sudarkasa. My children “Forthcoming titles include: the are actually the “African Union 500”, “A Newcomers “I initially teamed up with two first born Guide to South Africa” and “The other partners to set up Africa Business African Industrial Outlook”, added Direct, an aspiring online platform Michael. for intra-Africa trade. I think we were Michael’s undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan was in African history and for a brief period he practiced banking law in Miami. The routine of drafting bank loan agreements coupled with the absence in 1990 of any type of Africa focus in Miami pushed him to branch out on his own and establish a trade and investment consulting firm, 21st Century Africa, Inc.

The Group also promotes business tourism, produce knowledge events and facilitate training related to trade and investment in and with Africa.

“Key past initiatives have included developing and helping facilitate the Tshwane University of Technology African Policy Makers’ Workshop on Energy and Environment, the Joburg Shopping Festival (modelled after the Dubai equivalent), visits of Welsh business delegations to South Africa, the Nafcoc National BEE Week, the SA Local Economic Development Week and the NEPAD supportedImplementing Investment in Infrastructure Executive Dialogue series or I3ED.” Most recently, ABG has become active in supporting renewable energy and energy efficiency initiatives and the company enjoys a technical partnership with the Tshwane University of Technology Centre for Energy and Electric Power. Michael is also the project manager for the South Africa Solar Energy Technology Road Map which is a South African Department of Energy initiative. “Africa is definitely rising, although a greater concerted effort is needed to develop, nurture and support entrepreneurship and indigenous companies. The focus of most continental educational institutions is unfortunately still on producing employees rather than seeking to empower the continent’s youth to be

innovative and entrepreneurial.” Michael went on to state that Africa is a trillion dollar market with a billion people which has the potential to trade and invest with itself at all levels. “There is both the market and capital to take intra-continental trade and investment to the next level. This coupled with the fact that there is growing diaspora participation in the form of “brain gain”, as well as significant remittances from abroad

is very promising. Infrastructure challenges, urbanisation, and noninclusive economic growth remain big challenges though, but the continent is still in a very good position to support economic development and shared wealth creation for its citizens.” In support of achieving this end, ABG’s vision is to be a leading provider in Africa, of end-to-end economic development solutions by 2015. “It concerns me that many “experts” who comment and advise on Africa are non-Africans. We would like to build an organisation with a footprint in other

parts of the world that is exclusively focused on Africa. Establishing an international knowledge and development enterprise that facilitates and promotes African economic development and intra-regional trade, investment and global partnerships is ABG’s core aim. Realising this vision has become my life’s work.” Speaking of a life’s work, Michael indicated that he draws inspiration from the life and work of Nelson Mandela. “In the US in the 1990’s, many Christian youth took to wearing arm bands branded “WWJD” (What Would Jesus Do?) as a sign of reverence. I wrote an article after Madiba’s passing last year comparing the “46664” bracelet which bore his prison number to the WWJD arm band. I suggested that an appropriate leadership question for this and future generations wearing the 46664 bangle would be “What Would Mandela Do?” - given the incredible lessons we can learn from his life of forgiveness, determination and discipline”. Beyond his professional activity, Michael also noted that he is active in civic work in South Africa as the founding President of Alpha Phi Alpha, Inc. - Rho Phi Lambda Chapter, the 2nd African chapter of the oldest AfricanAmerican Greek letter fraternal organization. KEITH KUNDAI

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QUINTON ZUNGA

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF ARKEIN GROUP

he wise men come from the east,” Quinton Zunga quips when asked what part of Zimbabwe he hails from. He was born in Mutare in the Eastern Highlands of the country thirtysix years ago, the first born in a family of three children. After completing high school at St. Augustine’s, Quinton joined the University of Zimbabwe in 1999 to pursue business studies and computer sciences.

transition was pretty seamless for Quinton, given that his parents had already moved to Johannesburg where his father still manages an accounting practice.” Quinton progressed fairly quickly within the ranks achieving the title of divisional director at the age of twentyseven. He was Head of Debt Capital Markets at ABSA Capital responsible for eleven African countries, a role he assumed following the merger of ABSA

