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Issue M050
GONORRHOEA On the rise ‘MABROTI’ Husbands UN Projects FGM TO END 2030
Golden Jubilee Edition Supplement Pages 4 - 7
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Editor’s Welcome
Contents
In an age where humanity scales remarkable peaks of scientific achievement yet simultaneously seem to be entangled in a web of misinformation and irrationality, one can’t help but ponder the paradox: How does the same species that engineered vaccines to combat a global pandemic in record time also give birth to an ever-swirling gyre of fake news, medical quackery, and conspiracy theories? I refuse to surrender to the cynical view that humans are merely irrational creatures, primitive remnants in modern times, burdened by innate biases, fallacies, and delusions. This species, after all, has unravelled the laws of nature to its own benefit. Our thinking, innately adapted for the low-tech scenarios that have historically encompassed our existence, often falls short of incorporating the sophisticated tools of reasoning we’ve cultivated over the millennia. Yet, here we are in 2023, still grappling profoundly with controlling STDs, as evidenced by the troubling surge in Gonorrhoea cases. Dive into the insightful coverage on Pages 16-17 and 48-49, where you’ll find an in-depth look at how the NHS and Mojatu Foundation are joining forces to combat this epidemic in Nottingham. So arises the essential quandary: how do we navigate the terrain of rationality and its antithesis? Though these challenges intimidate, solutions are within reach, and our collective intellect is more than capable of unlocking them. Ironically, one of our most daunting tasks is persuading the public to embrace the very solutions designed for their benefit. Marking a significant milestone, this edition celebrates the Golden Jubilee of our magazine. I want to invite you to explore Pages 4-7 for a nostalgic journey since our inception. Additionally, don’t miss our special feature on the UKZimbabwean ‘MaBroti’ Husbands on Pages 32-33, alongside many captivating stories.Compiling this golden jubilee edition has been nothing short of a delightful journey, and I’m thrilled to present it to you. Here’s to curiosity, reason, and the relentless pursuit of truth. Peter Makossah Group Editor-in-Chief peter.makossah@mojatu.com
News and Sports Golden Jubilee Suppliment......................................... 4 UN Projects FGM to end by 2030.............................12 ‘Upskirting’ Crimes Surge...........................................19 Sangare thrilled to be a Red......................................24 Community Penny Cooper: Community Champion.................27 Free Vitamins for Pregnant Women........................29 ‘Mabroti’ Husbands in UK...........................................32 Broxtowe win Five Green Awards............................35 Arts and Culture Nottingham Carnival 2023.........................................38 Remembering 2Pac......................................................41 Africa Fashion Week Returns.....................................47 Health and Food STDs Rise in UK...............................................................48 New Covid Strain Looming........................................52 Dementia’s Silent Alarm..............................................54 Business and Finance UK House Prices fall......................................................61 Education and career Food Costs Hit Nottingham Schools......................57
Cover Tarze Edwards-Small Mojatu Media Disclaimer The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publishers. Every effort has been made to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the publisher cannot take responsibility for errors, omissions, nor can we accept responsibility for the advertisements or editorial contributions.
Editorial
Group Editor-in-Chief: Peter Makossah Sales & Marketing | Community Engagement Copy Editor: Penny Cooper: penny@mojatu.com Abdoulie Jah - jah@mojatu.com Community Journalist: Julius Mwangi: julius@mojatu.com Amanda Duke - marketing@mojatu.com Design: Robert Borbely - robert@mojatu.com Edwin Ubah - eddy@mojatu.com Photos: Seif-El-Deen Abushkhaidem, www.freepik.com Social Media: Amanda Duke - marketing@mojatu.com Contributors: Angela Wathoni | Amanda Makossah Getting the magazine: Online @ www.mojatu. Saida Barbar | Julius Mwangi |Ann Waruga com|magazines Subscription @ £24 per year with postage Accounts: Thierry Karume - accounts@mojatu.com Address: Howitt Bld, Lenton Blvd, Nottingham, NG7 2BG Admin: Penny Cooper - penny@mojatu.com Tel: 0115 8457 009 | 0751 6962 992 | 0751 366 1176 News & Comments: news@mojatu.com Facebook: www.facebook.com|mojatu Twitter: www.twitter.com|mojatumedia Printers: Mojatu Media
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MOJATU MAGAZINE CELEBRATES JUBILEE EDITION WITH FONDEST GREAT MEMORIES - By Peter Makossah
Deeply spurred by the impulse to serve and transform communities and individuals through health, media, training, and community engagement initiatives to enable the people to tackle issues affecting them, Mojatu Foundation established a community Magazine to inform, educate and entertain the masses some yonks ago. Mojatu Magazine was birthed in 2011 with a concentrated catchment area within Nottingham and Nottinghamshire with a small circulation and the idea for producing and publishing the magazine was simple; to provide the local community with an indispensable magazine full of relevant, local, community-centred, and soughtafter information.
importantly, the magazine has had to be useful to the targeted readers from within Nottingham and beyond. Very quickly, Mojatu Magazine became one of Nottingham’s best local community publications and has since then been at the very heart of the community it was devoted to serve with dedication and sheer commitment. Distributed free of charge across the city and the county, Mojatu Magazine has tremendously grown since inception and has increased its readership and it is free to subscribe to; the publication also gives advertisers the opportunity to target business owners and decision-makers through this professional, trusted, well read and longestablished Magazine - both online and in print.
Wanting a solid balance of both interesting content and advertisements from local businesses, most With this issue, Mojatu Magazine is celebrating its Golden Jubilee 50th edition.
Nottingham connected Headquartered in Nottingham, Mojatu Group of Magazine is a community is one the most vibrant and illustrious freely distributed publication in the United Kingdom and published in five cities including Derby, Berkshire, London, and Nottingham.
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SPECIAL TRIBUTE
In this incredibly special 50th issue, we pay tribute to our distinguished designer, Robert Borbely, a respected media connoisseur, who has been there from the very beginning and has stood the test of time through the many years of producing Mojatu Mojatu Magazine is aspirational yet attainable, Magazines. stylish, and free of charge. Robert Borbely is the brains and the engine This chunky issue is more than a magazine and is room behind the Magazine’s beautiful guise split into categories and we hope you will treasure and professional semblance. He is more than a this issue for years to come, displaying it in your magazine designer, he does more. There is nothing office or home, and keeping it nearby for regular that he cannot design. bursts of inspiration! Currently, Mr. Borbely is singlehandedly responsible for designing all the Mojatu Magazine Vote of thanks issues namely Nottingham, Derby, London and This 64-page celebratory and indulgence Golden Berkshire magazine editions and all media-related Jubilee edition celebrates everything that we love publications such as leaflets, info-packs, reports and support - community championing, health and many more. living, small independent businesses, inspirational people, beautiful photography, and carefully In an interview, Mr. Borbely, said: “I Am happy to be crafted words and creative and imaginative, citizen part of this great project. Celebration, longevity, and reflection are at its core as we mark 12 years of and solution journalism. independent publishing.” Also, we pay tribute to the man behind the establishing of the magazine, founding Group “As I reflect back on what has been an amazing 12 of Editor Frank Kamau for his vision and wisdom to doing what I truly love, I hope it inspires our readers to believe in their own dreams and creative goals.” put in place such a vibrant publication. In the same vein, we giver honour to the first Managing Editor, Valentine Nkoyo who unfortunately is no longer with us as she transitioned to heaven to be with her maker. In a special way, we give thanks to from Managing Editor for the Nottingham Magazine, Pa Modou Faal for his immense contribution to the publication during his time of service. Special vote of gratitude goes to the Derby Magazine Managing Editor-cum-deputy Group Editor, Jamie Morris and Community Journalist, Trista Best; Nottingham Magazine Copy Editor, Penny Cooper and Community Journalist and IT expert, Julius Mwangi; London Magazine Managing Editor, Omar Mohammed, and Community Journalist Saida Egeh, Berkshire Magazine Managing Editor Cecily Mwaniki and Editor Raveena Hagun and all the content writers and contributors for the hard work. On a very special note, we salute our sales, marketing and community engagement specialists, Abdoulie jah, Amanda Duke and Edwin Ubah for their highest quality of service delivery. For this journey, we owe it all to you, our esteemed dear readers, for your unwavering support.
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THE JOURNEY SO FAR - 50 ISSUES ON - By Staff Writer
As one of the greatest thinkers, a semilegendary ancient Chinese Taoist philosopher, Lao Tzu said; “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step,” we took the first step some 15 years ago equipped only with hope and determination.
the UK being the limited or negative coverage of these communities by most mainstream media, the limited number of African migrants working in the media sector and the need for platforms and opportunities to showcase and amplify constructive voices of these communities. Nearly 15 years on, Mojatu Magazine has accomplished the Mojatu Magazine was founded in 2009 mileage of publishing 50 issues in Nottingham and in London, UK, as a print version aimed subsequently launched other sister Mojatu Magazine at amplifying authentic voices of African publications in Derby, London, and Reading. communities living in London and the UK.
At that point, it was aimed at addressing the three In addition, we have recruited, trained, and major challenges identified by African migrants in supported over 25 journalists from African and
Nottingham connected migrant backgrounds but it has been difficult to retain and sustain these individuals in our employment due to limited resources. Also, we have mentored hundreds of university and college Journalism, Communications and Media students, who we have been recruiting on a tenweek placement over the 15 years that we have been in existence. Nevertheless, we have been focused and are consistent in sourcing and amplifying authentic community voices. We are also working towards launching Mojatu Magazines in Gambia, Kenya, and Somalia. We envisage that as we celebrate 25 years, which is a decade from now, we will have launched and implemented a successful recruitment and retention strategy aimed at enhancing diversity of voices in the media sectors in the UK and beyond. We also believe we will become fully digital first while increasing the income generation options of the magazines through local partners to guarantee amplification of authentic voices, growth, and sustainability of Mojatu Magazine. This will ensure our core focus of capturing, storing, and amplifying authentic community voices while enabling them to access opportunities better and address issues affecting them more effectively is continually accomplished. As it is with every journey, we at Mojatu, continue to aim for the sky, we may be moving slowly, but we sure are hopeful that we will get there in the end and we are enjoying every step along the way.
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POLICE CAPTURES DRUG DEALERS DURING HOUSE RAID, FIND MANY STACKS OF CASH - By Julius Mwangi Two heroin and crack cocaine dealers were inadvertently captured by the police while they were carrying out a house raid in Sneinton Boulevard, Sneinton in Nottingham.
order, ahead of the pair’s showed he was not a child. sentencing at Nottingham Crown “I have now put additional Court in August. protection on all devices and Emakpor, of Cornmill Road, parental watch controls, so I get Sutton-in-Ashfield, was notifications of new followers. I sentenced to two years and three think social media should allow Jamie McElvaney and Greg months, while McElvaney, of you to do this up the age of 17,” Emakpor were inside a house, Bridgeway Court, The Meadows, she added. when they were surprised by was jailed for two years and two officers. months and handed an indefinite restraining order. Police had been executing a warrant at the address after Detective Sergeant Mark receiving reports of violence and Kimberley, of Nottinghamshire other criminal activity when they Police, said: “As McElvaney and ran into the duo. Emakpor have both found out to their costs, the supply of Class At that point a search was carried A drugs is an extremely serious out of the house, which quickly offence that brings with it serious led to more than 30 wraps of consequences. drugs being discovered that were later identified as a mix of heroin “Illicit substances like heroin and crack cocaine deals. and crack cocaine literally ruin people’s lives by putting users of Thousands of pounds in cash these drugs on a negative path was also found in a room where that many of them struggle to Emakpor had been sleeping, ever get off. while a phone was discovered during the raid that contained “By making the conscious multiple messages referencing decision to sell these drugs in our the supply of drugs. communities for financial gain, both McElvaney and Emakpor The messages showed the will have been very aware that drugs as being supplied from what they were doing was wrong January 2023 until the day of and the damage it could cause.” the warrant, with discussions between two people - later found In an interview with Mojatu to be Emakpor and McElvaney - Magazine, a dad of a 10-year-old focusing on the cash raised from boy said: “Given the prevalence of drug sales and their plans to sell technology it is crucial for parents more. to keep an eye on and control their kid’s online behaviours.” Emakpor, 18, and McElvaney, 37, were both charged with two Said another parent, a mother of counts of being concerned in the a 13-year-old girl: “My daughter supply Class A drugs - charges was approached through a game they both later pleaded guilty to by a stranger pretending to be a in court. 14-year-old boy and then gave him her social media account McElvaney also admitted to details where their conversations breaching a non-molestation
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HACKERS TARGET ONLINE GAMERS DUE TO CYBER SECURITY LAPSES - By Peter Makossah
Computer gamers must improve their cyber outdated community mods to spread malware and security to mitigate the risk of hackers accessing hijack game servers.” their online accounts, the Nottinghamshire Nottinghamshire Police cyber protect officer Kirsty Police have warned. Jackson said: “A lot of game distributors will not With sixty percent of UK adults playing video games on offer support if you have been using third party console, desktop or smartphone devices, the gaming services to commence trades and link your accounts industry has increasing come under attack from hackers. as these falls outside of their terms and conditions. Nottinghamshire Police is encouraging gamers to “It’s important that you are cautious when using take a few simple preventive steps to make it harder these services especially if another player ask you for cyber criminals to access their data. to sign up to these services. Genuine online services won’t require that you complete a trade to be able It comes following a rise in reports of online to login to those platforms or ask you to give your accounts being hacked, with victims losing 2-step verification code to anyone else.” thousands of pounds as a result. However, the police advises that empowering parents In one case, a Nottinghamshire-based gamer lost Children’s online safety is a shared responsibility more than £2,000 while another victim elsewhere even in a world with greater online regulation and in the East Midlands lost £10,000. more responsibility lying with platforms, schools and Criminals have been exploiting out-of-date mods parents will still have an important role to play. across the country, leading to devices being Added Kirsty: “We start by considering conversations compromised with malware and accounts being in general, before looking into conversations hijacked and digital assets lost. happening in response to harm and in encouraging The growing threat has led to Nottinghamshire news, conversations around online safety take place Police cyber protect team encouraging gamers to regularly amongst parents makes a difference. follow expert advice issued by the National Cyber Data shows that families receiving free school Security Centre. meals have had a conversation more recently than The police said: “To prevent your gaming account others: nearly half (49%) say their last conversation being hijacked, you should keep your devices and was within the previous month, compared to four in applications up to date. This will help prevent these ten (41%) of those not receiving free school meals. attacks from being successful. Just 5% of parents of children receiving free school “Make sure that community mods that you may meals say that their most recent conversation was have installed are also up to date as researchers more than six months ago, compared to 15% of have found an increase in cyber criminals exploiting other parents.
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NOTTINGHAMSHIRE LANDLORD CONVICTED OF UNLAWFUL EVICTION, FINED OVER £5,000 - By Peter Makossah
A Nottinghamshire landlord with keys when requested by the has been ordered to pay £5,312 tenant and Council officers. for unlawfully evicting his The majority of renters in tenant of 18-months. residential properties are On 5 April 2023, Bassetlaw protected by the Protection District Council’s Environmental from Eviction Act 1977. This law Health Team were notified that requires landlords to follow the the Housing Needs department correct legal process to evict had been approached by their tenants which usually an individual that had been requires that the tenant is served wrongfully evicted from their notice before a possession order private-rented home in Worksop, is sought from the Courts. by their landlord Mr Sunjeet A possession order, if granted, Dubb of Laghourton, Lincoln. can only be carried out by Court Mr Dubb attempted to pressure Bailiffs. his tenant into ending their tenancy on 19 March 2023. By Mojatu Magazine understands 30 March he had changed the that on April 25 this year, Mr locks to the property, leaving Dubb attended the Council for his tenant with nowhere to an interview under caution and stay and without access to that he failed to follow the correct their belongings, including legal process to evict his tenant and along the way broke the law medication. by changing the locks on the Mr Dubb refused to change the property without giving his tenant locks back or provide the tenant notice and obtaining a possession
order through the Courts. The outlaw landlord pleaded guilty to the offence after attending Mansfield Magistrates Court and he was ordered to pay a £233 fine, £89 victim surcharge, £668 contribution to costs and £4,322 B&B charge to repay the Council the cost of the accommodation, which had been provided. Cllr Jonathan Slater, Cabinet Member for Housing and Estates said: “It is vital that landlords are aware of their responsibilities and act in accordance with any relevant laws. “The Council contacted Mr Dubb in an attempt to rectify the issue before it progressed, but to no avail. Had Mr Dubb followed the correct process, the tenant would have had much more time to find alternative accommodation and may not have become homeless.”
