PAN AFRICAN VISIONS MARKETING AFRICAN SUCCESS STORIES & MORE MAG 0919 Vol 2, September 2019 www.panafricanvisions.com , Guinea, South Africa….NDI’s Dr Chris Fomunyoh On Africa’s Shrinking Democratic Space Mozambique Goes For Another Peace

Deal Page 8

Will Cameroon Survive Biya?

Page 16

Hero or Villain- The checkered Legacy of Page 17

No victor no vanquished in Rwanda/ Uganda Feud Page 11

A Cult Status In Death For DJ Arafat Page 44 PAN-AFRICAN PRO-AFRICAN

www.centurionlg.com Contents PAN AFRICAN VISIONs CONTENTS Of Giants with Clay Feet and South Africa's Horror Show_____ 2 Washington Braces Up for Mega Forum on Making African Trade Easy______29 Cameroon, Guinea, South Africa'. NDI's Dr Chris Fomunyoh On Africa's Shrinking Democratic Space______3 -Q& A with Angelle Kwemo on Mate 2019______29

Third Time Lucky? Mozambique Signs Another Peace Agree- Free roaming benefits operators, users as One Africa Network ment______8 reaches 11 countries ______31

Malawi: Efforts For Dialogue Failing In Post Elections Impasse_ 9 Susan Dexter: From To Running The Victorian Candle Bed and Breakfast, the number one getaway in Hollywood Mary- Will Rwanda-Uganda agreement to ease tensions yield good re- land ______34 sults?______11 to Invest in Corporate Social Responsibility in Mining Friend or Foe? The Role of the Media in Fueling Tensions Between Sector to Consummate Global Standards.______35 Rwanda and Uganda______13 African Continental Free Trade Area will be beneficial for Camer- What future for Cameroon with life sentences of Separatist Lead- oon-Experts Say______38 ers?______15 Zimbabwe's plant breeders aim to scale up production of African No! Cameroon won't breathe after Paul Biya ______16 traditional vegetables market______39 Robert Mugabe: Another African Revolutionary Leader Bows Roland Achenjang's soul-searching book; "Who and Why You Are" Out.______17 hits the stands______40 Mugabe a leader among leaders______20 Insight Into The Edewor Foundation______43 's Special Prosecutor; a cover for the rhetoric on the war Hommage a DJ Arafat: His legacy, music, impact, death and after- against corruption in Ghana or genuine intentions with bottle life______44 necks?______23 Verve Card Goes Global After Penning Landmark Agreement With The Mentor's Foundation is impacting lives of vulnerable Cameroo- Discover In New York______46 nians one project at a time______26 Verve Goes Global ______47 Jamestown to Jamestown: It's been 400 years, we are going back to Ghana______28 Dogfight over Football in Cameroon: FECAFOOT suspends Camer- oon Professional League______48

Managing Editor Adama Makasuba, Graphic Designer Pan African Visions Ajong Mbapndah L Bah Uzman Unis, Atemnkeng Jerry M, Mohammed M Mupenda, (Young Jerry) 7614 Green Willow Court, Hyattsville, MD Contributors Pierre Afadhali EC designs, Abudhabi - UAE 20785 Wallace Mawire Teslim Olawore +971 52 863 7744 Deng Machol Nevson Mpofu [email protected] Tel: 2404292177, Papisdaff Abdullah Boris Esono Nwenfor email: [email protected], Ajayi Olyinka Amos Fofung Prince Kuripati [email protected] Jean d’Amour Mugabo Hategeka Moses Jessica Ahedor ______Asong Zelifac Samuel Ouma Advertising Primus Tazanu Email: Alexandre Nhampossa, marketing@ Ishmael Sallieu panafricanvisions.com Koroma,

PAV - APR. 2019 - MAG 0419 Vol 3 1 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa Of Giants with Clay Feet and South Africa's Horror Show By Ajong Mbapndah L ust when many Africa has been looking for, Buhari has remained mute, thought that Africa the responses to the recent and in a very disturbing Jwas finally hitting attacks from the South precedence, leaders of the the fast lane towards the African government are a Anglophone movement greatness that should go with reminder that we may have were arrested in Nigeria and its unquestionably immense been looking in the wrong whisked off to Cameroon potential, from South Africa place. under circumstances that came disturbing, shocking, In the last few months, remain unclear and given life and traumatizing scenes of the African Continental Free sentences in jail. which may have Trade Agreement has been When leadership is devastating repercussions on launched, the Economic forfeited, foreigners come the continent. Community of West African to the rescue and in the Nigerians in particular, States has embarked on a Cameroon situation, instead and pockets of other African laudable initiative towards its of Nigeria, South Africa Nationals in Mandela’s own common currency-the or even the country, came under attack ECO. In these developments helping to facilitate talks in the most brutal, and and more, Africans have seen for a peaceful solution, it is ruthless of manners from additional reasons to hope, that is offering to ethnic South Africans. It is hope for greater integration do so. not the first time, not even and eventually the united In this abysmal failure of Ajong Mbapndah L, Managing Editor the second or third that we and strong Africa that many leadership, Africans need to are witnessing such scenes. yearn for. With the South bond more than ever. The Beyond the gory nature of the Africa horror show, even the Nigeria and much of Africa has few attributes of the problems facing the ordinary attacks, the levity with which very strong hearted, and die- may have been united in kind of leadership that could everyday South African, the South African authorities hard optimists find it hard to condemnation of the attacks marshall Nigeria and Africa are the same in Nigeria, in responded may be the bigger shirk the despondency that in South Africa, it must be to greatness. President Cameroon, in Mozambique, problem. this may bring. recognized that the situation Ramaphosa has very little in Malawi, and others. It Alongside Nigeria, South In South Africa’s hour of is no different in Nigeria with excuses, he has been more of is high unemployment; it Africa is supposed to be need, the rest of the continent killings along religious and a President in waiting for a is public resources at the the other giant that pulls responded. When South ethnic lines, with galloping long time, if the xenophobic service of a few instead of the the rest of Africa towards Africans had no home, the rest unemployment, endemic attacks were a test of his majority. It is leaders rushing greatness. Since the end of of Africa offered them one, corruption, and a leadership leadership, he certainly to European hospitals at the apartheid, and the emergence Africa opened its frontiers that does not inspire much flunked big time with his slightest ailment whereas of black majority rule in for them. When the rest of confidence. Many may not response. their own hospitals back the early 90s, Africans have the world watched passively even remember that at one Talking of a failure in home are left to ruins. looked up to South Africa as South Africans suffered point, Nigeria had to expel leadership, one of the We have remained for leadership, for the right from the brunt of apartheid, Ghanaians in large numbers countries that readily comes consistent in opining that examples that the rest of the it is the rest of Africa that who sort refuge there. to mind is Cameroon where there is no shortage of ideas, continent could emulate, gave them a shoulder to lean Nigeria and South Africa, the has there is no shortage of talent. from President Mandela, on. When the leadership in the giants that Africa is metamorphosed into a In this September issue of to , Jacob South Africa fails to cater to counting on both have clay virtual civil. Thousands PAV, we discuss the shrinking Zuma and now President the needs of its own people, feet. That Nigeria should be have been killed, thousands democratic space in Africa Ramaphosa. The task is foreigners become the easy one of the last countries to have become refugees and with a heavy dose of emphasis understandable enormous, target. join the African Continental close to a million kids in on the Cameroon enigma with maybe the expectations have As we fault the South Free Trade Agreement the English-speaking North Dr Christopher Fomunyoh, been too high, we can go on African government, so too speaks volumes about its West, and South West Senior Associate for Africa and on about the reasons , should we fault the leadership leadership. President Buhari Regions of the country have and Regional Director at but the stark fact remains in Nigeria and many other goes at his pace, and beyond not been to school for some the National Democratic that if leadership is what African countries. While his health issues and age, three years now. President Institute. Undoubtably, his

Pan African Visions MAGAZINE, 7614 Green Willow Court, Hyattsville,MD 20785 Tel:2404292177, email: [email protected], [email protected] 2 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs proposals over the years you need not be a soothsayer will a crisis rage on for over to resolve the crisis. If ideas Nyusi and RENAMO leader would have been used by a to expect the chaos that three years with a heavy told is what the leadership in Ossufo Momade, we visit serious government to avert has engulfed the country or on human live ,property, Cameroon needs, then Dr the life and legacy of former the kind of calamity that has understand the desire of the massive displacement of Fomunyoh’s interview could Zimbabwean President befallen the country. But English speaking regions to people and more without a be of great help to them for Robert Mugabe, the mending when you have a leadership break free. President as much as making a start of fences between Rwanda’s where the median age is in Only in Cameroon will you one bold statement or directly In addition to putting and Yuweri the mid-70s, lacking in vision, slam heavy jail sentences engaging with key actors in Cameroon on the scanner, Museveni of Uganda, the hell bent on protecting their on leaders on Anglophone the crisis until a few days this issue of PAV Magazine passing of DJ Arafat in Ivory privileges in a system that leaders in the middle of a ago. How about even visiting also takes a look at the recent Coast and more. Happy has crippled one of Africa’s campaign of sorts for schools the region to make a strong peace accords in Mozambique reading !! most promising countries , to reopen , only in Cameroon statement on how he wants between President Felipe Cameroon, Guinea, South Africa'. NDI's Dr Chris Fomunyoh On Africa's Shrinking Democratic Space By Ajong Mbapndah L hile it may be of the world’s highest heartening to see reserves of bauxite and iron Whow much Africa ore, and timber and water has changed in the past three resources. Unfortunately, decades, the rate at which the impact of past military the successes of political and authoritarian rule is still transitions of the 90s are being felt, and citizens still been rolled back should be of crave an improvement in concern to everyone ,says Dr their well-being in this age of Christopher Senior Associate democratic government. The for Africa and Regional overall political situation in Director at the Washington, Guinea is tense and polarized, DC based National as the country prepares for Democratic Institute. legislative and presidential A seasoned professional African democrats must not relent in their advocacy, and must fight for elections which have to be who has played a leading role inclusive and accountable governments says, Dr Fomunyoh conducted between now and in some of the most successful December 2020. On top of stories of democracies in country’s future precarious. government must create an will be on the government to that, there is speculation that Africa since the early 90s, Describing the recent trial enabling environment in show that it will not steamroll the country could run into Dr Fomunyoh says it is of Anglophone leaders as a which participants feel that participants to obtain a a major crisis over whether disappointing to see the travesty of justice, Fomunyoh the dialogue would be open predetermined outcome. to adopt a new constitution prevalence of armed conflicts, says their sentencing further and broad based, allowing or not. Political parties, civil opposition leaders been aggravates the Anglophone for different viewpoints to be Dr Fomunyoh, you society organizations, labor thrown in jail, elections being crisis, and deepens the heard, says Dr Fomunyoh. have just returned unions, academics and other stolen, and constitutions mistrust, and bitterness that “The government must from Guinea Conakry, opinion leaders are already amended by leaders who want exists between Anglophones also take confidence-building an African country taking sides on the airwaves to perpetuate themselves in and the government of measures to show that the that has tremendous and various social media power. President Paul Biya. call for dialogue is sincere. resources, but has platforms. Many Guineans African democrats must “We must maintain the Notably, the killings must experienced difficult remain hopeful that the not relent in their advocacy pressure for dialogue because stop, the arbitrary arrests political transitions in day would come when a and must continue to fight it is the only means through and detention of young the past. What is your democratically elected for inclusive, and accountable which this conflict could Anglophones must end, and overall assessment of president transfers power governments, says Dr be brought to an end and people who are detained the situation there in through the ballot box to his Fomunyoh in an interview the legitimate grievances of unjustly should be released the lead-up to national successor, something that with Ajong Mbapndah L for Anglophones addressed in immediately,” Dr Fomunyoh elections scheduled for has not happened since the Pan African Visions. Cameroon,” Dr Fomunyoh said. 2020? country gained independence Speaking with passion says. Considering that many You are so right, Guinea in 1958. about his native Cameroon, For the dialogue Anglophones have lost trust is a country with so much Recently in Cape Dr Fomunyoh says the overall announced by President in the Biya government, Dr potential given its mineral Town, South Africa, as a situation looks bleak, and the Biya to be credible, the Fomunyoh said the burden wealth that includes some guest speaker at the joint PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 3 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa conference co-organized country? by the University of Cape Cameroon is in bad shape. Town and the Thousands of Anglophones Foundation, you stated that have been killed, others “political space is shrinking in their thousands are in across Africa.” What leads detention centers spread you to that conclusion? across the country; members First let me say how of security forces have lost uplifting it was to be at the their lives in hundreds; University of Cape Town over two hundred villages for a conference in memory have been burned; 40,000 of two great sons of Africa Anglophones now live in -- Nelson Mandela and refugee camps in Nigeria and Kofi Annan -- who as world 600,000 others are internally leaders epitomized the best displaced, now living in other of humanity in terms of their The next generation of Africans expect a better continent from its leaders,says regions of the country. For vision and commitment to Dr Fomunyoh here with President Roch Marc Kabore of . three years running, schools promoting human dignity, do about the democratic by other Africans for no other this unfortunate incident have been unable to open development and world backsliding? reason than their countries and come out with well- in the Anglophone regions peace. I was truly honored to African democrats must of origin. Nelson Mandela crafted programs that can of the country. The United be invited. not relent in their advocacy and other founders of today’s provide a safety net for Nations estimates that close In the spirit of Nelson and fight for inclusive and democratic and free South the less fortunate of South to 1.4 million Anglophones Mandela and Kofi Annan, it is accountable government. Africa would be turning African society, and a sense could be at risk of famine, all heartening to see how much We need more open political in their graves, because of safety and security for because of the ongoing crisis. Africa has changed in the space to engage citizens they would remember the other Africans that choose to At the same time, the past three decades: political across the board and harness contributions by other live in this beautiful country. runner-up in the last pluralism is now common the rich diversity of talent and African countries to the That tragedy also exposes the presidential election, practice in all African expertise that our continent liberation struggle. Without failures of other governments Professor Maurice Kamto, countries, independent possesses. We must find the frontline states that across the continent whose and hundreds of his media continues to grow, ways to galvanize our human include countries such as citizens now feel obliged supporters -- many of whom the continent’s youth are capital to best utilize the Zimbabwe and Zambia, and to flee their homeland to are lawyers, economists and becoming politically engaged, countries’ wealth to improve Nigeria, perhaps we would become refugees in foreign other professionals -- are and, increasingly, political the wellbeing of our fellow not have South Africa as we lands, because of political being detained in Yaoundé, power is being transferred citizens. For this to happen, know it today. Even if South repression or because of lack with some charged to appear through the ballot process. we have to learn to aggregate African youth are exposed of economic opportunity. before a military tribunal. Who could have thought our efforts as opposed to to many challenges such as What’s happening in South The country also continues that in Sudan, by the sheer operating in silos, we have high levels of unemployment, Africa today must prick to battle Boko Haram determination of citizens to build alliances across the lack of opportunities and a our collective conscience as extremists in its extreme engaged in civil protest, continent so that the good sense of abandonment by Africans. north region that borders a thirty-year autocracy guys can support each other the state, that still cannot north-eastern Nigeria and under General Al-Bashir and draw inspiration from explain why they would take Coming now to your Chad. The overall situation would collapse! At the same each others’ successes. The out their grievances violently home country of looks bleak, and the country’s time, one must state the next generation of Africans against fellow Africans. It is Cameroon, what is future precarious. There is disappointment that in too expect from us a better my hope that the government your assessment of the reason to be alarmed. many African countries some continent than we may have of South Africa would draw political situation there, of the successes of political inherited from the generation the appropriate lessons from in what shape is the Getting into more recent transitions of the 1990s are before us. developments, what is being rolled back. Armed You were in South your take on the heavy conflicts are still prevalent, Africa around the week jail sentence slammed on opposition leaders are being of xenophobic attacks the Anglophone leader thrown in jail, injustice is by South Africans Julius Ayuk Tabe and being inflicted on ordinary against Africans of other others? citizens, elections are being nationalities. What In my opinion, the stolen, and constitutions are do you make of these sentencing of Ayuk Tabe and being amended by leaders attacks and how was 9 others to life imprisonment who want to perpetuate the mood like while you by a military tribunal in themselves in power. were there? Dr Fomunyoh in the company of Barrister Agbor Balla Yaoundé is a travesty of Felix believes that only dialogue and thorough solutions It is sad and despicable to justice on multiple fronts, to the legitimate grievances of Anglophones could end the So what should Africans watch Africans being killed conflict in Cameroon notably the conditions of 4 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs their arrest and extradition governance and conflict from Nigeria; their detention resolution, what incommunicado for an proposals do you have extended period of over 9 for a way out of the months; their trial before a present crisis? military tribunal constituted I have been consistent only of French speaking in advocating for dialogue military judges; and the all- and in putting forward night trial that ended with ideas that could help the a ruling at about 5 am in country resolve this crisis. the morning. There is no As recently as November doubt in my mind that this 2018, I presented a 10-point sentencing further aggravates agenda on concrete steps the Anglophone crisis that could have been taken Dr Fomunyoh making a donation to internally displaced persons ,the UN and deepens the mistrust at the time to bring an end to estimates that close to 1.4 million Anglophones could be at risk of famine because of the ongoing crisis. and bitterness that exists the conflict. Since then, the between Anglophones and situation has gotten worse, is your reaction to the by the end of September. that it will not steamroll the government of President more lives have been lost, speech? What are some of the participants to obtain a Paul Biya. and the increasing number Modern day governance necessary ingredients predetermined outcome. The heavy sentence came of victims only reinforces the and crisis management for successful dialogue at a time when there are urgency of concrete actions demand that leaders be more and a lasting solution? Given that President increasing calls for dialogue, that must be taken to end proactive in communicating First, for the dialogue to Paul Biya is 86 years what impact do you think this the massacres and conflict. with citizens when countries be credible, the government old and his legitimacy could have on prospects of As I’ve stated over the years, face crises of the magnitude must create an enabling is questioned in some dialogue? I’m willing to put on the table of what Cameroon has environment in which quarters, do you think This life imprisonment goes how that roadmap could be gone through over the past participants feel that the Biya is in a position contrary to the vein of recent implemented, were there three years. It is good that dialogue would be open to resolve the crisis in pronouncements in favor of to be an open platform and President Paul Biya finally and broad based, allowing Cameroon? dialogue by the government, a genuine effort to end this spoke directly to this crisis. for different viewpoints to I have serious doubts that multiple opinion leaders, crisis and get the country The promise of a national be heard. The government a president who is 86 years the African Union and the out of the mess in which it dialogue is commendable, must also take confidence- old, has been in power for 37 international community. We currently finds itself. although I wish that the building measures to show years, and has always been must maintain the pressure rest of the speech was less that the call for dialogue is aloof and distant from the for dialogue because it is the On Tuesday, September accusatory and provocative, sincere. Notably, the killings population can all of a sudden only means through which 10, President so as to create an environment must stop, the arbitrary change his governance style this conflict could be brought Biya addressed in which the dialogue could arrest and detention of young and put in the energy and to an end and the legitimate Cameroonians and, for actually begin. Anglophones must end, and effort required to resolve the grievances of Anglophones the first time in three people who are detained crisis. In the past three years, addressed in Cameroon. years, he discussed the You have always unjustly should be released the magnitude of the crisis crisis in the North West called for dialogue, and immediately. Cameroonians has grown exponentially, As a seasoned and South West regions now President Biya says still remember that a similar and it now has ramifications professional on in some detail. What there will be one starting national dialogue in the both across the country early 90s came up with and internationally; I have recommendations, most of strong doubts that the Biya which were ignored by the government alone can find government. It is therefore a way out. Other actors of important to send strong good will, nationally and signals that the underlying internationally, must step grievances of Anglophones in given that trust has been would be addressed, so they severely broken between feel that the outcome of the the Biya government and dialogue would restore their a sizeable chunk of the dignity and what they have Anglophone population. lost during this crisis. Given that many Anglophones What do you think have lost trust in the Biya accounts for the levity Dr Fomunyoh in discussion with President Alpha Conde of Guinea where the government, the burden is with which the rest overall political situation is tense and polarized, as the country prepares for on the government to show of Africa, and the legislative and presidential elections PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 5 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