“Computing “He progressed fairly quickly within was the in thing achieving the title of divisional director back then,” he recalls. “But after of twenty-seven.....” graduating, I realised it wasn’t and Barclays. The role enabled him what I wanted to do with my life. It to help develop Africa’s Debt Capital was too technical and geeky for me; Markets and assist in the launch of the I couldn’t picture myself behind a first medium-term notes in Botswana, desk programming with little human Tanzania, Mauritius and Zambia. He interaction.” also led the issue of municipal bonds by the City of Johannesburg and Quinton changed paths and raised over USD2.0 billion in forty pursued a Masters in Finance via transactions that he was Lead Manager correspondence with the University of or Co-Lead Manager over his seven London. He was employed by Barclays years at Barclays. in Harare as a graduate trainee in the investment banking field. “In 2007, I heard that the executives at Bank of America Merrill Lynch “I worked in Barclays Harare (“BofAML”) were looking for a Head for two years before moving to the of Africa Capital Markets. The position company’s Johannesburg offices for appealed to me seeing as they were a a further five year period including bigger investment banking brand.” a year under the Absa Capital brand. Investment banking involved large and Quinton joined BofAML as a complex transactions unlike the retail director and Head of Africa Capital banking but I enjoyed it.” Markets responsible for South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa. In that role The move to South Africa was he was instrumental in developing as a result of the merger of Barclays’ BofAML’s Sub-Saharan Africa investment banking teams. The

business focusing on the regional hubs South Africa, Nigeria and Kenya. He helped in raising over USD1.5 billion in capital in these regions and built deep relationships that have proved important for his role at Arkein today. In 2011, Arkein Capital Partners (ACP) was formed following an approach from the Sishen Iron Ore Company Community Development Trust (SIOC-CDT), a community trust set up by Kumba Iron Ore. The mandate included applying the Trusts’ the ranks funds to economic at the age investments. ACP was formed as a management company/fund manager with Donovan Chimhandamba and Quinton Zunga holding 74.9 percent of equity and the Trust owning the balance. “We work well together as we combine different skills seeing as I have an engineering background and Quinton is a former investment banker,” said Donovan in a previous interview with this magazine. “Within 16 months of its formation, ACP had concluded deals worth ZAR1.2 billion including a ZAR521 million BEE deal for Basil Read, ZAR120 million acquisition of 32% shareholding in SA Airlink, ZAR215 million acquisition of 26% shareholding in Continental Coal and the construction of a Greenfields hotel called Urban Hotel Kathu.” Being practically his own boss has enabled Quinton to travel less and have more free time to spend with wife Rose (who he met at the University of

Zimbabwe) and their three children. He has also taken up golf and enjoys a regular weekly round with his Arkein colleagues.

“Those are just some of the benefits of co-founding Arkein. The banking industry was getting increasingly regulated which I did not particularly enjoy. Arkein was an entrepreneurial opportunity to be your own principal and thankfully with the financial backing of the Trust, there was an added benefit of not having to struggle in the initial stages. Many entrepreneurs start off with no salary and begin second-guessing themselves, we were lucky not to have that problem,” he explained. The Arkein leadership sought to diversify their operations and therefore set up Arkein International Limited chaired by Dr. Gil Mahlati with an office in Mauritius. It is a Pan-African investment holding company which seeks to invest in early stage projects within the mineral processing, oil and gas, and power and energy sectors. Currently, they have operations and are developing projects in South Africa, Zambia and Rwanda. The founding duo are still the majority shareholders in this company with the rest held by a number of

private individual South Africans, employees and international investors. “At Arkein, we are pursuing different types of deals to those that I was chasing in the investment banking environment. Here we are attending to principal investment deals whereas at the banks it was of more of capital and fund raising deals. We are investing to

extract a return while there we were raising money for a client to execute something for which we received a fee. Other than the Trust, we have our own portfolio for which we think on a more long-term basis.” Having travelled across the continent, Quinton believes that Africa is rising and has a lot of opportunities but it is a lot more difficult to execute them in other parts of the continent that it is in South Africa due to a lack of systems and regulation.