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NOTTINGHAMSHIRE MAN SWINDLED £120,000 IN A FAKE INVESTMENT SCAM - By Julius Mwangi Police in Nottinghamshire are warning people to be wary of granting remote access to their devices after victims of a fake investment scam were left on the hook for huge bank loans.
“We are helping them submit claims for the loans to be written off, but there are no guarantees and so the best way to protect yourself is to be vigilant of such scams.”
The victims - including one man who was taken for Other remote access scams start with a browser nearly £120,000 - were first lured in by flashy adverts pop-up appearing on a would-be victim’s phone or and pop-ups for an online investment scheme. computer warning them that their device has been infected with a virus. After initially seeing promising returns, they were each persuaded to take out bank loans to fund Alternatively, it could be a phone call from an additional investment. individual claiming to be from their bank insisting they urgently need access to their device to cancel a It is at this point that the scammers struck - convincing fraudulent transaction. the victims to grant remote access to their phones, computer and tablets to help guide them through The victim is then persuaded to download and the application process. connect to a remote access tool that the imposter says is required for them to deal with the problem. But The victims’ details were then used to secure multiple once the fraudster has gained access to the person’s loans, with the online scammers then transferring the mobile or computer, they can then access private funds into their own accounts and disappearing. banking details and steal money. The Nottinghamshire victim, a man in his 20s, was left Kirsty added: “While remote access tools are safe when liable for six loans totalling £118,500 - money that he used legitimately, we want the public to be aware that will now have to pay back. they can be misused by criminals to commit fraud. Another victim, a woman in her 60s, also from It’s important the public understand that legitimate Nottinghamshire, fell into £24,000 of debt in similar organisations will never contact you out of the blue requesting remote access to your device. circumstances.
“No matter what is said, remote access scams all have the same thing in common - the scammer will Kirsty Jackson, a Cyber Protect Officer at always ask you to type something into your browser Nottinghamshire Police, urged people to be vigilant. or request you to download a remote access tool in She said: “These online investment scammers pose order to grant them access to your device. as legitimate companies with hundreds of positive reviews, so it can be very easy to become a victim. Profound Impact
Ms Jackson added: “It is therefore extremely important that people only grant remote access to their mobile phone, iPad, laptop or computer if they are asked by someone they know and trust, such as a friend or family member. The Cyber Protect Officer warned that people must never grant remote access to their devices as a result of an unsolicited call, browser pop-up, or text message. “The consequences of doing so can be devastating. These scams have had a profound impact on their victims as the banks have now insisted on the loans being paid back,” Ms. Jackson said.
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UN PROJECTS FGM TO END BY 2030 - By Peter Makossah
Nothing, they say, lasts forever.
performed by health personnel pointing to an alarming trend in the medicalization of female Prolific poet and writer, as Sanober Khan once aptly genital mutilation. said; “ The magic fades too fast, the scent of summer never lasts, the nights turn hollow and vast, but In its quest to end FGM, a humanitarian organisation nothing remains, and nothing lasts,” everything that champions zero tolerance on the deleterious that starts ends. and injurious practice, Mojatu Foundation works with FGM survivors and communities affected by The Mumbai-based penpusher, Sanober Khan, FGM in safeguarding girls and women at risk of may have Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in mind FGM and supporting survivors. when she made these remarks because this nasty ‘hu-wo-man’ tragedy will soon be history in the The Nottingham-based Charity, Mojatu, engage next seven years. FGM individual survivors, communities and other partners and stakeholders in raising awareness and FGM, like any bad practice, will not last forever and tackling FGM, in the UK and Internationally who in the time to bin it - just as in nature, not every tree doing this, they adopt the formidable strategies lasts forever - and every stream flows until the end of and models to banish the evil practice. time, as the world changes, nature changes with it. In an interview Mojatu Foundation FGM project The United Nations (UN) aims to put to an end FGM manager, Saida Barbar said: “We have just got about by 2030, which is just around the corner. six years to go before 2030 and we must double our In 2023 alone, there are 4.32 million girls around efforts in order to make sure that we achieve the the world who are at risk of undergoing female UN Sustainable Development Goal number 5 by genital mutilation. and significant opposition rates the targeted timeframe. to female genital mutilation among men and boys Added Ms. Barber: “However, sustaining these are evident in countries such as Eritrea, Ethiopia, achievements in the face of humanitarian crises Guinea, and Sudan. such as disease outbreaks such as the global Around 1 in 4 girls and women, or 52 million Covid-19 pandemic, climate change, armed worldwide, experienced female genital mutilation, conflicts and more could cause a rollback of
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progress toward achieving gender equality and the Significant opposition rates to female genital elimination of FGM by 2030.” mutilation among men and boys are evident in countries such as Eritrea, Ethiopia, Guinea, and The Mojatu Foundation project manager said with Sudan. just six years remaining in this decade of action, there is potential in eliminating FGM through This year, the UNFPA-UNICEF Joint Programme sustainable partnerships with men and boys. on the Elimination of Female Genital Mutilation: Delivering the Global Promise launched the “Their voices and actions can transform deeply 2023 theme; “Partnership with Men and Boys to rooted social and gender norms, allowing girls transform Social and gender Norms to End FGM”. and women to realize their rights and potential in terms of health, education, income, and equality,” This year, UNFPA and UNICEF call on the global she emphasised. community to partner with men and boys and foster their engagement to accelerate the UN springing action elimination of this harmful practice and uplift the Although the practice has been around for more voices of women and girls. than a thousand years, there are myriad reasons Varying initiatives have been employed by to think that female genital mutilation could end organizations around the world to engage and in a single generation hence the UN is vigorously partner with men and boys and for them to take pushing for its full eradication by 2030, following an active role. the spirit of Sustainable Development Goal 5. However, UNFPA estimates there may be as many Since 2008, UNFPA, jointly with UNICEF, leads as 2 million cases of female genital mutilation by the largest global programme to accelerate the 2030 that would have otherwise been averted due elimination of female genital mutilation. to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the UN, the Joint Programme This is the 6th year that Nottingham is celebrating currently focuses on 17 countries in Africa and the being the first city of zero tolerance to FGM. Middle East and also supports regional and global initiatives. Mojatu Foundation has been integral in raising awareness, sensitising communities and The UN says over the years, this partnership has empowering survivors to be the driving force for seen significant achievements and through the tackling FGM by giving them a voice and engaging support of the joint programme, more than six them in discussions, decision-making, and events million girls and women received prevention, aimed at tackling FGM. protection and care services related to FGM. A UN 2021 Annual Report on FGM sourced by Mojatu Magazine indicate that 45 million people made public declarations to abandon FGM while in the same vein 532,158 girls were prevented from undergoing the detrimental practice. Although primarily concentrated in 30 countries in Africa and the Middle East, female genital mutilation is a universal problem and is also practiced in some countries in Asia and Latin America. Over the last 25 years, the prevalence of FGM has declined globally, and today, a girl is one-third less likely to undergo FGM than 30 years ago. Men ending FGM In 2012, the UN General Assembly designated February 6th as the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, with the aim to amplify and direct the efforts on the elimination of this practice.
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STAKEHOLDERS AND COUNCIL BOSSES DISCUSS EAST MIDLANDS DEVOLUTION - By Peter Makossah Local leaders from a range of sectors recently came together to discuss the progress of East Midlands devolution, as plans to give the region extra powers and funding gather pace and momentum.
that EMCCA could be a reality from spring 2024, with the first ever election for a regional mayor covering Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby, and Nottingham - taking place in May 2024.
During the meeting, senior officers at Derbyshire County Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, Derby City Council and Nottingham City Council provided updates to key stakeholders, as devolution plans advance.
Greg Broughton, Sustainable Growth and Place Manager at the Environment Agency in East Midlands said: “Reflecting on the recent devolution stakeholder event, it was abundantly clear that there is a strong collective enthusiasm and drive to seize the opportunity for devolution to work The event, attended by representatives from together, to collaborate in new ways and to make business groups, universities and colleges, and the changes needed to transform the region.” emergency services, saw Nottingham and Derby cities and counties chief executives provide If the plans go ahead, the EMCCA - spanning two updates on key elements of the region’s proposed counties and cities - would be the first combined devolution deal, including transport, skills and county authority in the country, with a new elected adult education, housing, and net-zero. regional mayor at the helm, representing around 2.2 million people with a guaranteed income Scott Knowles, Chief Executive at the East Midlands stream of at least £1.14 billion, spread over a 30Chamber of Commerce, said: “The East Midlands year period. has historically received the lowest levels of public funding in England. The fact that the East Midlands Following the devolution proposals, the East has consistently delivered GDP growth close to the Midlands has been invited to establish an UK average, from very low levels of investment, is ‘Investment Zone’, which will attract £80 million testament to the commitment and ingenuity of the of support over five years, with tax incentives for thousands of SMEs that are the backbone of the businesses to help boost economic growth right region’s economy. across the region. For the proposed East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) to come into existence, new legislation is required from the Government, which is anticipated to be in place before the end of the year.
Emma Alexander, Managing Director at Derbyshire County Council, said: “Devolution would unlock major benefits for our region, including extra powers and funding around a range of issues including housing, transport, skills, adult education Detailed devolution proposals would then be and the environment. sent to the Government for approval, meaning
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MY TURN: ‘CONTROL YOUR OWN DESTINY - By Peter Makossah At the risk of sounding like a grumpy old fella, a description, I emphatically, reject, even though it happens to be twothirds true, I can’t categorically deny that the number of aspects of modern life that are starting to enrage me is increasing at an alarming rate.
When I say it’s two-thirds accurate to me a grumpy old fella, incidentally I mean precisely that. As in; I am about 40 percent grumpy; 60 percent old and 100 percent a jolly good fella. Which, if my maths is correct, comes out at 200 of a potential 300 percent, which is two-thirds, right? With a bit of judicious rounding up or So, for purposes of your amusement down or side to side, perhaps. world’s stage on which we must and mental wellbeing or possibly serve the desires of the others and both, but in all likelihood neither, Life is not always going to be roses seek to fulfil our own. I thought I would chuck a few of and rainbows. You are going to have these bugbears out into the wider uncomfortable moments. It’s what Like any drama, our lives, our lives world on how to design our own we do with those moments that are divided into scenes, and how destiny. is going to count and determine we choose to play each scene our destiny and I can control my shapes our destiny - all our future scenes. destiny, but not my fate. Destiny, the way I understand it, means there are opportunities to turn right or left, but fate is just but a one-way traffic street. I accept as true that we all have a choice as to whether or not we fulfil our destiny, but our fate is downright sealed, and we can’t do anything about it. Our character is our destiny. Our daily lives are like drama at the theatre. We assume the role of the protagonist, and others take on the parts of our parents, friends, lovers and foes. But who are we backstage? And when the curtain falls and death comes, what becomes of us and everyone else who had roles in our theatrical play?
Everyone is responsible for their own destiny and William Shakespeare couldn’t say it any better when he opined that “It is not in the stars to hold our destiny but in ourselves.”
Each scene also contains life lessons taught through the actionreaction cycles of karma, the universal law of cause effect from which none of us are exempt. Karma indicates that we are responsible for our actions, and reincarnation indicates that that responsibility doesn’t end with the death of the physical body. This cosmic education teaches us why bad things happen to good people and good things happen to bad people.
Ultimately, it should awaken us to the truth of ourselves as souls and our relationship with the world around us - learning our karmic lessons well moves us closer to the eternal, unchanging, absolute, self-manifest, Now, let’s talk about Karma blissful and personal nature of the and reincarnation and how the soul and relationship with our source. individual, the conscious soul, Our life has meaning inasmuch as moves of us and everyone else who we endeavour to reconnect with moves from one body to another both these truths. only to create a new drama. Therefore, control your own Shakespeare was right when he destiny, or someone else will. said, “All the world’s stage.” The
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GONORRHOEA HITS THE ROOF IN NOTTINGHAM - By Peter Makossah Worrying statistics from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) show Nottingham had an alarming rate of infectious Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) with 279 cases of gonorrhoea per 100,000 people in 2022, significantly higher than the overall national rate of 146 per 100,000.
more transmission of STIs in the population. Director of Public Health for Nottingham, Lucy Hubber, said during a health and wellbeing board meeting recently that the authority has organised extra online testing and more treatment.
Records indicate that this is the highest number of Hubber said: “As a service you can rest assured diagnoses in any one year since records began just that, our services are here for you. With clinic appointments across Nottingham, all you have to do soon after the First Word War in 1918. is choose which venue is best for you.” Also, the Nottingham Chlamydia rate is pegged at Bring it to The Table shocking 2,887 per 100,000, and this is yet again notably higher than the England rate of 1,680 per 100,000. Concerned with the current spiralling figures of Gonorrhoea in the city, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust (NUH) Outreach and Health Promotion Teamed up with Mojatu Foundation, a humanitarian charitable organisation to encourage people to be ‘Healthy Sexuals’ with a six-week podcast which was launched on September 20 on Spotify themed ‘Bring It To The Table.’ Tarze Edwards-Small, Sexual Health Promotion Outreach & Information Lead, HCA, Outreach and Health Promotion Team said: “As an Integrated Sexual Health Service, we monitor sexual health data. We know that COVID-19 has changed how people behave sexually. “We also know that infectious syphilis diagnoses increased to 8,692 in 2022 up 15.2% compared to 2021 (7,543) - the largest annual number since 1948. Edwards-Small stated that it is sad but true, HIV still disproportionately affects the black African The national figures for 2022 show a 24 per cent rise community with many late diagnoses of HIV for in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) compared black African women, who are married or in a long with 2021, and there has been a 50 per cent increase term or new relationship. in gonorrhoea since 2021. She however, said, with the advancement in HIV The price of STIs to the national health system are medication this is starting to be a real game changer. also high, with treatment costs, excluding HIV, estimated at ?620 million in the UK in 2011 and has African legacy is more than rates of HIV. It’s about celebrating a rich, deep, longstanding legacy of since been rising every year. innovation, brilliance and genius. Recognising there Last year, there were 2,195,909 diagnostic tests for is a place for everyone. chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis or HIV - 13.4% more The UK Black Pride, the world’s largest celebration than 2021. for LGBTQI+ people of African, Asian, Caribbean, The UKHSA said that while the rise in gonorrhoea Latin American and Middle Eastern descent, say and syphilis diagnoses will partly be due to increases they aim to create a safe space to celebrate diverse in testing, the sharp rise “strongly suggests” there is sexualities, gender identities and cultures through
Nottingham connected education, the arts, cultural events and advocacy. Timely collaboration Mojatu have epochs of experience of engaging the black community, assisting pregnant women who have had Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) to engaging successfully with NUH Maternity in planning a safe delivery for them and their child. Tarze Edwards-Small explained: “This was the perfect opportunity to bring the experts from NUH midwifery together to share their skilful knowledge of FGM and how to manage the well - being of women affected by this non-medical abuse of their body.
