South Africa Lifts THE AFRICAN STORY Lockdown Restrictions

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AFRICA’S COVID-19 EVOLUTION DIFFERENT -WHO page 2 • Difficult To Determine Specific Infection Peak In The Continent 2 Echo Report Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020

THE AFRICAN STORY

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DISCLAIMER: Echo Newspaper welcomes evolution different -WHO concise letters from readers. Letters must carry the full name and address of the sender. Letters must As Africa marked the sixth moth with the highest infections in preventive, diagnostic and care for patients (47%) are all conform to the laws of last week since the COVID-19 Africa and at fifth spot in the treatment measures being particularly low at the district Botswana and to the Press Council of Botswana’s Code pandemic was first detected, the world had reached its peak of strengthened, with all countries level.” Of Ethics. Letters will also be World Health Organisation says infections. now able to diagnose COVID-19, Dr Moeti has underscored that edited for length, libel and its evolution in the continent has The world health governing 14 performing over 100 tests per while progress has been made, it language. been different to other regions body said that COVID-19 initially 10 000 population. is important that governments of the world that the virus has capital cities in Africa but has “Production of oxygen, step up readiness and response affected. since changed and was now critical for severely ill COVID-19 measures, particularly at moving from high density urban patients, has also considerably the subnational levels. With Lately, many countries in areas to informal settlements and increased, with the number the loosening of movement Africa have been experiencing then onward to rural areas that of oxygen plants in the region restrictions, there are risks sudden surges in the cases, have a lower population density. rising to 119 from 68 at the onset, that the virus may spread even forcing them to re-introduce while the number of oxygen further into remote areas of the restrictions to movement in a According to Regional Director concentrators has more than continent. bid to contain the local spread for Africa Dr Matshidiso Moeti, doubled to over 6000.” “Not only must we keep up with of the virus. curbing COVID-19 in the A recent WHO assessment the evolving trends, we must also Read more Echo The World Health Organization continent is a marathon and based on self-reporting by 16 anticipate, predict and act faster stories on our (WHO) says its preliminary not a sprint. countries in sub-Saharan Africa to head off potentially disastrous Facebook page by analysis has found that an “We are observing multiple found that the countries improved outcomes,” said Dr Moeti. “Areas exponential surge in cases which local outbreaks each with their their capacity to respond to of high transmission as well as scanning the QR peak about two to three weeks own infection patterns and peaks. COVID-19. WHO measured localities with relatively fewer code below with later is not occurring in Africa, It is by bolstering the response countries’ readiness in a range infections both deserve attention. your mobile phone but instead, many countries are at the community level that we of areas including coordination, In short we must be strong on experiencing a gradual rise in will win this race. The COVID-19 surveillance, laboratory capacity, all fronts.” COVID-19 cases and it is difficult response must be integrated case management, infection The health body is currently to discern a specific peak. into the fabric of every health prevention and control. supporting countries witnessing “Transmission patterns district,” Dr Moeti said. “Six months ago, the score was a large number of COVID-19 also differ between countries, The analysis also found that in 62% and now it is 78%. While infections, and South Africa but more importantly within the past six months, countries much progress appears to have became the first country to countries,” WHO said. have made a lot of progress, been made at the national level, receive members of a surge team That being the case, South with many governments quick at the district level countries from WHO. Africa on Saturday lifted to impose lockdowns and key are generally lagging behind. lockdown restrictions on the public health measures that The scores for coordination (Additional Reporting WHO) economy as President Cyril helped to slow down the virus. (38%), infection prevention Ramaphosa said the country, This has over time led to and control (46%) and clinical Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020 Echo Report 3 Seven African countries to start testing for COVID-19 antibodies

Seven African countries will in Addis Ababa. start administering coronavirus Western governments are antibody tests from next week, a using antibody tests to find out regional body said on Thursday, how many of their citizens have as part of efforts to understand been infected, in the hope that the extent of the outbreak on will help them reopen their the continent. economies. Africa has so far conducted 9.4 million coronavirus tests, a 10% increase over last week, Nkengasong said. These tests show whether people currently “Liberia, Sierra have COVID-19. The continent’s relative isolation has so far spared Leone, , it the worst of the pandemic, but Zimbabwe, low levels of testing in many ‘‘ countries mean Africa’s infection Cameroon, , rates are likely to be higher than Morocco are the reported, experts say. As of Thursday, Africa had first set of countries recorded more than a 1 million that committed cases of COVID-19 and 24,113 deaths, according to a Reuters to it,” said John tally. Nkengasong said 25 Nkengasong, African countries still have full border closures while 23 “Liberia, Sierra Leone, are imposing testing at entry Zambia, Zimbabwe, Cameroon, points. He stressed the need to Nigeria, Morocco are the first set harmonize border testing and of countries that committed to recognition of certificates in it,” said John Nkengasong, head order to facilitate travel. of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, based (Reuters )