He battles to name the last book he read and does not make much of an attempt at naming a dream car. “I am a news junkie and read a lot of newspapers to keep abreast with what is going on. You never know what you would find useful in the news. I don’t have the patience to finish a book; the last title I skimmed through was Steve Jobs biography. I got the gist of it although I cannot say I read every page. Having trained as a banker, I think too much along the lines of the worth of each asset class. Cars depreciate faster than you can smile so I find them to be a waste of money. They are a class aspiration fixation that most people use to try and prove themselves to others. I don’t feel I have anything to prove to anyone.” KEITH KUNDAI

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LONG WALK TO FREEDOM

When the world heard of Mr Mandela’s death on the 5th of December 2013, schedules had to be reorganized. Small businesses and large organizations quickly set up posters displaying messages of condolences. The home pages of most websites were temporarily changed to exhibit images of Mr Mandela. Presidents and prominent leaders around the world sent out consolatory messages, relaying their support and solidarity with South Africans. Short documentaries capturing Mr Mandela’s life as an activist while enunciating farewell words momentarily replaced advertisements on TV and radio. Social media exploded with expressions of admiration for Tata Madiba (as he was fondly called by the masses). His death was felt across the globe, and more than simply mourning the loss of a great leader, it at times felt as if the world was celebrating his life and appreciating his contribution to humanity. Such a man is definitely worthy of our attention, and there is a wealth of information on his life. I recently walked into a bookshop, and was struck by the number of books associated with Mr Mandela. I counted more than fifteen different topics capturing the diverse aspects of his life (and that’s just what I could see). Over the past years, the world has been preoccupied with Mr Mandela’s legacy, and writers and publishers are cashing

in. “Long Walk to Freedom”, is one of his earliest works, written under his supervision. Published in 1995 and it won the Alan Paton award in the same year.

When it comes to Mr Mandela, almost everyone feels as if they “own” or know parts of his story. “Long Walk to Freedom” is an autobiography that allows us to put the bits and pieces of what we have heard or watched into one epic anecdote. Having recently inspired the successful (but not without its faults) production of a new motion picture Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, this autobiographical book is

probably the most accessible bestseller on Mr Mandela’s life. Mandela was raised in the traditional, tribal culture of his ancestors as the son of a chief, but was later harshly exposed to the modern, inescapable reality of apartheid. The first part of the book captures his early life as a child and an adolescent. His love for the land and culture is felt as he fondly relays his childhood memories. The second part addresses his political life, articulating social aspects of an oppressive regime and his thoughts, actions and theories about it. The style and structure of the autobiography is calculating and careful. For instance, he does not reveal much about life after his release, the negotiation process, or the campaign and election process. He also refrains from addressing in detail certain problematic aspects of his personal life, like divorcing the controversial Winnie Mandela: a leader who grew to become an archetype of idealism for female activists in Africa and beyond. Nonetheless, such silences simply reflect his human nature (and one may even argue is somewhat patriarchal). Arguably, his style of writing captures elements of his personality - disciplined, patient and organized. He does not rush through his story and vibrantly describes what he loved or found motivating and beautiful:

TAP Book-Review

necessity of having such books obtainable. This autobiography deliberately disassociates itself from narratives of hagiography. It is simply a remarkable account of an extraordinary man looking back and reflecting on his life experiences, divorcing myth from Mr Mandela’s life experience is truth and reality. To a large degree the sometimes draped in myth, hence the The words printed on the walls book humanizes a of the Apartheid man who has come Museum in “I have walked that long road to freedom. I have tried to be known as one Johannesburg not to falter; I have made missteps along the way. of the world’s most seem to have shaped Mandela’s But I have discovered the secret that after climbing moral and political significant leaders. perspective and a great hill, one only finds that there are many more purpose as a hills to climb. I have taken a moment here to rest, It is definitely a politician. “Take care not to steal a view of the glorious vista that surrounds book worth reading to be romantic or me, to look back on the distance I and re-reading! unrealistic. The Wanjiru Waichigo Njogu have come. But I can only rest object of most armed liberation for a moment, for with freedom movements is to… come responsibilities, and I bring them to the dare not linger, for my long negotiating table”. politics, the vegetation, the people, or his sport. It is therefore a long read, but the journey is informative, exhilarating, emotional and inspiring. He does not shy away from expressing his anguish, moments of weakness and mistakes.

is his ability to transcend beyond the bitterness and resentment one may feel toward a system and individuals who not only took away his freedom, but that of his family and his people.

walk is not ended.”