News & Sports 17 In an interview, Mojatu Foundation Project Manager for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and Reproductive and Sexual Health, Saida Barba said: “Sexual health is a valuable and wide-ranging area of public health and therefore there is need for us to do more.” Sexual Health Clinics The most diagnosed STI in England is chlamydia (49%) followed by gonorrhea (13%), first episode of genital warts (13%), and first episode of genital herpes (8%). There have been large increases in gonorrhoea nationally in recent years, with smaller increases in chlamydia, syphilis, and genital herpes.
“Mojatu Foundation skilfully engage many new and emerging communities from African countries. They understand the nuances of culture and religion when speaking about promoting good sexual health and the harm of FGM to women and girls.”
Sexual health is not equally distributed within the population. Strong links exist between deprivation and STIs, teenage conceptions and abortions, with the highest burden borne by women, men who have sex with men (MSM), trans community, young people, and people from ethnic minority backgrounds.
Bring It to the Table is Mojatu Foundation’s very own Spotify arena where the series will be hosted beginning on September 20th, 2023. This series of podcasts aim to be very successful and will be promoted within NUH.
Similarly, HIV infection in the UK disproportionately affects gay, bisexual and other MSM, and black African populations. Some groups at higher risk of poor sexual health face stigma and discrimination, which can influence their ability to access services.
In the Podcasts, Edwards-Small among other topics discuss Chlamydia, HIV, Sexual Health is health, Relationship experiences and the rise, fall and rise of Syphilis among others.
Despite the increased provision of remote and online services improving access for some, it should be recognised that some will be excluded or may be disadvantaged by these approaches, and the 2020 data on internet access revealed 5% of the UK adult population had not used the internet in the last three months and 16% of the population does not use a smartphone for private use.
On testing Edwards-Small elaborated: “Testing is quick simple and easy. Whether you decide to test at home or visit one of our sexual health clinics, you’ll have access to specialised sexual health professionals.”
18 News & Sports
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SIX FRAUDSTERS JAILED FOR 22.5 YEARS FOR BOGUS HOME IMPROVEMENT SCAM - By Peter Makossah They targeted the elderly, fallible and vulnerable victims were visited by a sales rep in their home, people, and embezzled them without mercy. where they were subjected to scare tactics and pressure selling. These included scare tactics about Six fraudsters who conned elderly residents out of the condition of the customer’s property and the £10.5 million for over-priced and often unnecessary risks of not agreeing to sign a contract. home improvement work have been sentenced to a combined total of 22.5 years at Nottingham 62 victims were identified, with many reporting Crown Court. feeling pressured into deciding on the spot for a “today only” so-called bargain, whereas in reality, Many of the groups victims were elderly people in the price had been grossly inflated. their 80s and 90s, with some of the most vulnerable repeatedly and cynically targeted. Jason Rowan (51) of Town End Road, Draycott, Stephen Tomlinson (55) of Dorchester Avenue, Councillor John Cottee, Cabinet Member for Derby, David Beeson (53) of Bracknell Drive, Communities at Nottinghamshire County Council, Alvaston, Derby, Christopher Simpson (58) of said: “We would like to thank all the victims who Erdington Hall Road, Birmingham, Bohdan Zacharko came forward and worked with our investigators (69) of High Holborn, London and Philip Eremenko to help bring these unscrupulous conmen to trial. (54) of Thistledown Road, Clifton were found guilty These sentences send a strong message to fraudsters of conspiracy to commit fraud under the Criminal that this type of activity will not be tolerated. Law Act 1977 at Nottingham Crown Court on “We always advise residents to be alert to cold 28th June 2023. Stephen Tomlinson, Jason Rowan calling, never to trade or buy at the door and to and Bohdan Zacharko were also found guilty of always report any concerns. If something doesn’t feel fraudulent trading under the Companies Act 2006, right, then it probably isn’t, and you should never be and Jason Rowan was also found guilty of offences afraid to close the door on scammers and those who under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002. turn up out of the blue offering to provide services The sentences handed down were as follows: Jason that you do not need.” Rowan - 7 years imprisonment and disqualified from Between 2014 and 2018, the fraudsters marketed and sold home improvement services via multiple companies, most often selling exterior wall and roof coating products they falsely claimed were ‘guaranteed’ to cure damp and significantly reduce heating bills.
being a director for 10 years; Stephen Tomlinson - 4.5 years imprisonment and disqualified from being a director for 5 years; David Beeson - 3 years imprisonment; Christopher Simpson - 3 years imprisonment; Bohdan Zacharko - 2.5 years imprisonment and disqualified from being a director for 5 years; Philip Eremenko - 2.5 years imprisonment.
The turnover of the businesses was £10.5 million. Initial contact was made with victims from a All six will serve half of their sentences with the company call centre. Following the initial cold call, remainder served under licence.
Nottingham connected
News & Sports 19
‘UPSKIRTING’ CRIMES INCREASE IN NOTTINGHAM IN PAST TWO YEARS - By Peter Makossah
At least fourteen upskirting crimes were recorded right and also connected to the fears women have in Nottinghamshire in the last twenty four months, about the risk of other forms of sexual violence, and new data reveals. the calculations we are always making about our safety.” Upskirting is a form of voyeurism where someone uses a camera or phone to take photos or videos Across England and Wales, 721 upskirting crimes were underneath a person’s clothes without their recorded in 2021 and 2022 across 38 forces - 96 per permission. It was outlawed illegal in England and cent of victims with a recorded gender were female. Wales in 2019. For the 37 forces that provided details of how the The End Violence Against Women Coalition said a incidents were followed up, 86, 12 per cent, of these focus on public awareness campaigns and school crimes resulted in a charge or summons. education on healthy sex and relationships is needed The data for Nottinghamshire shows at least one to tackle the crime. crime led to a charge in both 2021 and in 2022, but Fourteen upskirting offences were recorded in the the exact figures are supressed. last two years by Nottinghamshire Police - eight in Separate Ministry of Justice figures show there have 2022 and six in 2021. been 356 prosecutions involving upskirting since the However, Mojatu Magazine has established that all law was changed. the victims were female. Out of the 356 prosecutions, 262 led to convictions. Andrea Simon, End Violence against Women Coalition director, said: “It is vital we take this behaviour A Government spokesman said: “We created a specific seriously, so those who do it know they will face offence to tackle upskirting because it is an abhorrent consequences for it, but also to prevent the potential and degrading crime which no one, especially children, should have to experience. escalation of sexual offending. “We need to think about upskirting as connected We are also investing record funding into policing to all the other forms of harassment and abuse that and up to £7.4 million in projects to tackle the root women experience, it is a harmful violation in its own causes of violence against women and girls.”
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20 News & Sports
PERSISTENCE OF VICTIMS LAND CHILD SEX PREDATORS IN PRISON - By Peter Makossah Bravery and dogged persistence of sexual abuse sufferers have aided the law enforcers to successfully put two calculating vile predatory child sex offenders under lock and key for a long time.
will closely restrict their behaviour once thy are released from prison. A third man, 46-year-old Matthew Mardell, of Glade hill Road, pleaded guilty to two indecent assaults on a boy and was given a 20-month prison sentence suspended for two years. The Nottingham County Court heard that Chambers, a former guitarist with Nottingham-based band Paper Lace, exploited his status as a minor celebrity when he befriended the boy more than 30 years ago. The court learnt that Chambers later introduced him to former band roadie Polkey as the pair took turns to exploit him for their own sexual gratification and it was during the course of that investigation that two further victims were identified who had each been abused by Polkey.
Nottinghamshire Police detectives have explained how the courageousness and perseverance of the victims and their relentless fortitude in their pursuit for justice has helped two former Nottingham famous musicians behind bars.
A long investigation Detectives at Nottinghamshire Police initially started to looking onto the allegations in 2017 when the victim - now an adult - came forward to report what had happened to him.
The trail then ran cold after the victim decided not Convicted Child sex offenders, John Chambers, aged to continue his complaint with a formal statement. 73, and Andrew Polkey, aged 57, were jailed for a When he reengaged with detectives two years later, total of 26 years last week after officers uncovered a they were able to move the case forward. litany of sexual abuse against boys. Detective Sergeant Lee Kirk, of Nottinghamshire The two convicts were arrested in 2020 and Police, said: “As is often the case with non-recent interviewed about the allegations and both denied allegations this victim simply did not feel ready to the offences, but later pleaded guilty to multiple speak in more detail about what happened to him, sexual assaults. so there was little we could do to move forward the Chambers, formerly of Crowley Close, Bilborough, matter forward. pleaded guilty to eight assaults against one boy and “The victim decided to re-engage with us. His Polkey, formerly of Glade Hill Road, Arnold, admitted evidence was utterly compelling and forensic in to 17 against two boys. detail in places, including details of Chambers home The two criminals took it in turns to abuse one and of vehicles linked to his former band.” vulnerable boy over several years - plying him with Superintendent Natasha Todd, head of Public drugs and alcohol after inviting him to their homes. Protection at Nottinghamshire Police, said: “These Appearing at Nottingham Crown Court, Chambers men thought they could commit these offences and Polkey were jailed for ten-and-a-half years and with impunity, but they simply hadn’t reckoned on 13 years respectively and both men were also made the bravery of their victims and the determination the subject of Sexual Harm Prevention Orders, which of Nottinghamshire Police to hold them to account.”
Nottingham connected
News & Sports 21
UNDER 22’S BENEFIT FROM CHEAPER TRAVEL IN NOTTINGHAMSHIRE - By Peter Makossah
Nottingham City Council and Nottinghamshire County Council are working in partnership to deliver Nottinghamshire U22, a new ticketing price point on buses and trams across the county offering student prices to all under 22-year-olds. The scheme, which is dubbed the ‘Under 22 products,’ will be available until March 2025, subject to further review, aims to support all young people by improving access to travel for work, leisure and study. To qualify people must be between ages 19 and 21 and have proof of a Nottinghamshire address. In most instances, this product must be pre-purchased and will not be available on-board buses. Tickets will be available from Sunday 3 September to purchase online, at travel centres, via operator apps and at tram stop machines. Purchasing options vary by bus or tram company so passengers are advised to check with their operator before attempting to travel. Councillor Angela Kandola, Nottingham City Council Portfolio Holder for Transport, said: “Nottingham is a young city, and we want all our young people to be able to access everything this amazing city has to offer.
to be a young person, the pandemic had a major impact on this generation’s access to employment, study and leisure at such a critical time in their lives.” Councillor Neil Clarke MBE, Cabinet Member for Transport and Environment at Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “We are pleased to be partnering with Nottingham City Council to offer young people between the ages of 19 and 22 a cheaper way to travel across the county and city. “The new ticket means that young people will be able to get around by bus and tram for the same price as students, helping them to access employment, education, leisure and many more opportunities for a reduced price. “We know that not everyone between the ages of 19 and 22 is a student and while the ticket offers for students are great news for those in education, we wanted to widen the offer to everyone between the ages of 19 and 22. “This initiative is just one of the ways that we’re making improvements to public transport in Nottinghamshire through our Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), and I look forward to hearing about the benefits it will undoubtedly have for young people using it.”
“When we were developing our Bus Service Improvement Plan, we wanted to think holistically Roads Minister Richard Holden said, “People up and about our transport offer and improving access for down the country deserves a clean, reliable, and young people is a key part of this. It’s a difficult time affordable public transport system.
22 News & Sports
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“IT FEELS AMAZING TO BE IN NOTTINGHAM” – SAYS ON-LOAN FOREST STRIKER DIVOCK ORIGI - By Peter Makossah Super Reds on-loan goal-poacher, Divock Origi says On why he chose to come to Forest, Origi says the lofty it feels amazing to be in Nottingham and be part of ambitions of the club attracted him as they align with the ambitious ‘Garibaldi’ dream. his personal ambitions. Champions league and Premier league winner, Origi, joined Forest on loan from the Italian giants, AC Milan late on transfer deadline day, returning to the Premier League, where he spent a successful eight years at Liverpool says he has fallen in love with the Robin Hood City.
“I feel the team’s ambitions and my aspirations align well but more importantly; I feel that there is something special going on at the City Ground. So, for me it was an easy choice and the perfect one.
“I am happy to be here, and I will bring the best version of myself and do everything I can to help the club achieve its dreams during my stay and time at the City Ground, in order to “make the best season possible with the boys.”
“He is a brilliant football mind and brain who clearly translated the values, ambitions and dreams of the team to me very well. It was easy to understand. It was a brief conversation, but we connected instantly, and we both feel very good.
“Just being back in England feels great as this is like home. I signed in the UK when I was only 19. So, I grew The 28-year-old Belgian international of Kenyan up practically here. It feels amazing to be back.” ancestry says he is exhilarated and ecstatic to be back Origi, whose father, Mike Okoth Origi, starred for the in the country and in the topflight of English football. Kenya national team, the Harambe Stars, heaped praise Says Origi: “It feels amazing,” Origi told the club’s on Nottingham Forest Head Coach, Steve Cooper as a YouTube channel. “It’s good to be back in the UK. I had great coach who is doing extraordinarily well. a little tour and saw the stadium, it was special.” “Everyone can see the work he’s doing and the energy The Belgian international striker, who is a Champions he’s bringing. I could tell from afar before I spoke with League winner, outlining his personal ambitions for the him. Speaking with him, he told me his plan for me and the team, how he wants to get the best of me and in me. 2023-24 season, said:
Nottingham connected
News & Sports 23
NOTTINGHAM GAMBIAN COMMUNITY FUNDRAISES FOR A MASJID PROJECT - By Julius Mwangi
The weather was chilly and rainy, but this did not dampen the mood for the day’s event as the Nottingham Gambian community braved the ‘waters from the sky’ to fundraise for the Masjid Project.
According to the organisers, the purpose of event was to raise awareness among the youth, discouraging them from participating in harmful activities like drug abuse, which can present challenges for both, themselves and the authorities.
The young and old came together in unison for the fundraiser, which took place on Saturday the August Gambian Community Volunteer mobiliser, Edrissa 5th, 2023, at the Forest recreation grounds. Touray, who was part of the organising committee of the event said: “We organised the sports day in order Despite the bad weather conditions scores of people to, firstly, fundraise funds for the mosque project and from the Gambian community and other communities secondly, to bring the people from our community turned up for the event which comprised plenty of together and have fun, connect and do some games including football.There was a bountiful of exercises as a way of staying healthy and fit.” food for the event attendees to purchase and eat with the money realised going straight to Masjid Project, According to Touray, in recent years, the Nottingham and there was a wide range of traditional foods from Gambian Community has experienced a consistent Gambia Community the highlight being Jollof rice or expansion saying Nottingham has garnered increased popularly known as Benachin. popularity among Gambians, primarily driven by the pursuit of better opportunities and, more significantly, Masjid is an Arabic word for Mosque the cultural and religious assimilation of Gambians At the pinnacle of it all was a men’s football residing in this area. tournament, which was part of fundraising for Masjid, “The community has grown beyond expectation and an Arabic word for a Mosque, which was officially for that matter, there is an urgent need to create our opened by the Deputy leader of Nottingham, own Community Centre, where we can freely practise Councillor Audra Wynter, of Bestwood Ward. our religion as well as holding most of our activities,” A total of five teams participated in this year’s football tournament, with the team sponsored by APS International, a UK and Gambia-based money transfer company, emerging as the overall winner.
said Touray. Nottingham, which is regarded as Britain’s cultural and multiracial melting of gold, has become more popular to Gambians during the past years, predominantly due to cultural and religious integration of Gambians living here.
The victorious team received a trophy and individual medals for the players with the event primarily https://mojatu.com/2023/10/24/gambianattracting the younger generation, as they are community-fundraise-for-masjid-project-innottingham/ considered as the future leaders.
