July | August | September 2020
Volume 14
More Africa Employment in
throughBusiness Convergence
Issue 3
PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE “Take up one idea. Make that one idea your life — think of it, dream of it, live on that idea. Let the brain, muscles, nerves, every part of your body, be full of that idea, and just leave every other idea alone. This is the way to success.” - Swami Vivekananda The higher education system has expanded significantly across the world. The policy for generating jobs, however, is not able to absorb graduates from college
PORTRAIT OF The Times of Africa THE TIMES OF AFRICA is an international publication, which aspires to bring the stories of the economic, social and political fabric of the 54 nations of Africa to the World. For over a decade, we have been defying stereotypes and redrawing the lines to provide extensively researched reliable content for our robust readership network.
which, year after year, lead to an increase of the unemployed. The skills required for the new economy and the education offered to most students are drastically different. Furthermore, the availability of human capital has not kept economic growth and investment pace. This condition leads to systemic social uncertainty. We need higher education which focuses on high values and productive employment. Major three approaches are required which makes learning more attractive and generates job prospects for a person, apart from skills. Firstly, the education system should emphasise the entrepreneurship importance and students should focus on the creation of companies to provide innovation, independence and wealth generation skills. Therefore, University courses in arts, science and industry must include entrepreneurship training courses and topics. Second, the banking system should provide risk capital for new companies from the village level to potential entrepreneurs. Thirdly, the production of marketable goods and the strengthening of the buying power of the people by implementing a national mission will lead to economic pulls for human resources.
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In the school, government and private businesses, the banking system and the marketing system should be funded to help establish entrepreneurship schemes. Enterprises must deliver successful goods to succeed in their tasks. I’m sure many graduates’ skills are built so that they become entrepreneurs and work instead of employers. The five capacities to develop through the educational process are inquiry, innovation, technology and entrepreneurship. Expertise and diversity in various fields, creating opportunities and thinking
Our success in making TOA a brand within and outside India lies in the fact that we have focused on Afro-Indian partnerships and provided a link to the African marketplace. It is our earnest endeavour to make our readers conversant with all things that matter to the continent.
outside the box approach makes a successful entrepreneur. Wishing you a pleasant indulgence and a happy reading! April | May | June 2020
Kirit Sobti
Volume 13
Issue 2
Africa's Response to the Pandemic
©
COVER STORY July | August | September 2020
Volume 14
Issue 3
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Rohit Khattar
HEAD-DIGITAL MARKETING Atishay Sobti DIRECTOR, MARKETING Nipun Patani BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Shruti Jain CONTENT Atlanta Mahanta
More Africa Employment in
throughBusiness Convergence
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COVER STORY
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Content
8
Cover story More Employment in Africa through Business Convergence
COVER STORY More Employment in Africa through...............................
8
Digital Business.....................................................................
9
New Approach Towards Digital Business...................... 10 Job Opportunities.................................................................. 12 Challenges in Africa.............................................................. 12
START-UP Anzisha Prize Hall of Fame: Ten Young African Entrepreneurs!................................... 16 Baratang Miya......................................................................... 17
29
Spotlight Country Gabon’s Petroleum Potential Highlights.
Temitope Ogunsemo............................................................ 18 Njeri Rionge.............................................................................. 19 Wandile Zondo........................................................................ 20
JULY | AUGUST | SEPTEMBER 2020 | VOLUME 14 | ISSUE 3 Africa Program for Enterprises Development: Youth Employment ............................................................. 35
50
Sports
Why choose APED? ............................................................ 36
Africa: Surfing Olympic
APED delivers training excellence by ........................... 36
Gold Medal Hope!
What APED has accomplished: ...................................... 37
WEBINAR Digitalisation to transform agriculture in Africa and respond to COVID19............................................................ 41
JOURNALIST OF AFRICA Tribute to unconventional Journalist of Africa ........... 43 Mutoba Ngoma....................................................................... 21 Rapelang Rabana.................................................................... 22 Ntuthuko Shezi....................................................................... 23 Musa Kalenga.......................................................................... 24 Jessy Bityeki........................................................................... 25 Dina el Mofty.......................................................................… 26
Theme: Wildlife and Nature in Africa2020 Situation....................................................................... 44 Theme: Sustainable Development in Africa................. 46 Theme: Kho Kho potential in Ghana................................. 49
SPORTS
SPOTLIGHT COUNTRY Highlights of Madagascar!......................
FACE-TO-FACE
29
In the Index of Economic Freedom 2020 ..................... 30 From African Economic Outlook 2020 ......................... 30
CORPORATE HEAL AND BLISS ................................................................... 33 What heal and bliss can provide to Africa? .................. 33
Africa: Surfing Olympic Gold Medal Hope!.................... 50
TRAVEL & EXPLORE UNWTO: Future for Tourism in Africa.............................. 53 Recovery in 2021................................................................. 56
EN VOGUE One of the most lucrative business: Cosmetics Industry............................................................. 57 HAIR CARE............................................................................... 58
33
Corporate HEAL AND BLISS
SKIN CARE............................................................................... 58 MAKEUP................................................................................... 59 PERSONAL CARE AND TOILETRIES................................. 59 FRAGRANCES........................................................................ 59
BON APPETIT Nature heals almost everything: Traditional medicine of Africa............................................ 60
Brain storm Are you ready to challenge your brain.............................. 65
COVER STORY
More Employment in Africa through Business Convergence
Across Africa, online marketplaces are starting to boost incomes, create jobs, and offer new opportunities. These digital platforms could create around 3 million new jobs on the continent by 2025. Along with creating new jobs, they can stimulate skill development, boost supply and demand for goods and services. We suggest an approach that fosters mutual understanding, involves a sharing of resources and builds the right technological infrastructure. Jumia, Uber, Souq, Thundafund, Travelstart and a number of other online markets are starting to increase revenues, create jobs and offer employees new possibilities. is a heated trigger for debate in many developed countries whether such
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platforms merely cannibalize the revenues of brick and mortar companies and undermine job security. However the potential downside of rapid online market expansion in many African regions where the retail sector and formal labour markets are still underdeveloped and the efficiency benefits are substantial. Online marketplaces could create around 3 million new jobs across Africa by 2025 according to a research analysis by Boston Consulting Group. They could also boost African economies by expanding the supply of goods and services. These businesses will unlock new demand in remote locations, which will boost consumer spending.
Governments need to create a healthy environment in which these businesses can thrive. Governments need to create a healthy environment in which these businesses can prosper, deliver inclusive economic growth in less served regions and promote national development goals, in order to ensure that online markets realize their full potential. We recommend a three-pronged approach that promotes mutual understanding both of public and private sectors’ opportunities and concerns, involves resource-sharing and builds the right technological infrastructure and management systems.
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COVER STORY
Digital Business
Online markets are digital platforms which essentially communicate with customers with independent third-party suppliers of products and services. For these platforms there are four basic business models: business-to-consumer business-to-business consumer-to-consumer consumer-to-business Platforms such as Jumia, Konga. com,
and Takealot.com
can
serve
as both B2C and B2B marketplaces. Classified-ad sites OLX and Avito are C2C platforms. South Africa’s Thundafund, a crowdfunding platform for entrepreneurs, is an example of a C2B marketplace.
Marketplace
platforms
operate within complex ecosystems that often span many countries. The typical ecosystem includes merchants, customers, and logistics providers, all of whom interact with one another. In Africa, online marketplaces also often employ field agents who recruit and train www.thetimesofafrica.com
merchants and customers who are new
with the product, the customer ships it
to such platforms. Their role is mainly to
back to the merchant through the same
remove friction among users unfamiliar
logistics company and receives a refund.
with the online world. In the typical
If the payment is made electronically,
transaction,
their
the refund is processed through the
products and purchasing information
merchants
offer
online marketplace. Online marketplaces
through the online marketplace. After
can boost economies, especially in
a customer searches the platform
developing African nations by improving
and purchases a product, the logistics
market efficiency and increasing supply
partner delivers the product to the
and demand.
customer. Customers who do not wish to pay electronically in Africa often pay in cash upon delivery. If unsatisfied
Globally, there is a correlation between higher e -commerce penetration and how efficiently
commercial
transactions
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COVER STORY are made. There seems to be a clear
raising
marketplaces
50% more of the time. The large scale
difference in efficiency based on “goods
also make information on buyers and
and dynamic pricing models of such
market efficiency” scores published by
sellers more transparent, such as by
marketplaces help them more efficiently
the World Economic Forum between
indicating trustworthiness through the
match supply with demand throughout
African countries in which e-commerce
publication of reviews, reducing the
the day. These tools are especially
accounts for more than 0.5% of retail
time and expense required to verify the
useful in regions where low population
sales and those in which it accounts
reliability of both parties. Hospitality
densities and limited traffic flow can
for less. Similar correlations between
marketplaces, which provide relevant
depress taxi utilization rates.
e-commerce penetration and labour
information and reviews about both
market efficiency are found in the rest
hosts and guests, also exemplify the
of the world, and they grow stronger as
value of online transparency. This is
economies become more developed.
particularly important in Africa, where
As has been shown in regions where
funds.
Online
trust in online transactions remains low.
By creating new ways to reach customers and raise capital, online marketplaces significantly boost the supply of goods and services to meet untapped demand. Conventional hotels
enable
and inns, for example, are limited in
market
assets to be used more productively.
Africa and can be too expensive for
efficiency in several ways. For one, they
Uber vehicles carry passengers for
budget travellers. Airbnb creates new
reduce the number of intermediaries in
30% more of the time they are on the
supply by enabling owners of apartments
commercial transactions by enabling
road compared with conventional taxis,
and houses to rent their residences
merchants to sell directly to consumers.
thanks to the company’s system for
to travellers who otherwise might not
This is especially valuable to merchants
matching drivers and passengers, which
have booked an overnight stay. Such
in Africa, where conventional retail
reduces idle time, according to a 2016
hospitality sites also open up new
channels
study by economists Judd Cramer and
travel destinations without the need
for
Alan B. Krueger. Uber vehicles travelling
for heavy investment in dedicated hotel
example, allow entrepreneurs to bypass
the same distance over the course of
infrastructure.
banks and other intermediaries when
a day as taxis also carry passengers
online marketplaces have proliferated, these
platforms
remain
Crowdfunding
improve
underdeveloped.
marketplaces,
Online
marketplaces
also
New Approach Towards Digital Business The funds required to start or expand
and
economy, because the sales of brick
enterprises via online marketplaces,
financial institutions like Stanbic Bank
and mortar retail channels are simply
especially in areas where access to
and Barclays, Tanzania Bank of Africa
cannibalised. However, recent evidence
capital are limited, are better for small
and CRDB Bank and Uganda. Moreover,
suggests that online markets generate
entrepreneurs.
