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ISSUE NUMBER 740 VOLUME 2 5 - 11 OCT 2020

African island states launch joint medicines procurement initiative

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South Africa pledges support for Mozambique gas AFRICA projects COVID-19 INFECTIONS ON page 9

THE DECLINE eBotswana rebrands to YTV • Transmission rate has for the past two months been on a downward trend • WHO attributes this a mix of socio-ecological factors page 12

page 16 2 Echo Report Echo Newspaper 05 - 11 Octo 2020

THE AFRICAN STORY

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Head of Design Ame Kolobetso [email protected] Distribution & Circulation Mogapi Ketletseng [email protected] Echo is published by YMH Publishing YMH Publishing, Unit 3, Kgale Court, Plot 128, Africa Covid-19 GIFP, Gaborone Postal address: P O BOX 840, Gaborone, Botswana Telephone: (267) 3933 805/6. E-mail: [email protected] www.echo.co.bw Infections On The DISCLAIMER: Echo Newspaper welcomes concise letters from readers. Letters must carry the full name and address of the sender. Letters must Decline conform to the laws of Botswana and to the Press Council of Botswana’s Code The downward trend of have seen steady declines every and public health measures are (43%), Comoros (39%), Of Ethics. Letters will also be Covid-19 transmission continues week for the past two months relaxed, cases start ramping up Senegal (30%), Benin (29%), edited for length, libel and across the Africa region and is and these include , again,” she said. Madagascar (28%), Burkina Faso language. attributed to robust public health , Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Dr Moeti further indicated (26%), Guinea-Bissau (25%), measures taken by individual Ghana, Ethiopia, Kenya, Senegal, that while testing patterns Namibia (25%), Liberia (22%), governments in the continent as Madagascar and Ethiopia. per country remain low, the Niger (22%), Algeria (22%), Mali well as socio-ecological factors. region’s statistics on testing have (21%) and South Africa (21%). As of Saturday October 3, This pattern in decline is largely been useful for policy as they However, there are some the World Health Organisation attributed to a mix of socio- reflect the patterns of infection countries that experienced (WHO) Covid-19 figures in Africa ecological factors such as low within a country, and the missed during this reporting period were at 1187 689 cases, and 24 464 population density and mobility, COVID-19 cases are largely from September 23 reported an deaths in 47 African countries. hot and humid climate and the because they are asymptomatic. increase in case-counts; Burundi The World Health governing body lower age group. The health She added that there is no (700%), Mauritius (600%), has indicated that transmission body in Africa has warned that evidence of miscalculation of Botswana (482%), Sao Tome Read more Echo has since July been on the decline the decline should not in any death figures, which are more and Principe (200%), Lesotho stories on our contrary to initially fears that way mean the war against the difficult to miss statistically. (178%), Seychelles (100%), Facebook page by it will spiral out of control and pandemic has been won. “Africa has not witnessed an Côte d’Ivoire (51%), Cabo Verde overwhelming the already weak While the World Health exponential spread of COVID-19 (30%), Kenya (27%), Congo scanning the QR health systems in most African Organization (WHO) Regional as many initially feared,” said Dr (18%), Ghana (3%%), Eritrea code below with countries. Director for Africa, Dr Matshidiso Moeti. “But the slower spread of (3%), Mozambique (3%), and your mobile phone According to the WHO Moeti has said the trend is a infection in the region means we Mauritania (1%). Angola and Covid-19 situation report positive development for the expect the pandemic to continue Sierra Leone did not record any published on September 30, continent that speaks to the to smoulder for some time, with significant change in their case thirty-one countries recorded a robust and decisive public health occasional flare-ups.” incidence. decrease in new cases compared measures taken by governments The statistics for the decreasing Another worrying trend is to 29 countries in the previous across the region, she has warned trends in Covid-19 transmission that Health worker infections period ended September 23. against complacency. in Africa as of September 30 continue to increase gradually Eighteen of them registering “We must not become shows the decline as follows with 43 514 (3.7%) infections a decrease of more than 20%. complacent. Other regions of the Cameroon (62%), Gambia (61%), reported in 43 countries since This trend has seen some of world have experienced similar Equatorial Guinea (44%), Chad the beginning of the outbreak. the most affected countries trends only to find that as social (44%), South Sudan (43%), Echo Newspaper 05 - 11 Octo 2020 3 4 Echo Report Echo Newspaper 05 - 11 Octo 2020