This was powerful advice given to Mandela in 1962 by Colonel Boumedienne of the Algerian liberation army. “Long Walk to Freedom” portrays Mr Mandela as a pragmatist and a shrewd politician never disillusioned by theories, or the romantics of liberation struggles across Africa. He knew the power of networking, of being part of a movement and dreaming of a world where white and black domination do not exist and eloquently expresses these views in the book. He also understood the messiness of the struggle, and goes to great lengths to explain this. But what is even more intriguing

WHY I HOPE MS PANDOR REMAINS DHA MINISTER AFTER THE ELECTION At the time of writing this article the final version of the Immigration Regulations were not yet published, but based on previous versions of the regulations, the following major changes can be expected. Holders of the intra-company transfer (ICT) work permit have always complained that the two year validity period of the permit is extremely short. It is expected that the duration will be extended. Another good move by the Department of Home

ith the General Election approaching, there are indications that Ms Naledi Pandor might not continue as the Minister of Home Affairs in the new cabinet. I am however of the opinion that it would be in the best interest of the Department as well as its customers for her to continue. However, although most people would be more than happy for her to retain her portfolio, she might long for another ministry. Since Ms Naledi Pandor took charge of the department a number of issues have improved when compared to her predecessor. Passports are now issued within one week, the roll out of the smart ID cards is gaining momentum, capacity constraints are being addressed and new immigration officials are being trained. The Immigration Regulations for the Immigration Amendment Act 2011 that have to date been “missing” were published at the beginning of February for public comment and it can therefore be expected that they will become effective before the general elections.

“Since Ms Naledi Pandor took charge of the department quite a few issues have improved when compared to her predecessor....” Affairs is that the rules governing the immigration of researchers and creative artists have been eased. This means it will be easier for both researchers and creative artists to gain access into South Africa and conduct their ‘business’. There has also been a significant change in the general attitude of supervisors in particular. Most are more responsive and make an effort to answer email enquiries. However, although improved, there is still a massive opportunity to improve even further. On the negative side, the enactment of the Immigration Amendment Act will abolish the Immigration Practitioner therefore opening up the industry to unregistered and untrained advisers. However, there are intentions to move towards creating a self-regulatory body. Additionally, we will most likely see a private company acting as the new front

TAP Immigration:

office of the Department in the future accepting immigration applications and ensuring that they are captured onto the new IT System. The tender for this has already been granted. Applications will however still be processed in Pretoria. Therefore, one has to wait and see whether the processing times and the quality of processing will actually improve. There are also serious intentions to decrease the paper based work and move towards a paper free application process in the future. The massive backlog in the Permanent Residence department which Ms Pandor inherited has largely been addressed and diminished, but is still far from being resolved. As a consequence of addressing the backlog in the Permanent Residence section, however, the processing times for temporary residence are unacceptably long now sitting at an average of two to three months. So, overall it is probably fair to say that Ms Naledi Pandor has had a positive impact on the Department, but it remains to be seen whether her successor will continue with the positive changes she started. Andreas Krensel is the owner and managing director of IBN Consulting in Cape Town. He is a qualified German attorney with an LLM from UCT and has been assisting foreign investors in South Africa for the past ten years. www. ibncapetown.com

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Never send a money transfer to someone you don’t know Never buy from sellers with poor ratings Be wary of sellers who ask you to send funds internationally Only make purchases through a reputable website and/or company Remember that Moneygram does not act as an escrow service for internet payments.