Auto-Care
for
several online businesses in Africa serve
mainly incremental growth in sales, even
crowdfunding platforms. For example,
in developing economies. In the European
institutions on many African market
in 2017 Thundafund helped raise over
capital, a BCG survey found that only
places. In order to provide small instant
$1.4 million, which financed over 400
19 percent of riding hailing excursions
start-up loans to qualified dealers who
projects. Patrick Schofield, the founder
represented taxi cannibalization.
sell on its website, Jumia, for example,
of Thundafund, also launched Uprise
formed a partnership with the mobile
recently. Africa is a small-scale, $400,
lender industry. Uber also provides
000-$6 million crowdfunding company
financial support of various types.
for small businesses. Many online
Partnerships have been formed with the
sceptics argue that purchases do not
vehicle leasing firms Easyway Leasing,
contribute anything or nothing to the
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looking
Easyway
loans can share their data with financial
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Traders
Egyptian
We believe that Africa will increase the
economic
benefits
of
online
markets and the possible adverse risks to existing companies and employee performance are minimal. This mainly reflects the underdevelopment of many www.thetimesofafrica.com
COVER STORY of the continent’s economies and formal
projects, the GDP of Africa as a whole,
job markets. First of all, it is important
will continue to grow 3% to 4% annually
to consider that the market potential
by 2023. The retail market in Africa is
in Africa is still enormously untapped.
still extremely undeveloped. From the
Whereas GDP growth in the United
outlook, 136 retail outlets were located
States, Europe and Japan averaged 1.7
in Latin America per 1 million in 2018,
per cent from 2007 to 2017, low-income
568 per million in Europe, and 930 in
economies like Ethiopia and the Republic
the United States. Less than 15 formal
of the Congo, as well as middle-income
retail stores per million people were
countries such as Botswana and South
found in Africa. This very low penetration
Africa, increased from 7 to 8% over that
indicates that e-commerce has only
period. The International Monetary Fund
a marginal potential to move current
revenues to the formal retail market. The
geography
of
the
country,
scarce transport facilities and lean capital markets are preventing the rapid expansion of retail brick and mortar. While Europe has an average distance of 1,300 kilometres from major cities, Africa has a distance of 4,100 kilometres. The cost to bring a product within Europe from the manufacture to an end-user is nearly 90% more costly than that of the outside. The average cost for the logistics industry in Africa is 320 per cent. In Europe, 17% of businesses cite access to finance as a major restriction, while in East Asia, only 11% of businesses cite access as a restriction. 39% of companies in SubSaharan Africa report restricted financial access. The increase in the use of online platforms has distorted labour markets in developed economies, where labour laws and regulations clearly define themselves for a validated model. But in Africa, most of the workers are in the informal sector that is largely undocumented. For example, 71% of Nigerian workers are self-employed, and another 9%, according to the International Labor Organization, are employed as family members. In subSaharan Africa, the IMF estimates the informal economy is 38% of GDP. As a result, a large number of Africans are able mainly to develop labour-based standards that align with online workers and employers’ needs. Last but not least, bringing more people into the formal workforce will help governments implement the regulations, measure economic activities better and improve taxation. Official jobs shall provide workers with requisite documents to obtain mortgages and personal loans and check their skills and experience.
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COVER STORY
Job Opportunities Employment generation for Africa as
based on our own estimation of online
concerned. The biggest job gains are
a whole has been an urgent priority, with
retail revenues and expects annual
expected in consumer goods, which will
the population expected to grow to 1.5
revenue growth of 25 % to 30 per cent
account for 58% of the jobs created by
billion by 2025. As of 2015, one-third of
by 2025, in line with recent patterns and
2025 directly or indirectly which will be
the 420 million Africans aged between
growth rates in other regions.
followed by mobility (18%) and travel
15 and 35 years were unemployed, according to the Africa Development Bank. This figure sprang to 85% when those who work in the informal sector were included in the ‘vulnerably employed.’ Our research shows that by 2025 online markets will generate about 3 million new jobs in Africa — approximately one out of 150 African unemployed or one out of 15 unemployed people aged between 15 and 24 years of age. Our estimate is based both on current direct, indirect and inductive jobs and current and projected revenue from online markets in the region. It is also
According to the research analysis
and hospitality (9%).
of BCG about 100,000 African people,
The economic activity generated
including web developers, operators and
by online marketplaces can boost
marketing staff, are directly employed
employment and incomes in several
by online markets. There will be a
ways. It can create entirely new jobs,
million more jobs indirectly created by
stimulate skills development programs,
markets including tradesmen, logistics
and increase demand for goods and
staff, passenger vehicle drivers, hotel
services in locations currently beyond
staff and housekeepers. An additional
the reach of conventional retail networks.
1,8 million jobs would be “driven” or
It can also bring new people into the
generated by the increased online
formal workforce, such as women and
business operation. Car mechanics and
youth, who in some countries have been
cleaners, tour guides and craftspeople
excluded from the labour market.
will be involved in the occupations
Challenges in Africa Although
online
markets
are
economically promising, there are a number of hurdles facing both the public and private sectors. We interviewed executives at online markets in Africa who mentioned four main impediments which have to be overcome before these companies can reach their full potential. In order for online markets to fulfil their potential to create employment and
Even when online purchases are placed
are unable to reach the destination, 30 to
boost economic growth, significant
it is very difficult to reliably deliver goods
40 per cent of the products ordered are
improvement in communications and
to consumers, particularly via a so-called
returned. Some online markets in India
infrastructure is necessary. Despite the
last mile to buyers’ homes, through poor
are struggling with poor infrastructure
dramatic growth in the last 10 years,
road and rail links between cities or even
to tackle these obstacles by running
only 20% of sub-Saharan Africans are
remote villages. Another problem is poor
their own logistics service in major
internet-connected, which means that
coordination of distribution networks.
cities and forming local partnerships in
the vast majority of consumers can not
Some marketplaces online thus report
smaller cities. The company also tries to
shop online or pay electronically at home.
that from the fact that delivery services
overcome the bottlenecks in its last-mile
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COVER STORY distribution to customers in Africa, as is the case with Ace and Exelot. However, substantial road investments are still necessary. For online markets in Africa, the current regulatory climate is dull. The legal framework for e-commerce in many countries on the continent has begun to be implemented, as well as guidelines on data protection, consumer protection and online payment. Many consumers
are
therefore
wary
of
electronic transactions, fear of fraud or misuse of data. There is also a great lack of confidence in e-commerce between policymakers. Some African governments are reluctant to open up the traditionally closed sectors to competition via the online market because customers warn that online markets harm their companies. The severity of the problem claimed by certain parties is always exaggerated, even though caution is understandable. Nevertheless, entry barriers remain high on most of the continent for online marketplaces. Although mobile subscriptions are growing quickly, many Africans lack access to online platforms. Many consumers in the region can not understand online content or use digital
initiatives in Africa, offer digital talent
is required to enable small businesses
shortage training programmes. Jumia
to access official financial markets and
provides, for example, online training
attract foreign direct investment. In fact,
including video tutorials and tests
according to WAIPA, approximately 40
for pricing, optimization of the search
percent of African nations do not even
engines, inventory management and
have FDI agencies.
order fulfilment. Many countries offer creative ways to fill the digital skills gap, including a school in Morocco, 1337 specialist in computer programming. However, these initiatives are still not enough to meet the broad needs of the region.
difficult for online markets to build up by the region’s highly fragmented markets and heterogenous legal frameworks. Meanwhile, the large customs, practices and habits differences require providers
significant
to adjust their value proposals to
high analphabet rates in some African
percentage of small businesses and
numerous local markets. It is also
countries.
entrepreneurs in Africa complain that
difficult for governments in Africa to
limited capital access greatly limits their
expand on-line marketplaces. The risks
ability to expand into online markets.
of losing regulatory control, personal
Of all e-commerce funds collected in
data protection, the possible breakdown
Africa, 90% are focused in 5 countries,
of employment standards, and the
according to the World Association of
threat posed to traditional business
Promotional Agencies (WAIPA), namely
sub-sectors include these concerns.
Egypt, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria and
There are many nations without clear
South Africa. It is difficult, for example,
e-commerce
to borrow funds from formal financial
in these countries are concerned that
institutions to buy or carry stocks. While
their financial supervision, taxation
certain online markets offer merchant
and regulatory systems might pose
financing of their own, more development
challenges for online markets. Most
technologies
for
transactions
with
There are a number of barriers to growth in online trade-in digital analphabetism in African consumers and providers. Traders do not know how to adapt their value chains to the digital world. And digital marketers, technology experts, user interfaces and user experience designers and other professional staff need to succeed and also need to look out for online marketplaces outside of Africa. Several online markets, as well as an increasing number of public-private www.thetimesofafrica.com
As
Access to markets in many parts of Africa can also be a challenge. It is
noted
above,
a
frameworks.
Politicians
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COVER STORY policymakers in Africa are unsure how to
sectors in many African economies are
create a spirit of trust and collaboration,
deal with revenues generated by online
protected against the competition, are
the sharing of certain data, actions and
traders and markets. The collection
incentivised by the government or are
benefits is essential. For instance, online
and use of customer information are at
closely regulated. Policymakers worry
markets can exchange aggregated,
the heart of business models in online
about disruptive domestic balances in
anonymous information that benefits
markets.
online markets. In many African nations,
urban growth. A system for certification
for example, the taxi industry is highly
that dealers comply with the right
regulated. These regulations can be
standards, legislation and regulations
avoided by the online mobility markets,
could be part of shared actions. Online
policymakers
new
markets and the public sector might
companies can also cannibalize the taxi
also take joint actions to ensure that
industry. Governments also worry about
opportunities are shared among all
social tension between displaced firms
segments of the public, including those
and employees.
who in the offline world are sometimes
Governments are worried about how online markets will turn the workforce of their nations. Online businesses change traditional job structures and redetermine roles and responsibilities, raising the question of the sustainability of their workflows and whether the training or career opportunity they
worried.
These
need is provided to their employers on
Public sector and online business
a long-term basis. Another concern
cultures will enter into discussions to
is to deprive traders of their ability to
establish a shared understanding of
adapt or challenge decisions that affect
jobs, skills development and inclusive
their businesses in online markets that
growth opportunities. Both sides must
rely on computers instead of human
therefore clearly consider the needs
interactions
and expectations of each other, as well
to
determine
prices,
assignments and assessments. Some
traditional
business
as the effect that they can achieve. To sub-
excluded. Online markets and public organizations can then work together to build a healthy digital environment, taking measures to eliminate hurdles to online markets and to alleviate public sector concerns. Online markets and government organisations. For instance, they can work together on skills training programs and the development of techniques, such as digital identity systems, that ensure transparency on platforms on the market. The public and private sectors can also create a framework of coregulation that balances social and political risks with the promise that online marketplaces can create value. Because of the low online marketplace use across Africa, considerable efforts must be made at many levels in order to ensure that these platforms fulfil their potential for new jobs. This promise relies on the private and public sector’s ability to work together to create the right digital environment. Instead of being considered as forces of chaotic disorder, the development of online markets in an environment that is designed from the very beginning to bring economic and social benefits to everyone. References: Boston Consulting Group (BCG)
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COVER STORY
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START-UP
Anzisha Prize Hall of Fame: Ten Young African Entrepreneurs! Ten African entrepreneurs whose improvements to entrepreneurship have begun before the age of 25 are awarded with the Anzisha Award. Entrepreneurs from South Africa , Nigeria, Kenya, Sambia,
Cameroon
and
Egypt
are
presented as honours in the Hall of Fame. Their inspiring stories and achievements provide young Africans with inspiration and guide. The award thinks that more young people should focus on the entrepreneurial essence of the continent to minimise youth unemployment. The names in this list reflect the award’s long-standing conviction that more people
should
consider
enterprise
as a choice. The Anzishas Prize is a
partnership with African Leadership Academy and Mastercard Foundation. The inductees are: five female and five male entrepreneurs whose transition from high school or university into entrepreneurship demonstrates the importance of starting early to shape entrepreneurial careers. Six African countries serve various sectors and six different sectors. Some honoraries have faced unemployment problems and, after watching a parent run a small company, many of them have become entrepreneurs.
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START-UP employment through vocational training such as fashion design, interior design, and cooking. She picked interior design and was interested in the business side of that industry. This project was aimed at training unemployed people to run their own tuckshop business. Baratang approached the project and after completing the course, she was granted R6000. She used the money to buy equipment and fund her interior design business, which had no official name at the time but was fondly called Baratang’s Curtains and had the full trust of her close-knit Klerksdorp community. In 2003, a few years after completing her studies at the University of Cape Town, Baratang’s passion for empowering young women and girls from underprivileged backgrounds led her to create Girl Hype, a coding school for women and girls to take up space in the tech industry. From selling sweets to dedicating a space for women and girls to flourish, success becomes synonymous with anything Baratang starts and how society views her. But in 2007, Baratang was facing some challenging times. She had been working from the age of 18 and her mind and body were telling her enough. Burning out is not rare for entrepreneurs. Most
Baratang Miya
entrepreneurs will experience burnout but some are good at ignoring it until they can’t anymore. This burnout helped Baratang realise the importance of rest and slowing down. She had to take time
At the age of 18, after graduating
years as a salesperson, Baratang was
for herself to re-centre and refocus on
from high school, Baratang tried her
bored and in need of stable employment
things that mattered. Now, at the age
hand at sales. She joined Saleshouse
to provide for her new baby. A friend’s
of 49 and a mother of three, Baratang
and her job was to convince miners to
recommendation led her to the now-
has encouraged her children to pursue
open accounts with the various brands
defunct Department of Manpower, a
entrepreneurship.
linked to the retail company. After three
government initiative aimed at providing
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START-UP
Temitope Ogunsemo Temitope Ogunsemo whose journey as an entrepreneur started when he was just 24 years old. From an early age, Temitope had a deep interest in the world of entrepreneurship. At the age of 23, when he first built the idea of Krystal Digital, Temitope’s first point of call for support was not a bank or a silent investor: it was from family and friends, who not only believed in his vision but spurred him on with some capital of their own. Age should not determine whether or not you should start something. A statement that Temitope believes that every young person should abide by when pursuing entrepreneurship. Today, Krystal Digital is a 3-million-dollar company. Although Temitope and the team have been credited with success, he has had to understand the importance of failure on his entrepreneurial journey and how his understanding has evolved from when he was younger to now.
