South Africa Marks Freedom Day Le 13ème Prix Ahmadou Kourouma Frank Osodi: Designing for women In Style attribué à Mbarek Beyrouk brings out creativity in me

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THE VOICE OF AFRICA IN THE DIASPORA LA VOIX DE L’AFRIQUE DANS LA DIASPORA

72 HOURS BEFORE HIS DEMISE: Papa Wemba: Retirement Does Not Exist For Me

72 HEURES AVANT SA DISPARITION: Papa Wemba: “Pour moi, la retraite n’existe pas”

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Anti-gay Law Photo by www.laciudaddeportiva.com by Photo Governor Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko05

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Fax2 +41 44 776 25 63, Email: [email protected], www.africalink.ch May/June 2016

Unbenannt-2 1 14.01.15 16:26 CONTENTS ANDCONTENTS HIGHLIGHTS Editorial 4 AFRICAN LEADERS: Quit While The Ovation Is Loudest DIRIGEANTS AFRICAINS: Quitter La Scène Au Plus Fort Des Applaudissements Religion 7 When All Hope Is Gone Swissline 8 A basic income for all – the issue before Swiss voters Parlementaires de tous les pays, présentez vos fiches de salaire! Briefs 10

Celebration 12 France returns Artefact Illegally Exported page 11 South Africa Marks Freedom Day In Style Leur «naïveté» 14 Leur « naïveté » a sauvé des orphelins au Burkina Integration 16 NachbarNET Connects Neighbours for Cooperation and Mutual Benefit NachbarNET – nachbarschaftliche Hilfe und Zusammenarbeit Platform 19 Platform on Migration and Development (mdplatform) Holds Inaugural Assembly South Africa Marks Freedom Day In Style page 12 Lead 20 72 HOURS BEFORE HIS DEMISE : Papa Wemba: Retirement Does Not Exist For Me 72 HEURES AVANT SA DISPARITION: Papa Wemba: “Pour moi, la retraite n’existe pas” Economy 23 Mozambique’s Five Main Economic Objectives Book Fair 25 Le 13ème Prix Ahmadou Kourouma attribué à Mbarek Beyrouk Leur « naïveté » a sauvé Meeting 26 des orphelins au Burkina page 15 Business Leaders Take Control of Their Businesses and Move Forward Forum 28 SAF’s Dialogue With Police Yielding Fruits Meet Kenya Swiss Connection

Fashion 30 Frank Osodi: Designing for women brings out creativity in me Bantu knots make a comeback SAF’s Dialogue With Police Yielding Fruits page 28 UN News 32 AU News 34 Entertainement 36 Book Review: The Convergence of Nations Sports 37 African Woman Appointed FIFA Secretary General IAAF Mourns the Death of Renowned Distance Running Dr Woldemeskel Kostre World Anti-Doping Agency Declares Kenya Non-Compliant FATMA SAMBA DIOUF SAMOURA African Woman Appointed FIFA Secretary General page 37

May/June 2016 3 COMMENT

AFRICAN LEADERS: By George Ola Davies Quit While The Ovation Guest Contributor Mozambique has been serving as a bright exam- Is Loudest ple. The country - like Botswana, Namibia, South Let us stop fooling ourselves that Africa’s democracy has arrived. True, the Africa, Senegal and Cape Verde - has seen its presi- days of incessant military coup d’états no longer hit world news headlines. dents relinquish power at the end of their second Many of those officers who plotted and led those coups have abandoned their term in office since the death of Samoura Machel. barracks, shed their khaki uniforms for civilian garbs and are in either caf- The same could not be said for polls in the tans or suits in power. Republic of Congo, Uganda, Chad, Comoros, Equatorial Guinea and Djibouti where the in- “Democracy” for them, was the right path. But mas made it clear he will rule for only one term and cumbent leaders extended their longevity in power what sort of democracy? Tanzania’s founding father, will be attempting to change the constitution to through dubious constitutional changes to suit their Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, once said that there was make it a one-term presidency henceforth. Even as personal purpose which, inevitably, has planted a no such thing like coca cola democracy - that is this will be a huge task ahead of him, that he has seed of deep discord that may backfire when they one size suits all democracy. In essence what he committed himself to rule for only one term is a would be long gone. They fail to realise that noth- meant was that the West’s style of democracy being laudable gesture. ing would last forever. Some, like Museveni and imposed would not work in Africa. It also meant In the Central African Republic which had Obiang Nguema, have been planting their children Africa MUST fashion out its own model. Such a to eventually succeed them. model should not be devoid of certain fundamental The leadership in these countries continued to principles. But one can hardly say that with today’s tailor electoral laws making it possible for them to democracy in Africa. All those leaders be in power eternally, thus constructing a danger- Up until the time of going to press this year, that left power ous path ahead for future generations. In the case there have been presidential and parliamentary of Uganda and Congo, both leaders even ordered elections in at least six countries on the continent. honourably have the blockage of social media until their swearing in The results have been staggering ranging from very ceremonies were held. President Yoweri Museveni good to extremely distressful. played or are still of Uganda even ordered the bundling of his key op- On the positive note were those in the Republic ponent, Kizza Besigye and sent him to the farthest of Benin and the Central African Republic. For playing distinctive northern Karamoja district as he was being sworn in once, it was delightful to hear a losing candidate roles on the world for the fifth time having been in power since 1986. calling the victor to not only congratulate him This is a stack reminder of what the late King but to pledge his support to working with him stage but particularly Hassan of Morocco did when banished Abraham for the good of the country. Lionel Zinsou was Serfaty in the remote desert of Tazmamart prison the serving Prime Minister and the ruling party’s so on the continent. for eight years. Tazmamart prison was where in- candidate who enjoyed the support then outgoing mates were left to rotten and most of them were President, Thomas Boni Yayi. When he lost in the opponents of the King. When Serfaty came out second round to businessman, Patrice Talon who been embroiled in a political turmoil since 2013 after a series of international pressure he was on had hardly walked the political path, he picked up it was former Prime Minister, Faustin Archange a wheel chair. his phone, against the wish of his supporters, called Touadera that had the last laugh, albeit tinged with Denis Sassou N’guesso maneuvered his way, first up Talon and congratulated him. deep thoughts of how to get the country out of its by organizing a referendum to scrap the term limit Zinsou could have used state apparatus to rig lengthy quagmire. But at least he had the mandate in the constitution and suppressed his opponents and continued doing business as usual but thought of the people in an election that featured three as polling drew near. If in Uganda and Congo the wisely for a country which, in all truth, has been former Prime Ministers, sons of former presidents leaders had a little over 60% of the votes cast in the leading that part of the continent in its march and laced with religious bias. In the end all the first round, Equatorial Guinea’s Teodoro Obiang towards democracy. That chapter was closed, a candidates that lost to him confirmed they would Nguema Mbasogo had an even better deal. He peaceful handing over observed and the nation rally behind him and work for the progress of the trounced his “opponents” and garnered a whopping spared of bloodbath. Interestingly, President Talon beleaguered nation. 93% of the votes cast. The question worth asking (continued on page 6)

Tel. +41 44 776 25 60, Editor: Mr. Atsen Ahua Guest Contributor Fax +41 44 776 25 63 [email protected] Mr. George Ola-Davies [email protected] www.africalink.ch Associate Editors Contributing Editors IMPRINT ISSN 1661-44-29 Mr. Mohomodou Houssouba Ms. Folake Idowu, Editor-in-chief Mr. Misseli M. Bationo Mr. Hilary Nwokeabia, AFRICA LINK Mr. Johnson Oduwaiye Mr. Paul Nzeshi (Nigeria), Representative/Political Editor Published by AFRICA LINK ORG. Tel. +41 79 664 13 54 Mr. Dennis Onyango (Kenya), (Nigeria) Postfach 1, 8914 Aeugst am Albis [email protected] Mr. Keith Gottschalk (SA) Mr. Ifeanyi E.nNwosu 4Switzerland Dr.May/June Priscilla Bowens2016 (USA) COMMENTAIRE

DIRIGEANTS AFRICAINS: Quitter La Scène Au Plus Fort Des Applaudissements

Cessons de nous illusionner sur l’avènement de la démocratie en Afrique. Il est vrai que l’époque où les coups d’Etat militaires faisaient constamment la une des journaux est révolue. Beaucoup des officiers qui avaient tramé ces coups d’Etat ont quitté leurs casernes, troqué leurs uniformes kaki contre des tenues civiles, que ce soit le caftan ou le complet-veston.

Ils croyaient croire en la «démocratie». n’était, mais il s’est montré plus sage pour un pour sortir le pays du bourbier. Mais au moins Mais quelle sorte de démocratie? Mwalimu pays qui, en réalité, a ouvert la marche vers la il avait le mandat du peuple dans une élec- Julius Nyerere, père fondateur de la Tanzanie, démocratie dans cette partie du continent. Le tion où s’affrontaient trois anciens premiers a dit un jour qu’il n’existe pas de «démocra- chapitre était clos, la passation de pouvoir s’est ministres, fils d’anciens présidents, et frelatée tie coca-cola en prêt-à-porter». Cette phrase faite pacifiquement et la nation s’est épargné par les préjugés religieux. Finalement, tous les signifie que cela ne marcherait pas d’imposer un bain de sang. Fait intéressant, le Président candidats qu’il a devancés ont confirmé leur le style de démocratie occidental en Afrique, Talon a clairement exprimé son intention de volonté de se rallier à lui et de travailler pour que l’Afrique DOIT se tailler son propre le progrès dans ce pays pressé de toutes parts. modèle. Un tel modèle ne sera pas exempt de Le Mozambique était un exemple brillant. certains principes fondamentaux; mais on ne Tous les gouvernants Comme le Botswana, la Namibie, l’Afrique du peut pas dire que c’est le cas de la démocratie Sud, le Sénégal et le Cap-Vert, ce pays, depuis d’aujourd’hui en Afrique. qui ont quitté la mort de Samoura Machel, a vu ses présidents Cette année, peu avant que nous mettions honorablement le passer le témoin à la fin de leur second mandat. sous presse cette année, des élections prési- On ne peut pas en dire autant des scrutins dentielles et parlementaires ont eu lieu dans pouvoir jouent encore en République du Congo, Ouganda, au Tchad, au moins six pays du continent. Les résultats aux Comores, en Guinée équatoriale et à Dji- ont été hétéroclites, parfois très bons, parfois des rôles majeurs sur bouti, où les dirigeants en place ont prolongé d’une tristesse à pleurer. leur longévité au pouvoir par des changements Parmi les positifs, citons ceux de la Répu- la scène mondiale, mais constitutionnels douteux dans leur intérêt blique du Bénin et de la République centra- particulièrement sur personnel, ce qui a inévitablement semé la fricaine. Cela faisait du bien, pour une fois, graine d’une profonde discorde; des retours d’apprendre qu’un candidat perdant avait le continent africain. de flamme seront alors à craindre bien après appelé le vainqueur, non seulement pour le qu’ils ne seront plus là. Ils ne réalisent pas que féliciter, mais pour l’assurer de sa volonté de rien ne dure éternellement. Certains, comme travailler avec lui pour le bien du pays. Premier ne gouverner que pour un seul mandat et de Museveni et Obiang Nguema, manœuvrent ministre en exercice et candidat du parti au changer la Constitution pour que la présidence pour que leurs enfants leur succèdent un jour. pouvoir, Lionel Zinsou jouissait du soutien ne dure dorénavant pas davantage. Bien qu’il Dans ces pays, les gouvernants ont continué du président sortant, Thomas Boni Yayi. Au ait une tâche énorme devant lui, cet engage- à se tailler dans les lois la possibilité de rester deuxième tour, lorsqu’il a dû s’incliner devant ment à ne pas gouverner plus longtemps est éternellement au pouvoir, ouvrant une voie l’homme d’affaires Patrice Talon, qui n’avait un geste louable. dangereuse pour les générations futures. Dans guère de carrière politique, il a saisi son télé- En Centrafrique, qui était politiquement le cas de l’Ouganda et du Congo, les deux phone, contre l’avis de ses partisans, a appelé dans la tourmente depuis 2013, c’est l’ancien gouvernants ont fait bloquer les réseaux sociaux Talon et l’a félicité. Zinsou aurait pu profiter premier ministre, Faustin Archange Touadera, jusqu’à leurs cérémonies de prestation de ser- de l’appareil étatique pour des manipulations et qui a remporté la victoire; une satisfaction ment. Le Président ougandais Yoweri Museveni continuer à faire des affaires comme si de rien certes mitigée par de lourdes préoccupations a même ordonné que son principal opposant,

Pictures Layout Opinions published do not necessarily By Africa Link, Soldini Communication, Zürich reflect those of the Editorial Board except otherwise stated Africa Link Bank Account All correspondence to Editorial Board Members Branch: Raiffeisenbank Kelleramt-Albis AFRICA LINK, Allmendstrasse 18, Postfach 1, 8914 Aeugst am Albis, Switzerland Mr. Peter Hevi Account Nr. 60976.22 or E-mail to [email protected] Ms. Folake Idowu IBAN: CH95 8070 2000 0060 9762 2 Mr. Mohomodou Houssouba Clearing: 80702 © by Africa Link Org Mr. Misseli M. Bationo May/June 2016 5 COMMENTAIRE

Quitter La Scène Au Plus Fort Des Applaudissements

Kizza Besigye, soit assigné à résidence dans un Dans le Tchad voisin, le Président Idriss Kagamé continue à gouverner aussi longtemps lointain district du nord alors que lui-même Deby est bien installé dans son fauteuil depuis qu’il le voudra. Les Sierra-Léonais bataillent prêtait serment pour la cinquième fois depuis un coup d’Etat en 1990 et ne semble pas près actuellement pour faire de même pour Ernest son accession au pouvoir en 1986. C’est un de le quitter. Bai Koroma, dont le deuxième mandat, censé rappel brutal de ce qu’avait fait le défunt roi Comme si cette plaisanterie ne suffisait pas, être le dernier, expirera en 2017. Hassan du Maroc quand il avait banni Abra- le Président nigérien Mahamadou Issoufou a fait Tous les gouvernants qui ont quitté hono- ham Serfaty dans la prison de Tazmamart, en emprisonner son principal adversaire, Hamma rablement le pouvoir jouent encore des rôles plein désert, pendant huit ans. On y laissait Amadou, jusqu’à ce qu’il soit trop malade pour majeurs sur la scène mondiale, mais particuliè- pourrir les détenus, dont la plupart étaient des faire campagne. Pendant le second tour des rement sur le continent africain. Sir Ketumile opposants au roi. Quand Serfaty en sortit après élections, Amadou écrivait dans la douleur dans Masire et Festus Mogae du Botswana, Alpha une série de pressions internationales, il était un hôpital français. La seule inconnue de ces Oumar Konaré du Mali, Joachim Chissano et en chaise roulante. élections a été le taux de participation. Armando Guebuza du Mozambique, Thabo Denis Sassou N’guesso a manœuvré à sa Les nouveaux challenges sur le continent Mbeki d’Afrique du Sud, Antonio Monteiro et manière, d’abord en organisant un référendum se font attendre. En République démocratique Pedro Pires du Cap-Vert sont quelques noms pour abolir la limite de mandat inscrite dans du Congo, déjà, le Président Joseph Kabila est qui viennent à l’esprit; mais d’autres, qui se sont la Constitution; puis, à l’approche du scrutin, presque certain de rester au pouvoir au-delà de accrochés au pouvoir sous prétexte «d’aider à il a réprimé ses opposants. Si, en Ouganda la fin de son deuxième mandat; les autorités terminer leur travail», font de la démocratie et au Congo, les dirigeants ont obtenu un manœuvrent pour réduire au silence l’un de une plaisanterie. peu plus de 60% des voix au premier tour, en ses adversaires, Moise Katumbi, s’il venait à Quatre cents ans après sa mort, les os de Guinée équatoriale, Teodoro Obiang Nguema protester, et pavent la voie à de nouvelles vio- Shakespeare sont peut-être pourris, mais ses Mbasogo a carrément battu ses «adversaires» à lences dans un pays qui n’a plus connu la paix monarques restent toujours d’actualité. Et lui- plate couture et engrangé non moins de 93% depuis vingt ans. même le savait bien: tout bon acteur devrait des voix. Il vaut la peine de se poser la question: Le Rwanda a déjà cassé la limite du man- quitter la scène au plus fort des applaudisse- «Prenons-nous la démocratie au sérieux?» dat présidentiel pour que son Président Paul ments.

AFRICAN LEADERS: Quit While The Ovation Is Loudest (continued from page 4) here is “Are we really serious about democracy”? term limit for President Paul Kagame to continue In neighbouring Chad, President Idriss Deby is ruling for as long as he wishes. Sierra Leoneans safely on the chair which he occupied after a coup are presently battling to do likewise for Ernest Bai d’état in 1990 and there are no signs that he will Koroma whose second and “normally” final term relinquish it soon. is in 2017. As if this joke was not enough, Niger’s President, All those leaders that left power honourably have Mahamadou Issoufou, had his most serious chal- played or are still playing distinctive roles on the lenger, Hamma Amadou, imprisoned until he was world stage but particularly so on the continent. Sir too sick to even campaign. While the second round Ketumile Masire and Festus Mogae of Botswana, of elections were being held, Amadou was writing Alpha Oumar Konare of Mali, Joachim Chissano in pain in a French hospital. The only unknown and Armando Guebuza of Mozambique, Thabo during those elections was the turnout at the polls. Mbeki of South Africa, Antonio Monteiro and We are still to see fresh challenges on the con- Pedro Pires of Cape Verde are some of the names tinent. Already in the Democratic Republic of the that easily come to mind. Others who have stuck Congo, President Joseph Kabila is almost certain to on to power under the guise of “helping to complete be in power beyond the end of his second term and their work,” are merely making democracy a joke. with moves entrenched to silence one of his most Shakespeare’s bone may have all gone rotten serious challengers, Moise Katumbi, should he be wherever they are 400 years this year after his contesting, the authorities are paving the way for death but most of his sayings remain relevant to- continued violence in a country that has not known day. Didn’t he say something to the effect that one peace for the past two decades. should quit when the ovation is loudest? I leave this Rwanda has already quashed the presidential with you African leaders to ponder.