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made statements to the effect that Africa was presentation a different evolution of the virus infection. The world health body noted that for Africa it was difficult to discern a specific peak. “An exponential surge in cases which peak about two to three weeks later is not occurring in Africa, but instead, many countries are experiencing a gradual rise in COVID-19 cases and it is difficult to discern a specific peak,” WHO said. Despite imposing one of the world’s toughest lockdowns when the country had only a few hundred cases, South Africa saw a surge in coronavirus infections that left it with the fifth highest number of cases in the world — currently around 579,000, of whom around 11,500 have died. The COVID-19 crisis has battered an economy already in recession and pushed millions of South Africans deeper into extreme poverty. But Ramaphosa said rates of new infections had fallen to an average of 5,000 a day, from a peak of 12,000 a day. This, as well as a rise in recoveries, were “significantly reducing the pressure on our health facilities”, but he cautioned that cases could surge if people fail to maintain vigilance. Restrictions on international travel remained in place, he said. The lifting of restrictions on South Africa Lifts alcohol will be a relief to the battered hospitality and drinks industries, some of which have been pushed close to bankruptcy Lockdown Restrictions and shed thousands of jobs. “The further easing of restrictions South African President of the Public Health Emergency, “All indications are that South “The move to level two means presents us with the greatest Cyril Ramaphosa has said all Ramaphosa said the government Africa has reached the peak and that we can remove nearly opportunity since the start of indications were that South would end the ban on alcohol moved beyond the inflection all of the restrictions on the the pandemic to breathe life Africa had reached the peak of and tobacco, allow restaurants point of the curve,” Ramaphosa resumption of economic activity into our struggling economy,” COVID-19 infections Ramaphosa and taverns to return to normal said, adding that the cabinet across most industries,” he said. Ramaphosa said. made the announcement on business, subject to strict hygiene had decided to move to lower, Ramaphosa made the Saturday night as he announced regulations, and remove the ban “level two” restrictions from announcement at a time when (Reuters.) a sweeping removal of lockdown on travel between provinces. midnight on today (Monday). the World Health Organisation restrictions on the economy.

“All indications are that South Africa has reached‘‘ the peak and moved beyond the inflection point of the curve,” Ramaphosa said, adding that the cabinet had decided to move to lower, “level two” restrictions from midnight on today (Monday)

In his much anticipated address as the country reached the end Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020 5 6 Echo Report Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020

on some of their promises. Another factor was that governments focused solely on developing their economies, forgoing the negative impact on

Projects in Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire,‘‘ Kenya and Namibia all showed that key ecological and social cultural criteria were missing. This happened even after the government engaged local communities at the start. But they did not follow through on some of their promises.

the ecology and people. This was the case for the Review Of Nine African ‘Blue phosphate mining initiative in Namibia. It was also the case for port infrastructure projects. Economy’ Projects Shows What In Cameroon, the Kribi Port project led to the displacement of communities and large-scale deforestation. Kenya’s Lamu port Works And What Doesn’t project led to habitat destruction. Negative consequences like Africa has 38 coastal countries equally distributed, and resources between government, industry, Three of the case studies were these can lead to instability and six islands whose maritime must be used in a way that is other stakeholders and the local from Kenya, while one cut across or secessionist movements. industry is estimated to be worth ecologically sustainable. communities throughout the five countries. Examples include Nigeria’s Niger US$1 trillion per year. This figure Findings from unsuccessful process – from conception to Drawing on our case studies we Delta and Angola’s Cabinda. will increase as they develop their projects showed that governments implementation. found that successful initiatives Achieving the goal of successful offshore hydrocarbon, energy, had the right intentions. But The projects we looked at all accentuated the involvement of blue growth in Africa requires tourism, maritime transport, the emphasis was on economic involved investors, governments local communities and promoted strong political commitment. This shipping and fishing sectors. outcomes. Social equity and and communities. They included sustenance of natural ecosystems. is vital to balance economic, social These industries are collectively ecological sustainability got marine transport and shipping, They successfully balanced and environmental benefits. called the “blue economy”. They limited attention. port infrastructure, fisheries and ecological, social and economic We propose the adoption are recognised as central to In conclusion, to achieve blue aquaculture, marine phosphate features. of a collaborative framework Africa’s sustainable development. economy goals, coastal states mining and marine protection. This happened through involving various stakeholders. They can also play a key role in must reconsider their strategies. The nine projects we looked the active engagement of These would include government, achieving the continent’s Agenda A collaborative framework at affected 11 countries. These the government, and other international corporations, 2063. This includes achieving would amalgamate the top-down were Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, stakeholders, with local scientific communities, NGOs and integration, prosperity and peace. and bottom-up approaches to Kenya, Namibia, The Gambia, communities. Examples included local communities. They would But for this to happen, it is blue economy management. It Madagascar, Seychelles, Tunisia, seaweed farming in Kenya and work collectively throughout important that the benefits are would entail active engagement Egypt, Algeria and Morocco. the community of fishers project the process, from inception to in Madagascar. Another was completion. the community-led mangrove All parties must be actively conservation and restoration engaged throughout. By being project – “Mikoko Pamoja” – in involved, from the beginning to Kenya. the end, communities can solve Unsuccessful projects issues that arise along the way. were likely to exclude local Seeing communities as equal communities in the process and partners also means that fears undermined their livelihoods. – for instance about timing or They also tended to prioritise compensation – are allayed. And economic gains at the expense grievances about livelihoods or of the environment. ecological concerns would be These projects included identified early on and addressed. the development of port As coastal states look to make infrastructure and marine gains, they must aim for economic phosphate mining. development, local community Projects in Cameroon, Côte inclusion and environmental d’Ivoire, Kenya and Namibia sustainability. One aspect all showed that key ecological cannot be prioritised over the and social cultural criteria were other. Without this they risk missing. This happened even perpetuating a cycle of instability. after the government engaged This could be social, economic local communities at the start. or political. But they did not follow through (TheConversation.) Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020 Echo Report 7 Mauritius Tourism, Reeling from COVID, now hit by oil Spill

