Dec/Jan edition 2018

ISSN:2588-8807

ISSN:1571-3466

Motto: Actuated towards Africa’s advancement

Volume 20. NO. 168 Dec./Jan. 2018

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First complete African magazine published in The Netherlands since August 1999

Meet His Excellency, Ambassador Oji Ngofa Nigerian Ambassador to The Netherlands The Voice Achievers Award goes to Dubai in 2018

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Contents

The Voice Magazine Volume 20. No 168 Dec./Jan. 2018 Edition

56.57

24-25

ARTICLES 4 - Editorial: Leadership failure in Africa to be blame for modern day slavery.

8 & 9 - Feedback- Pages for your letters and opinion Pages 12 & 13- Ambassador Ngofa assume office after presentation of Letters of Credence to King Alexander of Holland Pages 14 & 15 –Meet President Emmerson Mnangagwa: Pages 22 & 23 - President Kenyatta calls for unity, optimism as he takes oath of office for the second time.....

Page 26 – Africa’s ‘City of Innovation’ to Host Conference on ‘Uniting Africa’ Pages 38 & 39 – AU, EU & UN agrees to work together to end modern day slavery in Libya.....

Page 54 - Aids Fight in Africa Page 55 - The Voice Achievers Award goes to Dubai 2018 Page 60 – No easy draw for African teams at the 2018 World cup Page 61 – Nigeria female Bobsled team for the Olympics Page 62 - Joey clocks 10 Page 63 - Doctors of the World helps people without papers to the doctor

HAPPY & PROSPEROUS 2018 TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS AND READERS. WE LOVE YOU ALL. SEE YOU IN 2018

SUBMISSIONS: Articles and photographs for publication are welcome but the publisher while exercising all reasonable ­ caution 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 www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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EDITORIAL

Leadership failure in Africa to be blamed for modern day slavery The surge of young African migrants trying to escape to Europe is not only a desperation to seek a greener pasture but the failure of African nation’s leadership to do anything to prevent these young men and women to risk their lives to Libya en-root whatever means possible to get to Europe. The danger was there, the hand writing was clear on the wall that soon Libya will be overwhelmed with the desperation of the volume of thousands of people appearing in their country. After the assassination of the former leader, Muhammad Gadhafi, the country was plunged into a civil war of its own which the West has not been able to help resolved or bring back normalcy to the country. Then came the surge of illegal immigration through Libya. Libya did cried out for help to stop the illegal immigration but the European Union turned a deaf ear. It is no surprise that the criminal gang in Libya are capitalizing on this to enslave their fellow human beings and melting out the worst form of human abuse on their fellow Africans; many killed, tortured and made to disappear. Not until the video surface of the maltreatment of these immigrants particularly those from West Africa (Nigeria, Ghana, Mali, Burkina Faso, The Gambia and a few pocket of people from other African countries, majority are Nigerians).

Why should Nigerians be fleeing their homeland when there is no war or eminent threats to lives and properties?

The answer is obvious – lack of faith in their leadership to provide them with a future. This has nothing to do with whatever government in power either PDP or APC! It is a failure of leadership at all levels; Nigeria with a population of over 180 million people continue to graduate University students each year without commensurate opportunities for job employment. Opening up a university in Nigeria has become a fashionable trend with universities all over the country and yet no opportunities for these graduates.

The only option left for them is criminality and desperation to get out of the country. Nigeria boost of high level skill professionals across the world, one of the most studied or read people in the world. We could speak the same for the other African countries; those leaving are not the weak, sick or lazy; rather they are the future, the strength of those 4

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nations leaving to find other opportunities.

What is the way forward? As a matter of urgency, Libya authorities should help to identify each of these persons trapped in their country and help to facility their return to their home country. The process is already in motion,

Pastor Elvis Iruh Editor-in-Chief

but it is very slow at the moment, many more lives would be wasted; each of them in the camp should be returned and their government as matter of urgency take responsibility for their medical care and rehabilitation into the system, through job creation and empowerment activities. The Europeans on their part should help to create better institutions rather than condemning illegal immigration; they need to invest to stop illegal immigration. We don’t need more universities, we have enough, we need job creations and empowerment activities more in the private sector. Finally, there is enough information out there, that Europe or America is no paradise any longer, the warnings are there; stop risking your lives to try to get there. Stop comparing yourselves to those who made it there years ago; things have changed.

The Voice Achievers Award 2017.

The award was a huge success with 27 awardees present at the ceremony to receive their awards and express their appreciation for the recognition. The First Lady of Rwanda in her letter published here accepted her award and inspired us to continue the good work we have started. All we can say is thank you to all who made it possible for 2017 edition and we look forward to 2018. The date is set for 26th October 2018 in two places, one in The Netherlands and the second in Dubai, The United Arab Emirates. You will be informed of the details of both events.

This is our last edition for 2017, enjoy all the juicy materials in there for you and looking forward to doing business with you in 2018. Happy New Year in Advance.

God bless you all.

President Elvis Iruh The Voice publication

The Voice magazine 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 Editorial board are Elvis Iruh, Jonathan Mgbejume, Sandra Iruh-Monsels, and Henry Oduenyi READ THE VOICE ON LINE AT www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com Our Affiliate partner: www.thenigerianvoice.com Registration NO: (Kvk. Nr. 34.110.928) TAX (BTW) NO: NL806215809B01 ISSN: 1571-3466 (For Print edition) ISSN: 2588-8807 (For Digital edition) For payments, use these bank details: Stichting Paddi Europa SNS Bank Account No: NL29SNSB0908374372 Swift Code: SNSBNL2A OR Stichting Paddi Europa Knab Bank Account No: NL77KNAB0725202238 Swift Code: KNABNL2H

Graphic Designers David Banjoko Wil Gomersbach (Web Master) George Adegite Handy Tims Printer: Drukkerij Palteam www.palteam.nl THE VOICE MAGAZINE TEAM Publisher: Stichting Paddi Europa Editor-in-Chief Pastor Elvis Ndubuisi Iruh elvisiruh@thevoicenewsmagazine.com Founding/Contributing Editor Edward Idahosa Ogbee apexbest2000@yahoo.co.uk Managing Editor Henry D. Oduenyi (Nigeria Office) henry@thevoicenewsmagazine.com Associate Editor Lucky Osahon (London, UK) hlosahon@hotmail.com Project Coordinator Ifeyinwa Ezeagabu i.ezeagabu@thevoicenewsmagazine. com Advert Executive Faith Ehanire ehanire4607@gmail.com Project Editor (Nigeria) Chiedu Harris Ify henry@thevoicenewsmagazine.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 (Madrid, Spain) nicholasmicnita@yahoo.com Barrister Eze Eluchie (Nigeria) paddingr@yahoo.com Kehinde Aig-Imoru (Nigeria) aigimoru@yahoo.com Rev. 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 CONSULTANT Jonathan Mgbejume Abeka Salmin Abdallah Mildred Kleinbussink Pastor Duncan Spier Engr. Barry Igbeare Ambassador Laila Rahhall EL Aftani 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 www.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 c­ ountries problems and bring information to help address those issues. TV

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CALL US FOR YOUR TICKETS TO ENJOY ALL YEAR ROUND OFFERS & LAST MINUTE CHANCES AND BOOKINGS ...... SEE YOU ALL IN 2018 6

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RWANDAN FIRST LADY LETTER TO THE VOICE ACHIEVERS AWARD

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FEEDBACK Dear Editor, Thank you for the beautiful Award.

To all the award committee members, I feel still very honoured that I have received this beautiful award for my foundation work, so far in Kenya. Through this award I truly hope, that more people in Africa can get water, a hygienic toilet and a clean shower. And of course I am willing to commit myself in whatever way I can, for the next Voice Achievers Award in 2018. Thank you very much for your trust in me.

Wishing you a very bless of times ahead.

By Marion Van De Voort www.pamoja-kenya.com info@pamoja-kenya.com The Hague, The Netherlands.

Dear Editor,

Humbled & honored!

‘I dedicate this award to my Grandmother, Beatrice Efua Oyemam Armah, in who’s entrepreneurial footsteps I walk.

To my mother & sisters who have supported me throughout this journey and to all strong women in Africa who are leading their community through tough times with their entrepreneurial skills & hard work.