24 News & Sports
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MIDFIELD MAESTRO IBRAHIM SANGARÉ THRILLED TO PLAY FOR THE TRENTSIDE OUTFIT - By Peter Makossah New Nottingham Forest midfield sensation and battle-hardened footballer, Ibrahim Sangare says he is ecstatic to play for Nottingham Forest promising that he will give his all to the team and the devoted supporters.
the team as high up the league positions” as possible. “My ambition is to continue to develop and to play and participate in these good times for the team, and as part of the team, the ambition is to take up the challenge of leading the team as high up the league positions as we can.” Sangare said he is committed and dedicated to join his teammates to help Forest to remain one of the world’s greatest football clubs and to keep it stay aloof in the Premier League and perhaps push it into the European glory. Renowned soccer pundit, Andy Townsend says Nottingham Forest have signed an unbelievable quality player in Ibrahim Sangare. “I tell you what, they’ve signed one lad, Ibrahim Sangare. He’s a really good player, he’s outstanding. I have watched him a bit with PSV playing Rangers recently and he’s been really good to watch,” said Townsend. Sangare was Forest’s number-one target all summer and they had had to leave it late, until deadline day, but they did finally get the Ivorian over the line. Forest sold their prized forward Brennan Johnson to Tottenham on the final day of the window and used the funds raised to get Sangare over the line.
The commanding midfielder scored eight goals in 45 appearances in all competitions last season, as the The 25-year-old defending midfielder joined Forest from Dutch side finished second in the Eredivisie. PSV on transfer deadline day with seven other players. Sangaré’s importance for PSV hasn’t wavered this In an interview, the illustrious Ivory Coast international season either, with the 25-year-old scoring two goals said: “I feel good, happy, I already feel at home here. as Peter Bosz’ side qualified for the UEFA Champions’ Sangare I’ve said to myself that after the interest the League group stages. club has shown in me for so long - so many years have elapsed - I’m really glad to be here now, happy to face Born in the Ivory Coast, Sangaré, who wears number 6 for the Trentside, began his professional career in the challenges that lie ahead. France with Toulouse, making 86 appearances before When it was pointed out to Sangare that Forest fans making the move to the Netherlands in 2020. were keen for him to join the club, he said: “It’s heartwarming and so humbling to know that. I’m really During his three years at Philips Stadion, the Ivorian happy to be here, and I’ll be doing everything I can has won three Johan Cruyff Shields and two KNVB to repay that belief in me and to give the fans a lot of Cups, making 140 appearances for PSV across all competitions. pleasure with how I play.” The midfielder hinted that his ambition is to “continue A key player for the Ivory Coast national team, Sangaré to develop and play in these good times” for Forest, has scored nine goals in 31 games for his country since and said he wants to “take up the challenge of leading making his international debut as a 17-year-old.
Nottingham connected
News & Sports 25
SHERWOOD FOREST TAKES NATIONAL CYCLING SPOTLIGHT AT THE TOUR OF BRITAIN RACE - By Julius Mwangi
Nottinghamshire’s world-famous Sherwood Forest Nottinghamshire County Council Leader, Councillor will provide a stunning backdrop to the Tour of Britain Ben Bradley MP, said: “The Tour of Britain’s return was cycle race when it returns to the county later this year. fantastic, and it was great welcoming the teams as well as the spectators who graced our towns and villages in Stage four of the showpiece kickstarted at Forest Corner their thousands to cheer on the riders. in Edwinstowe – a short distance away from the iconic Major Oak and RSPB Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre – “The stage once again provided us with a brilliant before it wound up in Newark-on-Trent. opportunity to showcase Nottinghamshire to a global television audience of millions and help shine a light on The full route will be launched soon, but the worldwhy it is such a great place to live, work and visit and we class field of riders will pass through several towns and did to the best of our ability, and we cannot be prouder. villages in the districts of Bassetlaw and Newark and Sherwood along the 170-kilometre stage. Cllr John Cottee, the county council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, said he was grateful for the race’s Popular visitor destinations Southwell Minster return and that he was delighted the whole stage took and Clumber Park will also feature on the stage as place in Robin Hood Country. Nottinghamshire gears up to host the Tour for a fourth time since 2017. He said: “Our wonderful county is known across the globe for its sporting heritage and hosting the race Sherwood Forest will provide a stunning backdrop to for a fourth time in seven years is recognition that the Tour of Britain cycle race when it returns to the we have what it takes to successfully stage major county later this year. sporting events.”
mojatu.com
26 Community
COMMUNITY GROUPS URGED TO APPLY FOR NEW FOOD REDISTRIBUTION SCHEME GRANT - ByJulius Mwangi To ensure quality progress on good health for residents, community groups and voluntary organisations in Nottinghamshire are being persuaded to apply for a new grant to improve the dwellers’ access to affordable and healthful food. Nottinghamshire County Council has launched the Food Redistribution Scheme Grant which will enable groups to establish schemes to help families and households access affordable good quality and nutritious food. £210,000 has been set aside over the next three years for the funding scheme, £90,000 in year one; £65,000 in year two and £55,000 in year three. This has been made available through the county council’s Local Community Fund (LCF).
and sustainable communities. The LCF was launched in the autumn of 2021 and gives community groups and organisations an opportunity to apply for grants to deliver support to boost health and wellbeing in their local area. This new support package forms part of the county council’s continued commitment to support vulnerable residents, ease the financial worries for families facing cost-of-living pressures and develop healthy and sustainable places.
Councillor John Cottee, Cabinet Member for Communities, which oversees the LCF scheme, said: “Once again, I am proud that the LCF is providing support to the community and voluntary sector to enable groups and organisations to continue with their The launch of the Food Redistribution Scheme vital work to help residents live healthier and more Grant follows the roll-out of two LCF-funded cost-of- independent lives. living grants worth £450,000 in December to enable “We know the Covid-19 pandemic, coupled with costorganisations to apply for funding to support those of-living pressures, have impacted on low-income struggling to buy nutritious food and to help groups families in Nottinghamshire and the launch of the Food cover the costs of their own rising energy bills. Redistribution Scheme Grant will mean groups will be Councillor Matt Barney, the county council’s Cabinet able to work with those people who need help the most. Member for Adult Social Care and Public Health, said: “We have had a fantastic response to the LCF since its “The new Food Redistribution Grant will enable more launch and would encourage any organisation looking people to receive extra support and reaffirms our to make a difference in their communities, particularly commitment to reduce health inequalities as residents for more vulnerable residents, to get in touch with us at continue to face cost-of-living pressures. the earliest opportunity.” “We know that the community and voluntary sector is well placed to deliver food redistribution schemes in their local area and often provide a lifeline to some of the most vulnerable and hard-to-reach members of our community. “Therefore, I would encourage groups and organisations to apply for this funding as soon as possible.” Organisations, which also include local authorities such as parish, district, and borough councils, will be able to apply for a grant worth up to £10,000 in the first year from Friday 3 February. Applications close on Sunday 26 February. Mojatu Online understands that successful applicants will be able to use the funding to establish or support food redistribution schemes to meet local identified need as part of the ongoing drive to encourage healthy
Nottingham connected
Community 27
PENNY COOPER: A COMMUNITY CHAMPION EXTRAORDINAIRE - By Peter Makossah She’s a philanthropist, community champion, a goddess of charity and a human who loves humanity. She lives her life for others and the communities around her. She is truly her name, which means someone of great substance. Her kindness is her currency, and she exudes elegance. She is worth much more than pennies because she is a penny worth more than gold and silver.
We engaged with the local people, shared our food, took photographs, and discussed experiences. I will never forget the friendly nature of the people we engaged with, and this is reflected in Mojatu, a multicultural organisation, where many Africans come for work experience. You studied and earned a Geography degree in your early years and thereafter went into education, how did this pan out?
Since 2012, the big-hearted Penny Cooper has been involved with Mojatu Foundation serving communities in Nottingham and in the more than a decade she has been involved with helping people solve their problems, especially the black, Asian and minority ethnic group.
While in London, I did a Post Graduate Certificate in Education at Kingston University, and qualified to teach. Over 3 years I was able to do this part time and teach while doing it. I taught in adult education, college, and university.
We caught up with her for a chat in this interview. Excerpts:
You have been at Mojatu Foundation since 2012 what inspired you to do so?
Who is Penny Cooper?
Believe it or not, I volunteered with Mojatu to learn web design. Mojatu back then had 3 staff and volunteers Born and educated in Nottingham, to a family of and primarily was about web site management and seven, five siblings and parents, I had a rich and loving design, and Mojatu magazine. For the full interview, childhood, with parents who liked holidays in the UK. please read it here https://mojatu.com/2023/04/24/ As a result, I have travelled around the UK, camping and one-on-one-with-penny-cooper/ caravanning for years. I graduated BSc Geography in Plymouth, and afterwards went to London. I just love London, but after 20 years or there abouts decided to return to Nottingham. I volunteered at Mojatu in 2012, the best decision I ever made, and have grown with the organisation with a very varied and dedicated team and thank them for their tireless support over the years. Tell me more about your life’s journey? I have an adventurous spirit and love travelling. So as a student I travelled around Europe for a month in the Summer. Upon getting married, my husband and I decided to travel around the world for a year, an experience I will never forget. I saw firsthand the poverty in many countries, the joys, and the frustrations of communities, and realised how lucky I was. Five months in Africa, travelling through on a truck meant we visited villages, markets, and towns along the roadside.
28 Community
mojatu.com
CARBON NEUTRAL NOTTINGHAM LAUNCHES WEBSITE TO OFFER PRACTICAL ADVICE - By Peter Makossah A new website has been launched by Nottingham their own environmental impact if we’re to achieve our City Council to support Nottingham’s ambition to target of becoming a carbon neutral city by 2028. be the first carbon neutral city in the UK by 2028. “I hope that bringing information from across the city The Carbon Neutral Nottingham website brings together into one place helps people to understand together in one place a range of information about how their actions will make a difference and motivates what is happening to make the city more sustainable. them to do what they can to reduce their emissions. Everyone’s actions make a difference, no matter how The website aims to offer practical advice and big or small.” opportunities for residents to reduce their own carbon footprints. There are dedicated sections for Tackling the climate crisis is one of Nottingham City each of the nine key themes of the city’s Carbon Council’s key priorities. The Earth’s average temperature Neutral Action Plan – Buildings, Energy, Transport, has increased dramatically over the past 100 years, and Waste, Water, Stuff, Protecting the City, Nature, and 2022 was the UK’s hottest year on record. Removing Carbon from the Atmosphere. During the heatwave in July 2022, temperatures Councillor David Mellen, Leader of the Council and reached 40.3 degrees Celsius in neighbouring Portfolio Holder for Carbon Neutral Nottingham Lincolnshire, which is the highest temperature said: “The Carbon Neutral Nottingham website is a recorded in the UK. fantastic resource. Explaining the city’s ambition and Our changing climate is largely driven by the burning of getting people in Nottingham involved is a key part fossil fuels – for example when we drive petrol or diesel of our plan.” vehicles, fly in planes and heat our homes using gas. Mr. Mellen said the site will make it easy for people to These activities increase the amount of carbon understand why reducing the city’s carbon emissions dioxide in the atmosphere and cause the planet to is important and how they can get involved. warm - the Council is directly responsible for just 3% Said Mr. Mellen “We’re making progress on delivering the of Nottingham’s carbon dioxide emissions - so it is actions set out in our Carbon Neutral Action Plan, but we vital that everyone in the city does what they can to need to get everyone involved in taking steps to reduce reduce their environmental impact.
Nottingham connected
Community 29
FREE VITAMINS FOR NOTTINGHAM AND NOTTINGHAMSHIRE PREGNANT WOMEN - By Julius Mwangi County Council said, “Caring for the health and well-being of our residents is a major priority for Nottinghamshire County Council, and this initiative to provide free pregnancy vitamins is proof of our commitment. “Ensuring that everyone who is pregnant in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire has access to essential vitamins is not just about supporting physical health; it’s about nurturing our community’s future.
Pregnant women across the City and County are to receive free vitamins as part of a linkup between local hospitals and councils.
Councillor Linda Woodings, Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care and Health at Nottingham City Council, said, “Eating a healthy, nutritious diet is really important if you’re pregnant, to provide the right balance of nutrients to support you during pregnancy and help your baby grow and develop properly.
Maternity services at Nottingham University and Sherwood Forest Hospitals are working with Nottingham City Council and Nottinghamshire County Council’s Public Health “You may not be getting enough departments on the project, vitamin C, vitamin D or folic acid, which will run until April 2024. so these supplements provide the correct amount of recommended Mojatu Magazine understands that vitamins you and your baby needs.” Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Council teams have also secured Added Councillor Woodings: “It’s funding to continue to offer free really important to take these vitamin starter packs to everyone vitamins to help support you and while pregnant for a further two your baby’s development during years from April 2024 until March pregnancy and beyond”. 2026. These are universal offers – Councillor Matt Barney, Cabinet available to all, regardless of their Member for Adult Social Care and eligibility for the Healthy Start Public Health at Nottinghamshire Scheme.
“This universal offer, available to all, reflects our belief in equality and our dedication to providing the best start in life for every child. Together with our partners, we are taking a significant step towards a healthier and stronger community.” In Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, anyone who is pregnant should be offered free vitamins and all the vitamins will be provided by community midwifery teams and offered to pregnant individuals as soon as possible in pregnancy and up until the baby is born. The vitamin packs to be distributed contains; Folic acid, which lowers the chance of babies developing spinal and brain problems; Vitamin C to help tissue repair, wound healing, and support for the baby’s bones and teeth to develop, as well as immunity and Vitamin D, which helps support babies’ bones to develop properly. According to the two Councils, pregnant residents may also be able to get free fruit, vegetables, milk while pregnant and until their child is four.
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NOTTINGHAM COUNTY COUNCIL LEADING ELECTRICAL VEHICLES CONSORTIUM - By Peter Makossah The Nottinghamshire County council has been allocated £5.5million from the Government to increase the number of electric vehicle charge points in the county. The funding comes thanks to Nottinghamshire County Council working with 12 other midlands councils to create two partnerships across the region to successfully submit a bid for the Government’s Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) Fund, alongside sub-national transport body, Midlands Connect. Second Midlands EV infrastructure Consortium – Lead by Nottinghamshire County Council, in partnership with Derby City Council, Derbyshire County Council, Nottingham City Council, Staffordshire County Council. Third Midlands EV infrastructure Consortium – Lead by Lincolnshire County Council, in partnership with Herefordshire County Council, Leicestershire County Council, Rutland County Council, Shropshire Council, Stoke-on-Trent City Council, Telford and Wrekin Council, Warwickshire County Council. The partnerships have an award of £39.3m, and each local authority has been allocated an individual amount from that pot. Analysis by Midlands Connect found the Midlands needs 17,461 new public EV charging points by the end of 2025 to meet the needs of the growing EV market and it’s hoped this latest good news around the Government funding will spur on more region-wide installation of charging points.
Estimates suggest the installation and maintenance of electric vehicle charging points will also create an influx of jobs in the region, with over 42,000 related roles set to be created in the Midlands by the end of 2032.
wider region and this funding for electric vehicle charge points is just one of the ways that we can make our county greener for future generations to enjoy.”