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START-UP
Njeri Rionge Njeri was 19 years old and working as a hairdresser but would have a ‘side hustle’ that saw her buy yoghurt from a premium yoghurt maker and sell it to schools. Now at the age of 43, as she jogs her memory, she believes that these entrepreneurial adventures set her up for longevity as an entrepreneur today. She started working for a company that sold cleaning detergents, and she would later be crowned the salesperson of the year. Being engaged in entrepreneurship at an early age and developing her understanding of the industry set Njerion the course to being dubbed “a serial entrepreneur” and a leading pioneer in the ICT sector. She founded Wananchi online -that has since been transformed into Wananchi Group Holdings –one of East Africa’s leading providers of pay-tv, broadband internet and VoIP services. ‘Always do what you love’ is a phrase that has become synonymous with success. However, how far can love take you? For Njeri, it got her to where she is now and beyond what she ever thought her life would be. As a mother, a spiritual being, a warrior passionate about her continent, she is now, in her words, in her third act. Her legacy, she believes, is slowly building and something grand is about to take place.
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THE TIMES OF AFRICA
| 19
START-UP
Wandile Zondo He was just 21 years old with only his
matriculation
(a
school-leaving
examination in South Africa), but what he also had was a penchant for unearthing the beauty of second-hand clothing and the desire to build something for the people of the township that raised him. Wandile Zondo is an avid reader of self-help books. Mention any and he has probably read it. From an early age, he has been fascinated by the stories of how people started their journeys and how they became what they are to the masses. Growing up in Soweto, Wandile was exposed to a part of South Africa that is so integral to the historical context of the country. Vibrant and eclectic, Soweto has seen many great South African tragedies and has produced some of the country’s greatest gems. In 2001, Wandile and his friends capitalised on the lokshin culture. Lokshin culture explored the intricacies behind township culture in South Africa. During the years of 2003-2005, Wandile and his friends began doing research about street culture. They attended events. They spoke to neighbours and friends. They situated themselves on the ground. They documented the stories of all those they spoke to and decided to capitalise on that by creating streetwear that told the story of township culture. In 2007, they opened their first store in Molofo and have vowed to keep their doors open no matter what. For Wandile, his success was a culmination of factors rather than a singular one. It was a mass of support and a desire to want to be and do better for himself, his family and community.
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START-UP
Mutoba Ngoma far as testing the product on his friend’s car. It worked, but lack of funding would make him stop. In 2009, when Zambian Airlines went
under,
Mutoba,
now
aged 25, took a leap of faith to give all his focus to being an entrepreneur and
launching
Tapera
Industries.
Interestingly, before his retrenchment, Mutoba was already selling his products to his colleagues. Now, at the age of 35, Mutoba believes the advantage of starting early is paramount in achieving tangible results in a business. Now that Tapera Industries is doing well, and has received worldwide recognition, Mutoba recalls his early days and the many challenges he had to overcome. For him, the technicalities behind running Tapera Industries were what stood out the most, along with the fact he had to wear many hats in the business. To combat any shortcomings of knowledge about operating equipment and running a business, Mutoba obtained a Diploma in manufacturing. He also received entrepreneurship training as part of the SIDA-funded International Labour Organization (ILO) Youth Employment Project in the country. This helped him in developing a business that would While
working
Zambian
the UK, Mutoba became interested
Airlines, MutobaNgoma decided
in the renewable energy industry.
to leave and try his hand at being
He was just 21 years old and
an
had
entrepreneur.
at
This
would
obtained
Zambia’s changing economy. Through his works and recognitions
aeronautical
from around the world, he hopes society
He would
can begin to perceive youth in Zambia
‘entrepreneur’. Upon his return to
process vegetable oil to be used
as a more proactive population that can
Zambia after leaving to study in
as a biodiesel for cars. He got as
help address global challenges.
not be the first time he was an
engineering
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an
not only thrive but evolve alongside
degree.
THE TIMES OF AFRICA
| 21
START-UP
Rapelang Rabana Rapelang’s first foray into the world of entrepreneurship came at the age of 22 when she was adamant about not getting a job. She had just graduated from the University of Cape Town with a degree in Computer Sciences and developed one of the country’s first VOIP applications called Yiego (2007). Yiego can be likened to modern-day WhatsApp and Viber calls. At that time, she was producing innovative software that many had not discovered in the country let alone the world. In 2014, Rapelang started Rekindle Learning, an innovative learning & development company
providing
mobile
and
computer learning applications that enable a broad range of knowledge to be quickly entrenched and mastered. While Rapelang entered the world of entrepreneurship at an early age, her trajectory has given her enough time now, at the age of 38, to reflect on what she would tell her younger self to motivate her to continue. By the age of 30, Rapelang’s successes had come knocking on her door. She featured on Forbes 30 under 30; she had started her own business and was moulding herself into a reputable entrepreneur. Rapelang’s hunger for walking to the beat of her own drum has not died down. Instead, it has been fuelled by her interest in connecting the possibilities of tech with a continent that is full of unrivalled potential.
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START-UP
Ntuthuko Shezi By the age of 26, Ntuthuko Shezi had started nine businesses. At the age of 7, Ntuthuko already had a taste of the entrepreneurial world. His mum was very ‘entrepreneurial’ as she was a school teacher who supplemented
her
income
by
selling sweets, fried fish and local pastries. Livestock Wealth is business number 14 for Ntuthuko. It is an asset management firm with a twist. The assets managed by the company are cows, which are kept on three farms in KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State. With years of experience as an entrepreneur, imparting knowledge to those who want to venture into entrepreneurship, Ntuthuko Shezi is where you can start. As the world’s reliance continues to shift to agriculture, there is a need to not only showcase entrepreneurship as a possible career choice but one that is exciting and integral to the social fabric of communities.
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| 23
START-UP
Musa Kalenga Like student,
any
19-year-old Musa
University
Kalenga
was
interested in having fun during his years at Witwatersrand University in Johannesburg. Therefore, when he and his friends gathered to seriously pursue their first business venture, Monatefellaz, it came as a shock to those who knew him well. Having just started first year of University, Musa was already thinking about entrepreneurship as a way to work for himself and become his own boss. He had the “age-old” desire to become a “millionaire by 30”. Musa’s growth as an entrepreneur took an ‘organic’ approach. “Our first job was with one of the top four banks. We had to research the youth (market) and produce solutions around savings and investments in order to build market share and teach them how to save,” he says. “Since that first campaign, everything just seemed to pick up and we got more and more jobs.” Challenges are inevitable during the entrepreneurial journey, for Musa it was being young and black and dealing with imposter syndrome that would cause him to self-doubt and question his chosen path.“I didn’t know running a business or being an entrepreneur was a thing. I didn’t have that glamourous view of entrepreneurship as it is defined today. It was a bonus for people to pay to solve a problem,” he muses.
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START-UP
Jessy Bityeki
customers
for
telecommunications
such as routers, computers etc. she saw it as an opportunity to provide the equipment. In 2016, when she decided to resign and focus solely on her business. You would think that after
When Jessy Bityeki decided to become an entrepreneur at the age of 24, her mother was sceptical. To placate her mother, Jessy worked at a big corporation while running her business Queen Service –a service company
12 years of running Queen Service her mother would’ve warmed up to the fact that entrepreneurship was what Jessy was truly passionate about. That same year, Jessy transitioned Queen Service into Vox-Pop –a digital marketing agency.
selling telecommunications equipment.
With a deep desire to improve
In 2004, Jessy was an employee at a
her community coupled with a ‘can-
telecommunications company. After
do’ attitude, Jessy’s transition into
noticing the growing need amongst
entrepreneurship has been a journey of
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both self-discovery and an eagerness to try new things. When reflecting on why she started she had this to say: “Entrepreneurship is something you feel. But you have so many questions and doubts plaguing your mind that eventually, you reach a point where you have to just try.”As she’s grown her business acumen skills, she is quick to highlight the power of networking. “I wished I had known when I was younger what it meant to keep people in your circle. I was overconfident and thought I could do everything myself,” she says laughing lightly. “That is not how business works. Networking can fling open some doors you thought were closed.”
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| 25
START-UP
Dina el Mofty Recognised as one of Egypt’s most influential entrepreneurs, Dina el Mofty Career as an entrepreneur is enviable. But before she created a successful business and impacted the lives of many young people, her decision to become an entrepreneur wasn’t as grandiose as one might think. “I just wanted to do something that had a purpose and had an impact. It wasn’t about entrepreneurship per say. I was very passionate about education at the time,” she says. So, starting her own business at 24 seemed like a good launching point. Injaz Egypt is a non-profit organisation empowering youth to reach their full potential and
by
becoming
entrepreneurs.
hands-on
By
educational
employees delivering
programs
in
Financial Literacy, Work Readiness, and Entrepreneurship, Injaz partners with
businesses
and
educational
institutions across the country to supplement school curriculums with programs designed to expand the potential
of
students
and
young
graduates. Establishing an organisation like Injaz is no easy feat. At the time of starting the business, 24-year-old Dina had recently gotten married and was pregnant with her first baby. Technically, she had two babies on the way.
enthusiasm for entrepreneurship is
an entrepreneurial mindset will help you
evident in her work at Injaz and it’s
overcome any challenges or problems
one of the main reasons she believes
you might face later on in life.” In terms
A year after Injaz was launched, Dina
the entrepreneurial mindset should be
of becoming an entrepreneur, Dina had
was joined by Dahlia Helaly, who started
encouraged. Even if she does believe
this to say: “It’s a fantastic opportunity
off working as a temp in the business,
that not everyone can become an
to have your own thing. Not everyone
later becoming partner. With two
entrepreneur. In her view, “It’s a charater
is going to be as driven or willing to
women heading such an organisation
thing. I like promoting entrepreneurship
suffer for their business. Of course,
came a set of challenges, namely that
because it really helps with your
entrepreneurship can be taught. But it’s
they were young and female. Dina’s
mindset when you are younger. Having
not for everyone.”
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SPOTLIGHT COUNTRY
Highlights of Madagascar! Telma and Ericsson launch commercial 5G services Telma
to manage two big 5 G cases of mobile
Telma. In the 3.6-3.7Ghz medium band,
Madagascar said on June 30th, 2020
Mobile
network
provider
broadband (eMBB) and fixed wireless
the operator controlled the 5 G network
in collaboration with the Swedish
(FWA) applications for the Madagascar
using the new Ericsson Radio System
telecoms
region.
radio link and transport goods. Ericsson now has 41 5 G live networks in 24
now based in Antananarivo’s capital
Telma said that it can provide new user interfaces with improved capacitance, higher data rates and decreased latency, from game to IoT and business applications. In addition , technology would benefit greatly
cities and Toamasina, allowing Telma
from healthcare and education, added
G deals.
manufacturer
Ericsson,
it successfully launched the 5 G commercial network in Madagascar. In October 2019, Terlma chose Ericsson to upgrade its core and radio network in Madagascar. 5 G network that is
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countries with Telma ‘s introduction. The live networks of Ericsson are a part of 95 5 G commercial contracts or foreign contracts between Ericsson and operators, 55 of which are released in 5
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SPOTLIGHT COUNTRY
In the Index of Economic Freedom 2020 The economic freedom score of Madagascar is 60.5 which makes it the 99th most free economy in the 2020 ranking. Its total score has risen by 3.9 points as the judicial efficiency and property rights have increased. Madagascar is eighth in the Sub-Saharan Africa region among 47 nations, with a
The Government’s aim is to maintain
growth has also risen. In order to achieve
cumulative score much higher than the
economic growth through a structural
these goals, the government must
national average and round the world
reform agenda aimed at increasing
reinforce the rule of law, flexible the labor
average. After three years this year,
investment capacity and reducing the
market and preserve political stability in
Madagascar ‘s economy returned to the
financial risks associated with its state-
order to raise investor trust.
ranks of the reasonably free.
owned power and water utilities. GDP
From African Economic Outlook 2020 In 2019, the real GDP growth is
increased, rising from 3.5 % of GDP in
priority in favor of public spending. The
estimated at 5.2%. The primary sector is
2015 to 8.3% in 2019, infrastructural
central bank has increased its gross
dominated by traditional farming, which
requirements are still inadequate.
official reserves inprudent monetary
is highly vulnerable to climate change (droughts, cyclones), and has a 22.4 percent share in 2019. In a changing climate, the share of the secondary sector has fallen from 18.5% in 2015 to 21.3% in 2019 in export companies (extractive industries in the export processing zone). The tertiary sector (0.8 point growth), the largest in the economy and 58 percent of GDP in
In 2018, the budget deficit, 1.5% of GDP, rose to 2.4% in 2019 and is expected to grow to 4.1% by 2020 and to 4.9% by 2021. After a surplus of 0.8%
According to the IMF, the possibility of unsustainable external debt , high in 2015, was reduced. Between 2015 to and were 8.6% in 2018, slowly declining
where informal activity (trade, transport)
to 6.2% in 2019. Actually the growth of
is concentrated.
