RockMeAfrica Magazine Vol One Issue Ten - October 2012 by Gabriel Odame

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Inside RockMeAfrica Vol 1, Issue 10 - October 2012

HOW SAFE IS HERBAL MEDICINE?

RMA Fashion Frenzy September Styles Winner

A medical ofﬁcer gives his opinion

POLITICS 30 Somalia Gets New President

HEALTH 14 You can beat depression 2:

LAW & ORDER 26 Common Mistakes in immigration ﬁlings v SPORTS 18 African pioneers in American sports

THE PULPIT SERIES 36 Flirting With Sin:

SPOTLIGHT 20 There’s No Place Like Africa:

AFRICA IN PERSPECTIVE 30 Selected Stories around the continent of Africa Incredible African stories around Africa and blah blah, blah

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COMMUNITY EVENTS 34 6th Annual African Day Parade :

Lismens Photos & Videos The peoplesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choice for quality videography and photography.

646. 796.8002

Designer:Maame Adwoa Achiaa 718. 299. 9210

VOL 1. ISSUE 10 COVER

OCTOBEr 2012 Rev. Adu Gyamfi ---------------------------- Mentor Gabriel Odame ------------------------- CEO/Publisher Mr. Tony Prempeh ---------------------Editor-In-Chief Weeks Mensah -----------------------Snr. Public Relations Joyce O. Amoah ----------------------- Advertising Mgr. Ronny Boateng ------------------------ Public Relations Dziffa Ametam ------------------------- Public Relations Maxwell Jennings ------------------------------Rev. C. Kafui Agbesi -----------------------Columnist Dr. Michael Adusei ------------------------Columnist Dr. Dave Ray (Phd)------------------------Columnist Sophia M. Goring-P (ESQ) ---------------Columnist Kofi Ackumey ------------------------ Contributing Writer

RockMeAfrica

Our primary objective is to promote African culture and heritage and offer a platform to encourage relationships; foster goodwill and promote awareness of pressing African issues in the diaspora. We aim to educate and engage our readers to actively participate in the coalition to rebuild and restore the African image globally.

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Email: advert@rockmeafrica.com www.rockmeafrica.com Disclaimer: RockMeAfrica Magazine is published monthly by Glamour Media Services. All rights reserved. Reprodution in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. We reserve the right to accept or reject any advertisement submitted for our magazine or online channel at www.rockmeafrica.com. The magazine is not liable for any error in advertisements and any liability will not exceed the total cost of the advertisement in error.

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Publisher’s Note

A Clarion Call to All Africans the individual or society’s knowledge and point-of-view. It is the core of everyone’s presuppositions and biases that affect the way we view all of life and reality. Whether or not we realize it, at the core of our being lies the worldview that represents what Charles H. Kraft describes as the “control box” of culture that determines thinking, acting or doing and determining values.

Gabriel Odame CEO/Publisher

It is said that a well-educated populace is critical to the economic vitality of a nation. Thus educational attainment is critical to forming, realizing and understanding a worldview that will set a trajectory for economic growth. A worldview is the fundamental cognitive orientation of an individual or society encompassing the entirety of

The hard questions to fellow Africans are: How has our worldview been formed? Why are we treading behind much of the world and living under the shadows of poverty and underdevelopment despite being a great people of incredible cultural values and abundance of natural resources? Why is it that the vast majority of African countries are clustered at or near the bottom of the United Nations Human Development Index? Is it a lack of education or a lack of a “control box?” Arguably, much of the populace of most African countries is uneducated but is it not a reflection of failed governance and greed? How many uneducated Africans are policy makers? How many uneducated Africans can mandate the setting up of stronger manufacturing and agro-processing sectors to aide in solving the continent’s economic problems? Has this not been the job of well-educated African leaders? Here is the clarion call: Leaders from all sectors of the African continent are duly reminded of their responsibilities to have a positive impact. We all are leaders in our own right whether as a government official or a mother, father, son, brother, sister, daughter, uncle, aunt or lover - whatever our cultural, professional and educational

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experiences may be, it is our holistic duty to have a positive impact!

It is time we revisited our worldviews and redefined the presuppositions and biases that define us as Africans. Let us revisit the cultural, intellectual, educational, occupational, social, political and religious values of honor, courage, honesty, integrity, love and responsibility. These will serve as infallible tools that will guide our decisions and contribute to realizing an affluent Africa where corruption, war and the likes are despised, and novelty inspired. We at RockMeAfrica believe in Africa and its future and we are dedicated to the uplift of its image. This clarion call is our frantic appeal to all Africans, citizens and leaders alike, to join us in preaching and exercising the message of positive change in our beloved continent.

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Editorial

K e n ya : P l e a se Sp a re U s t h e B l u s h e s! and approximately 3,000 innocent women raped. And come to think of it, it took less than two months for such a horrendous massacre to unfold, that is, from Election Day, December 27, 2007 to February 28, 2008, the date a political compromise was reached through a power-sharing deal brokered by former UN Secretary-General, Mr. Kofi Annan.

Tony Prempeh: Editor-In-Chief

The news report last month that Kenya’s Assistant Minister of Livestock Deveolpment, Mr. Dhadho Godhana had been arrested and hauled before court for fanning ethnic violence that led to over 100 deaths, is to say the least, disturbing. And it is not just because of the status of the man at the center of this abhorrent action but more importantly, the ramifications of his alleged action on the body politic of Kenya in particular and Africa in general. To set the matter in its proper perspective we need to recall the outcome of the post-election violence in Kenya in 2007/2008. Following a dispute over the re-election of the incumbent President, Mwai Kibaki and his subsequent swearing into office, a bloodbath of horrific proportions ensued as a result of widespread violence. Specific figures vary depending on who is tabulating them but it is generally agreed that when the dust settled, at least 1,500 had lost their lives; about 300,000 had been internally displaced