Maria Machancoses, CEO of Midlands Connect, said: “We are In 2022, Midlands Connect together delighted the Government has with five councils secured £1million allocated funding over £39.3m for of funding through the LEVI Fund 13 councils across the Midlands. Pilot and that cash is expected to This will really help the region to attract an additional £2.8m of private charge ahead of the pack. sector investment to roll out 322 “This is a vital next step in our standard and 27 rapid EV charging efforts to improve electric vehicle points across the Midlands. Charge charging infrastructure across the points are expected to be installed region ahead of the phase out of for this project in summer 2024. sales of new diesel and petrol cars Councillor Neil Clarke MBE, and vans by 2030. This funding will Cabinet Member for Transport and improve the lives of those living in Environment at Nottinghamshire the Midlands, particularly for those County Council, said: “It is our who do not have access to off-street ambition to improve local parking and may struggle to charge electric vehicle infrastructure their vehicle otherwise.” across Nottinghamshire and we Derby City Council received are delighted to be leading a £1,758,000 and Derbyshire County consortium of local authorities to Council got £6,604,000 while achieve this ambition. Nottingham City Council was given “This is great news for £1,704,000 and Nottinghamshire Nottinghamshire and for the County Council got £5,522,000.
Nottingham connected
Community 31
NOTTINGHAM CITY COUNCIL SAVES £20,000 THROUGH WATER SELF-SUPPLIER PROJECT - By Peter Makossah
The ambitious Nottingham City Council, which for the past four years, has been supplying water services to its own buildings has saved around £80,000 in that period.
performance as we work towards becoming a carbon-neutral city.”
previously possible, ensuring the council can target repairs.
Gina Clark, Compliance and Consultancy Manager at Nottingham City Council, said: “From conception of the idea The Environment and Sustainability through to market entry and now division set up a Water Self-supply four years of successful operation, Licence in 2019 after changes it has been exciting to watch the in the water industry allowed developments in the water market.” organisations to choose how Being unique in the market has they receive water supply and been a challenge, but the council wastewater services. has risen to it, and we have After becoming a self-supplier, improved and developed each step the City Council has saved around of the way. I am proud to be the £200,000 per year on water bills and water self-supply manager and am achieved three times the amount of looking forward to continuing to predicted efficiencies. deliver significant financial savings for the authority,” added Clark. Councillor Corall Jenkins, Portfolio Holder for Environment, Energy, The Water Self-Supply Licence Waste and Parks, said: “Nottingham allows the council to buy water City Council’s achievements with directly from the wholesaler Severn the Water Self-supply Licence are Trent Water – removing the retailer fantastic and another example of aspect – in order to manage its own our innovative schemes to improve water payments. This model allows resource efficiency across our estate. the division to increase customer service standards by supplying its As a large consumer of water, having own sites, reducing operating costs, a self-supply licence has allowed us and increasing water efficiency. to have greater control over this precious resource. The team are Improved data analysis of sites, by always looking for new ways to use undertaking more regular reads, water more efficiently to save costs allows the City Council to identify and improve our environmental leaks much sooner than was
Due to the success of the scheme, a portion of Nottingham City Council’s schools were added to the portfolio in 2022, meaning that more water savings can be made which benefits a wider audience and ensures council water bills are reduced further. In addition to the progress made with the Water Self-supply Licence, the council hopes to deliver further water efficiency projects in 23/24. To make further improvements, the team is currently installing a new-to-the-market meter-reading device onto a number of the harderto-reach water meters so that they can be read remotely. This will reduce the time needed to travel to the various sites and further improve efficiency by providing weekly reads, which is key for sites that may be prone to leaks. Nottingham City Council is one of only three local authorities to have a Water Self-supply Licence and is unique in the market being the only self-supplier, across local authorities or commercial organisations, to be running a fully in-house operational model.
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“I BROUGHT YOU HERE!” - AN INTRESTING TALE OF ZIMBABWEAN ‘MABROTI’ HUSBANDS IN THE UK - ByPeter Makossah
Melancholic, demeaning, humiliating, insulting, and affronting - these are some of the hurtful words that describes the excruciating experience that many UK African diaspora husbands go through.
unruly and rude wives, who expected their husbands to quickly adapt and contribute to the household income in their new country, and are expected not to behave the African way, the patriarchy head-of-the family controlling mode.
“There’s a natural mystic blowing’ through the air,” as ‘Hitting the ground’ the legendary reggae icon, Bob Marley intoned it, “If The UK diaspora, wives express their frustrations, you listen carefully now you will hear and indeed there questioning the husbands’ daily routines and urging is an oscillation with a new wafting and gusting in the them to take up responsibilities such as picking up stratums of the Zimbabwean UK diaspora’s marriages. the children from school or sharing household chores In the dispersion world of Zimbabwe, formerly such as cleaning and washing dishes. Southern Rhodesia in the colonial era, UK Zimbabwean “I brought him here to help me not to drain me. This diaspora, a new term has been coined to describe a is not Africa that a man can control me. If the kitchen certain group of men who have migrated to the UK for is hot, let him get out,” says one married Zimbabwean pastures greener on the spouse visas - ‘Ma broughtie’ woman who sought anonymity and only identified or ‘Ma broti’ and this derogatory term, often used herself as ‘Mayi Thu’ meaning she is the mother of two. widely by Zimbabwean women, carries a derogatory undertone, highlighting the challenges faced by these Mayi Thu further, huffed: “It is only in Zimbabwe that a ‘imported’ husbands in their new lives in the UK. man can control a woman. If they bring that mentality here, we will pay them back the dowry money they The ‘Broughties’ find themselves navigating a paid prior to the marriage and hey, that money did not complex landscape of cultural adjustments, shifting buy my person off.” gender roles, and strained relationships. And the phrase “I brought you here!” has become a regular Recognizing the challenges faced by ‘Brotis,’ popular characteristic refrain within the Zimbabwean diaspora Zimbabwean social media personality @KingJayZIm community. advises men to “hit the ground running” and secure employment as soon as they arrive in the UK, This, signifies the resentment felt by some intractable,
Nottingham connected regardless of their previous professional status. He advises: “Taking up any job, even as a bin man or a cleaner, can help restore a sense of dignity and contribute to maintaining a harmonious household. Be useful to the household and retain your respect.” @KingJayZIm warns against lounging around and becoming too vocal, as it often leads to confrontations and the dreaded reminder of being brought to the UK Nottingham based businessperson and proprietor of Braai King African eatery; Patrice Musarurwa said the transition from the traditional gender roles prevalent in Zimbabwe to the more egalitarian environment in the UK can be jarring for many ‘Broughties.’ “The expectation of being accorded with too much respect as the family head and routinely being greeted with the familiar “Mamuka sei Baba Tapiwa” is quickly replaced with the reality of being called by your first name; “Jonso,” for Johnson or just Tawa for Tawanda. The Soul Provider The cultural shock of adjusting to new responsibilities, such as cooking and household chores, can add to the strain on relationships and King Jay’s Twitter (X) thread captures the humour and struggles faced by ‘Broughties’ as they grapple with their evolving identities and negotiate their place in their new homes brilliantly. The issue of gender equivalence in social and economic roles is a significant factor in the challenges faced by ‘Brotis’ and while some men embrace the changing dynamics and adapt to their new circumstances, others resist, leading to strained relationships and potential social consequences. The MaBroti husband issue highlights the importance of adjusting to the new reality or facing the repercussions of rejecting the shift and the experiences shared by Zimbabwean men in the UK provide a glimpse into the complexities of diaspora life. One husband said in an interview: “I’m fed up. Just because she brought me here, it doesn’t give her the impetus to disrespect, demean, humiliate and insult me, I am still the head of the family, whether it is in Zimbabwe or Britain. “Back home, I had a highly paying job, and I took care of her, and she didn’t have to work as I was providing everything. Not once, did I look down on her because I was the ‘Soul Provider’ one providing for the house.”
Community 33 The term ‘Ma broughtie’ has sparked conversations and shed light on the challenges faced by Zimbabwean husbands abroad and it serves as a reminder that the journey of migration involves not only physical relocation but also emotional and cultural adjustments. Divorce is generally rare in Zimbabwe as it is highly stigmatised and will MaBroti’s seek for one? Therefore, as MaBroti’s navigate their new lives, it becomes apparent that embracing change and finding a balance between cultural expectations and evolving gender roles are crucial for a harmonious existence. Natural Mystic In Zimbabwe, the “family” traditionally refers to an expansive kinship network and one becomes a family member, also through marriage. Marriage and dating practices vary between the rural and urban areas and the practices may also be influenced by the couple’s social attitudes and reasons for marriage and commonly, Zimbabwean couples date privately and only tell their parents of their relationship once they are ready to get married. Zimbabwean law recognises both civil marriages and customary marriages - civil marriages are monogamous unions that can be ended by death or divorce - similar to the legal system followed in the UK and the most common unions among Zimbabweans are unregistered customary marriages. There’s seems to be a natural mystic blowing’ through the air, and as Bob Marley prophesied, could this be the first trumpet, or might as well be last and will there be many more ‘Ma-Broughtie’ husbands to suffer?
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NOTTINGHAM PARENTS URGED TO CHECK IF THEIR CHILDREN HAVE HAD MMR VACCINES - By Julius Mwangi
Nottingham City Council is urging parents to check if their children are up to date with immunisations, including two doses of the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccination.
diseases. However, measles, mumps and rubella can quickly spread again if fewer than 90 per cent of people are vaccinated. Currently in Nottingham, just over 76 per cent of children have had the two vaccines by five years old.
This comes hot on the wheels after, the capital, London, has seen a The NHS in England runs a surge in measles cases recently and scheduled vaccination programme mumps is also on the rise. which begins from the age of eight weeks old, through childhood and Measles is a highly infectious disease into adulthood. People need two that can lead to serious problems doses of the MMR vaccine to protect such as pneumonia, meningitis, them from serious Illness and having and, on rare occasions, long-term both also gives children lifelong disability or death. Complications protection. The first MMR vaccine is from mumps include hearing loss given at age one year and the second and can very rarely cause infertility at age three years and four months. in men. Rubella can cause serious problems during pregnancy. Lucy Hubber, Director of Public Health at Nottingham City Council, If 95 per cent of children receive the said: “Vaccination is the most MMR vaccine, it’s possible to reduce important thing we can do to the risk of spreading the viral
protect ourselves and our children against ill health. People can get seriously ill if they catch Measles, Mumps or Rubella and they can spread really easily between unvaccinated people. “Having two MMR vaccinations can provide lifelong protection and it’s never too late to catch up. I would urge anyone who is concerned that they or their child may not have had two doses, to check their Personal Child Health Record (PCHR) known as the ‘Redbook. “I would also encourage everyone to accept any routine vaccination invitations when offered by the NHS, or to contact their GP surgeries to catch up on any jabs they may have missed, especially those who missed their vaccinations since the start of Covid pandemic”
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BROXTOWE SITES WINS GREEN FLAG INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION AWARDS - By Peter Makossah
Environmentally beautiful Five of Broxtowe’s sites, which have been recognised for their ecological excellence, are celebrating after receiving the international quality mark for parks and green spaces.
Portfolio Holder for Environment, Councillor Helen Skinner, said “The news that these sites have achieved the Green Flag accreditation is testament to the hard work and dedication of the teams, as well as the Friends Groups and our community that help to manage and develop these green spaces.
The five spaces that received a Green Flag award are: Colliers Wood, Bramcote Hills, Alexandrina Plantation Nature Reserve, Brinsley Headstocks, “It is wonderful to have the care and effort that we put Bramcote Old Church Tower into our green spaces officially acknowledged as we ensure they are fit for our residents.” Bramcote Hills Park has been awarded a Green Flag every year since 2006 and Colliers Wood has received Sites and management plans are appraised by judges one every year since 2008. in the management of green spaces.
Colliers Wood, in particular, has received glowing All sites are scored across various areas which reflect praise this year. on how it is being managed, ensuring that it is a safe welcoming place for people to come and visit. Judges commented that the good standard of management and maintenance was clear to see from One Broxtowe resident, Jean-Rose Murambadoro, 62, the outset and described the space as an example to but originally from Masvingo in Zimbabwe who has many parks and green spaces up and down the country. lived in the area for the past 30 years in an interview with Mojatu Magazine said: The Green Flag Award scheme, managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy recognises and rewards well- “Local A Green Flag is a sign to the public that the space managed parks and green spaces, setting the standard for boasts very high standards, is well maintained and has the management of green spaces internationally. good facilities.”
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MIDLANDS RECEIVE FUNDING TO DEVELOP AMBITIOUS REGIONAL WOODLAND PROJECT - By Julius Mwangi Funding for the development of an ambitious project to create and connect our woodlands across the Midlands region has been announced, with the aim of increasing habitats for wildlife, improving wellbeing for communities and growing more low carbon jobs.
role and secure the benefits woods and trees bring to nature’s recovery and our own health and wellbeing.” Sir John Peace, chairman, Midlands Engine Partnership explained: “The Midlands Engine Partnership is committed to green growth, encouraging investment in economic sectors and natural assets that decarbonise our region and help to build a sustainable, resilient economy.
The Midlands Forest Network (MFN) is a forwardthinking initiative to encourage greater protection, This makes the Midlands Forest Network project more restoration, and creation of woods and trees across the vital, and I am delighted that this funding will now be whole Midlands region. used to develop such an exciting vision and attract Led by a partnership of the Woodland Trust, National investment into this crucial natural capital asset for Forest Company, and Midlands Engine, the MFN the region.” seeks to expand our existing woodlands and connect Trudy Harrison, Forestry Minister, said: “Projects them through new wooded corridors in the farmed like the Midlands Forest Network are vital in landscape, within towns and cities and along our ensuring communities can make the most of the transport networks. environmental and health benefits that expanded This ambitious project has now secured £230k from woodlands can bring. Defra’s Nature for Climate Fund and nearly £200k from “With the help of the government’s Nature for Climate the National Lottery Heritage Fund, with additional Fund, tree planting will increase across the Midlands financial support from the National Forest Company, region, helping to meet our target to treble tree Woodland Trust, and Midlands Engine. planting rates by the end of this Parliament and achieve Funding over the next two years will create a visionary net zero by 2050.” plan for the MFN, working closely with existing partners Robyn Llewellyn, Director, England, Midlands & East at and communities to identify opportunities for further The National Lottery Heritage Fund said: “It’s wonderful woodland creation, exploring people’s connections to hear how the team at The Woodland Trust, National to trees and woods and building momentum around Forest Company and Midlands Engine are exploring opportunities for attracting new investment. connections to woodlands by developing the Midlands John Everitt, chief executive The National Forest Forest Network. Company, said: “Our work in the National Forest over “Thanks to National Lottery players, we can support the last 30 years demonstrates how trees and woods important work, such as establishing the foundations can regenerate the landscape and transform lives and to facilitate positive change at landscape scale for livelihoods. natural heritage.” “Expanding this approach across the whole Midlands gives us real hope that we can mitigate and adapt to a changing climate, reversing biodiversity decline, improving the health of communities and shifting to a low carbon economy,” Everitt said. The Midlands region currently falls below the national average of 13.3 percent* woodland cover at just 7.4 percent. Toby Bancroft, Woodland Trust regional director said: “At a time where the threats from climate change and loss of nature are increasingly impacting our lives, there has never been a more critical time to recognise the
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NOTTINGHAMSHIRE POLICE CAUTIONS PUBLIC AGAINST FAKE AMAZON STAFF - By Peter Makossah
Detective Sergeant Sally Collins, of Nottinghamshire Police’s fraud unit, said that whilst a number of Amazonrelated scams were circulating, the tell-tale signs were similar.
Police in Nottinghamshire has issued a stern warning to the public to ‘stay woke’ against fake Amazon staff who are on the prowl scamming people. The police detectives’ stark warning comes hot on the wheels after a spate of scamming incidents occurred in the city in which crooks have been targeting unsuspecting residents robbing them money and personal information by false pretence. Cautioning the public, the law enforcers warned that over the past few weeks, a number of residents have been targeted by scammers who tried to steal their personal and financial information.