Through rising tax
GDP in infrastructure investment (port,
revenues, public finances increased to
airport, roads and energy) is expected
an estimated 12.2% of GDP in 2019 , up
to be 5.3 percent in 2020, and 5.1
from 10.5% in 2015. While government
percent in 2012. The creation of further
investment
government resources should be a high
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and 5.8% in 2021.
in 2020 to 1.5% and 2021 to 2.4%.
2019, inflationary pressures were high
gradually
expected to decrease to 6.1% in 2020
shifted to 0.2% by 2019 and is projected
is driven by the least productive sectors
has
vs 2.4 months in 2015) . Inflation is
of GDP in 2018 , the current account
2019, has not changed significantly but
spending
policies (4.3 months of import in 2019
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SPOTLIGHT COUNTRY
The economy remains highly dependent on imported commodities (food, intermediate, oil), which account for more than 71% of imports. The highest value-added export products are small-scale agriculture (vanilla, cloves, cocoa beans), though the food industry remains underdeveloped (just 2% of GDP). The structural constraints of the sector (accountability, finance, energy), instability in areas of production or difficult land and financing access have not been eased by public policies. In agriculture, almost 80 % of the population works on subsistence crops (rice, cassava, maize) and the employment of this sector is largely poor, with substantial underemployment.
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JOURNALIST OF AFRICA
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CORPORATE
HEAL AND BLISS Heal ‘&’ Bliss is a professionally managed organization providing healthcare solutions at affordable rates. Facilitating variegated services
What heal and bliss can provide to Africa? •
in the diagnosis and treatment of foreign international patients in India, this establishment ensures to provide first-world services at third-world rates. Setting up of hospitals & diagnostic centres on a turnkey basis is
including tie-ups with hospitals •
areas through mobile health units, mobile diagnostic units and holding specifically camps is our inherent objective.
Bringing doctors to Africa for providing treatment and training
another forte of Heal & Bliss. Providing solutions to increase the reach and effectiveness of the healthcare delivery system in underserved
Patient referral for medical tourism
•
Integrated Medical Management Solutions
•
Hospital, Clinic and integrated healthcare technology
•
Long term training, management and maintenance courses
•
Establishment of new diagnosis centres
•
Setting up of telemedical facilities
•
Establishment of super speciality hospital
•
Supply of Medical equipment
•
Supply & setting up of pharmaceutical industry
•
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Preventive healthcare program
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| 33
CORPORATE Fitch Solutions reports that the US
billion North Africa will be 8.7%. Major
have all types of healthcare ranging
$182.9 billion health care market of the
initiatives are undertaken in North Africa
from preventive health conductive
Middle East and North Africa (MENA)
since the 1980s to improve the health
treatment to rehabilitation and
region is expected to expand to 261.1
sector and investments in medical care,
curative treatments including all
billion US dollars at a constant exchange
vaccination, water access and improved
types of surgeries
rate of 13.6 percent compound annual
nutrition have decreased infant and
growth rate ( CAGR) by 2023. By
maternal
2023, the CAGR area in the USD 30.5
expectancy.
We as health tourism providers
•
Minimally invasive surgeries:(Robotic, Endoscopic
mortality
and
longer life
and Laparoscopic) •
Transplant surgeries
•
Replacement surgeries
•
Cardiac surgeries
•
Cosmetic surgeries
•
Advanced oncology treatment and prevention including oncosurgery, Radiation oncology, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy and gene therapy
•
Dental treatments
•
Infertility treatments
Major pointers according to the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) •
Rapid socio-economic changes
•
Demographic transitions- increase of juvenile population
•
A population which started ageing and
•
The evolution of lifestyles - New consumption trends, new diseases and new needs have been developed, which is a “present” challenge for countries in the region.
The ECA argues that healthcare
to health inequality. In fact, the ability of
diversification
systems need to establish a clear
the private sector to improve the public
medical specialties to new demands,
vision and plan, reform and introduce
health system should be better explored.
development of job opportunities in
more inclusive policies to support
The reforms also suggest that regional
medical and paramedical sectors, etc.) in
medical spending, and achieve universal
policymakers will tackle the issue of the
compliance with ECA.
coverage to address these current
health infrastructure and human capital
challenges , particularly those related
(access and proximity to healthcare,
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THE TIMES OF AFRICA
and
adaptation
of
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CORPORATE
Africa Program for Enterprises Development: Youth Employment
by the continent’s youth unemployment would lead to sustainable economic development,
rendering
Africa
‘s
demographic dividend economic. The majority of young people working in the informal sector face their own problems. The lack of wage employment forces young people into the informal sector, which is estimated to constitute almost 80% of jobs in some countries. Young people and women are far more likely to be working in the informal sector than other groups. The biggest obstacle they face is the lack of structured employment, and 90% of Africa ‘s youth live in low and medium income countries. 10 to 15 percent of young people working, have wage jobs, while 30-50 percent are unemployed. In comparison, countries with higher middle incomes such as Algeria and South Africa have raised pay and lower vulnerable jobs, but still high unemployment levels with almost one in five young people unemployed. Data source from: African development Bank Group
Youth is the biggest asset in Africa. The
third is vulnerable and only one in six
young population in Africa is increasing
is working for wage reasons. Juvenile
rapidly, and is estimated to increase to
unemployment is nearly double that of
more than 830 million by 2050. If properly
adults, with major country variations.
utilized, this rise in the population of the
The problem is not just unemployment,
working age will help rise productivity
but underemployment, which hits a peak
and increase sustainable economic
in low-income countries at just over half
development across the continent.
of the population.
Today, however, most African young people do not have stable economic opportunities. One third of the African youths of almost 420 million aged 1535 are unemployed and depressed, a www.thetimesofafrica.com
There is therefore an immediate need to build young people’s resources with tremendous potential impacts. Tackling the many factors exacerbated
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| 35
CORPORATE Why choose APED? The Africa Program for Enterprises Development (APED) is an initiative to impart basic training in business and
entrepreneurial
management
skills in various verticals and provide equipment to the learner even after the training is complete, so that the individual can self-employed and remain competitive
within
the
respective
business environment. The program is managed under v, which in its original form stands for Local Entrepreneur Skill Development and Educational Program. It commenced in 2010 as a skill centre project that emanated from publicprivate partnership under the patronage of the relevant ministry. Similar programs have been implemented for youth development in India and various African countries including Ghana, Senegal, Rwanda, Niger, Guinea, Burkina Faso, Cameroon.
feature of APED is that it deals directly in of equipment to them. The underlying objective of APED is to prepare the young generation for the realities and complexities
of
entrepreneurialism.
and the youth a platform that caters to
specialized
job-oriented
Technical education-driven and value-added training programs
•
Market-oriented learning modules
•
Apprentice-based training by experienced faculty with a pragmatic approach
•
Classes are conducted in environments similar to the working conditions in the industry
•
Latest equipment, methodologies and infrastructure are at the disposal of the students
•
Hands-on training allows practical exposure to the candidates that no theoretical concept can match
•
Training manuals in English are provided along with machines that are supplied and installed
•
Sessions to unleash individual’s potential to probe issues and hone creative talents
training
irrespective of their formal education, encompassing facets - from learner acquisition to business development for the prospective entrepreneurs. With precise resources, apt course curriculum and hands-on training equipment, we make the learners self-reliant, and equip them to face and change any odd challenges into survival conditions. We work in the equitable direction to bridge the widening fleabag between those who have access to opportunities and those who are increasingly being marginalized from the ‘new economy’ jobs. Last but not the least, we facilitate self-exploration by the apprentice of his/
with opportunities and new challenges.
her inner potential by devoting exclusive
Accordingly, they need to become more
life-skill sessions that include self-
dynamic, more innovative and even
evaluation exercises and group/industry
more skilful in order to successfully
interactions aimed at better equipping
navigate through challenges and meet
the trainees to face industry’s practical
these new opportunities. An important
aspects.
THE TIMES OF AFRICA
•
Through this program, we provide women
Today’s entrepreneurs are confronted
36 |
APED delivers training excellence by several distinctive
training and skilling people and provision
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CORPORATE What APED has accomplished: In GHANA: The skill development program initiated its specialized training in trade under the patronage of the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, Ghana. The program has been successfully revered across 170 Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) in Ghana.
In BURKINA FASO: Under the valuable guidance of H.E. Ambassador of Burkina Faso in India, Mr. Idriss Ouedraogo, Indocorp signed an agreement for the benefit of enterprises in Burkina Faso. Training in Sewing machines, Mobile repairing kits and Medical health kits.
In RWANDA: Indocorp signed an MoU for youth development in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Government of Rwanda, in the year 2013 for delivering training in Butter processing, Cheese processing, Electrical home appliance repairing and Irish potato processing.
In NIGER:
Indocorp signed an MoU for enterprise advancement with the Ministry of Training and
Employment, Niger in the year 2013 to start its operations in the country. As per the same, training was conducted in Mobile Phone Repairing and Tailoring
In GUINEA CONAKRY: Indocorp signed an MoU for youth employment in the year 2013 to start its operations in Guinea Conakry under the patronage of the Ministry of Youth Employment and Sports of the Republic of Guinea Conakry. This was done to provide training and skills development to youth for eliminating unemployment, developing the human resource capacity of the youth and women in Guinea Conakry.
In SENEGAL: Indocorp initiated its campaign for skill development program in Senegal, in partnership with the Ministry of Vocational Training in the year 2013 and successfully completed training with various agencies under the auspices of the ministry. This paved the pathway for many youth development agencies in Senegal.
In CAMEROON: Indocorp signed an MoU for enterprise development with the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises, Cameroon in 2013. This was followed by a convention that was signed with the Republic of Cameroon in 4 different regions to train 800, 000 people in various verticals.
In INDIA: Indocorp signed a consensus for this program with the Micro, Small and Medium enterprises, Government Development Institute (MSME -DI) in Haldwani, India to start its pilot project. As per the subject MOU, Mobile Phone Repairing training sessions were conducted in Haldwani. All the beneficiaries were trained successfully and a graduation ceremony was held for the same.
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THE TIMES OF AFRICA
| 37
WEBINAR
Digitalisation to transform agriculture in Africa and respond to COVID19 people
chains, in particular smallholders’ staple
technologies, we have to look to reality
attended the first of four webinars
Recently,
almost
500
crops, and creating digital channels that
too.” This includes tackling small-scale
organized by the FAO Investment Center
allow connections between the actors in
farmers across the continent’s relatively
and the African Development bank
the value-chain.
weak adoption and closing the digital
on Transforming agriculture in Africa through digitalisation. The participation speaks to the popularity of the topic and the relative facility and efficacy of getting many people together digitally to exchange information, perspectives and lectures on the advantages of digitalization. “New technology changed the globalized economy before the COVID-19 crisis and agrifood systems were part of the transition. This pattern has intensified with COVID-19, “says Mohamed Manssouri, Director of the FAO Investment Centre.