Many reasons accounted for the crisis. They included political marginalization, actual or perceived; unfulfilled promises; curtailing of freedoms such as the prohibition of protests in the aftermath of the disputed election result and many more. But the one cause linked to the topic at issue is the longstanding politics of tribal allegiances that has culminated in the twin problems of land dispute and tribal conflict. These have become perennial and seemingly intractable among the five main tribes, namely the Kikuyu (22%), Luhya (14%), Luo (13%), Kalenjin (12%), and Kamba (11%). The Kalenjin people are more of a collection of smaller tribes united by their common language. They are: the Endorois, Kipsigis, Terik, Marakwet, Pokot, Nandi, Turgen, Elgeyo and Sabaot. From the first President, Jomo Kenyatta, (a Kikuyu), through his successor, Daniel arap Moi (a Kalenjin) to Mwai Kibaki, (a Kikuyu) a series of allocation and reallocation of land to tribesmen of the sitting President, have left roots of resentment and deep wounds among the various tribes. Driven by such pent-up feelings toward one another, the various tribes, using the disputed election result as a pretext, embarked on retaliatory attacks to settle old scores rooted in ancient land disputes and tribal conflict. Nothing short of divine intervention saved the day for Kenya in particular

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and Africa as a whole. Against the background of the carnage that ensued after the 2007 election, and in the light of the renewed tribal fighting and casualties that Mr. Godhana’s irresponsible behavior triggered, the magnitude of his imprudence is seen. We believe that there are other culprits yet to be officially implicated because it takes two to tango. Therefore, anyone found to be equally culpable must be exposed and dealt with just as the Deputy Minister has been. No one should be shielded at the expense of the greater good of Kenya. We call on the government to get to the bottom of the recurring problem of tribal conflicts and deal with it once and for all. Africa cannot afford to lose Kenya’s contribution to the continent’s enduring image as a veritable tourist destination. Through its flora and fauna the East African country continues to keep Africa on the global map of tourism. Its expansive and magical safari experience cannot be found anywhere else in the world. But if care is not taken; if violence is allowed to rear its ugly head every now and then through failure to unite the country, we are afraid confidence in the security of Kenya and by extension the safety of visitors, would be gradually eroded and the magic would disappear, not only to the detriment of Kenya but Africa as a whole. Kenya, please rise to the occasion. Remember that a section of the global media is uncharitable to Africa and is always on the look-out for the least “sin” to use as a pretext to denounce the continent as barbaric. But Kenyans, you know Africans are not barbaric; after all, civilization began in Africa. So rise to the occasion and save us the blushes! Good luck!

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RMA

Fa s h i o n of the month

A model sporting exclusive wear from Konadu Designs. Keisha Afia Konadu Nyarko is the mastermind behind these designs which undoubtedly bear the mark of her ingenuity using authentic African fabrics. The brand presents African women of all shapes and sizes with a wide range of products including tank tops, blouses, blazers, hand bags, purses, clutches, pouches and gadget covers earrings, beads, bangles and other accessories. For more information contact Keisha at 917-691-2531 or the Administrative Director at 347-220-4081. You may also reach them via their Facebook page www.facebook. com/konadudesigns or through email at kon-adudesigns@gmail.com 10

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Walk against Female Genital Mutilation The oldest international organization working exclusively against female genital mutilation, CAGeM, last month organized a walk in New York to help survivors of female genital mutilation with medical treatment. Dubbed Restoring the Rose walkathon the event which took place at Riverside Park, was also aimed at raising awareness about the practice in New York and the United States in general. According to the organizers the New York Metro Area has the highest number of female genital mutilation (FGM) cases with over 40,000 women and girls affected and many more at risk.

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All photos courtesy Newspitter.

Five young African professionals and a company have been honored for their exceptional achievements in various ﬁelds of endeavor. They are: Bleejay Innis – Entrepreneurship; Cornelius Y. Taabazuing – Academics; Margaret Armoo Daniels – Leadership; Trisha Kwarko – Humanitarian Efforts; Akosua Yeboah – Philanthropy, and Network Afrique – Humanitarian Efforts. The awards ceremony dubbed, The African Youth Excellence Recognition Forum, was jointly organized by 54 Kingdoms, LLC, promoters of trendy African fashion and the Africa Youth Network (AYONET), a nongovernmental organization dedicated to the promotion of excellence among African youth.

Although the main highlight of the event was the awards ceremony, the occasion also served as a forum for young professionals to network and find new opportunities to do business. It also served as a precursor to the upcoming Ghana Youth Awards, scheduled to be held in Accra, Ghana on November 3rd, 2012 under the auspices of AYONET. It is intended to recognize the most outstanding achievements by youth organizations, charities, businesses and young individuals in Ghana.

tions Manager of Face2FaceAfrica; Nana Poku and Kwaku Awuah, CEO and President respectively of 54 Kingdoms.

Panel speakers at the Worcester event included: Margaret Bota – Senior Financial Analyst at the U.S. Federal Reserve Bank of Boston; Margaret Rwaramba, Director of Witness Assistance at the DA’s Office: Collins Nuamah, Co-Founder of Gimp Management; Isaac O.B. Boateng, Executive Director of Face2FaceAfrica; Sandra Appiah –Editorial and Opera-

Other dignitaries in attendance were Kate Toomey, City Councilor of Worcester; Nana Kwaku Agyei Yeboah, Chairman of NPP USA; Julia A. Harrison, Broker at Hope Realty; Daniel Boakye-Mensah, Vice President, Information Security, Citizens Financial Group; and Darnell Thigpen Williams, Associate Director of Professional Development at DYS-MA .

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Addressing the gathering, Sarai Rivera, a City Councilor of Worcester urged young African professionals to get involved in city affairs, stressing that their involvement could serve to raise the profile of the ever-growing African community and enable it to exert a more positive impact on the society.

he Pan-African inspired fashion house, 54 Kingdoms has done it again with its Kingdom Come collection which made its debut during the New York Fashion Week! The new line showcases the long-awaited Sankofa Travel Bags, University of Afrika (UoA) shirts and sweaters for Men (Kings) as well as the Afrikana Delight skirts and tops for Women (Queens).

You will also like the dazzling and colorful Bonoman Belts. Looking for accessories to complement any of the products from the collection â&#x20AC;&#x201C; their Afrocentric bead necklaces and bracelets scream Kulture!

Visit the 54 Kingdoms online store today for purchases! About 54 Kingdoms:

54 Kingdoms is an apparel company that brings the Pan-African creative history and culture to the doorstep of global fashion. By paying close attention to detail and to fine craftsmanship, 54 Kingdoms serves the cool, common and sophistiLike pride us on Facebook Follow us on twitter | 13 cated. At 54 Kingdoms, we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t dress to IMPRESS, but to EXPRESS our culture, and identity.

