April 2017 edition

ISSN:1571-3466

ISSN:1571-3466

Motto: Actuated towards Africa’s advancement

Volume 18. NO. 160 April 2017

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First complete African magazine published in The Netherlands since August 1999

Evelyn Amo: A gospel singer with a message of Salvation Ahmad Ahmad is New CAF President after 29 years www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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HISTORY

The Voice Magazine Volume 18. No 160 April 2017 Edition

Content/Masthead -8-9 Editorial: Dutch elections: True winners are the people – 13 Feedback: Pages for your letters & opinions - 14-15 Evelyn Amo: I’m trusting God to write more songs to inspire and encourage people to worship and serve God – 18-20 South Africa to appear before ICC – 24 & 25 - South Africa launches hate crime unit with Nigeria Don Ceder expresses appreciation to voters as he moves on - 32 South Sudan’s government-made famine - 33 Support our projects to give clean water to Kenyan communities say Marion van de Voort – 40 & 41 New Health care initiative for villages in Togo - 45 Dutch elections: The people have spoken – 46 - OPINION: Stop food aid to Africa - You are wasting your money UN: World facing greatest humanitarian crisis since 1945 - 47 Advertorial: UAAF holds events for 2017 - 48 Sunny Ofehe celebrates late Mom with family & friends – 49-51 Opening of Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Complex to mark his 80th birthday in Ogun State – 54 & 55 Invest in Real Estate in Nigeria – 56-58 Mrs. Aisha Buhari’s Health Screening Exercises for underserved Nigerians - 59 Ahmad replaces Issa Hayatou as African football chief after 29 years - 60 Liverpool defender Joel Matip reflects on not playing for Cameroon at last Nations cup final - 61

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Major Gen. Frank Osokogu (rtd) to receive his award in Nigeria

Major Gen. Frank Osokogu GSS, DSS, PSC, FWC, MSU, MNIM, (rtd) is to receive his African Distinguished Career Award for 2016 in Lagos, Nigeria according to the chairman of the Award committee in the Netherlands, Pastor Elvis Iruh.

It will be recalled that Major General Osokogu was among outstanding Africans honoured at last year’s award ceremony on 21st October 2016 at Royal Party & Events Center in Almere, The Netherlands.

Chief Osokogu, a traditional chieftaincy title holder in Owa Kingdom in his acceptance of the award with humility and thankfulness to God expressed his appreciate to the organizing committee of the award for recognizing him and he accepted the award.

Unfortunately he could not physically attend the award ceremony because of previous engagement that clashed with the date of the award. He has however been looking forward to receiving his award.

This award will be presented to him on behalf of The Voice Achievers Award for 2016 by Mr. Dennis Eboka, the Executive Director of Globalwealth Limited with headquarters in Amsterdam and other parts of Africa.

The photos of the award presentation should be expected in the next issue of our magazine.

Congratulations to Major General Frank Osokogu (Rtd).

ABOUT US The Voice magazine

The Team

The Voice magazine is editorially independent although we enjoys the support of our readers, subscribers, advertisers, non-­ governmental organizations and in­dividuals of like minds; however the magazine publishers are in no way af­ filiated to any of these bodies or to any other ­publishing institution or political interest or group.

The Voice magazine strives to foster awareness among the African audience and bridge the widening gap between Africans and the rest of the world in news gathering and dissemination.

The Voice is published digitally online except on demand, we print hard copy..

If you wan to receive a copy, send us your email address.

On the team are Elvis Iruh, E ­ dward Ogbee, Sandra Iruh-Monsels & Henry Oduenyi supported by an editorial board.

READ THE VOICE ON LINE AT www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com www.thenigerianvoice.com Registration NO: (Kvk. Nr. 34.110.928) ISSN: 1571-3466 Stichting Paddi Europa Account No: NL29SNSB0908374372(SNS Bank) IBAN NO: NL29SNSB0908374372 Swift Code: SNSBNL2A Graphic Designers George Adegite David Banjoko Wil Smile Special Senior Adviser Engr. Barry Igbeare Advert Executive Faith Ehanire-Popken Fehanire4607@gmail.com

Publisher: Stichting Paddi E ­ uropa Editor-in-Chief Pastor Elvis Ndubuisi Iruh elvisiruh@thevoicenewsmagazine.com Managing Editor Henry D. Oduenyi (Nigeria O ­ ffice) henry@thevoicenewsmagazine.com Contributing Editor Edward Idahosa Ogbee apexbest2000@yahoo.co.uk Associate Editor Lucky Osahon (London, UK) hlosahon@hotmail.com Associate Editor Etim Thompson London, United Kingdom royalthompson@yahoo.com Project Coordinator Ifeyinwa Ezeagabu i.ezeagabu@thevoicenewsmagazine.com Project Editor (Nigeria) Chiedu Harris Ify harrisbok4real@gmail.com BUREAU CHIEFS Gbenga T. Okunlola (London) teejayok@gmail.com Joel Savage (Belgium) juskosave@yahoo.com Femi Ikutiyinu (London) afpaprint2000@yahoo.com Collaboration with National Infinity magazine, Lagos

CORRESPONDENTS ABROAD Nicholas Noghayin Ehioghiren (Spain) nicholasmicnita@yahoo.com Barrister Eze Eluchie (Nigeria) paddingr@yahoo.com Kehinde Aig-Imoru (Nigeria) aigimoru@yahoo.com Tammy Abusi (Port-Harcourt) t.abusi@thevoicenewsmagazine.com Eubaldus Enahoro enabadus2000@yahoo.com Principal Photo Editor: Azeez Badris fatim_26@hotmail.com PA to Publisher Lilian Akintokun (Mrs) raven_lilian@yahoo.com MEDIA CONSULTANTS Duncan Spier Jonathan Mgbejume Bernd Wandkowski Mildred Kleinbussink Adeleke Ogunkoya You can as well contact our Office Address: Stichting Paddi Europa Inz The Voice Jeroen Boschplantsoen 82 1318 HH Almere The Netherlands Land Line: +3136-8801341 Tel.: +31 (0)6-48519292 Mobile: +31 (0)6-84999548 E-mail: info@thevoicenewsmagazine.com

SUBMISSIONS: Articles and photographs for publication are welcome but the publisher while exercising all reasonable c­ aution cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage. Please ensure that all materials are sent by e-mail to our official email. For other inquiries, e-mail us as well at: info@thevoicenewsmagazine.com

OUR MISSION STATEMENT

The Voice magazine is published in the Netherlands by Stichting Paddi Europa and it is p ­ ublished online from 2017 around the world. It is registered at the Chamber of Commerce Amsterdam. The Voice aim to serve as a vital link among African readers in the Diaspora and we ­provide ­objective information and organizes opinion exchange among African people both in the ­continent and abroad. Thus it strives to foster and enhance complete understanding of ­developing ­countries problems and bring information to help address those issues. TV

Volume 18

NO 160

April 2017 www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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Victory Outreach is a Pentecostal Church, Bible based believing people in the trinity of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

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Which activities we organize? Or would you like to hear testimonies about how we follow God? One thing is certain, we would like to get to know you and therefore you are more than welcome to visit one of our services. You can visit us every day of the week.

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EDITORIAL

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Dutch elections: True winners are the people

ince we started our publication, we have keenly polls once again failed to followed Dutch politics and how it plays out at every capture the real intent of election. It is very interesting and something other the public. The controversy developing countries should take a look at. How democracy and conflict and outburst of is practiced in this small country of about 18 million people. Turkey President against Its political arrangement does not make it possible to have the Netherlands that many one party majority system and dominance. This is a plus feared will drastically for democracy, so at any given election, the leading party is affects the results of the obliged to work together with smaller parties for the common election in favour of good of the entire population. Power sharing arrangements Wilders did not have any Pastor Elvis Iruh are reached, careful selection of ministers to oversee various significant effect rather the Editor-in-Chief functional people chose departments of to stay open, government. progressive minded and remain a country Never forget of inclusiveness. A victory for democracy. even before a With these type of result, it keeps all the government political parties on their toes, majority will is formed, have a share and a say in the affairs of the the structural country unlike in many African democracy institutions of where one party becomes a dominant force government and care less of what happens to those who remain strong did not vote for them. This political simple and effective. arrangement is more open, organized and The outcome of transparent. We visited one of the polling an election does stations, the results are manually counted Prime Minister Mark Rutte not affect the there and then and result sent into a central running of the data base; within two hours after the country. A system we have recommended for Africa to come, study, copy and if possible implement to its totality. It starts with a decisive population who decides on the shape of their country and the direction it would take after each election campaign. For this election, not less than 17 political parties to contest for 150 seats of Dutch lower House of parliament.

The party with highest winning seats has the better chance to form a coalition government. The remaining parties also joined the opposition alliance which makes for stronger parliamentary checks and balances. Before this election, Geert Wilders: Second at the polls there were fears and anxiety after the British referendum and results of Trump victory in United States of America. The extreme right politician; Geert Wilders was leading in all elections closed, the results were ready. Voters receive their the opinion polls before the elections, he won 20 seats, still voting cards by post three weeks before the elections; with a considerable number and an increase from his last outing your passport or accepted identification document, you go of 15 seats. However, VVD party, the ruling party won 33 to the polling station nearest to your home or work place; seats losing 8 seats from the 41 seats it had in the previous it takes less than 10 minutes to exercise your franchise and election but so far, he leads and the first option is for Mark just go home and wait for the result. We wonder why in Rutte to form a government with other parties but if he fails, many developing countries organizing an election is like the second option will be to return to the polls, but that is preparing for a war. We are proud of the Dutch people and very unlikely because he has several possibilities. PVV of their reliance to keep and make their democracy work. Long Wilders lost in its bid to become the biggest party to form live the Kingdom of The Netherlands. an alternative government. As the results were released, there was a soft ease or relief over the country as media www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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FEEDBACK

Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, Nigeria’s Vice President rarely seen in the two years since Buhari, 74, was speaks on his acting capacity….. elected.

Civil servants say they are handling heftier When protesters marched on Nigeria‘s workloads, while investors are praising a new, presidential villa earlier last month to complain long-needed foreign exchange policy. Meanwhile, about a biting recession, baton-wielding diplomats say Osinbajo’s inner circle is gaining policemen did not repel them, the usual fate influence inside the presidency. for anyone arriving uninvited at the gate of the To be sure, Osinbajo has made clear his loyalty country’s power center. lies with Buhari, a retired general who has Instead, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who is struggled to define a clear strategy to deal with standing in for the country’s sick leader, sent a Nigeria’s slide into recession and stands accused vehicle to ferry the protest leaders to his office, by opponents of inaction. where they complained about widespread But the 59-year-old lawyer is getting work corruption. done. He has relaxed visa rules to lure foreign In a frank admission, Osinbajo acknowledged the investors — a plan drawn up by Buhari but which government had failed to make as much progress like others got stuck in his chief of staff’s office, fighting graft as it had hoped. according to diplomats.