AFRICAN SPORTS BRIEFS

ZAMBIA’S FORMER FINANCE MINISTER SAYS 2021 NATIONAL BUDGET LIKELY TO INCREASE THE COUNTRY`S DEBT Zambia’s Former Finance Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane says the country’s 2021 National Budget is likely to further increase the country`s debt levels. Speaking when he featured on Phoenix FM`S Let the People Programme, Dr Musokotwane says the revenue that government is collecting is inadequate to pay salaries for public workers, finance public projects and repay debt, a situation he says will lead to more borrowing. Dr. Musokotwane has further stated that some debts will also be paid by borrowed money because more than 40 percent of the 2021 budget will be financed by borrowed money which he says will ultimately increase the country`s debt levels. Meanwhile, Dr. Musokotwane says the current economic crises is a direct consequence of the over borrowing by government and not the impact of covid-19. Dr Musokotwane has indicated that contrary to assertions by some sections of society that Covd-19 has led to the current economic crisis, the major cause of the current situation is debt servicing. African island states launch joint Finance Minister Dr. Bwalya Ng’andu last Friday unveiled a K119.6 Billion 2021 national with more than K27 Billion of medicines procurement initiative the amount due to be spent on servicing Zambia’s external debt. (Phoenix News) Ministers of Health from seven to take advantage of economies of congratulated the ministers for and noncommunicable diseases, LATEST GLOBAL REPORT small African island states today scale and collective bargaining. this important step forward and it is essential that countries have signed an agreement to jointly High cost of drugs and medical pledged continued support from systems in place for the timely ON TOBBACO REVEALS procure drugs and vaccines in supplies is one of the major WHO to help the countries in procurement of supplies at a INCREASE IN TOBACCO a bid to improve quality and challenges the small island implementing the agreement. reasonable cost and in sufficient CONSUMPTION AMONG access to medicines and other states face due to their modest Dr Moeti noted that the efforts quantities to address treatment health products. populations. made so far in establishing the needs and efficiently complement ZAMBIAN YOUTHS The ministers from Cabo World Health Organization joint procurement programme important investments in health The latest 2020 Global Tobacco Verde, Comoros, Guinea-Bissau, (WHO) Director-General, Dr had already increased promotion. Industry Interference Index report Madagascar, Mauritius, Sao Tedros Adhanom Gebreyesus, the attractiveness of the For the small island states, the has revealed an increase in tobacco Tome & Principe and Seychelles and WHO Regional Director for pharmaceutical market of the pooled procurement of drugs consumption among the youth that form the Small Island Africa, Dr Matshidiso Moeti, Small Island Developing States. is also expected to harmonize thereby contributing to over Seven Developing States signed the joined the ministers in the virtual “By creating a larger stream of medicines management systems, Thousand number of tobacco Pooled Procurement agreement signing ceremony. Dr Tedros demand, we can look forward improve supplier performance related deaths in Zambia. to better access to quality and and reduce procurement work Speaking during the launch competitively-priced medicines. load. Joint procurement is the of the report in on The high cost of medicines is ultimate model of intercountry Monday this week, Tobacco Free one of the major barriers many collaboration aimed at improving Association of Zambia Executive countries in our region face procurement efficiency. Director Brenda Chitindi says in providing affordable health Plans to set up the joint this trend shows the reluctance care of good standard. Pooling procurement initiative began by the Zambian government to our resources is one way of in 2017 in Seychelles during a domesticate the World Health overcoming this challenge,” meeting of health ministers from Organization Framework said Dr Moeti. five Small Island Developing States Convention on Tobacco Control The agreement inked today who expressed commitment Implementation. formalizes the objective of the to implement the programme, Chitindi has since stressed on the Pooled Procurement Programme particularly for medicines for need for government to expedite – to coordinate the procurement noncommunicable diseases. the enactment of the 2018 Tobacco of selected medicines and Guinea-Bissau and Madagascar Products and Nicotine Products health products affordably and joined later. Control Bill. improve product quality. It also “We must admit that it has been She has also highlighted the sets the guiding principles and a long and tedious effort, and I importance of adopting a code governance structure, including commend the contributions of of conduct for all public officials the creation of a secretariat, past and present Ministers and to guide them when dealing with technical committees and a their teams for the dedication in tobacco industry and limit their council of ministers. creating an enabling environment interactions. As the African region faces the for this mechanism to be (Phoenix News) double burden of communicable launched,” Dr Moeti said. Echo Newspaper 05 - 11 Octo 2020 Echo Report 5 WHO ‘outraged’ by sex abuse reports in Congo Ebola operation

The World Health Organization (WHO) promised an investigation on last week into “horrific” allegations of sexual abuse by aid workers combating an Ebola outbreak in Democratic Republic of Congo. “To be very clear, we are outraged to read these reports,” WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a virtual news briefing in Geneva, promising punishment for perpetrators. “We will not tolerate behaviour like this from our 01-10-20 staff, contractors or partners.” The Thomson Reuters Foundation reported on Tuesday that more than 50 women had accused aid workers from the WHO and leading charities of sexual exploitation and abuse. Anyone found involved would face serious consequences including immediate dismissal, Tedros added. “I have initiated an investigation of the specific allegations, as well as broader protection issues in health emergency response settings. WHO has a zero-tolerance policy with regard to sexual exploitation and abuse.” An investigation by the Thomson Reuters Foundation and the New Humanitarian cited interviews with 51 women - many of whose accounts were backed up by aid agency drivers and local charity workers - in which they recounted multiple incidents of abuse. Most were carried out by men who said they were international workers, during the 2018-2020 Ebola crisis, the women said. “These allegations are horrific... Both the director general and myself have spent significant time in the field. I feel terrible to hear these stories,” added Mike Ryan, the WHO’s top emergencies expert. In June, Congo’s government announced the end of the two- year outbreak that killed more than 2,200 people - the second- largest Ebola outbreak since the virus was identified in 1976 - just as a genetically distinct version flared up elsewhere in the country. hat outbreak has infected 124 people and killed 50. Reuters. 6 Business & Finance (SMME’s) Echo Newspaper 05 - 11 Octo 2020 LEA Continues To Support Smmes

in and around Masunga. The five full time employees, and LEA assisted me to get funding business also benefits from engages temporary workers to develop my business and to other LEA services that include during peak periods. compile a tender document to among others business advisory, “LEA enhanced my supply bread to Government coaching & on-site monitoring entrepreneurship skills and institutions. I encourage other as well as mentoring services. assisted me to formalise my businesses to work with LEA Currently the business has bakery business. In addition, as that will help them to grow and ultimately improve their entrepreneurship skills.” said Mrs Nalebomo.

Contact number: 71612319 Email: dianahnalebomo1@gmail. com ARTICLE BROUGHT TO YOU BY LEA

Tha-Di Holdings Bakery (Pty) relevant machinery and start LTD is a LEA assisted enterprise operations. LEA also trained the based in Masunga. Directed bakery employees on Records by Mrs. Dianah Nalebomo, Keeping and Entrepreneurship the business specializes in all Development. In addition, the types of bread and confectionery organization facilitated a three- products including scones, months training programme on cakes, loaves, buns and muffins. Bakery and Confectionery, which Mrs Nalebomo registered further equipped the business with LEA in 2018, and was owner’s baking skills. assisted to develop a business Furthermore, LEA facilitated plan and access CEDA funding Tha-Di Holdings products to start the project. LEA went exposure and market linkages to ahead to handhold Tha-Di supply Government institutions, Holdings Bakery to source schools and the communities