RMA Health

dr. MIChaEL adUSEI, M.d,METrOpOLITan hOSpITaL CEnTEr/ nEW YOK MEdICaL COLLEGE nEUrOpSYChIaTrY

This is the second and ﬁnal part of the series on this article. The ﬁrst installment mentioned among other things that depression affects about 1 of every 6 older people. It also stated that rates of depression in women are twice as high as they are in men due to several reasons that were enumerated. In conclusion the article said depressed people manifest certain signs such as loss of energy, feeling fatigued or tired, sluggish, physically drained, strong feelings of worthlessness or guilt, reckless behavior such as substance abuse, compulsive gambling and so on and so forth. Depression is divided into various forms. The different forms of depression have unique symptoms, causes, and effects. There is major

You c a n b e at Depression 2 depression which could last up to six months. Dysthymic is a type of depression which is of chronic, but “low-grade” depression. The symptoms of dysthymia are not as strong as the symptoms of major depression, but they last a long time (at least two years). Bipolar disorder also known as manic depression is characterized by cycling mood changes. Episodes of depression alternate with manic episodes, which can include impulsive behavior, hyperactivity, rapid speech, and little to no sleep. Depression is a major risk factor for suicide. The deep despair and hopelessness that goes along with depression can make suicide feel like the only way to escape the pain. Thoughts of death or suicide are a serious symptom of depression. We are in economic turmoil where families are struggling to pay their bills and put food on the table. There have been several instances where families have lost their loved to suicide because of internal and external struggles including bad economy. Complications of depression include loss of sex drive. Depressed people lack the interest and energy required for an active sex life. Long-term effects may include loss of selfesteem and relationship problems, family conflicts and social isolation. Substance abuse (both alcohol and drug abuse) often occurs when people attempt to self-treat their disorders. Sleep disorders are among the most common complications of depression. There are many physical complications of depression that may occur as well. High blood pressure and heart problems may be brought about by depression. Depression may lead to suppressed immune systems. Headaches, muscle pains and stomach problems are other common complications of depression. Most people with depression feel

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better with medication, psychological counseling or other treatment. Depression is more complicated even though it looks simple to many just by saying “depression”. Medications used to treat depression are called antidepressants. Although some antidepressant medications may also decrease sex drive as the depression itself, newer medications have no effect on sexual drive and have proven effective. Psychotherapy alone may be just as effective as drug therapy for mild depression. When used with drugs, it can be useful for severe depression. The treatments for bipolar depression are very different. In fact, antidepressants can make bipolar depression worse. Electroconvulsive therapy is sometimes used to treat people with severe depression, particularly people who are psychotic, threatening to commit suicide, or refusing to eat. It is also used to treat depression during pregnancy when drugs are ineffective. In electroconvulsive therapy, electrodes are placed on the head, and an electrical current is applied to induce a seizure in the brain which is believed to relieve the depression. Recovering from depression requires action. The things that help the most are the things that are most difficult to do. But there’s a difference between difficult and impossible. Getting the support you need plays a big and vital role in combating depression. Regular exercise and healthy diet are also vital in helping cure depression. It is difficult to maintain perspective and sustain the effort required to beat depression on your own. But the very nature of depression makes it difficult to reach out for help. Maintaining your close relationships and social activities are important. Get up and fight for good health.

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RMA Sports

Af rican P ioneer

The history of sports development in America would not be complete without mentioning the pioneering efforts of some great Africans. In the not-too-distant-past a host of Africans took America by storm and blazed the trail for their compatriots to follow. They were found in almost every sports discipline, including those, either unpopular or unknown on the continent.

These pioneers, even though initially unknown and unfancied, worked hard, ignored the taunts and carved a name for themselves. In the process they not only raised high the flag of Africa but also immortalized their own names in the annals of American sports. Ever since these forerunners proudly made the continent’s presence felt in American sports there has

Christian Okoye

Hakeem Olajuwon

Kansas City Chiefs | Running Back

Houston Rockets | Toronto Raptors

Height: 6-1 Weight: 260 Country: Nigeria Career:1987 - 2003

Twenty-seven years ago, specifically in 1987, Christian Emeka Okoye, a six-foot, oneinch 260-pound Nigerian from the Igbo tribe, became the first African player in the National Football League (NFL) of America when he signed for the Kansas City Chiefs as a running back. Known for his powerful running style despite his big size as well as his ability to break tackles, he was nicknamed the “Nigerian Nightmare” for the trouble he gave opposing players and his agility and speed that left tacklers in his wake. Due to multiple injuries that dogged his career Okoye voluntarily ended his NFL career. But even in

been no looking back. A stream of talent has since followed the path they carved and have continued to bear aloft the African torch. This month we pay homage to some of these pioneers with the hope that their stories will inspire the present generation of Africans to aspire to reach the stars in whatever legitimate pursuit they are engaged in.

Height: 7 Weight: 255 Country: Nigeria Career:1984 - 2002 his short career spanning six seasons - 1987 to 2003 he achieved a lot including winning a league rushing title in 1989, two Pro Bowl appearances (1989, 1991), and three playoff appearances. In 1989 he was voted as the American Football League Offensive Player of the year and in 2000 he was inducted into Kansas Chiefs’ Hall of Fame. His achievements become even more appreciated weighed against the fact that the former track and field athlete who won seven college titles in the shotput, discus, and hammer throw did not play American football until 1984, when he joined the squad at California’s Azusa Pacific University.