Officials in the Aso Rock presidential complex in “We hear you loud and clear,” he told the Abuja have seen their working hours extended to protesters.

7 p.m. when Osinbajo leaves, or later. Buhari and his aides typically close shop at 4 p.m., officials President Muhammadu Buhari has been in said.

London for six weeks on medical leave, raising “This man is a workaholic,” one presidency questions over his capacity to govern Africa’s insider said. “I wonder whether he rests at all largest economy. because he even shifts some of the meetings to In his absence, diplomats and business leaders his official residence.” say the presidency has acted with an energy

Buhari’s Government of No Substance and Propaganda.

President M. Buhari

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n trying to verify the accuracy of the odd appointment letter I received, I discovered that President Buhari actually has 9, not 6, media aides, all of whom also have a retinue of personal aides.

The presidential media aides are Femi Adesina (Special Adviser, Media & Publicity); Garba Shehu (Senior Special Assistant, Media & Publicity); Tolu Ogunlesi (Special Assistant, Digital & New Media); Lauretta Onochie (Personal Assistant, Social Media); Bashir Ahmad (Personal Assistant, New media); Sha’aban Sharada (Personal Assistant, Broadcast Media); Naziru Muhammed (Personal Assistant, TV Documentary); Sunday Aghaeze (Personal Assistant, Photography); and Bayo Omoboriowo (Personal Assistant/ President’s Photographer).

In addition, the president has about 40 paid journalists, bloggers, media analysts, commentators (whose names I have but will leave out for now), working under the Buhari Media Centre (BMC) in Utako, Abuja. The BMC is a well-furnished one-storey building with expansive premises. It has security guards, clerks, and cashiers. The 14

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team members are paid a monthly allowance of between N200, 000 and N250, 000. They are mandated to react to all media contents critical of the president, write favorable news items for the president, and attack/demonize/smear people critical of the president. They also work with government agencies such as the EFCC to push narratives to deflect attention from the ineptitude of the government.

They work behind the scenes and use pen names in extended articles, and pseudonyms on social media. Almost all the members of the APC Presidential Campaign Media Directorate operate from the BMC, with the exception of those with appointments. And this excludes Lai Mohammad’s well-oiled lie squad.

When a government takes propaganda and mind-management this seriously, you know it’s not ready to change. Good deeds are their own PR. It is when people determine that they don’t want to do good deeds that they resort to mindless propaganda. If only they invested and expended as much energy in managing the economy as they do in propaganda, we won’t be where we are. I have more, but I will stop here for now.

By the way, that appointment letter I have is authentic.

By Prof. Farooq Kperogi Atlanta, USA.

Feedback (Page for your letters) Dear Editor,

CONGRATS TO THE DUTCH.

To my friends in The Netherlands, I say gefeliciteerd met uw verkiezing. You withstood the provocations of Tayyip Erdogan geared towards stoking the embers of hate and malice and the avalanche of extremist tribalism/nationalism that seemed to be enveloping the Western world to renew hope that common sense can still thrive in a democracy.

Barrister Eze Eluchie Lagos, Nigeria.

****************** Editor’s Reply

Thank you so much for your best wishes, the Netherlands remain an open liberal society where law abiding citizens and hard working immigrants are welcome. It is a place to express yourself as far as you have reason to be in the country legally.

The Voice magazine goes digital online Since the beginning of the New Year (2017). ‘You can read the full magazine via digital edition. The Voice magazine is available now and also on our website at www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com. If you want to receive a digital copy from now on, kindly send us an email at info@ thevoicenewsmagazine.com Over 10,000 people get the magazine within the day, it is fast for your business promotion, so contact us for details and it is much cheaper. Better way of serving you now.

Thank you for your patronage, help spread it to your contacts.

Editor

Annual African Business Day event at Erasmus University, Rotterdam.

On the 27th of May 2017, the Association of Students of African Heritage (ASAH) is hosting its annual African Business Day event at Erasmus University, Rotterdam.

The 2016 event was hosted by BBC Africa presenter, Lerato Mbele and guest speakers included among others, Beasts of No Nation author Uzodinma Iweala and Google Sub-Saharan Africa digital marketing advisor, Gbenga Ajayi.

This year’s programme under the innovation theme will include student workshops, meet and greet sessions, African art exhibition, entertainment and many more. Guest speakers include, among others, Ghanaian CEO of Interpay, Saqib Nazir.

“As the world is waking up to the injurious phenomenon of “Fake News”, now more than ever investors are looking at Africa differently bypassing the calamitous media narratives of the past” explained Charlotte Bedet, a South African born (ABD) PR & Brand Strategist.

“African Business Day provides a yearly opportunity for companies, students and Africa enthusiasts to gain insights in to the “real stories” pertaining to conducting business within the continent”.

About: Founded in 2015, ASAH is the largest Africa-focused study association in the Netherlands with a diversified membership of over 600.

The association primary goal (s) is to build connections and to enhance business opportunities on the African continent.

The advisory board consists among others, former Dutch Prime Minister, Jan Peter Balkenende and Rotterdam Mayor, Ahmed Aboutaleb.

Former and current sponsors include McKinsey & Company, Turkish Airlines and Standard Bank.

Contact: Charlotte Bedet PR, Brand Strategist (ABD) Tel: +31 6 10104495; email: cbedet@hotmail.com www.asah-eur.nl

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Gospel music is absolutely profita In a season where there’s a deeper yearning for true worship, Evelyn Amo stands out as one who writes songs that brings hope, restoration and healing to anyone that listens. Evelyn Amo is not only a gifted songwriter but she is also an anointed worshiper, who is graced with leading congregations into God’s presence every time she ministers in songs.

The Ghanaian born Evelyn moved to Holland at the age of 8. Her music is reminiscent of the different cultures she grew up in.

When you hear Evelyn sings, you will definitely hear the South African flavour and her Ghanaian Methodist roots.

In 2003, she recorded her first album, “A Step to Tell”. This was a duet project with Kweku Amonoo Neizer (Now Apostle Neizer).

The album featured the song “Step by Step” which was a huge success. This took her to nations to minister in songs. Since then she has continued to improve her gospel music career and in 2006, it was a busy year for Evelyn. She launched her second album titled “Step by Step” a re-release of the hit song on her new album. Evelyn Amo combined all her best songs from her previous two albums into “The Best of Evelyn Amo”.

She launched her third album “Praise & Thank Him”. One of the songs on this album is the duet song “My Redeemer Lives” with Nic Vani, who plays Simba in The Lion King musical, London.

Evelyn launched her CD, “Great Deliverer”. This CD is full with songs of deliverance that can help people to navigate through the storms of life. The album is a testimony of God’s delivering power in her life. Currently she is performing and holding concerts to promote the album, and she has been on tour to Ghana and back and planning others within The Netherlands.

In December 2016, Evelyn Amo also released a single titled “You Are Holy.” Evelyn Amo is very grateful for how far she has come and believes God has greater things in store. Her music is receiving great followership on social media. She is married to her beloved husband, Pastor Berima Amo and with his love and experience in music, the combination is becoming unbeaten able in the gospel music. He is standing with her all the way.

In this special interview with her, she spoke about herself and her music. Enjoy this interview please…….............

TV: Kindly introduce yourself to our readers?

Evelyn Amo: My name is Evelyn Amo. I am a gospel singer/songwriter resident in Amsterdam in the Netherlands. I am married to Berima Amo, a minister of the gospel and the mother of 4 children.

TV: Tell us more about your Christian background?

Evelyn Amo: I was born into a Christian home and grew up in the church. Understanding that being part of a Christian home does not make you being born again or a child of God. I had to make a conscious decision to give my life to Jesus Christ. When I was 14 years old, I accepted Jesus Christ in my life and began serving him in the church. I am still serving him today and forever.

TV: How did you come into gospel music?

Evelyn Amo: I was always performing on stage as a child. At school, I was taking part in musicals, dancing competitions and all sorts of talent shows. I always was on stage and truly loved it. My teachers and schoolmates used to say that I should do something with my performing abilities. But for me, it was something that was a part of me and so I didn’t think of it as anything special. Later on, I decided my genre would be gospel music because I love Jesus. His good news transformed and still is transforming my life. There was/is no better message than that. Any other message I may have to share in my music I consider important but inferior to the message of the cross! I joined the church choir and started singing in my teens. I already was writing gospel songs from the age of 11. As I grew in the choir, I became the worship leader of the church at the age of 17. I started also singing during conferences and other Christian events in the community. People then got to know me as a gospel singer. The rest is history today as I just loves to worship my creator with the voice He has given me.

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able says Evelyn Amo TV: And how long have you been singing?

Evelyn Amo: I’ve always been singing as long as I can remember. But as a ministry for 23 years now.

TV: Have you produced any musical album or CD? And what are the plans toward that?

Evelyn Amo: In 2003, I recorded my first album together with Apostle KAN. The title of the album was” A step to tell”. This album featured the song “step by step”. This song be-came a blessing to many people from all walks of life.

Till date, it remains the favorite song of many. After that I’ve released 4 other albums with “Great Deliverer” being the latest. This one was released last year June 2016 and I’m busy promoting it. It has tracks like” Li-on of Judah”, “Fade away”, “Makoma” and many others. The album is called great deliverer, speaking of the mighty hand of God in and upon my life. I’ve seen the delivering power of God in my life and the lives of others and of these I testify.

TV: What are your plans for the future?

Evelyn Amo: We began last year with my annual concert and by the grace of God this year too in June it will becoming on live here in Amsterdam. We just got back from doing a concert in Ghana called the “Eden experience “.

My team and I are working and putting things together to take my ministry to people all over the world. I’m trusting God to write more songs to inspire and encourage people

TV: I know your husband is a man of God and also musical, is it he who encouraged you into gospel music or you have always known that you want to be a gospel musician.

Evelyn Amo: Well, I was already into ministry when I met my husband. We actually met a day before the launching of my first album back in 2003. I knew God had called me and I was walking in my calling. Being married to him has helped shape my ministry. He has be-come the driving force behind the things I do. There are days I feel like giving up on being on stage and he is always there to shake me back to reality. Also him being who he is makes us an amazing team put together by God for His purpose.

TV: Is the gospel music profitable?

Evelyn Amo: Gospel music is absolutely profitable!! Music is a part of me and gospel mu-sic gives me life. The Gospel of Jesus Christ which I bring in my music profits me and everybody that hears it. It has the power to enter places in our lives that only God can reach. Also it’s a language everybody in the world understands. So yes, very profitable.

If you are diligent with your gifts and talents and are not afraid to work for it, you will eat of it also.

to worship and serve God. We are believing God to see the power of praise and worship restored in our generation. I believe the spirit that accompanied David when he ministered is the same spirit living in us. So we must see the power God has placed in His music in our events and concerts.