6 May/June 2016 RELIGION

ing her to see where she was emotionally, physi- When All Hope Is Gone cally, and spiritually. The woman responded the way many people do today when someone talks By Dr. Charles Stanley to them about Jesus— she changed the subject. John 4:1-42 Although she perceived from Christ’s insight SUMMARY that He was a prophet, she started talking about the disagreement between the Jews and Hope is a word of optimism and expectation that looks forward with anticipa- Samaritans regarding where to worship. After tion to the future, yet multitudes of people have lost their hope. Some are hopeless Jesus explained that one day people would wor- about specific areas such as their marriages, children, health, finances, or jobs. ship God in spirit and truth, the woman brought But for others, this emotion permeates their entire lives. up the subject of the Messiah, saying that He would declare all things to them. They exist but have no hopes, dreams, or the religious leaders didn’t want anything to do When Jesus claimed He was the Messiah, goals. This is not the way God intends for us to with her for fear of ruining their reputations. A she immediately believed. She began that day live. He created us to live with purpose, working personal encounter with Jesus Christ radically as a rejected and hopeless woman, but found her toward goals and feeling a sense of anticipation changes people’s lives. This is exactly what hap- hope restored in Jesus because He accepted her for the future. pened to the Samaritan woman one day when just the way she was, didn’t condemn her, and she came to the well to draw water. She arrived loved her unconditionally. She was no longer Sermon Points around noon, a time when no one else came, and interested in well water because she had found The story of Jesus and a Samaritan woman was surprised to see a man sitting there. Even living water. Leaving her water-pot, she went is one that gives hope to those who have lost more shocking, he asked her for a drink of water. into the city, which had previously rejected it (John 4:1-42). When Jesus was going from There were three problems with this situa- her, boldly proclaiming that she had met the Judea to Galilee, the shortest route was through tion. First of all, Jesus was a Jew, and she was Messiah. Samaria. However, from a Jewish perspective, a Samaritan. Second, he was a man, and she This once discouraged and ostracized woman this was not the wisest or most desirable choice was a woman. And third, Jesus was a rabbi. A became the city evangelist. She was now full of because there was enmity between them and conversation between the two of them was not excitement and purpose, wanting everyone to the Samaritans. But Jesus was undeterred by the acceptable in that culture because of what oth- know that Jesus had changed her life, and she racial and religious animosity, and His decision ers might think. According to Jewish custom, would never be the same again. Through her to go through Samaria resulted in the transfor- a man was not to be alone with a woman at an witness many believed in Him, and they even mation of a woman who had lost all hope. inn or talk to her on the street—even if she was invited Jesus to stay with them for a while. Various life circumstances cause people to his own wife, sister, or daughter. Today people are still going to wells seeking have a sense of hopelessness. Sometimes this Furthermore, if a rabbi or teacher was seen something that will satisfy their inner thirst, feeling is not the result of anything a person speaking to a woman in public, his reputation only to discover that sin is like salt water: It has done, but in other cases, hopelessness comes would be ruined. Yet Jesus broke all these just increases their thirst for more of the wrong from a sinful lifestyle or unwise decisions. This social barriers and started a conversation with things. As believers, we are called to pass the was the case for the Samaritan woman. a Samaritan woman. He began by asking her living water on to thirsty people who don’t know First of all, she had made wrong choices. She for a drink. When she questioned why He was where to find it. Those who are living in disobe- had been married five times and was now living talking to her, Jesus shifted the conversation dience, indulgence, and worldly pursuits don’t with a man who was not her husband. Because of to what He could give her—living water. This realize that God created them for Himself—to this, she had suffered much difficulty, endured made no sense to her because He had nothing be His beloved children. That’s why He sent rejection, and been the object of gossip in her with which to draw from the well. His Son Jesus to pay their sin debt in full. As small community. Her situation left her feeling However, Jesus clarified the issue by explain- followers of Christ we can lead them step by morally dirty and emotionally empty. ing, “Everyone who drinks of this water will step into a relationship with Him just as Jesus Second, she had repeatedly failed. She’d thirst again; but whoever drinks of the water did for the Samaritan woman. searched for love and was probably discouraged that I will give him shall never thirst” (vv. 13- because none of her marriages had lasted. Her 14). The woman was immediately interested Response dejection may have led her to give up on mar- in this living water. She enthusiastically asked What kinds of wells have you dipped into riage altogether and simply live with a man. Jesus to give it to her so she wouldn’t have to to try to satisfy your thirst? What was the out- Third, she may have felt trapped. Where repeatedly come back to the well and haul water come? Have you discovered the living water of could she go to escape her situation? She needed home. But Jesus abruptly changed the subject salvation in Christ? If so, what are you doing a man for survival. Despite her search for secu- saying, “Go, call your husband and come here” to pass it on to others? rity, she remained dissatisfied. The immorality (v. 16). When she told him she didn’t have a How can you start a conversation that will was beginning to take its toll on her life, and she husband, He agreed with her and told her she’d bring someone into a relationship with Jesus? probably thought no one would ever love her. had five and was now living with someone who Finally, she was isolated from her commu- was not her husband. Dr. Charles Stanley is the pastor at nity. No one wanted to associate with her. Even He wasn’t being critical but was simply help- In Touch Ministries, Inc

May/June 2016 7 SWISSLINE

work is lacking? When automation and sophisti- A basic income for all – the cated computer programming have swallowed a lot of jobs in all fields, from the unskilled to the issue before Swiss voters highly qualified, then we are going to need to find an answer.” So it is better to be proactive than to have to fix things after the fact, she says. The Swiss are voting in June on whether the state should pay a monthly basic "This initiative isn’t proactive, it’s putting the income to every citizen. Is it the answer to the changing jobs landscape or an cart before the horse,” notes Clottu. “In time we will utopian concept? have to examine how we can generate income, but in spite of pseudo-robotisation there will always be a The initiative, "for an unconditional basic in- The idea is to have an income by which all peo- need for the human being. Behind every computer come", is rooted in debate about a two-speed society ple could live in dignity. No specific amount has there has to be a human being. There will be jobs where the pay gap continues to grow. Unlike other been set out; it would be up to the lawmakers to that disappear, but new ones will appear. Being similar initiatives, it focuses on the digital revolution figure that out. But the promoters of the initiative proactive means strengthening the links between and the resulting loss of traditional jobs. have mentioned a monthly income of CHF2,500 training and industry. It is at the level of training Supporters say giving everyone from the cradle ($2,600) for adults and CHF625 for minors. that we should be aware and evolving to keep to the grave an unconditional basic income to "Based on population statistics from 2012, this up with the needs of industry and technological cover all essential needs would eradicate poverty means it would cost the country CHF208 billion developments." and dependence on social welfare. It would allow a year. This would come to about 35% of GDP. It One of the concerns from both from the left and people to choose a job they like, encourage training, is flabbergasting," says Clottu. the right is that the universal basic income calls into creativity and volunteering. They believe it would Nor does the intiative specify where the money question the whole Swiss social security system. free up more time for caring for children and elderly would come from, so it would have to be worked But Fetz says: "It would not replace all social and infirm family members. out in legislation following a “yes” vote. Accord- insurance schemes. Currently there are 13. Re- ing to the model suggested by ducing the number would be an opportunity to the promoters, an unconditional adapt the system to new challenges." She believes basic income – known in some we cannot continue with a system based on the countries as a universal basic in- principle of full employment when major changes come – would be mainly funded are on the horizon. from taxation on salaries and the For Clottu, though, a basic income would "put transfer of social welfare benefits. at risk a system which is not perfect, but works For the remaining CHF25 bil- well enough, and motivates people to work and get lion or so, there would have to training. So we should try to improve it, consoli- be more taxes or transfers within date it", not bring in a basic income which would government. burden wage-earners and businesses and "destroy "Finding CHF25 billion the motivation to work". worth of additional taxes, the way things are now, seems im- Translated from Italian by Terence MacNamee How much would be given would be worked out later by lawmakers (Keystone) possible to me," says Clottu. One idea from the promoters Put forward by an independent citizen group, would be to increase the current value added tax the initiative doesn’t have much political backing. (VAT) of 8%. "This would mean purchasing power Wording of the proposal In parliament it was rejected by the centre-right would go down and the country’s economy would The initiative proposes to insert the following article in the majority and gathered little support, even among be weakened," says Clottu. federal constitution: left-leaning parties. The House of Representatives "I too am against increasing VAT. But that is just 1. The government will provide a basic income. voted it down by 157 to 19 with 16 abstentions. In one idea among many. Among the promoters, there 2. The basic income will allow the people to live in a digni- the Senate its sole supporter was leftwing Social are those who want a micro-tax on financial transac- fied manner and participate in public life. Democrat Anita Fetz. tions. I think that would be the right way to go, as 3. Legislation will determine the funding for the system "It is worthwhile to talk about this proposal, well as a tax on computers. Since the discussion is and the actual amount of the basic income. because it is an idea that could be a real solution, taking place in the context of the digitalisation of most likely in 20 or 30 years time, when the digi- work, funding should be sought for it in the same What would you do? Only 2% of Swiss would stop working if the government talisation of work will result in the loss of many area," Fetz believes. paid them a basic income of CHF 2,500 per month; a jobs," says the Basel senator. further 8% would consider quitting work depending on "It is a far-out idea that is not feasible," says Proactive approach the circumstances. That’s according to an opinion poll Raymond Clottu, a conservative right Swiss People’s In any case, says Fetz, "it is a mistake to talk carried out on behalf of the promoters of the initiative, Party parliamentarian, pointing to the "enormous about funding now. The question is: what does using a sample of 1,076 people. costs" it would bring. society do if the traditional income gained from Source: Swiss News Agency

8 May/June 2016 SWISSLINE

COMBIEN GAGNENT LES ÉLUS tuitement en train, en bateau ou en avion dans toute la Péninsule. Et ce n’est pas tout: ils ont également Parlementaires de tous les accès gratuitement au coiffeur, ou plutôt aux quatre coiffeurs du parlement. pays, présentez vos fiches Les députés allemands, français ou britanniques ne sont pas en reste. En Allemagne, par exemple, de salaire! chaque membre du Bundestag est remboursé à hau- teur de 52'000 euros par an pour ses frais et reçoit 250'000 euros par an pour le salaire de ses collabo- En Suisse, on se targue souvent d’avoir l’un des parlements les moins chers du rateurs. Contrairement à ce qui se fait en Italie, c’est monde. Mais les élus helvétiques gagnent-ils vraiment moins que leurs collè- cependant l’administration du Bundestag qui verse gues des autres pays? Et quels sont les parlements qui rémunèrent le mieux leurs directement les salaires, et non le député. En France, membres? swissinfo.ch a mené l’enquête. ce que l’on nomme «indemnité représentative pour les coûts de mandat» s’élève à près de 70'000 euros La question des salaires des parlementaires et est toutefois énorme. En Italie, un membre de la par an et celle réservée aux collaborateurs à 114'000 de leur statut fait régulièrement l’objet de débats. Chambre des députés dispose d’un salaire fixe euros. Les députés français peuvent par ailleurs Récemment, le sénateur zougois Joachim Eder a presque trois fois plus élevé que celui de son homo- voyager gratuitement en train, en première classe, déposé une initiative parlementaire pour exiger logue suisse. En tenant compte des indemnités et dans tout le pays et effectuer jusqu’à 80 vols internes qu’on n’accorde plus d’indemnités de nuitées aux des allocations journalières,un député italien peut par an sans débourser un centime. parlementaires qui ne séjournent pas hors de la gagner plus de 165'000 euros par an, alors qu’un maison. citoyen italien ‘normal’ doit se contenter d’un salaire Plus d’un million de frais pour les Quelques mois plus tôt, le député Hans Grun- cinq fois inférieur (30'600 euros). députés US der avait de son côté déposé une autre initiative En mettant en relation le salaire moyen des En Grande-Bretagne, hormis un remboursement parlementaire – pas encore traitée par le plénum citoyens lambda et des parlementaires, il apparaît forfaitaire de 14'500 euros, chaque député peut se – dans laquelle il demandait de limiter la durée que ce sont les députés brésiliens qui sont les mieux faire rembourser tous les frais engendrés par son des mandats pour éviter que le législatif fédéral lotis. Ces derniers gagnent près de dix fois plus que activité parlementaire. En moyenne, cela repré- «ne se transforme insidieusement en parlement le salarié moyen brésilien. Les députés espagnolssont sente 115'000 euros par an. La Grande-Bretagne professionnel». quant à eux les moins bien rémunérés en Europe est toutefois l’un des pays les plus transparents S’il est resté un parlement de milice, soit une occidentale: leur salaire fixe est pratiquement dans ce domaine: chaque note de frais de chaque structure qui permet à ses membres de continuer identique au salaire moyen de leurs compatriotes. parlementaire peut être consultée sur un site inter- à exercer un autre travail à côté de leur mandat net. Un système mis en place en 2009, après des politique, le parlement suisse s’est de plus en Un salaire qui peut doubler révélations sur l’utilisation peu vertueuse de l’argent plus professionnalisé ces dernières décennies. L’indemnité parlementaire ne représente tou- des contribuables par des membres de la Chambre En moyenne, le mandat d’un conseiller national tefois qu’une composante du salaire des élus. En des communes. (Chambre basse) implique une charge minimale prenant en compte les différents types de rem- Cette transparence est également de mise aux de travail de 50% et celui d’un conseiller aux Etats boursement des dépenses – impossibles à résumer Etats-Unis, mais elle n’empêche pas les députés (Chambre haute) de 70%. dans un graphique tant les systèmes sont différents américains de prétendre au titre de champions du d’un pays à l’autre – la rémunération annuelle peut monde en matière de remboursement de frais de L’Italie en tête du classement parfois être multipliée par deux. personnel, de voyage et de matériel divers. En plus De fait, le système d’indemnités du parlement C’est le cas de la Suisse. Grâce aux indemnités d’un salaire annuel de 153'000 euros, les repré- suisse permet, à ceux qui le souhaitent, de se consa- de repas, d’hébergement, de voyage ainsi qu’une sentants du Congrès peuvent dépenser sans trop crer entièrement à la politique, sans se faire trop de somme annuelle de 33'000 francs à titre de contri- compter: en 2012, chaque député a reçu en moyenne soucis quant à leurs fins de mois. Chaque élu perçoit bution aux frais de personnel et de matériel, un 1,15 million d’euros. Par rapport à certains de leurs un salaire annuel de 26'000 francs, auxquels s’ajoute conseiller national peut espérer gagner 50'000 pairs à l’étranger, les 246 membres du parlement une indemnité de 440 francs pour chaque journée euros supplémentaires par an, parvenant ainsi à un suisse ont donc encore une certaine marge avant de de travail durant les sessions, les séances de commis- total de 110'000 euros. Et cela même s’il renonce à pouvoir être taxés de dépensiers. sions ou de groupe parlementaire. En moyenne, ces engager un assistant personnel. Cette dépense est indemnités représentent un apport annuel de près en effet versée sur une base forfaitaire. Il n’y donc Par Daniele Mariani, (Traduction de l'italien: de 40'000 francs pour chaque conseiller national*. pas besoin de justificatif, contrairement à ce qui se Samuel Jaberg), swissinfo.ch En d’autres termes, sans compter le remboursement fait dans d’autres pays. Soyez le premier à donner votre avis sur cet des frais, un parlementaire suisse perçoit un salaire En Italie, chaque parlementaire peut compter article: de près de 66'000 francs (60'000 euros) par an. jusqu’à 62'000 euros par an pour couvrir ses *pour cette analyse, seuls les membres des chambres Est-ce peu? Beaucoup? Par rapport au salaire dépenses. Outre le remboursement des frais de basses des différents pays ont été pris en compte, et non moyen en Suisse – 50'300 euros en 2014, selon personnel (à justifier, mais dans une limite de ceux des sénats; par ailleurs, il n’a pas été tenu compte les chiffres de l’OCDE – la différence est minime. 50%), de téléphone ou de déplacement, les députés de la charge endossée par les élus: dans certains pays, par exemple, un chef de groupe perçoit une rétribution Par rapport à leurs collègues étrangers, la différence reçoivent une carte qui leur permet de voyager gra- plus élevée qu’un ‘simple’ député.