Tourist operators in Mauritius fear that an oil spill from a Japanese ship will further damage their businesses, already reeling from the coronavirus epidemic, and could cost jobs if their pristine beaches are spoiled. Tourism generated 63 billion rupees ($1.6 billion) for the economy last year. In May, the central bank said that in the past two months alone, the nation had lost 12 billion rupees in foreign exchange due to the fall in tourism. Willow River-Tonkin, who owns a kite-surfing business, said local guides would be some of the hardest hit. “It is really going to affect the communities down there, especially for the fisherman, the local guys that live there, you know that’s how they make money from tourists,” said “Taking them out to go diving to go snorkelling, to go wake boarding, to go see dolphins and all that sort of thing you know and all of that is going to affect it, if we don’t get it under control very soon.” The MV Wakashio, owned by Nagashiki Shipping and operated by Mitsui OSK Lines Ltd, struck a reef and went aground off the Indian Ocean island’s southeast coast on July 25. It began leaking oil last Thursday. Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth declared a state of emergency last Friday. Romina Tello, the 30-year-old founder of sustainable tourism agency Mauritius Conscious, said that border closures due Leadership and Management Development the coronavirus had already battered tourism. Mauritius shut its borders on March 19 and has had only 344 cases of COVID-19, of which 332 have recovered and 10 have died. It is still closed to international air travel. The southeast coast where the oil spill happened is famous for snorkelling, kite surfing and people visiting the sea flora and the fauna of Mauritius, Tello said, as well as sailing, as boats tend to travel to the islands nearby. “We are trying to activate domestic tourism. But now, it is impossible for me to recommend for people to travel to the southeast coast due to the smell and they cannot swim because of the spill,” she told Reuters.

(Reuters.) 8 Business & Finance Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020

By Emmanuel Allottey seen African currencies inevitably weakened. High Net Worth Individuals From the inception of world (HNWI) is a term used by the currencies abandoning the gold financial services industry standard and allowing their to designate persons whose exchange rates to float freely investible wealth (assets such against each other, there has as stocks and bonds) exceeding been many currency devaluations $1millon. events that have hurt not only the This classification is measured wealthy citizens of the country using the United States Dollar. For involved but has had a rippled wealthy Africans their wealth in effect across the globe. local currency must be converted African countries are notable into the American dollar for their tumultuous operating equivalent for measurement. environment consisting of The volatility of the local political unrest, central bank currency of a potential HNW policies, high crime rates, poverty individual may either lead to and lagging infrastructure. a gain or reduction in their Weak economic performance wealth rating. Questions have in African nations compounded been asked about the limited with volatility in exchange rates number of Africans on notable directly and indirectly affect the lists of wealthy individuals and accumulation of wealth. one of the attributes to this is Key drivers of wealth creation exchange rate volatility. are; strong safety and security, African economies are highly media freedom and neutrality, reliant on revenue generated from secure ownership rights, good commodity exports to external economic growth, a well- markets, due to their rich mineral developed banking system wealth. In addition, African and stock market, low levels of economies remain dependent government intervention, low on the import of finished goods taxation, ease of investment, from developed countries. and wealth migration into the The interconnectedness of country. global trade exposes African Many African nations perform nations to currency risk. Global poorly on most of these indicators demand and supply chains, and and over time this has translated the complex nature of financial to the number and net asset How Exchange Rate markets have seen African value of HNWIs decreasing. currencies being affected during Exchange rate movements global events. can have a positive or negative The novel COVID-19 outbreak impact on an individual’s wealth. Volatility is affecting has destabilised global trade with HNW individuals in Africa will demand subsiding dramatically, be exposed to currency risk if sharply lowering commodity their assets remain denominated prices as well as the fleeing of in local currency. African Prosperity foreign capital, has consequently

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By Emmanuel Allottey According to statistics, 1 in 5 The cost of premium mobile people have their phone lost, devices is now beginning to Africa has over half a billion stolen or damaged every year. overtake the price of some unique mobile subscribers Mobile phone devices have television sets. Getting insurance to date, making Africa the become so valuable that they cover on a mobile device has fastest growing mobile market. can be considered as assets. The become necessity looking at the Mobile phones offer Africans value or cost of premium mobile hazards that are faced in society. a convenient and affordable devices has risen significantly The immediate threat requiring way to get connected to this over the years with premium insurance cover is theft. Africa is ever growing digital world. models averaging over $1000 home to above average criminal The insurance market in Africa per device. The significance activity in the world. In the is the least penetrated in the of the cost requires adequate event of theft insurance will world and the opportunities protection and insurance cover replace the mobile phone for growth are tremendous. in event of any disaster. device. Another potential risk Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020 9 10 Politics Report Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020