Continued on Page 20

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Evelyn Amo: I’m trusting God to write more songs to inspire and encourage people to worship and serve God. Continued from Page 19 TV: What advice do you have for younger people who wants to go into gospel music?

Evelyn Amo: The one thing that comes to mind is, find or discover your calling in life. Your gifts and talents are there to help you fulfill your calling. You cannot stay away from the one that calls and just use the gifts at random. Also don’t just stay focused only on your gifts and talents. Allow God to form your character. It will help you to be more effective in fulfilling your purpose on earth. God is not interested in you being a one day fly but he wants to build in you what is needed to get you to the top and keep you at the top. Be patient, learn, serve and endure. When your time comes you will be ready and well-seasoned.

TV: Lastly, how are you able to combine your gospel music with your marriage?

Evelyn Amo: God in His wisdom had prepared me for this season in my life. It’s not easy and there were times I wondered how it was going to work out but with me putting my trust in God and staying close to his guidance we are moving on. One day at a time, step by step. We plan, struggle, arrange, fix, change, shift as we go. God is faithful TV: Is there any other thing you want our readers to know about you?

Evelyn Amo: I want to tell you reading this interview that Jesus loves you, so please give him a chance in your life. Come taste and see that God is good. When tasting, make sure it’s not any man’s ideas, opinions or wishes you are tasting but a true relationship with the living God. Seek him for yourself, taste of Him and then testify of that which has taken place in you. God richly bless you. Also look out for me and come join me whenever I am in a city near you. Visit my website www.evelynamo.com for more on my activities. Those that want my videos can check me out on Youtube. God bless and keep you.

TV: Thank you for the interview Evelyn Amo: Thank you too!

For more information about Evelyn Amo and her ministry activities, please visit www.evelynamo.com. Also connect with her on all social media by typing her name.

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Discography You Are Holy (Single) - December 2016 Live In Amsterdam (CD & DVD) - September 2016 Great Deliverer - June 2016 The Best Of Evelyn Amo - 2015 Total Worship (Collaboration single) - 2011 Praise & Thank Him - 2010 Step By Step - 2006 A Step To Tell - December 2003

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Congratulations!

Congratulations!!

Congratulations to His Royal Majesty, Our Royal Father Obi Emmanuel Efeizomor II (JP) OON Obi of Owa Ika North East Local Government area of Delta State On the occasion of your 79th birthday.

My family and all my colleagues at The Voice magazine join me to wish you a very happy birthday, long life and prosperity.

We pray your reign to continue to bless the people and bring prosperity for all the people of Owa Kingdom and the entire Delta State and Nigeria in general.

Signed: Pastor Ndubuisi Elvis Iruh Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Almere, The Netherlands 22

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South Africa to appear before ICC South Africa has been summoned to appear before the International Criminal Court on April 7th 2017 to answer for its failure to arrest President Omar al-Bashir of Sudan during his visit to the country in June 2015. South African government knowing fully well that there is an international warrant of arrest on him for crimes against humanity in his country before the separation of South Sudan from Sudan where he is the President.

However, this announcement is coming only days after South Africa informed the United Nations of its decision to revoke its withdrawal from the international criminal court with headquarters in The Hague, The Netherlands.

In October 2016, South Africa announced its decision to withdraw from the ICC. But earlier this year, South Africa’s High Court declared the decision, which was taken without parliamentary approval, as “unconstitutional and invalid” and ordered the government to rescind the notice it sent to the UN and return to the fold.

On March 7, the South African government adhered to the court’s decision and wrote a letter to the UN Secretary-General officially rescinding its notice of withdrawal from the court.

Understandably, this has brought a sigh of relief to the ICC and its supporters, who feared of an African exodus from the Hague-based court, following a spate of withdrawals in October 2016 involving two other countries, Burundi and The Gambia.

With change of government in the Gambia, not surprisingly, The Gambia under its new President Adama Barrow also has overturned his predecessor’s decision to withdraw from the ICC and expressed his government’s support for the court. It should be noted that the Chief Prosecutor of ICC, Mrs. Fatou Bensouda is from The Gambia ironically.

At the moment, only Burundi’s withdrawal remains effective and there is no indication that it faces a similar prospect of reversal. While the fear of African exodus from the ICC is now partially eased with the reversals of withdrawals from The Gambia and South Africa, the issue is not conclusively resolved.

Many, particularly those supporting the ICC, welcomed the decision of South Africa’s High Court to revoke the notice of withdrawal and the government’s adherence to the decision. Some even saw it as a manifestation of the end of the so-called “African exodus” from the court.

The celebration may, however, be premature. The South African High Court did not challenge the legality or constitutionality of withdrawal from the ICC per se. The issues it addressed were whether parliamentary approval was a prerequisite for issuing a notice of withdrawal and whether a law repealing the act implementing the Rome Statute, the treaty that established the 24

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ICC, should be adopted before the withdrawal.

There is no indication that President Jacob Zuma’s government has abandoned the plan for withdrawal. South Africa’s reversal of its notice of withdrawal from the ICC does not thus mean that the matter is conclusively settled. It merely expressed acknowledgment that the particular process followed was not legally acceptable.

The Implementation of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court Repeal Bill (Repeal Bill) is currently before parliament. The High Court which declared the notice of withdrawal unconstitutional found that the process for tabling this bill is “legitimately and properly before parliament”. So, the battle over the withdrawal is not over, it has only shifted to the parliament. And the campaign against the bill has now started to include contributions from South Africa’s heavyweight legal minds.

In its judgment on the country’s withdrawal from the ICC, the South African High Court did not address the concerns that President Zuma’s government raised about the court. The instrument of withdrawal deposited with the UN secretary-general pointed out that South Africa found its role in, and obligation for, promoting a peaceful resolution of conflicts to be incompatible with ICC’s interpretation of the Rome Statute.

South Africa is not alone on this.

There is strong view in Africa, which underwrites much of the opposition to the ICC, that pursuing prosecutorial justice in ongoing armed conflicts impedes peace efforts by hardening the position of key protagonists.

Related to this is also the policy debate on whether to implement dogmatic legal positions in the face of impending violence or to facilitate negotiated peace deals in order to halt ongoing carnage and killings arising from the continuation of armed conflicts.

The instrument of withdrawal also indicated South Africa’s decision to give effect to the rule of customary international law in the apparent divergent legal position between South Africa’s Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court Act, 2002 and the rule of customary international law recognizing immunity of heads of state.

It is to be recalled that South Africa’s ICC controversy started in June 2015 when it allowed Bashir, who has an ICC arrest warrant in his name, to attend the African Union summit held in Johannesburg. This gave rise to both political/security and legal dilemmas.

While South Africa’s failure to execute ICC’s arrest warrant attracted criticism, it was not clear if South Africa was ready to assume responsibility for what was to happen to Sudan if it executed the arrest warrant and arrested Bashir.

Also in legal terms, while non-execution of the arrest warrant was contrary to South Africa’s obligations under the Rome Statute, it was believed that the treaty did not affect the customary international law rule on immunity of sitting heads

South Africa launches hate crime unit with Nigeria

S

outh Africa says it will launch an “early warning” system with Nigeria to track and deter xenophobic attacks following a surge in violence in the rainbow nation in the past two months which has left 100s of people dead, displaced and thousands of dollars properties destroyed.

Nigerians and their government has expressed their displeasure at the slow reaction of the South African government to the attacks. There has been treats that South African businesses should be asked to pull out of Nigeria or their products boycotted until these killings stop.

South Africa’s Foreign Minister, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane said the new monitor would “help prevent violence” against foreigners and their businesses as she met with Geoffrey Onyeama, her Nigerian counterpart in South Africa recently.

Last month, more than 20 shops were targeted in Atteridgeville, 120km west of Pretoria, while in Rosettenville, an area south of the commercial capital Johannesburg, residents attacked at least 12 houses. In response to the violence, the Nigerian government called for the African Union to step in and stop the “xenophobic attacks”, claiming over 20 Nigerians were killed in South Africa last year. And the numbers may be on the increase in the first quarter of the year already.

South African authorities have declined to confirm the figure

of state in countries not parties to it.

This was the case with South Sudan as well, and/or its effect at least in respect to such countries remains legally contested and hence unsettled.

The South African government’s position on these two substantive issues remains unchanged. These issues are now to be a subject of parliamentary debate as South Africa’s parliament considers the Repeal Bill.

The ruling party, African National Congress, enjoys an overwhelming majority in the parliament and hence has the necessary numbers to pass the bill. If the bill passes and South Africa withdraws from the ICC, it would be a major loss for the court. This is not only because South Africa is a major African country, but also because its withdrawal would strengthen other ICC state parties’ cases for exiting the court.

This does not, however, has to be the outcome.

Even though the decision to withdraw from the ICC is now a matter of South Africa’s parliamentary process, it can still be prevented, if the court takes action.

Indeed, the planned appearance of South Africa before the ICC in April 2017 offers an opportunity for finding a solution within the ICC process for the two aforementioned issues that motivate the country to leave the court; such a solution may help to remove the steam from the campaign for withdrawal and bury the repeal bill.

By Solomon Ayele Dersso A senior legal scholar and an analyst on Africa and African Union affairs

which may have been the result of other criminal activities, not just anti-immigrant violence, drugs, human trafficking and other crime related killings.

Nkoana-Mashabane told reporters it was untrue that the attacks were specifically targeting Nigerians, adding citizens of other countries were also affected in the attacks but probably Nigerians are in the majority.

She said the monitor would meet every three months and would be made up of representatives from both countries including immigration officials, business associations, and civil society groups.

Onyeama said he had received assurances that Nigerians in South Africa would be able to live in peace and called for an end to “mass attacks”.

According to the Nigerian Union in South Africa, there are about 800,000 Nigerians in the country, many of them living in Johannesburg.

A protest march against “migrant crime” was held in Pretoria on February 24 and resulted in violent clashes between crowds of young South African men and migrants from elsewhere in Africa, including Nigerians, Ghanaians and Somalis.

Attacks against foreigners and foreign-run businesses have erupted regularly in recent years in South Africa, fuelled by the country’s high unemployment and poverty levels.

President Jacob Zuma called for calm and restraint, saying that migrants should not be used as a scapegoat for the country’s widespread crime problem. www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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Celebrating the life of late Chief Nwokenye

Late Chief Onyekenye Christian Nwokenye (Iyase of Owa Kingdom) interment took place at his country home at Owa-Oyibu in Ika North East Local Government area of Delta State and the reception was held at Obaigbena Primary school and the Outing service was held St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, Idumuesah Road, Owa-Oyibu, Delta State.

Courtesy of Mr. Dennis Eboka Global Wealth Ltd

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Nigeria President Buhari: I’ve never been so sick Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has said he has never been “so sick” as he has felt in recent past months. He was speaking to dignitaries in the capital, Abuja, after returning from seven weeks of medical leave in the UK. His absence led to some anxiety in Nigeria with people speculating about the president’s health. Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo was left in charge. The 74-year-old President flew into an air force base in Kaduna from London last month unannounced with few top aides aware that he was back in the country.