May/June 2016 9 BRIEFS

Tanzania students with core and specialized oil and gas knowl- CARE International, launched in 2014 with the Tigo Invests US$75m To Scale edge, is part of the government’s drive to promote aim of supporting 15,000 rural Rwandan women to workforce nationalization in the industry. SAIT’s secure long-term economic independence by provid- up its 4G and 3G Sites International Workforce Development and Work- ing them with the skills, knowledge and tools they Tigo will this year be investing over US$ 75 million force Nationalization Training have been successful need to turn their micro enterprises into profitable on the network expansion and quality improvement in transferring technology to Africa countries, boost- and sustainable businesses. To date, it has provided by scaling up its 4G and 3G sites, fiber network as ing national capacity and promoting local content. financial literacy and investment readiness training well as increasing the number of customer service The first partnership between SAIT and Equatorial to 16,146 women engaged in CARE International’s outlets countrywide Guinea saw the training and development of the first Village Savings and Loan Associations in the districts The Tanzania’s digital lifestyle telecom operator, nationals to work in the oil and gas industry, specifi- of Rulindo and Gicumbi. Through the project, 2,353 Tigo, is now the leading mobile telephone company cally on the offshore Zafiro complex, the country’s women have started new businesses, with over 1,535 with the fastest and widest 4G LTE network in the largest oil field. new jobs being created. Tanzania. Tigo 4G has impacted positively on custom- “The oil and gas sector is driven by people and Skilling for Change is supported by Accenture’s ers lifestyle enabling them to enjoy a faster internet technology. Through this historic training program, corporate citizenship initiative (http://www.apo.af/ connection, five times faster than 3G technology. we are investing in both,” said H.E. Gabriel Mbaga uFi1yo), Skills to Succeed, which is equipping more From inception in April 2015 in Dar Es Salaam, Obiang Lima, the Minister of Mines, Industry and than three million people around the world with the the company has expanded to Arusha, Tanga, Do- Energy. “The Government of Equatorial Guinea is skills to get a job or build a business. doma, Morogoro, Moshi, Mwanza, Tabora, Musoma, empowering its nationals with the technical tools Laurie Lee, CEO of CARE International, Bukoba, Kigoma and Shinyanga and plans are under- they need to lead the next generation of our nation’s said, “Putting women at the centre of devel- way to cover all major cities before the end of this year. oil and gas industry so we can be better stewards of opment efforts is a catalyst for fighting pov- The Tigo 4G LTE network provides faster internet our resources.” erty. When women are empowered to make speed to surf and download content and in making Students will receive a world-class curriculum and control their own money, the impact on uninterrupted Skype calls. The 4G LTE significantly that covers production field operations, energy as- their own lives and the lives of their fami- enhances the customer experience in in high definition set management, maintenance of operations and lies can be nothing short of life-changing.” video streaming. With the current partnership with electrical instrumentation and mechanical training. YouTube, Tigo customers can also enjoy free video Underpinning the program will be extensive safety Africa Link streaming at night. training. Upon completion, every student will receive Tigo General Manager, Diego Gutierrez said, an SAIT Certificate of Achievement and will return Uganda “the expansion of 4G technology to all corners of the to Equatorial Guinea equipped to handle the rigorous ICC Tasks Govt On Bashir country is in line with our commitment to provide demands of the oil and gas industry. our customers with world class services that enable Equatorial Guinea produces nearly 300,000 Arrest them to enjoy a fully digital lifestyle.” barrels per day of petroleum liquids and exports 3.7 The International Criminal Court (ICC) has writ- He added. “The countrywide expansion of 4G million tonnes per annum of liquefied natural gas to ten to the government seeking an explanation over the once again demonstrates not only Tigo’s leadership markets worldwide. in delivering cutting edge technology and innovation in Tanzania but also emphasizes our commitment to Africa Link increase access to the Internet to as many Tanzanians as possible.” United Kingdom Diego Gutierrez assures customers that Tigo is Cherie Blair highlights project currently embarking on a network modernization Photo: Daily Monitor/PPU program which includes increasing capacity to all the achievements President Museveni (right) greets Sudan’s 12 4G LTE covered cities as well as increasing consid- Cherie Blair, Founder of the Cherie Blair Foun- Omar-al-Bashir at the former’s inauguration erably the 3G coverage countrywide and optimizing dation for Women and wife of former British Prime the 2G network. Minister, Tony Blair, participating in the World Eco- failure to arrest embattled Sudanese president Omar- Africa Link nomic Forum meeting in Kigali noted that Women El-Bashir, who was in the country last week to attend Equatorial Guinea entrepreneurs have the potential to shape Africa’s President Museveni's sixth swearing-in ceremony. Nationals To Undergo Training economic future. The presiding Judge Cuno Tarfusser in a May 17 She added, “The success of my Foundation’s Skill- communiqué directed the court's registry, which is in Oil & Gas Technology ing for Change project in Rwanda has shown that responsible for external affairs, to request "competent The Ministry of Mines, Industry and Energy of when women are given the skills and tools they need authorities of the Republic of Uganda to submit by Equatorial Guinea has announced its signing of an to flourish, entire communities and economies benefit. June 24, their observations with respect to their failure agreement with the Southern Alberta Institute of Unlocking the full potential of women entrepreneurs to arrest and surrender Omar-El-Bashir while present Technology (SAIT Polytechnic) to provide com- is crucial to driving growth across Africa, and, indeed, on the territory of Uganda." prehensive technical training to Equatorial Guinea the world.” The letter was also countersigned by two other nationals in Calgary, Alberta, in Canada. The Cherie Blair Foundation for Women (http:// Judges March Perrin de Brichambaut and Chang-ho The two-year program, which will provide the www.CherieBlairFoundation.org), Accenture and Chung.

10 May/June 2016 BRIEFS

The ICC's regional outreach coordinator Maria mate between the president and the prime minister Kamara confirmed the existence of the document, already spread out in Madagascar. saying: "it is just a request for a submission." Mr. Ravelonarivo, a general, was appointed as The request for submission comes on the heels the 18th Madagascar's prime minister to replace of a diplomatic protest memo the court tendered to Kolo Roger on January 17, 2015. Ugandan authorities on May 11, a day before the swearing-in, reminding the government "of their (Xinhua/NAN) obligations, as a State Party, to cooperate with the immediate arrest and surrender of President Bashir to Tanzania the Court, pursuant to article 89(1) of the Statute, in AfDB approves USD 120 mil- the event that he attends the said ceremony." "To the date of this report, no reply to the above- lion Line of Credit to CRDB mentioned note verbale, has yet been received from Bank Plc the authorities of the Republic of Uganda," the con- Minister Lai Mohammed receiving the artifact from fidential note sent to the Foreign Affairs ministry last The Board of Directors of the African Develop- Ambassador Denys Gauer week reads in part. ment Bank Group (AfDB) through its private sec- tor window has approved a USD 120-million line In his address, the Minister thanked the Daily Monitor of credit (LOC) to CRDB Bank Plc (“CRDB”) French Government for demonstrating the will in Tanzania. to fight illegal trafficking of cultural artifacts and Madagascar Prime Minister CRDB, the largest commercial bank in Tan- urged other countries to emulate France. zania, was established in 1969 and listed on the “I will like to thank Ambassador Denys Gauer Resigns Dar es Salaam Stock Exchange in 2002. CRDB for his country’s show of support in our fight The secretary general of the Madagascar has a wide geographical coverage of the Tanza- against illicit trafficking of cultural goods and Presidency, Ralala Roger, said country's govern- nian market where it operates over 120 branches their untiring efforts at restitution and return ment led by Prime Minister Jean Ravelonarivo across the country and an additional 3 branches of such items. I wish to recommend this ‘French has resigned. in Burundi. It supports various sectors such as Model’ to other countries,” he said. "Resignation of the government was accepted power, manufacturing, agriculture and SMEs Alhaji Mohammed re-emphasised the deter- by Madagascar's President Henry Rajaonarimam- over the past years. In 2008, the AfDB provided mination of this administration to elevate culture pianina," Roger said. a risk-sharing facility to promote SMEs in the and tourism to the mainstream of the economy in He added that those who resigned would con- agriculture sector, through which more than 270 its quest to diversify the economy, create wealth tinue to perform state duties until the appointment SMEs have benefited. and generate employment. Since 2008, CRDB has expanded its SME loan portfolio and has partnered with more than In his remarks, the French Ambassador said 2,125 agents or non-banking intermediaries to the presentation of the Nok Terracotta was in widen its reach. The agency banking has enabled line with the International Law and within the CRDB to provide services in far-flung areas where framework of the 1970 UNESCO Convention establishing branches may be uneconomical hence aimed at preventing the illicit import and export efficiently allowing the financially excluded to of ownership of cultural properties, which was access banking services. ratified by both France and Nigeria. He said the gesture was an illustration of the Africa Link French policy to fight illegal trade in cultural goods. Nigeria Ambassador Gauer said the artifact was in- France returns Artefact Il- tercepted in France as it was being taken to the United States on Oct. 22nd, 2008. legally Exported The Nok culture appeared in Nigeria around France has officially presented to Nigeria the 1000 B.C. and later vanished under unknown Nok Terracotta that was repatriated after it was circumstances around 500 AD. It is the earliest Jean Ravelonarivo intercepted in France while in transit from Togo producer of life-sized Terracotta in sub-Saharan to the United States on 22 October 2008. Africa. of the new members of the government. French Ambassador to Nigeria Denys Gauer Africa Link Indiscretion from the followers of the outgo- officially presented the artifact, a Terracotta ing prime minister said that he was forced by the figurative sculpture, to the Minister of Informa- president to resign. On Wednesday the Prime tion and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, at a minister still said that he would not resign. recent ceremony to mark the 2016 International Report says months ago, rumours on the stale- Museum Day in Abuja.

May/June 2016 11 CELEBRATION

South Africa Marks Freedom Day In Style By Samuel Polley

Freedom day in South Africa is 27 April. This is the day, 22 years ago when eration between the two countries as well as the the country broke away from the clutches of apartheid and held its first non- recent deliberations over human rights matters. racial democratic elections. The day is celebrated in South Africa and at all “This platform offers us the opportunity to discuss its diplomatic and other missions the world over. many matters of common interest, and also, some- times, our diverging views. In that spirit, we do have In Switzerland this year, Ambassador Claudinah She told her audience of how that election a very good partnership in transitional justice and Ramosopele hosted hundreds of guests from Swiss marked “a turning point that saw the previously dealing with past issues, on which South Africa government and civil society as well as members of disadvantaged become a part of the political pro- has a lot to share.” the diplomatic corps and residents of South Africans cesses. As a mark of the continuing maturity of our in Switzerland. young democracy, the August local elections this The occasion was graced by South Africa’s musi- year will be the tenth round of nationwide national, cal star, Zahara, whose melodic and heart-warming Ambassador Ramosopele took her guests down provincial and local elections since 1994.” tunes brought everybody to the dance floor with memory lane telling her guests of the importance of her hour-long performance, with Zahara joining the day and its significance this year. “This year,” she She expressed gratitude to the Swiss Federation for a dance. In a poignant moment, Zahara sang told them, “marks 20 years of the country’s constitu- for its continued support towards the South African her song Mandela. Zahara told Africa Link, in an tion,” describing it as “ground breaking” due to the National Development plan. interview featured in the next issue, that she had inclusion of the Bill of Rights, which guarantees a been honoured when invited by Nelson Mandela society in which Human Rights are entrenched In her remarks, the head of the Sub-Saharan personally to his house to sing for him. division in the Swiss Department of Foreign Affairs, She also reflected on Election Day in 1994. “This Mrs. Anne Lugon-Moulin, spoke of the importance Pic 1 r-l: Her Excellency Claudinah Ramosopele, election a marked turning point that saw the previ- of South Africa to Switzerland especially in the area her spouse Mr. Augustine Mgoola, Mr. Johann ously disadvantaged become part of the political of Swiss direct investment, which she described Paschalis, Counsellor Economic and Political Af- processes. As a mark of the continuing maturity of as huge. She described this as a two-way traffic fairs, with his spouse, Mr. Mr Livy Lesufi from Pic 2 l-r: our young democracy, the August local elections as “South Africa’s direct investment is very much South African Mission in Geneva. Mr Luyolo Thomas, 1st Secretary Economic, Mrs will be the 10th round of nation-wide national, present in Switzerland.” Maria Bokaba Corporate Service Manager Pic 3: provincial and local elections since 1994.” She spoke of the scientific and economic coop- Amb. Ramosopele receiving a guest

1 2

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12 May/June 2016 CELEBRATION

1 2

3 4 5

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Pic 1: The guests listening to the Mr. Augustine Mgoola, 2nd right, poses with friends Ambassador’s address Pic 2: The Ambassador delivering her address

Pic 3 & 4: Guests going through some South African items dis- played at the reception Pic 5: Mrs. Gloria Poku and Mr. Ernest Amponsah Ghanaian Diplomats in Berne Pic 6: Amb. Ramos- opele and Mrs. Lugon-Moulin watching Zahara performing Pic 7: Zahara performing at the occasion Pic 8 & 10: “Easy Mr. 1st secretary” (pic 8) “It’s freedom day celebration Mr. Editor.” Mr. 9 10 Luyolo Thomas surprised most of the guests with his excellent dance.

May/June 2016 13 LEUR «NAÏVETÉ»

rité de chacun se reflète dans la vie quotidienne. Leur « naïveté » a sauvé des De mon côté, ça m’a ramené à l’essentiel et m’a évité de me perdre à une époque où ma révolte orphelins au Burkina aurait pu me mener sur de mauvais chemins », explique Laure Revertera qui préside depuis peu Par César Deffeyes le conseil de fondation de Nouvelle Planète tout en officiant comme économiste et professeure A l’aube de la vingtaine, ces deux amies romandes, « amoureuses de l’Afrique » de yoga « Et puis l’Afrique où nous retournions ont voulu fonder à partir de rien un orphelinat au Burkina Faso. Quinze ans plusieurs semaines chaque année nous a rappro- plus tard, le centre Africatilé existe toujours. Piloté par un groupe d’amis depuis ché. On y a attrapé plusieurs fois le paludisme, Lausanne, il offre à 16 enfants la vie digne à laquelle rien ne les prédestinait. fait la vaisselle pour cinquante personnes dans Retour sur une belle histoire. une bassine et même failli y mourir suite à une

Elles ont le regard clair, franc et pétillant de celles qu’habite la joie et qui ne doutent de rien. Laure Revertera, et sa « sœur de cœur » Séverine Peguiron pourraient mourir demain, leur courte vie serait en un sens déjà réussie. Grâce à ces deux Vaudoises de respectivement 35 et 37 ans, seize orphelins burkinabés quasiment destinés à finir exploités dans des mines, dans des réseaux de prostitution ou de mendicité mènent en effet aujourd’hui une existence paisible, encadrés par sept employés dans l’orphelinat qu’elles ont fondé à Banfora, ville de quelques 110 000 habitants situé au sud-ouest du Burkina-Faso. Cela fait quinze ans que cela dure et chaque année, depuis Lausanne, Laure, Séverine et leurs amies se démènent dans une ambiance bon enfant pour récolter les quelques 30 000 francs néces- saires au bon fonctionnement de leur « bébé ». « Elles l’ont fait car elles ne savaient pas que c’était impossible ». Cette célèbre maxime colle à mer- veille au projet Africatilé. Né dans l’esprit des deux Romandes, alors au début de la vingtaine, l’idée de lancer en orphelinat semblait alors un brin voir totalement naïve à beaucoup. « Plusieurs personnes ayant plus d’ex- Comme elles sont toutes deux professeure de yoga, les deux jeunes femmes profitent de leur séjour à Banfora pour enseigner périence dans l’humanitaire avaient quelques postures aux enfants dans et devant le centre. essayé de nous dissuader en affirmant qu’il était impossible d’espérer faire vivre une et sur ces « hasards de la vie qui n’en sont pas ». panne de voiture dans la brousse », se souvient telle structure à distance depuis la Suisse comme hilare Séverine qui elle-même vit aujourd’hui en nous le voulions », explique le duo. Mais c’était Le projet d’une vie enseignant le hatha yoga. sans compter sur l’amitié unissant les deux « On avait découvert le Burkina à 16 et 18 ans Aussi quand Dieudonné Soimaï Soma, son jeunes femmes et leur complice Sophie Bättig dans le cadre d’un camp de l’ONG Nouvelle Pla- compagnon d’alors, lui-même orphelin lui a qui rejoindra vite l’aventure, sur leur réseau, sur nète. L’Afrique nous avait reconnectées à la vie et confié son vieux rêve de fonder un centre dédié leur profonde « histoire d’amour avec l’Afrique » à son véritable rythme. Car là-bas, l’ordre de prio- à ses jeunes semblables, la Vaudoise s’est emballée

14 May/June 2016 LEUR «NAÏVETÉ»

Suisse mais rapidement on a compris qu’elle était la perle qui allait nous éviter bien des problèmes. Les rares moments où elle n’est pas au centre, Félicité passe son temps à prier pour ceux qui y sont. Je suis persuadée que cela aide grandement », confie Séverine. Au départ, l’association ambitionnait de replacer ses protégés dans leur « famille manches longues », à savoir leur famille élargie. Malheu- reusement, chaque tentative s’est soldée par un échec car ils y étaient négligés voir maltraités. « C’est peut-être la preuve que les enfants qui sont dans notre orphelinat sont les bons », posi- tive encore Séverine en optimiste invétérée. A Banfora, les gens appellent le centre, « la famille Africatilé ». C’est tout dire sur la manière dont il est perçu là-bas. Tous les soirs, des nuées d’écoliers squattent la cour de l’établissement pour venir y étudier à la lueur des seules lampes électriques du quartier. Et les choses tournent en partenariat amical avec les associations « Amis des enfants du monde » et avec le « Groupe Blé- Pain Prochain ». L’association Africatilé peut compter pour Séverine Peguiron (à dr.) et Laure Revertera contactent Les deux jeunes Romandes ont découvert en fin cela sur les dons de sa centaine de membres et sur régulièrement la directrice de l’orphelinat à Banfora d’adolescence le Burkina-Faso, sa pauvreté, la joie les diners de soutien et divers évènements qu’elle afin d’avoir des nouvelles du centre et de leurs stoïque de ses habitants, et y ont fondé un orphelinat protégés. Crédit : César Deffeyes quelques années plus tard. Crédit : Laure Revertera. organise chaque année. « Exactement 100% des fonds ainsi récoltés vont là-bas car grâce au bénévolat, nous évitons les frais de fonctionne- illico. « L’Afrique nous avait tellement nourri et deux d’entre eux y commencent même une ment », précise Anne-Laure Bagutti du comité et fait grandir qu’on voulait lui rendre un peu. formation professionnelle. Mais au bout de six de l’association. Pour parvenir à pareil résultats « Dès le départ avec Laure, on savait que ce serait mois, les déconvenues annoncées surviennent. avec des bouts de ficelles », elle et les cinq autres un projet de vie et on l’accepté. » Comme pour « La directrice gérait mal les choses et on a dû membres du comité de l’association se réunissent montrer que toute l’aventure se déroulerait sous le envoyer une délégation de Suisse pour la ren- une fois par mois chez l’un ou l’autre. Assister, sceau de l’amitié, le nom est trouvé autour d’une voyer. Sur place, on a été frappé par la bonté et comme nous l’avons fait, à l’un de ces meetings bonne bouffe à l’Abyssinien de Fribourg. Ce sera les capacités d’une simple nourrisse très croyante où rires et rigueur font bon ménage permet de Africatilé, ce qui signifie « Soleil d’Afrique » dans pourtant peu qualifiée sur le papier et on l’a bom- mesurer la complicité unissant les membres de un des 60 idiomes du Burkina. La première année bardé à la tête de l’orphelinat », raconte Laure. la joyeuse bande et de comprendre aussi à quel sera toute entière dédiée à la récolte de fond et à Quinze ans après, Félicité Medah puisque tel est point le soleil d’Afrique brille toujours en eux. trouver un local. Avec un groupe d’une vingtaine son nom y officie encore. « Au début, Dieudonné d’amis séduits par leur enthousiasme, Laure et lui téléphonait une heure tous les jours depuis la www.africatile.ch Séverine ont vendu des gâteaux au marché de Lausanne, organisé des concerts de reggae, vendu Mamadou, l’enfant des rues qui peut rêver des T-shirt et ORGANISER des soirées « repas de soutien ». « Malgré notre jeunesse et notre inex- de devenir agronome périence, nos interlocuteurs croyaient au projet Parmi les seize orphelins pris en charge par Africatilé, Mamadou est l’un des plus anciens. A bientôt même si tout restait à faire. Je crois qu’on était 17 ans, il en déjà passé 11 au centre ! Le jeune burkinabé rêve de devenir agronome et pourrait bien convaincantes car convaincues, résume Séverine. y parvenir un jour. Il est en effet l’un des meilleurs élèves de sa classe. « Mamadou a 14 sur 20 de On voulait 20 000 fr pour pouvoir tourner toute moyenne et est classé 6e sur 65 dans l’école où nous le scolarisons », relève fièrement Félicité Medah, une année et on y est arrivé !» directrice de l’orphelinat. Pourtant, son jeune protégé revient de loin. A un mois, il perdait son père. Quelques années plus tard, sa mère se remariait et l’abandonnait lui et sa sœur chez leur grand-mère. Une famille pour tout un quartier Rapidement, cette dernière devint folle et les abandonna sur un marché avec pour consigne d’aller Une fois louée une grande maison à Banfora vivre chez une lointaine tante. Mamadou avait alors 4 ans. Finalement recueilli par cette fameuse pour 100 fr par mois, les services sociaux locaux tante dans une grande pauvreté, il s’est mis ensuite à vivre de mendicité. Heureusement, les services leur confie rapidement une vingtaine d’enfants sociaux s’en sont finalement mêlés et l’ont placé dans un orphelinat à peine ouvert. Africatilé rentrait de 2 à 16 ans. La plupart sont toujours au centre dans sa vie. Laquelle ne serait dès lors plus jamais la même…

May/June 2016 15 INTEGRATION

NachbarNET Connects Neighbours for Cooperation and Mutual Benefit By Johnson Oduwaiye NachbarNET is a charitable organisation founded in 1998 to provide a communication network for the residents of Basel city to enable neighbours who need a service connect with those who offer such a service for mutual benefit. It is done for a token remuneration or for an exchange.