Another Nigerian who makes the list is Hakeem Olajuwon for his contribution to the development of basketball in America. During his 18-year career, Olajuwon staked his claim as one of the greatest players to ever play the game as he rose to become the first foreign-born player to win the National Basketball Association (NBA’s) MVP award. The big man who stood at seven feet and weighed 255 pounds emigrated from Nigeria to the US where he played the center position in the NBA for the Houston Rockets and Toronto Raptors. In the 1993/94 season “Hakeem the Dream” as he was affectionately called, made history and did Africa proud when he became the only player in NBA history to win the NBA MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, and Finals MVP awards in the same season. He led the Rockets to back-to-back NBA championships against the New York Knicks in 1994 and 1995. In 1996, Olajuwon who had naturalized was a member of the Olympic gold-medal-winning United States national team, and was selected as one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History. He ended his career as the league’s all-time leader in blocks, with 3,830. During his playing career he became famous for

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r s in A m erican S ports what has become known as the “Dream Shake,” a combination of moves he mastered that left opponents overwhelmed and gave the big man an edge. Olajuwon is the only player in NBA history to record more than 200 blocks and 200 steals in the same season. In the 2006 NBA offseason, he opened his first Big Man Camp, to teach young frontcourt players the finer points of playing in the post. It is worthy of

note that through the camp he has mentored current top basketball stars like power forward Emeka Okafor and center, Yao Ming. In September 2009, he also worked with Kobe Bryant on the post moves and the Dream Shake. More recently he has been working with Dwight Howard of the Los Angeles Lakers, helping him diversify his post moves and encouraging more mental focus. He has also worked with Le Bron James, Amar’e Stoudemire and Denver Nuggets big men Ja Vale McGee and Kenneth Faried.

Abdul Razak New York Cosmos | Midfielder

Jomo Sono New York Cosmos | Toronto Blizzard

Height: NA Country: Ghana Career:1979 - 1981 Years ago, America began an aggressive soccer development program. Only those who had made an indelible mark on the game around the globe were being recruited to impart their knowledge and skill to the up-and-coming players of America. Among them was Abdul Razak, one of Ghana’s most gifted players as well as the most creative African midfielders ever. Nicknamed the Golden Boy, Razak was crowned Africa’s best footballer of the year 1978. A year later he was recruited by New York Cosmos where he played alongside greats like Franz Beckenbauer of Germany and Carlos Alberto of Brazil.

Height: NA Country: South Africa Career:1977 - 1982 Completing the list of African forerunners in the development of soccer in the US, is South African football legend, Ephraim Matsilela, 57, affectionately known as Jomo Sono and sometimes also called the “Black Prince of South African Soccer.”

In 2000, he had a short spell as an assistant coach of the Ghana national team. He also coached in Mali where he won the Premier Division and cup double with Stade Malien. The club did not lose any matches on its way to winning the title. In 2003, he was appointed the coach of Kumasi Asante Kotoko and helped the club win their first local league in ten years.

A star player noted for his all-round ability, dribbling and accurate passing skills Jomo Sono earned his nickname, “Jomo,” which means “burning spear” for his ability to cut through opposing lines like a spear would pierce through something. For him, too, New York Cosmos was his first stop when he moved to the US in 1977 after he had made a lasting name with South African club side, the Orlando Pirates.

In a 1999 poll held by the IFFHS to select the best footballers of the 20th Century, Razak ranked 31st among African players, and in 2007 he was selected as one of the 30 best African footballers of the previous 50 years by the CAF, through internet voting.

It is worthy to note that Sono was signed to play alongside the legendary Pele of Brazil, renowned as the best player ever in the world

He left after two years but the impression he left was enough to place later generations of footballers in good stead for a place in American soccer circles.

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as part of the plan to tap from the expertise of renowned players to move American soccer forward. In 1978, he moved to the Colorado Caribous which metamorphosed into the Atlanta Chiefs at the end of that season. That was Sono’s next stop. There, Sono played with another South African soccer star of the time, Kaizer Motaung. He completed his stint in North America soccer circles playing for the Toronto Blizzard from 1980 through 1982. Jomo Sono’s contribution to the development of soccer in America extends beyond the field. At one point he also taught and gave demonstrations at Clemson University Soccer Camp for youths. After his soccer career in the USA ended, Sono returned to South Africa, where he purchased the Highlands Park club in Johannesburg in 1982, renaming it Jomo Cosmos in honour of his old team. Follow us on twitter |

How Safe is Herbal Medicine? By Tony Prempeh

belief among Africans that all herbal medicine is safe and efficacious, their assumption is dead wrong. And dead wrong means you could be dead, literally, yes dead! Dr. Michael Adusei, a neuropsychiatrist, made the disclosure in an interview with this magazine over the craze for herbal medicine by a wide segment of the African population. To start with, he stressed that not all plant life is beneficial. “There are poisonous plants, and some of them are deadly, especially if used for long periods of time,” he said Furthermore, the medical officer said: “There is limited scientific evidence to establish the safety and efficacy of most herbal products. The use of food supplements and herbal medicines should be considered in association with the individual’s diet, medical history and prescribed treatments, especially drug therapy, since interactions with drugs can be dangerous and even fatal in some cases,” He said surveys had found that the majority of patients who used herbal medicines and other forms of complementary and alternative medicine did not disclose this to their doctors.

If you are an African you better read this; if you are among those who prefer herbal medicine to conventional or orthodox medicine, this is for you, too. If you are fond of “purging” your system, meaning taking laxatives to ease bowel movement as most Africans regularly do using herbal preparations, be advised before your next exercise!

The expert said that meant that a surprising number of people were putting themselves at risk by using herbal supplements without being informed about their actual benefits and potential dangers. According to him certain herbal supplements could have adverse effects ranging from nausea and vomiting to lifethreatening conditions like liver or kidney dysfunction.

A medical officer says you got it wrong about herbal medicine. Not all of it is as safe as you think! In fact,

Underlining other hazards posed by herbal medicine Dr. Adusei said: “Several studies have highlighted

he says evidence has been adduced from scientific research that has proven that contrary to widespread