Despite talking about how he felt, Mr Buhari did not reveal any details of his condition.

He did say he was “feeling much better now” but added that further medical checks would be required. At the end of his nine-minute speech, Mr Buhari said that he deliberately came back towards the weekend “so that the vice-president will continue and I will continue to rest”.

One of his advisers tweeted that he was joking and his office has clarified that the formal constitutional procedure for him to retake the reins of power had taken place and he has since resume his full responsibilities as president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

President Buhari was in good spirits, joking with senior officials and journalists.

These comments will do little to reassure critics who are questioning whether the president is fit enough to hold office.

His every public appearance in the coming weeks and months will be scrutinized with an unusual intensity for any signs of weakness or ill-health.

Comparisons will also be drawn to the Vice-President, who displayed an energy as acting leader in the past few weeks that was strikingly different to President Buhari’s own style.

The president may be back but for now it is not business as usual. The people are in desperate need for solutions to some pressing problems like the cost of food and living standard of the populace.

As soon as the government can address that, the pressure will reduced on the President and his government.

The country is currently suffering from its worst economic crisis in years, following a sharp fall in the price of oil, its major export. It is the second time in less than a year that President Buhari, who won elections in 2015, has sought medical assistance overseas. Last June, he spent nearly two weeks, again in London, for treatment for an ear infection.

Little information has been made public about his latest stay in the UK capital, but he is back in office now and we wish him well and success for the task ahead. www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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Don Ceder expresses appreciation to voters as he moves on The Dutch elections are over and Lawyer Don Ceder’s party, Christian Union did not secure enough votes to bring him into the Dutch parliament. The party won only 5 seats like the previous elections in 2012 and Don Ceder was number 7 on the list. It was his first time in Dutch politics and according to him, he enjoyed every minute of it.

He wants to use this same medium to thank all those who voluntary work for him and believing in him and trusting him that he is worthy to represent them in the Dutch parliament.

According to him, “I take all the experiences and the encouragement I received on the campaign train back to my job as a lawyer to keep helping the less privilege and people being denied by the system”.

I never knew I could achieve so much within a short period of time and he says thank you all that voted for him and he will definitely stay in touch with the people of the Netherlands.

I hereby once again thank everyone for your support during the past few weeks. I know I’ve asked a lot from everyone . I asked everyone to give me their confidence and voice and you all did. But then to see how many people with conviction from the Netherlands and even from abroad, I’m really speechless.

The Christian Union received more than 60,000 additional votes with respect to 2012 ... a hefty gain of votes! Due to the high turnout as compared to that of 2012 elections, this vote profit seems just not enough for us to gain two extra more seats that would have seen me in the parliament but it’s great to see that we have grown in almost every municipality in the

Netherlands.

I must also say with pride that we from Amsterdam, doubled Christian Union votes and even tripled in the Bijlmer votes relatively well compared to 2012. So all your votes counted and in this area I am thankful for all the support. Thank you.

On the election, he has this to say, “It has become clear that we live in a very politically divided country. While the VVD has become the largest, the party actually has lost eight seats.

The big ‘gainer’ of the election is the PVV, it has actually become the second biggest party in the country with extra 5 seats more. GroenLinks has risen considerably .. but because of the result , the Labour Party has become a much smaller party than before.

According to him, the bigger parties will have to negotiate 32

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what they think it is best option and way forward although it was be very difficult to form a government that enjoy both

majority in the House and the Senate. Many options are not there. Although the CU is mentioned as a possible coalition partner, we have said that there must first, discussion with the big winners, including the Greens. Being part of the government is not a must for us . According to Don Ceder, we want to be and remain credible and stand for our values.

Asked what next for him after the elections? “ I will continue my work regardless of the outcome of political decisions, I want to continue to build a society where everyone counts. I can not just stand on the sideline so I ask everyone to stand up and not turn a blind eye to the many challenges we have as a community. We need each other. The solution to many issues is not in the hands of politicians but in the hands of the community.

Lastly, he used this medium to thank every one who in recent months has helped behind the scenes, helped to paste posters, help to distribute leaflets, to have helped in the early hours of planning and organizing, and everything that was placed before the public to make them vote for me and my party, I say thank you! And anyone who in recent weeks has shown love on the street, on the radio .. through e-mails and the many posts .. I say thank you! I see it .. I feel it and I appreciate it.

O

South Sudan’s government-made famine

during that North-South conflict. fficial, U.N.-declared Now that the South Sudanese famines are a rare have won independence, the phenomenon. The last government of Salva Kiir in Juba one worldwide was six years is using the same destructive ago, in Somalia. Famines are strategies that Bashir used against declared officially when people them. have already begun to starve to death. It is the diplomatic equivalent of a seven-alarm fire. That South Sudanese will starve to death by the thousands, maybe is where the youngest country in the world, South Sudan, finds by the tens or hundreds of thousands. As the images of starving itself today, as 100,000 face immediate starvation and another 1 babies begin to emerge, hundreds of millions of dollars in relief assistance will be delivered, as long as the South Sudan million are on its brink.

The maxim is true that famine does not result from purely natural government follows through on Kiir’s promises to allow causes but is usually “man-made.” Such a description, however, unfettered humanitarian access. But if the only response to these avoids any real accountability for those who have caused the images is a humanitarian one, and the structural causes of this crisis. South Sudan’s famine would be more accurately described famine are not addressed, then this cycle of death will begin again next year, and the year after. Yes, the world must do all it as “government-made.”

The most immediate cause lies in the tactics used by the South can to treat the symptoms of this emergency, but there is also an Sudan government and its principal rebel opponent in fighting opportunity, with increased attention because of the famine, to the current civil war. Government and rebel forces attack civilian finally begin to address the root cause of the crisis. targets much more frequently than they attack each other. They In South Sudan today, war crimes pay. There is no accountability target the means of survival of civilian populations deemed to for the atrocities and looting of state resources, or for the famine be unsupportive. In particular, they raid cattle in areas where that results. Billions in U.S. taxpayer dollars have supported cows represent the inherited savings and means of commercial peacekeeping forces and humanitarian assistance already, and exchange. Massive cattle raids result in complete impoverishment one peace process after another has tried to break the cycle of of entire communities and unleash cycles of revenge attacks that violence. But nothing attempts to thwart the driving force of the poison relations between neighbors and entire ethnic groups. The mayhem: the kleptocrats who have hijacked the government in government has also concentrated recent attacks on areas where Juba for their personal enrichment.

The Sentry, an initiative we agricultural production recently co-founded, conducted traditionally fed large an investigation into the wealth parts of South Sudan, not accumulated by Kiir and other only resulting in massive officials who oversaw a military human displacement but offensive that contributed to the also devastating local current famine. We found that grain production, which immediate family members of leads to hyperinflation in these officials enjoy luxurious food prices. lifestyles abroad, living in lavish But destroying the means estates while South Sudanese of food production is only suffer. one part of the equation There has been no effort to that causes famine. If the counter the networks that benefit South Sudan government financially and politically from allowed humanitarian the crisis. The international organizations unfettered community needs to help make access to the victims of war costlier than peace for the attacks, which include government and rebel leaders and approximately 3 million Women hold their acutely malnourished children in a their international facilitators. people who have been rendered homeless, then the stabilization center in GanyielPanyijiar County, South Sudan. Choking the illicit financial flows of the kleptocrats is the key point aid agencies would have (Albert Gonzalez Farran/Agence France-Presse) of leverage for peace available been able to prevent a famine to the international community, from occurring. But instead, the government has obstructed access by these organizations in a given the vulnerability of stolen assets that are offshored around variety of ways, as have the rebels, thus resulting in huge pockets the world in the form of houses, cars, businesses and bank of populations including tens of thousands of children who have accounts. The most promising policy approach would combine creative anti-money laundering measures with targeted sanctions received little to no assistance at the height of their need.

The South Sudanese people fought for decades for their aimed at freezing those willing to commit mass atrocities out of independence from a rapacious, discriminatory Sudanese regime. the international financial system.

The government of Omar Hassan al-Bashir in Khartoum, which A steep price should be paid for creating famine and benefiting seized power in a coup in 1989, regularly attacked the means from war. Even while the world responds to the famine, it’s time of food production and used starvation as a weapon against the also to address root causes and make those responsible pay for rebellious South Sudanese populations, just as it is still doing their crimes. in Darfur and the Nuba Mountains in Sudan. This resulted in Contributed by George Clooney and John Prendergast in their localized famines and about 2 million South Sudanese deaths report titled: “War crimes shouldn’t pay in South Sudan] www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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Support our projects to give clean water to Kenyan communities say Marion van de Voort Marion van de Voort is the initiator of Stichting Pamoja Kenya. A non-profit organization working in rural areas of Kenya to provide drinking water and toiletry system for the people.

It is a story of love at first sight, just a short holiday in Kenya, she fell in love with this beautiful African country and its people and she decided

to constructively contribute to its developments by engaging the people.

Her foundation in collaboration with the local people is currently implementing projects to achieve several wells and toilets for the 6,000 inhabitants of the villages around Kilifi towns. Besides the general board support, she put her daily life into this

TV: Tell us a little bit about yourself and the organization that you lead?

Marion: My name is Marion van de Voort. I am a Dutch woman.

I am an entrepreneur for over 16 years.

I have a foundation called Pamoja-Kenya (www.pamoja-kenya. com) where we do Water & Sanitation projects for rural people in Kenya because I personally believe that everybody in the world needs access to water, a hygienic toilet and a place to take a shower. These are basic needs of life and it should be provided for all.

My business aspect is MV Afrika Consultancy, which is a link between Kenya/Africa and The Netherlands/Europe. The idea is to provide business & Leisure for all people interested. This line of my business was launched in 2016 and so far it is going well. Before then I did worked as an office Manager and as a secretary for Directors of companies, probably from there my interest developed to do business someday.

TV: How did this organization come into existence?

Marion: Stichting Pamoja Kenia (Dutch written/Dutch based) came on my path. Officially it was launched on 2nd November 2011. I have been travelling all over the world for many years. I have seen so much poverty and inhumane situations and I always wanted to do something about this. I had a small capital and I was on holiday in Kenya, (my very first time in Africa) and I got involved with a small community. I bought some property, I sold it again unfortunately because the community where not reliable. A friend of mine said, the things you are doing with buying and building is giving people a job and a roof above their heads and food to eat. So one came from another. My supervisor, Philip Kahindi, whom I have met before but never knew him that well, asked me what I was doing and it turned out that we started working together since mid-2013 until now, we have been very successful. He is one of those people who saved â‚Ź 0,25 monthly for 12,5 years to buy his own water tank. He is someone whom you can trust to the fullest which you need while working in Africa (or anywhere else) when I am not around to supervise and coordinate the projects. It all started very small and with little 40

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foundation, she is involved in raising funds, selling stuff on the internet to raise enough money to execute these projects in Her foundation need your support and you can visit her website after reading this interview she granted to our Editor-in-Chief, Pastor Elvis Iruh after her recent visit to inspect the projects.

budget.