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Empowering the entrepreneur to start and grow their business Echo Newspaper 05 - 11 Octo 2020 Echo Report 7

pandemic on people’s lives and livelihood. This transaction, the largest social bond at the time of issuance, reflects investors’ confidence in the Bank’s Social Bond framework, and its capacity to deliver. We were among the pioneers in the Social Bond market, and would like to thank all our partners, including the arrangers and investors, for their continued trust and support and share this award and success with them,” said Hassatou N’Sele, Treasurer of the Bank. The Bank is a recognized pioneer in the social bond sphere. In March 2020, it received the Environmental Finance’s 2020 bond of the year award—SSA category— for a successful one billion Norwegian krone (NOK) social bond issued in 2019. It African Development Bank wins was the first social bond ever launched in the Norwegian market, and the Bank’s first global award for COVID-19 bond issue transaction in Norwegian Krone. In 2018, the Bank was The African Development Bank continent with its Fight largest social bond at time of in its winners’ announcement recognized as “Second most was selected in a poll of bond COVID-19 Social Bond which issuance. The Bank has since release. impressive social or sustainability market players as the best issuer is an important instrument in listed the bond on both the The bond issue is part of a bond issuer” at the Global Capital in 2020 of a COVID-19 bond for alleviating the impact of the London Stock Exchange and suite of interventions the Bank Socially Responsible Investments its $3 billion dollar-denominated COVID-19 pandemic on African Nasdaq. Bond proceeds, with has rolled out to strengthen Awards. Since 2017, the Bank Fight COVID-19 social bond economies and lives. Thanks to a three-year maturity, will go African countries’ responses to has launched nearly $5 billion issued on March 27, 2020. the very strong support received to alleviate the impact of the the health and economic impacts worth of such instruments The winners of the GobalCapital by investors, we were able to pandemic on livelihoods and of the COVID-19 pandemic. This denominated in US dollars, Bond Awards 2020 were provide an efficient response at a Africa’s economies. includes a COVID-19 Response euros and Norwegian krone. announced on 30 September very challenging time while also “The primary debt capital Facility of up to $10 billion to The Bank is rated AAA by all at a ceremony held virtually catering to the needs of socially markets’ response to the provide flexible and emergency the major rating agencies. In late for the first time in 12 years. responsible investors looking for coronavirus crisis has been assistance to the Bank’s members 2019, the Board of Governors GlobalCapital is a leading source impactful investments,” said Ms. resilient and robust. Institutions to shore up their national budget, of the Bank Group approved a of information on global capital Bajabulile Swazi Tshabalala, the all over the world from economies and livelihoods of 125% increase in the General markets with coverage of all Bank’s Senior Vice President and governments and multilateral their citizens. Capital of the Bank, raising its market segments. Chief Finance Officer. development banks, to domestic “The African Development capital from $93 billion to $208 “We are grateful for the The Fight COVID-19 bond, lenders, to companies have Bank is proud of the success of billion, the largest increase in market’s recognition of the floated on the Luxembourg raised vital financing to see its landmark “Fight COVID-19 the institution’s history. Bank’s effort in responding Stock Exchange and significantly them through this extraordinary Social Bond”, launched to help quickly to the needs of the oversubscribed, was the world’s period,” GlobalCapital noted alleviate the impact of the 8 Business & Finance Echo Newspaper 05 - 11 Octo 2020

looking to advertise their goods and services. Majority of Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMME) do not have an advertising budget and are unwilling to invest in paid digital media advertising. Larger companies with the budget to advertise prefer traditional forms of advertising such as print media and billboards and often underpay small businesses and individuals hoping to make an income from digital advertising. Financial Technology (Fintech), is on the rise in Africa and are disrupting the conventional banking models, using technology to make financial services faster, easier, and more accessible. Africa is home to more than 400 fintech firms enabling payments, funds transfer, lending, and even wealth management. Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa are the top fintech hubs on the continent, accounting for the larger proportion of fintech firms and attracting the lion share of Doing Business in Africa - Monetizing investments. Governments and private sector companies are investing in fintech start-up’s creating the opportunity for innovative individuals to generate Technology and the Internet an income. All signs show that the future By Emmanuel Allottey Africa’s sluggish participation Africa has the highest mobile media monetization in other is bright despite some significant in technology industry such as penetration in the world as parts of the world is a lucrative hurdles and challenges. According to Forbes world’s poor infrastructure, electricity well as the highest data costs source of income and Africans Individuals and companies can richest report, three individuals disruption, political instability of connecting to the internet. have the potential to replicate monetize their websites or social in the top five gained their wealth and poverty amongst others, The potential to convert mobile that business model and create media pages through; Pay Per through technology and the however with strengthened effort users to internet users remains a source of income for the youth. Click Advertising with Google internet. In contrast, none of from all stakeholders, this can untapped by mobile network There are different ways to AdSense, Selling Ad Space, Africa’s top 10 richest individuals be reversed. Technology and operators and other stakeholders. monetize a social media account, Affiliate Marketing, Sponsored gained their fortune through the Internet offers the biggest Social media usage accounts however this is only possible Content, Membership Websites. technology. opportunity to become wealthy for the primary activity on the with participation from other Consult a digital advertising There are many reasons behind if monetized effectively. internet. Revenue from Social stakeholders such as companies expert to explore your options.

of perceived minor obligations on its obligations, or one of the such as Insurance premiums. terms on the policy is breached; Despite this tendency an insurance policy will lapse individuals needs to be aware if the holder does not pay the of the severe consequences premiums. to letting an insurance policy Most insurance policies offer a lapse. The COVID-19 pandemic revival or reinstatement feature has exacerbated financial in their terms and conditions. difficulties leading to an increase Reinstatement in the insurance in insurance policy lapses. This industry means a person’s trend may continue until the previously terminated policy economy starts to recover. can resume if the already insured An Insurance Policy lapse is individual meets the specific deemed to have occurred when requirements for reinstatement. all benefits to the policy holder There is a process that needs to cease and is terminated due be followed for reinstatement to non-payment of premium of an insurance plan. amount on the due date or even Firstly, the insured individual after the grace period. A grace will have to submit proof of period is a defined amount of continued insurability, these time after the premium is due in documents vary from insurer which a policyholder can make to insurer and also depending a premium payment without on the time elapsed. Secondly, coverage lapsing. The insurance the insured individual will have grace period can vary depending to pay all the due premiums on the insurer and policy type. along with the reinstatement It is important to note that if charges prescribed at the time anything happens to the insured of payment. during the grace period the There are advantages and Impact of COVID-19 on the Insurance nominee would be eligible for disadvantages to reinstating the benefits. an insurance policy when it industry – rise in Policy Lapses A Lapsed Policy is where lapses. Contact your nearest individuals no longer enjoy Insurance provider to explore coverage from their respective policies that are affordable and By Emmanuel Allottey the economy. Economists have economy. Studies have shown Insurance policies due to lack of come with the reinstatement predicted substantial job losses that when individuals are facing payment of premiums. When a feature. The effects of COVID-19 has been and business closures because of financial difficulties there is a policy lapses, it usually occurs felt across the various sectors of the Covid-19 lockdown on the tendency to neglect the payment because individuals fails to act Echo Newspaper 05 - 11 Octo 2020 9 Echo Report