And to the young ladies who will follow in our footsteps. May you be inspired to follow your dreams! #the voice committee & Pastor Ndubuisi Elvis Iruh, Thank you so much for the acknowledgment.’ Lady Africa ‘s Founder Irene Hin receives the #thevoiceachieversaward2017 for #africanentrepreneurship.

Irene Hin The Hague, The Netherlands

Dear Editor, Thank you for this wonderful award Special thanks to Africa Top Voice magazine for this wonderful event. Been around people of great achievement is something I will always cherish. My special regards to man of God, Pastor Ndubuisi Elvis Iruh for this recognition.

May God continue to elevate you to the highest platform of God’s plan for your people.

Sarah Mbeti Karingi Nairobi, Kenya Dear Editor,

I will contribute more to our continent and humanity as a whole.

On behalf of the people of Sierra Leone, I am grateful and inspired by your recognition of my contribution to our Africa continent and humanity as a whole. The award is something l will take along with me in my next journey to serve the continent and humanity as a whole. I will stay committed to the Voice magazine because you are serving humanity in true spirit of love and accepting diversity. Looking forward to either attending the next Voice award or contribute where l can in the future. I thank you all.

Abubakarr Conteh Antwerp, Belgium 8

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Special Guest in our New Year Edition.

JEBI LOVE .........

She is the host of JEBITV, a talk show host/ presenter, a blogger, Jebi Love is based in Belgium and she is a popular face on the social media platform. She has a strong followership around the world. She is a model, an actress, a mother, radio host, motivational speaker and many more. She spoke exclusively to the Voice magazine Publisher/Editor-in-Chief on her life and passion for what she does. You don’t want to miss her interview. For your copy, send us an email at info@thevoicenewsmagazine.com.

Make it a date to start the New Year getting your copy of The Voice magazine by mail...

TV Management.

FEEDBACK Dear Editor, WE DID IT FOR ZAMBIA AGAIN! Presenting to you the African Image Maker Award.....

Won by a Zambian for Zambia to Zambians. We did it friends, we got the “”African Image Maker Award 2017”, it takes courage to find your own path, be courageous today and walk that journey. Thank you so much all of you for the lovely messages and for giving me the backing I needed. Surely there is nothing as precious as support from your own people. My mini vacation was good; took me also to Malta and now back home to continue to work. Thank you for the award, it has definitely inspired me to do more. Inspire someone today.....Believe in yourself today..... Today is your day......

Buumba Malambo Lusaka, Zambia

Dear Editor, This award is dedicated to every adult & child This award is dedicated to each and every adult and child that has shared a life journey allowing me to be their positive supporting pillar (in happiness, saddness and in ill-health). I thank God for the gift of love and passion showered on me for my community far and near .

I want to thank The Voice team (The Netherlands) for presenting me with this award. (I know that I had refused this nomination before but the pastor would not accept my refusal and told me that he was not going to wait to celebrate me after I had passed away).

Thanks to Pastor Ndubuisi Elvis Iruh. I am ready to work and show the world my underground work, exciting times ahead.

LET US SUPPORT OUR YOUTH. Irene Lelieveld London, United Kingdom

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Congra

tulatio

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ngratu

lations

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Chief Mrs. Patience Odeh Gerrits Oluaa Oyherafe of Okpe Kingdom 10

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CONGRATULATIONS

His Excellency, Ambassador Oji Ngofa Nigerian Ambassador to The Netherlands assume office

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Ambassador Ngofa assumes office after presentation of letters of Credence to King Alexander of Holland The Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Nigeria & Permanent Representative to the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), His Excellency Ambassador Oji N. Ngofa officially resumed duties in The Hague after presenting his Letters of Credence to His Royal Majesty, King Willem Alexander on Wednesday 6th December 2017 at his palace in The Hague.

He was accompanied to the palace by his wife, Mrs. Diepriye Oji Ngofa and senior staff of the Nigeria Embassy in The Netherlands.

After the official duties to the palace, the Nigerian Embassy held a reception at the Crowne Plaza hotel to introduce His Excellency to Nigerians in The Netherlands and the diplomatic community as well as friends of Nigeria. With his wife at the reception entrance, they welcomed every guest and exchanged pleasantries. His Excellency spoke just few words expressing his gratitude to God and the President of Nigeria, President Buhari who has appointed him to serve and represent the interest of Nigeria in The Netherlands.

He assured that he would continue to maintain the good

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and cordial bi-lateral relationship that already existed with the Netherlands and work with other diplomatic missions to promote and project the good image of Nigeria to the Dutch society and the rest of the world.

He appealed to Nigerians to put aside their differences and

work together for the common good of the country for in unite we gain our strength.

He encouraged our Dutch friends to partake of the Nigerian delicacy served by Obalede Restaurant.

It was a good start and we wish His Excellency and his staff wonderful and successful tenure as Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Netherlands.

View Photos of His Excellency trip to the palace. To follow in the next edition are pictures from the reception.

Pictures courtesy of Mr. Fatai Badmus photos

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President Emmerson Mnangagwa: Will he be different from Mugabe?

his is the beginning of a new unfolding democracy in our country, President Emmerson Mnangagwa told his country men and women at his first public address since returning to Zimbabwe. But is it? For five decades, President Mnangagwa was former Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe’s protégé, comrade, and right-hand man until they fell out few months ago.

He was at his side during the fight against white minority rule, and during the post-liberation government. He is also said to have been behind some of the most notorious acts of repression which helped keep Mugabe in power for that long There are, however, some key differences between the man who has become Zimbabwe’s new president, the second since independence and replacing his former mentor.

President Mnangagwa is in his 70s but that is still around two decades younger than the man he replaced although no one is sure of his real age, 71 or 75 years old.

There is some dispute over whether he is 71 or 75. President Mnangagwa is said to have avoided being hanged when arrested during the fight for independence by lying about his age. But while Mr Mugabe was notoriously stubborn, Mnangagwa is said to be more flexible in his approach, if only for the purposes of achieving his goals.

With elections planned for next year, many in the ruling Zanu-PF party, whose ranks are filled with veterans of the struggle for independence, will be hoping he can reach out to Zimbabwe’s youth for a change and departure from Mugabe high handedness.

However, like Mr Mugabe, he has a reputation for ruthlessness.

He was in charge of state security during the Matabeleland massacres of the 1980s, in which some 20,000 people were killed on suspicion of being part of a rebellion.

And human rights groups accuse him of being behind a violent crackdown on opposition supporters after the disputed 2008 election.

So one key question facing Zimbabwe, is whether he will allow the next election to be free and fair.

As well as being more flexible, President Mnangagwa is arguably more pragmatic than Mr Mugabe. He is said to have recently held secret talks with opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai, although we are not able to confirm that meeting independently.

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While it is still far from certain that he would be open to a widely mooted government of national unity, as he has appointed his cabinet which many disagrees but he has made two changes already but he maintain his good relationship with the military who are instrumental to removing Mugabe from office.

For President Mnangagwa, a key concern - by most accounts is showing the international community that his country is stable, in order to secure investment in the economy.

President Mnangagwa has a good reputation in the business sector, and he has tried to protect productive farms operated by white farmers during the controversial land reform programme.

President Mnangagwa served as acting finance minister between 1995-1996, during a period of relative economic stability.

He said in an interview last year that “capital goes where it feels comfortable and warm, and if it’s cold it runs to a country which gives it better weather”.

That seems to have been a reference to the dire state of Zimbabwe’s economy, and what it might take to turn it around following years of sanctions imposed after the seizure of white-owned farms.

And in his speech after his return from exile, he said his focus would be on “jobs, jobs, jobs”. The country waits to see.....

Contribution by Lebo Diseko of BBC News

Who is Emmerson Mnangagwa?

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alled “the crocodile” because of his political shrewdness - his Zanu-PF faction was known as “Lacoste” • Received military training in China and Egypt • Tortured by Rhodesian forces after his “crocodile gang” staged attacks • Helped direct Zimbabwe’s 1970s war of independence • Became the country’s spy master during the 1980s civil conflict, in which thousands were killed • Denies any role in the massacres • Seen as key link between army, intelligence agencies and Zanu-PF • Accused of masterminding attacks on opposition supporters after 2008 election Journalist Martin Fletcher, who interviewed him last year, says Mr Mnangagwa was keen to indicate that Zimbabwe would change under his leadership.