broader international and friends of Cameroon to Cameroonians will have to sit on the expertise of the a transitional government institutions like the continue to educate members around the table and agree on seasoned professional as you allude to, and so I do African Union and the of Congress as well as the a structure that can guarantee that you are, will you be not see how this could come UN have treated the international community for every citizen his or her willing to provide it? about. crisis in Cameroon? at large on the devastating liberties and the preservation For the past two decades, I agree that the nature of this crisis and its of their culture and dignity. I have been consistent in What lessons will a international community negative impact on millions It is inconceivable that raising concerns about future Cameroon and the has been slow to respond to of Cameroonians. Recently, Cameroon could rebuild how the country was being rest of Africa learn from the crisis, and so far there Congresswoman Karen Bass, without acknowledging the governed. I have been this crisis? have been more declarations who is the Chairman of the specificities of its English pained and truly aggrieved Many. For example, that a than concrete actions. At Africa Subcommittee, led a speaking population. by what has happened to the people would rise up if their least, some countries and congressional delegation to Anglophone community in dignity is trampled upon; organizations such as the Cameroon to hear firsthand What is your take on the past three years. It has that truth, honesty and other United States, Germany, from Cameroonians the issue of school been disappointing to see democratic values matter the European Union and and victims of the crisis. resumption? how legitimate grievances by for people’s trust in their recently the French Foreign Congressional resolutions, As you may be aware, The lawyers and teachers were government; that preventive Ministry, have been calling on especially when passed on Fomunyoh Foundation which summarily dismissed by the diplomacy would save us President Biya to change his a bipartisan basis as we’ve has been active since 1999 authorities, and subsequently and our continent a waste of approach to the crisis and to seen in the case of Cameroon, has as one of its priorities how other socio-political human capital and human engage in genuine dialogue. carry a lot of weight. They to promote and support grievances that were brought resources; and that it is The recently capture the voice of the US education in Cameroon. to the fore were violently incumbent on our generation expressed its support for a Congress on an issue, and The Foundation has over repressed. Here we are, to shape and give meaning Swiss-led effort to mediate also have the capability of the years distributed books with thousands of fellow to institutions that should between the government influencing the executive and other school materials compatriots killed, others in improve the wellbeing of our and Anglophone secessionist branch of government in and organized public detention, in refugee camps fellow citizens. movements, and the Security its foreign policy approach. speaking events in academic and internally displaced Council even held an informal The European parliament, institutions in all regions of – all of which could have So, what’s ahead for debate on Cameroon in May. the German Bundestag the country. This underscores been avoided. Under those you and the National However, these measures are and other important my personal commitment to circumstances, one has an Democratic Institute insufficient as the conflict bodies have made similar the education of the younger obligation, if called upon, (NDI) over the next year? continues unabated. One pronouncements which help generation. In the context of to contribute ideas and In the coming year we would have thought that raise the level of awareness the ongoing crisis, education recommendations on how to will be paying very close after the Genocide in Rwanda of the magnitude of the crisis, entails more than just having stop the killings and get out attention to the transition in 1994, declarations such both within Cameroon and kids in a classroom. The of this mess. process in Sudan, as well as as “Never again” would internationally. Hopefully, back-to-school campaign to Some people have political developments across prick the conscience of the more concrete actions will be successful, has to be part mooted ideas for a the Sahel and in the Horn international community so follow. of a comprehensive package transitional government of Africa, the Democratic as not to allow crises like the that includes among others, led by someone neutral Republic of Congo and the one in Cameroon to fester. I One of the Congressional overall peace in the Northwest that could help the Great Lakes region. We will truly hope that the African resolutions called for a and Southwest regions of country wade through also be paying close attention Union and the international return to the Federation the country; reassurances the myriad of crises it to upcoming competitive community can step up their that existed between from both the military and is facing. First, what elections in countries such as engagement to bring peace to 1961 and 1972. Do you armed groups that neither do you think of the Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, the country. think that could work? students, nor teachers, nor idea and secondly were Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea At a minimum, such a parents would be shot at or this to happen and you Conakry, Mozambique and You are familiar with concession could create the harassed; that the curriculum were asked to preside Niger Republic. The beauty the way Washington space for rebuilding trust, is relevant; and that the kids over a transition, is this of this all is the partnerships works; can you help us given that the government in can ultimately be guaranteed something you could that NDI has with civic better understand the power was part of the team a future. This requires a consider? and political organizations different Congressional that dismantled the first deep analysis and proper With each passing day, as across the board in all of the resolutions that have Federation in 1972. Moreover, preparations to make it these multiple -- Anglophone, countries in which we work. come up of recent on when the current crisis broke meaningful. I am saddened political, and security -- crises They are the true champions Cameroon? in 2016, the Biya government that some people are we just discussed endure, my of democratic development I am heartened by the would not entertain treating this matter as mere faith in this government’s in their respective countries, interest shown in the proposals for federalism, and sloganeering for political ability to resolve all of them and our role is to give them Cameroon crisis by the even went as far as banning advantage. diminishes. At the same time, the support and solidarity United States Congress, public discussions on the the current constitution of that they need to succeed. and I urge Cameroonians subject. For peace to prevail, If the government calls the country doesn’t allow for 6 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs

PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 7 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa Third Time Lucky? Mozambique Signs Another Peace Agreement By Arnaldo Cuamba he Government of within.” Mozambique and The agreement follows the TRenamo signed on successful political dialogue 6 August the Maputo Peace between the Government and National Reconciliation of Mozambique and the Agreement with the aim to Mozambique National consolidate peacemaking Resistance (Renamo), which after violence that erupted culminated in the signing of several times since 2013. an agreement on Definitive The agreement was signed at Cessation of Military Peace Square by Mozambican Hostilities, on August 1, 2019. President , Both documents are secret and Renamo leader Ossufo and the details are not known. Momade, with the witness of The agreement was signed at Peace Square by Mozambican President Filipe Kenyan Interior Minister several individuals including Nyusi, and Renamo leader Ossufo Momade Fred Matiangi, who came on the heads of state from South behalf of President Uhuru Africa, Rwanda, Tanzania independence from Portugal. peace,» said Nyusi, for whom disarmament, reintegration Kenyatta, said the agreement and Namibia. As a way of contesting the «this is an agreement that into the society of former paves the way for the country alleged fraud, Renamo has proves that we no longer Renamo guerrillas. to reunite and the differences It is the third such always opted for the military want war.» Ossufo Momade, Following the signing between Mozambicans to be agreement signed between the route by attacking civilians in his turn, reiterated that the Rwandan President, resolved peacefully, which parties since 1992. Renamo, a and public institutions. the ceasefire should mark Paul Kagame said that will allow normalization former armed movement that the beginning of the new the agreement brings the of life and the consequent became the main opposition However, the new era, characterized by free, promise of an end to decades socioeconomic development. party, and the Government agreement aims to put an transparent elections and of conflict and uncertainty, South African President Forces, waged a civil war end to military hostilities alternating government. and the renewal of national said the that killed nearly 1 million and foresees that some 5,000 “It shows that we can unity and cohesion. signing paves the way for people for up to 16 years, Renamo guerrillas should find solutions to our “This achievement matters peaceful elections. «We until a peace agreement that surrender their weapons, problems” to all of us in Africa. It shows are honored to see that end the slaughter in 1992. weeks before a visit by Pope Some African countries that we can find solutions peace agreement has been Even so, from 2013, violence Francis, scheduled for 4-6 who attended the event to our problems, no matter achieved», said Ramaphosa. between the parties erupted September, and a national welcomed the agreement how protracted and difficult,” Namibian President, Hage causing dozens of victims and election scheduled for 15 and expressed their full Kagame stated. “Dialogue Geingob said the agreement declared end with the signing October. willingness to support the and inclusion cannot be is one of the African Union›s of the 2014 peace agreement. activities envisaged as part imposed from outside. And efforts to end violence by Again, from 2015 there «We want to settle our of the country›s pacification, once consensus is reached, it the end of 2020 and that were outbreaks of violence march towards definitive including the demobilization, can only be sustained from withe he accord Nyusi and in the country until it was Momade has shown that suspended in 2016 with the silencing the guns is not mere signing of the agreement for rhetoric, but a commitment the provisional cessation of to implementing peace and a military hostilities. reintegration process. “Mozambique has shown At least the last two clashes that silencing the guns is were caused by the non- not mere rhetoric. You acceptance of the election have walked the talk. To results by the Renamo party, buttress your commitment to which accused the ruling silencing the guns, Sadc urges party - Frelimo, of starring in all parties to implement the electoral fraud to continue to disarmament, demobilisation rule the country as it has been and reintegration (DDR) doing since 1975 - the year in process and in this regard, Serving and former Presidents from several countries graced the signing which Mozambique gained ceremony stands ready to support the 8 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs

Republic of Mozambique represented on the event by time of signing, the truth in her preparations for an the organization›s senior is that, inside and outside international conference to diplomatic chief Federica Mozambique, the news was mobilise funds for the DDR Mogherini, has made met with cautious optimism process,” he said. available 60 million euros to at the mistrust explained In his turn, the help pacify the country. by the fact that this is yet Chairperson of the African An agreement without another agreement by the Union Commission, Moussa enthusiasm from the Mozambican authorities Faki Mahamat said peace mozambican people established in the country is a vital agreement for the However, the third in four decades. In times whole continent and that agreement was not received past, the agreements, which AU was looking forward to with great enthusiasm. promised to bring ultimate South African President Jacob Zuma speaking at monitoring and supporting Despite the historical peace, established only the event the elections of October. character that the temporary truce. Citizens to have announced that always following the late In the meantime, Mozambican authorities question what is the it will not surrender its party president Afonso the European Union, endeavored to print at the guarantee that this time the weapons in the precarious Dhlakama, who lost his life belligerent parties will not framework of the cessation on May 3 last year. defraud the expectations. of hostilities agreement until With the election of the new In addition, before the it elects a new president of president, several changes agreement was signed, the largest opposition party were made in the party›s gunmen attacked a in Mozambique, insisting structure, something that passenger bus and a that the signed agreement did not please all members truck in Nhamapadza, only serves to «deceive the causing disagreements and Sofala province, central people». creating wards. Thus not Mozambique, injuring the The group, led by Major all members agree with the driver of the bus. General Mariano Nhongo, current party›s disarmament It is not yet known who consider that Ossufo leader›s negotiating molds, a exactly will have attacked. Momade is no longer a leader situation that argues that if Mozambique President Filipe Nyusi, left, and Renamo›s self-proclaimed of that force, accusing him of there is no consensus within Renamo leader Ossufo Momade hug each other after signing a peace accord at Peace Square in Junta Militar, which disputes «kidnapping and isolating» the party itself, how long will Maputo. the current leader, is known Renamo officials who have the peace agreement last? Malawi: Efforts For Dialogue Failing In Post Elections Impasse By Joseph Dumbula, Blantyre Malawi here have been spearheading protests that unending physical, have turned violent later on in Tlegal and verbal war being critical to, and accusing after the May 21 elections her of letting fraud clump as the opposition parties the elections. The violence along with some civil society involved looting of property, organizations are protesting torching of private and public against the authenticity institutions and unending of the polls while calling cat and rat chase between for nullification of the civilians and the police. This presidential results and halted businesses around all the resignation of Malawi major cities to the extent that Electoral Commission (MEC) even public commuters never Jane Ansah respectively. took to the road. The The news has dominated Defenders Coalition (HRDC) the headlines over the last The legitimacy of President Mutharika is strongly contested by the opposition. has since May this year been four months. However, the Photo AFP.

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calls and drives for dialogues «Mkhutche told Pan African are fast falling out. Earlier Visions earlier this month. on, former President Bakili He added: «The President Muluzi engaged the HRDC is detached from reality on in a meeting Muluzi had the ground. He should be reportedly not wanted to in a position to understand be live on the media but politics in this country. The gave in after the civil society nature of the situation is that grouping asked otherwise. He CSOs and opposition political had asked the HRDC to halt are approaching the issue protests and involve itself from different angles which in less violence actions only do not suggest CSOs being for the HRDC to carry-on used.» with its quest by announcing At the moment, vocal and of vigils across all borders influential quasi-religious and airports, a thing that Opposition challenger Saulos Chilima says the elections were fraught with grouping, the Public Affairs ierregulaties. led to unprecedented Committee (PAC) is working tensions among the business vehicles of the HRDC leaders. Lilongwe and is accused of the matter. to engage all concerned community and international The HRDC is on record as among other things leading a Initially, the 79-year-old stakeholders into the matter community. Muluzi had also having said that their private plot of various irregularities told a public rally that he on how to end the impasse. called on the HRDC to cancel security personnel moved to to have results of the elections had instructed armed police However, all eyes are set the vigils before the call was chase the said person before his way. and the army to ‹deal with› on how the presidential denied but the adamant worrying of their protection. But a seemingly irritated protestors in the country Elections case will go down HRDC leadership. Initially, Pan African Visions Mutharika said: «The before he received widespread the wire. Defence lawyers led The move however saw understands that HRDC opposition is working with criticism for inciting violence. by Kaphale are continuing to the Supreme Court of Appeal Chairperson Timothy the HRDC to vent their In an interview however, cross examine UTM witnesses grant a moratorium to the Mtambo was attacked by irate political agendas. This is political commentator after its leader Saulos Chilima Attorney General against people claiming to be vendors despite that the elections Wonderful Mkhutche told underwent the same process the protests and asking the in the capital Lilongwe who were certified by various local Pan African Visions that in a heated court session. HRDC to engage in dialogue accused him of disturbing and international bodies as Mutharika has erred in his Among other things, with the police and the their business trail through being free and fair. This is remarks arguing he needs Chilima told the court his attorney general on how to the demonstrations. bad. Thousands of people are to reckon his role towards party found out that some tame down the impasse with Just this week, President being attacked in the vigils. peaceful courses. monitors were reportedly peace. Peter Mutharika has told the There is need to understand «The President must bribed to sign off authentic News had also broken BBC that he can only give that the Constitution does realize that he is the leader results and that some out that the HRDC wanted in to dialogue from his end, not condone any violent of what he is calling his side. ballot papers were held by changes in the planned ‹should they be convinced by demonstrations». It should be him who should unauthorized personnel, venues for the dialogues as the agenda of the meeting.› He has also said he cannot be leading the agenda. When acts which he believes were reports suggested that there Mutharika is a second fire Ansah saying that as the people say the President aimed by the Mutharika led was an unknown assailant respondents in a high-profile case is in court, they is a need is not able to handle the Democratic Progressive Party who carried a hand grenade court case being heard by to let the issue be and wait for situation, it means he is yet to (DPP) to rig the elections. meant to be thrown at the the Constitutional Court in the direction of the courts on realize that he is a key player.