It is open to all residents of the city and Accompany old people pany the elderly parent for a walk, medical visit mediates between the two groups in an This service is mostly needed and requested or to go shopping. uncomplicated manner, free of many rules by elderly people who are not able to walk well Mr. Pierre-Alain further explains: “One Switzerland is known for, to realize the and cannot go out alone. This may be because thing common with old people is that they needed services. In addition it brings peo- their children live far away, or are not available don’t like to ask their direct neighbours for such ple together in a social network leading to because of the nature of their work to accom- help. But with this system we try to fill in the new experiences and building new gap. There are many kind hearted acquaintances. people ready to engage in charity. The organisation focuses on about They want to render their services 13 areas of everyday life, Mr. Niklaus to those in need not because they Pierre-Alain, the head of the organisa- would be remunerated but simply tion, told Africa Link. He also added because they have a good heart, after that even though these are the main all they only receive a token amount areas the organisation is working on for ther services.” its services are not limited to those Other people in need of the areas and that it is open to new needs service include the physically chal- and services that may be requested lenged and single mothers with a for. baby.

How it works Private Teachers for The procedure is in the form of Children demand and supply – those in need Those families whose children of a service (demand) and those who need additional lessons but with render the service (supply). Both inadequate financial resources can have to look up the organisation’s also contact NachbarNET to con- website, fill appropriate form, and nect the families with the required submit it. Persons without access to teachers for private classes. There the internet can call NachbarNET’s are teachers for subjects like math- Mr. Niklaus Pierre-Alain office, and will be directed on how to ematics, English, German or French. go about it all. New comers to the canton can also The suppliers of the services range from look for exchange classes to learn German while pensioners, people with little professional “An English speaker who he/she teaches other language he/she is capable commitments and students to those who are wants to learn German and of like English, Chinese, and French. in need of a service but could not afford it. Also for a newcomer who speaks only one In this latter case what they will do instead is ready to teach English can language, and wishes to socialise with other exchange services. One typical example is in people within the community but could not the area of education. A native English speaker be provided with a German because of the language barrier, there are pos- who wants to learn German will request the sibilities for such a newcomer to find students services of a German speaker and they will speaker who wants to learn or retired teachers that can help out by either both exchange teaching classes as the German English and ready to teach taking him/her for a sporting or other social speaker would also wish to learn English. What activity. NachbarNET does in this case is to connect German in form the two parties making sure that they live in Childcare the same neighbourhood. of exchange.” Childcare could be a burden for many The present list includes the followings: parents, particularly those working and single

16 May/June 2016 INTEGRATION

mothers. Through NachbarNET a relaxing Computer Aid an employment office so it does not pay for any solution could be found as it provides capable Many computer users sometimes run into dif- service rendered, rather the beneficiaries pay. In hands to take care of children to relieve their ficulties that may need some form of expertise. difficult financial circumstances NachbarNET parents of the daily stress. There are experi- NachbarNET easily comes in here as they have can be asked for support. The mediation is free. enced adults and students often from Swiss Red a host of computer experts that are willing to NachbarNET is also a platform for social Cross babysitter course that provide the service. offer their professional services to the non avid network where people of different nationalities, computer user. background and age could meet. Last year it Learning and improvement of lan- launched a project called Nachbar Café where guages Dogs Run / Animal Care: people meet once a month to interact and We have only mentioned English, French, Many people in this country keep pets, and socialise. Chinese, above but there are other languages, such people do go on holidays creating a need NachbarNET is registered as a C-Organsiation of course. Languages like Spanish, Swahili, for somebody to take care of the pet when away. in 2007, and is under the patronage of the GGG, Hindi as well as other major European, African The care may include taking dogs for walk, and but it is still a legally independent body recognized and Asiatic languages. It is not difficult to find taking general care of animals when the owners by the canton of Basel-Stadt as a charitable organi- people who enjoy teaching their language and are not around. sation. It depends on donations for its activities. culture. Equally so, there are people willing to learn a language through exchange programme. Other areas of assistance include Leisure, Is NachbarNET’s membership made Compost, Plants Casting, Lunch Tables, up of all who need and render ser- Auto Dispatcher / Carriage Guidance for new residents. vices, old and young people? Another service the organisation provides, is “That’s a good question. We have over 1,000 contact for transportation. There are people who How does the organisation function? responses annually,” Mr. Pierre-Alain said. So we make their vehicle available for transportation People searching for any of the above men- cannot say that those in the demand category are purposes. Such people can be accessed at the tioned services could go to www.nachbarnetba- members. Normally we don’t have membership NachbarNET’s web site. Like in other services sel.ch section demand and supply page, and click per se. Those recognised as members are those the cost is negligible. on their area of interest. There is a form to be who offer services and have been called upon filled out and submitted after for the necessary regularly to render their services. But officially, Letter writing and Translation we do not run a membership form of organisa- Many migrants could not read or write Ger- tion. To be regularly called upon you have to man. When they receive letters from the Migra- “There are teachers for register two or three services you can render. tion office, their landlord, or insurance company they are left perplexed as they could hardly do subjects like Are there Africans and people of Af- anything about such letters without any help. rican descent who participate in your With a request to NachbarNET, the problem Mathematics, English, services? will be solved as there are retired experts in these Yes, we have a couple of active ‘members.’ fields who are ready to provide assistance. They German or French that Our members spread across nationalities, race, not only help with the translation, they can also NachbarNET can connect colour and religion. You have to be open-minded write the necessary replies and advise the person to be in our service which all in our programme on the next step to take. with parents whose know and accept. Gardening children need extra How do you check and balance the Gardening is not one of those chores that suitability of the people who partici- many home owners love doing especially when classes for some pate in your programme? they get older, their backyards are clear testi- subjects.” We check the details of the person who mony to show for that. On the other hand there applies, name, address, what he/she does and are people who have no garden but whose hobby where. It is after verifying these that we add an is to plant their own vegetables. individual’s name in our list. When the person With a request made through the organi- process. That means demand and supply can be is connected with the person who needs his/ sation a solution could be found. There are entered directly via organisation website. People her service we ask the latter to give us feedback people especially old people, who have a garden without Internet access can call NachbarNET after the first meeting, and after the completion but could no longer maintain it. Furthermore office for information. of the service. We rely very much on feedbacks. they do not want to hire professional gardern- A token fee is paid for services, and such a fee We do remove from our list those people who ers to take care of it for them. They are, on varies according to the service. For example ac- do not measure up to our expectation, especially the other hand, ready to exchange it with the companying someone for shopping, a visit to the if they make the same mistake two or three times understanding that the whole garden will be doctor or for a walk attracts a CHF.10 per hour – like going late to the client, or when clients taken care of by the hobby-gardener or who- fee. In the case of teaching the renumeration is complain of poor services rendered. ever needs it. CHF.20 per hour. NachbarNET does not run When a client lodges a complaint, we discuss

May/June 2016 17 INTEGRATION

NachbarNET Connects Neighbours for Cooperation and Mutual Benefite with them, especially the elderly ones who request payment from clients. Our aim is to create an learn and engage in integration process without that we do not send the same person to them for awareness of how Swiss people function, their even realising it. It’s worthy of encouraging one reason or another, especially that based on living relationship, and to get in contact with as there are many things to learn and gain in the person’s colour or nationality. We ask them other people, taking part in social activities and this platform more than in any other similar to judge by the person’s performances rather than learn how to spend their free time by engaging platforms. by the skin colour and nationality since there are in voluntary and charity services. This is an NachbarNET is not only a platform to get good and bad people everywhere. Sometimes important lesson. some daily needs satisfied, and to render rela- their complaints are based on prejudice. But if We are aware that many new migrants in tive assistance but also to earn some pocket the level of objection is serious or they insist, we their 30s and 40s find it difficult to get new money and learn how Swiss people function, send someone else as a replacement. social network. After work and during free and to understand their living relationship, days or weekends they don’t know what to do help to get in contact with other people, and What are some of the benefits, apart as their families are not here. So it is relieving engage in social activities for a little fraction from money, that people gain and and a good opportunity to have a platform like of what it would have normally cost. learn from your programme? ours where one can get somebody to spend time First we are not a commercial institution, so together, and engage in social and sporting We envisage further development in our financially we always emphasise on the token activities. Through NachbarNET they could activities.

und Übersetzungen, Gartenarbeit, Unterstützung NachbarNET – nach- am Computer, Hunde ausführen und Haustiere barschaftliche Hilfe und betreuen. Welche Nutzen haben die Teilnehmer dieses Netzwerks, abgesehen von den Zusammenarbeit finanziellen Vorteilen? Unser Ziel ist es aufzuzeigen, wie die Menschen NachbarNET ist ein 1998 gegründeter Verein, der in der Stadt Basel ein Mittei- in der Schweiz funktioneren, wie sie Beziehungen lungsnetz anbietet, um in der Nachbarschaft Dienstleistungen anzubieten oder leben und mit ihren Mitmenschen in Kontakt tre- Hilfe zu suchen, so dass beide Seiten davon profitieren können. Dafür wird eine ten, wie sie sich sozial engagieren und ihre Freizeit kleine Entschädigung bezahlt oder ein anderer Dienst angeboten. mit Freiwilligenarbeit bereichern können. Das ist ein wichtiges Lernfeld. Das Netzwerk ist für alle Einwohner der ausfüllen und einreichen. Wer keinen Interne- NachbarNET ist nicht nur eine Plattform, die Stadt offen und vermittelt auf unkomplizierte tanschluss hat, kann sich telefonisch auf dem hilft, den Alltag zu bewältigen und Unterstützung Weise (und ohne die berüchtigten Schweizer Büro von NachbarNET melden und erhält dort zu bekommen, das Netzwerk bietet auch die Reglementierungen) zwischen den Beteiligten. Es Unterstützung beim weiteren Vorgehen. Gelegenheit, ein Taschengeld zu verdienen, die dient auch als soziales Netzwerk, das Menschen Benutzt wird das Netzwerk unter anderem Schweizer besser zu verstehen, neue Menschen zusammenbringt um neue Erfahrungen zu machen von Pensionierten, Menschen mit kleinem Ar- kennenzulernen und am Gesellschaftsleben teil- und Bekanntschaften zu schliessen. beitspensum oder Studenten, die eine Dienst- zunehmen – dies alles zu einem Bruchteil der NachbarNET vermittelt Hilfeleistungen in 13 leistung brauchen, aber dafür nicht bezahlen üblichen Kosten. Bereichen des täglichen Lebens an, wie Niklaus können. In diesem Fall bieten sie an Stelle einer NachbarNET Pierre-Alain, der Geschäftsführer der Organisa- Entschädigung oft eine Gegenleistung an. Ein Erlkönigweg 30 / 4058 Basel tion, Africa Link gegenüber erklärt. Er betont, dass typisches Beispiel kommt im Bereich Bildung vor: Tel: 061 381 02 30 nicht alle vermittelten Dienste in diese Kategorien Ein Englischsprechender, will Deutsch lernen und Montag bis Donnerstag 8:30 - 10:30 Uhr fallen, da das Netzwerk auch offen ist für neue sucht Hilfe bei einer deutschsprachigen Person, Bedürfnisse oder für Hilfe in anderen Bereichen. die ihr Englisch verbessern möchte. Sie geben sich nun gegenseitig Unterricht. NachbarNET So funktioniert NachbarNET vermittelt, damit sich die beiden Lernenden in Das Netzwerk funktioniert aufgrund von der Nachbarschaft finden. Angebot und Nachfrage – wer eine Dienstleistung Folgende Bereiche gehören zum Angebot: braucht, fragt nach; wer Hilfe leisten will, bietet Begleitung von älteren Menschen, Nachhilfe für an. Beide Seiten können sich auf der Website des Schüler, Kinderbetreuung, Sprachen lernen, Fahr- nachbarnet.net 061 381 02 30 Vereins anmelden, das entsprechende Formular dienste und Transporte, Hilfe bei Schreibarbeiten

18 May/June 2016 PLATFORM

Platform on Migration and Development (mdplatform) Holds Inaugural Assembly By Samuel Polley/Calixte Ndzana

From left to right: Peter Aeberhard / Secretariat , Pascal Fendrich / Secretariat, Ramla Allani / Fondation Suisse du Service Social International (Tunisian Community Project living in Switzerland Project), Calixte Ndzana / Africa Link Magazine, Hamdija Kocic / Matica BiH , Khadija Jamac / Somlaliland Swiss, Olivier Feneyrol / Terres des Hommes Foundation Olivier Feneyrol, Francesca Albanello, Caritas, Secretary

The Swiss Civil Society Platform on Migration and Development (mdplatform) Already a core group that will monitor the an- held its inaugural general assembly on 10 March, 2016 in Berne. The mdplat- nual work plan was elected and its members will form represents different stakeholder groups from various categories, such as de- hold office for two years. velopment and migration associations, migrant associations and representatives from academic world and the private sector. Core group member / Organisation Calixte Ndzana / AfricaLink Magzine; Khadija The platform was implemented by a consor- The Academic working group expressed its Jamac / Somlaliland Swiss; Ramla Allani tium on behalf of the Swiss Civil Society’s Global interest in establishing contact with civil society / Fondation Suisse du Service Social Interna- Programme Migration & Development (GPMD). as well as to learn more about the practical experi- tional (Projet- Communauté Tunisienne Rési- With more than 60 participants, the first ences of migrant associations. They also dealt with dente en Suisse); Hamdija Kocic / Matica BiH; General Assembly exceeded the expectations of issues such as migration and trade, investment, Rosa Maria Losada / World Trade Institute; the secretariat. The participants were split into governance and development in Switzerland and Magdalena Urrejola / Gesellschaft für bedrohte three working groups: citizenship and integration. They stressed the Völker. * Migrant and Diaspora organisations, importance of research and proposed the linkage * Development organisations, of a number of studies so as to ease such research, Permanent members * Others which group the academia, human especially for civil society organisations. Consortium members are Caritas Switzer- rights and unions. The development organisations working group land (lead) and Helvetas Swiss Inter- coope- They each dealt with three questions after focussed mainly on the transfer of knowledge and ration. The Swiss Forum on Migration and which they presented the outcome of their delib- common development of methods and concepts to Population Studies and Terre des Hommes erations in a plenary session. reach common results. As with the first working are strategic partners of the consortium. The first group consisting of Migrant and -Di group, this group also highlighted the importance aspora organisations, highlighted the importance of capacity building. They identified labour im- Geert van Dok / Caritas Schweiz; Claudia of capacity development such as project design, migration, human rights, children, education and Paixão / HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation; advocacy, communication and logistics. They also empowerment as some of the key areas that should Olivier Feneyrol / Terres des Hommes Foun- discussed how the current humanitarian refugee enable them achieve the desired results. dation; Vacant / Secretariat (non-voting mem- crisis is being handled from a “migration and de- The recommendations that were made by the bers); Peter Aeberhard / Secretariat; velopment” perspective and how to raise awareness working groups will form the nucleus of the sec- Pascal Fendrich / Secretariat. and build bridges between expert knowledge and retariat’s 2016 annual work plan of the secretariat For more information go to migrants associations. that is expected to be drafted soon. www.Mdplatform.com.