Mr Fletcher told the press that “he wanted to signal to the West that he would be different from Mugabe, that he understood the need to restore the Zimbabwean economy. He was saying ‘we want to attract foreign investment, [and] he talked about the need for the diaspora to come back, about the need to reengage the West’”.

That is likely to mean getting rid of polices like the indigenisation laws, which required all companies - including foreign investors - to be 51% owned by indigenous, i.e black Zimbabweans.

He is also likely to address the issue of land ownership, and access to land for white farmers.

Mr Mugabe always enjoyed the support of the army, having been the political leader of the 1970s war of independence in which most of Zimbabwe’s generals fought.

But he was ultimately toppled by the military, who were even more loyal to Mr Mnangagwa.

In particular, Mr Mnangagwa is close to Army Chief, Gen

Constantino Chiwenga.

General Chiwenga, led his army chiefs to take power from Mugabe and made to resign his position as Head of State.

On his return to Harare following Mr Mugabe’s resignation, Mr Mnangagwa said that he had been “in constant contact” with security chiefs during the military takeover.

Mr Mnangagwa was a teenage fighter in the war of independence, which he went on to lead.

As national security minister during the 1980s, he cemented his ties in the military and intelligence services, which have

remained a loyal base.

It is perhaps this relationship that concerns the opposition the most.

MDC-T MP Eddie Cross told the press that “in many respects he is one of the architects of the collapse in Zimbabwe”.

“He’s certainly been involved in many of the not-so-good episodes in recent years, including the 2013 election, which he pretty much managed on his own.

“I think, for many of us, we will fear that there won’t be sufficient change”.

Whatever his faults, Mr Mugabe was undoubtedly a powerful orator, at ease whipping up a crowd, or, in the early days at least, discussing delicate diplomatic issues with world leaders.

The same cannot be said of Mr Mnangagwa.

His daughter says he is not an emotional man, while his son (a Harare DJ known as St Emmo) says: “He doesn’t say much and I think that’s what frightens people - like: ‘What is he thinking?’”

His nickname is “The Crocodile”, hardly one of nature’s most charismatic beasts.

It was originally given to him during the liberation struggle when he led the so-called “crocodile gang”.

The name was later used to refer to his political shrewdness his ability to lie low and then attack, viciously.

Is he the man to bring back hope to Zimbabweans?

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Ambassador Ngofa presentation of let

tters of credence at the Royal palace

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UNIC MULTI SERVICE, Bijlmerdreef 1127A

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Amsterdam Zuid-Oost Tel. No: 06-46056199 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.

What would you like to know? Our vision?

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.

You may have been a believer for many years already. Or you might still be searching for the meaning of life and asking yourself whether or not there is God. Within Victory Outreach Almere we would like to help you find the answer. We will gladly teach you the exact meaning of “a living faith�. With us you will truly see and experience the supernatural power of the living God. You can always count on love and comfort when you need it. You will discover that we have a wonderful diversity of people with lots of different backgrounds, characters and personalities. But there is one thing we have in common. We all follow the same God, Jesus Christ.

In that diversity and love for God we are a family where you are more than welcome.

We personally hope to meet you during one of our services.

God bless you as you come in Jesus Christ name. Amen

Pastor Roel & Ida van Rooij Senior Pastor Victory Outreach Almere. Barbeelstraat 12, 1317 PZ Almere Telephone: 036-8417007; Telephone: 036-7505571 info@voalmere.nl ...................http://www.voalmere.nl

INVITING NEW MEMBERS!!

Join Ika speaking people of Delta State every last Saturday of the month for our regular meeting where we discuss issues affecting our State of origin, homeland, future of Nigeria and our wellbeing in The Netherlands It is open to every sons and daughters of Ika Kingdom

Time: 6.30pm - 9.00pm YOU ARE ALL WELCOME. For details, Call: 06-87510616, 06-87508082, 0655516057 Address : EGOLI 9A , 1103AC, Amsterdam 21

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President Kenyatta calls for unity, optimism as he takes oath of office for the second time.....

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resident Uhuru Kenyatta took his oath of office amid thunderous cheers from thousands of Kenyans and foreign dignitaries who gathered at the Kasarani Sports Complex to witness the landmark event.

The President swore by the same bible that was used by founding President Jomo Kenyatta when Kenya attained independence.

The President, who took the oath office together with his deputy William Ruto, received a 21 gun salute from the Kenya Defence Forces as more than 60,000 people attending the event cheered.

The President first took the oath of allegiance before taking the oath of due execution of the function of the office of the President.

After taking the oaths, which was presided over by Chief Justice David Maraga and administered by the Chief Registrar of the Judiciary Anne Amadi, the President appended his signature on the two documents together with the certificate of inauguration.

The President’s swearing in was followed by that of the Deputy President who was greeted with chants of “2022” by the cheering Kenyans.

After the official swearing in ceremony, President Kenyatta read a speech whose theme was unity and optimism. The speech also included the President’s vision for the next five years. “The path to a better future is unity. I believe that we can build a nation in which we live in peace with our brothers and sisters — whatever part of the country they come from, whichever way we worship God, whatever language we speak,” said the President. “Instead of division, I know that we can build a Kenya which prospers by rewarding hard work, and leaving no one behind.”

He urged Kenyans to free themselves from the grievances of the past and to obey the law as they work hard to build a united, stable, and prosperous nation.

He said the law must reign supreme and must be the refuge for all no matter the grievance.

The President said his administration has more than once demonstrated its readiness to live by the law.

He said despite serious misgivings about the process, he and his deputy complied with the International Criminal Court.

The President said he also complied when the Supreme Court invalidated his clear victory in the August election, with an argument that processes mattered more than votes.

“This Administration has demonstrated by its actions, its readiness to live and lead by the rule of law. By extension, we expect nothing less from each and every citizen,” said the

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President.

He said his government will continue respecting ethnic, cultural and religious diversity; and that Kenyans will continue living in peace and unity as one indivisible sovereign nation.

“I undertake to be the custodian of the dreams of all, and to be the keeper of the aspirations of those who voted for me and those who did not. I will be the President of all. And I will devote my time and energy to build bridges to unite and bring prosperity to all Kenyans,” said the President.

The President said his swearing in marks the end of the longest electioneering period in Kenya during which the resilience of Government institutions have been tested to the limit.

He said the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, the courts and the security agencies were stretched, some almost to breaking point, by the cut and thrust of politics during the last four months.

He said Kenyan institutions have proved to be more resilient than was thought before.

“Today, we are a people who can tell the world that we live under a robust constitutional order; and that our constitution is no piece of paper, but rather the living expression of our desire to live under the rule of law,” said the President.

He said there is room for improvement in the organs of government that serve Kenyans but cautioned against attempts by some section of leaders to destroy institutions every time they do not deliver their wishes.

In his speech the President pointed out four issues that have been achieved over the last four years that make him proud.

The first is devolution which has turned every county into a centre of economic development.

The ceremony was attended by Heads of State including the President of Zambia Edgar Lungu Somalia President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo, the President of Namibia Hage Geingob, Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, South Sudan President Salva Kiir, the President of Botswana Seretse Khama, Djibouti President Ismail Omar Guelle and South Sudan President Salva kiir.

The Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu is also among the Heads of State who jetted into the country to celebrate the President’s swearing in for his final term in office.

Other dignitaries included the Prime Minister of Togo Mamadi Youla, Gaston Sindimwo, First Vice President of Burundi, Swaziland Prime Minister Barnabas Sibusiso Dlamini, Vice President of Nigeria Yemi Osinbajo, Tanzania Vice President Salma Hassan, former Zambia President Rubia Banda, former South Africa President Thabo Mbeki.

Uhuru Kenyatta second term inauguration

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Disgraced former First Lady: Grace Mugabe: She got power drunk!

imbabwe’s former first lady Grace Mugabe, a polarising figure, had for years been positioning herself as a potential successor to her 93-year-old husband Robert as president.

Once a quiet figure known for her shopping and her charity work, she became more highprofile in the ruling Zanu-PF party as the head of its women’s league. She was instrumental in the ousting of several alternative potential successors to her husband’s presidency.