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10 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Will Rwanda-Uganda agreement to ease tensions yield good results? By Maniraguha Ferdinand n 21st August 2019, lecturer at University of “EAC wasn’t able to help joy filled Rwandans Rwanda, Journalism and probably because both Oand Ugandans hearts Communication department Kagame and Museveni are as Presidents Paul Kagame said implementation of senior leaders than the other and were agreement will require strong leaders and no one could take signing the agreement that political will from both it one.” sets to end years of tensions. Kagame and Museveni. He added that Tshisekedi The agreement were signed “The MoU they signed is must have joined mediation in on the watch of a very good starting point. ring because forces that Presidents João Lourenço of It addresses and names want to destabilize Rwanda Angola, Felix Tshisekedi of the main accusations and and Uganda are found on the Democratic Republic of commitment to solve them. Cargo truck stuck at Uganda Rwanda border . Congolese territory. the Congo and Denis Sassou And it says implementation Photo credit Monitor RNC rebel group which Nguesso of Republic of is with immediate effect after political analyst, Albert hands of late Milton Obote. Rwanda alleges Uganda to Congo. signing. Implementing it Rudatsimburwa said he is RPF Inkotanyi rebel group support has its base in South Both Rwanda and Uganda will require strong political optimistic towards agreement which Kagame came to lead , Kivu. On the other hand, have been accusing each will on the part of the two because it was dealt beyond launched its invasions in 1990 ADF rebel group that want to other of being a threat to the presidents” he said two countries. on Rwanda from Uganda, destabilize Uganda also has security of another. “It›s not easy but it›s Talking to local news site with the help of Museveni its base in Eastern Congo. Movements of persons and possible with the leaders› IGIHE, he said “ I can say government. “Congo got involved goods seemed to be dormant willingness”, Kayumba told good news is that it was In 2017 when tensions because it doesn›t want the since March this year when Pan African Visions. not done between Rwanda began, some people still conflict to fester and be fought Rwandan government After the signing the and Uganda only. Let’s wait believed that both presidents on its territory. Remember advised its citizens not to agreement, Rwanda’s state because history shows that will settle the matter. DRC, Rwanda and Angola cross into Uganda for fear of Minister in charge of foreign one some occasions Uganda However the escalations went signed agreement to defeat all their security. affairs told local media that would dodge.” on to the level even the East rebels in DRC” he said As Kampala was the easiest Rwandans are yet to be “I am certain 75 % that African Community (EAC) For Kayumba, Angola route for goods coming advised to cross to Uganda, the agreement will be in which both countries are played a mediation role as an from northern corridor and because other Rwandans who implemented”, he added members, failed to mediate. old ally of DR Congo. It has Mombasa port to Kigali, are held incommunicado in Kagame and Museveni Professor Kayumba says been there for Congo twice businesses in Kigali felt the Uganda’s security organs knew each other because they EAC failed because Kagame against Uganda-Rwanda side wrath of tensions. Hikes prisons are yet to be released. fought together a war that and Museveni are seniors in that of prices of some primary Another Kigali based liberated Uganda from the leaders in the bloc. ended in 2003. commodities were reported Inside the agreement, both in Rwanda. parties have agreed to respect Signing the agreement the sovereignty of each other’s came as a relief for those who and of neighboring countries, used to do business from refrain from conducive to Rwanda to Uganda and vice destabilization or subversion versa. in the territory of other party However, the day after the and neighboring countries signing things turned from thereby eliminating all worse to worst. Uganda factors that may create such blocked some Rwanda pro perception as well as that government news sites, and of acts such as financing, Rwanda retaliated. training and infiltration of Both countries claimed to destabilizing forces. block news sites for the sake The agreement also urges of national security. This both parties to resume as raised fear among those who soon as possible the cross- thought the storm is over. border activities including Professor Christopher President Museveni and Kagame exchaning folders containing agreement the movement of persons and after signing ceremony in Luanda. Kayumba, a senior goods. PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 11 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

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12 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Friend or Foe? The Role of the Media in Fueling Tensions Between Rwanda and Uganda By Mohammed M. Mupenda ensions between of two conflicting sides but Rwanda and Uganda adding salt to their conflict is Thas not only caused committing a crime that can troubles and losses to their make one regret or even be citizens but also made some held accountable by society. media lose their part of He added that a journalist professional reporting and should only inform the credibility as they engage general public about in political propaganda. the happenings and let They are reporting without responsible powers deal with evidence and engaging in other stuff. fueling the feud. Noting that when a journalist fails to be neutral, For over the last five he/she becomes a dangerous months, the fourth estate destroyer as a bomb, as a has fueled the spat and very unknown killer virus. aggravated the tension The society has given us the between the two countries President Kagame on a visit to the Rwanda Uganda border. chance to hold the candle in promoting propaganda, with Rwanda through twisted to what politicians by criminal Paul Kagame›s of truth, and if we choose to instead of reporting facts and the media because we do wish be told and portrayed die hard-Kin Kalisa, The light some and ignore others, serving the public interest. believe that the established to the audience as if they Ugandan president clearly either we will be punished by At least 10 online, print and diplomatic avenues exist, were public relations firms is a man with a lot to hide, that society or perish it, Mr. magazine for both countries functional and effective in or government mouthpieces, What Is Behind SoftPower Hakuzwumuremyi clarified. have jeopardized journalism addressing any issues either and Uganda›s The New Anti-Rwanda Propaganda? The Executive Secretary at ethics and principles by country may have. The media Vision and Soft power have Rwanda Propaganda Rwanda Media Commission counter attacking each or journalists that are biased, always published one side against Uganda divisionary Emmanuel Mugisha said other’s country political inaccurate or deliberately stories that point a finger from police aided illegal that media should be neutral and diplomatic affairs, distorting information only to the leaders of the other repatriation. and objective in covering giving in to be used by time and events will prove country and their wrong side. Dr Christopher Kayumba, conflicts. politicians, propagandists them wrong, Uganda’s In late May, The New a senior lecturer at Rwanda’s Currently, there are several and government officials to media Spokesperson Offono Times produced a big piece School of Journalism, Rwandans who cannot cross advance their ambitions and Oppondo told PanAfrican emphasizing that war has always argued in to Uganda even when their political differences. Vision in a phone interview. between Uganda and Rwanda various opinion pieces that parents in Uganda died. Regional observers and For instance, a media house was inevitable, creating governments should leave No media in Rwanda has many other professionals in Rwanda such as Igihe.com, an atmosphere of fear and media to their own devices reported that, such that from both countries are Rushyashya an online media, aggravating tensions among in order not to fall in the somehow the decision- wondering why the media will wake up tomorrow and citizens of both countries. same mistake the genocidal makers in both countries can does not uphold its principles put down a headline about Some of the headlines government did in 1994 in be coaxed over the suffering on informing, educating and what politicians think would for each country›s media Rwanda. of innocent people. entertaining the public but be informing the other side house: By hating Rwanda All these media platforms It is said that Rwandan instead disseminating hatred which would also use “Soft Museveni wished to buy are aware that it is unethical citizens on the other hand are messages while regulatory Power” Command Post media banished mother’s affection, to be used to promote rotting behind safe houses in bodies for two countries house to hit back, all in the How Uganda’s troll army agendas against journalism Uganda without being taken have kept silent on the name of journalists who are wages war of misinformation principles, moreover not to court. It would be the work malpractices. supposed to know their role, on Rwanda, Museveni paying attention to the tragic of journalists to report such I wonder whether the duties and the sensitivity of finally admits he met history of the 1994 Genocide situations as advocacy for media who are giving in to the fourth estate once it is tycoon Rujugiro, ‘Rwanda against the Tutsi. the masses but they are only political agendas are aware misused. doesn’t need mediation According to Joseph playing political tunes. of their responsibility for The New Times with Uganda’, Museveni’s Hakuzwumuremyi, a Senior Why are journalists which they could be held publications and KT letter to Kagame triggers Reporter at Umuryango.rw not learning from history accountable. Press, both Rwanda›s pro- funny reactions, raises more said that being a journalist that could bounce back or It›s Uganda›s policy not government English media, questions, NBS Television/ requires selflessness. It›s very repeat itself? This makes to comment on our relations will write about current affairs Media Uganda is owned possible to cover the story me reflect on the 1994 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 13 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

attacking each April Press Conference, he addressing journalists on other through preferred the relations for Tuesday at Kabale State Lodge words exchanged Rwanda- Uganda to be dealt after meeting local leaders by their heads of «outside media hype». from Kigezi Sub-region where state, ministers In a clear change of he was preaching wealth and other strategy, President Paul creation in homesteads, said prominent Kagame told a media briefing that mutual talks between government in Kigali that the current Uganda and Rwanda to officials. conflict with Uganda will be revive the cross border trade Media has been dealt with away from the full between the countries which the best tool to glare of the media as they are was disrupted after the disseminate their “hyping” it. closure of the Gatuna post, propaganda, Asked about the state are progressing. politicians’ of Rwanda and Uganda “Recently we met the ambitions, relations in view of recent Rwandan leader in Angola blackmailing spats, the President said: and we discussed about the and fabricating “Yes there is discomfort and border issue. Leave it to us. stories based issues we have to resolve, Talks shall continue until the on each side’s but I would rather we focus matter is completely resolved. sentiments. on resolving problems in the It does not make sense to keep When I was EAC somewhere else outside talking on radios but what is studying mass the media”. important is to ensure that media and He added: “we will be the border issue is resolved,” society, I learnt informing you on different Mr Museveni said. “[The that the media things we will be working on.” issue] took me to Angola to sets the agenda “I think [the Rwanda- meet President Kagame and which currently Uganda conflict] is a problem other leaders and I will not the two countries I believe will also come to reveal what we discussed.” Rwanda Genocide that was now serving long term have opted to use pass. There will always be Last week, Ugandan mostly fueled by local media imprisonment in Rwanda and to promote their ambitions problems between countries, President Yoweri Museveni involving many journalists outside Rwanda including and giving space to any form with different magnitudes. and his Rwandan counterpart who reported what ended up Ngeze Hassan who was of criticism, undermining I would rather we continue Paul Kagame met in Luanda, enhancing violence and mass Chief Editor of Kangura, the the different members who finding ways of addressing and signed a memorandum killings that stained the world newspaper which published are not working closely with problems outside of the of understanding (MoU) to history. the stories that sowed hatred them. media.” cease the hostilities between The so-called ‘stars’ in to its full indoctrination. Rwanda President Paul His Counterpart President the two central African states. journalism by then are The two countries have kept Kagame said, during the Yoweri Museveni, while

14 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs What future for Cameroon with life sentences of Separatist Leaders? By Boris Esono Nwenfor

fter a yearlong trial, the Military Acourt in Yaounde, Cameroon’s political capital sentenced to life imprisonment 10 separatist leaders of the movement. Sisiku Julius Ayuk Tabe, leader of the Interim Government of Ambazonia together with nine others was convicted on charges including terrorism and secession. They were equally ordered to pay in FCFA 250 billion to the court. To the Communication and Media Committee of the Defense Team of Sessekou Ayuk Julius Tabe and others, Media and Communication The noctunal trial and sentencing of Sisiku Julius Ayuk Tabe has been been strongly condemned by local Chairman Amungwa Tanyi and some international actors. Nicodemous stated, “Let the self-proclaimed president of In a communiqué send out than to unite and increase by a Nigerian court in March entire world be informed that “Ambazonia”, a breakaway by the jailed leaders it stated, our resolve, fortitude and this year. In late May, Ayuk at exactly 5:38 am Tuesday state declared in October “The pronouncement of a life determination to complete Tabe said he was willing to the 20th day of August 2019, 2017 in two English-speaking imprisonment sentence on us the journey to ,” the take part in talks with the the President of the Federal . The by the ‘Tribunal Militaire in communiqué read in part. government, provided this Republic of Ambazonia and verdict brings to an end a Yaoundé’ amidst unbelievable While comparing their took place abroad and the the nine (9) others have been case that has been dragging irregularities is a validation imprisonment to an alleged government released all who slammed the life sentence for more than a year now. of our self-determination military killing of a four- had been detained since the by the Yaounde Military Observers say this decision and claim to a sovereign and month old baby, Martha start of the Anglophone crisis. Tribunal in gross violation has killed all hopes of an free Southern ”. Mbu Neba in Muyuka, Renowned Human Rights of their rights as accused effective back to school in the “This despicable judgment the incarcerated leaders Lawyer Barrister Felix Agbor persons.” South West and North West should leave each and every entreated Anglophone Balla in a Facebook post Ayuk Tabe was the first Regions. one of us with no other option Cameroonians to be categorically stated, “The united against the regime sentencing of Sisiku and Co. of President Paul Biya. to life imprisonment is an “Irrespective of who you are, affront to due process and the and what you stand for, we rule of law”. “The right to fair all are nothing but captives, trial is a fundamental human waiting for the opportunity right. The sham process to be slammed such life is a reflection of the sham imprisonment sentences management of the country.” for the fortunate ones, or Back-to-school witnesses outright butchering even on low turnout across NW and your bed,” they decried. SWRs In January 2018, Ayuk Tabe The 2019/2020 school was arrested with 46 other year across the South West separatists in the Nigerian region of Cameroon has capital Abuja. They were then witnessed a low turnout The trial was conducted in French, a language not understood by most of the handed over to Cameroon in by students on Monday leaders a move that was ruled illegal September 2, 2019. The low PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 15 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

turnout across the South Barrister Ayah Ayah can be linked Abine on a post questioned to the imposed lockdown by the reason behind the long separatist fighters across the lockdown instituted by North West and South west separatist leaders across the Regions. English speaking regions. Before school resumption, He wonders why someone/ separatist fighters had people will impose a lengthy imposed two sets of lockdown lockdown on other people’s beginning September 2 to families after relocating their 6 and from September 9 own families to Yaoundé/ to 13. These lockdown are Douala/Bafoussam, which aimed at frustrating efforts families of theirs peacefully to get school resume in the enjoy life to the fullest therein Anglophone regions. as they punish the families Security personnel are evident in the war stricken Regions. The low turnout of students of others who chose to stay down hell on any camp/ agent, the newly created 1,850 dead, according to the in Buea was the same scenario on GZ, or who simply can’t individual who tries to find a words, rather than look at International Crisis Group witnessed in educational afford to leave. midway with the said enemy him/herself in the mirror (ICG) think tank, while the establishments across Limbe. “Why people/someone will by thinking differently from and face the truth and make UN says 530,000 people have Many of the schools remained relocate his family/loved- them, in a bid to put an end amends.” fled their homes. According shut while the few who braved ones to la Republic, what to the current genocide” He The Anglophone crisis to UN aid officials, more the odds to open their doors he/they call enemy territory, added which has been going on for than one in six people in witnessed just a handful of make life comfortable for He equally wondered “why more than 2 years now has Cameroon-4.3 million need students present. them therein, and at the people/someone will find it seen many killed, displaced humanitarian aid, an increase Opposition on prolonged same time vow never to have easier to brandish anyone or become refugees in of 30 percent from 2018. lockdown across Anglophone anything to do with the same who speaks these bitter truths neighboring Nigeria. Attacks Regions ‘enemy’, as he/she/they rain- as ‘compromised’, la republic by both sides have left No! Cameroon won't breathe after Paul Biya By Amos Fofung

magine waking up one The Strongman of Africa morning to roaster crows Sitting comfortably as Iand chipping birds in Africa›s oldest leader, Cameroon and you’re faced Paul Biya, who has ruled with the new reality that Paul Cameroon with an iron fist Biya, the “strongman” of since 1982 entered his 7th Africa is no more; no longer term last year and will remain president of the Cameroons. in power until 2025. Entering his 7th term at age Holding a firm grip of 85 last year after a landslide the executive since he took victory as is always the case, over from Cameroon’s first Biya has proven that he has president, no intentions of quitting in 1892, Paul Biya before now power. Should his wish gets had unmatched control and granted and he clings on till President Biya is not showing signs of leaving power but the crisis in the loyalty. life escapes him, what will country will outlive his presidency Escalation of the the next days, weeks and President to mean Paul Biya, With calls for secession insist they were cheated Anglophone crisis in the two years be like for the over 25 and their audiences are loving from the North West and in the 2018 presidential English-speaking regions million Cameroonians? Most it. South West regions who elections, and pressure from with call for secession coupled of whom were born and have For 36 years and counting, want to create their own the Northerners who believe with pro-Maurice Kamto grown to know him as their he has succeeded to control country called Ambazonia, power needs to return to movement known as Brigade only president. every sphere of public and - continuous attack from them after one of theirs did Anti-Sardinards, BAS that Yes, a handful of private affairs in Cameroon to Boko Haram terrorist sect in so well as first president; yes! is campaigning for Biya’s Cameroonian comedians an extend where forecasting Northern Cameroon, - protest Cameroon won’t breath after removal now threatened his jokingly attribute the noun life after him seems hopeless. from the western region who Paul Biya. reign. 16 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs The campaign to have Biya all Cameroonians, if we all justified. “think about his legacy and Douala was beaming with removed by the BAS who come out with the military With an overwhelming act like Nelson Mandela”. business and economic claim their president is jailed on our side, he will have no majority in Cameroon’s What followed was immense potentials. Cameroon was politician, Maurice Kamto option but to leave power,” houses of parliament and at criticism with supporters of the pride of , has fallen on deaf ears. Except the militant who requested the constitutional council, the Etoudi occupant calling we were not compared with for the protest organized anonymity for fear of his word and decisions are on the ambassador to know or Chad as is the case in Switzerland that repression said. transformed into laws with his limits or pack his bags. now, but with - forced Paul Biya and his wife Having Cameroon’s little or no objections. He was accused of and on several occasion we to cut short their private stay military on their side to Charged with appointing all attempting to meddle in the topped them,” says Cletus and return home, the anti- oust Africa’s second longest top members of government election and was summoned Fongoh who has experienced Biya group hasn’t recorded serving president might seem right down to divisional by the Minister of External Cameroon’s two presidents. any successes in Cameroon. far-fetch. After suffering a officials, including members Relations and schooled “When I came to Chicago After suffering numerous coup attempt in 1984, Paul of state corporations, on diplomacy and what in 2005, they were parts arrest and detention by Biya made it his mission that institutions and agencies, is expected of him as an of Chicago that were less security officials in Yaounde such will never happen to him Paul Biya enjoys loyalty ambassador. beautify than Douala in 1974, and Douala, those opposing again, and he’s done this by which transcend to supports With backing from the I was very surprised that my the regime of octogenarian consolidating power. during polls. state-run media and some country could compete at president Paul Biya have In the armed forces, he Legacy private media organs loyal to such a level.” learnt to look before they reigns as commander-in-chief Considered by the West the regime, Biya’s ideologies That’s not the case today, leap. with unquestionable control as Africa’s most experienced and policies are propagated Cameroon’s glorious days are One of the members who over the navy, air force and autocrat, the question of what with projections of a long over. spoke to African Argument motorized battalions. will be Paul Biya’s legacy – booming economy and better This is especially true from Douala in approximate At the judiciary; he is has often been received with tomorrow for all who rally as the country has been English said; “we have been powered with abilities to harsh reaction especially by behind the head of state. admitted into the circle talking with some military appoint, promote, sanction members of his government Nonetheless, many are of Heavily Indebted Poor officials for them to see why and dismiss all magistrates and political circle. those who believe that Paul country several times as we need to stand together in the country. Due to the Before his reelection, US Biya will leave Cameroon far the absentee president against Paul Biya as was the influence he exalts in the ambassador to Cameroon, worse than he met it in 1982. maneuvers and extends his case in Algeria and South judiciary, his interferences Peter Henry Barlerin, called “In 1976 when I visited stay in power despite his Sudan. It is for the benefit of are never questioned but on President Paul Biya to Douala for my first time, growing unpopularity. Robert Mugabe: Another African Revolutionary Leader Bows Out. By Chief Charles A. Taku* remarkable event governmental action. Hardly, occurred during the particularly in Africa, Arebirth Conference where the politicization of the African Bar Association and militarization of justice that took place from 4th to 7th are the staying powers of September 2016 in Harare dictatorial regimes. Zimbabwe based on which I found in this circumstance I will can authoritatively that the role of law operated make a personal assessment in Zimbabwe under of the personality of the President Mugabe despite departed President Robert the excruciating sanctions Mugabe. Some members imposed by the supposed of the opposition party and democratic world which civil society activists who greatly stifled the economy organized a demonstration Robert Mugabe was President of Zimbabwe for over two decades. of Zimbabwe and rendered against the government of it had appealed against the political party and civil the detained persons were its currency almost useless. President Mugabe and were court order. society activists. The African immediately released. This The police intervention to detained by the Police were The matter was reported to Bar Association summoned is unprecedented in many abate the demonstrations in ordered released by a High the African Bar Association the Attorney General of countries that purport to which the opposition officials Court in Harare but the by our colleagues of the Zimbabwe and told him to hold the keys to democratic and civil society activists were government failed to execute Zimbabwe Bar and some respect the court order and constitutional governance arrested, while condemnable, the court order arguing that members of the aggrieved he promptly obliged, and where the rule of law informs did not lead to the extensive PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 17 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

