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ISSUE NUMBER 775 VOLUME 2 28 JUNE- 04 JULY 2021

Magande calls on politicians to practice politics anchored on high level moral principles

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Mozambique gets €990,000 grant to boost agricultural value chains

AFRICA FACES page 9 Africa Photo Competition launches STEEPEST with Wilderness Safaris COVID-19 Experience SURGE YET page 13 2 Echo Report Echo Newspaper 28 June - 04 July 2021

THE AFRICAN STORY

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Head of Design Ame Kolobetso Africa faces steepest COVID-19 [email protected] Distribution & Circulation Mogapi Ketletseng [email protected] surge yet Echo is published by YMH Publishing COVID-19 cases have risen for the impact of these fast-rising with a vaccination certificate. July. However, only four of the YMH Publishing, Unit 3, Kgale Court, Plot 128, five consecutive weeks since the infections, but the window of Measures to prevent COVID-19 eight vaccines listed by WHO for GIFP, Gaborone onset of the third wave opportunity is closing. Everyone transmission are crucial, but emergency use are recognized Postal address: Africa is facing a fast-surging everywhere can do their bit by with many African countries by the European Medicines P O BOX 840, third wave of COVID-19 taking precautions to prevent having limited access to Agency for the passport system. Gaborone, pandemic, with cases spreading transmission.” vaccines, it is important that WHO and the European Botswana Telephone: (267) 3933 805/6. more rapidly and projected WHO is deploying more vaccines be only one of the Medicines Agency use the same E-mail: [email protected] to soon overtake the peak of experts to some of the worst- conditions countries use to open standards in assessing vaccines. www.echo.co.bw the second wave the continent affected countries, including borders and increase freedom Manufacturers may choose witnessed at the start of 2021. Uganda and Zambia as well of movement. not to apply to the European DISCLAIMER: COVID-19 cases have risen as supporting South Africa- “With high vaccination rates Medicines Agency if they do not Echo Newspaper welcomes concise letters from readers. for five consecutive weeks since based regional laboratories to it’s shaping up into a summer intend to market their products Letters must carry the the onset of the third wave on 3 monitor variants of concern. of freedom, family and fun for in countries in the European full name and address of May 2021. As of 20 June—day 48 WHO is also boosting innovative millions of people in richer Union or European Economic the sender. Letters must into the new wave—Africa had technological support to other countries. This is understandable Area. But the safety and efficacy conform to the laws of recorded around 474 000 new laboratories in the region and we all long for the same of all WHO emergency use Botswana and to the Press Council of Botswana’s Code cases—a 21% increase compared without sequencing capacities joys,” said Dr Moeti. “Vaccine listed vaccines has been proven Of Ethics. Letters will also be with the first 48 days of the to better monitor the evolution shortages are already prolonging globally in preventing severe edited for length, libel and second wave. At the current rate of the virus. In the next six the pain of COVID-19 in Africa. COVID-19 illness and death. language. of infections, the ongoing surge months, WHO is aiming for an Let’s not add injury to injustice. In Africa, a WHO survey is set to surpass the previous eight- to ten-fold increase in the Africans must not face more of 45 countries show that one by early July. samples sequenced each month restrictions because they are their borders are open for air The pandemic is resurging in Southern African countries. unable to access vaccines that travel and only Mauritius will in 12 African countries. A Vaccine shortages are already are only available elsewhere. I require proof of vaccination for combination of factors including prolonging the pain of COVID-19 urge all regional and national international travellers from 15 weak observance of public in Africa regulatory agencies to recognize July 2021. Most countries do not health measures, increased The COVID-19 upsurge comes all the vaccines Emergency Use give quarantine exemptions social interaction and movement as the vaccine supply crunch listed by WHO.” for travellers who are fully as well as the spread of variants persists. Eighteen African In the European Union, a vaccinated against COVID-19 are powering the new surge. countries have used over 80% COVID-19 passport system and require a negative COVID-19 Read more Echo In the Democratic Republic of their COVAX vaccine supplies, for vaccination, testing and test. stories on our of the Congo and Uganda that with eight having exhausted recovery will take effect from 1 -- Facebook page by are experiencing COVID-19 their stocks. Twenty-nine resurgence, the Delta variant has countries have administered scanning the QR been detected in most samples over 50% of their supplies. code below with sequenced in the past month. Despite the progress, just your mobile phone Across Africa, the variant—first over 1% of Africa’s population identified in India—has been has been fully vaccinated. reported in 14 countries. Globally, around 2.7 billion “The third wave is picking up doses administered, of which speed, spreading faster, hitting just under 1.5% have been harder. With rapidly rising case administered in the continent. numbers and increasing reports As many high-income of serious illness, the latest surge countries vaccinate a significant threatens to be Africa’s worst proportion of their populations, yet,” said Dr Matshidiso Moeti, proof of vaccination is leading World Health Organization to fewer movement restrictions. (WHO) Regional Director for Globally,16 countries are Africa. “Africa can still blunt waiving quarantine for those Echo Newspaper 28 June - 04 July 2021 Zambia Elections Report 3 Magande calls on politicians to practice politics anchored on high level moral principles

Former Finance Minister Ng’andu Magande has advised the current crop of politicians to take a leaf from Zambia’s founding President Dr. Kenneth Kaunda and practice politics anchored on high level moral principles. Speaking today on a special program on Phoenix FM dubbed “Our Zambia”, Dr Magande notes that the current crop of leaders has fallen short of the servanthood leadership which the founding fathers aspired

Speaking today on a special program on ‘‘Phoenix FM dubbed “Our Zambia”, Dr Magande notes that the current crop of leaders has fallen short of the servanthood leadership which the founding fathers aspired and practiced.

and practiced. Dr Magande says Zambia can only develop and meet the needs of ordinary citizens if leaders are selfless and servants of the people. Further, the former finance minister has underscored the importance of eliminating corruption among those holding public office and those aspiring for public office.