However, she did not get the better of her main rival, former Vice-President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

The former president accused him of disloyalty and sacked him in early November 2017, but the subsequent chain of events undermined both the former president and former first lady.

Members of the military seized state TV and put Mr Mugabe under house arrest.

Mr Mnangagwa was appointed leader of ZanuPF on 19 November he was eventually install as

husband - earlier this year she memorably said that he could even win votes as a corpse. She has not denied wanting to take the helm of the country, and at a 2014 rally she said: “They say

President u n t i l the next elections.

Dramatic turn of events for 52 years old Mrs Mugabe who is four decades younger than her 93-year-old husband, once the world’s oldest ruler, who governed Zimbabwe from the end of whiteminority rule in 1980 till his resignation was announced in November 2017.

Mrs Mugabe has always been a staunch supporter of her

I want to be president. Why not? Am I not a Zimbabwean?”

• Began affair with Robert Mugabe, 41 years her senior, while working as a typist in the state house • Mr Mugabe was still married to his first wife, Sally, who was terminally ill at the time • Married Mr Mugabe, her second husband, in 1996 in an extravagant ceremony.

• They have three children - Bona, Robert and Chatunga • Nicknamed “Gucci Grace” by her critics who accuse her of lavish spending • Named head of Zanu-PF women’s league in 2014, had been tipped to be named vice-president in December • Accused of assaulting a model in South Africa in 2017 Political opponents had warned against a dynasty taking shape, and Mrs Mugabe was criticised for seeking to use her diplomatic immunity when accused of assaulting a 20-yearold South African model with an electrical plug. This was not the first time she had been accused of physical assault.

Along with her husband, Mrs Mugabe is subject to EU and US sanctions, including travel bans, imposed over the seizure of land and accusations of rigged elections and crackdowns on political opposition.

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The rise & fall of Grace Mugabe

Former President Mugabe began wooing Grace Marufu while she was working as a young typist in the country’s state house. The two began an affair while he was married to his terminally ill first wife, Sally.

“He came to me and started asking about my family,” she said in a

rare interview about their first encounter in the late 1980s.

“I looked at him as a father figure. I did not think he would at all look at me and say: ‘I like that girl.’ I least expected that.”

Mr Mugabe has said Sally did give her consent to the union before she died in 1992 - though he did not marry Grace until four years later.

The couple have three children: Bona, Robert and Chatunga.

Occasionally referred to as “Gucci Grace”, Mrs Mugabe has been criticised by some for an alleged appetite for extravagant shopping.

The former first family has vast properties, businesses and farms dotted around the country, mainly in the rich western and northern Mashonaland provinces.

Over the years, Mrs Mugabe has attempted to grow herself into a powerful businesswoman and sees herself as a philanthropist, founding an orphanage on a farm just outside the capital, Harare, with the help of Chinese funding.

She controversially earned a PhD in Sociology from the University of Zimbabwe in just two months in 2014, although her thesis, unlike those of other students, was never filed and has never been made available.

Nevertheless, her doctorate title was used on campaign material as she prepared to take over the leadership of the Zanu-PF women’s wing.

Since becoming more active in politics, she has become known for her sharp tongue and tough reputation. Pulling no punches while attacking political opponents, Mrs Mugabe often fiercely defends her husband.

She has been accused of washing the ruling party’s dirty linen in public by calling on people to resign or apologise.

Grace vs her husband’s deputies Mrs Mugabe spearheaded the ousting of a former ally, then-VicePresident Joice Mujuru, in 2014.

She said the vice-president should be sacked from government because she was “corrupt, an extortionist, incompetent, a gossiper, a liar and ungrateful”, and accused her of collaborating with opposition forces and white people to undermine the country’s post-independence gains.

A few months later, Mrs Mujuru was expelled from Zanu-PF. She remains a leader of the opposition National People’s Party (NPP) and is spearheading a People’s Rainbow Coalition (PRC), where she urged people to register to vote to prevent the perpetual rule of Mr Mugabe and his wife.

The new vice-president was Mr Mnangagwa, a former justice minister who Mrs Mugabe had called “loyal and disciplined”. But by 2017, Mrs Mugabe was publicly calling on her husband to remove Mr Mnangagwa. She suggested that his supporters were planning a coup.

When he fell ill at a rally and had to be airlifted out of the country for treatment, his supporters blamed poison administered through ice cream from Mrs Mugabe’s dairy farm, a suggestion she denied.

He later said he had been poisoned, but it was “false and malicious” to suggest it was at the hands of the former first lady.

She fell to the power of her own policies of divide and rule. www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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Africa’s ‘City of Innovation’ to Host Conference on ‘Uniting Africa’ Next year Rwanda, one of Africa’s most technologically ambitious countries, will take over the Chairmanship of the African Union. It will also play host to eLearning Africa and the organisers are predicting that it will be the biggest conference in the event’s 13-year history. They believe it could play a significant role in pushing forward the African Union’s 2063 Agenda.

The conference, which is being jointly organised by ICWE GmbH and the Rwanda Convention Bureau under the patronage of the Rwandan Government, usually attracts well over 1,000 participants from all over the world. They are not only teachers, academics and learning experts, but political leaders, policy makers, investors, technologists, business leaders and entrepreneurs too. The conference is also the occasion for an annual round table meeting of African education and technology ministers.

In Rwanda, participants in eLearning Africa will have a chance to see for themselves the achievements of an

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African Government, which has set about using technology to transform education. In 2014, the Government signed an agreement to incorporate information and communication technology into the country’s schools and colleges. The benefits of “a new system of teaching that emphasises the use of computers and internet to impart knowledge” are already starting to be felt across the country. And now the Government is confident that by 2020 all schools in the country will have at least two smart classrooms and all subjects will have been digitised. eLearning Africa 2018 will take place from 26 - 28 September in Rwanda’s capital city, Kigali, which has gained a reputation for its ICT-based initiatives in a variety of sectors. So great is its apparent enthusiasm for new technological solutions that some observers have referred to it as the “Innovation City of Africa.”

In addition to its technological prowess, Kigali is also one of Africa’s most attractive cities - eLearning Africa participants will be able to take advantage of its bustling streets, ridges, valleys, and lush hillsides, not to mention Rwanda’s world renowned Gorilla trekking tours, only a short journey away.

“It is wonderful that Rwanda is now setting a real example for other countries in technology-assisted learning and hosting a conference whose theme is „Uniting Africa“, says conference organiser, Rebecca Stromeyer. „I am confident that eLearning Africa 2018 in Rwanda will be the biggest and most exciting eLA yet.”

Under the overall theme of „Uniting Africa,“ conference participants will discuss how the benefits of technology can be shared and help to improve education across Africa, making a reality of the African Union’s 2063 Vision of a “transformed continent.” A call for papers has been issued and will remain open until 30 January 2018. The organisers are looking for contributions on subjects including “creating opportunities through education,” “boosting competitiveness and ICT-centric growth,” “matching skills demand and supply,” and “overcoming barriers.” eLearning Africa 2018 - 13th International Conference on ICT for Development, Education and Skills When: September 26 – 28, 2018 Where: Kigali Convention Centre, Kigali, Rwanda Contact: ICWE GmbH, Ms Rebecca Stromeyer, info@elearningafrica.com, www.eLearning-africa.com, Tel.: +49 (0)30 310 18 18-0

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Jeffangs Beauty

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We have sections for all beauty and body care products for men and women at Jeffangs Beauty Supply & Salon in Rotterdam We offer you the latest hair and skin products with fantastic prices.......

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PureCare Sal

Looking for a classic place for your Hair do (For a Woman or a Man)?

Look no further than PURECARE Salon in Almere Buiten We offer the latest hair and skin products and our services are world class.

YOU ARE WELCOME & HAPPY NEW YEAR 2018 !!!!

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lon & Shop Wimper extentions stylist • Mary Kay Consultant • Skin and hair analysis with digital microscope • For appointments Only: 0686495901 •

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Contact: Reykjavikstraat 13 1334KG, Almere Buiten Centrum Near Trekpleister E-mail:info@purecare.nl Tel: +31(0)36-5212618 www.purecare.nl Opening times: Monday: 1.00pm – 6.00pm Tuesday: 9.30am – 6.00pm Wednesday: 9.30am- 6.00pm Thursday: 9.30am – 6.00pm Friday: 9.30am – 6.00pm Saturday: 9.30am – 6.00pm

P U R E C A R E www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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The Voice Achievers

s Award 2017 recap....