bloodletting and destruction and hated in equal measure. that is the hallmark of what Those who hated him did so I may venture to now call passionately although they African vampiric endemic hardly ever provided cogent dictatorships. reasons to justify their hate. If the question were asked When challenged to do so, to supposed gatekeepers and they caricatured him as a town criers of democracy, brutal dictator. Compared whether Robert Mugabe was with dictators in the a saint or sinner? Many of continent who are sustained them will be impeded by the and supported by the same biblical injunction of who powers that passionately has not sin throwing the resented Mugabe, Mugabe first stone from providing an can be said to be a saint. He answer. did not deploy the armed Despite political fiction with the current leadership in Zimbabwe, President Let me begin with Great forces of his country to turn Mugabe was treated with all honors. Britain. The Lancaster House their guns to slaughter the Agreement was intended to most of the people. Also, it question: Was Mugabe a saint for him to run begging for a people he swore to defend address a historical wrong would permanently deprive or sinner? Can the land issue return of Ian Smith or for a and protect when he came to caused against the people most of the people rights to and related human rights recolonization of Zimbabwe. power. He kept faith with his of Zimbabwe by Great their ancestral lands. violations based on which The revolutionary that he oath in this regard. He did Britain. A critical issue that History retains that it the sanctions were imposed was, Comrade Mugabe kept not auction out the natural Robert Mugabe placed on was the offers made by on Zimbabwe be blamed on faith with his liberation resources of his country to the table for determination the British and American Mugabe? ideology and refused to Western or Eastern economic was that of land reform. governments to compensate I submit that to the extent betray the independence of predators for personal gain as That issue was central to the white citizens who sold land that Robert Mugabe made his people that he fought for it is the case in many African independence issue, because held by them no matter how the land reform issue a through blood and toil. dictatorships. No matter independence per se without it was originally obtained, critical component of the The persons to whom he how he was perceived, he a determination of the land to facilitate reconciliation, Lancaster House Agreement, handed over seized land might compelled overt and covert ownership problem would so-called the “Willing buyer, he should be judged based on not have had the resources to respect from his admirers have been meaningless. Willing seller” principle how the agreement reached develop the lands due in part and haters alike. Indeed, The saying in my Bangwa that pressurized Robert was executed and not based to the sanctions emplaced to everyone will find something ancestral land of birth that Mugabe to reluctantly sign on western media reports stifle the economy and cause good to say about him now land is life is not a subject the Lancaster Agreement. He and ideologically tainted potential regime change. The that he is dead. of reasonable controversy signed on the condition that propaganda. change of regime occurred. Mugabe is dead but history in Africa. Otumba T.O.S the land reform he sought From a dispassionate However, those who think has chatted a place for him Benson, the distinguished and obtained the assurances examination of this issue, that the present government among great Africa leaders colorful Nigerian stateman about would occur after ten Mugabe comes out as a or others to come in future and liberation revolutionaries and First Republic Minister of years. The funding that was principled, honest, patriotic, will erase or reverse the of all times such as the Information aptly stated that to operate it from 1980 to visionary and a selfless imprints of Mugabe on land Osegyfo Dr , “land belongs to people, some 1990 by the American and crusader for justice for his reforms or his ideological Kambarege Dr Julius dead, others alive and others British governments and people. He must be praised freedom agenda in Zimbabwe Nyerere, Patrice Lumumba, unborn”. In putting the land their pledged support for the and not maligned. should be ready for a long Amilcar Cabral, Milton Obote, reform issue on the table land reforms after ten years Zimbabwe lies in economic wait. Samora Marshal, Aghostino of negotiation when others failed to materialize. They ruins not because Mugabe Mugabe was a commanding Neto, Nelson Mandela, Oum were more concerned with and not Mugabe reneged desired it that way, but continental voice on economic Nyobe, Ernest Ouandie, power for the sake of power, on their pledges on the land because of the sanctions that sovereignty and resistance Thomas Sankara, Augustine Robert Mugabe distinguished reform issue which was a were unjustly imposed by the to the recolonization of Ngom Jua, Dr EML Endeley, himself as a visionary central issue in the Lancaster very powers that initiated Africa through unbalanced Dr Bate Besong and many leader who was closer to House Agreement. This was and violated the Lancaster trade deals such as the Doha others. Africa has lost a great the heartbeat of his people’s the powder keg that ignited Agreement to the detriment rounds of negotiations, revolutionary leader. His realistic humanity. Without the disagreement between of the people of Zimbabwe. reinvigorated neo-colonial shoes will hard to fill. land reforms, independence Mugabe and the West leading Keen observers will conclude onslaught on the continent, * Chief Charles Taku, is the per se would be deceitful and to the land seizures and the that the Zimbabwe sanction emerging challenges such as immediate past President of meaningless, call it a scam elaborate sanction regime regime intended to cripple, climate change, immigration, the International Criminal for it would tantamount to imposed by the West and and it indeed cripple the endemic diseases, and regime Court Bar Association- ICCBA granting sovereignty over the campaign to “satanize” economy of Zimbabwe hoping change. land that did not belong to Mugabe. This brings back the to bring Mugabe on his knees Robert Mugabe was loved 18 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs

PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 19 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa Mugabe a leader among leaders Happyton Mabhuya Bonyongwe*

N Friday September 6 2019, I woke up to Othe news that former President Comrade Robert Gabriel Mugabe was no more. His death was something I dreaded for years as I worked to secure his wellbeing. This larger-than-life figure in the history of Zimbabwe was but the embodiment of life and longevity. He even aimed to live beyond 100 years. The news of his passing came as a shock, even though he was 95 and had been unwell for some time. The truth is, no matter how much one may psychologically prepare, death remains a dreadful and sorrowful event. So I am very Then head of Zimbabwe Central Intelligence Organisation Happyton Bonyongwe with Constantine sad and have not found the Chiwenga, the commander of the Zimbabwean Army listen to President Robert Mugabe . Photo credit ALEXANDER JOE AFP Getty Images energy to do anything else since he died, than mourn my Songambele Group of the Brigadier Hashim Mbita would pick up my life, go back Zimbabwe Defence Forces former leader and president. Zimbabwe African National who led the Organisation to school and integrate into scored successes in counter- The death of Mugabe Liberation Army (Zanla) of African Unity’s (OAU’s) civilian life. Little did I know insurgency operations reminded me of the manner combatants who had just Liberation Committee, that fate would deal me a card in Mozambique, and in in which comandante Fidel completed training under the followed by Mayor Urimbo, where my professional career conventional warfare in the Castro, the Cuban leader, instruction of the Tanzania the Zanu Political Commissar would be judged on the basis Democratic Republic of the dealt with his impending People’s Defence Forces who did some moral raising of my service to Zimbabwe Congo in pursuit of Pan- death. He had battled and and Chinese experts of the before the leaders’ speeches. under the leadership of Africanist objectives. They survived cancer for many People’s Liberation Army. Nkomo spoke last. We Mugabe. were also to participate years and when he knew Mugabe was the leader were dazzled by Mugabe’s When Independence came most successfully in various that his end was near, he was of the Zimbabwe African intelligence, eloquence in 1980, I became an officer United Nations peace ready and told the world that National Union (Zanu). He and mastery of the English in the Zimbabwe National missions, including Somalia “the time was coming when I came to Nachingwea together language. In that regard, Army. Mugabe was the and Angola. Zimbabwean will go the way many others with Dr Joshua Nkomo he was in a class of his own. Prime Minister and Minister forces were recognised as went before”. who was the leader of the Our Tanzanian instructors of Defence up to 1987 and professional forces; the envy Not long after this, Zimbabwe African People’s were equally captivated later the President and of many on the continent. the indomitable Castro Union (Zapu). by him and remarked Commander-in-Chief; the The discipline which departed on November 25 The two were the leaders afterwards that it was clear man who commissioned me Mugabe urged on the officer 2016. Mugabe was there to of the Patriotic Front, an that Zimbabwe should into the officer ranks. The corps of the defence forces bid farewell to that iconic alliance forged just before the maintain the Westminster commissioning scroll which is a leadership quality which revolutionary. Now, it is our Geneva Conference in 1976 system of government, with he signed ordered me to inter he lived by. This was very turn to bid farewell to our by Zanu and Zapu, the two Nkomo as President and alia, “at all times exercise and evident from inter alia his own iconic revolutionary who liberation movements which Mugabe as Prime Minister of diligently discipline in arms strict exercise regime, diet has now also gone the way of waged the armed struggle independent Zimbabwe. those under my command and immaculate dressing in all on earth. for the independence of the At the time, I was pre- and to observe and follow his own life. He was a stickler While I joined the former British colony of occupied with being a good such lawful orders and for detail who strove for liberation struggle in 1975, I Southern Rhodesia, present- guerrilla fighter, and I didn’t directives as I would receive excellence. first saw Mugabe in 1977 in day Zimbabwe. think much about it. I was from time to time from him Meritocracy drove him, and Nachingwea, Tanzania, when Mugabe spoke first after not interested in politics, or any superior officer”. he did not care much about I was one of the 5000-strong introductions by Tanzania’s thinking that after the war, I Under his leadership, the where you came from, but 20 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs

as long as you were capable of the Central Intelligence he would entrust you to the Organisation (CIO) also mission. He was a man of recorded in his book, Serving principle and the whole world Secretly, that of the Prime knows that he consistently Ministers he served, Mugabe stood by his beliefs. Once he was the best in patiently took a stand, he could hardly listening to the reports and be moved. briefings which he was given. He really believed in Being a good listener is a the emancipation and most rare quality in a leader. empowerment of the black This trait is probably what man in Zimbabwe, Africa and served the man well and goes even the diaspora. His views toward explaining his staying on the reform of the United power in politics. Nations Security Council are Those who knew him well well-known globally, having will even recall that, although been the main theme of his he was served by many aides, valedictory speech to the he would, especially in the chairmanship of the African early years, take his own Union in January 2016. notes in important meetings, President Mnangagwa paying his respects .Photo credit Siphiwe Sibeko, He believed that Africans giving him the ability Reuters. could do anything other races to address issues raised could do, and this has been effectively. He also had a that these are virtuous landscape of Zimbabwe his early years in office where ingrained in the psyche of sharp mind which could store qualities which will continue through the window. education probably stands every Zimbabwean. We are and quickly process a lot of to serve our country well into I followed his gaze to the out as the most successful. free in mind and spirit. We information. I shall forever the future. African sunset, well-known Land reform and the are independent and speak be grateful for his confidence In the years I served him for its beauty, and watched economic empowerment of our minds; we do not lie down and the support he gave to the directly on a daily basis, I was the rays of the sun dance indigenous Zimbabweans and allow others to walk all intelligence community when struck by the man’s love for on the savannah landscape were to define his later years over us. For this we should I was director-general. his country, his patriotism, below through the double in power. In 2000, he said to thank Mugabe who was above I thank him also for the which came through in all he glass fronting the windows. It me at one point that he could all a true patriot who loved honour he bestowed on his did. The country went through was very beautiful. not allow a situation where Zimbabwe. Leaving the army intelligence and security a most difficult period as we We were caught in the each time he drove on a major was a most difficult time service, the CIO, each year. faced a huge backlash to the moment and I made the highway, he would be seized for me, but as a cadre of the He never missed a single land reform programme. The remark that Zimbabwe was by the realisation that his struggle, you go where you graduation ceremony. issues of sanctions and the a very beautiful country. The people owned only the road are deployed. His commitment to duty in illegal regime change agenda former president, in his quick on which he was driving and In hindsight, however, this regard was unparalleled. have now been documented and witty way, remarked that the few metres on either side I now consider myself to It was on such occasions in various biographies of this beauty and riches which of it, while most of the rich have been most fortunate that he dazzled us by his some of the players. lay in the land was the reason pasture and agricultural land to have been selected and intelligence and academic In his famous speech why ‘the British would not let as far as the eye could see, to appointed to the President’s prowess. His performance to the World Summit on us be!” the horizon, belonged to the Department in 1998. I was ensured that we remained Sustainable Development For Zimbabweans of white commercial farmers. to work with Mugabe on a in no doubt that he was the in Johannesburg, South course, this country is not This had to be rectified. daily basis, first as the Deputy leader of the Zimbabwean Africa, in 2002, his “Blair only beautiful, but it is the His achievement in this Director-General, and later intelligence and new officers keep your England and I only one we have got. It is regard cannot be taken away as Director-General. I was to became aware that they were keep my Zimbabwe” speech the reason why thousands from him. Sure, there will be become Mugabe’s longest- joining a most noble and was an expression of this of heroic comrades, country debate on the impact of his serving director- general of intellectually postured and deep love for his country men, women and children policies, but Zimbabweans intelligence. primed profession. and the frustration he was paid the ultimate price during know that he meant well My job was to brief him Such induction into the experiencing from the then the liberation war. and was serious in his quest on security matters, and as service, and the inculcation British Prime Minister Tony Mugabe’s patriotism also to empower them. Mugabe educated and knowledgeable of academic and professional Blair. found expression in his was a principled and very as the man was, I have never ethos and standards ensured I remember one day when policies. He gave meaning and genuine person. These met such a good listener. I the better execution of our we flew in the presidential content to the emancipation policies were later extended was not surprised to discover mission, a process which on helicopter from Gweru to of his people through a whole to minerals and other sectors that Ken Flower, the late many occasions moved our Harare in the late afternoon. range of policy thrusts in of the economy. The death founding Director-General country forward. I believe I could see him survey the various sectors, especially in of Mugabe must also focus PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 21 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

He had such a long life at his Blue Roof house, I and did so many things did not know that I would and as a human being, he never again see someone was like all of us humans, who meant so much to me. fallible. Indeed we all make To the Mugabe family, and mistakes. However, from the especially Mrs Grace Mugabe, outpouring of grief I have Bona and the boys – Robert noticed, especially from the (Junior) and Bellarmine – common man and woman, I extend the deepest and including the criticisms from heartfelt condolences of my some people who suffered family and I. from him, many today I also lost my father and it is appreciate the good he did not easy, the pain never goes and are genuinely mourning away. I urge you to find solace the man. from the fact that he was a Some who were in the great man who had a long and opposition during his rule illustrious life. He is being have said that they recognise mourned by the majority of and appreciate his immense Zimbabweans, and many in Nelson Chamisa, left, leader of the main opposition party in Zimbabwe, contribution to the birth and Africa and around the world. consoles Grace, widow of former Zimbabwean leader Robert Mugabe. Credit AP. growth of Zimbabwe. His For me personally, I say death can therefore serve to farewell Comrade President our minds to the task which United States, who pledged President Nelson Mandela. unite us all at various levels, Robert Gabriel Mugabe, the remains to be done. to resolve the intractable His response was: “Leaders as Zimbabweans. This would leader of our revolution. Mugabe’s focus on the problems of the world, such build themselves up by their make us worthy successors to I shall forever be grateful African personality and the as Cuba. own actions”. Mugabe, a wise the good things he did. for your contribution to my need to progress it, all over This was a consequence person who had a mind of his As I mourn Mugabe, I liberation, education and the world always came to the of Mugabe’s carefully own, was loyal to his fellow regret that after 19 years of intellectual development. You forefront. He followed the considered appreciation of African leaders; he never seeing him almost every day, always appreciated me when progress made by Africans the foreign policy and other disparaged them to anyone. circumstances did not allow I did well, and I promise that everywhere in sport, the arts, intricacies and nuances which Like him or not, Mugabe’s me to say a proper goodbye. I will strive to put on a “good film (even the Oscars were the first African-American legacy cannot be erased from The last time I saw him was show” in all I do, and this in a focus), law and politics, President of the US had to history. He was the author at his Blue Roof residence honour of your memory. science and technology, and navigate. of many actions which could on 21 November 2017 when Go well Shefu, a leader in the diaspora, inclusive of In a meeting with President not be ignored. He was as Minister of Justice, among leaders, my icon, my African Americans who had of undoubtedly a leader of a Legal and Parliamentary hero, I will never forget. I a special place in his heart. in 1999, Mugabe was asked struggle and a nation. Our Affairs I was tasked to go to will ever remember. Rest in His own intractable stand- whether he thought that the founding father, he was a Parliament, which was sitting Eternal Peace. off with Blair ignited by the then incoming President leader among leaders. In at the Harare International *Culled from The land issue was in my humble of South Africa, Thabo multi-lateral fora, he defined Conference Centre that day, Indeopendent (Zim.) submission never foisted for Mbeki, would measure up as issues without fear or favour. to deliver his resignation Bonyongwe is a former CIO resolution on , president and be able to fill He led and achieved results. letter. Director-General and retired the 44th President of the the shoes left by the great He is our hero; Africa’s hero. As I went out of that door Major-General