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key problems related to primary care delivery by traditional healers in Africa. Key issues include hygiene, toxicity and financial cost. Traditional healers have been implicated in the spread of blood-borne diseases including HIV and other infectious diseases by the re-use of medical instruments and lack of hand washing. Prescriptions to take toxic plants for HIV treatment have also resulted in severe adverse events, including death,” the medical officer added. The medical expert said although herbs were often perceived as ‘natural’ and therefore safe, many different side effects had been reported owing to active ingredients, contaminants, or interactions with drugs. He said herbs have limited value because of poor design, small samples, and, above all, use of products of uncertain composition and consistency. On the plus side Dr. Adusei stated that it would not be unreasonable to suggest that some products might have therapeutic benefits as examples from history and the recent past had provided us with effective antimalarial and cancer treatments. “Indeed, some of the earliest forms of HIV medications were derived from natural products. Efforts should be directed at determining the therapeutic efficacy of these remedies as well as the possibility of interactions through systematic research and clinical trials.” According to him herbs, if used correctly, could help treat a variety of conditions, and in some cases, might have fewer side effects than some conventional medications. But he said because they were unregulated, herbal products were often mislabeled and might contain additives and contaminants that might not be listed on the label. He submitted that the safety profiles of many herbal medicines were promising, but he was quick to point out that current data had revealed that they might have adverse effects and potentially serious interactions

with some commonly prescribed conventional medications, a situation which he warned could place individual patients at great risk, including potential loss of life. Urging discretion by users he said, “Herbs do perform many healing functions in the body, but they must be used appropriately and recommended by a trained professional. Although herbal remedies are less likely than most conventional medicines to cause side effects, herbs nevertheless can be very potent.” “They have the potential for both benefit and harm. Caution should be exercised in the use of herbs in older adults due to possible decreased renal and hepatic clearance of herb and drug metabolites. Women who are pregnant, contemplating pregnancy, or lactating should generally be discouraged from using herbal treatments.” He admitted that much of the world still relies on herbs for its medicines and conceded that used correctly, they could be extremely effective. “The twin problems of herbal medicine, though, are ignorance about what truly works and what does not, and quality control of a product that is not the result of standard production methods.”

herbs should be used only for healing purposes and not for extended periods of time. Parents, he said, should be cautioned about the relative lack of studies demonstrating efficacy and safety of herbal medicines in infants and children. “Additional concerns are proper dosing in this age group, greater susceptibility to potential contaminants and a greater potential for herb-drug interactions.” The medical expert added that herbdrug interactions undoubtedly do occur and may put individuals at risk. However, our present knowledge is incomplete and more research is urgently needed. According to him, encouraging data support the efficacy of some of these popular herbal medicinal products, and the potential for doing good seems greater than that for doing harm. But he cautioned that the evidence is incomplete, risk-benefit assessments are not completely reliable, and much knowledge is still lacking.

Dr. Adusei had some words of advice for all: practitioners, users, monitoring agencies and everybody. For the part of the practitioners he advised that since many people depended on herbal medicine in Africa in spite of the inherent dangers they should apply the utmost care to save the lives of users. In the case of governments and monitoring institutions, he called for adequate research to confirm and validate the actual efficacy of these herbs as well as their toxicities as a means of helping to overcome the deficiencies of herbal medicine in a continent like Africa that is particularly dependent on it. For users he advised that certain Like us on Facebook

The outdooring ceremony of Nana Afrakoma, Queen Mother of Agogo traditional area

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The outdooring ceremony last month of Nana Afrakoma Serwaa Kusi Oboadum, the newly enstooled queenmother of Agogo traditional area, turned out to be a Kente festival as the venue of the event, Gauchos, in the Bronx was painted all over with various shades of the traditional Ghanaian cloth by the packed-tocapacity crowd. The event could also be described as a dur-

bar of chiefs as a host of traditional rulers came from all over the US and added much pomp and pageantry to the occasion with their rich traditional gear and their occasional display of intricate dancing steps in response to the beat of traditional music. The climax of the occasion came when Nana Afrakoma was borne high in a palanquin and carried round the auditorium to acknowledge the cheers of the

audience, dancing aloft as she was paraded about with traditional music blaring behind her palanquin. Other highlights of the event included the presentation of gifts to the queenmother by various groups, including Agogo indigenes and chiefs. RockMeAfrica Magazine brings our readers a pictorial coverage of the occasion.

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Photos By: Oko Nyaku

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Law & Order Common Mistakes in Immigration Filings

Sophia M. Goring-PiardESQ As an attorney with over 12 years of experience in the field of immigration law, I am often amazed by the mistakes that individuals make in their immigration filings with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (â&#x20AC;&#x153;USCISâ&#x20AC;?) that can, in some situations, result in negative consequences. I will enumerate some of these mistakes but first, I want it to be clear that I am referring to filings for immigration benefits that are based on a qualifying family relationship. For example, individuals who pursue lawful permanent residence (i.e. green card) status based on sponsorship by a spouse who is a U.S. citizen often seem to make errors in the preparation and submission of the necessary petitions and applications. These mistakes could potentially be avoided by carefully following the applicable immigration form instructions provided by the USCIS on its website at www.uscis.gov. This directive is particularly helpful if such individuals choose to proceed without attorney representation. However, in order to avoid undue delay and/or denial of their immigration petitions/applications I advise individuals to seek competent legal counsel if they truly are not certain about their eligibility for immigration benefits. Individuals who choose to prepare and file their immigration petitions/applications without attorney assistance generally make mistakes that result in the rejection and in the worse-case scenario, denial of the application/petition by the USCIS. Such unfortunate results can cause significant delays in obtaining the green card. In the event of a denial, they would be required to re-file the entire application

packet with new filing fees, which can be financially burdensome. For purposes of this discussion I am talking about the visa petition that the US citizen spouse files for the immigrant spouse and the corresponding adjustment of status application that the immigrant spouse will file allowing him/her to obtain the green card without having to depart the U.S. Here are some of the common filing mistakes: 1. Failing to understand what you are eligible for: Just because you are married to a US citizen does not mean that you qualify for adjustment of status. If you came to the U.S. without inspection by an immigration officer at a U.S. land border or airport, or you entered the U.S. with false documents (such as a fake passport), you are not eligible for adjustment of status unless certain, narrowly-defined conditions apply. Know that the immigration forms ask you to reveal how you entered the US, in what status and when that status expired. While you must always be truthful in how you respond to these questions, failing to understand how your answers to these questions impact your eligibility for permanent residence, can result in the denial of your application process. Further, a denial of your application could expose you to the risk of being placed in removal proceedings. 2. Failing to sign the petition and/or application: USCIS will return your entire petition/application to you, including filing fees, along with a rejection notice advising of the reason for rejection. You will have an opportunity to fix the error and return the application packet to the USCIS for processing. However, note that it can take two to four weeks to receive the rejection notice along with the packet that you filed from USCIS, which is a delay in processing that you can avoid by following the correct procedures. 3. Failing to attach the correct filing fees: Same as #2 above. 4. Failing to send the petition and/ or application to the appropriate