May/June 2016 19 LEAD

72 HOURS BEFORE HIS DEMISE: and sundry, the young, the old, celebrated African, European and even Japanese musicians. His had Papa Wemba: Retirement associations with Youssou Ndour (Show me the Way), Koffi Olomide,(Wake Up) Barbara Kanam (Triple Option). Does Not Exist For Me But it was his association with Peter Gabriel that George Ola-Davies galvanized his international outlook. They were on a three-year world tour that took the group such Euro- It was 5a.m. in Abidjan, 6a.m. in Kinshasa and a voice went silent in the most pean cities as London, Paris, Lyon, Brussels, Rome, spectacular way. That voice had thrilled Africa and beyond for nearly four dec- Amsterdam, Berlin and Bordeaux among many oth- ades. It was that of Jules Shungu Wembadio Kibumba, popularly known as ers. The tour also took the group to various cities in Papa Wemba. the United States. His visit to Japan marked another milestone in his career. It was the first time Japanese Siar in an interview: “Retirement does not exist for musicians sought to blend their music with Rhumba me. I am still in the tunnel and I wish to see the and adopted the Congolese icon as one of theirs. more.” He spoke of transmitting his savoir faire to Many people speak of Viva La Musica which he generations yet to come. That moment, he said, will created in the 1970’s which was also a label. They come and “I will be there.” Sadly, those radiant wishes forget that his real musical career started as the lead were dashed 72 hours later. He was to return to Kin- vocalist of Zaiko Langa Langa. His carrier really shasa, in a wooden box in the hold of an aircraft, to kicked off when he went down to Kinshasa from be lifted by eight smart looking gentlemen in black his native Kassai Orientale Province as a villager in suit and white shirt. a mega city. He established himself and was a fighter Friends and relatives supporting Papa Wemba’s wife, Papa Wemba was a simple man. He fulfilled many till his death. 3rd right. of his cherished dreams professionally as well as in In the interview with Radio France, he paid tribute In his usual ebullient manner he was entertain- life in general. As late as August 2014, he crowned to Kabasele, (Le grand Kale) Franco, Papa Wendo, ing a crowded audience at the Festival des Musiques his 44-year-old love relationship with Marie Rose Pepe Kale Tabouley Rochereau, all of whom he had Urbaines d'Anoumabo, (FEMUA2) in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. The emotion in Matongé, Bandalingua, Messina, Kingambua, Kasavubu and all other quar- ters in Kinshasa was palpable. The wailings, recita- tion of lyrics of his innumerable songs by vendors, market women, and bystanders filled the air; Talk less of the blaring speakers in the city’s many bars and record stores. Musicians, government officials, close friends of Papa Wemba, and even his enemies spoke glowingly in unison as they hailed his illustrious career. Still the body was in faraway Abidjan where he slumped on stage as he was doing the closing session of that Papa Wemba night’s performance. (Mama Amazone) with a ceremonial church wedding a stint with. He would end with: «May their souls His death resonated in all of Africa and even in Kinshasa. The solemnization could be equated rest in peace.” Little did he know that he was on his beyond. In the Paris (African) district of “Chateau with some of his most successful concerts, albeit with way to joining them a few hours later. He spoke of Rouge,” a minute silence was observed for him at the religious tunes replacing his compositions and the the many lessons he learnt from them, how he had marketplace where he used to be a frequent visitor. choir not gyrating on stage. I remember coming out kept the flame of Congolese Rhumba burning against This was followed by wailings by those who shared a of the service at the St. Joseph church at Matonge - a all the odds of today’s fast moving world of hip hop, splice of his life when he lived in France in the 1980’s. valued programme clutched in my hand as my only World Music, Rap and other rhythms. In the Matonge district of Brussels that is home to souvenir - and he whispered to me as I congratulated He did not just stick on to Rhumba. He was one thousands of Congolese, the atmosphere was sombre him: “Brother, it was a long time promise. I have done of the architects of the Soukous movement which all day long that Sunday when the news broke out. it. We have done it.” He wanted to say more but the today dots the dance floors in many African settings. Many African capitals marked the period in different many solicitations prevented him. Mama Amazone When in 2011 I approached him to lead Congolese ways. In Gabon, for example, the airwaves was filled was always by his side even before tying the nuptial artists in composing a song that preached peace for the with his music all day long on Monday April 25. chord and she had a strict upbringing of their kids, Presidential and Parliamentary elections that had all Ouagadougou, Bamako, Lomé, Cotonou, Lusaka, none of whom took after their father’s musical career. the trappings to once again derail the fragile society, Nairobi all mourned in their fashion. Professionally, he had an unmeasurable success he did not hesitate for one second. He told me that Less than three days before he breathed his last on stage, in studios, training younger artists and as long as he was going to be preaching to the entire breath, he told Radio France International’s Claudy even on camera as an actor. He performed with all population and it was not going to be on the fringes (continued on page 22)

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72 HEURES AVANT SA DISPARITION: artistes qu’il a formés, et même devant les caméras, en tant qu’acteur. Il s’est produit avec tout le monde, des jeunes aux plus chevronnés et acclamés des Papa Wemba: “Pour moi, musiciens d’Afrique, d’Europe, et même du Japon. Il a chanté en duo avec Youssou N’Dour (Show me the la retraite n’existe pas” Way), Koffi OlomidéWake ( Up) et Barbara Kanam George Ola-Davies (Triple Option). Mais c’est son tandem avec Peter Gabriel qui a l’a Il était cinq heures du matin à Abidjan et six heures à Kinshasa quand une voix littéralement propulsé sur la scène internationale. s’est tue de la plus spectaculaire façon qui soit. Cette voix qui enchantait l’Afrique Les deux artistes ont effectué ensemble une tournée et le monde depuis près de quarante ans, c’était celle de Jules Shungu Wembadio mondiale de trois ans qui les a conduits dans de nom- Pene Kikumba, plus connu sous le nom de Papa Wemba. breuses villes d’Europe (comme Londres, Paris, Lyon, Avec son exubérance coutumière, il était en train de régaler le public venu nombreux au Festival des musiques urbaines d’Anoumabo (FEMUA2) à Abidjan, en Côte d’Ivoire. À Matonge comme à Bandalungwa, Masina, Kingambua, Kasa-Vubu et dans tous les autres quartiers de Kinshasa, l’émotion était palpable, tandis que s’élevaient sur les marchés, dans le concert des lamentations, les paroles de ses innombrables chansons reprises par les vendeurs, les femmes et les chalands. Sans parler des haut-parleurs fonctionnant à plein volume dans les nombreux bars et magasins de disques de la ville. Des musiciens, des représentants du gouvernement, des amis proches de Papa Wemba, et même ses ennemis ont unanimement salué son illustre carrière. Sa dépouille se trouvait pourtant encore dans cette lointaine Abidjan, où il s’était effondré sur scène vers la fin du concert qu’il donnait ce soir-là. Le corps de Papa Wemba en chapelle ardente L’annonce de sa mort a retenti partout en Afrique, et même au-delà. À Château Rouge, quartier africain bois soulevé par huit hommes en grande tenue, portant Bruxelles, Rome, Amsterdam, Berlin et Bordeaux) et de Paris, une minute de silence a été observée sur la costume noir et chemise blanche. d’ailleurs. Ils se sont également produits dans plusieurs place du marché où il se rendait fréquemment, suivie Papa Wemba était un homme simple. Il avait réalisé villes des États-Unis. Par la suite, la carrière de Papa des gémissements de tous ceux qui l’avaient connu à un grand nombre des rêves qu’il nourrissait, tant sur Wemba a connu une nouvelle étape importante à l’époque où il vivait en France, dans les années 80. le plan professionnel que personnel. Ce n’est qu’en l’occasion de la visite de l’artiste au Japon. Pour la Dans le quartier bruxellois de Matonge, où vivent des août 2014 que ses 44 ans d’amour avec Marie-Rose première fois, des musiciens japonais étaient désireux milliers de Congolais, l’atmosphère est restée sombre (Mama Amazone) avaient été officiellement scellés par de mêler leurs notes aux rythmes de la rumba. C’est tout au long de ce dimanche, après l’annonce de la un mariage religieux à Kinshasa. À l’exception de ses ainsi qu’ils adopté la légende congolaise. nouvelle. De nombreuses capitales africaines ont mar- compositions qui avaient été remplacées par des chants Nombreux sont ceux qui évoquent le groupe Viva qué l’événement, chacune à sa manière. Au Gabon, religieux et du chœur qui ne tournait pas sur scène, La Musica qu’il avait fondé dans les années 70, et par exemple, les radios ont diffusé sa musique pendant cette célébration avait été en tout point semblable à qui était aussi un label. Ils oublient que sa carrière toute la journée du lundi 25 avril. Ouagadougou, l’un de ses concerts les plus réussis. Je me souviens, musicale a véritablement débuté alors qu’il était le Bamako, Lomé, Cotonou, Lusaka et Nairobi ont au moment de quitter l’église St Joseph de Matonge, chanteur principal de Zaïko Langa Langa. Mais c’est exprimé leur deuil à leur façon. serrant dans ma main un programme de cérémonie lorsqu’il a quitté sa province natale du Kasaï-Oriental “Pour moi, la retraite n’existe pas”, avait-il déclaré au en guise de seul souvenir, qu’il m’avait murmuré à pour gagner Kinshasa qu’elle a vraiment décollé. Le micro de l’animateur Claudy Siar lors d’une interview l’oreille, au moment où je lui adressais mes félicitations: villageois qu’il était s’est alors emparé de la mégapole, diffusée sur Radio France Internationale moins de “Mon frère, c’était une vieille promesse. Je l’ai tenue. où il s’est établi et donné jusqu’à sa mort. trois jours avant son décès. “Je suis toujours dans le Nous l’avons tenue.” Il avait voulu en dire plus, mais Dans son entretien sur Radio France Internationale, il tunnel, et j’ai envie d’en savoir davantage.” Il s’était les nombreuses sollicitations dont il était l’objet l’en avait rendu hommage à Kabasele (Le grand Kallé), à confié sur son désir de transmettre son savoir-faire aux avaient empêché. Mama Amazone a toujours été à ses Franco, Papa Wendo, Pepe Kalle et Tabu Ley Roche- générations futures. “Ce moment viendra, et je répon- côtés, et ce, bien avant que leur union ne soit scellée. reau, avec lesquels il avait brièvement collaboré. “Paix drai présent”, avait-il alors affirmé. Malheureusement, Elle a donné une éducation stricte à leurs enfants, à leur âme”, avait-il conclu, sans savoir que la sienne ne soixante-douze heures plus tard, ces vœux ardents dont aucun n’a embrassé la carrière musicale du père. tarderait pas à les rejoindre quelques heures plus tard. devaient être réduits en poussière, tandis qu’un avion Professionnellement, il a connu un succès prodigieux, Il avait évoqué les nombreuses leçons que ces grands ramenait son corps à Kinshasa, dans un cercueil en à la fois sur scène et en studio, auprès des jeunes noms lui avaient apprises, expliquant comment il avait

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Papa Wemba:“Pour moi, la retraite n’existe pas” plaît et je les soutiendrai toujours, du moment que c’est pour leur bien.” Mais il a également connu des heures sombres. En entretenu la flamme de la rumba congolaise envers et Sa présence sur scène était électrisante. Il bondissait, 2004, la justice française l’avait reconnu coupable contre la déferlante du hip-hop, de la World music, roulait des mécaniques et entraînait la foule qui repre- d’avoir fait entrer illégalement des étrangers en du rap et d’autres rythmes actuels. nait par cœur les refrains de ses nombreuses chansons. France, le condamnant à une peine de prison pour Il ne s’est pas contenté de se consacrer à la rumba. Il Il s’efforçait de rassembler la jeune génération, non cela. Il avait reconnu avoir accepté de l’argent de a été l’un des architectes du soukous, un mouvement seulement à Kinshasa où il vivait, mais partout en certaines de ces personnes, soutenant toutefois que musical qui s’est propagé jusqu’à animer bien des République démocratique du Congo, de Lubum- c’était dans le but de les extraire de leur misère en pistes de danse en Afrique aujourd’hui. bashi à Mbandaka, en passant par Bukavu, Goma, République démocratique du Congo et de leur offrir En 2011, lorsque je lui avais proposé de diriger un Kananga, Kindu et même en République du Congo une vie meilleure en France. Tous étaient entrés en groupe d’artistes congolais afin de composer une voisine. Ceci n’est aujourd’hui plus qu’un rêve si l’on Europe en tant qu’artistes de remplacement pour son chanson pour la paix en vue des élections prési- partage l’avis d’un de ses successeurs, Koffi Olomide, groupe. Sa réputation en avait été considérablement dentielles et parlementaires qui avaient toutes les qui a déclaré, à l’annonce de sa disparition, “[qu’]avec ternie, l’Angleterre lui refusant même un visa d’entrée chances, une fois de plus, de faire dérailler une société sa mort, la musique congolaise a[vait] perdu toutes ses l’année suivante. déjà fragile, il n’avait pas hésité une seule seconde. Il valeurs”. Peut-être pas toutes, mais une grande partie, Après avoir purgé une partie de sa peine, il avait m’avait répondu qu’à partir du moment où son prêche car la tendance aujourd’hui consiste à vivre avec son été libéré et renvoyé au pays, où il fut accueilli en était destiné à l’ensemble de la population et qu’il ne temps, c’est-à-dire celui d’un mélange des genres qui héros. Cet événement avait profondément changé risquait pas d’être récupéré à des fins politiques, il risque fort d’avoir raison de la rumba authentique. sa vie. Devenu fervent Catholique, il était revenu était prêt. En dehors de sa carrière musicale, c’est sans doute son aux sources de sa carrière de choriste, mais cette fois La voix angélique et haut perchée de Papa Wemba style vestimentaire flamboyant qui a le plus marqué pour composer des chants religieux aux rythmes s’était alors élevée, magistrale et dominant les solos de les esprits. En effet, il portait toujours de coûteux de rumba. guitare et les guitares rythmiques si caractéristiques vêtements de créateurs et on le surnommait “le pape Papa Wemba nous a quittés. Pour son enterrement, de la musique congolaise. Cette voix était reconnais- des sapeurs”, le terme “sapeurs” signifiant ici “Société il a reçu sur sa terre natale les honneurs dus à une sable entre toutes. Il était resté fidèle à sa rumba, ce des ambianceurs et personnes élégantes”. vedette et à une personnalité respectée. Des officiels qui lui avait d’ailleurs valu le surnom de “The King” Il avait un jour déclaré sur une chaîne de télévision du gouvernement au plus haut niveau, des politiciens, (“Le Roi”), nous offrant de magnifiques chansons, de Kinshasa qu’il avait 34 enfants, dont il s’occupait des artistes et des fans venus de tout le pays lui ont comme Maria Valencia (1992), Mwana Molokai, Kuru tous. “À la maison, je ne suis pas Papa Wemba. Je ne rendu un dernier hommage le lundi 2 mai. Il nous Yaka, Amalengo, Africain comme toi, et une kyrielle suis pas ce personnage que l’on célèbre. Je suis tout a quittés, mais sa musique reste vivante. d’autres qui continueront d’embellir son répertoire simplement Papa. Je n’ai jamais imposé quoi que ce Adieu à toi, Jules Shungu Wembadio Pene Kikumba, bien après sa mort. soit à mes enfants. Ils sont libres de faire ce qui leur dit Papa Wemba.

Papa Wemba: Retirement Does Not Exist For Me 2004 he was convicted and sentenced to a jail term in (continued from page 20) France for bringing in illegal aliens into the country. He admitted taking money from some of the people of any political grouping, he was ready. the news of his death: “With his death, Congolese but claimed it was to take them out of their misery Papa Wemba’s angelic high pitched chord soared music has lost all its values.” Maybe not all but a huge in the D.R. Congo to a better life in France. They markedly above the strings of the distinctive Congo- slice as the tendency today is to roll with the times had all come into Europe as back up artists for his lese solo and rhythm guitars. That voice could hardly, with different woven melange that may engulf the group. The conviction cost him a lot of credibility and if ever, be mistaken. He stuck mainly to his Rhumba real Rhumba music. was refused visa to go to Britain the following year. music for which he was labelled “The King” and Away from his musical career he would be best After spending a fraction of his jail term he graced the scene with such tunes as Maria Valencia, remembered for his flamboyant style of dressing: He was released and went home to a hero’s welcome. (1992) Mwana Molokai, Kuru Yaka, Amalengo, was always in expensive designer clothes and was That transformed his life and he became an ardent Africain comme toi, and a myriad of others that will nicknamed le pape des sapeurs” or the Pope of Sapeurs. Christian and went back to where he started off as embellish his repertoire even in death. Sapeurs itself means (la Société des ambianceurs et a chorister, but this time composing religious songs On stage he was electrifying. He would jump, personnes élégantes,) loosely translated as “a society with Rhumba rhythms. swagger and would move the crowd with him as they of posers and people of elegance” Papa Wemba may have gone. He received a render the chorus of his many songs. He once told a television channel in Kinshasa that fitting burial of a star and a respected personality To the younger generation, he had been working he had 34 children and that all of them was being in his homeland. Government officials from the to bring them together not only in Kinshasa where cared for. “At home I am not Papa Wemba. I am not highest level, politicians, artists, well-wishers from he lived but across the whole of the D.R. Congo from that celebrated figures. I am simply Papa. I have not all over the country paid their last respect to him Lubumbashi, through Bukavu, Goma, Kananga, imposed anything on my children to do. They are on Monday May 2. He is gone but his music is still Mbandaka, kindu and even in neighbouring Republic free to do whatever they want to and we will support very much alive. of Congo. This has now remained a dream but as one them as long as it is for their lifelong benefit.” Fare thee well, Jules Shungu Wembadio Kibumba, of the offspring, Koffi Olomide said just after hearing But there were some dark sides to his life’s story. In Papa Wemba.

22 May/June 2016 ECONOMY

AMB. COMISSÁRIO PRESENTS SCSA where he held talks with Chancellor Angela Merkel on the prospects of assistance with peace dialogue Mozambique’s Five Main with RENAMO. RENAMO itself has substantial support, which some observers argue is because of the apparent misuse of power by the FRELIMO party Economic Objectives that has been in power since 1994. Rural dwellers feel By Samuel Polley left out of the economic boom whilst at the same time those within the FRELIMO hierarchy have been The situation was hardly propitious for the Mozambican Ambassador to Switzer- amassing massive fortunes. The Ambassador said land and Permanent representative to United Nations Organisation at Geneva that the President is “prepared to do anything within (UNOG), Pedro Comissário, when he met with the Swiss Chamber of Commerce the constitution,” to resolve the current situation. for Southern Africa (SCSA.) During the talks in Germany, President Nyusi and a large delegation of business people discussed Bank, the African Development Bank (ADB), the economic ties between Germany and Mozambique. European Union, the United Kingdom, Austria, France, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Canada, Sweden, Before the resurgence of the current crisis in Switzerland, Ireland, and Finland. 2014, growth rate of Mozambique was 7%, but the Ambassador said, “For the first time this year, we are These did not appear to have deterred Ambassa- not expecting to even reach 6%. The most optimistic dor Comissário from painting the existing brilliant figure is that expected to be about 5.7%.” While in picture of his country’s opportunities. He urged general terms this is good, he said, “In the current SwissCham to pursue its long nurtured programme world economic climate, Mozambique will be dis- of opening a chamber in Mozambique assuring them appointed with signs that their economic growth is that a close relationship between his office and SCSA beginning to slow down.” He described the current was one of his priorities. He also promised to work period as transitional as the government is taking hand in hand with them to make that possible. serious measures to revitalise the economy.