She said: “During the correspondence, the scammer will find a reason to request the personal She was told her account had been or financial information of the compromised and after gaining victim. They will typically ask victims the woman’s trust, the fraudster to provide their Amazon account instructed them to download numbers and log-in information, remote access software, which was their credit card number, or their subsequently used to access the Social Security number. victim’s online bank account.” “For example, they might call you The police have disclosed that a and say that someone has used Nottingham woman was duped your Amazon account to order an into spending £1,000 on Amazon expensive item such as a laptop. Gift Cards and passing over the Because the item was of a high serials numbers so they could be value, the representative says used after receiving an email from Amazon needs to verify that you a scammer posing as her manager. made the order. Said the police: “Meanwhile, a lady with dementia received an automated phone call stating someone had used her Amazon Prime account and they wanted to refund her £150.
Detective Collins said when you tell the representative that you did not make the order, the scammer will typically ask for your Amazon account log-in information and credit card number.
“She was instructed to press 1 to speak to a customer service representative and was put through to a male who knew her name and address. The male asked for her bank “In one incident in Forest Town, a details so Amazon could refund her woman lost £300 after receiving - but thankfully she refused after a call from someone claiming to suspecting it was a scam. be from “Amazon Prime security”.
She said: “It’s not surprising that Amazon scams have become increasingly common in recent years, as the more people who shop on the site, the more opportunities there are for criminals to con them out of their financial information.
Warned the police: “A number of scams are doing the rounds, with victims contacted out of the blue either by phone call, text message or email.
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NOT TINGHAM CARNIVAL 2023 OOZES MULTICULTURAL HERITAGE WITH GRANDEUR - By Peter Makossah Nestled in the heart of Nottingham, Victoria Embankment, the host for 2023 Caribbean Carnival, is a captivating crown jewel that boasts a beautiful panoramic landscape, rich history and is surrounded by the city’s iconic monuments. For fun lovers, the River Trent’s mound offers an aptly enchanting mix of picturesque view, which makes it the perfect spot for many events including one of the biggest multicultural fête in East Midlands, the customary brandmarked Nottingham Carnival.
Embankment on August 20, and was momentously dictated by beautiful pieces of music, astounding costumes, food stalls and heaps of funfair. At the crest of it all, this year’s event marked 75 years since the arrival of the Empire Windrush, which first brought the Caribbean culture to the UK, and exactly 65 years since Nottingham’s first outdoor Caribbean Carnival in 1958.
Sensational music acts It was a beautiful sunny Saturday with the weather displaying ample kindness, magnitudes of people from the city, county, surrounding areas and even from far and wide flocked to the Victoria embankment Nottingham Carnival which started at midday through to 20:00 hours.
The famed Nottingham Carnival, is a multicultural event, held every summer with an aim to bring all communities together for an artistic spectacle, of colour and solemnity, family enjoyment and excitement.
Throughout the day, the event was full of fanfare and grandeur, plenty of food, music and dance among This year, the highly rated all-inclusive multicultural others and there were four stages featuring a staggering Carnival held with extra bravado at Victoria over 30 separate sensational musical acts.
Nottingham connected The stages were The Main Stage, Troupe Stage, D9 Stage, Windrush Stage and Millennium Stage and the music genres in the package included Soca, Reggae, Afrobeat, Calypso, Salsa, RnB, Soul, Dancehall, Jungle, Grime, and Baseline House. There was a host of exciting acts that mesmerised the carnival patrons and they included Lila Ike, Wurl Sound, Lisa Hendricks, Seani B, V Rocket Int’l, NPA, Triniboi Joocie and Melonyx on the main stage and were all hosted by hosted by the spinning master, DJ Steel. The Carnival Parade To cap it all, the event has had a wide range of food stalls offering global cuisines available and there were also licensed bars selling both alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks with trade stalls and fairground rides within the Carnival site, alongside a kids zone with loads of children tailor-made activities. As always, the main event at colourful Nottingham Carnival is the parade and this year lasted one-andhalf hours and it began at 14:00 hours finished at 15:30 hours featuring at least 12 troupes from Nottingham, Leicester, Derby, Leeds, Huddersfield, Luton and London. The Parade can be watched from anywhere along the route, which will start on the Victoria Embankment, head up Wilford Grove, Felton Road and Green Street before making its way back down to the Embankment via Bunbury Street returning to the Carnival site via Wilford Grove. The Charitable Acts Mojatu Foundation, a local humanitarian charity, a charitable incorporated organisation which works to empower and support Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) communities in Nottingham and surrounding areas at risk from ongoing prejudice and whose needs are often overlooked mounted a stall at the event. According to Mojatu Foundation, the stall was mounted at the event to sensitise the public against the evils of racism, human rights abuse, particularity on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), Human Trafficking, Modern Day Slavery and immigration and the plight of asylum-seeking people and refugees. In an interview Mojatu Foundation mental Health specialist, Modupe Karen Akubor said: “Our work tackles discrimination and helps these communities who are often experiencing racial inequalities to have the opportunities, skills, and tools to feel they can participate in the wider community.
Arts & Culture 39 “We felt it was important to have a stall at this year’s Nottingham Carnival in order to reach out to people in the community on what we do which includes providing new migrants and refugees with the skills and training they need to integrate into life in the UK,” said Ms. Akubor.
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RIVERSIDE FESTIVAL 2023 MESMERISES NOTTINGHAM - By Peter Makossah Vienna with Hotel Balkan; and a sixpiece bhangra group Achanak took their turn to give the festival patrons a good run for their money. Closing the Monument Stage on Sunday were the Cajun Roosters, European purveyors of Cajun and Zydeco; Noga Ritter, whose music fuses Hebrew jazz with global grooves; and Grupo Lokito offering contemporary Congolese and Cuban music. The East Midlands’ biggest free family shindig, Riverside Festival, bounced back to its fold at the pinnacle of summer on the treasured Nottingham’s Victoria Embankment with fun-seekers getting a real deal this year. Organised by the city council, it was exquisite and heart-warmingly fun-filled with a mile-long stretch of fairground rides, games and with a myriad of attractions situated along the banks of the Trent, plus numerous street food vendors, bars and market stalls. Speaking to Mojatu Magazine Councillor Pavlos Kotsonis, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture at Nottingham City Council, said: “I’m pleased that the Riverside Festival returned home for 2023 along the banks of the river Trent as it has been for the last 40 years.” For the participating revellers, riverbased activities included Dragon Boat Racing, which has raised thousands of pounds for charities over the years. Music, as always has been the case, was at the heart of Riverside Festival, and this time it was no different with
The Big Top Stage played host to a a variety of solo artists, bands and buffet of DJs who spined and flexed musicians performing across three a variety of music - with big names stages. line-up - however, the emphasis In an interview, Kaydon Phillips, 23, shifted onto the next day where folk from Rivergreen Road in Clifton said: music was celebrated with best free “I have had the best time of my life in folk stage line-up in the UK.
these three days. What an experience. The acts performed dished out The Monument Stage hosted sumptuous music were 5 Hills Out, global music performances that are who delivered songs with an upbeat not usually seen in Nottingham, Agit-Folk edge: Del Scott Miller and including exciting and innovative his folk-blues-jazz vibe and Winter international acclaimed beats and Wilson among others and the levellers also enjoyed performances on the Big genres including Afro-beats. Top Stage from choral groups, Fun On Friday night, the headliners Chorus and Carlton Male Voice Choir, Buffo’s Wake took to the stage the seven-piece jazz band Cranberry and lived up to their billing and Flick and Jimmy Evans. mesmerised the audience, armed with their accordions, violins and a One of the most popular and fanbucket full of gusto, supported by favourite elements of the festival was the Afrobeat and reggae-inspired the fireworks display - it surely was a perfect August festival to remember Soothsayers. with fond memories with the tenThe next day, Saturday saw the minute spectacle, which saw crowds Senegalese soul band Awalé; Tiwiza, of up to 40,000 lining up the Trent taking the wheel and offered a fusion to watch, took place on Friday and of popular chaâbi riffs, Berber melodies Saturday night at 10.30pm prompt. and a distinct rock’n’roll spirit. Oladipo Adeyemi, a Nigerian Then the much-awaited Soukous international student at the band Kasai Masai took to the Nottingham Trent University said: “I stage and tickled the audience’s will remember this time the rest of excitement before Balkan beats from my life.”
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Arts & Culture 41
REMEMBERING ‘ ORGANIC INTELLECTUAL’ 2PAC - By Peter Makossah He transformed civil rights struggles into popular and unique artist, he has risen to the pedestal of myths, music and he’s among the best-selling music artists revolutionaries and civil rights fighters. in history, having sold more than 75 million records “He is the Shakespearean Malcolm X of his generation worldwide. who has prepared us for the world that awaited us in Much of his music is best known for addressing this century.” contemporary social issues that plague societies. Calling him an “organic intellectual,” Harvard academic He was an unclassifiable artist, who could not be scholar, Mark Anthony Neal, assessed his death as pigeonholed either as a tough or as a delicate artist. leaving a “leadership vacuum among hip-hop artists. Tupac was an extraordinarily well-read and wellTupac Amaru Shakur, better known by his stage rounded intellectual.” moniker, 2Pac and later by his alias, Makaveli, was an American songwriter and rapper, actor, poet, activist, a As Norwegian University of Oslo professor and spirited revolutionary and he is considered a symbol of academic Knut Aukrust puts it: “Tupac Amaru Shakur struggle and activism against inequality. is one of the most famous representatives of hip-hop culture and he has become an icon with saint status far Born Lesane Parish Crooks on June 16, 1971, and died on beyond fans and remains influential today because he September 13, 1996, 2Pac was a great reader, he loved defied every possible stereotype.” to create parallels between the works of authors such as Plato, Niccolò Machiavelli and William Shakespeare 2Pac broke into American music when the young with the dynamics of the boys of the black ghettos, re- black man was demonized and he appeared as an proposing it’s artistic, philosophical, poetic and literary unexpected hero and his greatest peculiarity is that characteristics. he was an exceptional poet – and his lyrics contained emotional depth – such that his hit single, Dear Mama, On September 7, 1996, at 11:15 p.m. 2Pac, a 25-yearis one of the first rap songs to be kept in the Library of old American rapper, was struck by four rounds of the US Congress. bullets fired from a 40-calibre Glock; two in the chest, one in the arm, and one in the thigh in the Las Vegas 2Pac’s message about systemic oppression and poverty Valley, Nevada. attracted many, even those whose experiences were very different from his own and thus he has become 27 years later, this year on September 29, 2023, Duane a symbol of possibility across the globe for offering “Keefe D” Davis was arrested after being indicted by poignant criticisms of contemporary inequalities. a grand jury for the first-degree murder of Tupac Shakur Makaveli, like Martin Luther King and Malcolm X, is Chuck Philips, Pulitzer Prize-winning music journalist, martyred and sainted for his music and activism have said in 2002: “Shakur had helped elevate rap from a imprinted a generational indelible impact on humankind. street fashion to a complex art form, setting the stage for today’s hip hop global phenomenon and one of the His legacy lives on. most eloquent voices in modern music.” The Changes content creator, 2Pac, did more for the lives of millions of black people than any president before or after his existence, and his most significant impact comes from the stream of consciousness provided by his music. Patrice Musarurwa, a Nottingham based businessperson and hip-hop music fanatic said: “2Pac upset the established order. He had a great political, social and cultural impact. In addition to becoming an essential, indisputable, poetic
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44 Arts & Culture
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GOOSE FAIR ILLUMINATES NOTTINGHAM - By Peter Makossah
Shielding her hazel brown eyes from the September sunrays, she peeked a glance at her 10-year-old daughter and 15-year-old son standing in front of her, satisfied.
Star Flyer, and two giant wheels giving panoramic views across the fair and the city beyond.
It was a family affair.
didn’t disappoint as there was plenteous traditional fairground favourites of mushy peas, Grantham gingerbread and Cock-on-a-Stick, and the patrons has had an opportunity to eat their way around the world with a diverse range of sumptuous food from Greek to Caribbean and from African to Panjabi cuisines.
All the Goose Fair classics were also in attendance in the likes of The Skid, Gallopers and the Cake Walk – the only She was at the summit of blitz and glitzy glittering ride still operating that featured when the fair was held pomp of British most treasured fair, the Goose Fair at at Old Market Square – plus lots of side-show games the Forest Recreation Ground - a fair that is fair to every such as hook-a-duck and basketball. one of every race, age and culture. Best known for great food, this year’s Goose Fair Cloudless cobalt skies and the Hyson Green cool breezes accompanied by affable temperatures in the ranges of 20 degrees celcius was perfect for the 10day family jamboree, a far cry from the typical British autumn weather. Here, the gods were generous as the meteorological conditions provided a conducive environment for the occasion.
The Lord Mayor of Nottingham, Councillor Carole McCulloch marked the official opening of Goose “I am having the best time of with my kids. Goose Fair Fair, and the Fair Charter Proclamation was read by is just an incredible joint for family entertainment,” said Nottingham City Council’s Chief Executive Mel Barrett Jasmine Mensah, a Ghanaian-born mother of two, who traditionally this takes place on the first Thursday in October. A Royal Charter for the Goose Fair was resides Sherwood Rise. granted by King Edward I in 1284. Goose Fair, which has been running annually for many eons, is an amazing retreat on the fringes of sprawling Nearly half a million people go to Nottingham Goose city of Nottingham, and this year it returned with tonnes Fair, making it one of the biggest funfairs in Europe – of grandiose fête at the Forest Recreation Grounds from but its early origins have as much to do with cheese fights and trouser sellers as Geese. Officially Europe’s Friday, September 29th to Sunday, October 8th. biggest traveling fair, the Goose Fair is a year event that With more than 500 rides and attractions and thrills both residents and tourists flock to every single year. aplenty for all ages, Goose Fair is one of the largest travelling funfairs in Europe and has been staged The Goose Fair is different every year, but with over 700 years of history under its belt it’s had time to annually in Nottingham since at least 1284. perfect the event – and it really has. Braai King director This year, there were new rides, and these includes Patrice Musarurwa who had an African food stall at this the TipTop and Xcelerator, as well as lots of the usual year’s Goose Fair said: “It was great and illuminating. favourites such as Reverse Bungee, Ice Jet Matterhorn, Every one had fun.”
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Arts & Culture 45
THOUSANDS CELEBRATE NOTTINGHAMSHIRE DAY AT SHERWOOD FOREST IN GRAND STYLE - By Peter Makossah The heavens opened her bosoms and it drizzledlike in Inspire’s the Big Draw and browsing stalls hosted by hell, but this, never dampened the vibe and the Nottinghamshire attractions. mood of the day’s groove - It only acted as fuel for There were also superb performances from The an action-packed shindig for the levellers. Medieval Maniax and Bill Brookman, historical reenactment from The Ferrers Household and the College of Chivalry, terrific tales from Storytellers Past Imagined, and the wonderful Medieval melodies of Sloe Gin. Legendary Outlaw Councillor John Cottee, Cabinet Member for Communities said: “The rain showers didn’t dampen the spirits at this year’s Nottinghamshire Day celebrations. It was great to see so many people come together to celebrate our great county in the home of our legendary outlaw, Robin Hood. “The performances were fantastic, and I was delighted to see many eventgoers get into the spirit and donned Robin Hood hats and dressed up for the occasion. Rob Brackley, aka Robin Hood, was in action on the day courtesy of Notts Outdoors, the county council’s outdoor education service. He said, “It was a real party atmosphere with a medieval vibe!” Glamour, pomp, providence and grandeur marked the glorious Nottinghamshire Day celebrations which was aptly held at the splendid Sherwood Forest County Park where more than two thousand people, all looking the part and dressed to thrill, attended the occurring peculiarity in grand style.