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USCIS address: Same as #2 above. Note that USCIS provides clear instructions on the address where you must file each petition/application, which in family-based filings will generally consist of a Lockbox address. 5. Failing to advise the USCIS of a change of address while the petition or application is pending: USCIS will send you correspondence confirming its receipt of your petition/application indicating the appropriate receipt number allowing you to track the status of your case. If you are no longer residing at the address indicated on your application while the case is pending, and you have not notified USCIS of your change of address, your immigration mail will be returned to the USCIS as undeliverable. In this case, you risk not receiving your important immigration mail, such as notices that instruct you to take necessary action for the processing of your case. Your failure to take the necessary action, such as failing to attend your biometrics appointment or failing to attend a required interview, can result in the denial of the petition/application for such non-action. Further, you, the intending immigrant, are required by law to notify the USCIS of your change of address since the filing of your petition/application within 10 days of your move. You must do so by completing Form AR-11 (found on the USCIS website) and by calling the USCIS directly to ensure that the agency updates the address on your pending application/petition. Understanding the immigration filing process and your eligibility for immigration benefits are key to avoiding these common mistakes. I challenge you to be armed with correct and up-todate information to avoid unnecessary delays and in some cases, the denial of your petition/application. I am sure you do not have time or money to waste, so the more informed you are the better off you will be. 1825 Park Avenue, Suite 1102, NY, NY 10035. (212) 281-2231

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“There is nowhere like Africa,” AfricanAmerican teen tells the world This story, written by Brandon Hill, a 19-year-old African-American Honorary Scholar at Morehouse College and a freshman at Stanford University, recounts the teenager’s maiden journey to Africa and the lessons he learnt. The trip was undertaken courtesy of the Semester at Sea program. For the uninitiated, Semester at Sea is a study-abroad program for American under-graduate students, run on a

With Naomi’s moving words ringing in my ears I would set out on my global adventure the following day, the Semester at Sea program that would take me through twelve countries on four continents in just 100 days. This study abroad, coupled with a semester exchange at Morehouse College formed my gap year, preceding my enrollment at Stanford University. I call it my Year On.

Brandon R. Hill Stanford University Exchange Student, Morehouse College www.brandonsinspiration.com cruise ship christened MV Explorer and lasting a semester or about 100 days. The grand ballroom sat in silence, spellbound by the oratory of the keynote speaker. Over 3,000 dignitaries and community members had gathered there that cold January morning for the 2012 Martin Luther King Breakfast in Minneapolis, Minnesota. And for such an auspicious occasion, the acclaimed Naomi Tutu — daughter of South African civil rights legend, Desmond Tutu — had been invited to deliver a clarion call to an audience decorated in shiny lapels and draped in African regalia. I was among those in attendance.

Chief among my ports of call would be Ghana and South Africa, where I would walk in the same hallowed footsteps as W.E.B. Du Bois, Kwame Nkrumah, Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu.

To a thunderous applause, Dr. Tutu sang: “Ubuntu!” meaning ‘I am who I am because of who we all are.’ “It’s not some strange and exotic kind of political or social theory,” Naomi Tutu declared. “It’s a very basic idea, the idea of our shared humanity.” That was on the eve of my departure.

My time in Africa was amazing. I learned more about myself and my roots, and grew in ways that I never imagined possible. Much of the metamorphosis I underwent throughout my global journey occurred in Africa. But it was in Ghana where I was given a traditional name -Kwabena -that my his-

The people were gorgeous, the food was mouthwatering—from Jolof rice in Ghana to Boerewors in South Africa. The rhythms were intoxicating and the sights breathtaking. And for the whole month I spent in the provinces of the Motherland, I felt like family. In fact, I remember, the first words spoken to me after initially stepping foot on our soil were: “Welcome home, brother.”

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tory came alive, and I became whole, embracing both my citizenship as an American and my proud membership of the African Diaspora. At the Cape Coast Slave Castle I was moved to tears as I meditated on the link between Mother Africa and my existence in America. I also recall with relish several other lingering memories about the beloved continent; from dancing the Azonto with school children in Togorme Village in Kpong, Ghana, to paying homage to Mandela’s jail cell on Robben Island in Cape Town. I must state that I enjoyed an eclectic variety of experiences, and now has taken it upon myself to share the splendors of Africa with the world. I have been extremely blessed to get a taste of this beautiful land. So, to share my experience with people back home, I am producing a film called “Year On” about my year-long adventure that will both capture the thrill of the cultures I encountered and chronicle my selftransformation from a tourist to a traveler; from an American boy into a global citizen. I think that it’s important for all of us to remember—from Brazil, to the Bahamas, to Botswana, to Brooklyn—that we are all one. The diaspora unites us across borders and oceans; it does not divide us, and so I hope to see us become a community that works together under a shared history to alleviate our shared struggles as a people. I hope to become an elected official in American politics where I could help facilitate this unification.” In such a world, conflicts between African nations cease to exist; poverty, disease, and inadequate education are no longer problems in the global Black community; and Black people across the globe are free to prosper. Together! That is Ubuntu in action. Yes! ‘I am because we are.’ So let’s all come together in the name of Ubuntu for a better Africa, for a better world!

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Africa In Perspective Malaria deaths reduce in Africa and push for greater progress in sustainable interventions. It urged endemic and donor countries to increase predictable resources for the disease and scale-up control programs so that targets set in the action plan for the management of malaria would be achieved.