had won less than 50% of the poll. The rest is history. Zanu-PF struck back with a truly vicious campaign against the MDC, Tsvangirai withdrew from the contest, and Mugabe remained as president, controlling the levers of power. The ANC looked on, held its nose, and scuttled home to Pretoria saying the uneasy coalition it left behind was a job well done. Third, successive Zanu-PF governments have become increasingly militarised. Mnangagwa may have put his military uniform aside, but it is the military which now calls the shots. It ultimately decides who will front for its power. There have been numerous statements by top ranking generals that they will never accept a government other than one formed by Zanu- PF. The African Union and Southern African Development Community have both outlawed coups, but everyone knows that the Mnangagwa government is a military government in all but name. So, it is all very well to call for a transitional government, one which would see Zanu-PF engaging with the opposition parties and civil society and promising a return to constitutional rule and the holding of a genuinely democratic election. But we have been there before. Repression in Zimbabwe exposes No one in their right mind believes that a Ramaphosa government, whose own South Africa’s weakness credibility is increasingly threadbare because of its bungled South African president Cyril and then relapse after a decent to look at three fundamental Former South African response to the coronavirus Ramaphosa’s dispatch of envoys interval to the sort of behaviour differences between 1976 and president Thabo Mbeki played a epidemic, its corruption and to Zimbabwe in a bid to defuse that prompted the latest crisis now. crucial role in forging a coalition its economic incompetence, the latest crisis, in which the in the first place. First, Vorster was propelled government between Zanu-PF has the stomach to bring this government has engaged Back in 1976, apartheid South into pressuring Smith by and the opposition Movement about. in a vicious crackdown on Africa’s Prime Minister John the US, which was eager to for Democratic Change (MDC) Any relief, any improvement opponents, journalists and the B. Vorster fell in with US plans halt the perceived advance after the latter effectively won on the present situation will be freedoms of speech, association to bring about a settlement of communism by bringing the parliamentary election in welcomed warmly in Zimbabwe. and protest, has been widely in then Rhodesia, and hence about a settlement in Rhodesia 2008. But South Africa held But no one in Harare – whether welcomed. relieve international pressure which was acceptable to the back from endorsing reliable in government, opposition or Such has been the brutality on his own government, by West. In turn, Vorster thought indications that MDC leader civil society – will really believe of the latest assault on human withdrawing military and that by complying with US Morgan Tsvangirai had also that Ramaphosa’s increasingly rights by President Emmerson economic support and closing pressure, his regime would won the presidential election ramshackle government will Mnangagwa’s regime that the border between the two earn Washington’s backing as against Robert Mugabe. be prepared to tackle the issue something had to be done. And, countries. an anti-communist redoubt. As a result, Tsvangirai was that really matters: removing as the big brother neighbour Ian Smith had little choice Today there is no equivalent forced into a runoff presidential the military from power. next door, South Africa is the but to comply. Today, no one, spur to act. It is unlikely that US contest, supposedly because he (TheConversation.) obvious actor to do it. not even the most starry-eyed president Donald Trump could It may be guaranteed that hopefuls among the ranks of point to Zimbabwe on a map. Ramaphosa’s envoys – Sydney the opposition and civil society Second, South African Mufamadi, a former government in Zimbabwe, believe that intervention today is constrained minister turned academic, and Ramaphosa’s South Africa will by liberation movement Baleka Mbete, a former deputy be prepared to wield such a solidarity. They may have their president of South Africa, former big stick. The time is long past differences and arguments, speaker of the National Assembly that Pretoria’s admonitions of but Zanu-PF and the ANC, and former chairperson of bad behaviour are backed by a which governs South Africa, the African National Congress credible threat of sanction and remain bound together by the (ANC) – were sent off to Harare punishment. conviction that they are the with a very limited brief. They So, why is it that Vorster could embodiments of the logic of were accompanied by Advocate bring about real change, twisting history. Ngoako Ramatlhodi and Smith’s arm to engage in As the leading liberators of diplomat Ndumiso Ntshinge. negotiations with his liberation their respective countries, The mission quickly ran into movement opponents that they believe they represent trouble. The envoys returned to eventually led to a settlement the true interests of the people. South Africa without meeting and a transition to majority If the people say otherwise in members of the opposition. rule, and ANC governments an election, this can only be After all, the pattern is – from the time of Nelson because they have been duped now well established: crisis, Mandela onwards – have been or bought. It cannot be allowed intervention, promises by the so toothless? that history should be put into Zanu-PF regime to behave, If we want an answer, we need reverse. Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020 Echo Report 11