is one of the leading financial services providers involved in the financing of up to $485m and $900m ECIC guarantee. “Similarly, Rand Merchant Bank provided the largest funding commitment by an African bank.” Also, DBSA is assisting ENH, a Mozambican government- owned holding company responsible for the research, exploration, production, refining, transportation, storage, and marketing of hydrocarbons and its derivatives, to develop at length to monetise its natural gas and to become a hub for the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. “We reiterate our commitment to assist the government and people of Mozambique to leverage the opportunity to capitalise in this mega project and advance a ‘made in Mozambique, made in Africa’ agenda to increase the supply of locally made goods and services into these projects,” South Africa pledges support for Gina said. Gina said these investments are crucial as countries battle with the aftermath of Covid-19. Mozambique gas projects “This is one area that we’ve all seen the need to make sure that we produce locally, we have our South Africa has reiterated its gas reserves and the associate Developing Afrocentric Solutions the energy sector. The South mega projects locally, so that we commitment to support the liquefied natural gas project in and Forging Partnership in African public and private don’t depend on other countries Mozambique government in the Cabo Delgado province,” Response to Covid-19’ theme.. sectors are actively involved to make sure that we survive as developing its emerging gas Trade, Industry and Competition The Development Bank in supporting the country in countries. market. Deputy Minister, Nomalungelo of Southern Africa (DBSA) is this “very important venture” “I believe as African countries “As we all know, Mozambique’s Gina, said during a South Africa also ramping up investment through the $120m investment this is one opportunity we can new growth opportunity is and Mozambique virtual trade in an infrastructure project in by the bank, Gina told delegated. grab with both hands,” she anchored on the large natural and investment seminar entitled, Mozambique particularly in Meanwhile, Standard Bank added. (Bizcommunity.)

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simultaneously has “liberating” and destructive potential. The continent has yet to develop Digital democracy is still a an effective way to stop the flow of fake news. And the full benefits of digital democracy are being thwarted by digital exclusion that is driven by the high cost of data, long way off in Africa the strategies of authoritarian governments, and in some cases From the mid-2000s onwards, giants are more concerned with widely held fears, prejudices and A number of steps have been the approach of major tech the digital revolution raised hopes growing user numbers than assumptions, they can exacerbate taken to prevent citizens from companies themselves. of democratic transformation addressing social ills caused by distrust and encourage a cycle being able to express themselves But, what we don’t know is and strengthening in Africa. their technology. of violence. online. There is a growing use of just as important. We urgently But it hasn’t quite turned out For example, the content that It is, therefore, significant that spyware across the continent to need more research in a number like that. Now, almost a decade citizens can access increasingly there is relatively little regulation snoop on government critics. of areas. after the “Arab Spring”, techno- depends on giant tech companies, of content moderation. Julie In Tanzania, restrictive laws To what extent has social media optimism has given way to especially for poorer citizens. In his Owono shows that in part this can about what can be said online go exacerbated ethno-regional techno-pessimism. contribution on Facebook’s Free be attributed to the limited local hand in hand with government tensions? How much online African leaders have proved Basics - a service that provides capacity of content providers such pressure. A prominent lawyer content is actually produced able to blunt the transformative basic online services without as Facebook or Twitter. Neither was recently fired because of by governments and the trolls potential of smart phones data charges - Toussaint Nothias has invested heavily in African her “activism”. that work for them? Who should through censorship and internet explains that tech corporations’ experts capable of identifying fake Uganda, Benin and several be responsible for content shutdowns. When the internet dominant position enables them news and hate speech circulated other states have imposed a social moderation and how can ethno- is on, social media attracts more to shape how individuals use the on their platforms. media tax that has excluded many linguistic diversity be accounted attention for spreading fake news internet under the pretence of In part, it is also rooted in the users. for? What are the political and than preventing election rigging. making it more affordable. limited funding available for civil Meanwhile, those who can socio-economy consequences What was once thought of This raises tough questions society groups, considerable afford internet access still face of restricting internet access, as “liberation technology” has about whether multinational linguistic diversity, and the restrictions on governments and how can this be resisted? turned out to be remarkably companies engage ethically volume of information being information. Thus, Lisa-Marie Does the finding that how an compatible with the maintenance in Africa. As Julie Owono’s shared. As a result, organisations Selvik argues that digital individual behaves online does of the status quo. Or has it? Does contribution points out, Facebook such as Africa Check highlight technology has done little to give not dramatically change their this more pessimistic reading has been accused of “dumping” instances of fake news but cannot many African citizens the right to offline political activity in Uganda overlook genuine progress? products such as Free Basics, hope to cover all harmful content. basic government information. hold more broadly? And is social A new publication I co-edited stymieing the production of There are no easy answers to Some sixteen years on since the media reinforcing existing gender with Lisa Garbe – Decoding local alternatives. This has raised these problems though, because creation of Twitter, it is becoming norms rather than challenging #DigitalDemocracy in Africa – concerns of a fresh “scramble when governments do try and clear what we do and don’t know them? These questions should draws together the latest research for Africa”, with multinational combat free speech, Ashwanee about digital democracy in Africa. inspire the research agendas of on the extent to which digital companies expending more Budoo finds that misinformation We know that digital technology the future. technology has changed Africa energy and resources in securing is often abused as an excuse to is acting as a disruptive force that (TheConversation.) … and the ways in which Africa new users than tackling hate clamp down on freedom of is changing digital technology. speech and misinformation. expression. It is important not to lose sight While growing internet A lot of recent analysis has of this more positive impact amid coverage has enabled citizens focused on the digital divide the growing focus on fake news to challenge authoritarian rule, in Africa, and the many people and hate speech. non-democratic leaders have excluded from online access by Sadly, though, further also manipulated or disrupted poverty and lack of coverage. problems are on the horizon. online access. According to Lisa Yet researchers have also found Azeb Madebo reveals how the Garbe, internet shutdowns have that closing this divide cannot be Ethiopian diaspora has fuelled the become the “new normal” in achieved by cheaper technology polarisation between the Oromo some authoritarian states. This alone. Using digital technology to community on the one hand, is especially so during politically access information and resources and the Ethiopian government contested periods such as is only possible when a set of and Ethiopian nationalists on elections or major protests. political, legal, and economic the other. Moreover, while internet conditions are in place. Not all fake news is believed of shutdowns are important, they Facebook and other tech course, but when stories play into are the thin end of the wedge. Echo Newspaper 05 - 11 Octo 2020 Echo Report 11