More than one million lives have been saved in the last ten years, a third of them in Africa, under the Roll Back Malaria Partnership, (RBM Partnership). Thanks to the collaborative efforts of Governments, UN Agencies, International Organizations, donor agencies including foundations and other stakeholders such as research and academic institutions. The African Group at the UN dropped the good news last month at the General Assembly of the world body through Liberia’s UN Mission Counselor, Gail Farngalo when she presented a Draft Resolution entitled: Consolidating Gains and Accelerating Efforts to Control and Eliminate Malaria in Developing Countries, particularly in Africa, by 2015. Even though deaths due to malaria had significantly reduced in Africa according to the African Group, the Resolution pointed out that malaria control remained an emergency globally, and even more so for Africa. The African region accounts for about 81 per cent of malaria cases occurring worldwide. At least, 90 per cent of malaria deaths occur in Africa with 86 per cent being children below five years of age. With the disease still threatening, the Resolution urged the global community to intensify efforts and commitments to avoid the reversal of the gains made in combating the menace

The RBM Partnership is the global framework for coordinated action against malaria. It forges consensus among key actors in malaria control, harmonizes action and mobilizes resources to fight malaria in endemic countries. In 2006, the Partnership was redesigned in a process known as the Change Initiative in order to strengthen its capacity to respond efficiently to emerging challenges in global malaria control. In 2008 at the Millennium Development Goals Summit on Malaria, world leaders gathered in New York to endorse an ambitious Global Malaria Action Plan (GMAP) that outlined the RBM Partnership’s vision for a substantial and sustained reduction in the burden of malaria in the near and mid-term, and the eventual global eradication of malaria in the long term. Specifically, the GMAP seeks to achieve the following objectives among others: Reduce global malaria cases from 2000 levels by 50% in 2010 and by 75% in 2015; Reduce global malaria deaths from 2000 levels by 50% in 2010 and to near zero preventable deaths in 2015; Eliminate malaria in 8-10 countries by 2015 and afterwards, in all countries currently in the pre-elimination phase; and in the long term, eradicate malaria world-wide by reducing the global incidence to zero through progressive elimination in countries.

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PPP of Ghana Picks Woman as VP Candidate The flag-bearer of the Progressive People’s Party, (PPP) Dr. Paa Kwesi Nduom has nominated Ms. Eva Lokko, a very talented woman by all standards, as his vice-presidential candidate for the December 2012 presidential elections. A family woman boasting a proud Ga pedigree, Ms Lokko brings to the table a solid background that could serve to strengthen the chances of the PPP. An accomplished engineer and a communications expert with a master’s degree in Intelligent Management Systems, System Analysis and Design, she has worked for the United Nations as well as the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), the national broadcaster as its first female Director-General. She has also founded and operated a Non-Governmental Organization – Totally Youth - a group that imparts skills to the youth to make them marketable and employable on the job market. Until her nomination she was the Chief Executive Officer of the NGO. Madam Lokko who has travelled to 44 countries is fluent in four major languages of Ghana - Ga, Hausa, Twi and Fanti. Apart from being very articulate in English she also speaks Russian and has a working Knowledge of French.

Somalia gets new president

Somali MPs meeting in Mogadishu last month, elected Hassan Sheikh Mohamud as the country’s new president, in the latest step to end decades of war. The academic beat the incumbent, President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed in a run-off poll by 190 to 79 votes, officials said. No candidate secured the required two-thirds majority in the first round of voting conducted by secret ballot. The outgoing Prime Minister, Abdi-

weli Mohamed Ali and moderate Islamist, Abdulkadir Osoble both qualified for the second round but pulled out after coming third and fourth respectively. Eighteen candidates were eliminated at the first hurdle. The new president was sworn into office immediately after the result. The outgoing Somali President, Sheikh Ahmed conceded defeat during a live broadcast on national TV, saying he was “satisfied” with his time in power. “It is a great pleasure for me to witness a fair election in Mogadishu after 42 years, (that is), since Mohamed Siad Barre took over in 1969” he said.

Kenyan Minister sacked, arrested over violence another in a deadly dispute over Orma-owned cattle grazing on land the Pokomo say is theirs. Godhana, whose constituency is located in the Tana Delta where the violence erupted, had accused a political rival, acting Internal Security Minister Yusuf Haji, of whipping up the unrest, according to local media. Kenya’s Assistant Minister of Livestock Development, Dhadho Godhana was, last month, sacked and subsequently arrested over his suspected involvement in bloody clashes in the Tana Delta region that left over 100 people dead. The victims were shot, hacked and burnt to death as the Pokomo and Orma tribes fought one

Haji, who is also the defense minister, represents another constituency flanking the Tana River and is from a different tribe from Godhana’s. The fired minister, who is a retired army major, is also the Member of Parliament, (MP) for Galole constituency in Tana River County where the violence erupted.

In a statement, President Mwai Kibaki said Godhana was relieved of his duties after investigations linked him with the violence in the Tana River Delta. The President then appeared to be giving a signal to the security agencies to arrest the sacked minister when he directed that anyone, including leaders from the besieged region, implicated in the violence be arrested and dealt with. Hours after the presidential directive Godhana was arrested, detained and charged with two counts of incitement to violence. He denied the charges and was released on a cash bail of Sh500,000 by Magistrate Lucy Nyambura.

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Abdil Latif Ega: Keynote: Speaker

Panelists at the 2nd Annual CUNY Young African Symposium held last month at John Jay College, have stressed the need for the youth of Africa to play the role expected of them as makers of Africa. The panelists stressed that the youth constitute the solution to Africa’s existing struggles with various problems such as leaderhip, poverty and education and therefore the continent is looking up to them for answers. They urged the youth to take advantage of the resources available to them to obtain their intellectual, social and political success which will position them to play their role effectively.

The keynote speaker, Abdil Latif Ega, a novelist and a PhD candidate at Columbia University, encouraged the youth of Africa to return to the continent and use the knowledge they have acquired as a catalyst for the restoration of the economic, political, and social integrity of the continent. He reiterated the fact that Africa’s future lies in the youth and therefore their continuous stay abroad is detrimental to the progress of the continent. The symposium dubbed “The African Youth Rising” was under the theme, “The Role of the Youth in Renegotiating Africa’s Position in the World.” It was organized by the Council of Young African Leaders (the CYAL) in collaboration with Applause Magazine.

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All photos courtesy of Kelechi Okere Like us on Facebook

The 6th in the series of the Annual African Day Parade and Festival was held recently in Harlem to showcase the beauty, richness, and diversity of African Culture. The theme for the program was: “1st Class World Tour to African Heritage,” and its objective was to bring together people from Africa, people of African descent, and all peoples of the world together in appreciation of African Culture. This year’s event was dedicated to HIV/AIDS Awareness in collaboration with the office of Senator Bill Perkins who represents the 30th Senatorial District which is part of New York County and encompasses Harlem, the Upper West Side and Washington

Heights. Since its inception six years ago the event has become one of the main attractions of Harlem, drawing visitors from Africa, the West Indies, Europe and other parts of the world. It is sheer beauty to see whites, blacks, colored and people from all walks of life mingling in a great show of support for Africa’s big day as participants let themselves go in a frenzy of music, dancing and friendship.