As part of his presentation he spoke of the suc- As the government continues to invite foreign cessful multi-party elections in 2014 which was the investors to Mozambique the Ambassador assured fifth since 1994 after the Rome peace deal in 1992 SwissCham members that his country has been that brought an end to the seemingly interminable learning from the mistakes of other African nations civil war. It was the first time, he said, that a third “that have put all their eggs in one basket”. Rather party (The Mozambique Democratic Movement) than just focussing on the oil and gas markets, which Ambassador Comissario joined the political foray in addition to the two well are vulnerable to external influences, it is seeking to established RENAMO and FRELIMO. The MDM boost the agricultural sector, which he says is cur- The meeting was to present the country’s favour- even won 17 seats in the 250 seat-parliament, he told rently “dormant.” Tourism, which has an unfulfilled able conditions for foreign investors and to convince them. ‘That this time we had a third party, shows the potential in Mozambique requires “further invest- the chamber to join the group of investors that had vitality of our politics, and also the fragmentation of ment in infrastructure.” He explained that many of been helping Mozambique’s economy grow and the dualism of RENAMO and FRELIMO.” the lodges and hotels along the coastline were built providing employment for its teeming population. and owned by South Africans, which is good because Ambassador Comissário reminded his audience they encourage tourism but one of the downside of But the meeting came against the backdrop of of Mozambique’s long drawn civil war. But he also such ownership is it does not bring tangible profits a myriad of hiccups hitting the country which was told them of the current crisis in certain parts of to Mozambique as the funds are repatriated. hitherto considered one of the success stories on the the country. He said that the opposition party, RE- African continent. NAMO, have been carrying out daily attacks adding The diplomat enumerated his country’s five main “even though we had successful elections in 2014 we economic objectives as: Once blighted by a civil war that altered all forms have this negative situation that results in violence.” • Achieving economic growth of 5.7% per an- of development, Mozambique resurged from that RENAMO leader, Alphonso Dhlakama, he says, num; previously this was set at 7.5% growth. dull period with significant economic growth and “expects to win, but he does not succeed. When he • Encourage investment they are trying to “im- a seemingly healthy political climate until very re- loses, he goes to the bush and starts fighting again.” prove the business environment”, making it easy to cently when 14 donor nations and funding agencies He also believes that RENAMO have not given up accept business into the country. suspended financial aid to Maputo. The suspension all their weapons since the peace agreement. • Build structural economic infrastructure, for came in response to revelations about over a billion Ambassador Comissário is just one of the many example road networks, which are currently receiving USD worth of undisclosed government loans. senior government officials making a strident effort to a lot of investment. The budget support group, known as the Pro- attract investors into his country. On April 19, Presi- • Reduce unemployment and gramme Aid Partners (PAPs), consists of the World dent Filipe Nyusi was himself in Berlin, Germany • Reorganise the public administration sector.

May/June 2016 23 ECONOMY

order to find solution to the problem. He outlined a was quick to point out both the negative and posi- number of reasons for this recent migration. Firstly, tive aspects of doing business with China. “In my he said, it is the instability caused by RENAMO opinion, the negatives are the way they do business which wants to wholly control the provinces where in some sectors”. He alluded to their lack of respect they won majority seats during the 2014 election. for the environment and sustainability, particularly “They used those neighbouring territories to ter- in the forestry sector, where he says he has person- rorise and wipe out the authority of the central ally seen forests being completely devastated by government, attacking government institutions and Chinese logging. “It is not only a problem of the people who sympathised with FRELIMO.” But in Chinese, it is our problem as well.” Unscrupulous addition he said these areas had been hit by severe business people that are looking for quick profit drought and famine and so the people have been at any cost do allow people to come in and cut the looking for solace elsewhere. The foreign minister trees just because they have money. “ had himself gone to meet with his compatriots in neighbouring Malawi to where they fled in large When addressing the issue of government-to- numbers and reassured them of the government’s government relationships, Ambassador Comissário support with a promise that everything was being said: “With China it is better than with Europe; done to facilitate their return rapidly and safely. you don’t have conditionalities. Getting credit In his closing remarks, the Ambassador spoke from European governments or institutions is Mr. Saager of China’s influence in Mozambique and the rest of not based on morality or any other standard, it is Africa in response to queries from his interlocutors just based on unilateral vision of what European On the question of the alarming mass exodos about Beijing’s growing influence on the continent. interests are.” He then compared the sanctions of Mozambicans in recent months he said: “This China ranks amongst Africa’s biggest trading part- on Zimbabwe from European nations, due to is also a matter of concern to the government”, ner and in 2014 completed $166 billion of trade human rights violations, to the lack of sanctions adding that the authorities have sent delegations with the continent. This figure is expected to hit on Saudi Arabia. “Double standards” according to the affected areas on a fact finding mission in the $1.7 trillion mark by 2030. Mr. Comissário to the Ambassador.

Mozambique: Govt Looks to China Will China help? This is where Beijing comes in. President Nyusi for Financial Help is currently in China for a week-long official visit, accompanied by a delegation of high-ranking govern- Mozambique is struggling with a financial and economic crisis. After his pleas ment officials. "I want to point out that China is one for help went unheeded by Europe, President Nyusi is now hoping for a bailout of our most important economic partners," he said from China, wrote Antonio Cascais in the eastern province of Jiangsu where he praised trade relations with Beijing. A meeting with Chinese Mozambique's head of state Filipe Nyusi (shown barked on a charm offensive which took him to President Xi Jinping is scheduled in the coming days. above) is under heavy pressure. For months he had Brussels and Washington. According to analysts, This is the head of state's second bilateral meet- been denying media reports about financial scandals, this didn't work as well as he had hoped. Donors ing in the last six months. The first occurred on the corruption and misappropriation of state monies. But were more interested in understanding how the fringes of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation in April Nyusi had to own up to hidden public debt undisclosed debt came about. The loans were made (FOCAC) in South Africa in December 2015. At to the tune of 1.25 billion euro ($1.4 billion), ac- by the Swiss bank Credit Suisse and the VTB the time, Xi pledged up to $60 billion to the African cumulated by his predecessor and mentor Armando bank of Russia, ostensibly to public enterprises continent in the form of soft loans and development Guebuza. Nyusi's admission further highlighted the EMATUM and Proindico. Both banks have aid. Mozambique acquired the status of "priority depth of the country's economic crisis. refused to comment. Independent analysts found partner" and was promised more than $5 billion Western donors reacted swiftly: the International out that a large part of the undeclared loans was from China in the following two years. Monetary Fund stopped the transfer of the second used to buy arms. The Chinese loans flowed mostly to big construc- installment of a previously authorized credit and The upshot was a steep increase in public debt, tion projects, including a power line between the suspended ongoing negotiations with Maputo on which now represents more than 70 percent of the provinces of Zambezia and Nampula in northern financial aid. The group of 14 main donors, known country's Gross Domestic Product. In 2012, before Mozambique. This project alone received $400 as G14 for short, temporarily suspended financial Mozambique was hit by a drop in commodity million. The state-owned newspaper "China Daily" support for the state budget. And the US announced prices, it was a mere 42 percent. called the East African country a "rough diamond" a review of bilateral development cooperation. Recently the government publicly apolo- that was waiting to be polished by its most important gized for the scandal. It promised to reduce Asian partner. It went on to say that Mozambique The president's apology the deficit without increasing taxes or cutting was a "golden gate into southern Africa", a "territory Nyusi, who was elected president in 2015, is expenditure any further, a move analysts believe with boundless natural resources" and "an enviable trying hard to limit the fallout. Recently he em- is impossible. geographic location."

24 May/June 2016 BOOK FAIR

SALON DU LIVRE ET DE LA PRESSE DE GENÈVE Le 13ème Prix Ahmadou Kourouma attribué à Mbarek Beyrouk Par Marie Rumignani

Dans le cadre du Salon africain du livre, de la presse et de la culture de Genève, pération suisse (DDC) et par l’Organisation le Prix littéraire Ahmadou Kourouma, dédié à la mémoire de l’écrivain du même Internationale de la Francophonie, récompense nom, a été remis le vendredi 29 avril au mauritanien Mbareck Beyrouk pour son un ouvrage, un essai ou une fiction consacré à roman « Le tambour des larmes ». l’Afrique noire, et dont l’esprit d’indépendance, de lucidité et de clairvoyance s’inscrit dans le Decernée en présence de Madame Chirstiane intitulé Nouvelles du désert. Aux éditions Elyzad droit fil de l’héritage légué par le grand écrivain Kourouma, l’oeuvre lauréate de 2016 raconte paraissent Pour qui refleurira le printemps ? dans ivoirien. l’histoire de Rayhana, jeune fille de bonne fa- le volume Rêves d’hiver au petit matin et le roman mille, non mariée, et qui entame une grossesse. Sa Le Griot de l’émir. Auteur reconnu en Mauri- Ces cinq dernières années, le Prix Ahmadou mère l’oblige à abandonner son bébé pour éviter le tanie, il écrit pour que sa culture ne meure pas. Kourouma a été remis à : déshonneur. Rayhana s’enfuit en emportant avec 2015 : Terre Ceinte (Présence Africaine) de elle le tambour de la tribu. Célébration du désert Le Sénégalais Moahmed Mbougar Sarr, Moahmed Mbougar Sarr et de ses contradictions, sur fond d'intrigues fa- lauréat 2015, et le Togolais Sami Tchak, lauréat 2014 : Ceux qui sortent dans la nuit (Grasset) miliales et de rivalités amoureuses passionnelles, 2007, étaient présents à la remise du prix, de de Mutt-lon

M. Mbareck Beyrouk avec le chèque de son prix M. Mbareck avec un exemplaire de son livre le roman rend compte de la difficile rencontre même que l’ambassadeur de Mauritanie aux 2013 : Le terroriste noir (Seuil) de Tierno entre l'univers séculaire des peuples nomades et Nations Unies à Genève, son Excellence Madame Monénembo une modernité parfois agressive. Salka Mint Bilal Yamar et Monsieur Ridha Boua- 2012 : Notre-Dame du Nil (Gallimard – Conti- bid, représentant permanent de l’Organisation nents noirs) de Scholastique Mukasonga, Né en 1957 à Aztar, dans le Nord Maurita- Internationale de la Francophonie auprès des 2011 : Photo de groupe au bord du fleuve (Actes nien, Mbareck Beyrouk a étudié le droit avant de Nations Unies. L’auteure haïtienne Ketly Mars, Sud) d’Emmanuel Dongala devenir journaliste. En 1988, il crée le premier lauréate du Prix Ivoire 2015, assistait également journal indépendant de son pays et se bat pour la à la cérémonie. Avec le soutien de la Direction du Dévelop- liberté de presse et d’opinion. Nouvelliste avant pement et de la Coopération (DDC) tout, il publie son premier roman Et le ciel a Le Prix Ahmadou Kourouma, soutenu par et de l’Organisation Internationale de la oublié de pleuvoir en 2007, suivit par un recueil la Direction du Développement et de la Coo- Francophonie.

May/June 2016 25 MEETING

FIRST SWISS ALPHA GROUP MEETINGS SPRING 2016 and experience to brainstorm strategies and solutions, and drive their businesses forward. Business Leaders Take “Our members leave these monthly meetings with clear strategies mapped out, and step-by- step implementation plans tailored to their own Control of Their Businesses unique business requirements.” Membership of an Alpha Group is exclusive and Move Forward with a limit of 20 members, and a strict ‘no-com- By Staff Reporter petition’ policy. To ensure that there is no rivalry no two members operate in the same business The Alpha Group (TAG) which brings together entrepreneurs for peer-to-peer sector. And the ‘broad-spectrum’ approach to exchange and support in a unique, member-driven experience held its inaugu- membership also ensures that members bring ral meeting in Switzerland on April 14. The meeting was held in Schlieren, and together the widest possible range of knowle- brought together 20 participants from different business sectors. dge, skills and experience to assist each other in achieving maximum results. The TAG programme aims to assist local “Membership gives business owners and senior businesses double their profits within two to decision makers regular access to their very own three years. So said Ms. Patricia Jehle, who was external ‘board of advisors’ dedicated to assisting appointed the Group’s Regional Director for the them fulfil their commercial ambitions. In addi- two areas for English-speaking groups. tion they do have access to online resources, and She said “The Alpha Group is part of the a global network of contacts. global Noble Manhattan group, which has an The Alpha Group’s Managing Director, outstanding track-record of aiding business Colin Lindsay, said: “The Group aims to assist leaders achieve significant changes and develop- businesses to double their profits within two to ments in their businesses. At monthly advisory three years. That may seem ambitious, but Noble board meetings, TAG members participate in Manhattan has an established history of members workshops focusing on key elements of business achieving much more than this in many cases.” development covering a wide range of topics, and Ms. Jehle is now establishing groups in the learn best practices from other business leaders Zürich and Baden areas for existing businesses during intensive strategic design sessions.” seeking new growth and increased profits. Members also receive personalized assistance in progressing projects and overcoming pro- For Further information, contact Patricia at blems through ‘mastermind’ sessions. During [email protected] these sessions, she added, fellow members and Details could be found at our website: Ms. Patricia Jehle business leaders combine their collective wisdom www.the-alpha-group.biz

26 May/June 2016 BOOK: NEW PUBLICATION In a world characterized by violence and conflict in many regions, there is brokenness that occurs at the personal, family, com- munity, and societal levels in virtually all countries of the world as we push into the second decade of the twenty-first century. Every- where there is the need for the reconstruction of lives, families, communities, and whole countries and regi- ons. This need manifests most strongly in Africa, which has had more than its fair share of disruption and brokenness. «A time to build» models the re- construction strategy of Nehemiah, a Jewish exile and cup-bearer to the Per- sian Emperor Artaxerxes who was appointed Go- vernor of Judea by the Em- peror in the 5th century BC to reconstruct the broken walls of Jerusalem. His strategy is fresh and rele- vant to individuals, fami- lies, communities and na- tions needing reconstruc- tion today.

Available at: Trafford bookstore/Time to build: www.trafford.com Amazon: Amazon.com/Time to build May/June 2016 27 FORUM

SAF’s Dialogue With Police Yielding Fruits By Staff Reporter Sincere and objective dialogue leads to understanding, and understanding in this case leads to respect which the Swiss African Forum (SAF) and Police in canton Berne aim at to address their differences.

need to have a round • The discussions were very open and productive; table discussion to un- touching on cultural issues, proper education and derstand each other, orientation, as well as human rights. the cultural divide and • Twice Open Forums were held in Berne in the system in opera- which the African community met with the police tion.” and engaged in face to face objective dialogue. He added that there And once in Biel. was a need to put con- • A meeting of heads of African Organisations fidence-building meas- was earlier held in March 2015 to update the ures in place, a situa- community on what SAF is doing and to seek tion where fear of those their support and cooperation. who are to protect the • As a follow up, SAF held a forum for the African community take them community in cooperation with African Diaspora at a glance as potential Council and the ‘Ubuntu Arbeitsgruppe’ to r-l:Giorgio Andreoli and Annette (GGGfon), Issa Abdullahi (SAF), suspects, “ is not ac- discuss racial issues and also to update the com- Manuel Willy Regional Police Chief Berne, Mess Barry (Stadtrat Berne), Richard Fonje (Musician) and representative of SDC. ceptable”. munity in order to see a unified way forward in To embark on the the Dialogue with the Police. That such a dialogue has been welcomed by project they needed a partner at least which they • An Info Flyer on the rights and privileges of Police authorities in canton Biel and Zurich, and sought and found in GGGfon who have been busy the members of the community and the Police more cantons are positively considering same, documenting Police harassment. Together they was produced and distributed in African Centres, shows that the Dialogue is appreciated as a right proposed this project with the help of Contact- Integration offices, Asylum centres and African means to tame the unplatable relationship between citoyennetes, who supported the project through Embassies, as well as to individuals. the police and African community in the country. organise Dialogue 1 and Dialogue 2. The Forums have created awareness among the Earlier this year the SAF in collaboration Mr Abdullahi expressed African community’s African community of their rights and privileges, with Gemeinsam Gegen Rassismus and Gewalt appreciation to among others,the GGGfon, the and opportunities for both parties to express (GGGfon) held a session on the ‘Dialogue Project Canton Police Berne especially Mr Manuel Willi themselves in general and individual view. with the Police’ at the Kornhaus, Berne. At the the Regional Chief, ISA Bern, KI Bern “for their A forum like this also offers the community well-attended gathering was a cross section of the support, cooperation, patience and tolerance.” the rare chance to assess themselves on the ques- African Community from all over Canton Bern In the course of the project: tions: Who are we? What can we do? What do and neighbouring cantons, which was graced by • Several small round table meetings regarding we stand for? What are our advantages and dis- the Police Regional Chief Mr Manuel Willie, trust building measures were held with the Police. advantages? Can we stand in one voice against a representatives of Swiss Development Corpora- tion (SDC), Kompetenzzentrum Bern, ISA Bern, diplomats and media. This was as a backdrop of accusation and counter-accusation by the two parties. The African community had always accused Police of engag- ing in an act of aggressiveness, indiscriminate controls, harassments and lack of respect for their members. On the other hand, the Police had complained that Africans tend to be aggressive when ‘controlled’. The National coordinator of SAF, Issa Abdul- lahi recalled that the ‘Dialogue Project with po- lice’ “was initiated as an outcome of a brainstorm- ing session where we agreed that a Dialogue with police should be employed as a means of finding a lasting solution rather than confrontation. We A cross section of the attendees

28 May/June 2016 FORUM

common cause? How do we react to those who but more is needed to mobilise the community to Africans and it has become part of the education are soiling our name? create more awareness of the development among material for the police, While the participants admitted and acknowl- their peers in the country. • The Police participated actively in the Football edged that the job of the police is important, and What has been achieved has been achieved event in 2013 and the Cultural festival in 2015, the community should not interfere with their according to the National Co-ordinator include: • The Police have also intensified their efforts to job, they also insisted that they must be addressed • Full recognition and appreciation of our prob- recruit qualified and interested Africans into the with respect. lems by the Police and the media, Cantonal Police Force, “Respect must be from both sides. We have • A visible improvement in the way the police • Other Cantons have indicated interest in this however made it clear that what we are calling for confront us, initiative, is that the community be treated just like others,” • The Police Chief acknowledged that the Project • Human rights issues and some outcomes of Dr Sakem a key member of SAF explained. has been helpful and useful, and has developed this Dialogue have been imbedded into the Police “No controls based on the colour of the skin interest in further cooperation on similar projects training Programme, and no harassment,” added Doumbia Morisara in the future, SAF explained, “To win some respect and of SAF. • Info Card on the rights and privileges of both recognition demands a lot of investment in terms The Project made some visible achievements, sides have been produced and distributed to of time and resources. It is a worthy investment.”