Pan African Visions MAGAZINE, 7614 Green Willow Court, Hyattsville,MD 20785 Tel:2404292177, email: [email protected], [email protected] 22 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Ghana's Special Prosecutor; a cover for the rhetoric on the war against corruption in Ghana or genuine intentions with bottle necks? By Papisdaff Abdullah Ali. n March 2018, Martin and resource disbursement Alamisi Amidu was of the office is anything Iappointed as Ghana’s but certain. The opposition first Special Prosecutor by National Democratic President Nana Addo Danqua Congress (NDC) is however Akufo-Addo. The former not shocked by the seeming Attorney General’s job is to inaction of the Special investigate and prosecute Prosecutor. The party’s corrupt persons in public General Secretary Johnson service. The announcement Asiedu Nketia declared his of this new portfolio was ‘prophesy’ that “Martin a fulfilment of a major Amidu would come under campaign promise by the criticism for doing nothing” governing New Patriotic had come to pass. Member of Party (NPP) to save the public Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu with President Akuffo and Vice President Parliament for Tamale North, purse which they alleged Bawumia. Ghanaians are still expecting results in the fight against corruption. Alhassan Suhuyini, expressed was being heavily looted treasuries, Mr Amidu is and Minister of Justice failed us.” Others who have concerns about President by the erstwhile Mahama considered by many in Ghana said he is being starved of also petitioned the Special Akufo-Addo’s approach to administration. Ghana, like to be very independent and resources either deliberately Prosecutor on cases of alleged the fight against corruption. most countries on the African strong willed. A former or inadvertently. corruption express open “Corruption under Akufo- continent has been battling President in Ghana, Jerry “One year down the line, disappointment in the slow Addo is nothing to write with financial infractions, John Rawlings said “The [the Office of the Special pace of work by President home about. Anytime there and exploitation of state President [Akufo-Addo] Prosecutor](OSP) has only a Akufo Addo’s entrusted man is scandal in this government resources among others by couldn’t have made a better small three bedroom house as to fight graft in Ghana. They the only pattern Akufo-Addo persons in public office for choice.” His statement on the an Office woefully inadequate feel Mr Amidu has not walked takes is, ‘suspend’, ‘cleared’, personal gains. Indeed, issues nomination said Mr. Amidu for lack of sheer physical his talk nearly 18 months ‘reinstate’ or ‘reassign’ and bothering on corruption rose above “partisanship” and space to accommodate after his assumption of office. this attitude isn’t changing. often makes headlines in the recognized him as “a highly any reasonable number of Some actors in the Civil This is the rotten pattern they media, making it convenient principled citizen.” employees, lack of subsidiary Society space have also been know,” he stated. for the political class to spin Eight months after legislation, and consequently demanding openness from Cases and or center their election his nomination and also financially crippled the OSP while questioning The later part of August campaign messages on that. parliamentary approval, without any ability to acquire the delays in getting results. 2019 saw the Office of the As a member of Ghana’s the Government of Ghana the requisite expensive Edem Senanu of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) largest opposition party, gave the Office of the Special operational anti-corruption Citizens Movement Against sitting on a case involving the National Democratic Prosecutor GH¢180 million and other equipment for the Corruption has urged the the Chief Executive Officer of Congress (NDC), Martin with a promise to provide Office let alone to function office to be transparent and Ghana’s Public Procurement Amidu’s historic appointment additional resources later efficiently,” he wrote in open with information. «I Authority (PPA). Mr. was welcomed by many, this year. This comes after the article titled ‘The do not know whether it is the Agyenim Boateng Adjei. including civil society and series of lamentations by Whitaker Scenario – Stifling style of the Special Prosecutor He was suspended by the the general public due to the the Special Prosecutor over Independent Investigative not to give anything out, but President Akufo Addo in fact that his appointment lack of logistics and funds to Agencies of Funds’. it is not helpful,» he stressed. the wake of an investigative was a departure from the help his office carry out its His sentiments reflected Others wonder how report alleging improper usual practice in the country mandate of investigating and largely the concerns and structures had been set for conduct on his side. where most appointments prosecution. questions about what the the operation of the newly The suspended CEO are made on partisan basis. The written protest office has been doing since created six regions, but the according to an investigative Considering his exploits cited the resignation of US its inception. Dean of Studies government did not seem documentary titled as a citizen vigilante which Attorney General Jeff Session and Research at the Institute to have what it took to “Contracts for Sale” was resulted in winning back as a case which could be of Local Government establish the office properly found engaging in acts of millions of cedis allegedly repeated as a result of the Studies, Dr Oduro Osai, and completely to work selling government contracts paid illegally as judgment fate he is being left to face. is reported to have said, efficiently. This is because using a private company. debts back into the state The former Attorney General “the Special Prosecutor has even the budgetary allocation “You are accordingly being PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 23 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

invited both as the Chief Executive Officer of the Public Procurement Authority and a Director and Shareholder of the said companies to assist in the investigations pursuance of section 29 and 73 of the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959) and Regulation 10 of the office of the Special Prosecutor (Operations) Regulations, 2018” a letter from the Office of the Special Prosecutor said. Prior to that, the Special Prosecutor had filed one Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu has lamented about the obstacles he is facing. case in court; 24 others are Freddie Blay after fulfilling authentic, should rather be a executive secretary to run efforts in investigations into reportedly being investigated an expensive promise to get cause for concern for all, as the office and consult on the the same issues. For instance, by his office. Leaked each of the 275 constituencies it would mean that there was passage of the Legislative he said, some tax evasion documents purported to be a mini-bus in part. The $11m a mole in the office leaking Instrument to operationalize cases before the OSP were coming from the office of promise appealed to delegates information not meant for the Special Prosecutor’s also being investigated by Martin Amidu shows there and got him retained as the public yet. «The list that Act, 2017 (Act 915) was still the Economic and Organized are 25 cases on his desk at the NPP National Chairman. is supposed to come out, outstanding. Crime Office (EOCO). Dr moment. Former President His re-election however according to the law, is a No lawyers have been Asante also identified gaps in John Mahama who is seeking ignited accusations of vote- list of investigated cases. recruited yet, a human the financing and operations to be president again, is buying and questions about So if anyone puts out a list resource crisis that underlines of the OSP. reportedly being sought-after how Mr Blay who is also the of cases being investigated the office’s slow pace of work President Akufo Addo’s by the Special Prosecutor Ghana National Petroleum and others yet to be, it is not and fast-growing public sworn way out of political for his alleged role in the Commission (GNPC) Board right,» she said in response criticism. “Without a bigger graft in Ghana is through diversion of $13m from the chairman could pull off such to a publication detailing place, new officers would a man he has appointed E.O Group, a company with a deal that included funding the cases at the office of the not have a workings space. Special Prosecutor, first a 3.5% interest in Ghana’s from banks. Special Prosecutor. However, the processes of in the history of the West 2007 oil find. The former Again, former Chief She said as the chair of recruitment can start, in African Country. Martin President who is said to be Executive of the Bulk Oil the board, she did not know anticipation of the office Amidu, a former Attorney a respondent in the case has Storage and Transport about current investigations being ready. This means the General and Minister for ridiculed the claims. This is (BOST) Alfred Obeng at the office, neither did President must exercise his Justice may have an enviable an allegation made by the Boateng who has been any board member. «If we discretion to delegate the record of protecting the Special Prosecutor, Martin fingered in the decision to knew, that would amount to power of appointment of Staff public purse through his Amidu in December 2016 sell 1.8m barrels of crude oil interference in the operations to the Board or the Special personal initiatives and during his days of writing at a discounted price which of the office,» she said. «I Prosecutor himself as quickly exploits. But events, actions articles that became a source allegedly cost the nation 30m know the expectation of as possible,” Dr Asante said. and or inactions that has of media stories and political cedis in revenue is also of Ghanaians is to see some He again stressed the characterized his time in debates in Ghana. interest. The wife of maverick prosecutions; however, we need for the board of the office so far is anything but There is also a case of NPP MP, Kennedy Agyapong must make sure that the OSP to draft a medium-term encouraging. Already, there is money-laundering against who is a beneficiary of a $100 office works procedurally,» strategic plan for the office growing apprehension among Nana Oye Lithur, former million sole-sourced contract she stated. despite the fact that a lot of majority of Ghanaians; the Gender and Social Protection is also reported to be on the Issues things ought to be prioritized. skeptic are convinced that Minister in the Mahama list of the Special Prosecutor. Director for Advocacy «Not only does this ensure the office is a cover for the administration. Still in the and Policy Engagement continuity at their early stage; rhetoric on the war against NDC, a case against Mahama Authenticity of list at pro-democracy think it also provides a framework corruption in Ghana judging Ayariga, a former Minister Board Chairperson of tank, CDD-Ghana, , in an for those who want to support from what has happened of Information, who is the Office of the Special assessment of the office since the office,» he said. Dr Asante so far. But as time goes by, accused of evading tax in Prosecutor (OSP), Mrs Linda its establishment, said there also emphasized the need the optimists are patiently the importation of vehicles. Ofori-Kwafo, has asked the were gaps to be filled at all the for stronger coordination waiting to confirm their Also a subject of interest for Ghanaian public to disregard stages in the establishment among governmental anti- position that this is a genuine the Special Prosecutor is the a list of cases making the of the office. Dr Kojo Asante corruption institutions intention with bottle necks. governing party’s chairman, rounds. She said the list, if said the appointment of an because of the duplication of 24 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2

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PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 25 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa The Mentor's Foundation is impacting lives of vulnerable Cameroonians one project at a time By Amos Fofung t the belle of Mount with training and resources Cameroon, the to generate income for Ahighest Mountain themselves and their families. in , which This project is ongoing and stands imposingly at 4095 almost at the conclusive meters in the heart of Buea, phase of the first edition,” South West region, a local says the organization’s vision nongovernmental is restoring bearer. hope to vulnerable and less Project #2: Education privileged Cameroonians via Today its mentoring programs. In August 2017 faced with From supporting internally the impeding school boycott displaced persons, IDPs enforced by separatist forced to flee their homes due fighters who have sworn to to the countries simmering prevent school resumption Anglophone crisis, unless they gain their mentoring and assisting objective, The Mentor’s children through school thus Foundation launched an preparing them for official education-oriented TV examinations; to donating to Entrepreneurial workshops geared at preparing students for life after school. program that helped bridge the physically challenged and the gap between students and orphanages, The Mentor’s education, vocational Project #1: Empowering organization has repeatedly teachers. Foundation represents the training, sensitizations, Internally Displaced assisted groups of 15 women Lectures were delivered very scoop of humanity. poverty alleviation and women who are randomly selected, on live TV to thousands of Via its projects spanning promoting second generation The Anglophone Crisis trained and empowered to student audiences who could from the agricultural sector, agriculture. in Cameroon’s English- sustain themselves. not sit in school and receive education, vocational training With its partner speaking regions has forced “After realizing that lectures. An initiative which and skill empowerment, the organisations and more than 300,000 people to single mothers are amongst landed the organization an not-for-profit organization is stakeholders, the be internally displaced with the most affected after international award and empowering Cameroonians, humanitarian organization over 30,000 as refugees. being forcibly displaced, support. enabling them to be self- has engaged in the following Witnessing the ordeal of we are working in close Initially schedule to last sufficient as the country life-changing projects, all these women who could not collaboration with a foreign for just that academic year is faced with an economic geared at assisting the local afford to feed or provide organization to provide 15 since it was anticipated that impasse brought about by the populace of Cameroon. shelter for themselves, the internally displaced women school will effectively resume simmering separatist crisis come 2018, the program has and the war on terrorism in been up and running every its Northern regions. since due to the governments With dozens already inability to effectively ensure benefiting from the school resumption in the organization which launched troubled North West and its activities in 2016, the South West regions. beneficiaries in turn, use With an estimated 10,000 their acquired skills to enrich viewers who are all students their peers in their respective forced out of classrooms, the communities. program that was formally Led by Agbor Paul broadcasted on local TV Agbor, its Chief Executive will soon hit national TV Officer, The Mentor’s due to increase demand Foundation, THEMEFO, and the need to reach wider a nonprofit community- audiences. based organization has Project #3: its activities centered on; Children receive training via live televised programs. Entrepreneurship for 26 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs

IDP women benefit from agricultural incentives showcase their farms. Donation to orphans and widows.

youths proved very effective with widows and orphan motives to put smiles on the the centers so as to enable True to its objectives numerous positive feedbacks. In a bid to put a smile on faces of less privileged, and to them better care for the of empowering for socio- We gathered that plans are the faces of the less privilege, campaign for more assistance dozens of orphans they economic enhancement, afoot to organize them more The Mentor’s Foundation and support for them. sometime play host to. the Mentor’s Foundation regularly and rotatory in the paid a visit to a widow center, During each visit, tons Equally, the foundation organized a two-day regions two orphanages in Buea of food items, household is currently sponsoring a seminar in Buea, Cameroon Project #4: Provision of and another in Mutengene. provisions and didactic dozen 12 under privileged for students and stake Relief items to vulnerable These visits had as primary materials are handed over to children at high-school via holders of the South West its scholarship scheme. Region. The professional To the coordinator, Agbor development seminar had Paul Agbor, “education is a as main guest speakers Mr. necessity to all”. Peter Ngu Tayong from the In just two years of Harvard University and Mr. operation, the foundation has Ayum James-South West won the award for Best NGO Regional Coordinator for in Cameroon in 2017 by the Volunteerism. Guardian Post Newspaper, With a pulling crowd of an international award over 3,000 students and 200 from Future Africa Leaders educational stake holders, Award (FALA 2017) which attendees were groomed on recognized the necessity entrepreneurship and the and primordial role the importance of IT know-how foundation via its educational as the prepare to connect with TV program; “Education the job market. Today” was contributing in The training symposium the lives of school-deprived which was the first of its kind, Presenting FELA award to Mayor of Buea, Ekema Patrick Esunge,third from students. according to its organizers left.

Call / eMail Us Tel:2404292177, email: [email protected], [email protected] PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 27 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa Jamestown to Jamestown: It's been 400 years, we are going back to Ghana By Amos Fofung ver 400 years since the “year of return” said on a the first black social media post. Oslaves landed in Launched last year in Jamestown Virginia, USA, Washington, D.C., by this year has witnessed the Ghana’s President Nana greatest number of Africans Akufo-Addo, for Africans in in the diaspora that are going the diaspora to visit the West back home. African country as part of ‘Jamestown to Jamestown’, the commemoration 400th a ceremony that saw African year since the first African Americans retracing the slaves landed in Virginia, transatlantic slave route the initiative witnessed a travelled by their ancestors remarkable participation this kicked off on August 18 year. in Washington, D.C. with Days after, another participants travelling via American TV star, Danny bus to Jamestown, Virginia, Glover, a legend in for a prayer vigil and candle- Hollywood landed in Ghana. lighting ceremony. The door of no return at the Cape Coast Castle. photo Wikimedia Commons. Speaking at the airport, the The ceremony marked their heritage and connect achieve in ways which bring the tour to expose himself and movie director, producer and the African “Maafa,” a with their tradition. power to our communities learn more about Ghanaian acclaimed humanitarian said term that describes the “Jamestown to Jamestown in America, Africa and history and culture. it is important for the “African suffering embedded in represents one of the throughout our Diaspora.” “It›s so wonderful to see diaspora to reconnect with the past four centuries most powerful moments Travelling among the dozen our brothers and sisters from Africa”. related to enslavement. The in the history of the Black participants to on the journey the African diaspora making “It was important for me participants would then Experience,” says NAACP was U.S. famous comedian the journey to the continent. to be part of this trip because assemble at Jamestown, President and CEO Derrick and host of The Steve Harvey He is in town with his family I think it is important for all Accra-Ghana for an ancestral Johnson. “We are now able Show, alongside his family, and taking in the sights and African Americans to build a Healing ceremony which to actualize the healing and who visited some tourist sites sounds of Ghana. He even got strong relationship with the enabled them to for the first collective unity so many including castles where slaves a brand-new outfit made by a wider African diaspora and time in their lives, learn about generations have worked to were kept as he embarked on local designer,” organizers of the continent of Africa itself,”

Steve Harvey at Elmina castle. Ghana has received high profile figures in recent times 28 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs

he said in a tweet about his month in Ghana. Ghanaian president, Akufo- to win independence from X, who both traveled to visit. Another Hollywood actor Addo said Ghana would colonial rule, has a history of Ghana to meet him. Writer Before them, in December who came to Ghana was open its «arms even wider to pursuing ties with Africans Maya Angelou spent time last year, actor Boris Kodjoe Samuel L. Jackson who welcome home our brothers overseas. It dates back to in the country after its and some of his Hollywood had earlier traced his roots and sisters in what will the country›s first President independence and civil rights friends and family including; to Gabon. His adventures become a birthright journey Kwame Nkrumah, whose leader W.E.B. Du Bois is Nicole Ari Parker, Diggy in the country included a home for the global African vision of pan-Africanism buried in Accra. Simmons, Micheal Jai White, documentary shoot and visits family.» included alliances with These initiatives have had Anthony Anderson (of to local markets in Accra and This year-long initiative diaspora communities. some success. An estimated Blackish), Rosario Dawson, fish markets in Cape Coast. builds on a long tradition of Nkrumah enjoyed warm 3,000 African-Americans had Jidenna, Cynthia Bailey, Year of return looking outwards. relations with African- permanently settled in Ghana Bozoma Saint John spent Speaking at Washington›s Ghana, the first sub- American icons such as by 2014, CNN reported. a significant part of their National Press Club, Saharan African country Muhammad Ali and Malcolm

Washington Braces Up for Mega Forum on Making African Trade Easy -Q& A with Angelle Kwemo on Mate 2019 By Ajong Mbapndah L

rade, the African the US, MUST create the Continental Free enabling environment for TTrade Area, Prosper the African private sector to Africa initiative, business prosper. This also applies on networks and more will be in US foreign policies. I believe focus during the upcoming this is what Prosper Africa Making African Trade Easy intends to do. Support the Forum organized by Believe private sector to double US in Africa Foundation. Africa two ways trade. Considering that this is the 2- International 5th anniversary of Believe Development Finance in Africa, we decided to do Corporation (DFC), will open something different, says soon. Created by the Better Founder and CEO Angelle Utilization of Investments Kwemo in a preview of the Leading to Development forum with Pan African Angelle Kwemo Founder and CEO Of Believe in Africa (BUILT Act) with 60 billion Visions. You are Founder and The organization is private sector at the center USD appropriated (double of “We are strongly mobilizing Chair of Believe in hosting the Making of the continent’s economic OPIC), it is one of the biggest the African diaspora, African, Africa, could you start Africa Trade Easy Fair growth as well as at the center changes in U.S. development and American firms to explore by introducing the in Washington, DC, can of US Africa cooperation. We policy in recent years. partnership opportunities,” organization for us and you shed light on this? strongly believe that Africa The DFC will combine the says Angelle Kwemo. Also what it does? This year is our fifth-year should gradually get out of the Overseas Private Investment expected at the event are Believe in Africa is a non anniversary. We decided “Aid dependency”. This can Corporation (OPIC) and the several African leaders and profit organization created to do something special only happen if Africa attains U.S. Agency for International close to 200 participants by African diaspora leaders to in Washington DC where its economic independence. Development’s Development from Africa. promote African solutions to the organization was born. That independence will Credit Authority, add With experience working in African problems, advocate Three important policies begin when the African new development finance diverse legislative and policy for increasing the role of the changes happen this year that private sector will be strong capabilities, including circles in the US, and Africa, African private sector into coincided with our mission and prosperous. Also, with equity authority, and have Angelle Kwemo believes that the continent’s economic and will be at the center Africa’s population growth a higher lending limit than MATE 2019 which runs from transformation, promoting of MATE. Private sector, exceeding the billion, Job its predecessor. It is aimed October 3-4 will provide a intra African trade, and last Finance and intra African creation is an emergency. at advancing private-sector- unique platform for delegates but not the least promoting trade. Those jobs will not come from led development and will to understand and explore investment in women, 1- Prosper Africa the public sector, nor from prioritize low-income and the myriad of business and youth. What we do is initiative announced by the the humanitarian programs. low-middle income countries, opportunities in the light of organize meetings, seminars, current administration is Therefore, it is imperative where the DFC’s services will recent developments in both and create platforms to perfectly in line with our that the governments, have the greatest impact. Africa and the USA. facilitate partnerships. vision to put the African Africans, and partners like 3- This July the PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 29 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