(Phoenix news) 4 Echo Report Echo Newspaper 28 June - 04 July 2021

Covid-19: African countries win the race against time with testing laboratories Daily testing capacity of countries, which had very In Burkina Faso, which Integration and Business pandemics and public health African countries rose from few diagnostic devices, initially transported its Delivery Complex (RDVP), shocks.” 13,200 at the beginning of the set up two, ten or more samples to Dakar, the number the number of analytical In total, according to the epidemic to 105,000 laboratories, depending on their of screening laboratories has laboratories in Malawi has Bank’s RDVP, the support of In March 2020, Africa had its geographical and demographic increased from 7 to 18, thanks increased tenfold from 14 to the Bank and other partners back to the wall, helpless in the characteristics. South Africa, to the support of development 164 and 2.5 in Ethiopia to 66; has increased the daily testing face of the magnitude of a virus Egypt, Morocco and Algeria partners, including the African in the Central African Republic, capacity of African countries that appeared in Asia and quickly quickly distinguished Development Bank. Test results five new screening laboratories from 13,200 at the beginning spread to the entire planet. Only themselves on the number are now obtained in 48 hours. have been established. of the epidemic to 105,000; two African countries were of daily tests, thanks to the The Nigerian Centre for Disease The results have been 100,000 health workers have then able to test for the novel growing number of laboratories Control has set up testing centres enormous. South Africa been trained and 314 intensive coronavirus: Senegal, with its made operational. across Africa’s most populous increased the number of daily care units are now available for Pasteur Institute, and South The African Development country to detect individual screenings by seven times from Covid-19 patients, compared to Africa, the most industrialized Bank’s Atsuko Toda said cases. 5,000 to 35,000, Ethiopia (3,000 an average of 50 at the beginning country on the continent. these developments gave the In Kenya, machines initially to 12,400) and Burkina Faso of the disease. But Africa is recovering. continent a major victory intended to test for HIV, (268 to 1,160). “It’s a race against time, won Countries have begun to against the outbreak. “The tuberculosis or avian influenza, Nouridine Kane Dia, hands down. Now we have develop testing laboratories. challenge for African countries were redirected to detect representative of the African to win the war against the Strongly supported by the was to control contamination Covid-19, before the arrival Development Bank in Niger, coronavirus,” said Toda. “We African Development Bank, but also to relax restrictive of new machines acquired by recently praised the Bank’s started almost from scratch. they have achieved a logistical measures to allow economies the government. support to this fragile Sahel When we look at the progress and scientific feat. As soon to reopen because the long- According to statistics country because, “the Bank’s made in a few months, we realise as the pandemic began, the term extension of containment compiled in March 2021 by support has helped to strengthen that we have come a long way.” Bank provided $2 million in measures risked creating an the African Development Niger’s capacities to respond APO. emergency assistance to help economic and social crash,” Bank’s Regional Development, more effectively to future the World Health Organization said Toda, Acting Vice President strengthen its capacity to for Agriculture, Human and support African countries. Since Social Development. March last year, the Bank has Detecting the virus, a race been helping countries cope against time won hands down with the health emergency Early detection has been and the socio-economic instrumental in limiting the consequences of the pandemic, spread of the virus and has notably through its Covid-19 helped countries trace, isolate Response Facility of up to $10 and treat confirmed cases. billion. As soon as the pandemic As early as the summer of began, the Bank provided $2 2020, countries rehabilitated million in emergency assistance their unsuitable laboratories, to help the World Health or built them, in cases where Organization strengthen its they had none. By the end of capacity to support African the autumn, almost all African countries countries were able to test their When the first case of populations. Some of them even contamination was announced had fairly efficient laboratories on 11 March 2020, Côte d’Ivoire to tackle the genetic sequencing had no laboratory for detecting of the virus. the coronavirus; it now has After a few months, African about 10. Echo Newspaper 28 June - 04 July 2021 Zambia Elections Report 5 SACCORD hopeful accords signed between political parties will guarantee peace

But Coalition Spokesperson Lusaka today that the level of costs and has called on Zambians Andrew Ntewewe feels this desperation by the UPND has to reject them. Ntewewe has decision by the UPND to resume reached alarming levels and show called on President Edgar campaigns when the country how they do not care about the Lungu to consider reinstating is mourning is inhumane and Zambian people especially amidst Dr Kaunda’s portrait on one of un-Zambian and against all that the covid-19 pandemic. the currencies in order to keep mourns its founding President Dr Kaunda stood for. Ntewewe He is saddened that all the UPND his memories alive. and not to woo votes. has told a media briefing in wants is to take state power at all (Phoenix news) The Southern African Centre for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes –SACCORD- is hopeful that the peace accords being signed between political parties ahead of the August 12th general election will be implemented to guarantee peace before, during and after the poll. SACCORD notes that past peace accords and commitments have failed due to the failure by those involved to implement fully what they have agreed. And SACCORD has commended the commitment to peace by the ruling Patriotic Front and opposition political parties as evidenced in the peace accord brokered by the PF and UPND in Ndola district of the Copperbelt province recently. SACCORD Executive Director, Boniface Cheembe has said additionally, the commitment to non-violence and peace by the aspiring parliamentary candidates for Livingstone Central in southern province from the ruling PF and opposition UPND, Democratic Party and socialist party during the SACCORD/FES political debates is also a step in the right direction. Cheembe has appealed to all political parties in other districts to emulate the proactiveness and drive for peace by political parties in Ndola and Livingstone districts saying peace is in the interest of all political parties as it does not scare away potential voters from participating in elections. He added that electoral violence on the other hand handicaps potential voters from exercising their right to vote and the ultimate victims of this are aspiring candidates who may only have fewer voters’ turnout and thereby injure the quality of their legitimacy. ‘UNDP decision to resume campaigns during mourning sign of desperation for power’