Some officials of SAF at the Dialogue Forum Another cross section of attendees

In the recent Annual General Meeting new Meet Kenya Swiss Connection councillors were elected and committees’ chairper- sons appointed. The association can now embark By Correspondent projects chosen project to be either executed here on The Kenya Swiss Connection (KSC) inaugurated the founding of the association in Kenya. Also expected is the registration of a sav- recently in Switzerland with an all-night social gathering which brought Kenyans ings and credit union (SACCO) for the members, all over Switzerland and neighbouring countries together in line with its aims. which will give members an advantage in matters of personal development, finance and project manage- In a brief chat with Africa Link, the President “We have brought many speakers, from an ment back in Kenya. of KSC, Mrs Sara Müller-Okello said: “In our bid aspiring Kenyan presidential candidate, seasoned The new officials of the association are: . Sara to learn different cultures while living here, we did Swiss politicians to ordinary people to speak at our Müller-Okello, President ; Charles Njau, Secre- not only discover how diverse they are, but we also events since KSC was launched. They had taken tary General; Emmanuel Baraza, Vice President; saw why it`s important to try and bridge them.” to the podium with emotional and life changing Ramadhan Mohamed, Treasurer; Mary Scherer- This motivated some Kenyans with some Swiss presentations,” she said. She added that KSC plans Munywoki, Chairperson Youth and Gender, Lucy to set out to found the association with the moral to continue in this trend, and looking forward to Oyubo-Osterwalder, Chairperson Communication, and financial support of some cooperate bodies, welcoming people who will speak on various issues Suleiman Jembe, Chairman Planning and Develop- governments and individuals resulting in the of- like current affairs, history, traditions, business etc. ment; Jael Blind, Association Secretary and Anna ficial launch of the Kenya Swiss Connection on KSC is currently, voluntarily run by an execu- Kabibi Kambi, Chairperson Social. the 28 Nov 2015. tive council made up of nine councillors and the The Kenya Swiss Connection is planning several The KSC aims among others at fostering unity standing committees. Members are regularly invited social events for it´s members, sponsors and friends among Kenyans residing in Switzerland and to general meetings and non-members are also free these include the Family Grill Party on 30 July 2016 neighbouring countries and also provides a forum to join, on condition that they adhere to our rules at Adligenswil, Luzern and the Mashujaa Day on for anyone in these countries interested in Kenya. and regulations. 29 Oct 2016 in Zurich.

May/June 2016 29 FASHION

Frank Osodi: You’ve been on the quiet side for a while. What has been happening to Designing for women brings you? I’m there in my studio, working. I have had my own fair share of all these shows. I only do out creativity in me shows that I’m directly involved in, so that I By ‘Lade Ojo can also have that platform that I love to do, discovering talents and putting them on the Frank Osodi came into limelight when he designed the dress that Agbani Darego, runway, giving them the visibility that I think wore and won the Miss World 2001. Before then, Frank was already a top model. they deserve. That is what a lot of young design- Today, Bunor Creazioni, his label is known for iconic and sassy creativity. In this ers don’t have. That is what gives me pleasure interview, he speaks on what makes a good designer and what he is doing to empower now. Aside that, I am always here working for up and coming designers. my clients.

You are known to make female outfits predominantly. Why don’t you do male outfits? I used to. But the truth is that it does not require so much effort in terms of creativity. Men practically dress the same way. A shirt on a trouser and maybe a jacket, and they are gone. But with female clothing, there’s stoning and appliqué and even the stoning is in different ways. There are a variety of stones, appliqué and lots of things you can do on female wears. You can experiment with styles each time. There are so many things to do as far as women’s clothing is concerned. Your creativity comes out best.

Nigerian, or better African designers are yearning for a fashion hub. Do you think that is what is needed now? When they are asking for a hub, what they are looking for is a bail-out because many of them are not fashion designers in the real sense of it. Sincerely, what we have is a bunch of lazy young designers. The fact that you love fashion does not make you a designer. What you find these days Osodi at work is someone who is jobless and loves fashion, then carry catalogues and sews for people. Most of the things they sew are copied. Does that make you a designer? Definitely not. How many of them can cut? How many of them can make illustrate? How many of them can advise a client? A lot of them are lazy designers. Here in Nigeria, tailors are their designers, they don’t know no jack. Very few of them do. With about 70 percent of those parading them- selves as young designers, if you have a show with about a 100 of them, their collections all look alike. And they are asking for a hub. First, train as a designer, learn to consult, understand your client and try to be unique with your work. People must know you for something and not just His men’s wear collections copying other designers’ job.

30 May/June 2016 FASHION

What makes a good designer? A good designer is someone who dreams and nurtures the dream to reality; someone who takes it from the sketch to realisation. You sit down and you dream; you put your dream in a sketch and you realise it because realising it is not a joke. It’s about making sure it’s what you design on paper that’s wearable art. Some people can make sketches and yet don’t know how to achieve the sketches. They expect the tailor to turn it around. A good designer takes a look at your physique, asks you questions to be able to understand you, the fabric and then transfers that onto the paper, get into the studio and brings it to reality.

How would you describe a stylish Some styles of Bantu Knots woman? A stylish woman is someone who dresses to suit her physique. You need to know yourself and wear what suits your physique not because it’s in vogue or it’s trendy but because you should know what your body can pull, what your body should pull. That is what I call a stylish woman.

Is it about the quality of what you wear? Not necessarily. What is quality? It’s more about being well put together. Does it sit well and is it well cut? Some women might not like to dress expensive when they go out, but when you get to their homes, you will be shocked how expensive their homes are. There are people who spend all Bantu knots make a comeback their money on shoes and bags. They can wear By ‘Lade Ojo anything but for them, their shoes and bag must speak volumes. And sometimes if they don’t tell Call it a Bantu knot, a protective style, or a 90s look making a hard-core fashion you how much it costs, you might never know. comeback—it's certainly making the waves lately!

When you are not working on clothes, Before now, Bantu knots was usually worn late at They are created when the hair is sectioned off what do you do? night, covered with a scarf, and hidden from everyone. and twisted into knots. The shapes of the sections I watch comedy. I just relax with comedy. I However, nowadays, more ladies wear the knots out. depend on how the hair is parted, and can easily be like to laugh and be entertained. I travel some- And it is not unlikely that you would pass by one or made into diamond, triangle or square shapes, and times too. two ladies wearing the style. the possibilities are endless. It takes a certain level of confidence to rock a To get a fuller look, this style is formed when What life lessons have you learnt? bunch of knots in your hair. But once you do, it really your hair is twisted around itself until it forms a knot Life has taught me that the best way to enjoy becomes this threshold of style and hair confidence. that resembles a stack of tires. When you remove the this life is to be humble and simple. Humility and Bantu knots are a cute, flirty style traditionally sported knots your hair will resemble a corkscrew rope. The simplicity is what life is all about. This is what God by women of Ibibio tribe, mostly from Akwa Ibom “rope” may then be separated with your fingers and, wants for us. I am simple and I am happy. and Cross Rivers states of Nigeria, and Zulus in if necessary, finger combed to loosen the curl and South Africa. shape it into the style you desire. The finished result What’s your favourite food? For modern natural divas, Bantu knots are a way is a head full of springy, bouncy curls that may be as Edikang Ikong soup and Nsala soup. to wear the hair so it is protected from the elements tight or loose, as defined or tousled as you desire. It is and close to the scalps. These knots work well with just an awesome way to style your hair without using heat Where is your favourite holiday spot? about all hair types. You can wear the Bantu knots as and does not require much manipulation. Cape Town. I like Cape Town because it’s a style themselves or you can blow dry or sit under a You can do this style at night, and by morning heaven on earth. dryer to set the style immediately. it’s air-dried.

May/June 2016 31 UN NEWS

pects in Asia, Latin America and the Arab region Economic Woes Threaten and natural resource rich countries has begun to ex- pose the fragility of employment and social progress. Poverty Reduction Gains In some of these countries income inequality has begun to rise after decades of declines, raising the The global deficit in quality jobs and deteriorating economic conditions in a num- possibility that progress on poverty might be at risk. ber of regions threatens to undo decades of progress in poverty reduction, warns a “Clearly, the Sustainable Development Goal of new report by the United Nations International Labour Organization (ILO). ending poverty in all its forms everywhere by 2030 is at risk,” Mr. Ryder continued. achieving this goal. “Right now, while 30 per cent of the world is “If we are serious poor, they only hold 2 per cent of the world’s in- about the 2030 Agenda come,” said Raymond Torres, ILO Special Advisor [...] then we must focus on Social and Economic Issues. “Only through on the quality of jobs in deliberately improving the quality of employment all nations," said Guy for those who have jobs and creating new decent Ryder, ILO Director- work will we provide a durable exit from precarious General in a press release living conditions and improve livelihoods for the on the report, which esti- working poor and their families.” mates that while almost The study also finds that high levels of income a third of the extremely inequality reduce the impact of economic growth or moderately poor in on poverty reduction. “This finding tells us that it Workers in Colombia’s palm oil sector. Photo: ILO developing economies is past time to reflect on the responsibility of rich Along with these challenges, the ILO’s World have jobs, their employment is vulnerable in nations and individuals in the perpetuation of Employment and Social Outlook 2016: Transform- nature: they are sometimes unpaid, concentrated poverty. Accepting the status quo is not an option,” ing jobs to end poverty notes that relative poverty in in low-skilled occupations and, in the absence of adds Mr Torres. developing countries is on the rise. Indeed, it finds social protection, rely almost exclusively on labour The report concludes with a number of recom- that more than 36 per cent of the emerging and de- income. mendations to address the structural challenges to veloping world lives in poverty – on a daily income Moreover, among developed countries, more providing quality jobs and a concomitant reduction of less than $3.10 purchasing power parity (PPP). workers have wage and salaried employment, but in poverty. They include, among others: tackle low- Noting that some $600 billion a year – or nearly that does not stop them from falling into poverty. productivity traps, which lie at the heart of poverty; $10 trillion in total over 15 years – is needed to To that end, the report finds that the incidence of strengthen rights at work and enable employer and eradicate extreme – and moderate – poverty glob- relative poverty has increased by one percentage worker organizations to reach the poor; reinforce ally by 2030, the report concludes that the problem point in the European Union, since the start of the governments’ capacity to implement poverty-reduc- of persistent poverty cannot be solved by income global economic and financial crisis. ing policies and standards; and boosting resources transfers alone; more and better jobs are crucial to Further, recent deterioration of economic pros- and making the rich aware of their responsibility.

UN human rights chief welcomes Pfizer's decis­ion to bar use of its drugs in executions that are directly linked to their operations, prod- The United Nations human rights chief today warmly welcomed the initiatives an- ucts or services.” nounced by pharmaceutical company Pfizer to ensure that the drugs it produces will The High Commissioner noted that other not be used by States to carry out executions by lethal injection. companies beyond the pharmaceutical industry “Businesses, across many industries, can help to certify that the products they purchase will not may be involved in activities relating to the ad- prevent human rights violations from occurring,” be used for any penal purposes. Pfizer has said it ministration of the death penalty, and called on UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Zeid will monitor the distribution consistently. such businesses to carry out human rights due Ra-ad Al Hussein, said in astatement released by Mr. Zeid called on all businesses to act in diligence across their operations to ensure that his Office (OHCHR). “It is heartening to see accordance with their human rights responsibili- they are not in any way contributing to the use of companies playing an active role in furthering the ties as set out in the UN Guiding Principles on capital punishment. trend towards ending use of the death penalty.” Business and Human Rights, to “avoid causing Mr. Zeid also urged States not to resort to Pfizer announced that it would restrict the sale or contributing to adverse human rights impacts questionable sources for the drugs required to of seven products that have been part of lethal through their own activities, and address such administer lethal injections. He stressed that the injection protocols in some States. Resale will be impacts when they occur” as well as to “seek to UN opposes the use of the death penalty in all restricted and Government entities will be required prevent or mitigate adverse human rights impacts circumstances.

32 May/June 2016 UN NEWS

ated the Medal, the Council deeply regretted that Family of UN Peacekeeper Captain Diagne’s death, his family “never received any expressions of appreciation from UN Headquarters Who Saved 100s In Rwanda for the sacrifices made by their distinguished family member.” share Stories He lived well ‘before leaving On 31 May 1994, as Rwanda was descending in to chaos, Captain Mbaye Diagne, Captain Mbaye was “a jovial, generous man” who a military observer at the United Nations Assistance Mission in the country (UN- “loved helping others,” his widow said. AMIR), was in the capital, Kigali, driving back to the base when a mortar fell near “His life was short but he lived it as if he had his vehicle. He died instantly. He was 12 days from finishing up his service lived many years. He did that well before leaving,” she recalled. In the months before his tragic death, even though pray [hard] that the war will end,” Ms. Diop said, Ms. Diop was accompanied by a daughter, as a military observer he was unarmed, Captain Di- recalling what she had been told. Coumba Kane Diagne, and a son, Serigne Cheikh agne, of Senegal, had risked his life time and again to The Hotel des Mille Collines became well-known Mbacke Diagne, who were aged four and two years save hundreds people during the genocide in Rwanda. after more than 1,200 people took refuge there in old, respectively, when their father was killed. The UN honoured his courage today with the inau- 1994. The story was immortalized in the film Hotel “They say a lot about him; what he did in Rwanda, gural ‘Captain Mbaye Diagne Medal for Exceptional Rwanda. Beyond the Hotel’s refuge, the UN estimates the people he saved. He was a good man,” said Mr. Cheikh Diagne, who does not remember much of his father. “Our mother told us that every time he came home, he took us together, brought us to the store to buy us candy. He loved spending time with us.” His sister remembers only one of those days, “He came [and] took me in his arms [...] This is the only memory I have of him.” Ms. Diop, recalled that on 31 May 1994, it was the police who came to tell her the news, some 17 hours after her husband had died behind the wheel of his vehicle. “The next day, we were at home waiting for the remains to come. It took five days for the body to arrive in Senegal,” she said. Since that day, Ms. Diagne Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon presents the "Captain Mbaye Diagne Medal for Exceptional Courage" to Ms. Yacin Mar Diop, widow raised her children alone: “I of Captain Diagne. UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe lived with my kids without their dad. This was very hard, but Courage,’ which was awarded to his family. that more than 800,000 people were systematically with the means available, I tried to educate them “In Rwanda, he called me often to tell me about murdered throughout Rwanda. The vast majority and get by.” the situation there. Sometimes [I even heard the were Tutsi, but moderate Hutu, Twa and others were “My children went two years without schooling shots],” remembers his widow, Yacine Mar Diop, in an also targeted. and I know that if their dad was there, he would not interview with the UN News Centre. “And I told him In May 2014, the Security Council created the have been happy. He watched their education closely,” to be careful because he had a lot of young children.” ‘Captain Mbaye Diagne Medal’ to honor the military she continued. Once while on the phone, Captain Diagne passed and members of the police and civilian personnel of She said the whole family feels a great sense the receiver to Rwandans he had ferried to safety in UN and associated personnel who braved extreme of pride at receiving today the UN medal from the back of his truck. danger in carrying out their duties or duties in “the Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. “It is your husband who saved us. He hid us here service of humanity and the United Nations.” “He deserves it with everything he has done in at the Hotel des Mille Collines. God is with him. We By the unanimously adopted resolution that cre- Rwanda,” Ms. Diop said.

May/June 2016 33 AU NEWS

African Leaders Call for more Account- approach to deal with the social determinants of health, noting the importance of strengthening health ability on Maternal and Health Issues systems in the SDG era. Ms Diene Keita, UNFPA Country Representative in Democratic Republic of As part of concerted efforts to reduce maternal and child deaths the African Congo lauded the Commission for establishing the Union Commission (AUC), in collaboration with MSH-ASH, USAID and data platform and was optimistic the platform will key partners, organized a high level side event in the margins of the Women be used to hold African governments accountable for Deliver­ Conference. progress against their own commitments for maternal survival. She also called on the Commission to draw The event was aimed at strengthening collabora- frameworks such and Agenda 2063 and the SDGs as the attention of the African leadership to good work tion among advocates and partners in support of the well as promotes the use of the AU resources, such as CARMMA is doing at country level to save lives of AU Campaign on Accelerated Reduction of Maternal the CARMMA website and the African Health Stats women and children in Africa Dr. Ishrat Husain, Mortality in Africa (CARMMA), and to ensure that data platform as tools for strengthening accountability Senior Health Advisor, Africa Bureau, USAID ac- coordinated campaign efforts coalesce into acceler- in the region. knowledged the importance of evidence to the AUC’s ated action towards ending preventable maternal and Speaking during the event, the Head of the efforts with CARMMA. The panel led an interesting child deaths. The session provided an opportunity to HIV&AIDS, TB and Malaria Division Dr. Marie- discussion, and concluded that CARMMA needed articulate the campaign focus in the post 2015 period, Goretti Harakeye emphasized the need for partners to to utilize the data platform to hold member states increase the visibility of the revised AU’s policy instru- work together to achieve health commitments across accountable to ending preventable maternal and ments in the context of other continental and global Africa. She reiterated the importance of multi-sectoral child mortality.