African Continental Free from companies and hospice, African leaders from of H.E. Aissata Issoufou First Lady of Burkina Faso, Trade Area (AfCFTA) businesses, and what will both the public and private Mahamadou. We will bring H.E. Aisha Buhari, and First became effective, creating represent a successful sectors to discuss and explore women leaders from Africa Lady of the Federal Republic the world’s largest single MATE forum for you? partnership opportunities. to Washington to showcase of Nigeria and H.E. Aissata market, including the world’s We are strongly mobilizing How will the program their products and explore Mahamadou, First lady of fastest growth economies. It the African diaspora, African of events look like, what the U.S. market. Niger. is historical and creating the and American firms to explore should participants May we know some of On the U.S.G side, we biggest opportunity of our partnership opportunities. expect? the dignitaries who have will have, Hon. Tibor Nagy, lifetime. By 2030, Africa will As you know, the African The MATE program confirmed participation Assistant Secretary on have a combined consumer diaspora is historically, will comprise plenary at the event? Africa, Hon. Ramsey Day, and business spending of culturally, and emotionally sessions, workout sessions, On the African side, we Senior Deputy Assistant $6.7 trillion in 2030. We connected with the continent. seminars and roundtables. will have two heads of States Administrator for Africa, should all play a role in Their proximity with the We will discus investment in attendance H.E. Roch USAID, Hon. Constance making the continental continent has been unutilized opportunities in various Kabore, President of Burkina Hamilton, AUSTR for market successful. until today. They are the most sectors like Technology and Faso, H.E. Felix Tsisekedi, Africa, Hon. Oren Wyche- It is for these three reasons effective US ambassadors to digital, AfCFTA, healthcare, President of the Democratic Shaw, Deputy Assistant that as the African diaspora the continent. They abide by agribusiness, textile and Republic of Congo, H.E. Administrator, USAID, in the U.S., we decided to the American standards and fashion, power. Moussa Faki Mahama, Matthew Rees, Prosper Africa use our networks to help in have good understanding Participants will get more Chair AU Commission, Coordinator, Tom Hardy, promoting these policies with of both continent’s ways of insights or learn about H.E. Albert M. Muchanga, Acting Director, U.S. Trade the concept of MATE. doing business. With MATE, resources available in the AU Commissioner of Trade and Development Agency, MATE is a collaborative we want to equip them U.S through “Prosper Africa”, and Industry, H.E. Lesego CD Glin, President & CEO, effort between us, USAID, and with tools that they need meet potential partners Makgothi, Minister of Foreign US Africa Development the Building & to trade and invest more and investors. We will hold Affairs and International Foundation, Hon Alicia International Trade Center to in Africa. In doing so, they exhibitions, and create Relations of Lesotho, Chantal Robinson-Morgan, Director promote Prosper Africa, and are not only contributing platforms for B2B and B2C. Yelu Mulop, SA President of for Africa, Millenium African Economic integration to the development of Also, we are planning a Congo on youth and violence Challenge Corporation, and in order to strengthen U.S. the continent, but they special session on Women in against Women, high level Worku Gachou, Director - Africa trade relations also promoting American Agriculture to coincide with representation of Afrexim for Africa, International and double two ways trade products and services, and our annual “AWAA” meeting. Bank, Niger, Lesotho, Guinea, Development Finance between both continents creating badly needed jobs in ,, enabling them to become Mauritious, Rwanda, Benin, Corporation. using the bridge created by both continents. self-reliant, productive and Cote d’Ivoire, and Senegal. In the private sectors, the African diaspora. That is why we are also competitive. AWAA network We will host Africa’s we have more than 200 Any projections on the bringing together U.S. was launched last year in biggest women advocate like companies including large level of participation agencies under Prosper Africa Morocco under the hospice H.E. Adjoavi Sika Kaboré, ones 30 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs like OCP, MTN, Standard most difficult part. Charted Bank and many more Lastly America needs to for more than 20 countries. innovate in their foreign How much participation policy approach and use do you expect to come the cultural bridge that the from Africa? African diaspora represents. I We are expecting around will not emphasize it enough. 200 participants from Africa. Diaspora entrepreneurs are I must be honest to say that also pragmatic. If they don›t the most recent developments find support in the U.S. they in U.S. immigrations and will find it somewhere else. It visa policies have been would be a waste. counterproductive because As I said earlier, it is difficult to imagine immigration policies send doubling two ways trade wrong signal to our African when African partners are partners. How can you do unable to visit the U.S. It is business with someone who is also part of our duties to raise not welcome in your country? awareness about obstacles There will be a special session hosted by the African Women in Agriculture After MATE, what next and Arts AWAA, a platform dedicated to empowering women in agriculture, to trade. America needs to for Believe in Africa, especially in rural areas. make sure its policies and any other big projects or all agencies policies are not changed in the sphere of become less dependent on and the new Africans are ventures in the horizon? self destructive, and pushing development and trade? aid. If you run a poll in Africa ready for business and they We will continue to build Africa closer to China, Russia I want to remain objective on this subject, the majority are open to explore different MATE and AWAA. I will give and other competitors. and nonpartisan as African of Africans will agree. The avenues. I think American you more details in October What is your take on the policies have always been in question now is how? I think firms should come to the 4, 2019. Big announcement overall strategy of the the past. On the trade front, I it will start with a big mind realization that they are in a are coming. Trump administration think the administration has shift that American will have competitive field and learn to towards Africa, what has good intentions: help Africa to make. Africa has changed, adjust accordingly. This is the Free roaming benefits operators, users as One Africa Network reaches 11 countries By Jean d’Amour Mugabo fricans have for so being among major projects on the way to African Single long suffered heavy put forward to pursue the Digital Market. Below are the Acosts on mobile Smart Africa Alliance’s interview excerpts: phone communication goal of transforming Africa especially after crossing the into a knowledge-based PAV: Smart Africa home country’s borders. economy through affordable Alliance has been in There, it means, one faces access to broadband and place for about six choking costs as they pay usage of Information years now; which major higher on making calls and and Communications achievements have you incurs some charges on Technologies (ICT). registered so far? receiving calls too. About six years since Seyni: The vision of the Some African Heads of then, four countries in East Alliance is to transform State experienced the gravity Africa’s Northern Corridor Africa into a single digital of the problem and discussed and seven in West Africa have market. One of the first and it at the Transform Africa come together to create two big projects that are here at Summit held in Kigali, separate free roaming zones Seyni Malan Fati, Head of Projects at Smart Africa Smart Africa is to achieve One Alliance. Photo courtesy. Rwanda, in October 2013, but the target is to get in one Africa Network. The objective during which the Smart network all the 26 Smart The Senegalese Telecom In an interview with Pan of One Africa Network is to Africa Manifesto was adopted Africa member countries and Engineer says free roaming is African Visions (PAV), Mr. maintain the African network by seven African Heads others that will join in the benefiting mobile operators Seyni explained the plans traffic in Africa and to have of State –Rwanda, Kenya, future, according to Seyni with 58% revenue increase to expand the Alliance’s one network so that all the Uganda, South Sudan, , Malan Fati, Head of Projects as users stay longer on the membership, implementing countries will be able to Gabon, and Burkina Faso at Smart Africa Alliance that network while enjoying the big projects, and Africa’s exchange voice traffic and – with One Africa Network is headquartered in Kigali. costs reduced by 45%. potentials and challenges SMS traffic without going PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 31 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

outside the continent. In the entire Smart Africa Alliance. Rwanda; Data Centre is for five countries at least. digital transformation? same project it was also to Djibouti; Cyber Security is Seyni: We didn’t do a lower the costs and tariffs for PAV: Smart Africa has for Cote d’Ivoire; Senegal PAV: What can Smart study but, in my view, we the roaming. For example if I 26 member countries out has Broadband and Green Africa Secretariat have the capacity; we have am leaving Rwanda heading of 54 on the continent. Economy; our new member recommend African the knowledge, we have to Senegal, we want to have What is your projection Zimbabwe has e-Agriculture; governments and everything. The African the lowest prices for me to on expanding the Ghana has e-payment, private sector for better Continental Free Trade call back in Rwanda when I Alliance? etc. Each country has a advancement towards Area (AfCFTA) ratified last am in Senegal. So, we started Seyni: Our objective is to particular project to deal digital transformation? year presents opportunities. by doing two small projects; achieve as many and good with. The Alliance is helping Seyni: The first thing is for The only thing is to remain the first one is here in the projects as we can to attract each country to build their countries to work together; focused, work together and East African part, it is called other countries to join the project’s blueprint and not to go to Europe or do things for Africans. We the North Corridor Free Alliance. Our goal for next help in looking for funds to America to see what they are need to find solutions for Roaming. And today we have year, we want to have Nigeria implement it. This year, we doing. They can stick here in African problems. We are low cost and low tariff on because it is a big country (the want to start implementing Africa and work together with able to achieve things and roaming between Rwanda, largest economy in Africa) Smart Cities project. We are other countries to see what help Africa to rise by working Kenya, South Sudan and with a large population, and hiring a consultancy firm they have and what they don’t together and by doing things Uganda. The retail tariff is Ethiopia, and some countries to build, for five countries, have. If they have something, ourselves. Everybody is kept at 10 cents/min. We have in the North like Morocco and national strategy for Smart you can take the positive coming to Africa because seen the revenues increase by Algeria. We don’t want to do Cities drawing on the Smart things, gather all the tools, they know everything is 58% for the operators and the a lot of projects; we want to Cities Blueprint that Rwanda all the papers, all the laws, here; operators are coming costs reduced by 45% for the do big projects to achieve big launched in 2017. We also all the frameworks and you in Africa; China is coming in users. things. want to implement Smart implement in your country. Africa, India wants to partner In 2017, we implemented It will depend on what Village in Niger with the That’s why since June, we with Africa... everyone knows the same thing in the West Smart Africa achieves. If you support of our partner, are implementing a Smart that Africa has potentials, Africa and there we have want other countries to come Inmarsat. Africa platform, the database capacities, everything we seven countries: Senegal, on board, you have to achieve We also want to have data in which we put, for each have it here but we have to Mali, Guinea, Cote d’Ivoire, big things and they will see centres in Africa because in country, all the documents believe in ourselves. Burkina Faso, Benin and the benefits to be in Smart Africa we only have 5% of that they have. Togo. Over there, we call it Africa. We are also working the data centre of the world. If, for example, one of our PAV: What do you find roam like local. When you with the African Union and So, we want to implement members wants to know as major challenges travel from Senegal to Mali, regional organisations. If, data centre because we don’t about a law in Senegal, they impeding African for example, you will keep within our member states, we want our data to be stocked will have to go in the database digital transformation your SIM-card, no need to achieve big projects like One somewhere else in the world. and see that Senegal enacted and what actions are buy new SIM-card, and you Africa Network, Digital ID, We want to do a study to a law in 2018, and they will required to overcome receive calls without paying Smart Cities, other countries see where we can establish take the law and see if they those challenges? anything extra. You call at will wish to come on board data centres, how many data can take it or some parts of it Seyni: The major the same tariffs as the local and follow the trend. We centres we need, maybe one and implement it in Rwanda. challenges we have include subscribers. And now our won’t wait for all African in the North, another in the So, the first thing is to work lack of broadband access; goal is to extend it to all countries to come on board; South, one in the central, one together and the role of financial constraints because countries within the Smart the thing is to do big things in the East, another in the Smart Africa is to harmonise most people in Africa cannot Africa space. and thereafter others will join West and the goal is to link all everything and to spot the big afford things like internet, There is also Intra-African us. We have now almost half those data centres. projects we can lead, because devices... so we have to make Cross Border Connectivity. of the continent’s countries, Digital ID is also one of we cannot lead in everything; things which are affordable This one belongs to our and the number keeps the big projects we want to so, we have big projects. to most of the population in platinum member, Tata increasing with Zimbabwe implement in the coming Another thing, if we want Africa. There is also skills gap. Communications, which is being the 26th and latest years. We are also working to transform Africa, is to have We have to develop skills, working with Guinea. They member. on broadband connectivity; broadband access, because to build schools and to have want to link all the countries it’s central to African now, internet is the most training, alphabetisation using satellite or fibre optic. PAV: What is the current digitisation. We are also important thing in Africa. and everything. There is The project has already state of Africa’s digital working for startup growth. The main project is to have a also Gender divide. We started and they want to transformation? We want to have startup broadband strategy for Africa, have to fight for women connect Guinea, Sierra Leone Seyni: When we created strategy and laws to spur the in rural areas and cities. and youth inclusion in our and Mali before this year Smart Africa Alliance, we set growth of start-ups in Africa. activities because in the ends. In the coming years, projects that the Alliance is The StartUp Act has been PAV: What are the next generation, they will they will connect other Guinea jointly managing and each launched in Tunisia which is available opportunities implement. neighbouring countries and country has a flagship. For leading in this flagship and that African countries keep expanding to cover the example, Smart Cities is for we want to have the same for can leverage to fast-track 32 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs

PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 33 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa Susan Dexter: From Sierra Leone To Running The Victorian Candle Bed and Breakfast, the number one getaway in Hollywood Maryland By Ajong Mbapndah L & Amos Fofung

Planning a getaway from the hustle and bustle that characterize everyday life especially in the DMV are? The Victorian Candle Bed and Breakfast located in Hollywood, Md offers you a unique taste of luxury at a very affordable price. For those unfamiliar with the term, a bed and breakfast is a small lodging establishment that offers overnight accommodation and breakfast. Bed and breakfasts are often private owned facilities and typically have between four and eleven rooms, with six being the average. In addition, a B&B usually has the hosts living in the house offering exceptional services and giving their guest the home feeling lacking in most hotels. This beautiful Bed and Breakfast is nestled on 12 wooded acres in Hollywood, MD, Photo Ben Bangoura, AlloAfrica News. With an exquisite 8 suits ready to accommodate you founder and Chief Executive owned bed and breakfast in has put in enormous time and 8 suits and I mind you, and your peers, Victorian Officer, Susan Dexter, prides the DMV. Originally from resources the rooms come with a full Candle B&B according to its itself as one of the few African- Sierra Leone, Susan Dexter “This is a good place to breakfast menu, we also have come because of the food. We a room called Butler room can cook anything someone that we host private events wants us to cook be it African be them birthdays, small and American cousin. If you weddings, conferences and have events here, we work meetings among others.” with you financially, and With a setting capacity of I do not think most of the over 75 guests, the Butler other bed and breakfast do room as it is known, resonates same. Most of them, when calmly with the serene they do their breakfast, it is environment perfect for a continental but mine is hot quiet ceremony or private food that meets your everyday getaway. need, all upon your request Situated in an and taste,” she said in a chat environmentally friendly with Pan African Visions. location called Surally Asked if accommodations plantation with close-by Founder and CEO Susan Dexter says the Victorian Candle Bed and Breakfast can be provided for private rivers that offer guest the is at ease offering American and African cuisines . Photo Ben Bangoura, ceremonies, the CEO opportunity to purchase fresh AlloAfrica News. responded that “it is a bed fish, the CEO of Victorian and breakfast were we have Candle B&B makes very 34 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs good use of the natural for visitors or patrons to get environment which provides easy access to other facilities fresh vegetables and African for hiking, horseback riding, spices for the cuisine. fishing, kayaking, picnicking “There are a lot of farms and cycling. that you can pick vegetables With little over 16 years of or if you like potatoes, fresh experience in the hospitality corn and others, provided industry, the founder says by the Armish people that thanks to her dedicated staff inhabit this locality. It is a and love for hospitality the good place for relaxation place is gaining momentum due to its quiet and beautiful with growing customers base environment,” added Susan who have been entreated with Dexter. the Victoria B&B experience. The strategic location of the Victorian Candle B&B The Victorian Candle Bed Breakfast has well furnished and neat rooms, also comes with opportunities Photo Ben Bangoura, AlloAfrica News. Zimbabwe to Invest in Corporate Social Responsibility in Mining Sector to Consummate Global Standards. By Nevson Mpofu here is a total of 14 President of the Zimbabwe million small scale Miners Federation contacted Tminers in 80 countries through a call in response in the World. The biggest to a presentation read on population is in Africa. The her behalf in Harare at an increasing number is caused Institute for Sustainability by several factors among Africa [INSAF] Annual them economic hardships. Mining Business Symposium Zimbabwe is among those said the whole World increasing small-scale miners had increasing poverty of due to economic hardships. Artisanal small scale miners Vulnerability, political . This, she added was a result in-stability and the move of economic difficulties and towards Indigenisation, Climate Change. In the end, Command Mining and finally she notes, leads to over- the big impacting factor of increase of Vulnerability, climate change come in as poverty stricken and well. marginalised Artisanal Mine Henrietta Rushwaya Workers. Henrietta Rushwaya President of the Zimbabwe Miners Federation. President of the Zimbabwe ‘’The main challenges of our continue to face challenges a bid to get assistance from the big figure is of small scale Miners Federation said the concern are with the country because there are also several the Mining Bank. They eager miners almost 30% to 40%. increase in small scale miners that has experienced a changes around the circle to start business ventures An Artisanal small scale is a cause for concern at a number of challenges socially, of poverty. Women have .Some of them are getting in miner from Mt Darwin time the country has severe politically and economically. increased in big number the mining sector for the sake , Ellen Mukoto said the economic challenges. She also We as a country, we remain owing special attention to of fending for their poverty increase caused by hardships cited that above all artificially targeted by hardships which economic empowerment. stricken families. The main continues to increase thereby economic hardships continue we need to over-come. However, pathetic, it is sad reason they run away from affecting women mostly who to increase, there- by affecting Climate Change has played to note that these lack mining is that they have no formal are affected seriously by millions of these. Naturally, an increased impacting role finance, empowerment, employment. Therefore, the worst poisonous chemicals she notes Climate Change is a in the whole story.’’ equipment and basic mining number has increased in the like mercury which affects a challenge. ‘’There are thousands resources. In-Formal sector. This is 90% big number of women . Henrietta Rushwaya of small scale miners who ‘’A number of them are in in the country. Among them ‘’A bigger number in the PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 35 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