The Democracy and Motherland Defenders Coalition has said the decision by the opposition UPND to resume campaigns when the country is mourning is a sign of desperation for power by the party. The UPND recently rescinded its earlier decision to suspend political campaigns following the death of Dr Kenneth Kaunda saying the move to lift the suspension of campaigns is meant to preach peace as the country 6 Business & Finance (SMME’s) Echo Newspaper 28 June - 04 July 2021 LEA Upskills Local Businesses For Growth & Success Your Family Dentist Dental Clinic

support. Your Family Dentist Clinic continues to benefit from other LEA interventions that include business advisory, coaching and Your Family Dentist Dental patients with or without medical the use of modern technology mentoring services. Currently Clinic, directed by Dr. Pogiso insurance cover. to efficiently offer services in a the business has nine full time Letswere is a LEA assisted Dr. Pogiso Letswere registered timely manner. employees enterprise based in Ghanzi, with LEA in 2014, and was To effectively manage Tau Mall. The business started assisted to develop a viable the business and monitor Contact Details: operations in 2014. The clinic business plan to access funding profitability, the business has offers the following services; to start the project. Three years also been assisted with branding 659 7867 or 762 216 95 complete oral examinations, later, the business was also and intellectual property rights oral surgery, fillings, tooth assisted to source more funds and patenting as well as training Email: Facebook: replacement, cleaning and to expand. The clinic was able on records keeping and customer [email protected] polishing, extractions, root to purchase additional dental care. Your Family Dentist Dental Clinic canals, crowns, teeth whitening, equipment and also to introduce LEA continued to provide the Website: bridges, partials, enamel an outreach clinic in Charleshill. clinic with business advisory www.yourfamilydentistclinic.com ARTICLE BROUGHT TO bonding, dentures, sealants Furthermore, LEA took the client support services that include and periodontal treatments. for benchmarking in South Africa procurement procedures and YOU BY LEA The services are offered to to acquire more knowledge on technology and innovation Echo Newspaper 28 June - 04 July 2021 Echo Report 7

of entrepreneurs able to significantly contribute to the economic and employment landscape of the continent. This requires financial support, as well as skills development when it comes to the critical leadership and transferrable skills needed to succeed. Incentivised contests or competitions are also an impactful way of harnessing the potential of youth when it comes to solving Africa’s challenges and moving the continent forward. This includes both platforms directed at youth as well as initiatives that promote the youth employment environment in any way, including job creation, innovation for social development, education, mentorship and other support infrastructure. For young people who are committed to being part of the Key areas of focus for youth developmentsolution – for themselves, their families, communities and the continent – it is vital to recognise and entrepreneurship in Africa that despite the challenges facing Africa, there are immense With the onset of the Covid-19 empowerment and social true for vulnerable communities Trace Academia online learning opportunities for progress crisis further catalysing the transformation in Africa: where taking care of the family’s app offers free courses aimed at and success. Additionally, this existing 4th Industrial Revolution A lack of access to education basic needs far outweighs the tackling youth unemployment in support system needs to grow (4IR), future of work and global results in many young people in consideration of spending (often Africa by upskilling young people exponentially in order to make a innovation demands, it is critical Africa working in the informal scarce) money on education. This who may not otherwise have significant impact when it comes that businesses, governments and sector, with very poor earning scenario necessitates the urgent access to such training. Courses to achieving the continent’s social impact organisations alike potential, limited opportunities need for free education and range from digital marketing to growth goals, particularly as it ‘walk the talk’ when it comes and little to non-existent job training programmes, including practical skills courses such as is predicted that by 2050, more to supporting the development security. Worse still, a large bursary sponsorships, to help basic electrical work. than half of Africa’s population and success of young people in segment of youth in developing youth transcend the limitations Both financial aid and will be under the age of 25 years. Africa. countries cannot secure work of their financial situations. mentorship are critical for In the spirit of ubuntu, we need Below are some of the key areas at all, due to a lack of education In addition to traditional supporting the entrepreneurs to come together to ensure an of focus for youth development, and/or skills. Tertiary education education and learning, the 4th and job creators of tomorrow. inclusive and progressive future as well as examples of corporate or training is generally out of Industrial Revolution and Future To break the cycle of poverty for the continent and its people. governance and programme reach for many young people, of Work trends mean that digital and generate socio-economic initiatives that are playing their severely impeding their chances skills are becoming increasingly growth for the continent, part when it comes to youth of progress. This is especially necessary. Initiatives such as the Africa needs a future generation 8 Business & Finance Echo Newspaper 28 June - 04 July 2021