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WE TEACH GIRLS TO SHRINK THEMSELVES

I thought about the society that Not for jobs or for accomplishments hen Beyoncé’s latest agrees with them. - which I think can be a good thing album was released, But for the attention of men everyone raged about the I thought of my beautiful, successful We teach girls that they cannot be song “flawless.” As a lover of music friend who went on an amazing first sexual beings in the way that boys are I couldn’t resist a listen but try as I date that was never to be followed up might, I could not get past the “bow with a second because when her date Feminist: the person who believes down b*****” part of the song so I - who drives a Toyota Yaris - walked in the social Political, and economic left it alone. I figured to each his own. her to her car to find that she drove an equality of the sexes.” ~ Chimamanda And so it was, until my friend asked me S-Class Mercedes, that was the end of Ngozi Adichie whether I had listened to Chimamanda’s that. I sat in silence for a long while after part in the song. Chimamanda has been the song was finished. In that silence, I near the top of my favourite author list I thought of my friend - the from the time I read her book, playboy - whose answer to “Purple Hibiscus” a couple of “My beautiful, successful friend went the question “would you years ago. I could therefore on an amazing first date that was marry a woman who has not pass up an opportunity to hear what she had to say so I never to be followed up with a second been with as many men as you have been with women?” played the whole song for the because when her date - who drives was “Of course not! She first time and this is what I a Toyota Yaris - walked her to her would obviously be loose.” heard her say: How ironic I thought. “We teach girls to shrink car, he discovered that she drove an I thought themselves, to make S-Class Mercedes...” about themselves smaller.We say to t h e remembered my aunt’s response to my girls: “You can have ambition, But not fa c t plan to study for a Master’s Degree. too much “You are going to educate yourself You should aim to be successful, but right out of the marriage market,” she not too successful said. Otherwise you will threaten the man” Because I am female, I am expected to aspire to marriage I am expected to make my life choices always keeping in mind that marriage is the most important Now marriage can be a source of joy and love and mutual support But why do we teach girls to aspire to marriage and we don’t teach boys the same? We raise girls to see each other as competitors

I remembered my friend’s mother’s response after she listened to my friend and I excitedly plan when we would buy our first apartment. “If you buy a house now, you will scare off men who may want to marry you. They will see that you already have everything and move on.” I thought of the many exceptional women I know who have smashed through the glass ceiling in their fields of expertise who despite their mammoth success feel that they have failed without marriage.

that girls in many African countries are expelled from schools when they fall pregnant and are shamed as though they made that baby alone. I thought about the women who raise their children alone and the men who claim the lobola for work they did not do. I thought about the fact that when a husband cheats on his wife, many will say â&#x20AC;&#x153;he is just being a man. Forgive him. Just make sure he understands that this cannot become a habit.â&#x20AC;? Of course that last part is an optional extra. Some

men even give each other the proverbial congratulatory pat on the back when they discover the mistress is very attractive. I thought about the price a woman caught cheating on her husband would have to pay. Divorce and shame would be the minimum price even if he has done the same to her.

I thought about the fires of sexist bias in my culture that are diligently fanned not just by men, but by women. I thought about my niece and my nephew and I imagined how I would feel if my niece held herself back from success for the meagre price of a husband who can only feel big when she is small.

I thought of the women who endure pain beyond measure to avoid the stigma of being a divorcee: the ones who believe that it is better to endure a regular beating than to endure being a woman alone.

In that moment I confirmed what I have always known. I am a feminist. I believe in the social, political and economic equality of the sexes. CHIONESU SAKUTUKWA, twitter @chiovictoria

LERE MGAYIYA THE MILLIONAIRE SHOE-SHINER

n mid-2003, a young man in his late twenties took a seat at a cafe in Greenmarket Square, Cape Town. Lere Mgayiya had just dropped his wife off at her work-place and planned on spending the day at the square given that he could not afford the fuel needed to go home then return in the evening to fetch her. He paged through a newspaper while watching the crows chirp around a man who was shining a customer’s shoes. “Incidentally there was an article about this shoe-shiner in the newspaper which indicated that he made about

R4, 000 a month.” Lere recalled in an interview with TAP. “I found that to be a pretty tidy sum for a business that made most of its money during peak times. I knew that there was much more to be made in doing the same thing at a location that had consistent foot traffic like the Cape Town airport.” The idea excited Lere who had recently hit rock-bottom after his latest business venture, a public phone franchise, failed to take off. It was the tail end of a number of entrepreneurial failures since losing his job as a departure controller at South African Airways.