Digital technology will help to make the most of inputs and climate-intelligent
In particular among rural communities,
farming, enhance access to the market,
digital transformations in agriculture
and increase transparency, speed and
involve the “3 Cs” of cost, capability
the efficiency of transactions and
and contents. “We need to make sure
boost food safety and quality, as well as
that the costs aren’t a barrier and that
traceability to finance and livestock and
the content is appropriate, localized
crop insurance. Yet agriculture remains
and workable and small-scale farmers
one of the world ‘s least digitised
are able to embrace and use digital
industries. The spread of COVID-19 in
consultancy
Africa, as it does the rest of the planet,
items.”
has disturbed agrifood systems. Key supply chains have been cut off, markets closed and labor shortages have been
The webinars discuss rapid digital
reduced. Farmers neglect the seasons of
reactions to COVID-19 disruptions and
planting, while corporations face liquidity
look at what is required for a digital
restrictions. The demand for hotels ,
agriculture transition in the continent.
restaurants and catering has waned
“Efforts to make agri-food systems
and customer preference has moved
more
inclusive
to those with longer shelf lives from
and sustainable in the future must
highly pereced foods such as fruit and
be catalyzed on both the policies and
vegetables, meat and seafood. Digital
investment
technologies such as mobile payments
competitive,
fronts
more
for
digitisation,”
Manssouri says. The first webinar set the stage for national governments , the private
and e-commerce platforms may help to ease such disruptions, especially in the short term.
sector, farmers and organizations such
According to FAO Investment Officer
as FAO and African Development Bank.
Gerard Sylvester, the pandemic slowly
Dr Martin Fregene, Agricultural and Agro-
shifts from emergency response to
Industry Director, spoke of catching
recovery and resilience. “In rural areas,
the ‘wave of interest in the ‘leap frog’
financial inclusion is game change,”
of decades of limited investment in
he said. “While we are positive about
ICT, infrastructure and commode value
the possibilities provided with digital
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divide in gender.
and
other
information
Dr Ed Mabaya, Head of the Banking Directorate for Agri-Business, spoke in his lecture about developments in Africa, including population growth, the rising Middle class, a rising youth and evolving diets. The food market in Africa is predicted to be USD 1 trillion by 2030. “While Africa has yet to witness the green revolution in other parts of the world, we believe that the Bank is well placed to benefit from the digital revolution,” he said. “There can be a new green movement in Africa, addressing some of the challenges and weaknesses in the entire value chain, from product supply to the customer,” he said. He noted 365 ICT and digital solutions active in the agricultural sector in Africa since 2018 reaching some 32.7 million smallholders
(CTA,
2018)
including
leading mobile money networks like Kenya’s M-PESA. At Tokyo International
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| 41
WEBINAR Conference on Afro-growth in August
COVID-19 for the digital transformation
encourage more digital use, especially by
2019, the African Development Bank,
of African agriculture. This included
small-scale producers. Bundling digital
officially launched its Flagship in the
digital monitoring of participants in the
services,
field of digital agriculture, sees a unique
supply chain, mobile payment and e-
and open interoperability systems may
position as an enabling environment
commerce. Technology, including the
contribute to building financially viable
for making digital solutions accessible
use of social media, should be easy. In
supply capacity. Other models are being
across Africa through public-sector
the context of convergence, scalability
studied, such as business-to - business,
investment. The Bank is also focused
and viability, including data governance,
business-to-government and business-
on enhancing digital literacy, capacity
digital financial products, digital identity
to - consumer. Virtual integration of the
building and promotion of public-private
systems, e-contracts and e-extension
suppliers on the demand side may be
partnerships for all stakeholders in the
services, they also address the policies
necessary to create a critical mass and
ecosystem.
and regulations needed.
appropriate demand for multiple digital
The panelists described important and
Finally, they talked about business
promising investments during and after
models and collaborations that would
challenges
for
innovation
services.
Panellists Wuraola Jinadu, Business Development Manager, Vodacom Business, Nigeria
Benito Eliasi, Programme Officer for the Southern African Confederation of Agricultural Unions (SAC
Myriam Said, Digital Adviser, Office of the Prime Minister, Ethiopia
Chris Lukolyo, Digital Country Lead,UN Capital Development FUND, Uganda
Mao Yohannes, ICT Project Team, 80-28 Hotline, Agricultural Transformation Agency, Ethiopia
Benjamin Addom, Team Leader, ICT for Agriculture, CTA (provided closing remarks)
42 |
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www.thetimesofafrica.com
JOURNALIST OF AFRICA
Tribute to unconventional Journalist of Africa political publication in her native country. Anyanwu was arrested in 1995 for a failed coup d’etat against the Sani Abacha regime. She was awarded the
International
Women’s
Media
Foundation Courage in Journalism during her incarceration. She has also received the CPJ International Press Freedom Award and the Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize from UNESCO. Anyanwu was released from jail in 1998 and moved to Virginia where she wrote Image of journalist and senator,
Florida State University. After training,
“Days of Terror.” She launched a radio
Chris Anyanwu
she moved back to Nigeria and worked
station called Hot 98.3 FM in Abuja in
Photo Credit: NewsWireNGR
as a news anchor and reporter for the
2005. She ran as a candidate of the
Nigerian Television Authority and Imo
People’s Democratic Party to the Senate
Broadcasting Company. In 1985 she
to decide that she would make more
Chris Anyanwu: Chris Anyanwu: “Chris,”
became Imo State Commissioner of
waves as a politician than as a journalist.
66, Nigerian journalist, activist, writer and
Education, Youth, Sports, Culture and
Anyanwu has made seven motions as a
publisher. She obtained her Journalism
Social Welfare. After her appointment,
Senator, including a bill on Occupational
Bachelor from Missouri University and a
she became the editor-in-chief and
Health and Safety.
Master of Mass Communications from
publisher of The Sunday Magazine, a
Amal Habani Photo Credit: Barbara Diet
Amal Habani: Habani has no problem expressing her concern about the Sudanese society with the titles of journalist and activist. She has been detained, fired and discriminated against because she has decided to stand up to the plight of women in her home country. In 2008 she founded the NO Women’s Oppression Initiative, together with her colleagues. The voice of Habani is particularly relevant in view of the strict policies of Sudan against free speech. The nation ranks 174 out of 180 in the freedom of the media, according to Africa News. www.thetimesofafrica.com
THE TIMES OF AFRICA
| 43
FACE-TO-FACE
Theme: Wildlife and Nature in Africa- 2020 Situation animals. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the closure of many wildlife parks in many countries. With reduced numbers of tourists visiting wildlife parks, there are fewer vehicles driving around to deter poachers. Also, in many parts of Africa, the lack of tourism affects the Anti-Poaching
Units.
Anti-Poaching
Units are mostly funded by the “bed nights’ ‘ occupied by tourists in a safari lodge. No tourism, no “bed nights,” no Anti-Poaching Units protection on that reserve. So this is not good news for the wildlife that desperately needs protection. If an anti-poaching ranger prevents an attack on animals, it means those animals will not be killed and brought into the illegal wildlife trade. This pandemic has disrupted tourism revenue of many countries.
Q2.
Has there been an increase
in wildlife poaching due to global lockdowns?
A2. In fact, many of the threats facing biodiversity and protected areas have been exacerbated during and following the Covid-19 outbreak. The COVID-19
Interviewee: KAMGA Marc Anselme, Environmental Manager Amal Habani Interviewer: Atlanta Mahanta, Sr. Multimedia Journalist, THE TIMES OF AFRICA
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THE TIMES OF AFRICA
Q1. What impacts of COVID-19 on the conservation of threatened species have been observed?
pandemic has put most people on lockdown all over the world, and many are unemployed. When impoverished people cannot eat or pay bills, they frequently
A1.
The Covid19’s economic, social
turn to poach. They either consume
and health impacts have been globally
the bushmeat themselves or sell more
devastating to say the least. The
valuable wildlife on the illegal market
frustration conservationists have felt
and that is what is actually happening
over wildlife markets is now being felt
in Africa. So there is an increase in
across the world, leading the public to
poaching incidents since the beginning
demand change in the global trade of
of this pandemic.
www.thetimesofafrica.com
FACE-TO-FACE countries in the continent, with no
Q3.
How
indigenous
is
COVID-19
peoples
affecting
and
local
timeline in sight, Indigenous peoples who already face food insecurity, as a result of the loss of their traditional lands
communities?
and territories, confront even graver
A3.
It has been noticed that the
coronavirus
pandemic presents
a new threat to the health and survival of Indigenous peoples and local communities around the world. Indigenous peoples largely fall outside any formal social protection systems and few have access to medical and financial support in times of crisis. In Africa particularly, Indigenous peoples already experience a high degree of socio-economic marginalization and are at disproportionate risk in public health
challenges in access to food. With the loss of their traditional livelihoods, which are often land-based, many Indigenous peoples
who
occupations
work
in
and
traditional subsistence
economies or in the informal sector are negatively affected by the pandemic. The situation of indigenous women, who are often the main providers of food and nutrition to their families, is even critical.
vulnerable during this global pandemic.
ecosystem is naturally interconnected.
They have significantly higher rates of
In my own view ZOO culture is not
communicable and non-communicable
a
diseases than their non-indigenous
conservation. In fact, zoos can’t provide
counterparts, high mortality rates and
the required space to the animals. I will
lower life expectancies. The contributing
say those wild animals should not be held
factors that increase the potential
in captivity because we have no moral
for high mortality rates caused by
right as a species to let animals suffer
COVID-19 in indigenous communities
just because we are curious about them.
include mal – and undernutrition, poor
Captive breeding is not really effective,
access to sanitation, lack of clean
yet let’s recognize that, in a world beset
water, and inadequate medical services.
by climate change, habitat loss and
As lockdowns continue in numerous
soaring human numbers, zoos provide
www.thetimesofafrica.com
even
sustainable
solution
to
Q5.
How do we tackle the conflict
between human and wildlife?
A5. Ending the illegal wildlife trade can be a good step for our governments, but whether the illegal wildlife trade is reduced or not, rangers must always be able to protect wildlife. Rangers are the first line of defence against people who want to kill wildlife. More than ever, a new system of management and governance of wildlife is urgent in Africa; one that is able to respond to this key challenge. The effective
A4. The habitat of human, animals in the
becoming
species.
in a systematic and integrated way
Q4. Your opinion on ZOO culture?
more
emergencies,
protection for the world’s endangered
animal
integrated management of wildlife will permit the transformation of human lives and significantly reduce conflict. As a continent endowed and dependent on natural resources; sustainability for Africa should be oriented towards restoring landscapes and protecting biodiversity. Nothing short of a revolution in attitudes will suffice in solving the problem. Behavioural change, adopting a
conservation
lifestyle,
increased
investment in wildlife protection, political momentum, and concerted local action, are needed to conserve our threatened species.
THE TIMES OF AFRICA
| 45
FACE-TO-FACE
Theme: Sustainable Development in Africa world challenges. And why did the UN come up with this issue of sustainable development? The previous Millennium Development
Goals
(MDGs)
which
was adopted in 2000, was insisting on economic development so as to eradicate poverty and improve livelihood of
people.
It
emphasized
nations
and states to ensure that they take different initiatives such as increasing investment,
investing
in
industrial
development and other initiatives which will revamp their economies and improve lives. This agenda had great success as many countries increased production, international trade of local products, and improved other aspects of people’s life. The only challenge with MDGs was sustainability, due to the fact that strategies employed and resources used such as energy were not sustainable to the extent of creating a serious problem in the coming years. For instance, in fishing industries, use of small nets traps very small fishes which in turn, after some years, there will be shortage of fishes in different parts of the world.
Interviewee: Joseph Brighton Malekela UN Youth Champion of Sustainable Development Goals - SDGs and Eastern Africa Regional Director of Africa-Asia Youth Foundation - AAYFO Interviewer: Atlanta Mahanta, Sr. Multimedia Journalist, THE TIMES OF AFRICA
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THE TIMES OF AFRICA
Q1.
Also, use of non-renewable energy like What are some of the Challenges
to Sustainable Development in Africa?