the new normal comprises of digital and technology led customer interactions with a strong demand for self- service and direct delivery services. Identifying revenue generating solutions will determine the speed of return to financial prosperity. Other ways to identify opportunities include revisiting your passion, unearthing skills and talents that can be transformed to revenue generating initiatives. Invest in upskilling: many employees and employers have lost their livelihoods resulting from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Certain professions and job roles have been rendered obsolete due to the change in client behaviour and the accelerated adoption of digital and technology alternatives. There is merit in reinvention of oneself to adapt to the new ways The end of COVID-19? of working through learning. Online courses, vocational training and others are among Developing a financial roadmap some of the sources for learning of new skills. Leverage government support: in the new normal governments have released an economic recovery plan with By Emmanuel Allottey economy. from the coronavirus pandemic. core areas in a financial planning comprehensive initiatives to The hardest hit sectors This will form the foundation roadmap. support the return to economic The end of the coronavirus of the economy such as when developing a realistic The next step is to establish growth. The comprehensive pandemic is fast becoming aviation, tourism, hotels and plan to get where you want to your new financial goals: These response includes soft loans, a possibility in Africa. entertainment are poised for a go in the future. In addition, goals should be arranged in funding for business start-up’s The increasing number of return to normalcy whilst small consolidate lessons learnt during order of priorities based on in focus sectors of the economy vaccinations administered businesses, informal traders, the pandemic. The importance impact. The SMART goal setting as well as reversal of pandemic coupled with normalised households, and individuals will of budgeting, strategies for process (Specific, Measurable, induced restrictions. cautionary behaviour such as be searching for ways to recover saving money, avoiding over Attainable, Realistic & Timely) Contact a financial professional sanitising and wearing masks from the financial impact. indebtedness, having protection is a tool that assists to clearly to explore further options! has provided a glimmer of hope The first step is to evaluate from unexpected events and define new goals. ! for the full reopening of the the financial impact resulting estate planning are some of the Look for new opportunities: Cryptocurrency and the rise in Online Trading scams

By Emmanuel Allottey The volatility and fluctuation of many African nation’s The buzz behind currencies make forex trading Cryptocurrency has risen to appear lucrative as it offers an its peak during the coronavirus attractive currency to trade in and they also use search engine to make an informed decision. you use to browse the internet, pandemic as more people explore i.e.US Dollars. Forex trading optimisation, which means their Review the protective check email, or chat on social alternative ways to generate “investment schemes” have scam sites will pop up when measures in place: Withdrawal media. These activities place income. There has also been a emerged top of the list of people search for investments and deposits are one of the most you at risk of many types of parallel rise in online trading illegitimate online trading deals. online. important aspects of a broker. malware, including the kind scams with different variations Day trading is the buying and To avoid falling victim to such You should be able to perform that will harvest your online including those trading in stocks, selling of a security within a scams ensure you: these actions simply and safely credentials in order to hijack crypto-currency, precious single trading day. This is Do your research: check the on demand. Scammers use the your financial accounts. metals, commodities and most common in the foreign authenticity of the website same pattern of requesting the Online investing is a risky binary options and forex. The exchange market and stock including the physical address maintenance of high minimum business. Serious investing adoption of technology during market. However, scammers of the business. Identify if the deposits with low withdrawal involves broad diversification, the pandemic has heightened lure victims by using online broker is licensed and regulated limits. Being able to access your rebalancing, active tax interest in online stock trading brokerage platforms built on by an authorised regulatory funds at any point you choose management, market timing, platforms as individuals attempt fake software not plugged into body. Review the terms and is vital. staying the course, and the to become investors seeking real forex exchanges. conditions and policies for Never login to trading use of investment instruments returns through trading Scammers target victims via transparency. It is vital to gather platforms or financial accounts which require training and platforms. direct messages on social media as much information as possible from the same computer that certification. Echo Newspaper 28 June - 04 July 2021 9 Echo Report

cooperation and that it can act as a catalyst to extend it to the private sector where it exists a huge and largely untapped potential,” underlined the Italian Ambassador Dr. Gianni Bardini. African Development Bank country manager Dr. Pietro Toigo noted that the grant would provide critical support to Mozambique, especially amid the socioeconomic challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. “We are pleased to partner with the CTA and the Government of Italy to support Mozambican SMEs recover from the COVID pandemic and scale up their competitiveness, as part of the African Development Bank’s commitment to help Industrialise Africa and Mozambique,” he said. The project supports the goals of Mozambique’s Country Strategy Paper (2018-2022), which focuses on two strategic pillars: infrastructure investments that enable transformative inclusive growth and job creation, and Mozambique gets €990,000 grant agricultural transformation and value chain development. The Minister of Industry to boost agricultural value chains and Trade, Dr. Carlos Alberto Fortes Mesquita, highlighted the The project will enable production and quality control. Development Bank and the Associations of Mozambique, importance of such initiatives the businesses to better tap The project will enable Italian Technical Cooperation at the ceremony to hand over and their catalytical role in into national and regional the businesses to better tap Fund, which will benefit the grant funding. promoting Mozambique’s markets and capitalize on the into national and regional about 300 agro-processing We are pleased to receive agriculture modernization and opportunities created by the markets and capitalize on and agribusiness Small and this grant from the African the industrialization of critical African Continental Free Trade the opportunities created by Medium-sized Enterprises (SME) Development Bank and the sectors of the economy. Area the African Continental Free associations in Mozambique, Italian Technical Cooperation Recently the Bank approved The African Development Trade Area. The Confederation particularly youth and women- Fund a $1 million grant to boost local Bank, with financing from the of Business Associations of led SMEs operating along the “The grant is apt to further content and the development of Italian Technical Cooperation Mozambique is the implementing development corridors of Nacala- step up the intense bilateral initiatives of small and medium Fund, has provided a €990,000 agency. Beira-Pemba-Lichinga,” said Dr. relations in the agriculture enterprises. APO. grant to help smaller agro- “We are pleased to receive Agostinho Vuma, President of area built through the many processing enterprises boost this grant from the African the Confederation of Business projects financed by the Italian 10 Echo Report Echo Newspaper 28 June - 04 July 2021