whom I could learn from, which which has helped to drastically Young entrepreneur fills medical has really equipped me with the decrease delivery times and knowledge needed to overcome building an extensive network the immense challenges of of service providers. supply gap in rural Africa making this business work.” “What’s promising is that McPherson Trading was many of the programmes selected as one the top 20 SMMEs running in the areas we service After identifying a need consistent level of procurement only emergency powder-based in South Africa. have realised the ease with for medical consumables throughout the continent. He oxygen. This officially makes His passion and effort which they can expand their and disposables to difficult- cites obstacles like bad roads with McPherson the youngest CEO of in helping to improve and efforts with a more efficient to-deliver regions and rural severe potholes and vegetation an international pharmaceutical provide quality healthcare to supply chain in place. The long- communities across Africa, that make it impossible for company in the world – a title he communities across Africa has term goal for us is expansion, 20-year old Tony McPherson delivery trucks to reach their was awarded at the ARAB Health not gone unnoticed. Within only and to eventually open local launched McPherson Trading, destination. In some landlocked Conference held in Dubai last 11 months of founding McPherson branches in the communities we a tender based procurement areas, crates of supplies must year. He attributes successfully Trading, McPherson won the serve, so that we can eliminate consultancy to help fill this gap. be delivered with helicopters, maximising supply-chain and 2019 NSBC Youth Entrepreneur having to buy internationally. Since opening doors in which is a costly endeavour. logistics across Africa to receiving Champion Award, and the I would also like to become January 2019, the company has The young entrepreneur is also invaluable guidance from his company was placed among the accredited to supply a larger serviced countries such as Mali, the group CEO of McPherson father, who has been involved top 20 SMMEs in South Africa. variety of products, supplies and , Tanzania, the DRC, Holdings which includes the in cross-border logistics since Success has been attained by medications,” says McPherson. Sudan, Somalia, and Yemen, and running of his late grandfather’s the age of 24. re-investment of funds into the consigned roughly R30 million international pharmaceutical “I’ve been fortunate to be company, streamlining import/ (Bizcommunity.) worth of stock to date. company, EmOx Oxygen, the surrounded by a long line of export permit processing with Infectious diseases such as manufacturer of the world’s businessmen and women from an in-house permit controller malaria, tuberculosis (TB) and HIV have long been some of the world’s biggest killers, and according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), African countries still lag far behind Career opportunity the global average in all three. Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for 93% of malaria-related deaths in the world, while 20.7 million people in East and Southern Africa are living with HIV, with TB accounting for around one in three AIDS-related deaths. Many clinics in rural towns are starved for any sort of medical equipment and supplies needed Career opportunity to treat these diseases. Career opportunity According to the World Health Senior Manager – South Body, low-income countries Director- National Branch Network experience poor availability The Local Enterprise Authority (LEA) invites 1. Production units equipped with the latest of essential medicines and suitableJob Purpose: horticultural enterprises or individuals horticulture technology equipment. equipment in health facilities, withinTo fa ctheilitat eSmall, and ass iMediumst the Nationa andl Bra nMicroch Netw Enterpriseork Director ins t he plannin2. Necessaryg, organising an inputsd developmen sucht asof polseedlings,icies and strat fertilizersegies for the substandard-quality treatments, branches in the South. To facilitate and ensure the co-ordination, organisation and prioritisation of activities within the National Branch Network frequent stock issues and category- South Div is ionfor. T o incubationensure the generatio atn an dGlen timely deliver Valleyy of t he relevan pesticidest information require andd b yspraying the National B raequipmentnch Network Dire castor . suboptimal prescription and Horticulture Incubator. training material. use of medicines. IncubationPosition Requirements: Invite 3. Business coaching services. “Africa’s weak supply The incubation center provides practical and 4. Technology coaching services system has a lot to do with Competencies The Localpoor procurement Enterprise practices, Authoritytechnical1. Botho training(LEA) inviteson different suitable aspects of 2. Partnership lack of storage facilities for horticulture enterprise management under REQUIREMENTS 3. Self-driven pharmaceutical suppliesenterprises and protected 4. or Transformationalindividualsenvironment. leadership The centerwithin also offer thes 1. A letter of intent or motivation on how products, poor transportation business5. managementEntrepreneurship interventions for SMMEs the candidate intends to utilise the skills systems and inefficient 6. Management of financial resources manufacturing capacity.” Mediumto grow Enterprisesand establish themselves category as sustainable for acquired. “These issues are particularly andEducation commercially viable horticulture enterprises. 2. Proof of ownership or access to land with extreme in hard to reach rural A University Degree in Social Sciences, Business Administration or awater related forfield. irrigation. A qualification at Masters level (MBA) would be an added advantage. areas, where large corporations The duration of the programme is nine (9) 3. Successful candidates will be required to do not regularly operate, so Experience they do not possess expertise months,At least 7 and to 10 yearsselected experience individuals in administration will and be relationship under management, go medical with a strong assessment background inand business submi t on the logistical strugglesestablished providedadministration a withhorticulture and the operational following efficiencies. duringincubation training: a medical report prior to starting the encountered in these regions. programme. We have managed to make a big difference over the lastlocated two at Glen Valley just outside years in getting supplies to rural clinics and relief programmes‘’hands-on’’ Eligible candidates training should submit relevantin di erentdocuments to: in a timely manner, with APPLICATIONApplication PROCEDURE Procedure If you believe you possess requisite qualifications, experience and competencies, please submit your application to the Local Enterprise Authority together with demand increasing.horticulture Covid-19 enterpriseSelectionthe following; Committee a short coveringmanagement letter, a detailed and updated curriculumunder vitae, certified Inquiries copies can of your be certificates directed and to names Glen of Valley three referees. Horticulture The Authority has definitely played a role offers a competitive remuneration package. Gley Valley Horticulture Incubator Incubator at 318 6309 in this demand as well” says Private Bag X035 APPLICATION PROCEDURE protectedMcPherson. environment is Theo ered. Authority shall only The correspond withcenter short-listed candidates. provides All submissions to be forwarded to; The Director Human Resources, Local Enterprise GaboroneAuthority, IfPrivate you Village believe Bag you191, possess Gaborone requisite quali cations, or emailed experience to [email protected] and competencies, pleaseClosing submitor hand your Date: delivered application 30 toth to Novemberthe Local Local Enterprise Enterprise2020 Authourity,2nd Authority together block with McPherson Trading specialises A, the following; a short covering letter , a detailed and updatedFor Online curriculum Applications, vitae, writecerti ed fully copies the titleof your of positioncerti cates you and are names applying of three for. referees. The Authority in consumables andenvironment disposables foro ers a competitiveSMME’s remuneration package.to grow and Closing Date: 19th September 2016 th such as PPE, needles, syringes, The Authority shall only correspond with short-listed candidates. All submissions to beC lforwardedosing date to; : 30 The Februar Directory Human 2018 Resources, Local Enterprise intravenous and arterial lines, Authority, Private Bag 191, Gaborone or emailed to [email protected] or hand delivered to Local Enterprise Authourity,2nd oor, block as sustainableA, lot 50676 Fairgrounds and O ce Park Gaborone.commercially For Online Applications, write fully the title of position you are applying for. sutures, saline and distilled th water, wound dressings, and CLOSING DATE: 1 6 Empowering 2016 the entrepreneur to start and grow their business viablesingle-use horticulture medical equipment. enterprises. McPherson believes the gap in getting medical supplies to hard-to-reach regions in Africa Business Advisory • Training • On-site Coaching • Mentoring • Market Access • Business Incubation • Technology and Innovation Support The incubation/is nowhere near closed trainingand that period is expected to last it will take a lot of time and “Mogwebi, re go tlhoma kwa pele.” for 9financial – investment12 tomonths. reach a Selected enterprises / 12 Arts Echo Newspaper 05 - 11 Octo 2020