Agenda 2063 Promotes Investment billion), mechanization (USD 59 billion) and other In African Agriculture power sources and equipment (USD 115 billion). These investments will have to be made primarily The importance of Africa’s agriculture transformation process, should come from both the by the private sector. The public sector will thus be in contributing to food and nutrition public sector and private sector. Whilst CAADP confronted with the need to create and maintain ­security, poverty reduction and overall implementation in the first 10 years focused on conditions that favour investment in agribusiness and economic growth is well documented. mobilizing public sector financing to address the agro-industries by the private sector. agriculture sector investment requirements, there is Consequently, The AUC and the NEPAD Agency However, the task of transforming Africa’s evidence that private sector investments will continue have been making various efforts aimed at scaling up agriculture into a modern and dynamic sector is a to be central to leveraging existing public sector investments into the agricultural sector. The AUC complex one, faced with a number of key challenges. efforts. Under the right conditions, private sector Department of Rural Economy and Agriculture These include limited investment, technologies, investments have the potential to drive pro-poor has organized a series of private sector fora, the knowledge and infrastructure to link input and development and strengthen food security. outcomes of which have fed into the development output markets across the continent. Recognition of the pivotal role of the private of the Continental Agribusiness Strategy. To give For agriculture to make a meaningful contribution sector in the renewed push for agriculture and ag- further voice to private sector concerns, there are to attainment of the aspirations enshrined in Agenda ribusiness development in Africa, informs efforts to ongoing efforts at strengthening national agribusiness 2063, the Africa Union’s strategic framework for the leverage the private sector and other stakeholders. chambers, with a view to establishing a continental socio-economic transformation of the continent over Indeed, one of the commitments in the Malabo agribusiness chamber / platform in the near future. the next 50 years, increased levels of, and targeted Declaration which is on “Enhancing Investment Furthermore, through the facilitation of the New investments are required. A transformed and modern Finance in Agriculture”, calls for increased involve- Alliance for Food Security and Nutrition, hosted agriculture will be key to achieving inclusive growth ment of the private sector, in its diversity, both local at the AUC, work is ongoing which aligns private and sustainable development on the continent. and international, in African agricultural develop- sector investment priorities with public sector policy The transformation of Africa’s agriculture is ment, especially targeting strategic agricultural commitments. Similarly, through the Grow Africa anchored in the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture commodities value chains at national, regional and Partnership hosted at the NEPAD Agency, efforts Development Programme (CAADP). The Malabo continental level. are made to increase private sector participation Declaration on Accelerated Agricultural Growth and So what are the required levels of investment? Ac- in agriculture and to accelerate the execution and Transformation for Shared Prosperity and Improved cording to FAO estimates, over the period from 2006 impact of investment commitments. Livelihoods, adopted during the 23rd Ordinary Ses- to 2050, the cumulative global investments required The engagement of the private sector, within and sion of the African Unions Heads of State and Gov- in Sub-Saharan Africa in agriculture and downstream outside the continent, should complement public sec- ernment, provides further impetus to the CAADP support services amount to USD 940 billion [in 2009 tor investments in the agricultural sector, from both process and gives the direction for agriculture on USD]. Of this amount, about 66 percent will be domestic and external sources, to deliver the required the continent for the next 10 years. This essentially required for agribusiness and agro-industries capital financing for the bold commitments in the Malabo constitutes the agricultural component of the first 10 outlays, covering items such as cold and dry storage Declaration in order to realize the transformation years’ implementation plan of Agenda 2063. (USD 78 billion), rural and wholesale market facilities that will bring about food security and prosperity The investments, which are required for this (USD 159 billion), first stage processing (USD 207 for the people of this continent.

34 May/June 2016 AU NEWS

by adopting policies, plans of actions and programmes AU Commission and Afro-Arab Youth at the national level. She also called on the AAYC to Council Sign MoU work closely with the AUC to promote democracy and good governance as well as the protection and The African Union Commission (AUC) and the Afro-Arab Youth Council (AAYC) protection of human and peoples' rights in Africa. have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today for strengthening Mr. Awad Hassan, Secretary General of the AAYC cooperation and collaboration between the two parties to facilitate the imple- reaffirmed the commitment of the AAYC to work mentation of the development and integration agenda of the African Union. closely with the AUC towards the two institutions’ common goals as well as the implementation of joint ned MoU as a platform to strengthen this important activities to ensure the involvement of African youth partnership. in the promotion of democracy, good governance and The Commissioner for Political Affairs also made the promotion and protection of human and peoples’ reference to the Declaration of 2016 as "African Year rights in Africa. He also expressed the intention of the of Human Rights with a Special Focus on the Rights AAYC to partner with the AUC in implementation of Women”, which provides an opportunity for the of the AU Agenda 2063. entire continent to take stock of the human rights According to the signed MoU, the African Union situation on the continent in general, and the rights of Commission and the Afro-Arab Youth Council will women in particular. Dr. Abdullahi further added that explore opportunities for cooperation and non-exclu- The MoU was signed by H.E. Dr. Aisha L. the celebration of 2016 as the year of human rights in sive partnership in the area of participation of African Abdullahi, Commissioner for Political Affairs of the Africa seeks to, among other things, enhance public youth in policy development and implementation at African Union Commission, and Mr. Yousif Al-Ka- awareness on human rights instruments and mecha- the continental level, involvement of African youth in zim President of the Afro-Arab Youth Council, who nisms; assess the ratification and implementation of the promotion and protection of human and peoples’ was represented by Mr. Awad Hassan, the Secretary the human rights instruments. rights in Africa, implementation of the AU Human General of the AAYC. Dr. Abdullahi concluded by calling on the Afro- Rights Strategy for Africa, implementation of Project Dr. Aisha L. Abdullahi expressed her appreciation Arab Youth Council to encourage its members to be 2016 and the implementation and population of the for the level of the existing working relationship part of the continental youth movement that is sup- AU Agenda 2063. between the two institutions and described the sig- porting the implementation of the AU Agenda 2063

2nd Meeting of CFTA-NF Kicks off Technical Working Groups as well as agreeing on the CFTA Negotiating Forum Work Plan. Before in Ethiopia concluding, Mr. Merah informed the Negotiators that a dedicated session to discussing modalities The 2nd Meeting of the Continental for the CFTA negotiations was planned on Friday Free Trade Area Negotiating Forum which is the last day of the meeting. (CFTA-NF), kicked off today at the Af- The Chair of the meeting, Mr. Sayed Elbous, rican Union Commission (AUC) Head- Senior Advisor to the Minister of Trade and quarters in Addis Ababa. Industry Ministry of the Republic of Egypt, wel- comed the participants to the meeting and recalled During the next five days, Member States will the successful conclusion of the 1st Meeting of the consider all the post launch preparatory issues and CFTA Negotiating Forum held in February 2016. essential process issues and technical documents that He emphasized the importance of the second mee- will enable the efficient conduct of the negotiations. On behalf of H.E. the Commissioner for Trade ting as key milestone towards the establishment of The Meeting will specifically, among others, consider and Industry, the Head of Trade Division, Mr. the Continental Free Trade Area. and adopt definitions of the Principles Guiding the Nadir Merah recalled the achievements of the 1st The role of the African Union Commission in CFTA Negotiations, and also discuss Approaches Meeting of the CFTA Negotiating Forum and the negotiations is to provide and coordinate techni- and Modalities for CFTA Negotiations. commended negotiators for the commitment to cal and administrative support to the Member States The 25th Ordinary Session of the Assembly conclude CFTA Agreement by 2017. He informed and REC’s. The AUC also serves as the Secretariat of Heads of State and Government of the African the Negotiators that the Department of Trade and to the CFTA Negotiating Forum. In playing its Union, which was held in Johannesburg, South Industry is committed to providing technical and support and harmonization role, the AUC closely Africa in June 2015, launched the negotiations for administrative support to the negotiations through collaborates with the RECs, the UN Economic the establishment of the Continental Free Trade Area the just established CFTA Support Unit. He Commission for Africa (UNECA) and the African (CFTA). The launch of the negotiations marked a emphasized that the principles guiding the CFTA Development Bank (AfDB) who are members of major milestone in the implementation of the Sum- negotiations should be defined in such a way that the Continental Task Force on the CFTA operating mit decision to establish a continental free trade area the CFTA will achieve the intended objectives. at the level of Chief Executive Officers and at the by the Indicative date of 2017. He stressed the importance of establishing the Technical level.

May/June 2016 35 ENTERTAINMENT

Book Review: The Convergence of Nations Author: Jean-Claude Bastos de Morais Review: Samuel Polley willing to work hard to achieve her dream of Book: The Convergence of Nations creating her own fashion business, was let down by health and public service infrastructure, and tragically died in a second rate health clinic. Africa has long been touted at a continent that is on the verge of achieving its po- Clayton also submits that “without developing tential. Jean-Claude Bastos de Morais’s book, The Convergence Of Nations, seeks soft infrastructure, marginalised and poor com- to show the world that the time has come and Africa is about to take off. munities will fall prey to agitators with much more radical agendas, who do not have Africa’s The Convergence of Nations; Why Africa’s Jamie Humphreys propose “misdemeanours of best interests at heart”, like we have seen in part Time is now, is a compilation of essays written those in public office need not impede a coun- of Northern Nigeria. by Africans on the state of the continent. It is try’s potential for progress.” As an example they split into four sections; Africa’s place in the sight President Goodluck Jonathon’s Nigerian Convergence of Nations seeks to find solu- world, Building sustainable growth, Changing government, which was “widely criticised” with tions to many of the issues that plague the societies and finance and the future. It reads regards to corruption and tackling corruption. African continent. Many of these solutions as an instruction manual for ‘African capital- More recently, President Buhari has vowed to are interlinked and need mutual development ism’ and seeks to offer hope for those already take up the challenge and improve Nigeria’s anti in order to be successful. From stemming the invested in the continent and those that are corruption record. tide of movement of people to radical groups to considering what they believe to be a leap of bringing people out of poverty the book looks faith in to Africa. Whilst this book offers differencing views at ways of increasing international trade both from its varied contributors, one theme run- within Africa and internationally, reducing In his introduction, Mr Bastos de Morais, the skill shortages and improving agricultural writes with real hope about Africa’s chances yield, amongst others. All these things lead to of reaching its potential. He writes, “Africa’s increased employment which, with massive outlook is more positive than it has been for 40 population growth and a rapidly increasing years”. Mr Bastos de Morais outlines a plethora working age demographic, is both a potential of areas that can contribute to the growth of cause of current and future problems and also a Africa. From learning about the development way to meet the continents potential. process of other regions, and financial sector transformations, such as central banks providing This book covers a very wide range of issues more liquidity, to the influx of foreign capital facing Africa and offers brief road maps in over- inflows, driven by technology experts and ‘smart coming the continents problems. In many cases manufacturers’ flooding into the continent. authors suggest that looking outwards and not “With a pool of young talents, fertile land and only living by the mantra “African solutions to abundant commodities, Africa is without a African problems” is necessary. Learning from doubt poised to play a larger role in global busi- the lessons of more developed nations and taking ness” expects the books compiler. Despite his lessons from the success stories of others are both hope, the entrepreneur does not want to dismiss important for quicker economic development the challenges that Africa faces and has faced, and poverty reduction. Other topics discussed with Ebola, health care, poverty and political in chapters through out the book include, in- unrest all issues featuring in this book. vestment and risk, energy and Africa’s mineral resources, manufacturing, urban dynamism, The issue of corruption, a stereotype that has and finance and the middle class. long plagued Africa and the world’s perception ning through most of the chapters is the need of Africa, is often visited. This book does not to develop infrastructure. Whether discussing At first glance The Convergence of Nations entirely remove this doubt, but does attempt, developing regional integration, harnessing seems to broad to really cover the whole African successfully, to show that much of the continent the demographic dividend, or strengthening continent, but this book gives a great general has improved in recent times. In the chapter, agribusiness, all authors agree that infrastruc- overview of so many topics with expert insight Building African Capitalism, Kingsley Chiedu tural development is a priority to reach these into the complicated nature of Africa’s situation. Moghalu suggests that it is corruption that targets. Infrastructure and its importance to From West to East to Southern Africa, this book “prevents the real take off, let alone the growth, Africa’s development also gets a chapter all to takes examples from around the continent and of African free markets.” Although, in their its self. Jonathon Clayton begins his chapter puts them together to create a picture of poten- chapter, the corruption battle, Tim Daniel and with a poignant story of Fiona M, who although tial change and hope.

36 May/June 2016 SPORT

FATMA SAMBA DIOUF SAMOURA General. I believe this role is a perfect fit for my skills and experience – strategic, high impact African Woman Appointed team building in international settings – which I will use to help grow the game of football all over the world. FIFA Secretary General "I also look forward to bringing my experi- By Mola Ajisafe ence in governance and compliance to bear For the first time in the history of FIFA a woman has been appointed its Secretary on the important reform work that is already General. Was the appointment suggested by the promised reform expected to take underway at FIFA. FIFA is taking a fresh ap- place in FIFA? proach to its work – and I am eager to play a role in making that approach as effective and The appointment of the woman, Fatma of football executives – as we continue to restore lasting as possible.” Samba Diouf Samoura of Senegal was an- and rebuild our organisation," President Infan- In her current UN role in Nigeria, Ms nounced on 13 May 2016 by FIFA President tino said, adding "No one exemplifies what we Samoura has wide-ranging responsibilities Gianni Infantino at the 66th FIFA Congress in need more than Fatma does, and we are thrilled including budgeting, human resources, and Mexico City. Ms. Smoura 54, who has spent 21 that she has joined our team.” procurement, among others. She coordinates the years working for United Nations succeeds the Since starting her UN career as a senior lo- activities of approximately 2,000 staff members, former Secretary General Jerome Valcke banned gistics officer with the World Food Programme and monitors and evaluates the security, politi- from football related activities for 12 years. in Rome in 1995, Ms Samoura has served as cal and socio-economic situation and trends in country representative or director in six coun- Africa’s most populous country. “Fatma is a woman with international experi- tries: Republic of Djibouti, Cameroon, Chad, Prior to joining the UN, Ms Samoura spent ence and vision who has worked on some of the Guinea, Madagascar and Nigeria. She speaks eight years in the private sector, working in the most challenging issues of our time,” President French (her mother tongue), English, Spanish fertiliser trading sector for Senchim, a subsidiary Infantino was quoted in FIFA press release. “She and Italian. of Industries Chimiques du Senegal. Her areas has a proven ability to build and lead teams, In her own comment, Ms Samoura said of responsibility included product export and and improve the way organisations perform. “Today is a wonderful day for me, and I am import programmes, tenders, and the establish- Importantly for FIFA, she also understands that honoured to take on the role of FIFA’s Secretary ment of a national distribution network. transparency and accountability are at the heart of any well-run and responsible organisation.”

As required under FIFA stat- utes, Ms Samoura will undergo an eligibility check administered by the independent Review Com- mittee, per Article 37 of the FIFA Statutes. Ms Samoura will assume the role of FIFA Secretary General in June.

President Infantino praised Ms Samoura’s integrity, and said the Council was particularly impressed with her operational experience, as well as her exper- tise in governance and working in multi-cultural environments. He said her expertise will com- plement the long-standing and deep knowledge of world football within the FIFA leadership team and administration.

“It is essential for FIFA to incorporate fresh perspectives – from outside the traditional pool Fatma Samba Diouf Samoura

May/June 2016 37 SPORT

IAAF Mourns the Death of Renowned ­Distance Running Dr Woldemeskel Kostre The IAAF is very sad to learn of the death of the renowned distance run- ning coach Dr Woldemeskel Kostre, the recipient of the 2006 IAAF Coaches' Award, who died in the Ethiopian cap- Photo: VOA ital Addis Ababa at the age of 69 early on Monday May16. Kostre was considered by many to be the architect of Ethiopia’s phenomenal success at longer distances from the mid-1980s onwards, although he also had a reputation of being a disciplinarian and authoritarian even when his athletes were setting world records. “We have lost Dr Kostre but he had been ill for a long time. Dr Kostre was a very strict man but he showed me how to behave. He gave discipline a top priority. It is very sad he has now left us,” said Ethio- pian distance running legend Haile Gebrselassie. Runners he coached included Olympic champions Dr. Woldemeskel Kostre, the recipient of the 2006 IAAF Coaches' Award Haile Gebreelassie, Kenenisa Bekele, Tirunesh Dibaba, Haile Gebrselassie and Derartu Tulu. Championships and the 2006 IAAF World Road the Ethiopian athletics team at the 1972 Olympic Kostre was a promising middle-distance runner Running Championships – he surprised many Games and for more than 30 years after Munich he himself before studying sports science in Hungary by still being able to converse comfortably in the was a familiar face among the Ethiopian delegation during the 1960s. language and among the first to pay public tribute at major championships. In addition to being a fluent English speaker, on to Dr Kostre on Monday was the Hungarian Am- The IAAF wishes to pass on its sincerest condolences the occasions he returned to Hungary in recent bassador to Ethiopia. to Dr Kostre’s family as well as the many athletes years – such as at the 2004 IAAF World Indoor Dr Kostre was appointed as an assistant coach of he guided and inspired.

World Anti-Doping Agency success and ultimate goal and suddenly get in against you in any sport!!... it's hurt breaking and saddening!!! Declares Kenya Non-Compliant "I love and respect the rule/code of sport! If Kenya By Alex Isaboke will be declared non -compliant then it's not that Montreal — Kenya has been declared in rop wrote on his official Face book page, "Somebody Kenyan athletes have been winning through perfor- breach of the World Anti-Doping Agen- tell whoever is concerned regarding doping issues mance enhancing drugs!! It's just the few elements cy's (WADA) rules, meaning some of the that Kenya has talents hardworking and athletes who have been there and it's also everywhere in the world's top athletes could miss the 2016 by nature. world not only Kenya!! These are the elements we Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. "We don't need some stupid bans in the name of a few need to eradicate," Yego declared. dopers. We are the real human nature with talents in Kenya has already missed two WADA deadlines to WADA recently made the announcement after the conjunction with hard work. Respect this transparent show they are tackling doping in sport, with IAAF body's Compliance Review Committee unanimously truth and help us in a way to stop the intruders who president Sebastian Coe threatening to suspend recommended that Kenya be declared non-compliant are fighting not only to win races against us but to their athletes from the August 5-21 Olympics if with immediate effect, citing that the Kenyan Anti finish the real hard work talent and nature in us. the country is found to be 'non-compliant' which is Doping legislation passed by Parliament is not in line "In this case you will save the sport. Do not demoral- currently the case for Russia. with WADA code. ize, do not kill a dream. For the sake of true and real President Uhuru Kenyatta signed a new anti-doping The development has raised fears amongst Kenya's ones spare God given talents for us," Kiprop, who is law on April 22, which it had been hoped would top athletes who are concerned on their participation preparing to compete at the Oregon IAAF Diamond allow the African athletics powerhouse to be given at the Olympics that gets underway in August as they League in USA wrote. the green light by WADA, but this apparently did await the decision to be made by the International World javelin champion Julius Yego said, "it's wor- not satisfy WADA, with the compliance committee Athletics Association Federation (IAAF). rying and painful to remember the sacrifice, perse- recommending that Kenya should be declared in Olympic and three-time world champion Asbel Kip- verance and dedication put towards achieving the breach of its code.

38 May/June 2016

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Casa Heinrich Guest-House Heinrichstrasse 68 8005 Zürich Tel. 044 271 04 77 Fax 044 271 04 47 [email protected] www.casaheinrich-guesthouse.ch 40 May/June 2016