“I joined SAA after matric because I wanted to become a pilot. I did well in the sales department but lost interest when I was moved to operations and it was no surprise that I got fired. I had no regrets; besides the few flying lessons I got to take gave me the impression that it was a monotonous career and changed my mind about pursuing that line.” After SAA, Lere obtained what he calls his “practical MBA” as the general manager of his family’s livestock distribution business. A year later he started his own egg supply venture which eventually folded due to a lack of

Pic courtesy of L. Mgayiya

finance which compromised his ability to maintain optimum cash flow.

funds to buy the modest tools of his new trade.

His big break came in the form of the Sanlam Money Game in August 2002.

“I had no money and resorted to selling my TV and furniture to buy two chairs. I christened the business Airport Shoe-shine and had one employee. It was a tough start working in the same airport in full view of SAA employees, a few of whom were previously my subordinates at the airline.”

“It was an innovative TV show where three entrepreneurs were each given R30, 000 and after three days, the competitor with the highest profit would take home a cash prize. Nobody gave a township boy from Gugulethu with only a matric certificate to his name a chance against a couple of suits from Sandton.”

Despite having to literally get his hands dirty, Lere was determined to make his business work rather than take the easier route of finding a job. He developed a close relationship with his

bagged a R60, 000 cash injection which enabled him to increase his Cape Town airport presence to 15 chairs. “I tried on several occasions to get the attention of the decision-makers at the Airports Company of South Africa to open the doors of the Johannesburg, Port-Elizabeth and Durban airports to me. But many emails went unanswered. Then one day the CEO Monhla Hlahla flew to Cape Town and it was a privilege to shine her shoes.”

Monhla was impressed by the service and asked Lere to contact her directly when he explained his frustrations in To everyone’s pursuing a national surprise, Lere “We were doing well as a shoe-shine business but I deal. The rest as was the inaugural always thought we could do better. Then I read the they say is history winner reporting R18, 000 in profit. book Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki and with Lere’s shoeshine having It was a much that changed my perspective......” exclusive rights better performance at all of South than the other two Africa’s major airports. frequent customers who asked for him challengers neither of who managed by name and realised that it was the more than a thousand rand gain. Ten years on, the business has other personal touch that guaranteed repeat income streams including providing business. Renaming the business Lere’s “With the proceeds, I acquired a the service at events and branding their Shoe-shine was a no-brainer. stake in a local investment company. stands. The company has forty-two We had plans to do crude oil trading shoe-shiners and the founder says by “We were doing well but I always and I pursued an eight week certificate creating “more Leres” it has enabled thought we could do better. Then I course on the subject. But a decision him to have more time with his family read the book Rich Dad, Poor Dad by by the company to dispose of its nonand freed him up to conceptualise other Robert Kiyosaki and that changed my core assets left me out in the cold which business ideas. He is not ready to share perspective.” is how I ended up as my wife’s driver the details just yet but when he is, sitting at a cafe contemplating my next TAP will be there to cover yet another The concept of multiple incomes move.” success story from this modest grass to was the most important lesson Lere grace entrepreneur from Gugulethu. took from the book. He set out to Lere approached the NYDA (then increase the number of chairs he had. known as Umsobomvu Youth Fund) KC ROTTOK No stranger to contests, he entered the for assistance. They helped him draft South African Breweries Kick-start a business plan which he successfully competition and made the short-list pitched to the Cape Town airport. With of thirteen from 1540 entrants. He the deal in place, he needed to raise

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WHAT HAPPENS IN VEGAS STAYS THERE

TAP TRAVEL

(UNLESS YOU READ THIS ARTICLE)