A1.
petroleum in motor vehicles and coal in industries causes a serious challenge of
First,
let’s
understand
greenhouse
gasses
immersions
this
and destruction of our very valuable
concept of sustainable development.
ozone layer. So coming to the concept
This concept means having various
of sustainability, they meant that the
development initiatives in a country
development process should be handled
without compromising the ability of the
in a way which won’t compromise
future generation to get development.
the hope of the future generation. I
The Sustainable Development Goals
think all of these issues of resource,
(SDGS) Agenda is the commitment of
when we speak about sustainable
the United Nations adopted in 2015
development,
to ensure that, by 2030 we realize the
developing country, it doesn’t mean we
sustainable progress to 17 identified
just think of industrialization, it is more
for
instance,
as
www.thetimesofafrica.com
a
FACE-TO-FACE than upgrading technology and other
and cheap export and technology from
about the whole economy for the country.
facilities. In Africa, the major challenge
China, other countries like India also have
For the past 10 years, I think it’s best to
to sustainable development is energy.
business opportunities in Africa. But in
make sure that things seem to move
The accessibility of renewable and clean
this process, there should be a certain
once was typical to one another in terms
energy such as gas, wind energy, water-
percentage of local workers in Chinese-
of development. I don’t have specific
electricity is quite difficult compared to
financed projects who are learning how
data for each country that specifically
non-renewable energy such as fuel and
things are happening so that they won’t
is moving forward, but most of these
coal in industries. Another challenge is
be dependent forever.
countries are progressing to make sure that in terms of human development,
investment in youths. Although there has been drastic change, there should
Q3.
Is the whole continent equally
like in education, women empowerment,
be more investment and inclusion of
progressing or are only a few countries?
health sectors etc are improved. Some
youths in the development decision
I would like to highlight another point,
countries which have good and visionary
making process. Bringing youths on
if we take an example of South Africa,
leadership are becoming an example for
decision-making processes will ensure
which is more developed compared to
other countries in Africa. Countries like
that they understand what is going on,
other countries, how mainstream media
Kenya, Tanzania and Nigeria have good
what the development direction is taken
is presenting data more collectively and
leaders who are leading to have promising
by the country and what is supposed
generalising the continent. What about
progress of development. And I believe
to be done when they take over leading
other countries than S. Africa?
that if these countries will proceed to strong selfless leadership, we shall see
the countries. I understand there are
more development processes in Africa
different initiatives and approaches to
A3: So what do we know when we say
youth inclusion in African countries, but
progress? I think we are talking about
if we don’t have enough young people in
the whole development, and it will help
the Decision-Making we won’t be sure
each individual country. I mean, how
Q4. How do we improve the quality of
of the future. Other general problems
these countries are rich, they have good
growth and create jobs in Africa?
are network services, infrastructure and
leaders and financial support with urban
climatic conditions
planning projects. But how did the people
A4.
have the social contract and support the
everywhere; it is a world’s challenge.
local business and the trade between
Government
countries? So I think you are speaking
initiatives to create jobs apart from
Q2. What role does China play in Africa’s economic development?
and it will be a promising progress.
The problem of unemployment is can
create
different
A2. Well, as you know, China is one of the very powerful economies in the world, so most of African countries are financed by China in different development projects. Aspects of materials for constructions, technology and capital from China are very helpful to developing countries. However, I think this support should be for the purpose of stabilizing the African economy, getting experience in advanced technology from some genuine sources and developing local capacity. I believe that Africa is dependent on China in many sectors but also continues to learn on how China is doing. When our country depends on raw materials
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THE TIMES OF AFRICA
| 47
FACE-TO-FACE leadership and governance, especially
make students more capable. It should
country and you can’t see any reason not to finance it. But then they say, it depends to get support from the World Bank, the international donors, and sometimes, in the end, we fail to get it. So for me, I think
make them independent. Also, their
that the approach needs to be changed
proper management and transparency
competence, knowledge and education
towards developing projects, sustainable
and accountability to people on issues
that youths have obtained in informal
development and sustainable products.
of how to handle these funds. I think
education should be utilized to create
Leadership becomes flexible if you can
if we improve the issue of leadership,
jobs for themselves. In the private
mobilize effectively the citizens to feel
especially ethical leadership to erase
sector, employers are more than 60-
part of the sustainable project, then
corruption and the misuse of power.
70% in some countries compared to
you can mobilize local resources from
Emission of job profiles and works for
the government sector. The government
willing contributions, taxes and other
people, and also equally take the approach
should just supervise, creating an
local sources.
So, we’ll see how to
of creating sustainable products. It will be
enabling
reducing
innovate. I see a very convenient way
very promising. And lastly, but not least if
barriers and enacting favourable laws so
of bringing people closer to this project
we involve young people who will be the
that young people can get something
and feel that they are part of it. They can
new voice with different agenda and set
from themselves.
sometimes support the implementation,
new propaganda. So if we bring them in
and not only landing on the support
this development, they might succeed
Q5. Why the low returns on sustainable
from the outside, I mean, international
but if not, they will never know where
development investments in Africa? Should we rethink Africa’s sustainable development pathways?
funding. So for me, I think that will be
we fail. We must make sure that young
very important to initiate projects under
people are there for the implementation
our local capacity. That will be limited
of these sustainable projects. We will be
to promising simultaneous projects,
sure that the country will be moving and
which are very good. So there must be a
to be achieving sustainable goals.
the informal sector, which employs a lot of people, especially young people in Africa. The kind of education system we have should hone youth skills and
environment
A5.
by
Yes, we shall take chances and change for the better. We may have a very promising and sustainable project in the
48 |
THE TIMES OF AFRICA
on how we spent these funds that have been obtained from, for the development project, from different donors and outsiders. So it should be available to
system of the responsible management. I mean, there must be selfless and ethical
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FACE-TO-FACE
FACE-TO-FACE
Theme: Kho Kho potential in Ghana
players were not conversant with most of the rules. It was educational and fun. However, we hope to bounce back very soon as restrictions ease in my country to continue our piloting process and recruit players for training.
Q5. How you trained Kho-Kho Players. A5.
Pre COVID-19, We engage players
with the basic skills in the playing of the game, thus; touching, chasing, squatting and dodging. We want them to get conversant before adding the technical aspect of the game.
Q6.
Recently
you
attended
the
International Coaching Camp in India. What are your views?
A6.
The Coaching camp in India was
successful
despite
Covid-19,
the
experts of Kho-Kho from KKFI, AKKF, IKKF
Interviewee: Johnson Kwaku Gameli Kportufe(Ghana)
did a good job in training and teaching all
Interviewer: Ms.Kanika Soni, Featured Columnist
the necessary technicalities both theory and practical. Hospitality and the love
Q1. Q1.What is your opinion about Kho-
of the mentioned sports organization,
Kho?
we have been able to introduce Kho-Kho into many mainstream sports in most
A1.
Kho-Kho is an interesting and
schools in Ghana.
educational game. I personally can associate myself to the game because
Q3. Who is Man behind the development
of its similarities with one of our
of Kho Kho in Ghana?
Ghanaian indigenous games, anti-ekyire. Kho-Kho though technical is easy to play
A3.
when you become conversant with the
Ghana, however, I have an abled team
rules.
from the SportDrive organization working
I am the founder of Kho-Kho in
hand in hand with me.
Q2.
What are your strategies to make
Q4.
Kho Kho into the mainstream game?
How players are showing interest
in Kho-Kho?
A2.
Myself together with a sports is
A4. Pre COVID19, we had some piloting
developing strategies and policies for
sessions in about two schools where
its acceptance into National sports.
we formed two teams in as much as
organization
called
SportDrive
from the people of India were top notch. KKFI provided all the needful to make the camp a great success.
Q7.
Any Message to Kho-Kho lovers
across the world.
A7. Kho-Kho is an interesting game that has a mental and physical health benefit. An entertaining game which improves cognitive skills and physical fitness. I encourage all passive and active KhoKho lovers to join the train of our Kho community.
Q8.Any message to KKFI. A8. To KKFI, keep doing a great job for the Kho-Kho community.
However, through the instrumentalities www.thetimesofafrica.com 49 | THE TIMES OF AFRICA
www.thetimesofafrica.com THE TIMES OF AFRICA | 49
SPORTS
Africa: Surfing Olympic Gold Medal Hope! Most major international, regional
In addition to economic effects,
languages, and encouraged people
or national sports events have been
cancelations of games can have a major
to take five crucial steps to stop the
canceled or postponed to safeguard
effect on the social benefits of global
disease from spreading, based on hand
the health of the athletes and others
and regional sporting activities, which
washing and coughing. During this
involved: marathon, football, basketball,
can enhance social unity, contribute to
period, other international development
ice hockey, handball, rugby , cricket,
fans’ social and emotional enthusiasm,
sports and peace organisations, for
sailing, skiing, weightlifting, etc. The
and help them bond with athletes that
instance, have joined forces to support
Olympic and Paralympics, which will take
lead to increased physical activity.
one another in solidarity through regular
place in 2021, will now be postponed for
Sport has been a valuable instrument to
online community discussions to share
the first time in the history of modern
foster communication and build bridges
problems and challenges. Participants
games.
between communities and generations.
in these online dialogs have sought to
Through sport, different social groups
find creative approaches , for example
can play a more central role , particularly
by identifying ways in which sport
in divided societies, in social changes
organizations can react to problems
and development. Sport is used as an
faced by people who are disadvantaged
instrument in this context to create
and who usually take part in low-income
learning possibilities and often access
programs but are not able to respond to
marginalized or at-risk populations.
movement restrictions.
The sports industry has an estimated global value of US$ 756 billion per year. Consequently, in light of COVID-19 millions of jobs are at risk worldwide, and not only for professionals in the fields of sport but also in the retail and sports services industries, linked to leagues and events, including travel ,
Major sporting organizations have
COVID-19 closure has also had an
tourism, transport, catering and media
demonstrated their solidarity with their
impact on the sporting education
broadcasting. Professional athletes
efforts to reduce the virus spread.
sector , comprising a wide range of
also have a risk of losing professional
For starters, FIFA joined up with the
stakeholders, including ministries of
sponsors who can not support them as
World Health Organization (WHO). The
national and local authorities, public and
initially agreed while trying to keep their
FIFA launched a campaign to “Pass
private schools, sports and athletes,
skills at home and can also continue
the message to kick out coronavirus,�
NGO and business community, teachers
their training.
led by popular football players in 13
and scholars and coaches, parents and,
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www.thetimesofafrica.com THE TIMES OF AFRICA | 50
SPORTS above all, Although the current crisis
COVID-19, important issues will be
athletes, fans and sellers. Over the
affected this Community seriously, it
tackled in order to ensure the safety
medium term, initiatives to promote
can also play a key role in containing and
and well-being of sports events at all
participation in sporting organizations,
overcoming it and promote rights and
levels of the world. These will include
especially young athletes, may also be
values in times of social distance.
adapting events in the short run to
important in the face of the anticipated
ensure the safety of, among others,
global recession.
As the world begins to recover from
The sports reports of Olympics. nbc say Tahiti will host the 2024 Olympics in Paris for surfing. A proposed place on an island in French Polynesia about 9,800 miles from Paris is approved by the Executive Council of the International Olympic Board. In 1956, quarantine laws shifted the equestrian events from Melbourne and took place in Stockholm, some 9,700 miles from here five months earlier. In December 2019, the Managing Board of Paris 2024 approved the site – the village of Teahupo’o, in particular – but had to receive the final approval from the IOC. Africa offers the best surf spots in an unfinished circle. The best spot in the continent are Morroco’s Taghazout fishing village, Senegal’s Dakar waves, Kenya’s Diani and Ukundu reef breaks, Angola’s Cabo Ledo, Mozambique’s 2470km of pristine seashore, Namibia’s Skeleton Bay in winter, South Africa’s choices, Jeffery’s Bay, Kommetjie, Cape Town, Noordhoek, Cape Town, Durban, Hout Bay, Cape Town, Muizenberg. We can envision the potential of african surfers like Jordy Smith and Khadjou Sambe to participate in olympics.