YMH Executive Director Dumi Lopang

reasons was we wanted the development to ensure that when as eBotswana we change the rebrands name it must itself to be at a time YTV, YMH when we have content that we believe the market currently Executive does not Director benefit from, Dumi especially in Lopang terms of free to air announced a television. competition aimed at developing a new slogan for YTV. The competition began on the 29th of September and closes on eBotswana the 6th of October. The winner stands a chance to win a Blue The competition Melrose decoder valued at P800 began on the 29th of on which YTV can be viewed on rebrands to YTV September and closes channel 2. “We are launching an exciting Botswana’s first commercial rebranded to Ytv. The television Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), on the 6th of October. competition to celebrate the free to air television eBotswana, station was established in the 60’s and started broadcasting BBC ‘‘ change of name of eBotswana originally known as GBC was has and was known then as Gaborone content. In 2002 eTV bought The winner stands to YTV. We do not have a payoff shares in GBC rebranding the a chance to win a line or a positioning statement media company to eBotswana. Blue Melrose decoder as of yet for the channel and Yarona Media Holdings (YMH) our intention is that we want to was later to acquire eBotswana, valued at P800 on involve Batswana in this process which is now 100 percent owned which YTV can be through a competition where by the media group which has people can email a suggested interests in radio, print and viewed on channel 2. payoff line that will then go advertising agencies. The channel presents a variety with the channel.” Lopang said After acquiring the Station, we of entertainment options and announcing the competition. The did not immediately change the has very recently partnered invitation extends to everyone name because we continued for with Mascom to bring the and suggestions should be sent a period rebroadcasting content English to the to [email protected]. primarily from eTV. One of the screens, free to air. As part of Echo Newspaper 05 - 11 Octo 2020 13 Travel