Mt-Darwin area is under and development. Benefits threat as mercury is used at are low if this happens. ‘’.he the expense of these women. said. Their lives are on danger both as well with the lives of Extractive Industry their un-born babies who get Transparency Initiative affected during pregnancy. A –[EITI] number of women have been ZELA, Zimbabwe affected and some died of Environmental Law un-known reasons. There is Association Official Joyce no doubt a number of their Nyamukunda spoke on babies are as well affected ‘’. the Extractive Industry In a presentation on Transparency Initiative. Overview of the Extractive The system is a move to Industry in Zimbabwe, an stamp out corruption in the official from the Ministry mining sector. It is a way of of Mines Esther Marimba dangers miners face. He gave conditions , like sloshing in ‘’The first thing is promoting Accountability alluded to the statement that examples of several mines muddy , dirty water , germ inclusion of marginalised so that resources can be had been erroneously taken which have collapsed at the infested and polluted water as miners through trainings, accounted for credibly. in line with the situation on expense of human lives in they do their activities in stiff capacity building and skills ‘’One of the main challenge ground. An Artisanal Miner Kadoma , Mt Darwin and , and harsh conditions . inculcation. They later is that these small scale Arnold Chireya had expressed Chinhoyi . A number of them ‘’The first and fore-most become developed, adapted miners are used by Large that small scale miners were have died in mine shafts thing they need to do is as well. The revision of the Scale Miners who finance being blocked by the Ministry during their work. capacity building so that they legal frame is important to them. They do this so that to do the mining work. can be integrated into the make these become oriented they can later buy Gold from ‘’The Ministry has not Corporate Social whole system of the mining and get integrated into the these small Scale Miners restricted small scale Responsibility. Activities. These capacity system. This at last fosters at the end. There is also Artisanal miners from A lot of challenges impact building and trainings, of integration. massive corruption in the doing their work because small scale miners. Among course needs funding. That is manner the gold is bought we see them as miners. these, we have extensive the reason why most countries Incentivising Miners. and sold. Extractive Industry The challenge they face is shortage of protective in the World fail to work and Geological data Supply. Transparency Initiative finance, Corporate Social clothing, shoes, helmets, develop these miners who There is need for curbs corruption, promotes Responsibility, Technical overalls and some other kind later are exposed to absolute, prioritising Small Scale transparency as well and Support, basic resources, of clothing worth protective relative poverty and some Mining to promote Economic makes mining companies training and tools to use in during their work escapades. forms of poverty. Lastly, Development, make the accountable. the Industry. There are other The most important of all is dialogue is important so that country achieve Growth ‘’As ZELA it is our mandate factors of course, but we have lack of access to three basic they can communicate, share Rates by above 5% and reduce to make all companies , taken them aboard for a long needs, food, shelter and ideas and link Governments poverty and vulnerability. communities , Civil Society time. mining clothing. In the end in the event of any challenges Miners according to a and Government access ‘’Financially , the main their Health deteriorates faced’’. survey by several mining information related to EITI challenge is that the total as they become affected by Formalising the organisations lack Geological so that corruption can be amount needed for being Cardio-Vascular Diseases. Artisanal Small Scale data, adds an expert Mungoni ended . This makes Mining a registered , licenced and ‘’There are a number of Miners. , leads to trial and error as companies Governance easier sustainably grown Small challenges related to lack of The most important work they get into their activities . and manageable. ‘’ said Joyce Scale Miner is a total of protective clothing during is how the sector can be ‘’Lack of Geological Data Nyamukunda . Zimbabwe $5 million dollars the time mine workers do formalised. A mining expert, plunges miners into trial and According to the . Small Scale Miners can- their work under ground Mr Kenneth Mungoni said error. At last miners fall into Constitution there is need not afford the amount. . Mining needs proper the first and fore-most work is a number of challenges inside to curb corruption so as to Secondly, the Reserve Bank protective clothes, tools and the inclusion of marginalised the pits as they do their work promote accountability in of Zimbabwe does not lend basic resources which can miners around the country. at try and error mechanism. terms of natural resources so them money because they do make them be protected He notes that these needs This leads to unexpected that communities can benefit not pay back. These miners from several dangers while to be included in national iuaccidents .All the above as well. Section 62 of the are nomadic. They move from underground. dialogues, trainings, capacity if not exercised leads to Constitution calls for access place to place. ‘’Because of debt and building and orientation and low yields, environmental to Information. Section 9 University of Zimbabwe poverty , artisanal small scale total integration in-order for degradation and loss of calls for proper issuance Lecturer Mr Eric Mlambo miners end up involved in them to develop, adapt and Investments. Then it means of Mining licences. This, if gave a risky analysis of gold panning which exposes adopt skills needed for them countries lag behind in terms followed could stick to Global the mining sector citing them to hazardous Health to be like large scale miners. of economic profits for growth standards. 36 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs

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PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 37 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa African Continental Free Trade Area will be beneficial for Cameroon-Experts Say By Boris Esono Nwenfor he African Continental Free TTrade Area (ACFTA) was officially launched on July 7, 2019 during the 12th extraordinary summit of the African Union held from July 4 to 8, 2019 in Niamey, Niger. The ratified ACFTA on July 19, 2019 after it was signed on March 21, 2018 in Kigali, Rwanda, together with other 43 countries. Experts in various domains met in Yaounde August 29, 2091, during the second edition of the Nkafu policy debate with theme “Will Cameroon benefit from the Africa Continental Free Trade Area?”According to Experts discussing if Cameroon benefits from ACFTA. various experts, Cameroon ratifying this agreement increase productivity”. “Once compared to approximately problems and we still go and in Cameroon is very young will strengthen economic you increase productivity 15 per cent currently. add other problems every and fragile. In a 2016 General growth in the country while with good institutions, and Dr. Louis Marie Kakdeu, day. Today, we have to open Enterprise Census report, others are not so sure, saying a good structure that will Economist, Policy Fellow where we are competitive and 77.5% of the companies Cameroon should not open permit the transfer of goods. in Economic Affairs, Nkafu if we are not competitive we listed were at most 6 years up but should instead protect If some countries are not Policy Institute said there do not open up”, He added. old. Some major challenges its economy. ready and their productivity are two reasons why to In an increasingly facing entrepreneurs to fully To Dr. Fabian Sundjo, is low, it becomes difficult to him Cameroon will not globalized world, only the establish and grow their the ACFTA is very good and move forward and sign the benefit from the agreement. most competitive countries enterprises in Cameroon as Cameroon will indeed benefit ACFTA.” He stated “the necessity (that is, countries with strong outlined by the Nkafu Policy in the long run. He said, According to experts, the to respect the rules and economic fundamental and Institute comprise taxation, “Trade is the best in terms of ACFTA will bring together principles of free trade. The strategic frameworks or with the cost and access to credit, increasing growth which will 1.3 billion people, create African zone should respect diversified sources of growth) and the formalities. in turn increase the growth a $3.4 trillion economic i9t, if not it is no longer the are likely to gain the largest The second edition of of the country” while adding block and usher in a new free trade but something like shares in trade. the Nkafu debate was that the “ACFTA will increase era of development on the mercantilism. The second is The Cameroon economy, organized by the Nkafu Policy competiveness. It makes the continent. More so, it will the necessity to put in place in considered as the driving Institute-a think tank under country to be completive enable African economies Cameroon economic reforms force of the Economic and the Denis and Lenora Foretia which brings benefit to the to strengthen South-South before engaging a country Monetary Community of Foundation, which works country”. cooperation, conquer new into competition. One cannot Central Africa (CEMAC), to catalyze the economic He added that, “The free markets and diversify sources go to fight when one is not is presently facing major transformation of African trade was important but of supply. powerful or competitive.” structural change. In a 2018 countries by focusing on social there are some issues that According to the “We are afraid that in the report by the Nkafu Policy entrepreneurship, science had to be handled, some United Nations Economic wnext two years or so, we will Institute, the poverty level is and technology, health structures put in place Commission for Africa, have companies created in alarming as less than 17.65 and the implementation before going forth to sign UNECA, intra-African trade Cameroon dying as a result per cent of Cameroonian of development policies the treaty. The issue that was could increase by more than of the agreement. Now it is adults earn more than that will create economic highlighted could be based 50 per cent and even double 80 per cent which is very 200,000 FCFA. opportunities for all. on the competitiveness of the within 10 years after the dangerous. We have to stop The Small and Medium economy and the necessity to entry into force of the ACFTA it and we cannot be having Size Enterprises landscape 38 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Zimbabwe's plant breeders aim to scale up production of African traditional vegetables market By Wallace Mawire Plant breeders in Zimbabwe affect 23% of the sub-Saharan researchers, the role of the working with the Zimbabwe African population. It is plant breeders in the value Plant Breeders Association reported that at least over 30% chain include germplasm (ZPBA) are promoting the of adults and approximately collection and conservation, scaling up and production of 10 million children in Africa breeding and selection for African traditional vegetables are overweight. Also anemia improved traits including in-order to help combat the affects approximately 38% of yield and yield components challenges of micronutrient reproductive African women. such as taste, quality and deficiencies affecting at least About 54% of children deaths tenderness, identification a third of the developing in developing countries are and characterisation of edible world’s population. reported to be associated with samples based on promotion Various scientists and malnutrition. and value addition of African agricultural researchers According to the FAO, traditional vegetables based convened at the Zimbabwe urbanisation and highly through product development Plant Breeders Association processed foods are reported and agro-processing. anniversary held just a to be the major drivers. “Lets add diverse African Okra is reported also to On the market for African few kilometres outside the According to the leafy vegetables in our dishes help on improving immunity traditional vegetables, the capital, Harare on 9 July, Zimbabwean researchers, together with this brassica and strengthening of bones, is researchers say that the 2019 to present research focus should be put on African pull for balanced nutrition,” freely digested and improves world’s population needs findings on developments in traditional vegetables since the researchers say. vision and skin health. It also food and a balanced nutrition. plant breeding initiatives. they provide food security, Priority African vegetables helps in combating diabetes They say there is appetite for In an interesting nutritional security, they which the researchers have and obesity, heart disease and African traditional vegetables research presentation have medicinal properties recommended include okra, cancers. and the markets need to be titled: Unpacking the and they adapt locally. cat’s whiskers/spiderplant, Another example given is developed. value of African traditional “Many traditional leaf African eggplant, pig weed, the African egg-plant (fruit The local researcher plant vegetables, researchers Dr vegetables tend to escape cowpea leaves and immature and leaf) which is reported breeders in Zimbabwe are Learn more Mwadzingeni, biotic and abiotic stress green pods, pumpkin leaves, to contain vitamin C,K and emphasising the need for Dr Abe Shegro Gerrano and are a source for income blacknight shade, black-jack, B6,fibre,potassium and also research collaborations. and Dr Willem Jansen Van especially for resource poor sweet potato leaves, African acts as an antioxidant. It is According to the researchers, Rensburg are more important people,” the Researchers cucumbers, purslane and also reported to be becoming it is necessary to partner than exotic vegetables in note. wild spinach/fat hen. a major cash crop in some to share research facilities most rural parts of Africa as The researchers are The researchers say that countries. and expertise with key nutrition and food security saying that exotic crops traditional vegetables like The cowpea is reported players in African traditional crops. They also add that rural like cabbage, broccoli, okra are important due to to contain various mineral vegetables research such and older people in Africa cauliflower, kale, Brussels their composition of dietary elements, proteins, vitamin as the World Vegetable have greater appreciation of sprouts, collard, turnip, rape, fibre, potassium, vitamin B,C A,B,C and K, beta carotene Center (WorldVeg),the the nutritional and health mustard are now common in and K, folic acid, calcium and and calories. African Vegetable Breeding benefits of the traditional modern dishes. act as anti-oxidants. According to the Consortitum (AVBC),the vegetable species. Agricultural Research Council They also add that African Vegetable and Ornamental traditional vegetables are Plants (ARC-VOPI),private mostly herbaceous plants breeding seed companies, whose fresh or dried portions national agricultural research can be used as food. They systems and higher learning are described as native or institutions. introduced into Africa or According to the evolved over a long period of Zimbabwe researchers, the time. Africa Vegetable Breeding According to the Food Consortium is a joint and Agriculture Organisation venture of WorldVeg and (FAO) on the nutritional AFSTA. They are reported security status in Africa, to have held their inaugural malnutrition is reported to workshop in March 2019. PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 39 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

They provide knowledge early access to WorldVeg Vegetable and Ornamental vegetable research research up of breeding, production and expertise in vegetable breeding lines, screening Plants Institute which is the collaboration opportunities, and processing of African breeding for example protocols and information, leading vegetable research technical support services to traditional vegetables, focusing on the African access to ten free seed hub in . the horticulture value chain development of the market eggplant, amaranth, brassica, acquisitions per year from The consortium and and training courses on including partnerships carrot, mungbean, peppers World-Veg and preferential institute handle potatoes, vegetable production. with key players in African and tomato, just to mention World-Veg training access sweet potatoes, medicinal As a way forward, local traditional vegetable research a few. and 20% discount tuition. plants and mostly African researchers and breeders in and development. Benefits consortium According to the researchers, traditional species. Zimbabwe are calling for member companies include there is also the ARC- They also offer the promotion and scaling Roland Achenjang's soul-searching book; "Who and Why You Are" hits the stands By Amos Fofung

s humans struggle provided me the last piece to comprehend the to a puzzle that revealed Aevolution of our time a new level of Truth and on earth and how to maximize understanding of the our experiences with a better (Earth life) experience; the understanding of who they information is empowering are, Roland Achenjang has and blissful.” in his latest book titled; Who Urging all to grab paperback and Why You Are provided copies of the book on Amazon answers to some of these and Amazon Prime for just questions. $22 the enthusiastic author In his first book, Roland whose book has already hit Achenjang summarizes what an e-reading platform said he says is who we truly are and autographed paperback why we are here each having copies could be gotten via his an Earth life experience. website; rolandachenjang. Spurred to write the com. book due to his search Roland Achenjang, is and understandings of an alumnus of Belmont the “Universal Truths, the University where he obtained author says; “I refer to the an MBA in Healthcare information as Universal Management. Motivated Truths, because they equally during his school days, apply to everyone throughout Roland began meditating to the planet, including you! I cope with the stress of being wrote the book because of how both a business school student liberating and empowering The Self exploring book now available worldwide .photo Facebook Roland and the sole overnight clinical Achenjang. the information (Universal pharmacist at a large hospital Truths) I remembered aware of this information, my head in three consecutive and why he’s now, via his in Nashville. As a result, his is. It changed my entire like I did. And besides, my waves. With each movement, book, campaigning for others life transformed from a fear- perspective on everything.” wife was getting annoyed ‘I remembered’ the Universal to follow suit, he retorted; based experience to one filled In an exclusive chat with with me talking about it to Truths I write about in my “the experience itself was with creative expressions. Pan African Visions, the her alone.” book. That day and the humbling and I consider it a In “Who and Why You Are: visionary who attributes his “I woke up that lovely proceeding seven days were tremendous blessing. As far All You Need to Remember,” spiritual awakening to a four- Tuesday morning and blissful for me, and they as what changed, honestly, Achenjang discusses his year meditation experience immediately had a strong marked the beginning of the my beliefs and understanding passion for helping others said he “firmly believes there urge to meditate. During the rest of my life. Nothing about about everything, who we are, remember, experience and are many souls currently session, I adopted a yoga me has been the same since,” and the Earth life experience express what he says is the experiencing life on Earth posture that caused a rush he said. changed; particularly my ultimate benefit to effective who would benefit from of energy to move from the Quizzed on how spiritual attitude towards fear. It is meditating – bliss. reading this book and being base of my spine to the top of awakening changed his life as thought the experience “By recognizing and 40 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs understanding these liberating and empowering proceeding seven days were universal truths, you can the information (Universal blissful for me, and they break free from the endless, Truths) I remembered is. It marked the beginning of the self-imposed, creative changed my entire perspective rest of my life. Nothing about limitations impeding you on EVERYTHING! me has been the same since. from living a purposeful I firmly believe there life, expressing joy and are many souls currently How was this spiritual experiencing bliss while here experiencing life on Earth awakening like, what on Earth, he said. who would benefit from changed for you after Born and raised in reading this book and being you after that? Cameroon before relocating aware of this information, The experience itself was to the United States in 2000, like I did. And besides, my humbling and I consider it a Achenjang has always been wife was getting annoyed tremendous blessing. As far fascinated with finding, or with me talking about it to as what changed, honestly, remembering, meanings and her alone. my beliefs and understanding purposes to life on Earth. From information about about everything, who we are, the author, we gathered and the Earth life experience At the Sunrise Festival of the Arts 2019 with Pre Your first book Who and that after over four changed; particularly my Launch autographed copies of Who Why You. Why You Are: All you years of meditating attitude towards fear. It is feeling sick, stressed, tired to the public on the need to remember just daily as a means to as thought the experience or what have you. It’s a free merits of grabbing a hit the stands; can you cope with work and provided me the last piece and healing practice that copy of this book, from give us a synopsis? school stress, you had a to a puzzle that revealed reconnects you directly with the horses own mouth, Gladly. The book spiritual awakening on a new level of Truth and the ‘Higher-Being’ you believe from the author, what summarizes what I remember August 21st, 2018, can understanding of the in! No middleman needed are some of the reasons about who we truly are and you walk us through this (Earth life) experience; the and the benefits are infinite! people should rush for why we are here each having experience? information is empowering What could be better? their copies? an Earth life experience. I With joy . I woke up that and blissful. I commend anyone curious As humans, we are always refer to the information as lovely Tuesday morning and about meditating and invite in search for empowerment, Universal Truths, because immediately had a strong In what way did the them to begin by visiting autonomy, and bliss. From they equally apply to urge to meditate. During the spiritual awakening www.rolandachenjang.com this state of being, we become everyone throughout the session, I adopted a yoga impact your religious to get a copy of 6 Proven free to express our infinitely planet, including you! posture that caused a rush beliefs? Paths to Effective Meditating. creative selves. Our heroes of energy to move from the Great question. The It’s a free guide that puts and idols know this. Truth is, What prompted you to base of my spine to the top of change in perspective the you on the right track to these abilities aren’t reserved come up with the book my head in three consecutive awakening experience offers personalizing the practice for just them. We each and what is the message waves. With each movement, affects EVERYTHING - this and making it enjoyable. are capable of being great, you seek to share? ‘I remembered’ the Universal includes religious beliefs, much more so than we can Great question. I wrote Truths I write about in my too. The experience changed What are some of the even imagine. This book is a the book because of how book. That day and the my beliefs and significantly challenges you faced in reminder of this Truth and improved my understanding writing the book? much more. of them as well. And the Great question . With Read it. Remember how process is still on-going. my new perspective, I view amazing you are. Regain challenges as our minds’ control of your life! Just how important illusionary creations is it for people to designed to teach us more How much is the book meditate, for you who about ourselves; they and where can people did it over a year, what (challenges) are great procure copies? recommendations do learning opportunities. So The paperback is $22. It you give for those who what did I learn in writing is available at Amazon and may be curious about it? the book? That I truly am Amazon Prime. I am biased of course, infinitely creative, and I Autographed paperback but I believe it’s extremely have everything available to copies will be available important that everyone me to create anything I am through rolandachenjang. meditates (effectively). passionate about while here com for additional costs soon Meditating (effectively) is on Earth. This is true for you The electronic version is my most trusted and go-to- too! available through any of your activity for when I feel out of favorite e-reading platforms. The book is a reminder of the infinite possibilities of balance, which could mean Could you make a pitch greatness says Roland Achenjang. PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 41 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