The Voice Achievers Award 2017: 27 personalities honoured in Amsterdam.

The Voice Achievers’ Award 2017 have come and gone but the resonance of the celebration will linger and remain fresh in all. Twenty seven (27) awardees were celebrated this year in Amsterdam at a grandiose and splendid ceremony reflecting heritage, dedication, serenity, beauty, unlimited open attitude, elegance and many more that Africa stands for. It was an emotional moment for some of the awardees as many of them could not hold back tears of joy. However, they were full of appreciation and praises to the platform and organizers of the award. The colourful evening also featured a panel of discussants brainstorming on the challenges confronting Africa’s development and made several recommendations on how best to move Africa forward. The conclusion was that Africans need to take the lead in reinventing the future of Africa before others can join to support.

With over flowing number of guests at the venue, the award ceremony kicked off, honouring the First Lady of Republic of Rwanda, Her Excellency, Mrs. Jeannette Kagame with the African “Woman Personality of the year” and “African Heroine” Award. Below is the list of recipients of the prestigious award.

1.

Her Excellency, Mrs. Jeannette Kagame, First Lady of the Republic of Rwanda African Woman Personality of the year & African Heroine Award 2.

Dr. Adewunmi Rafiu Alayaki Goodwill Ambassador 3.

Ambassador Emad Tariq Al Janabi African Personality Award 4.

Ambassador Laila Rahhall El Atfani African Humanitarian Award 5.

Your Excellency, Ambassador Mirjam Blaak Sow Ambassador of Uganda to the Benelux countries and the EU Outstanding African Ambassador Award 6.

Sarah Mbeti Karingi African Business Excellence Award 7.

Bishop Bernard Owusu-Ansah Spiritual Leadership Award 8.

Marion Van de Voort African Foundation Award 9.

Irene Agyeman Hin African Entrepreneurship Award 10.

Bakarr King Conteh African Entertainment Promoter Award 11.

Taiwo Courage Obude (Djbudetee) Outstanding African DJ Award 12.

Faith Phay Mutepa African Media Award 13.

Annette Nobuntu Mul African Special Recognition Award

14.

Deaconess Agartha Frimpong African Community Figure Award 15.

Elvis Ediagbonya African Gospel Music Award 16.

Jorna Fatoumata Saho African Fashion Designer Award 17.

Mr. Ugo Hilary African Entrepreneurship Award 18.

Irene Lelieveld African Community Service Award 19.

Nana Schmidt African Motivational Award

20.

Dr. Max Ese Anderson Diaspora Man of the Year 21.

Princess Janet Abegunde Diaspora Woman of the Year Award 22.

Buumba Malambo African Image Maker Award 23.

Ufuoma Okonoko African Acting Award 24.

Yasmine Allas African Writer Award 25.

Mr. Ifeanyi Kenny Okolo Goodwill Ambassador 26.

Comrade Sunny Ofehe Political Figure Award 27.

Sidney Mutueel African Diaspora Community Award The Rwandan Ambassador to The Netherlands, His Excellency, Ambassador Jean Pierre Karabaranga held sway for the First lady and expressed her joy for the recognition and her renewed commitment to continue to serve her country, Rwanda, the African continent and the humanity in general.

The publisher of The Voice magazine, Pastor Elvis Iruh emphasized the importance of the award platform saying that it rejuvenates more zeal on the awardees to continue to serve humanity. He announced the schedule for 2018 award which will take place on 26th October 2018. He further stated that award for 2018 will be celebrated in Dubai, United Arab Emirate, because a memorandum of understanding was signed between Ambassador Laila Al Rahhall Alftani, the founder of a Dubai based Company, Business gate. Further briefings on 2018 award will be communicated to the public at the beginning of 2018.

The organizers are thankful to all the awardees that attended the award ceremony in Amsterdam. Photos used for this publication are courtesy of TRT Media, Fatai Badmus & Johnson photos.....

TV Management

EVENTS LISTING, INVITATION AND TICKETING WEBSITE DEBUTS A new website designed for event organisers and users has launched. Inviterite is the next-generation platform intended to assist event organisers with the creation of stunning listings and sending email invitations to the attendees at the press of a button.

Public, private and business events can all be listed, as well as sending bespoke invitation notes and sale of tickets. All these are built in to the platform, complemented by a user-friendly and aesthetically-pleasing 3-step process with features that are easy to navigate.

Inviterite aims to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with existing providers of service in this sector, by creating a niche market with added values and a platform that is backed by a vibrant digital media and marketing outlet. It will consistently improve upon both the mechanisms and dynamics of its operations without disruption to the users.

Franklyn Frantos, Co-Founder of Feferity Media Group Limited, owners of Inviterite said: “We have in Inviterite an all-encompassing event listing, invitation and ticketing portal where no facet of celebration or social activities are ignored. Grand celebrations, small group private events, formal ceremonies and social get-togethers are all allowed on our platform. Users of this website will be treated warmly as clients, and not just as some obscure website visitors logged on somewhere. This way, we aim to build a community of client-users who will have at their disposal functional data sets built up from constant patronage and which can then be used to assist in planning future events.”

We also have a vast understanding of the nuances of events organising among the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) groups. These would be brought to the fore and used to the fullest advantage to ensure events are completed to perfection.

Inviterite will massively deploy social networking media promos for more visibility of users’ events prior to its holding.

What’s more, we are allowing users free access to this platform, so no commissions or charges are incurred whether organisers list free-of-fees or fee-based events.

Event organisers are enjoined to register on our platform and upload current and future events. It doesn’t matter if they are listed elsewhere already. It would simply increase the events’ visibility.

Visit https://inviterite.co.uk to register and use this exciting new service. And, remember.... it’s FREE! -EndsNotes to editors * Inviterite is the first event listing website designed to consider, specifically Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) groups in its provisions. * The portal has both the capability and the resources to fully engage the vast array of social and formal events, specific to these groups, thereby making the most success of events listed on the site. * The services are being provided free as neither fee nor commission is charged for the usage. * Inviterite is powered by Feferity Media Group Ltd, a consolidated media outfit, publishers of Feferity magazine (online/ digital and print editions). The online edition is due to go live early in October while the preview (print) edition will be on the newsstand 1st week in December. * Feferity will offer event organisers who use Inviterite the requisite pre-and post-event media support to make their events exceed expectations in terms of success.

(Public, Private and Business Event Listings, Invitation & Tickets) Feferity Media Group Ltd Kemp House, 160 City Road, London EC1V 2NX United Kingdom Tel: 03330 110 781 Web: inviterite.co.uk Facebook: Inviterite; Twitter: @inviteriteuk Pinterest: Inviterite; LinkedIn: Inviterite

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AU, EU & UN agrees to work together to end modern day slavery in Libya.....

T

he African Union, the European Union and the United Nations have agreed to establish a joint task force to tackle the scourge of modern slavery which has been revealed by video images of African migrants being auctioned as slaves in Libya.

Slavery has emerged as the dominant topic at the African Union-European Union summit which started in Abidjan on Wednesday. At the opening ceremony every single leader condemned the practice. It has become an emblem of the wider issue of African migration to Europe which was already one of the main themes of the summit and of Africa-Europe relations in general, according to Daily Maverick.

The AU announced that United Nations Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, President of the European Commission, Jean-Claude Juncker, and the EU’s High Representative/Vice President Federica Mogherini, had met on the margins of the summit and agreed to form a joint EU-AU-UN Task Force to save and protect lives of migrants and refugees along the migratory routes and in particular inside Libya.

It would address ways of accelerating the assisted voluntary return of migrants to their home countries and the resettlement

of those in need of international protection.

The task force would build on, expand and accelerate the ongoing work done by countries of origin, and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), a UN agency, with EU funding, which had enabled the voluntary return to their countries of origin of 13,000 migrants since January.

“The work of the Task Force will be closely co-ordinated with the Libyan authorities and be part of the overall joint work

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that the African Union, the European Union and the United Nations will intensify to dismantle traffickers and criminal networks and to offer opportunities of development and stability to countries of origin and transit, tackling root causes of migration,” the AU said.