marketed by the country’s mobile an oversupply of information How apps on Mobile Phones are operators, are helping drive up via dedicated WhatsApp lines use of these platforms. eluded even the most astute radio However, there’s also a presenter. changing Zimbabwe’s talk radio downside to the advent of digital In addition, some messages media technologies and digitalised reaching the studio WhatsApp newsrooms. Observing live studio channel were so badly typed In Africa, radio still has wider came with new challenges just to explain a point discussed shows I witnessed a number of that they would be set aside, geographical reach and higher as newsrooms experience an in the previous show or even to structural constraints. the journalist preferring to audiences than any other oversupply of digital information give us story leads. For example, while radio read out only well-typed information and communication from audiences. Apps like WhatsApp have audiences may celebrate the messages. Newsroom pressures technology, including television I set out to study a local radio become so pervasive and possibilities of easily sending and deadlines associated with and newspapers. station in Harare, the capital of immersed in our everyday lives critical questions via WhatsApp broadcast media mean that there Like the rest of the world, Zimbabwe through live studio that many more people can to studio hosts, an apparently isn’t the luxury of spending too African radio is breaking ethnography and sustained now easily communicate with unintended consequence was much time on one question. away from being an analogue interviews with radio producers larger numbers of contacts than that the journalist managing live In mass communication studies, communication tool that relies and 21 audience members, the before. In the context of live studio debates struggled to read these are seen as exclusionary on top down information flows latter largely working class Harare talk radio, mobile phones are out all the messages received. practices in live radio talkback to one that relies on multiple residents. allowing more people to cheaply The studio WhatsApp number shows. feedback loops. The main driver of Unsurprisingly, both producers and conveniently access studio commonly becomes congested. Democracy is normatively this is digital media technologies. and audiences found the debates. Some messages and comments seen as thriving in environments It’s a trend I examine in a convergence between radio and Prior to the emergence of digital are left unread and get buried where all voices, opinions and paper called Mobile Phones and mobile phones is stretching out media technologies, land lines under an avalanche of newer views across diverse population a Million Chatter: Performed the communicative space. It were expensive and not nearly ones popping up on the screen, profiles are respected and given Inclusivity and Silenced Voices allows more inclusive, seamless as widely domesticated as mobile in turn buried under even newer a fair chance of representation. in Zimbabwean Talk Radio. I and real time debate between phones are today. ones. Once this happens, it’s My study showed that, at wanted to observe what is really radio hosts and audiences. There By 2017, WhatApp was already hard to tell how many quality least in terms of volume, the happening at the convergence was a strong feeling that radio by far the most popular app in contributions have been lost by convergence between radio and between radio, smartphones and continues to inculcate a sense Zimbabwe. It accounts for up not being read. So not all voices mobile phones is stretching out related mobile-based applications of imagined community. One to 44% of all mobile internet reaching the studio get a fair the public sphere to accommodate such as WhatsApp, Facebook producer said: usage in a country where 98% chance of being heard. more voices. Digital technologies and Twitter. Because we have a dedicated of all internet usage is mobile. I call these unintended are allowing for new participants I found that apps like mobile line for WhatsApp, our According to Postal and constraints, though, because to engage actively with radio. WhatsApp have indeed grown programme has grown a bit in Telecommunications Regulatory they are not necessarily a public discourse by connecting popularity and we know some Authority of Zimbabwe, result of failure by journalists (TheConversation.) more voices to participate in of our listeners in person. Some promotional WhatsApp and and producers. They are more live talkback radio – but this of them visit us during the day Facebook access bundles, a technical setback in which 12 Travel Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020

like Pilanesberg and Madikwe located closer to the capital city Top 10 Countries In Africa That and untouched wilderness areas in the Cape and the magnificent Garden Route. A safari tour to South Africa’s Offer The Best Safari Experience? favourite reserves is highly affordable on the current exchange rate and less expensive generally because the national parks and game reserves are more accessible than those found in Botswana, Kenya and Tanzania. Safari travellers also have a vast choice of accommodation in South Africa; ranging from budget-friendly bush camps and self-catering bungalows and guest houses to ultra-luxury safari lodges and luxury safari tents. The choice of places to stay and things to do on a safari holiday in South Africa are endless..

7. Tanzania

There are 54 countries in Africa 2. Kenya programmes and embattled 5. Rwanda but there are 10 top destinations Kenya is home to the iconic wilderness regions have been Thirty years after Rwanda that dominate safari tourism on Maasai Mara National Park; restored to their former glory. made international headlines the continent. Each country one of the 7 Natural Wonders of The top two safari destinations for the horrific genocide offers something unique for Africa and world-renowned for in Mozambique are Limpopo that took place, the country wildlife travellers. its breathtaking vistas, pristine National Park in the south and has taken massive strides to wilderness and of course, its Gorongosa National Park in boost its tourism and welcome 1. Botswana legendary mass migration of the north. They are hidden wildlife travellers back to wildebeest, zebra and gazelle gems that attract intrepid iconic rainforest regions Tanzania is without doubt one during the Great Migration. wildlife travellers happy to such as Volcanoes National of the best safari destinations in Without doubt, the Maasai Mara venture off the beaten path Park, acclaimed as the finest Africa. The splendid Serengeti is is at the top of every wildlife for an exceptional safari place on Earth for gorilla and world-famous not only for the lover’s safari bucket list but it experience. Combine a safari chimpanzee trekking. However, Great Migration but also for its isn’t the only reason Kenya is tour of Mozambique with a awe-inspiring beauty, natural regarded as the ultimate safari magical holiday on the coast diversity and iconic landmarks destinations in Africa. and you will have the best ‘bush such as the Ngorongoro Crater There’s Lake Nakuru, home to and beach’ holiday. and Mount Kilimanjaro. more than a million flamingoes Combine a holiday in the in season; Amboseli National 4. Namibia magical Zanzibar Archipelago Park, lying in the shadow of with a safari tour of Tanzania the mighty Mount Kilimanjaro; and you’ll have the ‘bush and Tsavo East National Park, one of beach’ holiday of your dreams. Botswana is arguably one of the largest protected wilderness Rwanda has a lot more to offer the finest safari destinations areas in East Africa… and so adventure travellers than its The Serengeti is the gold in Africa, and also one of the the list goes on and on. Kenya sought-after populations of standard of wildlife experiences most expensive. The country offers adventure travellers the primates. and a safari destination on every works on a low-density tourism quintessential safari experience Nyungwe National Park traveller’s bucket list. However, model which ultimately comes in wilderness regions that are offers a safari experience of don’t forget wilderness regions with a high price tag. But it is simply heavenly. a different kind. Exploring in Tanzania that are off the worth every cent. Botswana Namibia offers ardent the dense rainforest region, beaten track and a lot less attracts adventure travellers 3. Mozambique wildlife lovers and birders a you’ll discover Rwanda’s crowded in season. This includes with a yearning to escape to unique safari experience in unique collection of animal, the magnificent Tarangire, Lake pristine wilderness regions a country that’s renowned plant and bird species. For a Manyara, Mahale and Mikumi that are unfenced, wild and for its vast desert landscapes more traditional Big 5 safari national parks. unspoilt by safari crowds. and fascinating biodiversity. experience, you will love Botswana is endowed with Despite being covered by the the little-known but quite 8. Uganda incredible natural diversity and oldest desert in the world, the spectacular Akagera National is home to a UNESCO World Namib Desert, the wealth of Park. Heritage Site and one of the animal and plant species in the most famous safari destinations country is remarkable. 6. South Africa in Africa, the glorious Okavango The iconic Etosha National Delta. It’s also home to the lesser Park in Namibia is simply known but equally spectacular spectacular. Other regions such Chobe National Park. If you as the mysterious Skeleton cannot get to the Serengeti Coast and the breathtakingly- for the annual wildebeest beautiful Sossusvlei and Uganda is better known for migration, the zebra migration Damaraland are equally gorilla and chimpanzee trekking in Chobe is just as impressive impressive. If you have a but don’t make the mistake After decades of civil war yearning to escape to one of of dismissing it as an African which saw poaching escalate the most remote and isolated safari destination. It boasts at an alarming rate and corners of southern Africa The country offers wildlife untouched wilderness regions wildlife numbers decimated, where animals have adapted and nature lovers a vast array that are simply spectacular and Mozambique is back in to the harshest environment of safari destinations; from the renowned for their outstanding contention as a premier safari on the continent, then a safari iconic Kruger National Park and biodiversity, unique animal destination in southern Africa. tour of Namibia is the perfect world-famous private nature species and prolific bird life. Government and international choice for you. reserves such as Londolozi, The landlocked country in East intervention is driving world- MalaMala and Sabi Sands in the Africa offers adventure travellers acclaimed wildlife conservation north to private game reserves incredible places to explore such Continue to page 13 Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020 13 Travel as the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains, Lake Victoria and Murchison Falls as well as the iconic Bwindi Impenetrable National Forest. Uganda is home to four of the Big 5 (tragically rhino is extinct in Uganda) and the best place to see the famous four are at Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park.