TV: What is your background, I mean educational training?

Marion: I did my high school, I am an autodidact with English since I was 11 years old. I started with typing lessons. Then I studied Tourism and Spanish. I took a writing course to educate myself and via different courses for computers (even gave computer lessons). About 10 years ago, I did another college course for Human Resources. And many other things.

I am learning so I keep learning to discover new things.

TV: How did you pick interest in Africa and particularly Kenya?

Marion: Like I said before, I was there on holidays and I met people. I bought some property and I just started there. It could have been another country in Africa but I happened to be there at that time in Kenya and I feel in love with the country and its people.

TV: You have been working in Kenya for some years now, tell us your experience in Kenya with the people and their communities?

Marion: Yes, I am working in Kenya since May 2011. Overall, I think the people are very nice, polite, friendly, helpful, and have a good sense of humor. Of course, like many other people, I have been fooled within my work helping the community. I think that is a part of Kenya/Africa and also everywhere in the world, only in Kenya it is more transparent in my opinion. Sometimes it can be really tough before you understand or recognize this, which takes a while. But in the end you learn that you are dealing with a complete different culture which I think, for me it is very interesting. You learn the different mentality of the tribes in Kenya.

The communities vary per community, also very interesting. I think as a western, we have spoiled these communities by always giving and taken their own initiatives away. We have to teach them to take their own responsibility in different matters. That is why our foundation is sustainable. Luckily we work with the local government from the Ward level and up to the top (Assistant Governor) who is elected by the people and who always explain to the people when he opens one of our projects, how difficult and hardworking it is to get enough funds to realize these projects. In general, the people are very happy with the results.

Kenyan people are very intelligent and smart, we can learn a lot from them. They are very flexible and adapt very easily and many times unbelievably fast.

TV: How will you describe the African environment you see in Kenya compared to the Netherlands?

Marion: That is the only thing which is a thorn in my eyes. The garbage everywhere, what people throw on the streets, walking paths etc. Unbelievable. The nature itself is so beautiful but people themselves destroy it. Besides, the fact that it causes diseases, it is not hygienic at all. And the infrastructures on the side of the roads are really bad. Kenya is booming and there are so many cars nowadays but all this traffic is not yet adapted to the side roads. Which means the cars are regularly broken, which of course is very expensive to repair.

I think like they do at Dinai South coast, they clean up the beach regularly by the staff of the resorts. That is a start. Kenya is such a beautiful country with so many variety in nature. Amazing.

Very, very beautiful.

TV: You have recently visited Kenya again, tell us your mission and was it a successful one?

Marion: Indeed I am just back. My mission was to see, accompany and open our 4th Wash Shower & Go project. Water well, water pump, public toilet and public shower.

The public toilet complex (for men and women divided) is completely finished. The power is extended for the water pump. Very interesting story, this is the second project where there is power on the property which we can extend so we don’t need a generator. Stichting Pamoja Kenia pays the cost for extending the power and the government and community pay the monthly power cost. Unfortunately for now, they have dogged almost 100 feet (30.48 meters) for finding WATER and they haven’t reached the good water surface yet. I think, like in our first project they have to dig like 105 feet or more.

The survey is done, so for sure there is enough water only to get constant water you have to dig deeper otherwise the well will break and then there is no constant water. So to give good water quality, you have to be patient and dig deeper. We work with Stichting Flo Flo. The owner is a Dutch and the workers are all Kenyans. They work all over Africa. ‘The Flo Flo’ is the drill, which was invented at the TU Delft in The Netherlands.

To work with Flo Flo is very convenient because they keep to their promises and quotations, no financial surprises at the end, which you have to pay from your own pocket when you work with Kenyan companies, unfortunately.

In this project in Mpenda Kula, we are working at a school terrain. This school was about to be closed because of the fact there was no water. Because of our project the school can stay open. This is really fantastic news.

So to answer your question, my mission was successful at least 60%. In approx. a week time there is water. In this area of 6000 people; all 10 water pumps were broken and the wells are closed so our ambition is to repair all water pumps and wells and give 10 communities of 600 people WATER again.

TV: Do you have other projects you are thinking about and

how soon you plan to execute them?

Marion: Our next Wash Shower & Go project is in 2018 in Matsangoni, that would be village no 6. Next to this I am working on some small side projects with the upbringing of my web shop where we sell handmade Kenyan articles. To provide people with work and income at the same time in Kenya.

TV: What is your relationship with Africans in the Diaspora?

Do you meet them and share ideas with them?

Marion: I have built up a good network/group of people whom I speak to regularly, indeed share ideas with and meet and see at various events or venues. Also I have good relations with the Kenyan embassy in The Hague, also the ambassador herself, H.E. Mrs. Rose Makena Muchiri. As well as Mr. H.E. Jean-Pierre Karabaranga, the ambassador of Rwanda. As well as Mrs. Judge Joyce Alouch of the ICC and different people I met at the Voice Achievers Award last year. As well as People from Somalia who are friends of mine etc. Next to this, I am a member/reader of the African Bulletin.

A very interesting newspaper and also a member of the Netherlands/Africa Business Council (NABC) for business networking in the country.

TV: Have you seen or read the Voice magazine? What is your impression?

Marion: Yes, I have seen and read the magazine. To my opinion The Voice Magazine is a very professional magazine readable for everybody. The subjects and articles are very interesting.

You get a good overview of Africa in general.

TV: Yearly, the magazine recognizes individuals and organizations contributing towards Africa’s advancement. Do you think it is laudable project?

Marion: Yes, I think it is a very laudable project. Especially what you learn about different organizations and what people do and how hard they work to help their own- or other communities. It is always nice to receive recognition as a person and that inspires you to move on.

TV: Lastly what would be your advice to Africans who desperately want to come to Europe to make a living?

Marion: First, Europe is not paradise. It is complicated and expensive continent now. Inform yourself about the country you want to go to; learn the language, follow the news. Don’t think when I am in Europe, all of my problems are solved.

That is not true. The climate for starters is much colder than in Africa.

TV: Thank you for your time and success with your work Marion: Thank you for this interview as well.

For donations to her projects, visit their website at www.pamoja-kenya.com They would greatly appreciate it www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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+ The legacy continues........

Welcome to 2017.

You could be the next in this year 2017 to do business with us ...........

Let the Voice magazine promote your business and services to a wider audience.

(Online editions available NOW) Contact Details: Stichting Paddi Europa inz The Voice magazine Jeroen Boschplantsoen 82, 1318HH, Almere, The Netherlands E-mail: info@thevoicenewsmagazine.com Phone: +31368801341 +31684999548 or +31648519292 www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com www.thevoiceachieversaward.com

The Voice Achievers Award 2017 nomination details reveal

After a success event for 2016, already there is a huge interest for next year’s event as we plan to have double celebration. African and Diaspora awards.

From February 2nd 2017, we are going to open the nomination and for the first time we are allowing the public to participate with our nomination, however the award committee will still have the final say on suitable candidates for recognition.

Now this is the procedure: 1.

You are allowed to nominate one person from any African country for any of the award list which would be published under this mail.

2.

Nomination of a non-African but has contributed towards the advancement of Africa in the past year or years.

3.

You send us a 350 word document profile on the candidate you are nominating and why the candidate deserve to be recognized by the Voice Achievers award committee for 2017.

4.

We would request you also to include your email address in your nomination letter sent to our email address at info@thevoicenewsmagazine.com 5.

If your candidate is not on the list for 2017, he or she would remain on the shortlist for the following year.

Important contest dates to remember • July/August 2017: Candidates nominated and have accepted their nomination names will be announced • 19th to 23rd October 2017: 2017 The Voice Achievers Award to be held in Dhjibolo, Equatorial Guinea.

• 17th November 2017: Diaspora award ceremony to held in Almere, The Netherlands

Be Part of The Voice Achievers Award 2017 This is where achievers are recognized and honour. It can be you .......

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New Health care initiative for villages in Togo

A

t least 24 villages in the Kara region are expected to benefit from a new health initiative spearheaded by electronics giant, Samsung, the Togo Ministry of Health and Vision Togo. The Samsung Mobile Health Clinic is a facility mounted onto a truck and is fully equipped to assist community members in the prevention and diagnosis of medical conditions. The truck will move between Lome and Kara in an eight week rotation to ensure maximum outreach.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Togo’s Minister of Health, Prof.

Moustafa Mijiyawa, says: “We wish to cultivate a culture of proactive healthcare in Togo. The Samsung Mobile Health Clinic supports our mission in championing a healthy nation with our people – to live well, live long and with peace of mind.”

Sir Paul Judge, founder of Vision Togo says: “We are encouraged by this partnership as it supports our goal to reduce inequalities in Togo. We foresee so many communities benefiting from these medical services and the Samsung Mobile Health Clinic is best placed to help us do this. We hope to roll out more clinics in other regions in the future. The mobile clinic will enable last mile health interventions as well as real time data gathering which is essential to improving overall access to healthcare in Togo.”

A large focus will be placed on screening people to establish conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, tooth decay and cataracts. The mobile clinic will also be used to educate the communities about health issues and encouraging people to take tests as a preventative measure.

The Chief of Kpagouda, a village elder, says that the arrival of the mobile clinic in the village will contribute a lot to the reduction of tropical diseases and above all help improve efficiency in the local health system. “It will also empower women, since the clinic arrives direct to the village and they do not need to raise money to travel far to a health facility. It is a great honour for our village to be selected on the route of the mobile clinic.”

Mr. Lee Changwook, managing director for Samsung Electronics West Africa says: “Delivering effective healthcare in the continent usually means doing things differently. The Samsung Mobile Health Clinic is designed for use in remote rural areas, and intended to eliminate the economic and geographical barriers that prevent people

from obtaining free quality medical attention.”

“We continuously strive to make a positive change in people’s lives through our technology and expertise and help the United Nations in tackling the SDGs in Africa to achieve the agreed targets. We are confident the mobile clinic will bring positive change to the lives of people in Togo,” he adds.

About Samsung Electronics Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, smart phones, wearable devices, tablets, cameras, digital appliances, medical equipment, network systems, and semiconductor and LED solutions. For the latest news, please visit Samsung Newsroom at http://news.samsung.com.

About Vision Togo Vision Togo was founded to develop innovative solutions to improve equality of access to healthcare and education. Partnering with the Judge Business School of Cambridge University, Abraaj and DFID, Vision Togo began discussions with the Presidency of Togo regarding technological solutions to healthcare in underserved areas. Vision Togo spearheads pilot programs alongside experienced healthcare professionals from City University of London, creating a dynamic on the ground team in Lome.

Media Contact: Sthe Shabangu Samsung Electronics Africa Tel: +27-11-549-4517 Mobile: +27-71-683 2337 S.Shabangu@samsung.com www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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Dutch elections: The people have spoken.