UNESCO and WHO urge countries to make every school a health- promoting school

Global standards will be piloted These global standards will be Based on a set of eight global · Free screening and with dignity, and may limit the in Botswana, Egypt, Ethiopia, piloted in Botswana, Egypt, standards, the resource package eyeglasses have led to a 5% number of school days missed Kenya and Paraguay Ethiopia, Kenya and Paraguay. aims to ensure all schools higher probability of students during menstruation. UNESCO and the World Health The initiative contributes to promote life skills, cognitive passing standardized tests in The Health Promoting Schools Organization today launched the WHO’s 13th General Program and socioemotional skills and reading and math. approach was first articulated Global Standards for Health- of Work target of ‘1 billion lives healthy lifestyles · Comprehensive sexuality by WHO, UNESCO and UNICEF promoting Schools, a resource made healthier’ by 2023 and the · Malaria prevention education encourages the in 1995 and adopted in over package for schools to improve global Education 2030 Agenda interventions can result in a adoption of healthier behaviours, 90 countries and territories. the health and well-being of 1.9 coordinated by UNESCO. 62% reduction in absenteeism. promotes sexual and reproductive However, few countries have billion school-aged children “Education and health are · Nutritious school meals health and rights, and improves implemented it at scale, and and adolescents. The closure of interdependent basic human increase enrolment rates by sexual and reproductive health even fewer have effectively many schools around the world rights for all, at the core of any 9% on average, and attendance outcomes such as the reduction adapted their education systems during the COVID-19 pandemic human right, and essential by 8%; they can also reduce of HIV infection and adolescent to include health promotion. has caused severe disruptions to social and economic anaemia in adolescent girls by pregnancy rates. The new global standards will to education. An estimated development,” said UNESCO up to 20%. · Improving water and help countries to integrate health 365 million primary school Director General, Audrey · Hand-washing promotion sanitation (WASH) services promotion into all schools and students have gone without Azouley. “A school that is not reduces absenteeism due to and supplies in school, as well boost the health and well-being school meals and significantly health-promoting is no longer gastrointestinal and respiratory as knowledge on menstrual of their children. increased rates of stress, anxiety justifiable and acceptable. I illnesses by 21% -61% in low- hygiene, equips girls to maintain and other mental health issues call for all of us to affirm our income countries. their body hygiene and health have been observed. commitment and role, to make “Schools play a vital role in the every school a health-promoting well-being of students, families school”. and their communities, and The global standards provide a the link between education resource for education systems and health has never been to help foster health and more evident,” said Dr Tedros well-being through stronger Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO governance. UNESCO and WHO Director-General. “These newly will work with governments launched global standards are to enable countries to adapt designed to create schools that the package to their specific nurture education and health, contexts. The evidence is clear. and that equip students with Comprehensive school health the knowledge and skills for and nutrition programmes in their future health and well- schools have significant impacts being, employability and life among school-aged children. prospects.” For example: Based on a set of eight global · School health and nutrition standards, the resource package interventions for girls and boys in aims to ensure all schools low-income areas where worms promote life skills, cognitive and anaemia are prevalent can and socioemotional skills and lead to 2.5 years of additional healthy lifestyles for all learners. schooling. Echo Newspaper 28 June - 04 July 2021 Echo Report 11 12 Travel Echo Newspaper 28 June - 04 July 2021 the most trusted sources of travel-related information that travelers use when researching a trip are those perceived to have aligned interests: friends and family (67%) and review websites (50%). In contrast, the least trusted are those with a clear vested interest in selling, such as social media influencers (30%) and celebrities (25%). Once again, Gen Z was revealed to be the least trusting in almost every category. A similar story played out when examining trust in different types of travel-related information. Customer ratings (54%) and written customer reviews (51%) are among the most trusted. However, third-party certification (39%), photos of products such as hotel rooms provided by travel companies (42%) and third-party ratings Global study investigates the state and such as hotel star systems (43%) were revealed to be the least impact of trust in travel, and travel retailing trusted. Enabling retail According to new independent across 10 countries was The request from consumers 3. Data privacy In addition to identifying research commissioned by conducted by Edelman Data & here is clear; the time has come Data privacy was another gaps in trust, the research also Travelport, the travel industry Intelligence (DxI), the research to eliminate hidden fees and key issue highlighted by the uncovered evidence that trust can boost global recovery by and analytics arm of Edelman, improve the overall transparency research. Only four out of ten directly influences purchasing addressing four consumer trust which has studied trust for over of pricing and communication.” travellers (40%) reported that behaviour. Due to Covid-19, gaps in price transparency, 20 years through the Edelman they currently trust travel almost half (46%) of travellers Covid-19 health and safety Trust Barometer. 2. Covid-19 health and safety companies to use their personal today, for example, were shown measures, data privacy and It revealed the two most The majority (56%) of travellers information in the right way. to prioritise trust over all other information credibility. important factors in building that participated in the study This was especially apparent factors when choosing a travel “The travel industry needs consumer trust in travel agencies said the travel industry has done among Baby Boomers (33%) supplier. to sharpen its focus on trust”, and travel suppliers, such as well in implementing Covid-19 and Gen Z (36%) respondents. Many travellers also stated, said Greg Webb, chief executive airlines, are having ‘no hidden health and safety measures. When it comes to using when trust is in place, they will officer at Travelport. costs’ (55%) and ‘fully flexible Going forward, however, information to personalize consider purchasing multiple “This study has shown, as or refundable products’ (45%). around half said they would experiences, travellers said travel-related items (48%), an industry, we are not as Unfortunately, most travellers like more reassurance on how they are most comfortable upgrading their package (43%) trusted as we would like. The currently deem industry robustly some measures are being with companies using data and buying non-travel-related good news, however, is that performance in both of these enforced, in particular, improved that they have actively shared items such as credit cards (34%). we now know what the issues areas to be poor (60% and air filtration, social distancing with them through one-to- “Trusted companies make are and we also have a once- 57% respectively). Travellers and managed boarding and one conversations (46%), past better retailers,” Webb in-a-lifetime opportunity to in New Zealand and Australia queuing. booking behaviour (46%) and concluded. “When trust is hit reset, as countries re-open were shown to be the most loyalty activity (44%). combined with cutting-edge and travellers eagerly get back disappointed on this point, with a Webb added: “The travel They are less comfortable, technology and effective sales, it on airplanes. If we move quickly significant 40 and 39 percentage industry should be proud of however, when information is becomes a powerful proposition. to address these issues, we can point gap between importance how quickly and effectively it sourced indirectly, for example, At Travelport, we will continue to accelerate industry recovery and performance. responded to Covid-19. What we through social media activity invest in each of these areas in a as well as the modernisation of “The importance of price learned from the study, however, (35%), public records like credit bid to not only help the industry travel retail.” transparency can’t be is that travel suppliers and scores (37%) and past shopping, rebound from the pandemic but overstated”, continued Webb. agencies will benefit from being search and booking behaviour come out the other side more “To put it into context, having clearer in their communication with other companies (40%). agile and stronger.” Trust gaps to consider no hidden costs is a full 16% on certain measures, like social 1. Price transparency more influential on trust than an distancing.” 4. Information credibility (BizCommunity.) The study of 11,000 travellers airline’s long-term safety record. According to the research,