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THE TIMES OF AFRICA
| 51
SPORTS
Jordy Smith: South African surfer Jordy Smith will start his booming career again as he continues to dream of winning the gold olympic Games and the championship title in the World Surf League. Today’s Smith is World No 3 after Italo Ferreira (No 1) and Gabriel Medina’s Brazilian pair.
Image of: Jordy Smith Photo Credit: Red Bull
Khadjou Sambe: Khadjou is a little mysterious about her life plans. Khadjou is the only surfer locally in Dakar and probably in the entire country who wants to encourage women, though it means to swim against current events, to follow her dreams. In Dakar’s fishing village Ngor, Khadjou Sambe lives in Senegal ‘s capital. Since she was born, she has been surrounded with water, but to be a woman in the Group of Ngor means to remain on the floor while men steer Senegalese fishing boats, canoes that lead to sea. In the densely populated village old traditions retain their strength, so the fixed gender norms divide communal life duties.
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THE TIMES OF AFRICA
Image of: Khadjou Sambe Photo Credit: Anne Wernikoff
www.thetimesofafrica.com
TRAVEL & EXPLORE
UNWTO: Future for Tourism in Africa The Global rebalance of Tourism is
The group’s current Chairman, Mr.
resilience. Participants strongly wished
led by the World Tourism Organization
Pololikashvili, was present at the 63rd
to prioritize the top five key areas of the
(UNWTO), where 140 participants from
CAF meeting and was represented by Dr.
Africa Agenda with a view to promoting a
30 countries attended the meeting,
Amani Abou-Zeid, its Commissioner for
swift and sustainable recovery. The main
including 24 tourist ministers. The
Infrastructure and Energy, who served as
priorities are:
members of the UNWTO Global Network
the Minister of Tourism and Arts, Zambia,
have been joined by representatives
and the African Union. All participants
from 10 foreign organizations.
welcomed recent initiatives designed to
Priorities to open up the tourism potential of Africa: In addition to discussing
COVID-19
‘s
immediate
challenge, discussions centered on the main UNWTO Africa agenda, a road map designed to lead the industry in sustainable growth through to 2030. These priorities include improving African tourism infrastructure, enhancing air connectivity, facilitating visas, ensuring tourist security, investing in developing
•
and efficient public-private partnerships;
expose African gastronomy and use it as a new market for sustainable tourism
•
and the job creation, announced by the Secretary-General, among which the Brand Africa marketing competition.
Promoting innovation and technology;
•
Facilitating visas and improving connectivity;
Prior to the meeting, UNWTO Member States participated in a web-based
Growth through investment
•
Promoting Brand Africa, and
survey inviting them to share their views
fostering more resilience,
on how to use the UNWTO Agenda for
including by improving tourist
Africa to speed up regeneration from
safety.
the COVID-19 pandemic and build future
human capital, and improving Africa ‘s reputation towards the rest of the world. UNWTO
Secretary-General
Zurab
Pololikashvili said: “Africa’s tourism potential is undeniable, as is the potential of tourism to drive inclusive development across the continent. The steady easing of travel restrictions, first within nations and then across international borders, will allow the many social and economic benefits of tourism to return. If tourism’s restart is managed in a responsible and coordinated manner, harnessing the power of innovation and entrepreneurship, then it can transform millions of lives and help protect and preserve Africa’s rich cultural and natural heritage.”
www.thetimesofafrica.com
THE TIMES OF AFRICA
| 53
TRAVEL & EXPLORE
Overall, the UNWTO Strategy aims to foster the digitalisation of tourism and create an Ecosystem of Enterprise and Innovation which maximizes the sector ‘s potential for economic growth , job creation and sustainable development. Six strategic projects by UNWTO, as follows: 1. UNWTO Innovation Network: As
start-ups, investors (business and
petitions. Furthermore, seminars
part of the Innovation, Digital
super business angels, venture
on relevant topics will be provided
Transformation and Investments
capital, etc.) and supporting
for Tourism Ministers. These
Department´s mission of fostering
business partners (accelerators,
events can be adapted to global,
synergies among key stakehold-
incubators, etc.) in order to boost
regional, local and even vertical
ers and promoting the exchange
innovation and entrepreneurship.
levels, like sport tourism.
of knowledge among actors and
This Network would facilitate col-
change-makers with the objective
laboration, inspiration and capacity
of contributing to the promotion
building on how to scale and go
of the United Nations Sustainable
global. Member States will actively
Development Goals, we aim to
be involved by launching innovation
make innovation a key pillar of
challenges.
the sustainable development of tourism. 2. The UNWTO Innovation Hubs
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3. UNWTO Tourism Tech Adventures: the first innovation forum dedicated to tourism that brings together
Network: will unify the leading
all the actors of the ecosystem to
innovation hubs worldwide into one
boost innovation, entrepreneur-
Network dedicated to connecting
ship and especially, investment in
and scaling up the innovation and
Tourism. The Tourism Tech Adven-
entrepreneurship ecosystems of
tures will include activities such as
UNWTO Member States by bringing
startup bootcamps, one-on-one
together the leading tourism stake-
networking sessions between
holders, including governments,
startups, corporations and inves-
academia, corporations, SMEs and
tors, hackathons and startup com-
THE TIMES OF AFRICA
4. Digital Network Platform: a digital platform of leading corporations, start-ups, investors and Academia. 5. Tourism Innovation Leaders Programme: a community of innovative, enterprising, socially minded leaders working for the sustainable development of tourism. As world class leaders, they will guide and inspire all the actors of the ecosystem by sharing knowledge and providing mentorship. 6. Innovation Trends and Guidelines: will help UNWTO Member States to develop strategic and innovative tourism products by providing understanding of current social trends and customer needs.
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TRAVEL & EXPLORE Projects in Africa 2020
During 2020, technical missions are planned to be undertaken in the following countries:
•
Tourism Marketing and
Algeria; Formulation of a Tourism Marketing and
Promotion Strategy;
Promotion Strategy
•
Crisis Communication Strategy;
Angola; Needs Assessment Mission regarding Tourism
•
Tourism Policy and Master Plan;
Chain Analysis
•
Tourism Value Chain Analysis;
Botswana; Formulation of National Tourism Strategy and
•
Human Resource Development Strategy;
•
Economic Diversification:
•
Development of Tourism Statistics and
Côte d’Ivoire; Formulation of a Human Resource
Tourism Satellite Account;
Development Strategy in the Tourism Sector
•
New System of Tourism Hotel Classification;
Democratic Republic of Congo; Formulation of the
•
Capacity-building for local government;
•
Tourism Development, Wildlife Conservation and Sustainable Livelihoods;
•
Tourism Law;
Policy and a Master Plan for Tourism Statistics, and Value
Master Plan Botswana; Formulation of a Sustainable Tourism Master Plan for Kasane/Kazungula
National Tourism Policy for the Democratic Republic of Congo Lesotho; Economic Diversification Support Project Malawi; Development of Tourism Statistics and Tourism Satellite Account
Inputs and data from unwto.org
According to the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, available data from destinations show a 22% decline in arrivals in the first three months of the year. After the lockdown in several countries and the introduction of travel restrictions and closure of national and airports limits, the number of arrivals decreased sharply in March by 57%. This means loss of 67 million international incoming countries and approximately $80 billion in income (tourism exports). While in relative and absolute respects Asia and the Pacific (-33 million arrivals) have the highest impact, the impact in Europe is, though a lower percentage, rather large (22 million). The outbreak and the insecurity continue to dominate the future prospects have been decreased several times over the year. Current scenarios indicate that arrivals can decrease by 58% to 78% per year. The containment speed and duration of travel restrictions and border interruptions are important. Three possible dates of gradual opening of international borders are used in the following scenarios for 2020. www.thetimesofafrica.com
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TRAVEL & EXPLORE Scenario 1
Scenario 2
Scenario 3
-58%
-70%
-78%
based on the gradual opening of international borders and easing of travel restrictions in early July
based on the gradual opening of international borders and easing of travel restrictions in early September
based on the gradual opening of international borders and easing of travel restrictions only in early December
Under these scenarios, the impact of the loss of demand in international travel could translate into: •
Loss of 850 million to 1.1 billion international tourists
•
Loss of US$910 billion to US$1.2 trillion in export revenues from tourism
•
100 to 120 million direct tourism jobs at risk
Inputs and data from unwto.org
Recovery in 2021 According to the UNWTO Panel of Experts study, domestic demand is expected to recover more quickly than international demand. By the end quarter of 2020, but mainly by 2021, the majority anticipate signs of recovery. Based on past crises, leisure travel is expected to recover faster than industry , particularly for family and friends. The estimates for international travel recovery in Africa and the Near East have become more positive, with most experts still planning to recover in 2020. Skillful and least likely, American experts believe in recovery by 2020, while Europe and Asia have a mixed view with half of the experts predicting recovery in this year.
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EN VOGUE
One of the most lucrative business: Cosmetics Industry The beauty industry in the Middle East and Africa is predicted to be about $27.1 billion in 2018, according to market research. Nigeria and Kenya are the second and third largest sub saharan countries, with Kenya ‘s market totalling more than 320 million dollars. As a result, for the next few years there will be so much room for growth in the market of African cosmetics, beauty and personal attention products. The outlook for African cosmetics and personal care is therefore very positive. Let ‘s look at the basic reasons why beauty and personal care items are so much needed in Africa. If you are like other people , you probably have for a very long time had the wrong notion of ‘cosmetics.’ Now, it’s time to remove it: Cosmetic products are essentially any material used to improve the human body ‘s appearance and smell. This includes a broad range of skin and body care items including daily bathing soaps and toothpaste and perfumes and make-up for designers. Any product that is used for washing, embellishing and supporting the human body is basically a cosmetic product. Cosmetics have become a very fundamental necessity in today’s world. Everybody, including the bad, will go ahead and develop their look , feel, and smell. In order to help us with our health, cosmetics have become important to our self-esteem and decide in large part how others perceive and influence us.
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EN VOGUE Now that the factors behind Africa ‘s enormous and increasing demand for cosmetic products have been studied, it is time to look at the main categories of the market and the products people spend on. The cosmetic industry can be divided into five main categories: the makeup industry or the personal care industry.
It’s not shocking that the best selling products in Africa for food are beauty and skin care products!
HAIR CARE Up to 20% of the cosmetic products sold on the market
It is only one part of the equation that modern Africans
are generally estimated to be haircare products. This
have an urgent need for beauty and personal care items.
category includes all products for cleaning and flattering
The current population for Africa is expected to rise by
hair for human beings – shampoos, pomade, pampering,
approximately one billion by 2050 to 2.3 million by 2050.
colouring, paints , coatings and hair styling products.
Only one thing can be said – more beauty and care products
Beauty shops, barbaries and women who use a wide range
demands!
of these products are the biggest donors in this category.
With more than half its one billion people below 20 age, Africa is home to the world ‘s youngest population. The African Development Bank identifies middle class as
Recent trends in mode have also increased men’s budget in this category, as dreadlocks, sporting waves and ‘african’ hairstyles become increasingly popular and require more
spending between 2 and 20 dollars per day. More than 300
hair care and attention.
million people are currently in this group on the continent. A
SKIN CARE
substantial majority of middle-class Africans are young and educated urban guests who are conscious of (and strongly
With several competing forms, products and brands
influenced by) modern clothes, fashion and western
the category of skin treatments is the largest and largest
cultures. Since many of them have paid jobs or own a small
segment on the cosmetic market. There are a wide range
business, they have more money available to spend. They
of local and foreign brands that release new and more
push demands for consumer products like beauty and skin-
appealing items annually, due to size and variety of different
care products across Africa because of their preferences
types of human skin – natural, dry, oily and sensitive skin.
and expectations for the ‘feel good’ element!
About 30% of all cosmetic products sold every year on
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EN VOGUE this market belong in the category of
products by delivering products that
and how quickly they are consumed, the
skin care, including body lotions, skin
help treat and restore bleached skin.
items here fall under the category Fast
moisturisers, cleansers, toners, antiacne products and anti-aging products.
MAKEUP
The increasing tendency for young
Makeup
African women and men to use skin lightening or ‘blinding products’ also boost the demand flow that makes the category of skin care products a multimillion - dollar company.