VVD 33 (41) PVV 20 (15) CDA 19 (13) D66 19 (12) SP 14 (13) GroenLinks 14 (4) PvdA 9 (38) ChristenUnie 5 (5) PvdD 5 (2) 50Plus 4 (2) SGP 3 (3) Denk 3 FvD 2

Prime minister Mark Rutte claimed victory in the Dutch general election with 33 seats in the 150 seat lower house of parliament. His nearest rival, Geert Wilders and the PVV, polled 20 seats, or 13.3% of the vote, in what is being seen as a major blow to the rise of European populism.

Nevertheless, this is an increase on his vote in 2012, when Wilders scored 15 seats. The Christian Democrats and D66 are both polling 19 seats while the big winner of the night is GroenLinks, whose leader Jesse Klaver helped propels the party from four to 14 seats. The VVD may remain the biggest party, but their support is down eight seats on 2012, reflecting some voter unhappiness at the performance of the current coalition. The big blow, however, was to coalition partner Labour (PvdA), which

OPINION: Stop food aid to Africa - You are wasting your money In this age of Fake News, you have to carry out some research for yourself and I was astounded when the UN announced recently that all of a sudden, it is facing the worst crisis ever, with over 20 million facing famine unless another £4.4bn is raised before the end of March 2017. This begs the question, are these organisations using African famine to line their own pockets? Here are my questions: 1. You have never heard of aid ever being stopped in Africa 2. The child mortality rate is worsening 3. The level of funding is going everywhere but to stop the real issue 4. How can 20 million people all of a sudden become vulnerable when the previous funding has been constant and more and more money being pumped into Africa. Something just does not add up. We have all seen the pictures before, starving kids begging for food, with all the money being pumped into Africa; how come the story never gets better?

Who should we really believe about famine in Africa? The UN or the African Agricultural Ministers? In a report by Margaret 46

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saw support plummet from 38 to just nine seats, or seventh place. In total, 13 parties have won seats in parliament.

Newcomer Denk took three and Forum voor Democratie, a far right anti EU party, which was involved in the antiUkraine treaty campaign, won two.

Coalition: The results mean that four parties will be needed to form a new coalition government with majority support in parliament. If the VVD presses ahead to try and form a government with the CDA and D66, ChristenUnie would be a logical partner, commentators say however, the combination would only have a majority of one, and that would make the coalition vulnerable. The results of the election at a glance: Besheer, United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres warned that 20 million people in four countries face famine unless the international community steps in to prevent it.

“The situation is dire,” Guterres told reporters. “Millions of people are barely surviving in the space between malnutrition and death, vulnerable to diseases and outbreaks, forced to kill their animals for food, and eat the grain they saved for next year’s seeds.”

The United Nations has declared South Sudan, Somalia, Yemen and the northeastern part of Nigeria on the brink of famine in the next six months. The world body already has declared that about 100,000 people in two counties of South Sudan’s Unity State currently are coping with famine.

“Famine is already a reality in parts of South Sudan. Unless we act now, it is only a matter of time until it affects other areas and other countries,” Guterres said. “We are facing a tragedy; we must avoid it becoming a catastrophe. This is preventable if the international community takes decisive action.”

He said a staggering $4.4 billion is needed by the end of March.

For the entire year, a total of more than $5.6 billion is needed for these four countries. The U.N. is ready to step in, but needs the funds to do it. Does these countries really need this form of food aid?

We want your contribution to this discussion started by Ben Omoakin Oguntala, developingafrica.net African-in-Chief: SecurityinAfrica.com So who should we believe?

UN: World facing greatest humanitarian crisis since 1945 The world is facing its largest humanitarian crisis since 1945, the United Nations says, issuing a plea for help to avoid “a catastrophe”. UN humanitarian Chief Stephen O’Brien said that more than 20 million people faced the threat of starvation and famine in Yemen, Somalia, South Sudan and Nigeria.

Unicef has already warned 1.4m children could starve to death this year. Mr O’Brien said $4.4bn (£3.6bn) was needed

by July to avert disaster.

“We stand at a critical point in history,” Mr O’Brien told the Security Council on Friday. “Already at the beginning of the year we are facing the largest humanitarian crisis since the creation of the United Nations.”

“Now, more than 20 million people across four countries face starvation and famine. Without collective and coordinated global efforts, people will simply starve to death. Many more will suffer and die from disease.

“Children stunted and out of school. Livelihoods, futures and hope will be lost. Communities’ resilience rapidly wilting away. Development gains reversed. Many will be displaced and will continue to move in search for survival, creating ever more instability across entire regions.”

Mr O’Brien’s comments follow on from a similar appeal made by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres last month.

At that time, he revealed the UN had only received $90m (£74m) so far in 2017, despite generous pledges. Like Mr O’Brien, he urged more financial support for the four countries. But why are they in such dire need?

The pictures were among the most shocking of last year: emaciated children, clinging on to life with what little strength they had left. Four-year-olds not bigger than infants. And mothers unable to do anything to stop their children dying.

It is thought a child dies every 10 minutes in Yemen from a preventable disease, while half-a-million children under five are suffering from severe acute malnutrition.

The UN estimates some 19 million people - or two thirds of Yemen’s population - is in need of some sort of humanitarian help following two years of war between Houthi insurgents and the government, which is backed by a Saudi-led coalition.

What’s hampering aid?

Continuing fighting, lack of rule of law, poor governance, under-development.

A naval embargo imposed by the Saudi-led coalition, fighting around the government-controlled port of Aden and air strikes on the rebel-held port of Hudaydah, have severely reduced imports since 2015.

A lack of fuel, coupled with insecurity and damage to markets and roads, have also prevented supplies from being distributed.

UN agencies say 100,000 people are facing starvation in South Sudan, while a further million are classified as being on the brink of famine. It is the most acute of the present food emergencies, and the most widespread nationally.

Overall, says the UN, 4.9 million people - or 40% of South Sudan’s population - are “in need of urgent food, agriculture and nutrition assistance”. The UN has described the unfolding disaster in north-eastern Nigeria as the “greatest crisis on the continent” - the full extent of which has only been revealed as extremist militant group Boko Haram is pushed back.

It was already known the Islamist group had killed 15,000 and pushed more than two million from their homes. But as they retreated, it became clear there were thousands more people living in famine-like conditions in urgent need of help.

The UN estimated in December there were 75,000 children at risk of starving to death. Another 7.1 million people in Nigeria and the neighbouring Lake Chad area are considered “severely food insecure”.

Boko Haram attacks, lack of rule of law, under-development.

There are still areas under the control of Boko Haram, which aid agencies cannot reach. There have also been allegations of widespread aid theft, which are being investigated by Nigeria’s senate.

The last time a famine was declared in Somalia - just six years ago - nearly 260,000 people died.

At the beginning of March, there were reports of 110 people dying in just one region in a 48-hour period. Humanitarian groups fear this could be just the beginning: a lack of water - blamed partially on the El Nino weather phenomenon - has killed off livestock and crops, leaving 6.2 million people in urgent need of help.

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UAAF events for 2017

Uche African Art Foundation (UAAF) is putting together activities of their foundation for 2017 with the sole purpose to attract buyers for all of their art collections from Africa. Already they have held exhibitions on 8th March 2017 during International women’s day. It was organized in collaboration with Amstelveen local government council. The theme of the exhibition was the strength of the African woman and exhibition of arts and fashion (Afrochique).

Subsequently on 26th March 2017, they also organized the African Wear Jam. And at the end of each month, UAAF in collaboration with Taste of Africa opens an exhibition for African arts and fashion (Afrochique) where diverse activities including African food and music and drinks are available. The location is Develstein 100, 1102 AK Amsterdam-Zuidoost starting from 4.00pm to 8.00pm.

From 22-23 July 2017 and subsequently (annually) every last weekend in July, UAAF Award ceremony in collaboration with Shell Nigeria will be held in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. The program will include competitions and award ceremony for young artists and Afrochique designers. Also there would be exhibition of African Arts and Fashion

by UAAF artists and designers for the public. Live

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band, food and drinks, swimming p o o l parties, cocktails, Suya and club life.

This event will take place at The Shell Club Port Harcourt, Shell Residential Area, Rumuokwurushi commonly called Shell RA starting from 3.00pm to 10.00pm.

The foundation is calling on talented and motivated artists and fashion designers interested for this event either in Nigeria or from here in Europe who are interested and wants to participate to send their request for registration form via info@ uchesafricanart.nl. The offer is open till June 30th 2017.

If you are interested to co-sponsor this event, you can also please contact them via info@ uchesafricanart.nl or tel. +31616899130 Donations can be made to NL INGB 0007 5998 14. T.n.v. Stiching Uche African Art

Comrade Sunny Ofehe & family give mama final funeral rite ceremony in Benin City, Nigeria 25th of February 2017 will forever be remembered by the Ofehe’s family as their late mother, Late Mrs. Theresa Ofehe was properly and finally laid to rest after ten years of her brutal murder in the hands of wicked criminals. The family did not hide their joy to celebrate her life and the good memories of her. It was indeed a carnival funeral, a gathering of great men and women. Comrade Sunny Ofehe led the mourning family paying homage to the elders, receiving guests from home and abroad and then a befitting party and church thanksgiving service in Benin City, Edo state of Nigeria.

The event attracted several dignitaries from all geographical locations represented from the entire country. The event was entertained by Daddy Showkey, Original Stereoman Ekwe Akpor Oghene, The Nigerian Navy Band from Naval Base in Warri, Live Band from Benin City and a popular DJ. All the arm of the Nigerian security forces from the Army, MOPOL, Police and plain cloth officers were there to ensure a peaceful event.

Comrade Ofehe also received an award and investiture as Patron of the Forum of Delta State NGOs. Special thanks goes to the Almighty God. The whole ceremony went according to plan and what a better way to round it off by going to have a Thanksgiving Service. On 26th February 2017, the Ofehe family worshipped at the New Covenant Church of Rev. Dr. Felix Omobude who is a spiritual father to Comrade Sunny Ofehe and the current Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) President. It was a gathering that brought close family members and friends together to thank God Almighty. The turning point was when Ofehe’s friend and brother from another mother Alhaji Mujahid Dokubo-Asari who is a Muslim defied religious sentiment and fellowship with them in the church. According to Comrade Ofehe, he has no words enough to thank everyone who made him and his family very proud.

The family wishes to thank all those that attended and those who couldn’t make it but supported them in different forms.

‘You all made us proud! The various security officials who ensured peace and order. May God bless you all’ says Comrade Ofehe.

Just a few selected pictures from the two-day event are published courtesy of Comrade Sunny Ofehe for the public viewing.

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Sunny Ofehe celebrates late Mom with family & friends

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COMING SOON`: THE VOICE ACHIEVERS AWARD 2017

GRAND HOTEL DJIBLOHO will be hosting the 8th yearly The Voice Achievers Awards from 19th to 23rd of October 2017 in Djibloho – Equatorial Guinea.