“Y

ou haven’ been to Vegas...? Meeeen.... you gotta go to Vegas!” This was one of the first things I was asked on my first day in Los Angeles. Ugandan friends in LA had also told me about it and I had good images of

beauty as I saw on arrival. The place is a splendid wonder and the application of light-engineering is magnificent. As I had been earlier informed, night and day are reversed in Vegas and true to this, the place was bustling

restrict ‘happiness’ elsewhere don’t seem to apply in Vegas. Drinking on the street is permissible and being drunk is a good indication of one’s enjoyment of the place. In good restaurants that I have been to in South Africa, although one finds a notice asking people to wait

Las Vegas from one of John Travolta’s movies so I was keen to see this place. Later that week, courtesy of my hosts Lawrence and Amanda Harmon, we set off on a four hour drive to spend the weekend in Vegas. If anybody wants to give you the shock of your life, they should get you to Vegas at night. Meeeeen, I wasn’t ready for what I saw when we got to there. I had never seen such a glorious display of night

with activity that evening. Las Vegas Boulevard, commonly known as ‘The Strip’ along which luxurious hotels and casinos are lined seemed like day time despite the fact that it was just minutes past midnight. We checked into our hotel and for the next two days I explored this bastion of obscene pleasure and indulgence. Everybody in Vegas seems to be happy 24/7 and most of the rules that

to be seated, we usually walk ourselves straight to the tables if we spot an empty seat. In Vegas, as I noticed at all the restaurants I went to in California, one has to wait to be seated. As we stood in a restaurant queue that morning, one of the two ladies behind us requested that we allow them to get to the front of the queue because her friend was too drunk. In Vegas, such a request is perfectly understandable. shutterstock.com

there was a shooting at a top hotel on compact place as I have seen in Vegas. Now to the real business of Las The Strip. We learnt of this through In one area, Donald Trump set up his Vegas - gambling. There are gambling Facebook because in Vegas people hotel and bought the neighbouring machines and tables at every turn. are too happy to notice anything like a ones. He knocked them down to create All hotels have entire bottom floors shooting. I was also told that if one wins extra space for his establishment. dedicated to 24-hr gambling and people big, they have to be careful as some Lawrence is particularly unhappy never sleep. But that’s not all, even people have been followed in parking because his favourite hotels was one restaurant tables have gambling cards lots or as they drive out of Vegas. of those ‘erased’ by Trump, hence the that one can play while eating. If one reason we ended up at Treasure Island thinks they will avoid slot machines Driving from Vegas back to LA right opposite. at the hotels, take heart-you will find after determining that we’d seen enough them at the filling stations and in sin, the traffic was very heavy on the The majority of the people found supermarkets in case you discover that road as is usually the case on Sunday along The Strip are visitors to Vegas. you have some spare change off your evenings. There was a particular slow Their emotional state when they leave fuel or shopping. Gambling is big time car at one point in the fast lane and I told Vegas depends upon what they engage business for Vegas. I’m told that in his Lawrence that had it been South Africa, in. They could be very happy, very campaign, Obama made some remarks we would flash him about the morality with our lights until of places like Vegas “One sign along Las Vegas Boulevard reads he moves away. and almost lost ‘Before coming, consult your doctor. Before Amanda remarked Nevada, the state that in California, in which Vegas is leaving, consult your psychiatrist.’ ....” that would be an located. offence and if the other driver reports angry or very depressed. One sign along it, a ticket would be issued. Lawrence Las Vegas Boulevard reads “Before Pleasure overflows in Las Vegas, added that being reported to police is coming, consult your doctor. Before and so does ‘sin’. No wonder it’s the softer part - the other driver can stop leaving, consult your psychiatrist.” dubbed the sin city of America. and shoot. Billboards, branded cars and adverts in Shew, you have to give it to Vegas! shopping corridors advertising ladies They say what happens in Vegas They’ve got drive-through weddings..... that can be delivered to your room are a remains in Vegas but I felt tempted to Yes, drive-through weddings. Just like more common sight in Las Vegas than divulge a few of its secrets. Meeeen, when one drives to a KFC, stays in the the Coca Cola adverts on TV during I promise next time I won’t open my car and drives off with their food, in a soccer world cup. All bear pictures mouth. Vegas a couple will drive to a marriage of barely dressed ladies. At night in centre, remain in their car and drive the hotel corridors one finds cards of STEPHEN TWINOBURYO, Twitter @stwino away married with a legal certificate in topless or fully naked women with hand. Hotels too have marriage chapels. telephone contacts and the fees they By the way, isn’t this the place they say charge. All this is perfectly normal in Britney Spears went to party and woke Vegas. up married without remembering where she met her husband? I can’t blame her. In all this, there is an immense Anything and everything is possible in display of wealth, both in infrastructure Vegas! setup and in the amounts that people spend. Well, I have not travelled Of course all is not happiness much but I surely have not seen such as portrayed. The night we arrived, luxurious and massive hotels in one