Roselyn Mazangwira, a mother of three from Mansfield, said in an interview: “We had a blast. I and the kids had too much fun. We will cherish this day for a lifetime. Sherwood Forest is not only historical, but it is also a great place to enjoy.”
It was all a cultural kismet pregnant with pride for a city and county that thrives in all stuff of legend.
Sherwood is a touchstone for the county’s cultural and natural heritage, and it has been a privilege to be chosen as the venue for our county day festivities once again.
The free-to-attend event was a celebration of all things Nottinghamshire, led by the County Council working with partners such as RSPB, Notts Outdoors and Inspire, as part of the annual Robin Hood Festival. The event was a follow-up to Nottinghamshire Day itself which is marked every 25 August.
Nottinghamshire Day is an opportunity to celebrate the identity, heritage, culture, and local traditions of our county. It is a way to champion our local communities, to better understand and celebrate the histories and traditions of the places we live, work and enjoy in our leisure time.
A new all-action arena combat show from the Sherwood Outlaws, ‘Battle for the Greenwood’ proved to be a real crowd pleaser as crowds also enjoyed activities including archery and axe throwing, getting involved
Nottinghamshire Day takes place on the 25 August as this date marks the anniversary of the start of the English Civil War, an event triggered by Charles I, raising the royal standard at Nottingham Castle in 1642.
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46 Arts & Culture
‘AFRICAN BUTTER’ GUNNING FOR SPLENDOUR FESTIVAL 2024 - By Peter Makossah “It was my first time in Nottingham, and it was love at first sight. It is a great city with a very rich history, and I enjoyed visiting the monumental treasures of the city including The Nottingham Castle, Sherwood Forest, Wollaton Hall and deer Park, Newstead Abbey, the Arboretum, the caves of Nottingham and the National Justice Museum.” The Solomon hitmaker disclosed that his management team are working hard behind the scenes to secure a spot in next year’s flagship music festival, the Splendour, which is organised and managed by the Nottingham City Council. Said Onesimus: “We are exploring how to be part of this great music festival, the Splendour so that we can bring the African vibe to it and above all else showcase the allure and brilliance of Malawian rhythm and dance.” Lucius Banda and Lulu were the first African musician to grace the Nottingham Music Festival in 2009 in its formative years and they both lived up to the billing. Splendour Festival is Nottinghamshire’s biggest festival. One of Africa’s emerging kaleidoscopic talents, multi-award-winning songster, Onesimus, who is fondly known as the ‘African Butter’ says he is routing to be part of one of the UK’s biggest music festivals, the Nottingham Splendour, next year. The South Africa based Afro-pop music protégé, Onesimus, who was recently in the UK on a tour of duty and performed in Nottingham City Centre under the auspices of BBC 1Xtra in collaboration with one of Britain’s most influential Afro-beats radio personality and Disco Jockey, DJ Edu host of Destination Africa, told Mojatu Magazine in an interview that he fell in love with Nottingham. Onesimus, a songwriter, producer, singer, and performer, a Malawian music royalty, whose real name is Armstrong Kaluwa, revealed that he fell in love with the famed Robinhood city, Nottingham, for its multiracial and multicultural diversity describing it as a city for everyone. Said Onesimus: “I have recently been on tour in the UK, and I performed in several cities in England and Wales, but it is Nottingham, which stole my heart. In the past tours I have had visited other cities including London, Birmingham, Manchester and Coventry.
Set in the beautiful surroundings of Wollaton Hall and Deer Park, attendees can enjoy five stages of music that spans all genres; from fast-rising stars to world-class performers, and musical icons, Splendour line-ups are always a wonderful mix of acts that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
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Arts & Culture 47
AFRICA FASHION WEEK 2023 RETURNS - By Amanda Makossah
It is an unmissable indulgence into a night of glitz and glamour, music, and fashion at the one of greatest avenues of grandiose creativity where art meets innovation and Africa faces the world. Here’s is where African creatives, content creators, fashionistas and aficionados all celebrate the African heritage and modern allure.
October after moving from their base at Freemasons’ Hall due to construction works back to London Olympia, at the magnificent Pall Mall, where they were housed from 2014 - 2016.
One of the participating designers is a Lagos-based, but Nottinghamborn fashion designer and a business proprietor director, Damilola Olufunke says the AFWL is the best This is an occasion that unveils of place to rub shoulders with industry the heart of African culture fused influencers, fashion enthusiasts, and with contemporary trends including the artists in a setting adorned with a Catwalk that plods in grand style cultural richness and contemporary with a unique allure and elegance. elegance. Thirteen years on the bounce, and She said: “It is time to secure the prestigious Africa Fashion Week an immerse once in a lifetime London (AFWL) is still one of the opportunity in an evening of most consistent and unswerving high-fashion, exclusive music and Fashion Weeks in the world. performance to get a rare chance of After a brilliant showing at Africa unparalleled networking and social Fashion Week Brasil, AFWL has capital opportunities.” returned home, to the UK, with an Year in, year out, the AFWL patrons extra-bravado thus bringing a little are guaranteed an exquisite samba heat to the proceedings. experience on live performances of The signature African Fashion various highly rated international Week London, which is a pinnacle artists with the incredible Valentine of style and a sense of heritage and Chuddy K delivering a and exquisiteness bounced back spellbinding blend of melody and to take the capital, by storm this cultural tribute.
According to the organisers, the AFWL this year hosts the UK-Africa Trade Expo in which emerging young African stylists and designers takes the centre stage in participating to high-level panel talks and workshops and displaying and selling their merchandise at the fabulous exhibitor stands. The Catwalk Show promises a display of exquisite fashion collections from renowned designers, brought to life on a runway graced by professional models. Founded in 2011 by Queen Ronke Ademiluyi-Ogunwusi, the AFWL) is Europe’s largest fashion event promoting and nurturing African and African-inspired design talent. With a collaborative catwalk, exhibition, and business development program, AFWL has led the way in highlighting Africa’s emerging designers and the apparel industry. “We’ve been at the forefront of bringing awareness of Africa’s burgeoning fashion industry to the international market, said the founding director, Queen Ronke Ademiluyi-Ogunwusi matter-of-factly.
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48 Health & Food
NEW PUBLIC HEALTH PROBLEM AS STDs INCREASE BY 24% IN ENGLAND - By Peter Makossah
The latest UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) figures prove that the government has no vision or ambition for improving sexual health, the Terrence Higgins Trust, a leading British Sexual Health charity has declared.
health services to a minimal disease management process.”
Angell pointed out that testing rates remain lower than pre-COVID, but the number of STIs being diagnosed are exceeding the high levels reported Terrence Higgins Trust’s scathing attack on before the pandemic. government comes hot on the wheels as published statistics show that there were 392,453 sexually “In 2022, more than 1,000 STIs were diagnosed transmitted infections (STIs) reported in England in on average every day, and two years of social distancing resulted in a small drop in transmission 2022 - a 24% rise on the previous year. rates, but numbers are surging again because Richard Angell, Chief Executive officer for Terrence sexual health services and public health budgets Higgins Trust, said: “Today’s significant rise in have been cut to the bone. sexually transmitted infections is a worrying testament to the fact that there is no vision or “This was exacerbated and laid bare by last year’s mpox outbreak, which left sexual health clinics in ambition for improving sexual health in England. the most affected areas unable to provide HIV and He added: “We’ve seen cuts where we need to STI testing due to the displacement of these core see investment. This has reduced our sexual and vital services,” said Angell.
Nottingham connected
Health & Food 49
Angell hinted that until sexual health is properly Government for its their work to make the UK the resourced - with an appointment easier to access first in the world to end new cases of HIV by 2030. than at present - we won’t see the number of STIs Mr. Sunak, in thanking Nicola for her campaigning heading in the right direction. in this area, said: “I’m pleased that she highlighted Shocking data that the provisional data from NHS England indicates that the opt-out testing programme has The new data shows a jump in the most common been highly successful. STIs, including a 50% rise in gonorrhoea and 15% in syphilis, and this, according to UKSHA, is Public Problem exacerbating health inequalities as people of Black Caribbean ethnicity had the highest diagnosis rates In Nottingham and the entire East Midlands, STIs represent an important public health problem in of the STIs. the East Midlands - out of all the UK Health Security Furthermore, the number of STI diagnoses in gay Agency (UKHSA)’s regions it has the median rate of and bisexual men increased in this period - rates of new STIs in England. gonorrhoea increase 41% while syphilis saw a 13% 20,871 new STIs were diagnosed in East Midlands rise and there is no plan to change this. residents in 2021, representing a rate of 429 Reads the UKHSA report: “Year after year the same diagnoses per 100,000 population and the rates groups are most impacted by STIs, including young by upper tier local authority (UTLA) ranged from people, gay and bisexual men, people living with 262 new STI diagnoses per 100,000 population HIV and those of Black Caribbean ethnicity.” in Rutland to 937 new STI diagnoses per 100,000 population in Nottingham. However, UK Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak has reiterated of his administration’s intrinsic The number of new STIs diagnosed in East Midlands responsibility to end new cases of HIV after being residents increased by 4% between 2020 and 2021 questioned by Conservative MP for West Bromwich and increases were seen in the numbers of most East, Nicola Richards MP. of the five major STIs: syphilis, chlamydia, genital herpes, and genital warts. At Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, Nicola Richards MP called The white ethnic group has the highest number on Rishi Sunak to expand opt-out HIV testing to of new STI diagnoses: 14,430 (81%), although only all emergency departments (A&Es) in areas with a 2% of new STIs are in the black Caribbean ethnic high HIV prevalence and sexual health. group, they have the second highest rate: 1,473 per 100,000, which is four times the rate seen in the Speaking in the House of Commons, Nicola praised white ethnic group.
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50 Community
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52 Health & Food
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NEW COVID STRAIN ON THE RISE, WHO WARNS - By Julius Mwangi The World Health Organisation has issued a warning to see concerning trends for Covid-19 ahead of the about a worrisome rise of the new Covid-19 strain, winter season in the Northern Hemisphere. Deaths are Pirola. increasing in some parts of the Middle East and Asia, intensive care unit admissions are increasing in Europe, A new variant of Covid-19 has shown ‘concerning and hospitalisations are increasing in several regions.” trends’, with deaths soaring in parts of the Middle East and Asia and the number of people entering intensive Kinterbish Junior High School in Alabama has care rising in Europe, warned The World Health requested that all students, staff and visitors don masks Organisation. in hallways and classes ‘due to the slow rise of Covid cases in the area’. Pirola, has caused some concern for experts, though the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is still investigating Alabama’s Talladega City School district (with more the strain. WHO issued the warning following reports of than 1,700 students) has also issued the request to staff a dangerous new strain, BA.2.86 (or Pirola), taking hold and children, they are ‘encouraged but not required’. in the Northern Hemisphere. Although there were only a few cases, a Maryland elementary school experienced controversy this week It is expected it will soon become the dominant strain after demanding pupils wear tight-fitting N95 masks in the UK, with the country highlighted as a hub of for 10 days. cases and the scientists say there could be as many as 30 mutations of Pirola, making it harder for the World In New York, health officials have increased messaging Health Organisation to keep a tab on its circulation. around mask-wearing, distributing them to state schools, and on the West Coast in Los Angeles, face The number of mutations also sparked initial fears it coverings are strongly encouraged in some classrooms. could be harder for our immunity to fend off. Dr Scott Roberts, an infectious disease specialist, said: It’s now estimated there are Pirola cases in most UK «Such a high number of mutations is notable. regions since it was first detected in Denmark in July. When we went from (Omicron variant) XBB.1.5 to As of September 18, the highly mutated strain from the (Eris) EG.5, that was maybe one or two mutations, but Omicron variant has now been confirmed in 54 positive these massive shifts, which we also saw from Delta to Covid-19 cases. Coronavirus rates are steadily rising Omicron, are worrisome.” across the UK as children have returned to school and the days are starting to get colder. Maria Van Kerkhove, the WHO’s technical lead on Covid-19, highlighted the importance of testing and It is believed there could be hundreds of thousands vaccination as flu and RSV are also circulating. However, of people currently in hospital with the virus globally, preliminary data suggests that existing vaccines will according to the UN health agency, but these figures offer a degree of protection against BA.2.86, she said. could be higher as many nations have stopped reporting Covid-19 data. A surge in cases has been seen in the United States, with Priola thought to be gaining traction as winter approaches. In a bulletin, Yale Medicine said the latest variant has more than 30 mutations to its spike protein - this is found on the outer layer of a coronavirus and allows it to infect our cells - and in response to this worrying trend, including a reported jump in cases, schools across the United States have started reintroducing mask mandates in schools. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (speaking at an online press conference) said: “We continue
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Health & Food 53
STRESS ISN’T JUST IN YOUR MIND, IT AFFECTS THE BODY, TOO - By Saida Barbar Often known as the silent killer, stress works beneath the surface and physically impacts every part of the body with its ripple effects manifesting across various body parts, thereby impacting the overall health of the body.
stress can elevate blood pressure, heightening the risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart attack, and stroke. Stomach and gut
during sleep. “Teeth grinding (bruxism) is often linked to stress, but lots of people aren’t aware they have the condition because it happens in their sleep,” says Powles.
Stress triggers the release of cortisol, the stress hormone, inducing Symptoms include headaches, jaw As the spotlight on mental health cravings for carbs and altering pain, teeth breakage, and facial intensifies, more individuals are eating patterns. Digestive functions swelling. turning to mindfulness, meditation may be disrupted, leading to upset and talking therapies to combat Inflammageing stomachs or even diarrhoea. stress. While these strategies can be effective, it’s crucial to understand Dr Patel explains: “With an The term “inflammageing” has been a focal point in longevity that stress isn’t just ‘all in your immediate stress reaction, head’ and that it can also have a everything else in your body has to discussions. It means chronic inflammation that has a damaging significant physical impact. stop. This means you can start to get effect and is caused by a variety of those symptoms of diarrhoea, upset Dr Luke Powles, associate clinical diet and lifestyle factors. stomach, that kind of thing, because director at Bupa Health Clinics, said: all those digestive processes must “Stress accelerates ageing, and then “Stress is how you feel and respond have to halt in order to manage there’s a whole cascade of stuff when life puts you under a lot of your stress.” that goes on as a result of that,” pressure.” says Patel. “It affects your immune Chronic stress is also linked to That’s why it’s vital to look at the response, the communication worsening pre-existing conditions sources of stress in your life and be between your cells, muscle function like irritable bowel syndrome, aware of both the short and longand your bones.” asthma and eczema. “If you have a term symptoms. Here’s how stress pre-existing health condition, stress can affect different parts of the could make it worse, or flare up,” body: said Dr Powles. Heart and lungs Muscles When stress strikes, it’s like sprinting Stress prompts muscle spasms up flights of stairs. Your heart races, and tension in neck muscles, often and you find yourself breathing culminating in headaches. faster to supply your body with oxygen. “People don’t necessarily associate headaches with muscles, but you “Immediately, you’re going to get can get spasms in your upper neck an increase in your heart rate, with muscles and shoulders,” Dr Patel that almost panic attack or anxietysaid, adding; “You feel the tension in like feeling,” said Dr Alka Patel, aka the muscles going over your scalp the Health Hacktivation Doctor. and that’s why we call these tension “Sweaty palms and an accelerated headaches.” heart rate result from your blood vessels expanding to enhance Teeth and mouth blood flow.” Stress is no friend to your oral While stress doesn’t directly cause health. Teeth grinding, or bruxism, coronary heart disease, long-term often tied to stress, can occur
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54 Health & Food
SUBTLE CHANGE IN SLEEP PATTERN COULD BE DEMENTIA’S SILENT ALARM - By Angela Wathoni Although many of us have always known memory loss as the most obvious symptoms of dementia, there are other, less apparent warning signs to look out for - such as a change in sleeping pattern.
endorsed by the Royal College of GPs, to support people to get a vital diagnosis. There are many types of dementia, but Alzheimer’s disease is the most common and the next most common is vascular dementia.