“The United Nations, the African Union and the European Union agreed to upgrade in a systematic manner their trilateral co-operation and to meet on a regular basis at the highest political level, notably in the margins of the UN General Assembly.”

President Jacob Zuma joined many other leaders at the summit in condemning the slavery in Libya, at the summit.

He called for the international community to strongly support the Libyan government in its addressing of slavery.

However, the Libyan government itself has been criticised for attempting to play down the issue and calling for a summit declaration which condemns modern slavery in general without mentioning Libya.

It was not clear yet on Thursday what the wording would eventually be.

AU Commission chair Moussa Faki said the international community had to find a solution to the root causes of this “degrading” and “humiliating” phenomenon. He had earlier urged swift action to identify all perpetrators and accomplices and had welcomed the Libyan government’s announcement that it would investigate the auctions. He had also urged Libya to improve the conditions of African migrants on its territory.

Faki also asked the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights urgently to launch an investigation and said he would dispatch an envoy to Libya to agree on practical steps in support of the measures announced by the Libyan authorities and to submit its conclusions as soon as possible to ensure timely follow-up and action.

The Chairperson of the commission also intends to dispatch an envoy to Libya for consultations with the government of Libya and other stakeholders, to agree on practical steps in support of efforts to address the plight of the African migrants in Libya.

President of the European Council Donald Tusk said about the migration and slavery reports in Libya that “the worst we can do is to start the blame game. What we need now are common solutions to allow people to live in dignity. Libya needs help from AU and EU, not condemnation.”

Tusk’s remarks about avoiding the blame game appear to allude to the criticism among many African governments that the EU is partly to blame for the slavery because it is sending many African migrants back home and exposing them to exploitation.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres also took a positive approach, saying the Libyan slave auctions presented a challenge to enhanced co-operation in the international community. All countries were entitled to manage borders in a responsible and sovereign manner, but also had an obligation to mind international humanitarian law.

He also acknowledged that the two continents would be unable to manage the flow of irregular migration unless they increased the flow of orderly – legal – migration from Africa to Europe.

The slavery controversy is a dramatic and extreme manifestation of the wider problem of illegal migration which has bedeviled relations between the two continents for the last few years. Libya has become the epicenter of this issue because the country fell into chaos and lawlessness after President Muammar Gaddafi was toppled by rebels – with the help of Nato-led military forces.

Since then the country has become a launching pad for tens of thousands of Africans to attempt the crossing to Europe across the Mediterranean, often in unseaworthy boats. Thousands have drowned.

The draft declaration which is to be adopted at the summit on Thursday commits both continents to greater co-operation towards “safe, orderly and regular” migration, including “strong political commitments to address the root causes of irregular migration… while respecting international law and human rights obligations… to maximise the development

potential for both Africa and Europe.”

The declaration also stresses that more needs to be done to increase regular (legal) migration, including labour migration and greater migration of entrepreneurs, students and researchers.

However, officials from both sides at first struggled to agree on acceptable wording on the return of illegal African migrants from Europe. The EU has a programme which it says has returned in total about 25,000 Africans who are in “difficult situations” in Europe, including packages to reintegrate them into their home countries.

However, the draft declaration which emerged from a meeting of officials from both sides suggested that the two continents had not initially managed to reach agreement on whether or not this repatriation of illegal migrants should be voluntary.

Ministers from both sides seemed to have resolved the issue as the AU statement on the mandate of the joint UN-EU-AU task force made clear that repatriations would be voluntary.

Daily Maverick DM Photo: French President Emmanuel Macron (2-L) and Mohammed VI (C), the King of Morocco speak ahead of a family picture at the 5th African UnionEuropean Union (AU-EU) summit in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, 29 November 2017. The summit aims to improve cooperation on issues such as migration and development. EPA-EFE/ BALLESTEROS

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CONGRATULATIONS! Chief Mrs. Patience Odeh Gerrits

Congratulations my darling wife,

Patience Odeh Gerrits Signed: Jan Gerrits Husband on behalf of our family

Aids Fight in Africa As the world celebrates World Aids Day, its prudent to review the fight against the scourge. Since the start of 21st Century, HIV/Aids has increasingly been labelled as an “African disease”.

The specter of HIV/Aids whenever mentioned invariably points in the direction of Africa probably because of prohibitive, almost unbelievable statistics on HIV/Aids.

According to UNAIDS, since the epidemic began, more than 60 million people have been infected with the virus.

It is the fourth biggest killer worldwide with estimates of 28.1 million infected souls in Africa. If we believe the figures provided by Unaids, the UN organisation that has assumed a hegemonic role with regards to HIV/Aids, then it will impact significantly on our socio-economic development and poverty alleviation. The epidemic feeds on existing economic and social problems and unleashes untold misery on millions of lives.

Africa entered the “HIV/Aids war” late. Nevertheless, by the end of the 20th Century, it had assumed control of the proceedings. The first HIV/Aids cases were identified among homosexuals in the United States in 1981. It was believed myopically as a ‘Western disease’ and throughout the 1980s, Africa stayed relatively quiet and a mere spectator while the “HIV/Aids war” raged on. The epidemic took a U-turn in the 1990s when suddenly, Aids became a “clear and present danger” to a majority of African nations south of the Sahara.

By the time the 11th International Conference on Aids and STDs in Africa was launched in 1999, the World Bank was already claiming that the damage Aids had done, was incalculable, but mostly blamed on lack of political will on the part of African governments. Political will, another of those illusive words that often emanates from Western knowledge of development problems, has become a buzzword of the 21st Century. The Joint United Nations Programme on Aids has as its “holy creed”; the imperative of strong political will backed by concerted multi-sectoral effort as representing a panacea for HIV prevention in Africa.

However, the concern here has often been a stance of denial or alternatively, official acknowledgment of the need for an Aids policy coupled with a persistent failure to accept the depth of the crisis, much less to follow through on construction of a comprehensive policy. It is as if, having officially conceded the presence of HIV/Aids, governments then go about their business-fighting wars briefly put, Africa’s response to the HIV/Aids pandemic has been phlegmatic.

However, one cannot ignore the dynamics of political economy and poverty of this problem on this continent. While there is no shortage of academic texts on the poverty of political will and democratic governance in Africa, the question is: Does the failure of political will matter? The answer is yes and no.

Yes, because it is governments that must formulate national plans, manage large-scale programmes and coordinate efforts of NGOs and CBOs to make responses to HIV effective. There exists the need for governments to take charge of providing

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basic needs, which ensures a decent living standard crucial for preventive campaigns. Yet, this has to be considered in context.

Africa entered the 21st Century financially indebted, technologically backward, poor and the only continent experiencing negative economic growth. Under such distressing climate and the already limited role of the state as a result of Structural Adjustment Policies imposed by the IMF/World Bank, it seems almost impossible to shoulder the onus of responsibility expected when it comes to HIV/Aids.

This can be likened to the analogy of, “the soul is willing, but the body is weak”. Thus the validity and efficacy of such an approach is not without its critics.

Political will is but one part of a giant HIV jigsaw puzzle, but often the other parts of the jigsaw puzzle become ‘sacred cows’ that cannot be slaughtered only left out in the analysis of Africa. Yet to understand the problem, we cannot discount the importance that debt servicing and its attendant problems pose to the governments. The debt problems have a historical setting and are entrenched in global market forces unleashed by the so-called “Washington consensus”. Political will is important, but we must not forget that majority of countries faced with HIV/Aids threats are ill equipped due to poor economies, poverty and malnutrition which are deeply embedded in the dynamics of international political economy.

Therefore, the hypocrisy of donors must be called into question given their articulation of the huge gap in funding measures to combat the Aids crisis compared to the relatively paucity of their own contributions and the tendency for what is offered to be bound up in conditionalities, which merely exacerbate the situation. Debt is a drain on the ability of countries to direct resources to health needs.

Our Debt servicing is nearly 5 per cent of GDP, 15 per cent of export revenue. If 50 per cent of debt were cancelled, the funds would be used to mitigate HIV/Aids effects.