Moving Consumer Goods ( FMCG). This category contains bath soaps (liquids (consisting
of
various
items , particularly for use as “colours cosmetics” or as “decorative cosmetics,” in the female face, eyes, lips and nails). This category of items is so segmented in that several niches have numerous
and bars), toothpaste, shaving cream, de-pilating products for hair removal, deodorants,
anti-perspirants,
sun
screens, toilet paper, and many other bathroom pieces.
FRAGRANCES
Africans are among the highest users
special demands, including: lipsticks,
of skin bleach products, according to
clothing, bases, facial powder, blushing,
the World Health Organization reports:
masquerade, eyeliner, polishing nails and
cosmetics industry will sell in less
77 percent of females from Nigeria
makeup removers.
quantities, but it definitely gains most
regularly take these products, followed
PERSONAL CARE AND TOILETRIES
by 59 percent from togo; 35 percent from south Africa and 25 percent from Mali. Innovative businesses such
The products in this group are used
as Ghana’s Grace Amey-Obeng have
mostly for washing the body and
created successful enterprises in order
preserving personal hygiene, not for
to fight the negative impact of blanking
embellishing. Due to the high demand
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The
perfume
segment
of
the
in all types of products in this sector. ‘Fragrances’ include all the essential oils and compounds that give a good scent to the human body. Common fragrance classes in the market include – Perfumes, Eau de Toilette, Eau de Parfum, Cologne and aftershave.
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BON APPETIT
Nature heals almost everything: Traditional medicine of Africa most
they are too expensive or because there
most of these individuals, traditional
diversified therapeutic methods in
The
oldest
and
perhaps
are no providers of medical services, to
healers provide personal information,
Africa are traditional medicine. Africa is
access modern medical care. Secondly,
consultation, and care and knowledge
considered the birthplace of humanity
certain diseases like malaria or HIV /
of the world of their patients. In reality,
with a rich biodiversity and a diversity
AIDS, which have a disproportionate
Africa
of ways of healing distinguished by
influence in Africa over other areas
resources and is estimated to be able
ethnic variations. Traditional African
of the world, lack effective modern
to produce 40 to 45,000 plant species
medicine is holistic and includes the
medicinal care.
with potential to grow, 5,000 of which
body and spirit in its different ways. The traditional healer usually diagnoses and treats the psychological basis of diseases , particularly medicinal plants for treating symptoms, before prescribing medication. Two key factors can explain the continued interest in traditional medicine in the African
The use of medicinal plants is the most common herbal medicine in general use in the African continent. Medicinal plants in many parts of Africa are the most available community health services. They are also the most popular alternative for patients. For
has
enormous
biodiversity
are used for medicinal purposes. This is not surprising, since Africa is in the Tropical and Subtropical climates and it is well known that the plants are the natural survivor of essential secondary metabolites through evolution. Due to its Tropical conditions, Africa has an unequal
health system. The first is insufficient access to allopathic medicines and west
treatments
whereby
most
Africans are unable, either because
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BON APPETIT proportion of strong tropically-sunlight
However, it is imperative to record
list by 82 percent, and it is worthwhile.
ultraviolet rays and numerous pathogenic
the drug uses of African plants and
The paradox, however, is that the
microbes, including several species of
traditional systems due to the swift
African continent has commercialised
bacteria , fungi and viruses, indicating
loss of natural habitats for some of
few beverages worldwide , despite its
that chemical prevention substances
the plants as a result of anthropogenic
immense capacity and diversity.
in Africa can accumulate in excess
activities and also because important
of plants in the northern hemisphere.
traditional
information
is
Abegaz et al. interestingly noted that
diminished.
The
continent,
only the African species Dorstenia
however, is also known for having one of
mannii Hook.f, which was a permanent
the world’ s largest deforestation rates
herb growing in Central African tropical
with an estimated loss by deforestation
wilderness, had more biological activity
of 1 percent a year, and the highest
for all species studied in the Dorestenia
endemic rate is also important, with
(Moraceae) than related species.
the Republic of Madagascar toping the
African
being
The scientific literature has witnessed a rising number of publications designed to test the effectiveness of African medicinal plants which are expected to play a significant role in preserving the health and introducing new treatments. However, the detailed update of the promising medicinal plants from the continent of Africa remains precious.
Data reference: Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Mauritius
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BON APPETIT Acacia senegal, also known as gum Arabic, is native to semidesert and drier regions of sub-Saharan Africa, but widespread from Southern to Northern Africa. It is used as a medicinal plant in parts of Northern Nigeria, West Africa, North Africa, and other parts of the world. The use of gum arabic (or gum acacia), which is derived from an exudate from the bark, dates from the first Egyptian Dynasty
Acacia senegal (L.) Willd. (Leguminosae: Mimosoideae)— Gum Arabic
(3400 B.C.). It was used in the production of ink, which was made from a mixture of carbon, gum, and water. Inscriptions from the 18th Dynasty refer to this gum as “komi” or “komme.” Gum arabic has been used for at least 4,000 years by local people for the preparation of food, in human and veterinary medicine, in crafts, and as a cosmetic. The gum of A. senegal has been used medicinally for centuries, and various parts of the plant are used to treat infections such as bleeding, bronchitis, diarrhea, gonorrhea, leprosy, typhoid fever, and upper respiratory tract infections. African herbalists use gum acacia to bind pills and to stabilize emulsions. It is also used in aromatherapy for applying essential oils.
Aloe ferox is native to South Africa and Lesotho and is considered to be the most common Aloe species in South Africa. A. ferox has been used since time immemorial and has a well-documented history of use as an alternative medicine and is one of the few plants depicted in San rock paintings. The bitter latex, known as Cape aloe, is used as laxative medicine in Africa and Europe and is considered to have bitter tonic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer proper-
Aloe ferox Mill. (Xanthorrhoeaceae)— Bitter Aloe or Cape Aloe
ties. The use of A. ferox as a multipurpose traditional medicine has been translated into several commercial applications and it is a highly valued plant in the pharmaceutical, natural health, food, and cosmetic industries. A. ferox is considered South Africa’s main wild harvested commercially traded species. The finished product obtained from aloe tapping, aloe bitters, has remained a key South African export product since 1761 when it was first exported to Europe. The aloe tapping industry is the livelihood of many rural communities and formalization of the industry in the form of establishment of cooperatives and trade agreements. It has been suggested that its trade may have an extensive poverty alleviation effect in Africa. Artemisia herba-alba is commonly known as wormwood or desert wormwood (known in Arabic as shih, and as Armoise blanche in French). It is a greyish strongly aromatic perennial dwarf shrub native to Northern Africa, Arabian Peninsula, and Western Asia. A. herba-alba has been used in folk medicine by many cultures since
Artemisia herba-alba Asso (Med)—Asteraceae— Wormwood
ancient times. In Moroccan folk medicine, it is used to treat arterial hypertension and diabetes and in Tunisia, it is used to treat diabetes, bronchitis, diarrhea, hypertension, and neuralgias. Herbal tea from A. herba-alba has been used as analgesic, antibacterial, antispasmodic, and hemostatic agents in folk medicines. During an ethnopharmacological survey carried out among the Bedouins of the Negev desert, it was found that A. herba-alba was used to mitigate stomach disorders. This plant is also suggested to be important as a fodder for sheep and for livestock in the plateau regions of Algeria where it grows abundantly. It has also been reported that Ascaridae from hogs and ground worms were killed by the oil of the Libyan A. herba-alba in a short time.
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BON APPETIT
BON APPETIT Aspalathus linearis, an endemic South African fynbos species, is cultivated to produce the well-known herbal tea, also commonly known as rooibos. Its caffeine-free and comparatively low tannin status, combined with its potential health-promoting properties, most notably antioxidant activity, has contributed
Aspalathus linearis (Brum.f.) R. Dahlg. (Fabaceae)— Rooibos
to its popularity and consumer acceptance globally. The utilization of rooibos has also moved beyond herbal tea to intermediate value-added products such as extracts for the beverage, food, nutraceuticals and cosmetic markets. Rooibos is used traditionally throughout Africa in numerous ways. It has been used as a refreshment drink and as a healthy tea beverage. It was only after the discovery that an infusion of rooibos, when administered to her colicky baby, cured the chronic restlessness, vomiting, and stomach cramps that rooibos became well known as a “healthy” beverage, leading to a broader consumer base. Many babies since then have been nurtured with rooibos—either added to their milk or given as a weak brew.
Centella asiatica is a medicinal plant that has been used since prehistoric times. It has a pan-tropical distribution and is used in many healing cultures, including Ayurvedic medicine, Chinese traditional medicine, Kampo (Japanese traditional medicine), and African traditional medicine. To date, it continues to be used within
Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. (Apiaceae)— Centella
the structure of folk medicine and is increasingly being located at the interface between traditional and modern scientifically oriented medicine. Traditionally, C. asiatica is used mainly for wound healing, burns, ulcers, leprosy, tuberculosis, lupus, skin diseases, eye diseases, fever, inflammation, asthma, hypertension, rheumatism, syphilis, epilepsy, diarrhea, and mental illness and is also eaten as a vegetable or used as a spice. In Mauritius, the application of C. asiatica in the treatment of leprosy was reported for the first time in 1852 while the clinical use of C. asiatica, as a therapeutic agent suitable for the treatment of leprous lesions, has been documented since 1887.
Catharanthus roseus (Madagascar periwinkle) is a well-known medicinal plant that has its root from the African continent. The interest in this species arises from its therapeutic role, as it is the source of the anticancer alkaloids vincristine and
Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don (Apocynaceae)— Madagascan Periwinkle
vinblastine, whose complexity renders them impossible to be synthesized in the laboratory; the leaves of this species are still, today, the only source. C. roseus originates from Madagascar but now has a wide distribution throughout the tropics, and the story on the traditional utilisation of this plant can be retraced to Madagascar where healers have been using it extensively to treat panoply of ailments. It is commonly used in traditional medicine as a bitter tonic, galactogogue, and emetic. Application for treatment of rheumatism, skin disorders, and venereal diseases has also been reported.
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BON APPETIT
BON APPETIT
Cyclopia genistoides is an indigenous herbal tea to South Africa and considered as a health food. Traditionally, the leafy shoots and flowers were fermented and dried to prepare tea. It has also been used since early times for its direct positive
Cyclopia genistoides (L.) Vent. (Fabaceae)— Honeybush
effects on the urinary system and is valued as a stomachic that aids weak digestion without affecting the heart. It is a drink that is mainly used as a tea substitute because it contains no harmful substances such as caffeine. It is one of the few indigenous South African plants that made the transition from the wild to a commercial product during the past 100 years. Research activities during the past 20 years have been geared towards propagation, production, genetic improvement, processing, composition, and the potential for value adding.
Harpagophytum procumbens is native to the red sand areas in the Transvaal of South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia. It has spread throughout the Kalahari and Savannah desert regions. The indigenous San and Khoi peoples of Southern Africa have used Devil’s Claw medicinally for centuries, if not millennia. Harpagophytum procumbens has an ancient history of multiple indigenous uses and is one of the most highly commercialized indigenous traditional medicines from Africa, with bulk exports mainly to Europe where it is made into a large number of health prod-
Harpagophytum procumbens (Burch.) DC. (Pedaliaceae)— Devil’s Claw
ucts such as teas, tablets, capsules, and topical gels and patches. Traditional uses recorded include allergies, analgesia, anorexia, antiarrhythmic, antidiabetic, antiphlogistic, antipyretic, appetite stimulant, arteriosclerosis, bitter tonic, blood diseases, boils (topical), childbirth difficulties, choleretic, diuretic, climacteric (change of life) problems, dysmenorrhea, dyspepsia, edema, fever, fibromyalgia, fibrositis, gastrointestinal disorders, headache, heartburn, indigestion, liver and gallbladder tonic, malaria, migraines, myalgia, neuralgia, nicotine poisoning, sedative, skin cancer (topical), skin ulcers (topical), sores (topical), tendonitis, urinary tract infections, and vulnerary for skin injuries. The major clinical uses for Devil’s claw are as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic in joint diseases, back pain, and headache. Evidence from scientific studies in animals and humans has resulted in widespread use of standardized Devil’s claw as a mild analgesic for joint pain in Europe.
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BRAINSTORM
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BRAINSTORM
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BRAINSTORM
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