include walking and stalking game. He also has longer term plans regarding conservation, “One of our long term objectives is to relocate endemic big game species that have disappeared from the Tuli due to historical and indiscriminate hunting and poaching of animals like the rhino and sable. “Conservation is everything to us. Tourism is one of the most valuable and sustainable streams of foreign revenue that can benefit local communities. Our vision is to develop this understanding through experiential initiatives, whereby local communities have tangible benefit. We employ 20 staff members and Koro River and Koro Island Camps- offering doing so well over 100 people indirectly are supported. In the scheme of things we are conservation and the Tuli Block experience a small company but we are determined to walk the walk,” he said. In this week’s Echo travel we less visited than the bustling Tuli is a mere six-hour drive McSmith says that in this Much like the rest of the turn our lens to the Botswana’s tourism hubs of Chobe and the from Gaborone so we are easily way our team intends to tourism industry, tourism in majestic Tuli Block and discuss Okavango in the north. accessible and a ‘chauffeured foster long term, mutually Tuli was affected by the halt with Alan McSmith of The Africa McSmith spoke of the Tuli safari’ to our tent stop is also beneficial partnerships with in international tourism the available,” McSmith said. local stakeholders. McSmith remains optimistic Having two camps, Koro River The Africa Experience and “Koro takes pride in being a Camp and Koro Island Camp the two Koro camps source local, hands on safari operator is unique. Koro Island Camp all their staff from the local and it has been a pleasure is ideal for adventure with a communities and offer on- working with the local markets. maximum occupancy of only site training and mentoring I believe the lockdowns have eight guests. The camp style is McSmith said they take pride provided the industry with reminiscent of the grand days in this ‘home grown’ approach. valuable food for thought of the classic safaris, a time of McSmith is an authority on and to see both the value and Hemingway, a time of grand elephants and their behavior importance of viable local exploration. and his game drives often travel,” said McSmith. Koro Island Camp is located on a tiny Limpopo Island, accessible only over a suspension bridge. Koro River Camp is built on decks overlooking the Limpopo floodplain with the suites spaced far apart to maintain privacy and isolation. The outstanding part about the Tuli Block is the natural splendor of the region and as such, McSmith is a devoted conservationist. “We believe that safari operators are custodians of land, and it our responsibility to ensure more understanding and conservation principles are passed down. The reality in Africa is that the future of game reserves and wildlife depends on the partnerships with the local communities that surround them. In other Experience. Block with pride and outlined words, local stakeholders need The Timbo Afrika Foundation, the intended experience of to understand that wildlife is founded by Albert Hartog staying at the Koro camps. worth more alive than dead. in memory of his nephew “Koro River Camp is an 18- For this reason we engage and supports conservation bed luxury tented suite camp heavily with local farmers and research initiatives in on the banks of Limpopo River and neighboring communities Africa, spearheads The Africa where time stands still. We go to work together to alleviate Experience and supports out of our way to cater for your human wildlife conflict flash- visionary conservation every need. Dinners are on the points. We have invested in initiatives in Tuli. The lounge deck or privately set up leopard proof goat paddocks foundation makes funding at your tent or even in the bush. for example.” McSmith said available for grassroots projects Game drives are on offer, and regarding his conservation Alan McSmith is a wilderness for adventurous guests we can philosophy. guide, tracker, Tedx speaker walk and track animals too. If and conservationist. you prefer some down time, the The organisation is investing The Tuli block is located in camp is perfect for this. Large, in an upgrade of some 30 Botswana’s far eastern corner decked tents are all private kilometers to keep the elephants sandwiched between the spaces each with an open-air and predators out of farmlands borders of and shower and private plunge pool. and subsequently, create South Africa, and it’s an area A six bedded family ‘villa’ offers more security awareness of Photo credits : Kim Mcleod Photography of untamed wilderness and ideal getaways for families. the movement of poachers. (www.cthrume.net) 14 Sports Echo Newspaper 05 - 11 Octo 2020

(Zesco United, Zambia), Timothy Odhiambo (Ulinzi Stars) Defenders: Brian Mandela (Unattached), (Simba, Tanzania), (Elfsborg, Sweden), Harun Shakava (Nkana, Zambia), Clarke Oduor (Barnsley, England), Hillary Wandera (Tusker), Samuel Olwande (Kariobangi Sharks), (Mathare United), Johnstone Omurwa (Wazito), Collins Shichenje (AFC Leopards), Andrew Juma (Gor Mahia), (Gor Mahia), Badi Baraka (KCB) Midfielders: Kenneth Muguna (Gor Mahia), (Impact Montreal, Canada), Francis Kahata (Simba, Tanzania), Eric Johanna (Jonkoping’s Sodra IF, Sweden), Cliff Nyakeya (Masr FC, ), Antony Akumu (Kaiser Chief, South Africa), Johanna Omolo (Cercle Brugge K.S.V, Belgium), Kenya coach Kimanzi recalls Ayub Timbe (Beijing Renhe, China), Brian Musa (Wazito), Lawrence Juma (Gor Mahia), Katana Mohamed (Isloch, 34 players for Zambia friendly Belarus), Austin Otieno (AFC Leopards) Forwards: Kenya coach Francis Kimanzi experienced goalkeeper Arnold Mohamed currently based in (Cercle Brugge, Belgium) will (Kashiwa Reysol, Japan), Elvis has called up 34 players to Origi. The Finland based shot Belarus has also been handed be released by their clubs Rupia (AFC Leopards), Masud camp to start preparations for stopper makes a return to the his first ever senior team call up. due to the current COVID-19 Juma (JS Kabylie, Algeria), next month’s friendly against team after a five-year absence, Regular starter in goal Patrick containment measures imposed Timothy Otieno (NAPSA Stars, Zambia, set to be played at the his last involvement with the Matasi has however been left out by the countries they play in. Zambia), John Avire (Tanta Moi Sports Centre Kasarani, as national team coming against in one of the major exclusions, For the trio, they will need to FC, Egypt), Oscar Wamalwa part of preparation towards Zambia in 2015. as well as Spain based midfielder undergo a mandatory 14-day (Ulinzi Stars) November’s Total Africa Cup The tactician has also handed Ismail Gonzalez. quarantine upon return from Reserves: Robert Mboya of Nations qualifier against a maiden call to England based Kenya and thus their clubs (Tusker), Stephen Otieno Comoros. left back Clarke Oduor who However, for the Zambia are unsure of releasing them (Sofapaka), Michael Mutinda Kenya is to play Zambia on has been impressive with his friendly, Kimanzi is uncertain as they are vital members of (KCB), Ibrahim Shambi (Ulinzi 10 October, and the team is club Barnsley FC in the English whether the trio of skipper their squads. Stars) Chrispinus Onyango expected to start camping in second tier and scored the goal Victor Wanyama (Impact (Tusker), Benson Omala (Gor six days before the that assured them of survival Montreal, Canada), Michael Full Squad Mahia). game. last season. Olunga (Kashiwa Reysol, Goalkeepers: Arnold Origi Kimanzi recalled the Under-20 midfielder Katana Japan) and Johannah Omollo (HIFK, Finland), Ian Otieno