Therefore, debt relief offers a window of hope to rehabilitate infrastructure for the delivery of both HIV/Aids prevention and mitigation in Africa where poverty creates a conducive environment for its spread. The increasing financial insecurity and vulnerability that poverty breeds and exists in many female-headed households makes “transactional” sex a “rational” means of making ends meet. Women entrenched in poverty are limited in their ability to make healthy choices when it comes to adopting prevention methods. While most prevention campaigns are premised on an equal distribution of power in sexual relationships, the reality is that low economic and social status of women in most parts of Africa implies that even when women have the intention and self-efficacy to adopt the use of condoms in sexual activities for instance, they cannot because it is men who hold the economic and social power.

Mr Okwaro is an analyst with Gravio Africa.

The Monitor

The Voice Achievers Award 2018 goes to Dubai...

Plans are on the way to have The Voice Achievers Award 2018 held in Dubai, United Arab Emirate. After an impressive turn of events in Amsterdam, one of the awardees and a new Vice-President for The Voice Foundation covering Arab countries, Ambassador Laila Rahhall EL Aftani told the audience she would do her best to ensure that the Voice magazine and its project – The Voice Achievers award gets more prominence in the Arab world.

Under the umbrella of the African Arab league; the Voice magazine signed a partnership deal with Ambassador Laila EL Aftani before she left Amsterdam to open an office in Dubai and start working towards the next year’s award event in Dubai.

The date was agree upon as 26th October 2018. The theme was also agreed upon- Arts of Africa- a celebration of Arts and Fashion in collaboration with the Voice Achievers Award ceremony. For the first time, all past awardees of The Voice Achievers Award is expected to attend and be inducted into a Hall of Fame for the Voice Achievers Award.

The details and the modalities will be worked out in the next few months and the details released to the public to start preparation.

The contract was signed by President Elvis Iruh on behalf of the Award committee while Ambassador Laila Rahhall EL Aftani signed on behalf of Ambassador Emad Tariq Al Janabi, the President of the African Arab League, to witness the signing was Ambassador Dr. Adewunmi Alayaki, the Executive Director of Hope Hospitals in Nigeria.

Expectation for 2018 awards includes introduction and induction of past awardees, decoration of The Voice Achievers Awardees with their prestigious PIN; recognizing The Voice Ambassadors and introducing Ambassadorial ID Card with photo of honoraries Theme: Art of Africa - Arts of Africa & African Fashion show - Charity/board room dinner/dance - Bridge between 2 cultures – Africa/Arab - Truly exciting times ahead and we look forward to having this great event outside of the Netherlands for the first time in 2018. If you want to be part of this great event, in box us at info@thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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Special appreciation to our panelist for 2017 The Voice Achievers award discussion on the theme- Reinventing Africa’s future now.

Abeka Salmin Abdallah - Moderator Abeka is a video Journalist who is passionate about documenting and telling the true story that lies behind the scenes. With over 10 years experience in Media coverage, Abeka has traveled extensively in Africa and Europe as Video Journalist, Producer, and Editor.

His previous work experience includes developing content, producing films and documentaries with different organizations, companies and international media houses such as ICRC Kenya, Human Right watch, FAO Africa Regional Office, ICIPE, World Vision Tanzania, Oracle Kenya, European Union, CNN, BBC, Al-Jazeera, Associated Press and EBS. He is the founder of Moving Mind Europe Communication. ***** 1. Profile of Babah Tarawally Babah Tarawally is a journalist and a writer. After fleeing Sierra Leonean civil war, he moved to The Netherlands 19 years ago where he spent the first seven years in asylum procedures.

Babah Tarawally began working for independent media outlets in Africa, contributing stories and columns to several newspapers and magazines. At the same time, he worked for Free Voice (now called Free Press Unlimited), a Dutch organization that supports press freedom in Africa, Asia and Latin America. He worked for Free Voice from 2004-2010 as the project officer for Africa. In 2011, he worked as the Program Coordinator for Winternachten-Writers Unlimited Festival, Dutch biggest international literature festival. His novel ‘De god met de blauwe ogen’(The blue eye god) was published in 2010 by KIT publishers. Babah Tarawally is presently working as a freelance journalist and his second novel ‘The missing Hand.’ (De Verloren Hand) came out last year. He is presently working as a trainer for New Dutch Connections. He works with young refugees, mostly minors, who have come to the

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Netherlands especially from Syria, Eritrea and Somalia. He helps them to discover and exploit their talents. He teaches them to see themselves not as refugees but as expats, in order to normalize their relationships with the Dutch population and not to be constantly reduced to this status of ‘refugees’.

He wants them to define themselves as musicians, carpenters, journalists first and not as refugees.

2. Lydia Tett Olet Lydia Tett Olet is a Kenyan who resides in the United Kingdom.

She is the founder of Malaika Dance Unique. She founded the Company in 2008, having worked and gained experiences and skills in a wide range of performing arts organizations both in Kenya and abroad.

Malaika Dance Unique (MDU) provides creative educational and entertainment activity in schools and communities with the aim of promoting and creating awareness of African culture to the main stream in United Kingdom.

Lydia Tett Olet is also involved with TY Moore Concept Productions and Steve Nash Productions in acting, writing, making and producing movies in London.

Malaika Dance Unique has produced the first ever theatre play “The Darkest Hours of Victory”, being shown in Britain.

She has completed her first movie captivated with TY Moore Concept which took her afar to Nigeria where the movie was chosen to be premièred. Her second movie titled 69 (Yoruba Movie) was premiered in London. She is working on her 3rd Movie/TV Series titled Apostle Do Good. She is the Assistant Director and Presenter for royalgreenwich on line TV. Lydia Tett Olet has received several awards for her philanthropic works in Africa and in United Kingdom ****** 3. Comrade Sunny Oghale Ofehe Comrade Sunny Ofehe is an environmentalist, a human rights activist, a businessman, publisher and politician. He cuts across the divide of interest in society but his major interest is to see the advancement of his country Nigeria, progressing to a stronger and stable country among the League of Nations around the world.

Comrade Sunny Oghale Ofehe was born on 1st of February 1972 in Lagos, Nigeria.

Comrade Ofehe had his early education at Ogelle Primary School Ughelli. He proceeded to Unity School Agbarho for his Secondary education and graduated in 1988. Comrade Ofehe studied Industrial Chemistry at the University of Benin, Benin City and graduated in 1995. Apart from being an activist, he is a motivational speaker who has advised many Diasporans on how they can avoid criminalities but use their potentials to earn respect and dignity. His latest project is to become the Governor of Delta State of Nigeria in 2019.

He has launched his interest and campaign under the umbrella of the ruling party in Nigeria, APC. Comrade Sunny Ofehe is married to former Ms Dorothy Faluy and they are blessed with four boys. **** 4. Laila El Atfani Rahhall Laila El Atfani Rahhall is a business woman of Middle East/ North Africa origin, resident in Dubai in United Arab Emirate.

She is being recognized for her involvement in promoting businesses in the Middle East but as well as in African. She is a Goodwill Ambassador for many charitable organizations around the world because of her firm involvement in humanity works.

She is very versatile and a skilled communicator in English, French, Spanish, Turks and Arabic languages.

She is a gateway to many African/Arab businesses around the world.

Laila El Atfani Rahhall is a Special Advisor to the President of Arab African Council for Integration and Development (AACID) and Director of International relations and diplomacy of the same organization. She runs her own business at Businessgate.org. She is also the owner of Macan FUEL and petroleum product trading and the Vice President of Diva Production Company in United States of America.

She is also a publisher with interest in magazine, exposing the vast business opportunities in the Arab world to Africa. ***** 5. Cecilia Eben Bleeker Cecilia Eben Bleeker is a 39 year Cameroonian, resident in The Netherlands.

She is very focused, determined, positive and committed to all her activities to advance the development of her country, Cameroon and her fellow Africans. She is a mother of two sons, a wife and the founder of the Bleeker Foundation. Between

October 2015 to October 2017, she was a board member/ project coordinator of the Dutch Soroptimist club (Hoorn) and works as a Clinical Research Associate (CRA) in the pharmaceutical industry in the Netherlands.

She came to the Netherlands 17 years ago and has against all odds, fully integrated into the Dutch society. She holds a BScN RN diploma, from the University of Applied Sciences Amsterdam and an MSc Certificate in Evidence based Practice Concepts from the University of Amsterdam. She is fluent in English, Dutch and French. She is an exceptional role model to emulate.