Most of us might think we know the obvious sign of dementia - including memory loss. But that’s not the only tell - dementia affects the way you speak, think, feel and behave. That’s why it can have various symptoms affecting your whole body - and some are less obvious.
A report in 2019, commissioned by Alzheimer’s Society from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), set out estimates for the number of people with dementia and the cost of dementia care in the UK with projections to 2040.
Dementia is a syndrome associated with an ongoing decline of brain function, and although there is currently no cure, it’s important to pick up on warning signs as soon as possible so the person affected can get treatment and support.
The report found there are currently around 900,000 people with dementia in the UK. This is projected to rise to 1.6 million people by 2040.
209,600 people will develop dementia this year, that’s one every three minutes. It is estimated that 70 per Experts at Winstons Beds have now warned that subtle cent of people in care homes have dementia or severe changes in sleeping patterns could actually be a ‘silent memory problems. It is estimated that 60 per cent of alarm’ for dementia. people who draw on support from homecare are people living with dementia. According to many research studies, changes in sleeping patterns during our mid-life could be an There are over 42,000 people under 65 with dementia indicator of the condition - The studies show links in the UK. This is known as young-onset dementia and between people who slept fewer than six hours during more than 25,000 people from Black, Asian and minority middle age, and the likelihood of developing dementia ethnic groups in the UK are affected by dementia. - It found that they were more likely to develop the In 2023, recorded dementia diagnosis indicates that condition than those who had seven or more hours. 438,213 patients had a recorded diagnosis of dementia There’s evidence that those who have Alzheimer’s on 28 February 2023, an increase of 6,368 patients since disease or other forms of dementia often struggle with January 31st, 2023. changing sleep patterns. Diagnosis rate in those aged 65 and over is pegged at Experts believe certain parts of the brain control the 62.0% of patients aged 65 or over who are estimated to sleep-wake cycles, which cause these shifts. have dementia, had a recorded diagnosis of dementia on 28 February 2023, an increase from 61.8% on 31 For those with dementia, it’s believed the shift to poor January 2023. sleep is caused by the protein amyloid. It’s seen that patients with Alzheimer’s usually have higher levels of 232,299 (53.0%) of those with a recorded diagnosis of amyloid in their brains, causing disrupted sleep. dementia on February 28th, 2023, had their medication reviewed between 01 April 2022 and 28 February 2023. Dementia, a group of symptoms, is a progressive condition that affects memory, thinking and behavioural patterns and it is caused by different diseases that damage the brain. Dementia symptoms get worse over time and include; memory loss, confusion and needing help with daily tasks, problems with language and understanding and changes in behaviour. Alzheimer’s Society has produced a symptoms checklist,
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Health & Food 55
AMBULANCE CREWS LOST 2 MILLION HOURS IN HOSPITALS’ QUEUES - By Julius Mwangi Significant Improvement Martin Flaherty, the managing director of AACE, said: “We have seen significant improvements in some areas, (but) it is clear from the data that we remain in a precarious position.” Saffron Cordery, the deputy chief executive of NHS Providers, said: “Rising handover delays over the last decade are symptomatic of the relentless pressure on the whole health and care system.” However, latest reports now indicate that there has been a “significant improvement” in how quickly East Midlands Ambulance Service is able to hand patients over to care in hospitals.
Ambulances across the UK were stuck in queues waiting to hand patients over to Accident and Emergency (A&E) staff. Hospital handover delays can lead to paramedics spending hours waiting to discharge patients into emergency departments. A new report has highlighted the staggering hours which was lost by ambulance crews due to delays in handing over patients to hospital staff. According to the report, ambulance crews lost almost two million hours while waiting in queues to hand over patients to A&E staff in England last year, a new report has revealed. Handover delays exceeding an hour were around 13 times higher in December 2022 compared to the same month in 2012.
In July 2022, EMAS lost a total of 14,700 hours due to handover delays, National guidance states that patients which equated to an average of 429 should be handed over within 15 hours a day and the latest statistics minutes - but the Association of for July 2023 reveal that 6,218 hours Ambulance Chief Executives (AACE) were lost - or 214 hours a day on said in the 12 months to March 2023, average. around two million hours had been The EMAS ambulance service covers lost due to delays exceeding this Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, target. Leicestershire, Rutland, Lincolnshire In December 2022, three quarters and Northamptonshire. exceeded the 15-minute target, it has EMAS has taken fewer calls too - in been said. June 2023 the service took on average An AACE report said in the 12 months 290 fewer calls per day than it did in to March 2023, around 868,000 hours June 2022 - but compared to 2022/23 had been lost due to delays of an hour EMAS is responding to, on average, 65 or more. The report stated that in more incidents a day. December 2012, England saw around A man who lost his pregnant 5,226 handover delays over an hour. wife at Queens Medical Centre But in December 2022, there were (QMC) due to an ambulance 66,000 - although the AACE said that delay to hand over her to A&E longer delays ‘have shown signs of staff lamented in an interview: receding’ since the beginning of this “It is painful that these delays are happening, and precious lives are financial year but ‘remain very high’. being lost. I lost two.”
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Health & Food 57
RISING FOOD COSTS LEAD TO PRICE RISE FOR NOTTS SCHOOLS - By Julius Mwangi
Major financial pressures including the rising food, staff and energy costs will mean the cost of a school meal, supplied by the County Council to schools, will go up by 40p.
“Unfortunately, we have little option but to propose a moderate increase for schools.” Councillor Tracey Taylor, Nottinghamshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Families added,
The price charged by the council to schools for a meal “While this is not a decision we have taken lightly, the will increase from £2.55 to £2.95 and will take effect increase compares favourably with other providers, and from October 16, 2023. we continue to contribute towards the overall costs of providing the meals. It is down to the schools’ discretion whether they pass on this increase to parents and guardians. The new price still represents very good value for these high quality, nutritionally balanced Councillor John Cottee, Nottinghamshire County meals that we provide to schools for the children. Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, explains the decision. He said, “We have contacted all of the schools we provide meals “Rising inflation has a big impact on us all and we know to since the beginning of the new term, this includes it’s been a tough time for local families. “High food and emails and letters, as well as speaking to the majority staff costs have caused major financial pressures for our of schools via phone to ensure they are aware of these catering service team, which we have considered when changes and can pass on this information to parents and guardians where relevant.” reviewing our school meal prices.
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MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING SUPPORT
You are not alone We provide free emotional support and signposting
How we help Nottingham connected How we can can help you you Our Our work work tackles tackles discrimination discrimination and racial inequalities and racial inequalities within within ethnic minority. ethnic minority. We We provide provide self-management self-management skills to help skills to help reduce reduce anxiety, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, depression, panic attacks, and and post-traumatic post-traumatic stress stress disorder disorder 1-2-1 1-2-1 wellbeing wellbeing drop-in drop-in session session and and community community wellbeing activities. wellbeing activities. Physical and mental health awareness. We provide confidential and comprehensive consultationliasion service for individuals who require further support on mental health, emotional and psychological needs.
We are located at: The Howitt Building, Lenton Boulevard, Nottingham. NG7 2BG
About us 59 Community About us
Mojatu Foundation is a Mojatu Foundation is a charitable charitable Incorporated Incorporated Organisation Organisation that that works works to to empower and support ethnic empower and support ethnic minority minority communities communities across across Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and and Berkshire Berkshire at at risk risk from from ongoing ongoing prejudice prejudice and and whose whose needs are often overlooked. needs are often overlooked.
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60 Business & Finance
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41% OF HOMEOWNERS WILL STILL BE PAYING MORTGAGES AFTER PENSION IN THEIR OLD AGE - By Peter Makossah Skyrocketing interest rates and inflationary slash mortgage rates, adding that borrowers still must pressures have created an unstainable situation contend with high costs. across different age groups. However, this means they will have to continue paying their mortgages into retirement, likely using their state pension, investments and savings and this could also mean that retirees must keep working to stay afloat – or risk losing significant parts of their pension engulfed by ongoing direct debits. Consumer credit agency Equifax said rising rates mean 41 per cent of live UK mortgages are held by those who will be beyond retirement age (66+) at maturity, with more than a quarter held by people over 70 at maturity. Paul Heywood, the chief data and analytics officer at Equifax UK, said: “Despite inflationary pressures slowing down and early signs of rate cuts among lenders, the high-interest rate environment means there are still tough times ahead for mortgage borrowers. Faced with higher monthly repayments, many borrowers are extending their loan terms for years into the future, hoping to spread out costs to ease the financial burden.When looking at UK mortgage borrowers with loans that wouldn’t mature until they are over 66, 40 per cent are already aged 55 or over and Around 41 per cent of UK homeowners will have to have a mortgage balance of more than £100,000. continue paying off their mortgages into their 70s, Almost half as many borrowers are 55+ and have impacting any retirement plans, new data has revealed, contractual repayments of more than £1,000. The full and pensioners have been warned they face high new state pension is £203.85 per week, meaning it monthly repayments of more than £1,000. wouldn’t cover monthly mortgage payments if they With fixed-rate mortgage deals remaining roughly six were around £1,000. per cent, UK homeowners are increasingly selecting 40Monthly repayments have risen by 15 per cent year-onyear mortgage terms or extended leases to keep their year, as UK interest rates have risen to a 15-year high of repayments low. 5.25 per cent, with the number of monthly mortgages A Nottingham based Mortgage expert Louis Johnson- with more than £1,000 in repayments rising by 28 per Baines said: “Some people in Nottingham and the UK cent year-on-year. at large could be forced to release equity to obtain cash People close to retirement age could see more lender without selling their homes to counteract this. extensions, meaning they’ll have higher monthly “The skyrocketing interest rates and inflationary repayments on top of high food and utility expenses. pressures in Nottingham, as well as the rest of the The average pension pot is £107,300 – less than UK, have created an unsustainable situation across required for a comfortable retirement, according to the different age groups.” ONS; Age UK reported that 22 per cent of pensioners Johnson-Baines said with escalating home loan market had reduced their medicine spending, and five per cent competition, some large UK lenders have begun to were skipping meals.
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Business & Finance 61
HOUSE PRICES SPIRAL DOWNWARDS IN THE UK - By Julius Mwangi The average UK house price fell in August, this year, at the sharpest rate seen in 14 years, marking the largest annual percentage drop since July 2009, according to a leading Building Society, Nationwide.
indicates the weakness has been maintained, and a ‘relatively soft landing is still achievable’ if broader economic conditions develop with expectations, Gardner said.
mortgage have slowed much more sharply’. Mortgage completions in the first half of the year were a third (33 per cent) lower than 2019 levels, with first-time buys being 25 per cent lower and buy-to-let purchases Robert said: “In particular, with a mortgage down by almost 30 unemployment is expected to per cent, he said. remain low, and the vast majority of existing borrowers should be able Robert said: “The relative weakness to weather the impact of higher of mortgage activity reflects borrowing costs given the high mounting affordability pressures proportion on fixed rates, and where as a result of the sharp rise in affordability testing should ensure mortgage rates since last autumn, that those needing to refinance can which would not have affected cash buyers. afford the higher payments.
“While activity is likely to remain subdued in the near term, healthy rates of nominal income growth, The building society said house together with modestly lower prices fell by 5.3 per cent annually, house prices, should help to with property values falling by improve housing affordability 0.8 per cent month-on-month in over time, especially if mortgage rates moderate once (the Bank of August. England base rate) peaks.” It said the average property value is now £259,153, with house prices The chief economist said cashat 5.3 per cent or around £14,600, based purchases (up by two per below their peak in the same month cent) have been ‘remarkably last year. Robert Gardner, the chief resilient while purchases involving a economist at Nationwide, said August saw a ‘further softening’ in the annual rate of house price growth to minus 5.3 per cent, from minus 3.8 per cent in July, the ‘weakest rate’ since July 2009. He said the softening ‘is not surprising, given the extent of the rise in borrowing costs in recent months, which has resulted in activity in the housing market running well below pre-pandemic levels’. Mortgage approvals are roughly 20 per cent below the 2019 average, mortgage application data
Nottingham based Chris Richards, a senior research analyst at estate agent, Knight Frank, said: “The Bank of England’s rate-setting decision would be a ‘key moment’ for the UK housing market. “However, demand should prove more resilient than expected given the shockabsorber effect of strong wage growth, lockdown savings, the availability of longer mortgage terms, flexibility from lenders and the popularity of fixed-rate deals in recent years.”
62 News & Sports
Nottingham connected News Sports 63 43 News && Sports Female Genital Mutilation
FGM – FACTS , HELP & ACTIONS Facts
• FGM is any procedure that intentionally alter or cause injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. • FGM has been illegal in England and Wales since 1985. • FGM is a form of child abuse and violence against women and girls. • • FGM is Non-Islamic, against the teachings of Islam and brings Islam into disrepute. • FGM is putting the health of our daughters, sisters, mothers and wives at great risk. • • Over 200 million girls and women worldwide have undergone FGM. • 103,000 women aged15 to 49 are living with consequences of FGM in England & Wales. • In the UK, an estimated 20,000 girls under the age of 15 are at risk of FGM each year. • 1,230 cases have been reported in the Midlands from April 2020 to March 2021 Taking Th
Taking The City To the Fa Taking The City To the Farm
Help
Are you concerned a girl or woman is at risk or need of support? • • Join the Community FGM Steering Group: Contact us • For emotional & peer support for survivors in Nottingham, join the FGM Survivor’s club: Contact us Free • Refer survivors needing medical attention to FGM medical specialist in Nottingham: Contact us Free Sessions: Refugee • Drop in sessions at Mojatu Office Unit 7, Howitt Bldg, Lenton Blvd, Lenton, Nott`s NG7 2BY Free Refugees & Asylum Seeker Sessions: • Call 0808 028 350 for a 24/7 anonymous FGM helpline or email: fgmhelp@nspcc.org.uk Tuesdays Seekers Welcome Sessions: • Call Nottingham City Council Children and Families Direct: 0115 876 4800 Tuesdays Saturdays • Ring the police on 999 if FGM has just happened or about to happen Tuesdays Saturdays ADOP Activities include: Saturdays ADOPT A TREE include:Fruit Harvesting Actions Activities Tree Management Fruit Harvesting Activities include: To help end FGM and support survivors, join one of our campaigns or projects Fruit Harvesting Tree ManagementWeeding for Pumpkin • FGM Survivors Club • Volunteer with us Feeding the animals Weeding for Pumpkins & Maize Tree Management Form • FGM Steering Group • ‘Adopt a tree’ project Feeding the animals Weeding for Pumpkins & Maize Form online @https://g • FGM Global Faith Ambassador • Donate to support our work animals to support https://goo.gl/WyH • FGM Global Young Ambassador Feeding •the Fundraise our work land 9sz
Woodgement d n a l d o Wo gement ManeassionEDIBL s E d n a S WOODLA l d 18Farm, Scre ‘ s p Woo gement MaSneassionEDIBLE e S Ecocentre, Home r Ap www.farmeco WOODLAND ana ionFoundation For more information, contactM Mojatu ‘18 Farm, Screveton, pHome s e S Ecocentre, NG13 8JL r s p s e A S e927671 https://goo. 8 Phone: 01158457009 Mobile: 07759 1 ‘ Mojatu Foundatio p www.farmeco.co.uk Apr-S • Request for training
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FYA MEDIA LITERACY
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Training Course Details Know about the ‘media’
Interrogate m media Mainstrea people’s and young s of it perception
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