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42 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Insight Into The Edewor Foundation By Ajong Mbapndah L

ollison Edewor has decades. My goal was to bring compel others to relate about embarked on a lofty all the ethnic groups together investing at home. Rmission to transform but my connection to all is Looking broadly at lives in his local community limited. So, I started with Nigeria, we see to in Nigeria. The Founder where I grew up, SAPELE see either conflicts or of the Edewor Foundation kingdom. The unity will potential for conflict shares insight his work warrant them to sign a peace everywhere, between ,projects, and way forward in and security agreement. different ethnic an interview with PAV. This agreement is tendered communities, between Prof Rollison Edewor to prospective investors for political parties, between is Founder of the assurance. Christians and Muslims, Edewor Foundation, At one of its recent Fulani etc, what is your can you introduce the meetings, representatives take on the situation in Foundation and its of over 30 communities of the country ? mission? Okpe Kingdom indicated To be honest, I do believe The essence of life and true their willingness to give if jobs are created, these self is to help and love one peace a chance by working problems will either seize or another. And to better achieve out modalities of ensuring decrease. All play without this, one must go where it is peace and security reign in work makes Jack a dull boy. most needed and appreciated. their communities , where is They must have something Together with my family, the Okpe Kingdom , what has The meeting saw the The people of the doing. Just take for example we set up this foundation been going on there and why presentation of the Kingdom are enthused the literacy school we opened, to give back to the society the need for peace? Edewor Peace, Security with prospects of hundreds of youths now where poverty and lack of The area is underdeveloped. & Investment Agreement investment, what are attending. Imagine when you fund to further education Educational awareness is papers to all the some of the opportunities create jobs. are at its peak. In general, we very low, and the youths are communities, what is the that could be of interest With the experience you want to help reduce hunger, restless resulting to crime content of these papers? to investors in that part have garnered, how poverty and illiteracy among and unruly conducts. Thus, The content of the of Nigeria? recommendations do fellow Africans or those we created a literacy center in document is nothing but The investment comes you have in mind for that relatively falls into this one of the villages. Where we a promise and obligation from fellow Nigerian citizens a more harmonious category. currently have 5 standing and to protect and maintain and any foreigner who wants country, and does the The Foundation has been qualified teachers. We plan to peaceful atmosphere with to invest. Since most of us Edewor Foundation engaged in a number open more. The purpose is to Investors, Investments and are afraid of investing at plan to tackle state and of Peace, Security & train their mind and prepare other citizens in diaspora. home due to embezzlement nationwide issues or Investment initiatives, them for this peaceful NOTE: Many Nigerians in and scam. Seeing the action remain limited to your can you shed some light atmosphere. They loved it diaspora are afraid to go back of the youth and community local community of on this? and thus, the many villages home for fear of harassment towards advocating for Okpe? Delta state (Nigeria) is coming out. and insecurity. peace will motivate and This experience shows that plagued with ethnic and people actually want peace violent unrest, as well as and development. The quest insecurity. Resulting to to learn is proof to that. The underdevelopment which is Edewor Foundation is still one reason why investors and in its infancy stage. Thus, citizens in diaspora refused to our presence or activities relocate or invest. But reality are still limited. Sapele is my is now setting in as the world hometown, easier for us to begins to advance towards relate, so I started with them technology, the aging of first. If this is successful, we violence begins to give way to will extend to others. peace. Which is where w e had On politics, President to come in to unite them. For Buhari is into his second ethnic communities to come and last term, what are together to promote growth some of the priority is something unheard of in areas that you think he PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 43 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

Nigeria handle the happened. Your spirit is Edewor Foundation be stigma that comes with dampened. Mind you, not working on for the rest crimes of a few been just Nigerians only, but those of the year and beyond? labeled on the entire who for years had trust in us. For now, we are working polity? But am glad to hear that the on opening more literacy and must tackle? Your reaction the recent Kid you not. This issue Nigerian government partook skill acquisition stations in Am not a politician and arrest of Nigerians in affected my moral. Just in the operation to crack them interior villages. don’t do politics. So this the USA for diverse imagine after building trust down. question is not for me. cybercrimes, how does and support, such thing What else will the

Hommage a DJ Arafat: His legacy, music, impact, death and afterlife By Amos Fofung

t a local night club in by Ivorian DJs. In Nouchi Bali, Littoral region (Ivorian slang), Coupé Décalé Aof Cameroon, as in a means “to cheat” and “run- disco in U-street, Washington away” or cut and run. The fun, D.C., teens dance to the bass-heavy sound embraced Afrobeat emanating from the joie de vivre that typifies DJ Arafat’s track. The dance , a city known for its style is unusual and much legendary partying. more physical with every part It also celebrated young of the body in motion. This resilient Africans who having characterizes Coupé Décalé a endured the difficulties of dance style originating from being migrants in Europe, Ivory Coast which means “to eventually made it big— cheat” and “run away” or cut sometimes by unorthodox and run. In 2016 and 2017 DJ Arafat was named artist of the year at the Coupe Decale means. Hence the concept Awards .Photo Getty images,BBC. Nightlife in Cameroon of cheating the system and as in most other African last two week of the man scene as a Disco Jokey, DJ in Hômmage a Jonathan, getting away with it. It’s states including a handful of dubbed the King of Coupé Yopougon, one of Abidjan’s wherein he paid tribute to his an aspirational genre that Afropop disco the world over Décalé left fans stunned as best-known nightlife districts then best-friend he lost to a emerged at the time of the is not complete until you find they come to terms with the comes from a musical family motorcycle accident, tragic first Ivorian civil war (2002- teens dancing to a DJ Arafat’s loss of a charismatic, ground- according to Quartz Africa. enough, he died the same way 2007) when dispirited youth songs. He revolutionized breaking artist who brought His mother was a well- as his friend. needed to believe in the Coupé Décalé, taking it not Ivorian dance music to the known singer and his father “The Coupé Décalé sound possibility of a better life just internationally but to a global stage. a prominent sound engineer. and movement started in sometimes in the form of whole new level. At 33, Ange Didier Huon, Raising to prominence nightclubs in the early finding fame and fortune The untimely death earlier who burst onto the musical thanks to his first hit, 2000s where it was brought abroad”, Quartz holds. 44 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs

Fans mourning DJ Arafat.

Globalization of Coupé him and his dancers. This Décalé had become such a norm such Coupé Décalé has had that once a concert of his was People hold a portrait of late Ivorian singer DJ Arafat as others take pictures during his pioneers such as Douk Saga announced in any country, funerals in Abidjan, Ivory Coast on August 30, 2019. SIA KAMBOU AFP. and though DJ Arafat was youths around the location artists to be buried twice as accorded a state funeral at applause before the mood not the creator of the sound, where he will perform got his corps was exhumed by Félix Houphouet Boigny turned sad with many he took it to the mainstream, their dancing shoes ready his followers who after been stadium in Abidjan. And so, bursting into tears. first amassing a large to show Arafat what they’re barred from viewing his it was. Not even the 6,500 security following in Francophone made of. corpse refused to believe that Culture Minister Maurice forces deployed across the Africa then to Europe and An inspiration to dozens he was death. Bandaman conferred on DJ stadium could hold the fans North America where of artists whom he groomed From the Ivorian Arafat the national order who from time-to-time tried significant African diaspora and supported all the way president, of cultural merit for «his to break lose and see if it was populations are represented, through. (who called him «a youth immense contribution to the really DJ Arafat in the casket. his collaboration with rising With 11 albums to his icon and ambassador of artistic radiance» of Ivory State radio and television Afrobeats artists from Nigeria name, the young artist leaves Ivorian music and culture”), Coast. broadcast the event live and and Ghana mirrored in a pan- behind a remarkable legacy. African football legend On Saturday morning, giant screens were installed African following to his name. His star was rising even including Samuel Eto’o and before the private burial, in Yopougon and other To many of his youthful higher with several cross- , hordes of DJ Arafat›s casket was working-class areas, as well fans, DJ Arafat epitomizes continental collaborations African musicians—especially placed at the center of as the upmarket Cocody- the spirit of the sub-genre in and continental hits in the Francophone musicians who the 35,000-capacity Felix Angre district where DJ that they witnessed his rise past years. Last year, he was cite him as having influenced Houphouet-Boigny stadium Arafat lived. to fame and fortune locally. one of the stars highlighted in their decisions to get into in Abidjan, drawing wild In Coupé Décalé dancing an expansion of the world’s music, tributes ruled out comes first—the popping largest music company from all corners with Africa’s of champagne bottles, the Universal Music across , A-list stars such as Davido, expensive cars and the Africa, particularly for the Sidiki Diabate, Fally Ipupa fancy houses are merely an Francophone Africa. and Serge Beynaud mounting aspirational backdrop for the Tributes the podium to sing goodbye merriment. It is a musical Africa has mourned stars, to the music star who had a genre that is about people legends and hall of famers. lot of shining to do. having fun against all odds. But Arafat’s death stood out. His popularity saw the DJ Arafat’s raspy, energetic The artist who leaves behind signing of a petition with voice carried clubbers five children goes down in over 70,000 signatures from Ivorian singer Tina Glamour pays her respects to along with the frenetic history as one of the few fans who asked that he be his late son Ivorian singer DJ Arafat.Source Gulf. percussive styles, deep bass and repetitive minimalist arrangements. An exceptional dancer of his generation, one of the fun moments that always characterize DJ Arafat’s Infinity Health Care Services, LLC concert was him pitting local dancers to compete against www.infinityhcs.com PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 45 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa Verve Card Goes Global After Penning Landmark Agreement With Discover In New York By Amos Fofung

erve, a leading an enhanced customer payment technology experience when transacting Vand card business in globally outside Nigeria.” Africa, and Discover Global “Creating a solution which Network, a U.S.-based facilitates international direct banking and payment payments for our consumers services company have sealed will help to eliminate existing an agreement launching the barriers and simplify the Verve Global Card. process when transacting According to the penned abroad.” agreement that took place in Holders of the Verve New York, Verge cardholders Classic card can still continue will now have the ability to use to freely transact as was their Verve Global Cards on before within Africa and can the Discover Global Network acquire the global card which which provide acceptance in according to Verve officials more than 190 countries and works worldwide and can territories worldwide. be used for payment across The deal which will greatly Point of Sale (PoS), ATMs expand Verve’s existing and online platforms in suite of tailored payment Nigeria, Africa and beyond, products and solutions for wherever the Discover, Diner L-R: Joseph Hurley, Snr. Vice President, Payment Services, Discover Financial its customers will facilitate Club, Pulse Network and Services, Mike Ogbalu 111, Divisional CEO, Verve, Diane Offereins, Executive new international and cross Verve logos are available. Vice President, Payment Services, Discover, and Mitchell Elegbe, Founder/ GMD Interswitch Group, at the Verve Global Card Launch in New York, on border transactions for the To Ricardo Leite, Monday. card holders who can now senior vice president of make payments outside international markets at accepted e-payment gateway, solutions and driving of the largest card issuers Africa on the Discover Global Discover, customers should we have built a world-class transactions across the in the United States. The Network. be provided with the choices value chain ecosystem that African continent and other company issues the Discover An Interswitch digital they want. benefit from the services that international markets. We card, America’s cash rewards payment company that “It is important to us we provide. provide secure, solutions pioneer, and offers private prides itself as a pacesetter that we are working with and services that facilitate student loans, personal loans, in facilitating seamless groups around the world to About Interswitch convenience and real value home equity loans, checking electronic circulation of extend acceptance for their Group. for consumers, businesses, and savings accounts and money as well as value cardholders…at Discover, we Interswitch is a digital governments and other certificates of deposit through exchange in Africa, Verve recognize the importance of payment company of African organizations, helping its direct banking business. now opens its customers to being able to use your card of Origin focused on providing to reduce costs, improve It operates the Discover the world. choice no matter where you convenience and real value operational efficiency and Global Network comprised With the first transaction are traveling,” he said. for consumers. We facilitate drive sustainable revenue of Discover Network, with operated successfully, the the seamless electronic growth. millions of merchant and Global Card, according to About Verve circulation of money as well cash access locations; PULSE, Mitchell Elegbe, Interswitch Verve is Interswitch as value exchange on an About Discover one of the nation’s leading Group Managing Director, Group’s innovative card ongoing, real-time basis. Discover Financial ATM/debit networks; and Group Managing Director, scheme, offering products We began in 2002 as Services (NYSE: DFS) is a Diners Club International, commented on the and solutions that enable a transaction switching direct banking and payment a global payments network “agreement with Discover consumers to transact all and electronic payments services company with one of with acceptance around the Global Network will enable over Nigeria and across processing business, building the most recognized brands world. For more information, Verve to compete with international markets. As the and managing payment in U.S. financial services. visit www.discover.com/ other global card offerings, first African card scheme to be infrastructure, delivering Since its inception in 1986, company. providing cardholders with recognized as a valid, globally innovative payments the company has become one

Call / eMail Us Tel:2404292177, email: [email protected], [email protected] 46 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Verve Goes Global Verve, a leading payment technology and card business in Africa, and Verge cardholders will now have the ability to use their Verve Global Cards Discover Global Network, a U.S.-based direct banking and payment services on the Discover Global Network which provide acceptance in more than company sealed an agreement launching the Verve Global Card. 190 countries and territories worldwide.PAV Shares a collection of pictures According to the penned agreement that took place in New York recently, highlighting the momentous event.

VERVE CARD GOES GLOBAL! L-R: Mitchell Elegbe, Founder/GMD, Interswitch Group, Joseph Hurley, Snr. Vice President, Payment Services, Discover Financial Services, Francis Gbenga Shobo, Deputy Managing Director, First Bank, Olubusola Osilaja, Divisional head, eBusiness, Access Bank, Martins Izuogbe, Divisional Head, Operations, Fidelity Bank, Diane Offereins, Executive Vice President, Payment Services, Discover, Chuma Ezirim, Group Executive, Retail & E-Business, First Bank, and Mike Ogbalu First Bank’s DMD, Gbenga Shobo; Head, Card & Messaging Business, Folasade Femi-Lawal and III, Divisional CEO, Verve, at the Verve Global Card Launch in New York, on Monday. Group Executive, eBusiness & Retail Products, Chuma Ezirim at the Verve Global Card launch, New York

L-R: Founder/GMD, Interswitch Group, Mitchell Elegbe; Group Executive, eBusiness & Retail Products, L-R: Joseph Hurley, Snr. Vice President, Payment Services, Discover Financial Services, Mike Ogbalu FirstBank, Chuma Ezirim; Deputy Managing Director, FirstBank, Gbenga Shobo; Head, Card & 111, Divisional CEO, Verve, Diane Offereins, Executive Vice President, Payment Services, Discover, Messaging Business, Folasade Femi-Lawal and Divisional CEO, Verve, Mike Ogbalu, at the Verve Global and Mitchell Elegbe, Founder/GMD Interswitch Group, at the Verve Global Card Launch in New Card launch in New York York, on Monday.

PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 47 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa Dogfight over Football in Cameroon: FECAFOOT suspends Cameroon Professional League By Boris Esono Nwenfor he Cameroon Football the most glaring example matter before the Chamber of Federation better is the poor performance Conciliation and Arbitration Tknown by its French of Cameroonian clubs in of Cameroon›s Olympic acronym FECAFOOT has continental competitions,” Committee and is willing to suspended the Cameroon the FECAFOOT President, go to the international Court professional League (LFPC) Seidou Mbombo Njoya told of Arbitration for Sport in for a period of two years. BBC Sport. Switzerland. The former has equally set He added, “Prior to “Clubs have continued up an interim body manage every season there has to registering with us for the (Transitional Technical be a general assembly of next season and we›re going Committee) to manage the the league (according to to continue working because affairs of the league for that LFPC statutes) to assess the whatever is going on now is a period of time. previous year but this hasn›t non-event for us,” Semengue The move follows the been held lately. Then there added. Federation›s decision to are the constant conflicts To Basil Mbuwe, sport suspend the activities of between league officials and reporter at The Post FECAFOOT President Mbombo Njoya says he had Cameroon›s Professional club presidents. The league Newspaper, the suspension to step in to save local football that is in a desolate Football League (LFPC) due can›t account for state and of the league is one of the state now. to alleged repeated breaches FECAFOOT money handed best decisions ever. He said, of its own statutes. However out to them and the two main “There are various issues will be paid directly to the individuals appointed will the LPFC president, General sponsors of the domestic that have been going on with players by the Federation. coordinate the activities of Pierre Semengue, insists championships have left. We General Pierre Semengue So this is going to be the the Feminine Football League that he intends to complete feel things can be done better at the helm of the league. big revolution. Financing for a transitional period of his four-year term, despite and that›s what we›re trying The Cameroon professional is very easy. We have the two years. The mandate of an offer from the federation to change.” league needs a new sleeve support of the government, the officials began on the 4th to become an honorary Semengue Vows to and hopefully the league will we are going to look for of September and is expected FECAFOOT president. continue work be professional now as it resources from partners, to end September 3, 2021. The problems mean that Semengue, an 84-year-old claimed to be before.” and the most important The members appointed the 2019 domestic league, military general who was re- FECAFOOT to pay players thing is credibility”. “Most include: President, Eko which was due to start on 1 elected in July 2016 says he directly of the partners left because Mendomo Celine, V.P, September, will now begin in will contest the imposition Seidou Mbombo Njoya has there is no credibility in the Yvonne Asta, while the mid October. of the new committee by said that the FECAFOOT will institution. We are going members include Ufei Nseke “We had to step in to FECAFFOT. “Everything that take charge of the payment to discuss and give some Anoma, Sonkin Née Awoun save local football that is has been done by FECAFFOT of players playing in the guarantee to the government Rachel, and Mouaha épouse in a desolate state now. is illegal» he said at a press professional leagues of the that we are going to make a Dikiongo Marthe. Our championship is far conference. country. better use of this money” the The newly created league from being glamorous and He claims he has taken the The FECAFOOT President FECAFOOT boss outlined will focus on women’s football was speaking to State According to various sport in Cameroon and ensure broadcaster CRTV, “We have analysts, this decision they the running of activities and to hurry up because we have have started may come to organizing competition. The to start the competition by bite them. One stated, “They members will have a daunting the end of October. What have started what they task to make women’s we are planning to do is to cannot finish. This is not the football very competitive in a discuss with the president of best approach which means country where female football clubs and then secondly we they will have to force clubs has almost been relegated to define the type of competition to be accountable. The clubs the background. The change that we want Elite one, or two employ players and let the also comes at a time when and most probably discuss clubs pay the players.” the Confederation of African about the players” Mbombo Women’s Football League Football, CAF has envisage Njoya said created the creation of the female “As a matter of fact, we In a communiqué made version of the CAF champions FECAFOOT officials discussed on dissolving the are going to take charge of a public by President Seidou league. Cameroon professional league. kind of minimum salary that Mbombo Njoya, the 48 PAV - SEP 2019 - MAG 0919 Vol 2 Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs

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