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Over 50 contingents comprising drummers, dancers, associations, bands, singers and performers, representing “54 African Countries, One Continent and the African Diaspora” marched in the parade as between thousands of spectators lined the streets of Harlem to savor the unique-

Honorable Theresa Friedman, Elder Nana Camille Yarbrough and Queen Mother Blakeley.

ness of African culture in full glow. Notable among the contingents were groups from Ghana, Nigeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Panama, Kenya, Ethiopia, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Guinea, Mali, Senegal, Niger, Benin, Namibia, South Africa, Honduras, Haiti, Trinidad and Tobago and many more.

Among the dignitaries who graced the occasion were African Ambassadors; New York City Police Commissioner, Ray Kelly; NYC Immigrant Affairs Commissioner, Fatima Shama; Senator Bill Perkins, Assemblyman Keith Wright, Councilwoman Inez E. Dickens, Councilman Robert Jackson,

The Parade started around 12 Noon, from 135th Street to 122nd Street along Malcolm X Boulevard (Lenox Avenue), Harlem and ended with a festival at the Marcus Garvey Park with a host of African celebrities in attendance. As usual our team was there to bring our readers these colorful photos.

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Pulpit Series

Rev. Cephas Kafui Agbesi Senior Pastor Honeywell Baptist Church, NY The Church has never been as soft on sin as it is today. Who would have thought that in one generation, the very word would be avoided by most of the clergy? Pastors downplay sin to prove to be “positive.” To be popular, a guilty priesthood of hirelings has allowed the cancer of sin to spread like a plague in the Church. And now rather than perfecting holiness in the fear of God, we have become a generation that flirts with sin. The result is that countless homes are reaping the wages of sin: a harvest of death. Without a shepherd reproving, rebuking, and exhorting us to cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, we are likely to make room for sin. And the human heart is always ready to excuse itself. It is always ready to blame someone else for its folly. It is always ready to rationalize its behavior. We may be blind to some sin in such a way that we act like immature children who neither understand nor really see death coming as a result of our misbehavior. We forget that delayed obedience is disobedience. We do not realize that our stiff-necked behavior grieves the Spirit and damages our own hearts and the hearts of all those around us. Then, too, we are taught that sin is simply missing the mark. In some instances this is true. It relates to people honestly trying to do their very best and yet failing at times because of the weakness of their flesh. However, the constant harping on this by some clergy only diminishes the reality of sin and

FLIRTING WITH SIN gives us an excuse to be soft on sin. This view of sin minimizes the sacrifice of Jesus’ blood. In fact, it makes the Cross seem like an unreasonable demand of an all-too-implacable God. The thought becomes, “I can’t be holy; I can’t separate myself from the world; I can’t, I can’t. I’m a victim of my flesh.” This is hogwash! It stands in direct opposition to Christ and the scriptures and yet, it is the attitude of many in the Church today.

And it is not just the kids; the adults are just as bad! This is all because of flirting with sin! The temptation is to just mess with it a little; it entices, it excites. You think you can handle it. Then it sinks its hooks in. Then it shows its true colors, but then it is too late. The seeds are planted. The harvest of death is coming. O Church, this is the result of being soft on sin.

Sin is choosing against God. It is not innocent. It is not an accident. It is not excusable. The eyes see, the heart lusts and the will of man exalts itself against the will of God. There is no missing the mark here. This is downright rebellion against God. The Holy Ghost says, “No,” the Word says, “No,” but the human heart says, “I must have my own way.” We act as if we can go play in the fields of sin like a recess on a schoolyard. Then we presume on the mercy of God by “praying for forgiveness” never intending to repent and change but looking for a covering till we need another “recess.” We call this Christianity? God have mercy! This is a cycle in the Church that is never repudiated. Is it any wonder that even pastors are addicted to internet porn and all manner of wickedness?

Hear the warning of Hebrews 10:2631: For there is no longer any sacrifice that will take away sins if we purposely go on sinning after the truth has been made known to us. Instead, all that is left is to wait in fear for the coming judgment and the fierce fire which will destroy those who oppose God! 28 Anyone who disobeys the Law of Moses is put to death without any mercy when judged guilty from the evidence of two or more witnesses. What, then, of those who despise the Son of God? Who treat as a cheap thing the blood of God’s covenant which purified them from sin? Who insult the Spirit of grace? Just think how much worse is the punishment they will deserve! For we know who said, “I will take revenge, I will repay”; and who also said, “The Lord will judge his people.” It is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God!

This casual attitude toward sin, this playing with sin, has led to strongholds of Satan and all manner of compromise in the Church today. More “Christians” are under the influence of alcohol than ever before. More “Christians” are swearing than ever before. Unholy lifestyles are not the exception but the rule. Just look at the Church today. Look at the way we dress. I do not want to preach the clothes-line but our youths look so much like the world that no one can tell the difference. And we call this liberty? God have Mercy!

So, you see, God is anything but soft on sin. You must be born again. But perhaps you read this and are convicted. Do not feel sorry for yourself. Rather, feel sorry for the God you have offended and the Christ you have dishonored. Ask God to give you a new heart. Ask Him to give you a heart of flesh for your heart of stone and to write His laws on your heart. Ask Him to teach you to hate sin and make no place for it in your life. Now, believe God to work this work in you and know that He is faithful.

We see the fruit of this license all around us in these last days: Church kids getting pregnant, having abortions, doing drugs, sleeping around and getting into all kinds of trouble.

You can overcome; you must overcome. There are no excuses. NO MORE FLIRTING WITH SIN in the name of Jesus, Amen!

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The Nollywood & African Film Criticsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Awards ceremony was held in North Carolina last month. The event which is organized annually is aimed at recognizing professional excellence by players in the African film industry, including directors, actors, writers and humanitarians. Among the winners were Van Vicker and Uche Jombo.

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