would follow all Covid-19 precautionary measures for the games to be played. Zambia hosted Malawi in Lusaka last March, with the hosts winning 1-0 at Nkoloma Stadium, courtesy of Collins Sikombe’s strike.Malawi’s last trip to was in 2016 when the hosts run riot, winning 3-0 with , Cuthbert Malajila and Khama Billiat on target. Malawi started camp training last week amid some setback after two players—defender Hadji Wali and goalkeeper Rabson Chiyenda—tested positive for coronavirus, the FA has confirmed. Wali has since resumed training after completing his quarantine while Chiyenda remains sidelined after testing positive again. News of tested positive Malawi to have friendlies against Zimbabwe and Zambia players is a blow to FAM hopes of restarting the 2020 domestic Malawi has lined up friendlies Chipolopolo in Lusaka on 7 Malawi will use the friendlies also comprises Uganda and football season which was against Zimbabwe and October 2020, then host The to fine-tune for AFCON South Sudan. The Flames beat stopped last March before neighboring Zambia next Warriors of Zimbabwe at qualifying matches against South Sudan 1-0 and lost 2-0 the first COVID-19 case was month ahead of Total AFCON Kamuzu Stadium four days Burkina Faso in November. to Uganda’s Cranes. registered in the country. Cameroon 2021 qualifiers. later, according to the Football Malawi currently lies third Malawi FA Chief Executive The Flames face Zambia’s Association of Malawi (FAM). in qualifications Group B that Officer Alfred Gunda said they Echo Newspaper 05 - 11 Octo 2020 Sports 15

interest in cycling, Odada said, partly because the government ordered public minibuses to leave some seats empty for social distancing. The buses,

“Cycling can contribute to the fight against ‘‘COVID-19 because social distancing is naturally respected,” he said. Costa, who wore his helmet throughout the meeting, has big ambitions. “Our focus was Ivory Coast, but the goal is to make Africa and the Pandemic pushes forward new continent cyclable,” generation of African cyclists he said. normally hugely overcrowded, Wearing a bright green helmet, Last month, after 10 years of Costa, who wore his helmet dangerous, said Cyprine Odada, are the only affordable transport cyclist Andy Costa weaves a campaigning, authorities finally throughout the meeting, has an organiser for the Nairobi for many. dangerous path through trucks told Costa he could help plan big ambitions. chapter of Critical Mass, a global “With COVID we’ve had barrelling down the streets of bike lanes in part of , “Our focus was Ivory Coast, alliance of cycling organisations a lot of beginners reaching Abidjan in the Ivory Coast. Ivory Coast’s commercial but the goal is to make Africa that campaigns for better road out, people who want to know Africa’s traffic-clogged cities capital. and the continent cyclable,” safety. about how safe it is to cycle in make it the world’s deadliest “They are part of the solution, he said. Despite being six months Nairobi,” she said. continent for pedestrians and to make roads more fluid, even Lack of infrastructure is not pregnant, she and hundreds of In Cape Town, cycling activist cyclists, according to the World for health problems,” Jacques the only problem. Kenya’s others cycled slowly through Lebogang Mokwena used to get Health Organisation. Many lack Gabriel Ehouo, mayor of the capital Nairobi began expanding Nairobi’s streets this month a couple of enquiries a week pavements, let alone bike lanes. central business district of cycle lanes five years ago and to commemorate a friend about teaching people to ride. That may soon change thanks Plateau, told Reuters after is now constructing several killed while cycling. Odada Since the pandemic hit she to a generation of African meeting with Costa. through the heart of the is petitioning to Parliament receives them almost every day. cycling activists who have been “Cycling can contribute to business district. to improve legal protections She has taught around 200 given a boost by the COVID-19 the fight against COVID-19 But cars often encroach on for cyclists. women to ride in the past pandemic and the need to avoid because social distancing is the lanes, or authorities do not COVID-19 might help. The three years, she said. Some crowded public transport. naturally respected,” he said. maintain them, so cycling is still pandemic triggered a surge of do not have access to bikes, or might belong to cultures where women do not traditionally ride. Many perceive biking as a sport rather than a method of transport, Mokwena said. “Black women tend not to be cyclists, not because they don’t want to, but because they’ve never had the opportunity to learn,” she said. She only learned to cycle at the age of 30 after moving to New York. Mokwena is Cape Town’s “Bicycle Mayor”, a designation from the global cycling advocacy group Bycs, who also have “mayors” in Nairobi and Gaberone, Botswana and Kampala, Uganda to build cycling communities and engage with local government. Ivorian activist Costa says his main aim is to change perceptions that cycling is for the rural poor. His organisation ‘MyDream for Africa’ makes videos with celebrities such as soccer star Didier Drogba to promote cycling. “The bicycle is the transport of the future,” he said.

(Reuter.) THE AFRICAN STORY

SportEcho Newspaper 05 - 11 Octo 2020

Al Ahly names Mosimane as new coach

Egyptian giants Al Ahly hired Swiss coach Rene Weiler with him an assistant coach keep their positions”, Al Ahly in its 113 years’ history. South African Pitso Mosimane who took over the club for (Rhulani Mokwena), a fitness confirmed. Mosimane (56) started his as their new coach, the a little over one year due to trainer (Kabelo Rangoaga), Hiring Mosimane is marked coaching career in 2001. He had based club announced on organizational reasons, the and a tactical analyst (Musi as a historical landmark for spells with Supersport United Thursday (1 October 2020). club mentioned in a statement. Matlaba). Assistant coach Samy Al Ahly, as the South African and South Africa national team, The eight-time African “Mosimane will lead Al Ahly Komsan and Goalkeepers’ becomes the first non-Egyptian before taking on Mamelodi champions parted ways with for two seasons. He will bring coach Michel Iannacone will African coach to lead the club Sundowns job in 2012. He led The Brazilians to five titles in South African Premier League, two titles and two more in Telkom Cup. He Mosimane (56) also guided Sundowns to their maiden CAF Champions League started his coaching glory in 2016, adding the CAF career in 2001. He had Super Cup title a year later. He spells with Supersport was named CAF Coach of the ‘‘ Year in 2016. United and South His first mission will be Africa national team, guiding The Red Devils in this before taking on season’s Total CAF Champions Mamelodi Sundowns League semifinal against job in 2012. He led Morocco’s Wydad Casablanca. Ironically, he is making a return The Brazilians to five to the continent’s premier club titles in South African competition after losing the Premier League, two quarterfinals with Sundowns Nedbank Cup titles to none but Al Ahly themselves. and two more in Telkom Cup.