a Reuters analysis. But the Seychelles looking archipelago has also seen a surge in infections. to diversity economy Radegonde said the high rates of vaccination had led beyond tourism post- some people to relax their guard. “People became a bit Covid over-confident, dropped their guard and forgot about social distancing, started partying,” Seychelles said on Wednesday its spread. he said. An increased rate of it is looking to diversify its The move starved resorts, contact tracing may also have economy beyond its mainstay cruise ship ports and nature “Overnight we saw the airport Seychelles has been called contributed to the reporting of of tourism into areas such as reserves of visitors. “It’s been closed, no planes coming, no one of the highest vaccinated more positive cases, he added. fisheries after visitor numbers a massive challenge,” Minister visitors coming in, and the nations in the world, employing The country is now were battered by restrictions to for Foreign Affairs and Tourism economy just was on its knees.” the Sinopharm, Sputnik and concentrating on vaccinating the arrest the spread of Covid-19. Sylvestre Radegonde told the Other sectors of the economy Covishield shots. remaining 5,000-6,000 people The Indian Ocean archipelago Qatar Economic Forum on which rely on tourism to thrive It has administered close who are still to be inoculated saw revenue from tourism plunge Wednesday. were at a standstill. to 138,000 doses of Covid-19 before it can contemplate any by 61%, a loss of $322m last “The economy depends still “That is why we pushed for vaccine so far, which, assuming booster shots that might be year, as tourist arrivals dropped on tourism. We are looking now vaccination, maximum people every person needs two doses, needed, Radegonde said. by 70%. Authorities closed off at diversifying the economy, vaccinating, so we could reopen is enough to have inoculated the island nation early in the moving into other sectors like the borders as we did on March about 70.5% of the country’s (Bizcom.) coronavirus pandemic to stem fisheries,” he said. 25 this year,” Radegonde said. population, according to Echo Newspaper 28 June - 04 July 2021 13 Travel