Bleeker Foundation is a non-profit organization that focuses on transforming the lives of teenage mothers in Cameroon and educating teenagers to fight teenage pregnancy among thereby ensuring a better future for the Cameroonian girls.

Bleeker Foundation provides sexual and reproductive health education, scholarships for vocational training and microloans. For more details on their 2016 scholarships, please visit www.bleekerfoundation.org **** 6. Josh Maiyo Josh Maiyo was a political and international affairs journalist in Nairobi, Kenya and Hilversum, the Netherlands before joining the University of Amsterdam to study International Relations and Politics (M.Sc. 2006), and African Studies in Leiden (M.Phil.

2008). He’ has completed his Ph.D. at the Vrie University Amsterdam’s department of Social and Cultural Anthropology on the topics of trans-national land deals, agrarian change, and rural development in Uganda.

Josh Maiyo is also a non-resident research associate at the John’s Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies, China-Africa Research Institute (SAIS-CARI), an independent consultant on International Development, and a regional expert on Eastern Africa. His current research interests include Political Ecology, African Development, and China-Africa relations.

Josh Maiyo is currently based at the Vrie University Amsterdam where he is undertaking a PhD research in the NWO-WOTRO Funded research programme, ‘Development as a Trojan Horse? Large-Scale Land Acquisitions in Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar and Uganda’. His research examines the (inter)national discourses and local realities of large-scale land acquisitions in Uganda, focusing on four case studies of Chinese, Indian and Norwegian farms in central Uganda.

Before this, he was a lecturer in political Science at the University of Amsterdam where he taught and supervised courses on politics of development. He was also been a guest lecturer at The Hague University of Professional Education.

Thank you to all of these gentlemen and ladies. TV

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South Africa/ Netherlands/ USA, December 2017

Reverence for Life, the words of Albert Schweitzer, Compiled by Harold E. Robles Foreword by Roger Gamble, US Ambassador, Retired.

Publishing this book has long been the dream of compiler, Harold E. Robles, as from a young age he regarded Albert Schweitzer as his mentor and role model. ‘Selecting the words for this book from Albert Schweitzer’s oeuvre was difficult,’ Harold Robles commented, ‘as so many of his words should be published!’

Maurice Bassett noted: ‘As a publisher, I have to say I am honoured to have the opportunity to publish Reverence for Life: The Words of Albert Schweitzer. It’s a rare book which elevates our consciousness by showing us the true value of all life - all living beings - and helps us to step into a more evolved, more compassionate humanity, what humanity can be at its best. I am most grateful to Harold Robles for giving me the opportunity to be of service in releasing this book. It cannot help but to change the lives of those who read it and ultimately change our culture for the better.’

Please note: You financially support the mission of the Health Promoters when purchasing a copy of Reverence for Life, the words of Albert Schweitzer.

Reverence for Life will be available soon in hardcover, paperback, eBook and eventually also as audio book on Amazon.com ISBN paperback: 978-160025-113-9 US Dollars: 9.95 ISBN hardcover: 978-1-60025-115-3 US Dollars: 29.95 Bookstores will be able to order through the distributor

(Ingram) or directly from the publisher in Sarasota Florida/ USA.

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Sports Nigeria female Bobsled team for the Olympics Nigeria will be represented at the Winter Olympics for the first time ever, after our women’s team qualified for the Bobsled event at the 2018 Winter Games in PyeongChang.

Driver Seun Adigun and brakemen Ngozi Onwumere and Akuoma Omeoga completed the fifth of their required five qualifying races becoming the first African team, men or women, to qualify in the Bobsled category for an Olympic tournament.

In women’s Bobsled, teams are required to complete five races to qualify. The Nigeria team, led by driver Adigun - a former African 100m hurdles champion and 2012 summer

Olympian completed races in Utah, one in Whistler, and their final two races in Calgary.

“This is a huge milestone for sports in Nigeria,” driver Adigun told the press. “Nothing makes me prouder than to know that I can play a small role in creating opportunities

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for winter sports to take place in Nigeria.

“Our objective now is to be the best representation of Africa that the Winter Olympics have ever witnessed.”

Solomon Ogba, President of the Bobsled and Skeleton Federation of Nigeria, was understandably thrilled at the achievement, saying via a media statement: “I commend the personal dedication and commitment of these women.

“Their hard work was inspiring and I hope Nigerians can appreciate what it took for them to achieve this - the work, the discipline, and the personal sacrifices. They were amazing throughout this journey.

“They are all very successful people in their own right - in sports and out of it, and somehow they are still motivated and still push for more success.

“I have watched them train and work hard to represent Nigeria at the Winter Olympics in a very technical and high risk sport and they have achieved that. They should be very proud, and I am very proud of them.”

Despite much is not known about the sport in Nigeria but these three young ladies are talk of the country; Nigeria definitely have reason to watch the Winter Olympics come 2018.

No easy draw for African teams at the 2018 World Cup in Russia Five African teams were part of 32 others that were entered into a draw for the group stages of the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

The five African teams are Senegal, Egypt, Morocco, Nigeria and Tunisia.

It turns out that from the final draw, Morocco and Nigeria did not have an easy draw in their respective groups as they face top footballing sides. But for the remaining three countries, they would have to work hard to go beyond the first group stage of the tournament.

Nigeria will be facing former World Champions, Argentina.

The Super Eagles recently beat them by 4 – 2 in a friendly.

Aside Argentina, they will face Croatia and Iceland in Group D. On paper, Nigeria should be able to make it through this group alongside Argentina but no one could write off Croatia and Iceland for now.

In Group B, Morocco for their part will face current European champions Portugal and former World Champions Spain as well as the Islamic Republic of Iran. No easy match for them in this group.

Tunisia have work to do as they come up against Belgium, England and Panama in Group G. Egypt in Group A will put aside all diplomatic engagements when they come up against Saudi Arabia in the group stages.

They will also have to deal with the home fans when they face hosts Russia. The other team in the group being Uruguay.

In Group H, Senegal seems to have a quiet group as well. They will face Poland, Colombia and Japan as Sadie Mane and his charges look to do better than the Teranga Lions’ last outing.

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Joey clocks 10

t was all celebration galore as Joey Van der Pijll turned 10 on 7th November 2017. The joy of Papa & Mama knew no bound as they had all reasons to give thanks to God Almighty. With his friends at school as well as in the church at RCCG Rotterdam, the mom, Sister Liz threw a birthday bash for him and his friends.

Joey had fun as you can attest with these pictures.

Congratulations to Joey from Papa & Mama.

God bless your life richly. Amen

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Doctors of the World helps people without papers to the doctor

You are sick, but you don’t have a health insurance. What can you do? You receive a high bill from the hospital, but you don’t have papers and no health insurance. What can you do? Many migrants in the Netherlands without a residence permit don’t know that they have the right to visit the doctor for a medical consult and that their safety is guaranteed.

Everyone is entitled to medical care, with or without papers, with or without an insurance, with or without money. Doctors of the World helps people without a residence permit to gain access to healthcare because we believe that everybody, regardless of their background, is entitled to physical and mental wellbeing.

How does Doctors of the World help people without a residence permit?

1. Consultation hours in Amsterdam and The Hague We help with healthcare-related questions, such as enrollment with a General Practitioner (‘huisarts”) or midwife. We will also contact other institutions when there are any problems in your way to healthcare.

Where can you find us?

Four days a week our healthcare bus, the mobile office of Doctors of the World, runs in Amsterdam and The Hague.

On our website you can see where this bus is located and at which time. and on what day.

Website: www.doktersvandewereld.org/need-help-2/ 2. Giving group presentations at various locations (churches, mosques, community houses) about healthcare and how to get care without a residence permit Would you like to host a group presentation of Doctors of the World for your own organization and ‘followers’ ?

Please contact our Outreach coordinator Carola Leering at: 020—4652866 or 06-28444803 (Monday, Wednesday or Thursday) Email: zorgrecht@doktersvandewereld.org 3. Provide information via our telephone help-desk.

We provide information about rights and obligations and answer questions of people without a residence permit.

Healthcare providers, support organizations and other stakeholders can also make use of our help-desk service for advice on access to health care for migrants without a residence permit.

Phone helpdesk: 020-4083424 Email: zorgrecht@doktersvandewereld.org

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