9. Zambia

Zambia for a safari holiday will surprise and delight you. The country doesn’t attract the same attention as Botswana which can The world has changed, offer you the iconic Okavango Delta but wildlife travellers your determination hasn’t. who know and love Zambia will tell you it’s a topnotch safari destination. To everyone using their creativity to still get things done, every day. Wild, unfenced wilderness Your Africanacity inspires us. regions and outstanding wildlife sightings coupled with low tourist numbers and far #WeLoveAfricanacity more palatable price tags on #StaySafe accommodation make Zambia the new up-and-coming safari destination in Africa. The two absa.co.bw most popular safari destinations in Zambia are South Luangwa National Park and Lower Zambezi National Park; best explored on magical boat and canoe cruises.

10. Zimbabwe

Despite political and economic turmoil in the country, you’ll find that the remote areas of Zimbabwe are still some of the best safari destinations in southern Africa. If you’re travelling with US Dollars or Pounds in your pocket, it’s the most affordable country to visit for the safari holiday of your dreams.

The best town to base yourself in is Victoria Falls for a combination of wildlife, birding, fishing, canoeing and the best adrenalin-packed activities in Africa. From there, you are a 10-minute walk from Victoria Falls National Park, a short drive from Stanley Livingstone Private Game Reserve and a scenic two-hour drive from the rejuvenated and now hugely- popular Hwange National Park. If that is not enough, you can book a safari day or overnight tour to Chobe National Park in Botswana.

(Bizcom.) Absa Bank Botswana Limited (registered number UIN BW00001237900) is regulated by the Bank of Botswana. 14 Sports Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020

Sarah Essam The Egyptian Football Queen

In a country that has an endless easy one for the young girl. Sunderland, Derby County and change in the near future, since have a competitive tournament passion for football, she proved She faced many difficulties to Birmingham City. I was about CAF is giving more attention to that gives the whole world a herself as the first Egyptian realize her dream of becoming to sign with Derby County, but women football. I would love good impression about African female footballer to ply her a professional footballer with in the last minute I had a call to play for my country again, women football”, she noted. trade in England. many seeing football as a men from Stoke City manager and and also I hope Egypt will host Sarah won the 2018 Arab The 21 years old Egyptian sport. we met together. He made me Africa Women Cup of Nations Woman of the Year: Achievement wonder, Sarah Essam made “Of course, wearing those change my mind and I signed soon”, stated Sarah. in Sport award by the London headlines back in 2017 when she football boots and walking with for Stoke instead. The talented striker sees better Arabia Organization. She was became the first Arab woman to them in Egypt was a bit hard. “The first days were future for the women game in also part of the commentary play in the FA Women Premier Also when I joined a group of unforgettable. I felt I am living Egypt, has the big clubs decided team for the 2019 Total Africa League. She did not only join boys to play, most of them did my dream, but at the same time to adopt it. “To promote the Cup of Nations in Egypt. Most Stoke City, but went further to not believe that a girl can play I wanted to push myself even game, we need to have women recently she participated finish the season as her side’s football just like them or even more in everything. I did not teams in clubs like Al Ahly and in the launching of CAF top scorer. better. I used to see the funny want to have the feeling that I Zamalek. These are the biggest Women’s Football Strategy, “I had the dream of playing look that they do not want me reached the ultimate, but rather clubs in Africa and I believe #ItsTimeItsNow. abroad from the very start and to play because I could ruin their to feel hungry for more. I still they have to play their role in “My message to African I knew I have to work hard. I game. But this only made me feel the same,” she explained. order to put our game in a much women footballers is simple; started playing in an academy insist more to play and change Sarah does not only play better place”. believe in you and never compare and my parents used to pay their way of thinking”, she football in England, but she Sarah’s idea coincides with yourself to others. If people say for my training. I took it very added. also studies Civil Engineering. CAF launching the Women you can’t do something, make seriously and followed my After playing basketball for And in the same time she still Champions League in the this a motivation. Never say it’s coach’s words, and one day I some time, Sarah decided to thinks of the women football continent, which she sees as too late because you can always was chosen to join the junior concentrate more on football. future back in her country. a brilliant perspective. work harder. Struggling means team which means I do not And finally, she finally realized “It was a great honor for me to “We have many talents in you are on the right track so have to pay anymore. Then I her dream of being the first represent my country in such a Africa and having a Champions never give up and keep going became the youngest player Egyptian woman to play abroad. young age. Unfortunately, our League is something we until you make yourself proud”, to be chosen for the first team. “In 2017 I was playing for Wadi national team didn’t take part deserve. But I believe there concluded The Egyptian Queen, My plan was going on the right Degla and one day I had an offer in international football since should be specific criteria for as nicknamed by her club Stoke direction.” to do trials in England with 2016. I’m optimistic this will the participating clubs, so as to City fans. (TheConversation) Knowing well what she wants to do, Sarah started training three times daily! She continued training with the academy team while also having sessions with the Junior and First teams at the same time. “People called me crazy, but I didn’t care. The coaches told me to train with the first team only, but I refused as I needed to train more. My dream was to have a chance in Europe.” Her hard work started to bear fruits when she was recalled to the Egypt U-17 national team, then became one of the youngest players to don the “Lady Pharaohs” shirt.