Africa Photo Competition launches with Wilderness Safaris Experience paid eight-night safari for two ambassador with an immense people sharing at a choice of three passion for wildlife, I am thrilled Wilderness Safaris Classic camps to be working with Wilderness (Botswana, Namibia, Zambia or Safaris to help take its ‘Africa Zimbabwe). The top prize also in Focus’ competition to new includes a private photographic heights: to drive more entries guide, international flights to the and ultimately help CITW further destination country, as well as conservation education for charter flights; total value for the children in rural communities overall prize is some USD22 000. – something that really resonates All submitted photographs with my desire to stretch my will be displayed in an online own field of vision. My upcoming gallery on Wilderness Safaris’ Wilderness trip to Botswana is website. A shortlist from each also a personal dream come true, category will be announced particularly as it’s an opportunity on 30 October and then on 15 to share knowledge and skills November all winners of the with the company’s legendary competition with be announced. guides, as well as meet the local The People’s Choice Competition community at Eretsha during the runs between 01 – 10 November, food handover”, said Brooke. giving the public the opportunity Akihiko Murata, Chief to vote for their favourite image Operating Officer of OM per category. Digital Solutions Corporation, “In addition to top wildlife the manufacturer and seller of photographer and Olympus Olympus-branded equipment, Explorer, Brooke Bartleson, added that OM Digital Solutions being one of our esteemed 2021 Corporation was proud to ‘Africa in Focus’ judges, we are continue its partnership with also delighted to be hosting Wilderness Safaris and its support her on a six-night safari to of the annual photo competition. Botswana in July. In her capacity “As a pioneer of conservation as judge, Brooke is not only tourism with a reputation for promoting photographic safaris protecting and supporting local to encourage the return of travel communities and biodiversity to Africa, but while in Botswana protection, Wilderness Safaris Wilderness (CITW) is the • African Wildlife she will take the opportunity is providing a lasting impact for To celebrate the fifth edition of sole beneficiary of this year’s • African Landscapes to further enhance our expert change, and we are thrilled to its esteemed “Africa in Focus” competition. • People/Cultures & guides’ photography skills be a part of it”, he said. Photographic Competition, Entries for the 2021 “Africa Communities of Africa to the benefit of our guests’ “With all proceeds from the Wilderness Safaris, in in Focus” competition open • Conserving Africa’s photographic experiences”, competition going to CITW partnership with Olympus on 1 September and close on Wilderness added Hadley. to help facilitate sustainable cameras, has announced its 15 October, with the winners Moreover, a key focus conservation through leadership world-class judging panel, announced on 15 November. “We are particularly of Brooke’s safari will be development and education comprising award-winning Entries are not limited to delighted to introduce the participating in the latest of children in Africa, we are wildlife photographers Brooke Wilderness Safaris areas; instead, Young Photographer award for Botswana essential supplies delighted to be working together Bartleson, Shannon Wild and photographers, guests, partners, photographers who are 18 and distribution in Eretsha village with such a range of visionaries to Suzi Eszterhas, along with intrepid travellers and Africa younger, given that nurturing near Wilderness Safaris Vumbura help make our 2021 competition luxury travel maven Melissa enthusiasts are invited to submit future environmental heroes is Plains Camp. Running since our best one yet. As CITW Biggs Bradley, and pioneering any of their favourite images a key focus area for us and our the beginning of the pandemic currently commemorates its Zimbabwean conservationist, taken anywhere in Africa. At non-profit partner, CITW”, in 2020, Wilderness Safaris milestone 20th year of operation, Moreangels Mbizah. Brooke an entry fee of R300 (USD25) noted Wilderness Safaris Chief Conservation Heroes COVID- we hope that the competition Bartleson will also be joining each photographer is allowed a Commercial Officer, Hadley relief programme has already helps raise much-needed funds Wilderness Safaris on a Botswana maximum of five entries, more Allen. assisted some 60 000 people to drive its range of unique safari in July, to help further submissions will come at an A range of exceptional prizes from 35 communities with over programmes to continue making capture this time of renewed additional cost. for the Wilderness Safaris 13 000 food parcels and other a positive impact in our partner optimism for travel to Africa. The categories for submission Photographer of the Year is on provisions. communities”, concluded Non-profit, Children in the are: offer, including an all-expenses “As an Olympus Explorer and Hadley. 14 Echo Report Echo Newspaper 28 June - 04 July 2021 CLASSIFIED ADS Call 3933805/6 To Advertise. CALL 3933805/6

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Kaizer Chiefs stun Wydad in Casablanca

second leg in Johannesburg On the half hour mark, Bvuma next weekend. made a brilliant save to deny The Serbian attacker swept Muaid Ellafi’s well angled header the ball home in the 33rd off another good delivery from minute when he connected the right delivered by Ayoub home from a Njabulo Blom El Hassouni. In the second cross on the right. The goal half, Wydad pushed Chiefs into was given after a successful their own half, forcing them to VAR check that overturned an defend deep inside their own initial decision for an offside. box. However, they could not Before that, Chiefs hadn’t crack the tight defense line. El created much and it was the Karti and Ayoub El Kaabi both Samir Nurkovic’s first half African giants stunned their goalkeeper Bruce Mvuma made home side which had the most had good chances to score, goal handed Kaizer Chiefs a hosts in the first leg of the save after save to ensure that of the chances. In the 27th but none could beat Bvuma 1-0 victory over Wydad Club TotalEnergies CAF Champions even with only 20pc of the minute, skipper Walid El Karti on the night. Athletic in Casablanca on League. possession, Amakhosi earned headed over from an Ayoub El Saturday night as the South Nurkovic had the goal while the advantage ahead of the Amloud cross. (Cafonline.) Echo Newspaper 28 June - 04 July 2021 Sports 15

Host city Nairobi ready to kick off the 2021 U20 Barthés Trophy

Sponsored by the Société from Senegalese football star secure travel arrangements. Andrew Owor, competition, defeating the then Générale, the U20 Barthés Sadio Mane who recently Speaking about effects of the Vice President added, “As much champions Namibia 21-18. The Trophy is the only junior attended a training session pandemic on the tournament, as we are keen and excited to team went on to finish sixth at tournament in Africa where with the team ahead of their Rugby Africa’s President, host our young players in the that year’s Junior generally eight national U20 departure to Nairobi. Khaled Babbou, said, “Despite U20 competition, we know that Trophy tournament in Brazil. teams compete for the title Meanwhile, competing the challenging backdrop of the precautions need to be taken In early 2020, Rugby Africa team Namibia will no longer on-going COVID-19 pandemic, to protect the players in their granted Barthes Trophy hosting As the 2021 edition of the be participating as increased the Kenya has home countries, and we respect rights to the continental youth tournament number of covid cases in the gone out of its way to make the decision of local authorities for a three-year period until – The U20 Barthés Trophy – country prevent them from sure the U20 Barthés Trophy in managing the pandemic. The 2022. kicked off in Nairobi’s Nyayo travelling. will be hosted successfully. tournament is not cancelled Unfortunately, owing to national stadium from 24 June – This year’s U20 Barthés Trophy and more information and the COVID-19 pandemic, the 4 July 2021, the Senegalese team will be a good preparation for For this, we at Rugby Africa details on the programme will competition could not be held arrived in Nairobi in the early Kenya – who automatically are very grateful and we also be shared in due time.” in 2020. At the time competing hours of Thursday morning qualify for, and will also highly value the support of Sponsored by the Société teams included Kenya, Namibia, before heading to their training host the 2022 Junior World the Kenyan local authorities. Générale, the U20 Barthés Senegal, Madagascar, Tunisia, bubble at Nairobi’s Brookhouse Rugby Trophy. Also finding a This should have been a bigger Trophy is the only junior Zimbabwe, Côte d’Ivoire, School, in preparation for the challenge to travel to Kenya is event with 4 teams competing tournament in Africa where Zambia. event that takes place in the Madagascar who have also been for the African Champion title generally eight national U20 This year’s U20 Barthés Kenyan capital from 26th June hit by travelling restrictions but nevertheless we are eager teams compete for the title. It Trophy, however, will be a 2021. and closed borders due to the to see the young boys returning is held on an annual basis and good preparation for Kenya The squad who finished escalating pandemic. on the field of play. the winners of the competition – who automatically qualify third in the last edition of the earn the right to represent the for, and will also host the 2022 tournament held at Nairobi’s Their participation is not They represent the future of African continent at the World Junior World Rugby Trophy KCB Sports Club in 2019 will be confirmed at this stage, but all African rugby and this is an Rugby Junior Trophy. In 2019, at Nairobi’s Nyayo national looking to draw on inspiration options are being explored to exciting opportunity for them.” Kenya hosted and won the stadium. (APO.) THE AFRICAN STORY