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EDUCATION AND POVERTY

have had a very interesting start to my year. In exactly one week, I pack a suitcase or two along with my laptop and head back to Accra on a six month work contract. A very daunting yet exciting prospect. Daunting because I have not lived in Ghana since I was seven. Exciting, because well it’s a whole new adventure.

garbage collection isn’t as frequent or the infrastructure when it comes to ablution facilities is not comparable to that in Sandton. Which brings me to my topic of conversation. There is the World Economic Forum gathering this week, where all the ‘well to do’ people of this world (Oxfam reports that 85 of the world’s richest have as much wealth as ALL of the world’s poor)

The Last Word

of poverty. The average household income in the areas from whence these kids hail is roughly R4000 ($400)/ month. An average household consists of five people, you do the math. It is impossible for them to afford university fees ranging from R18000 ($1800) to R49000 ($4900).

They can’t get a loan because no On Tuesday, I was having a one has collateral. Add this to the fact conversation with a friend about my that many of these kids have a mother disgust at how people can (if they are lucky) tearing leave their homes(Alexandra “The biggest difficulty in terms of herself to shreds, trying to Township for example), provide for the family and undoing the cycle of poverty is that an absent father. Who is travel to the “boss’s” home the poor cannot afford the education going to ingrain in them which is their place of work (e.g. Sandton) and return to needed to help them out of their the importance of a good the litter-filled environment education? I remember situation…” that I seem to encounter in growing up and coming home my infrequent visits to the proud as a bean, with my 90% area. My friend studied political and for a test and my father asked me what meet to discuss the plight of the poor, social sciences so our training is very happened to the other 10%? amongst other things. The theme for different and this was evident in our this year’s gathering is “The reshaping understanding of the situation. In as Going to school is one thing, but of the world: Consequences for society, much as I claim to be open minded, I the quality of the education received is politics and business”. I guess it’s the am a 1+1=2 kind of person. However, another. I’m sure many out there, like world order as it has always been. when underpinning socio-economic myself are of the opinion that educating issues are brought our youth will go a long way to solving One of their topics of conversation to my attention, many issues of poverty. Home support was income inequality. This casts my I realise that it structures are also a necessity. mind to a trust (www.smyle.co.za) that is not that cut a friend set up a few years ago with and dried. Going to school and someone the intention of helping a group of For instance, telling you don’t throw that piece of talented kids, firstly stay and excel in perhaps there paper there, or doing condensation/ school and hopefully make something aren’t as many dissection practicals in a science lab of their lives, and secondly, share their dustbins per sure does go a long way in broadening musical talents with the world, thus person in Alex one’s mind and learning that actions earning funds to sustain their schooling as there are in have consequences. ambitions. It has been a long slog Sandton. but last year through an extra class Perhaps, program, 23 of their grade 12’s have YAW PEPRAH Yaw Peprah is a self employed entrepreneur t h e been accepted into university. Now herein lies the biggest difficulty in terms of undoing the cycle

pursuing interests in business advisory, consultancy and commodity brokering. www.asitissoitis.blogspot.com Twitter - @yawzie

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