THE GRAND HOTEL DJIBLOHO will be offering special discounts to all guests coming to attend this event in Equatorial Guinea. The offers includes 4 nights in (superior rooms and Oyala suites) Special 4 days package with bed and breakfast Special discount for all purchases (full board soft drinks included, breakfast, lunch and dinner in MARIPOSA BUFFET RESTAURANT) Special Restaurant rate (MARIPOSA BUFFET RESTAURANT) Special package stand rent – 4 days for businesses that want to display their goods Special Saturday AWARD Gala Dinner Buffet, at LIBERTADE BALLROOM (including wine red and white) Transfer from Mongomoyen Airport to the Hotel vice versa - Complimentary free of charge Visitation to places of interest in the city including the cathedral of Mongomo For more details, email us at info@thevoicenewsmagazine.com

To know more about this wonderful hotel facility in Equatorial Guinea, visit their website at www.grandhoteldjibloho.com

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SPONSOR The Grand Hotel Djibloho is located in the heart of the Equatorial Forest. Surrounded by green hills and the winding Mbini River, the hotel sits at the heart of Djibloho, the future new administrative capital of Equatorial Guinea, and is only 20 km from the new airport in Mongomeyen.

It is the new the ultimate and unique leisure destination in Equatorial Guinea

Stay with us

All our accommodation options offer the highest level of comfort and the latest and most sophisticated access to all the hotel services. Each room combines sense of elegance and contemporary design, with the finest bed linens and full marble bathrooms.

Grand Hotel Djibloho, Equatorial Guinea 380 Elegantly decorated guest rooms 72 Impressive suites up to 200 square meter 50 Luxurious villas (Elegant and spacious) Amazing Forest view And many more attractions for a wonderful stay in paradise on earth Getting here The best way to travel to Djibloho is flying to Mongomoyen International Airport (20 km from Djibloho) from Malabo airport.

The new road which connects Bata and Mongomeyen allows you to reach Djibloho on vehicle in less than 2 hours.

Visa requirements

US is the only exempted country where its citizens do not require a visa to enter Equatorial Guinea. All other citizens must apply for a travel visa at an Equatorial Guinea embassy prior to traveling. Please refer to your local Equatorial Guinea embassy for complete and updated visa application requirements and mandatory vaccinations.

Airlines flying to Equatorial Guinea National airline Ceiba Intercontinental operates both domestic and international flights from other African countries and Madrid. Iberia flights daily from Madrid to Malabo, which can also be reached from Paris (Air France), Frankfurt (Lufthansa), Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines), Casablanca (Royal Air Morocco) and from other major cities from all the central Africa countries.

Languages The official language is Spanish, and also French and Portuguese. There are also local languages like fang, bubi and others.

CONTACT Djibloho, Oyala WELE-NZAS Equatorial Guinea T (+240) 3500 70 300 M (+240) 551 694 844 E info@grandhoteldjibloho.com http://www.grandhoteldjibloho.com

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Opening of Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Complex to mark his 80th birthday in Ogun State.

Former president Olusegun Obasanjo recently opened the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Complex in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Several dignitaries attend the event, including Vice- President Yemi Osinbajo, former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan, Liberian President and ECOWAS Chairperson, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, former Commonwealth Secretary-General Emeka Anyaoku, former Interim president, Ernest Shonekan, and President of African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr. Akinwumi Adesina.

Other dignitaries at the event included national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu, ex Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Chairman, Ali Modu Sheriff, Governor of Lagos State, Akinwunmi Ambode, Governor Aminu Masari of Katsina, Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun, Senator Godswill Akpabio, Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, Aliko Dangote, Nuhu Ribadu and many others. Ex- president Goodluck Jonathan, Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, Former Ogun State governor, Gbenga Daniels, Senator Ben Murray-Bruce were also in attendance.

Some pictures of the multi-functional library complex

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ADVERTORIAL

INVESTMENT IN REAL ESTATE: EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES FOR NIGERIAN DIASPORAN WITH KAYODE-OBEMBE & CO LTD Real Estate Real estate is the modern term for land, as well as any physical property or improvements that are permanently affixed to the land, including houses, buildings, landscaping, fencing, wells, etc. Investment in real estate therefore, involves the purchase, ownership, management, rental and/ or sale of real estate for profit or private gain. It is about more than just finding a place to call home, but has increasingly become a common investment vehicle to grow and nurture wealth.

It is interesting to note that an overwhelming proportion of today’s and past world billionaires made their fortunes through real estate and in most cases, the journey to wealth starts from just one property and the portfolio keep growing.

Have you ever wonder why property owners were called “lords”, or as now more colloquially known as “landlords”? It’s because owning properties gives power and financial freedom. There must be a reason why every rich person you know owns multiple properties. Even Donald Trump today remains a billionaire thanks to his real estate fortunes as most of his other businesses have declared bankruptcy.

It is particularly gainful to invest in real estate in a growing and volatile economy like that of Nigeria as the real estate provides a safe hedge and store of value against inflation. The low rate of inflation in the country is positive for those that have real estate as assets because as the inflation goes up, so does the value of your real estate.

Associated Risks However, in spite of the compelling opportunities that exist in investing in real estate, it also comes with its own associated risks. The most fundamental risk in real estate investment in Nigeria is the possibility of falling into hands of fraudsters. It is therefore important that you deal with the right people and invest in properties with genuine titles when investing in Nigerian real estate.

After ensuring the integrity and genuineness of the people and properties with whom you are dealing with, the next important factors to consider are location, location and again, location! The rate of your success in real estate investment is determined largely by the location where you are putting your investment. If you are ever to choose between a good location with a higher price or bad location with a lower price, consider the former: When considering good location, one of the key factors to look out for include: area with appreciating value, axis on the line of current development, nearness 56

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to other properties with current or prospective values and good transportation. It is also important to look at the locations in regard to the future, rather than that of the past for higher, long term returns. It is also financially wise for prospective investors to consider investing dormant capital that’s sitting in low yielding Bank accounts into real estate. It may be a tough slog the first few years, but somewhat later, you’ll probably wish you had bought more.

Investing in real estate is also becoming an increasingly favorable option for those eying retirement and who want to take advantage of real estate’s return potential and its abilities as a portfolio diversifier and inflation hedge.

“

“Everybody can own a property here, call us or email us for more details....

THE PLAN IS EASY TO REACH” Why you must consider investment in Real Estate.

Other reasons why you must consider investment in real estate includes: • Hedge against inflation. You only hate inflation if you don’t have an asset that is inflating. Inflation is increasing the values of your properties hopefully faster than any input costs and the costs to operate the asset. Some people used to think back in 1996 how ridiculous it was for anyone to pay N50,000 to purchase a plot of land in the Ajah area of Lagos State. Today, the same one plot of land is over N50M. Inflation is a powerful economic force that’s difficult to stop. You would rather want to own inflating assets than always be a price taker.

• Rise on growing economy. When times are good, assets tend to inflate quicker due to higher employment, rising wages, and rising corporate profits leading to more demands on properties. Real estate tends to be a major beneficiary during a bull market. Forget about protecting yourself against inflation, owning real estate is a gainful opportunity to make money with inflation. If there happens to be hyperinflation, your cash is devaluing rapidly whereas your real assets start surging in nominal value. When economic tightness returns sooner or later, it causes another surge in property prices.

• Generational asset. You can pass on property from generation to generation, conceivably making your family and loved ones lives a little bit better. Think about our university graduates nowadays who are complaining they might never be able to afford owning a home like their parents due to exorbitant prices. Now think how much worse it will be for their children.

Everybody has heard a story of some grandparent buying a home for just N20, 000 that is now worth millions of Naira.

If you can buy a property to live and enjoy, and then pass it down the family to give your children a heads start, what an amazing gift you’ll provide. But besides working hard, a massive generational wealth transfer should help support future generations.

• Little effort to build wealth. The whole idea is to invest in assets that work for you, and not the other way around. Real estate is a relatively easy business to understand compared to investing in stocks. For instance, on a rental property, good location, good tenants, manageable maintenance, and rental growth are all it basically takes to make for a solid real estate investment, whereas stocks have so many more variables to deal with, including: management credibility, industry growth, competition, politics, regulation, tax policies, inventory turns, margin analysis, operating profit growth, and more. Meanwhile, to turn N100, 000 into N500, 000 through equity investing is no easy feat, neither is making an interest of another N400,000 on the deposit into a Bank over 7-8 years.

• Paying on installment with no interest. For people paying on a property over a period of time on installment, the rate is fixed and the payments never change. 3-4 years from now you might be paying the same amount that aren’t worth as much as when you first took out the subscription for the property on installment. As your net worth grows, the amount you pay monthly or so becomes a smaller part of your overall net worth, thereby reducing any feelings of stress associated with paying for the property.

• Collateral asset. Unlike cash, which serves no utility function, property addresses not only a fundamental human

need, shelter but can also serve as collateral material against loans. If our financial system goes to hell, at least you will have an asset you can actually utilize. Remember, cash is just an ordinary paper and worthless unless it’s turned into a tangible asset!

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Own property is in the best location in NIGERIA Continued from Page 57 • Tangible asset. Real estate is a tangible asset that will continue to add measurable value and enduring impact to everyday life and a valuable financial portfolio. It is an investment you can see, feel and touch, giving you a sense of accomplishment and success.

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Setting new standards in the delivery of services in the real estate sector, our Company acquires, develops, sells, leases and manages properties and real estate products in choice locations across the country.

K A Y O D E OBEMBE & CO LTD is a company that stands totally on the trust placed on it by its valued clients. The company returns this trust by continuously working to provide satisfactory and affordable housing opportunities and real estate investment windows.

We believe in empowering our clients to make better informed investment decisions in their bid to either create wealth or become home-owners’ through property development.

We are the promoter of serviced plot estate development projects within Lagos Megacity axis. Our estate development projects include: a) Portview Estate, (Lekki Free Trade Zone) Ibeju-Lekki, 58

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Lagos b) Victory Estate, (Lekki Free Trade Zone) Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos c) Gracecourt, Mowe, Off Lagos-Ibadan Expressway d) Vineyard Estate, Mowe, Off Lagos-Ibadan Expressway ICPC & NIDO MOU: An added value for the Diaspora The Diaspora Housing investment scheme will key into the independent corruption practices and other related offences commission (ICPC) of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Nigerians in Diaspora organization (NIDO) Germany’s memorandum of understanding which allows collaboration in the areas of design, pilot testing and deployment of ITbased anti-corruption applications and tools towards effective and efficient public sector management in Nigeria and shall include but not of limited to Land acquisition, allocation, registration, management and background checks on estate developers.

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E-mail: info@thevoicenewsmagazine.com

Mrs. Aisha Buhari’s Health Screening Exercises for under served Nigerians.