SportEcho Newspaper 21 June - 27 June 2021

Making CAF globally competitive and self-supporting

The President of CAF, Dr Patrice being regarded and viewed as Since March 2021, several In certain agreements, as also to assist with building Motsepe has issued a statement a respected Confederation that meetings were conducted in disclosed in the PWC CAF Interim relationships and partnerships outlining the activities and implements and adheres to Africa and globally to advance Report, payments were made for the Member Associations governance and other changes governance, auditing, ethics, and promote the interest of CAF to middlemen and third parties with their Governments and that the new CAF leadership is financial and management and its Member Associations and which are incomprehensible potential sponsors. introducing since their election global best practices; making also to build relationships and and unacceptable. These issues There is a lot of work that needs in March 2021; to make African it attractive to current and partnerships with current and cannot be discussed in public as to be done over the next few football globally competitive potential new sponsors and potential sponsors, African Heads CAF has obligations of privacy months and years to implement and self-sustaining. partners. of State and their Governments, and non-disclosure in these the objectives and goals of CAF, as It became apparent to the private and public corporations agreements. stated, inter alia, in the amended new leadership of CAF after It is also important that the and other African and global EXCO may have to discuss and “CAF 10 Point Action Plan”. conducting several meetings quality of the competitions stakeholders. consider new CAF competitions The unity and commitment with current and potential that CAF hosts are globally Developing and promoting which may generate additional of CAF’s Member Associations sponsors, the private sector, competitive and appealing football at schools and investing funding or income for CAF, its and stakeholders, as well as some African Heads of State to spectators, viewers and in the youth is imperative for Member Associations and bodies the interventions and changes and Government ministers and interested parties in Africa and the future of African football. and also contribute to African that are being introduced by stakeholders in football; that they globally. CAF and FIFA had a successful football becoming globally the new leadership is creating have had a poor and negative launch of the pilot project of competitive and self-sustaining. optimism and confidence that perception of CAF concerning In this regard steps are being the CAF Pan-African Schools In this regard, we are assessing African football will, over the its adherence to governance, taken to: Football Championship in and in preliminary discussions medium to long term, succeed auditing, ethical, financial and improve the efficiency and Kinshasa which was attended to start an inclusive and broadly and become globally competitive management good practices. professionalism of CAF’s by President Félix Tshisekedi supported and beneficial CAF and self-supporting. These negative perceptions Competitions and its staff and several of his Ministers and African Super League. We have Dr Patrice Motsepe would like may, to some extent, be invest in African football other football stakeholders. been following the attempts by to thank the members of EXCO, confirmed by the incriminating infrastructure and ensuring that some top European clubs to the CAF Vice-Presidents, the and damning Price Waterhouse in every CAF Member Association This was followed by a humble form a Euro Super League and Member Association Presidents Coopers (“PWC”) CAF Interim there is a FIFA approved stadium donation of USD 10 million will learn from their experience and leadership, the 6 Zonal Report which identified certain build and strengthen from the Motsepe Foundation and pitfalls. Presidents, FIFA and in particular irregular, unethical and improper relationships with current and to the CAF Pan-African Schools The issues relating to CAF President Gianni Infantino, the transactions and conduct. This potential sponsors and partners Football Championship. The and its media and broadcasting CAF Secretariat and Mr Veron Report was circulated to the retain and employ donation is intended to be used rights are also receiving serious Mosengo-Omba, the members of CAF Member Associations in appropriately qualified and as prize money for the winners attention as this is an important the CAF Standing Committees, May 2021. skilled personnel of the 6 CAF Zonal Schools source of funding and finance African Heads of State and their CAF is committed invest in the youth and in the Football Competition and the for CAF, its Member Associations Governments, our sponsors and to implementing the future of African football ultimate champion of the CAF and bodies. partners and all stakeholders for recommendations of the Final develop and grow women’s Pan-African Schools Football The President of CAF, Dr Patrice their cooperation, support and PWC CAF Report and ensuring football Championship. Motsepe, will continue visiting commitment to CAF. that the irregular, unethical protect the integrity and We are also concerned about several Member Associations and improper transactions professionalising refereeing some of the contracts and in their countries to advance (Cafonline.) and behaviour do not happen introduce appropriately priced agreements that CAF concluded and promote their interest again. This should result in CAF video assistant referees (‘VAR’) in the past. and the interest of CAF and