But the journey was not an Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020 Sports 15

“Our objective is to develop women’s football and spread its practice in all the regions of the kingdom,” said FRMF president Fouzi Lekjaa during the presentation of the convention. “This is an important step to allow female talents to practice this popular sport in good conditions and to give them the opportunity to start and pursue their professional career.” Also, the new plan aims at supporting the management of clubs on the administrative and financial level through training and support provided by the Technical Directorate and the FRMF’s Department of Finance. Women’s football will be entitled to funding of up to $130,000 for the top flight league clubs and $86,000 for the second division to Morocco signs convention to uplift support the remuneration of players and technical staff on a monthly basis. FRMF women’s football women’s football director and head coach of The Royal Moroccan practice in all the regions of the technical staff on a monthly and Youth Championship. the national team, Kelly Football Federation (FRMF) kingdom,” said FRMF president basis. Lindsey, describes this plan as has announced the launch Fouzi Lekjaa during the FRMF women’s football The Royal Moroccan a revolution that is taken place a women’s first and second presentation of the convention. director and head coach of Football Federation (FRMF) to promote the female game division professional league “This is an important step the national team, Kelly has announced the launch “We are excited to take on the from next season after signing to allow female talents to Lindsey, describes this plan as a women’s first and second biggest challenges, especially to a new convention with the practice this popular sport in a revolution that is taken place division professional league ensure girls and women have an National Women’s League to good conditions and to give to promote the female game from next season after signing equal opportunity to develop take women’s football to a new them the opportunity to start “We are excited to take on the a new convention with the and grow within the game, and level. and pursue their professional biggest challenges, especially to National Women’s League to to take the time to educate and Apart from the two tiers of career.” ensure girls and women have an take women’s football to a new empower great leaders of the women’s league football, FRMF Also, the new plan aims at equal opportunity to develop level. female game, for now and for will also establish a national supporting the management and grow within the game, and Apart from the two tiers of the future,” Lindsey said. U-17 championship in addition of clubs on the administrative to take the time to educate and women’s league football, FRMF The convention aims to to regional championships for and financial level through empower great leaders of the will also establish a national increase the number of female different youth categories across training and support provided female game, for now and for U-17 championship in addition football practitioners to 90,000 the country. by the Technical Directorate the future,” Lindsey said. to regional championships for by 2024, train 10,000 technical The announcement comes and the FRMF’s Department The convention aims to different youth categories across executives in women’s football barely few weeks after the of Finance. increase the number of female the country. clubs and promote the level of launch of the first ever CAF Women’s football will be football practitioners to 90,000 The announcement comes the National Pro Championship, Women’s Football Strategy, a entitled to funding of up to by 2024, train 10,000 technical barely few weeks after the Regional League Championship plan to take the women’s game $130,000 for the top flight executives in women’s football launch of the first ever CAF and Youth Championship. to the next level. league clubs and $86,000 for clubs and promote the level of Women’s Football Strategy, a “Our objective is to develop the second division to support the National Pro Championship, plan to take the women’s game (Cafonline.) women’s football and spread its the remuneration of players and Regional League Championship to the next level. Kiester returns as Leone Stars coach

Sierra Leone on Monday (10 Mckinstry and Sellas Tetteh from August 2020) appointed former Sweden, Northern Ireland and midfielder John Kiester as Head Ghana respectively. coach of Leone Stars for a second Kiester, who announced his spell. His contract runs until retirement from active football 2023. in 2011, earned 16 caps with the The 49-year-old will be Leone Stars between 1997 and assisted by compatriots Amidu 2003, has experience from the Karim and Dominic Junior Sierra Leonean youth teams Konneh, and have been tasked having handled the U-17 and with guiding the Leone Stars to U-23 teams. the Total Africa Cup of Nations Meanwhile, Abdulai Kaloga Cameroon 2021. Bah has been appointed head “We are here representing coach of the senior national Sierra Leone and we will do our women’s team whilst Victoria job the best way in developing Conteh, who made history by our nation’s football,” Kiester becoming the first female to said at his unveiling in Freetown. coach in the Sierra Leonean top Previously, he was at the flight after being named coach helm of Leone Stars in May 2017 of East End Tigers in December after deputizing for previous 2019, will handle the Women’s coaches Lars O. Matsson, Johnny U-20 team. THE AFRICAN STORY