Since the assumption of Muhammadu Buhari as President of Nigeria, Mrs. Aisha Buhari has focused her attention on issues that affect Women and children who are the most vulnerable in the society.

Mrs. Buhari understands that the role of women in every society cannot be over emphasized, therefore, their health and wellbeing should be enhanced in order for them to make meaningful contribution both in political and economic participation for national development. She has for many years made her contribution in this regard through the Aisha Buhari Foundation.

Her realization of the depth of health challenges faced by women and children prompted her to found a platform called Future Assured. Through this platform, she has been travelling from state to state across the country to build partnerships with stakeholders, and to contribute in providing an enabling environment for the implementation of basic public health programmes and awareness creation on health issues.

As a result of the partnerships she has entered into, it became easier to identify what health problem is prevalent in each state, and what contribution a platform like hers can offer. Future Assured has so far identified many of these medical problems, which are women killers. These include breast cancer, cervical cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, malaria, and sickle cell anaemia. The morbidity and mortality rate is very high in the country due to these preventable diseases.

Diabetes is one of the critical health challenges identified; it is a chronic disease of high blood glucose, which can result in serious damage to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys and nerves. Cases have been on the increase in the past few years. In Nigeria, about 5 Million people are still living with diabetes, while more than 1.5 Million cases of diabetes were recorded in 2015. Also, 40,815 deaths due to diabetes were recorded in adults in 2016. These figures are sure to drop with adequate awareness, especially among those that are vulnerable.

Another women killer is Cancer. In Nigeria about 10,000 cancer deaths and 250,000 new cases are recorded annually.

Cancer results from abnormal growth of cells that have the ability to spread to other part of the body. There are many types of cancer. But of all the types, breast and cervical cancer affect women the most.

Take breast cancer, for example; the first notable symptom of breast cancer is a lump that feels different from the rest of the breast tissue; one breast becoming larger or lower than the other; a nipple changing position or its shape becoming inverted. There could also be some discharge from the nipples, or constant pain in parts of the breast, or even rashes on or around a nipple.

Screening of the breast regularly can help in early detection, which, in-turn will help achieve early prevention. The mission of Future Assured is to alert women to be conscious of their bodies and train themselves to perform simple selfexamination of their breast in order to stay safe.

Cervical cancer is another type that affects the cervix. It has no early symptoms; later symptoms may however include vaginal bleeding. Therefore, cervical cancer screening would help in early detection using Pap smear or acetic acid; quick

intervention usually prevents its spread.

Late detection in both types of cancer is still a major challenge; Therefore awareness creation is still the way out.

Hepatitis, sickle cell and other related ailments are bloodrelated. It is therefore important that people have knowledge of their genotype. Genotype is the collection of genes passed from parents to children. In order to avoid these killer diseases, it has been advised that couples check their genotype before marriage; this will help them avoid having children who may live very sick lives or even die in infancy. Parents should also check the genotype of their children during pregnancy and also after birth.

High blood pressure also known, as hypertension is another killer that puts people at the risk of stroke and kidney failure.

The disease is on the rise in Nigeria and is a massive killer.

The major challenge of hypertension is that people are not aware of the necessity for, or cannot afford regular blood pressure checks.

Another is Malaria, which is endemic in Nigeria with 300,000 deaths per year and 100 million cases. Nigeria bears up to 25% of malaria disease burden in Africa, making the country the highest in malaria mortality. Malaria is a treatable and preventable disease that remains a major killer of children. Malaria in pregnant women causes anemia and other complications in both mother and newborn. Malaria is caused by blood parasites from person to person through the bites of infected mosquitoes.

It is because of the gravity of these diseases that Future Assured decided to advocate for government to pay more attention to these killers, and to conscientize women on the need to understand the danger of these diseases and screen themselves from time to time. In order to show example to the stakeholders and pass the message to women, screening exercises were planned, organized and conducted in states, in collaboration with local NGOs. So far, screenings have held in eight states; these are Cross River, Adamawa, Katsina, Enugu, Nasarawa, Ogun, Oyo and Kogi. It is intended that such screenings will hold in all states of the country.

In consideration of the important of the sense of sight, and the rate at which people are becoming blind, Eye examination was included in the list of ailments for which women were screened. Doctors have recommended tests at least every 2 years. The Eye examination provides accurate assessment of the ability to see, and gauges the general health of the eyes. Eye examination can result in early identification of other eye -related problems.

In each of the states listed above, an average of 2000 women have benefitted from these screening exercises; and these are bound to change their own lives and the lives of their friends, spouses and children. Gradually, the practice of self-screening will become the norm, while the number of women lost to these killers will drop considerably.

In fact, Mrs. Buhari has secured two mobile clinics in order to ease access to the most difficult to reach areas around the FCT for the purpose of these health screenings. The plan is to have these mobile clinics deployed to all the six geo-political zones of the country.

When this happens, Future Assured and Mrs. Aisha Buhari would have succeeded in their purpose of making a difference in the lives of women in Nigeria.

By Aisha Bunu She writes from the Office of the Wife of the President www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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‘Wind of change blowing in African football’

Ahmad replaces Issa Hayatou as African football chief after 29 years

Ahmad Ahmad: New President of Confederation of African Football (CAF),

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hmad Ahmad has become president of Confederation of African Football (CAF), beating Issa Hayatou who served for 29 years. Ahmad won the election in the Ethiopian capital by 34 votes to Hayatou’s 20, after the most keenly contested election in the history of the football body.

Madagascar’s football chief, Ahmad Ahmad, was elected president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) last month, ousting veteran leader Issa Hayatou after 29 years in office and he was still running. Ahmad won the election in the Ethiopian capital Addid Ababa. “When you try to do something, you mean that you can do it,” Ahmad told reporters after the vote. “If I can’t do it, I never stand.”

Ahmad is a 57-year-old father of two, had a playing and coaching career before he took the reins of the Madagascar football federation in 2003. His rare and determined bid for “change” at the head of the CAF this year took many by surprise and the incumbent was seen as the favourite but he was shocked at the vote for change, following the example of FIFA elections as well, to break away from the old and past leadership for new and fresh hands.

‘Real change’

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Mr. Issa Hayatou voted out after 29 years in offiice

CAF members will now be hoping Ahmad delivers on the “change” he had promised. “Ahmad has long been saying that African football is in real danger of being left behind unless there is real change at the top,” he told the press.

“In his campaigning, he really appealed to smaller nations within Africa. Madagascar, the tiny footballing nation he represents, has never qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations, never mind the World cup. “But that was one of his biggest strengths, some of the continent’s smaller nations had grown disenfranchised with the old guard and the confederation.”

So Ahmad’s appointment comes at a time when the relationship between Hayatou and Gianni Infantino, president of world football’s body, was “strained” at best.

“FIFA is currently looking at redistributing funds in Africa and it may decide to how many extra African teams go into the 2026 World Cup, so this change in leadership means a lot.”

Hayatou headed CAF since 1988 and is a senior vice president of FIFA. He has been credited with increasing the number of African teams at the World Cup and bringing in extra finance for the continent’s competitions.

Liverpool defender Joel Matip reflects on not playing for Cameroon at last Nations cup final

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iverpool defender Joel Matip was embroiled in a dispute with FIFA as Cameroon went on to emerge victorious in the Africa Cup of Nations, but looking back on the saga the 25-year-old has no regrets.

Matip, who had turned out only once for his national team since the 2014 World Cup, was included in Cameroon’s squad for the Africa Cup of Nations, despite stating his unwillingness to play.

It led to a wrangle between Liverpool, the Cameroon FA and FIFA, with Matip missing five games in January 2017 as a result of his refusal to play for Cameroon. But, despite the Lions going on to taste glory in the tournament and emerge victorious, Matip admits he holds no regret about not being out in the thick of the action in Gabon.

‘It’s done now and I’m looking to the future,’ Matip told the press. ‘I only wanted to stay here and play. It was not easy because I didn’t understand what was going on. Now the problem is solved and I can concentrate on Liverpool,’ Matip added.

Since coming to the Premier League, Matip has identified himself as a key component in Jurgen Klopp’s side, while showing himself to be a true winner.

Had he travelled with Cameroon, he would have had another winners medal to add to his trophy collection, but the 25-year-old admits he knew the national team had all the capabilities to succeed.

‘I knew they could win it. I was happy,’ said Matip. ‘Cameroon is a big football nation. I was happy for them because the last years were not easy and they got back to their old spot.’

With plenty of his football career ahead of him the Liverpool man has plenty of opportunities to represent his country in the future, though Matip insists this won’t be the case.

When asked whether he would turn out in the colours of Cameroon again, Matip replied in an unequivocal tone. ‘No. I tried to play there and represent my country, do my best and achieve something but all the surrounding things were not the best to do this.

‘It is Africa and you can never compare it to European things. I’ll concentrate on Liverpool. It’s done,’ he added.

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Towards the restructuring & renegotiation of Nigeria, professionals from the Southeast and South-South plan Geo-political and Socio-Economic Union South-East, South-South Network (SESSNet), an amalgam of professionals, activists and community leaders from across the 11 States in Nigeria’s South-East and South-South geo-political zones, has concluded plans to explore the possibility and opportunities for an Economic Union amongst the peoples of the twin zones as prelude to the proposed restructuring and renegotiation of Nigeria.

Already, the group has already concluded plans to hold a conference in collaboration with key stakeholders in the twin zones on April 18, at Owerri in Imo state. In an official statement jointly signed by the National Coordinators, Messrs Dowell Mirin, Eze Eluchie and Emen Dunn on behalf of other coordinators, the 1st SESSNet Conference will have as its theme: ‘South-East and South-South: Towards Greater Economic Union.’

Issues to be discussed at the conference, as indicated in the Statement include: fiscal federalism, economic integration, political integration, addressing regional fears, mistrust and political concerns and inter-regional commerce among the eleven states of

the South-South and South-East.

According to SESSNet, the Conference will provide ample opportunity for the South-South and South-East states to focus on the natural resources of the zone with a view to highlighting areas and items of comparative advantage in the allocation of scarce resources in the zones and ultimately entrench inter-regional trade and commerce.

Lamenting that the region has had its growth and development stunted by inherent contradictions of the Nigerian State, SESSNet further stated that the South-South and South-East regions have an enormous and the greatest potentials in terms of human, economic and natural resources in Sub Saharan Africa.

The group ultimately hopes to create a South-South/South-East network of dedicated professionals and leadership in various spheres of human endeavour to synergise and assume leadership positions and to educate and enlighten the youths in the region to take control of their destiny.

This 1st SESSNet Conference will take place at the Conference Hall of the Links Hotel, Chief Evan Enwerem Avenue, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria, on the18th of April 2017 at 10:00 am prompt. The Conference will feature presentations by speakers underscoring the belief by SESSNet to raise a new crop of leadership in the twin zones.

For inquiries, contact: Barrister Eze Eluchie ezeeluchieassociates@yahoo.com +2348175177880

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