Sport17 - 23 AUGUST 2020 Echo Newspaper

African Champions on European Grounds

After a long exceptional season Percy Tau (South Africa) and their winning squad, including (Angola) all helped Olympiacos As Young Boys retained their that witnessed long stoppage Clinton Mata (Angola). Gabonese skipper Pierre-Emerick to the title. Swiss Super League title, they had in some countries, and even Aubameuang and Ivoirian Nicolas five African players taking place cancelling competitions in others Cup: Antwerp Pepe. Italy on the road to glory. Cameroonian because of COVID-19 pandemic, Royal Antwerp win Belgian Aubameyang was undoubtedly Cup: Napoli forward Jean-Pierre Nsame was finally the 2019-20 season of Cup for the third time in their Arsenal’s hero, having scored a The Italian south side had two their top hit, scoring 32 goals in as European football was concluded, history; claiming their first trophy brace in the semifinal and another African defenders taking part in many matches and finishing the with some African players leaving since 1992. Eight African players in the final, guiding Mikel Arteta’s their victorious campaign, in season as league’s top scorer. The their mark with their respective participated in the campaign, led side to their season saving title. the form of Senegal’s Kalidou others are Nsame’s compatriot teams. by DR Congo prolific forward Koulibaly and Algeria’s Faouzi Nicolas Moumi Nfamaleu, . The others France Ghoulam. ’s Mohamed Camara, DR Austria were his compatriot Luet Ava League & Cup: Paris Saint Congo’s and Cote League & Cup: Red Bull Dongo, Cameroon trio Didier Germain Portugal d’Ivoire’s Roger Assale who was Salzburg Lamkel Ze, and Martin The French League () League & Cup: Porto loaned to Spanish side Leganes Six African players won the Hongla, Senegal duo Abdoulaye was the first of the top European It was a remarkable season in January. domestic double with Red Seck and Amara Baby, and leagues to be annulled because for FC Porto who claimed the Bull Salzburg this season. Nigerian Junior Pius. of COVID-19 pandemic. The domestic double securing Turkey Cameroonian defender Jerome title was handed on points per Portuguese League and Cup League: Istanbul Basaksehir Onguene, Ghanaian midfielder England game (PPG) rule to Paris Saint titles. The Dragons had six Istanbul Basaksehir celebrated Majeed Ashimeru, Malian duet League: Liverpool Germain (PSG) who were topping African players playing their their maiden Turkish League glory Sekou Koita and Mohamed The Reds ended a 30 years the charts when the league was role in their victorious season, this season. Basaksehir had three Camara, and Zambian pair of drought when they won their stopped. including Senegalese goalkeeper African players to thank in their Enock Mwepu and 19th English title PSG completed the domestic , his compatriot glorious campaign, in the form all played roles in seeing the this season. Under the guidance of double by adding French Cup , Mali’s Moussa of Senegal’s Demba Ba, Nigeria’s Salzburg based side winning Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool finished later on in the season. Two African Marega, Cameroon’s Vincent Azubuike Okechukwu and Cape Austrian and The the season on top, securing the players claimed the double with Aboubakar, Cape Verde’s Ze Verde’s Carlos Ponck. ÖFB-Cup. title with seven games to spare. PSG in the form of Senegal’s Luis and DR Congo’s defender As usual in the past couple of Idrissa Gueya and Cameroon’s , who had a Cup: Belgium seasons, Liverpool are thankful Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting. glorious season finale scoring a Trabzonspor won their 9th League: Club Brugge to the efforts of their top stars, brace in the Cup final to see Porto title, with the help The Belgian First Division A including Egypt’s Mohamed Greece completing the double. of African players including season was cancelled due to Salah and Senegal’s Sadio Mane. League: Olympiacos Morocco’s Manuel da Costa, COVID-19 outbreak, but it was Naby Keita (Guinea) and Joel Olympiacos extended their Scotland Senegal’s Badou Ndiaye, Ghana’s decided that Club Brugge would Matip (Cameroon) complete in Greek Super League, League: Celtic Caleb Ekuban and Nigeria’s be handed the title, having topped the Africans in the Champions’ winning their 45th title this Celtic won their 51st Scottish . Nigerian the charts with 70 points, 15 lineup. season. On their road to glory, Premier League title, with 80 duet John Obi Mikel and Ogenyi more than second placed Gent Salah scored 19 goals, one more 9 African players took part with points from 30 games, 13 more Onazi took part in some games when the season was annulled. A than Mane in the League. The the Red Whites, although some than arch rivals Rangers. before leaving the club in mid- total of 11 African players had the African Liverpool quartet capped of them only appeared in the first Ivoirian forward Vakoun season. champions’ medals with Brugge, an amazing season that saw The half of the season. Issouf Bayo took place in The including Senegalese quartet of Reds also winning UEFA Super Algerian duo Hillal Soudani Celts campaign, scorig twice Ukraine Amdou Sagna, Krepin Diatta, Cup and FIFA Club World Cup. and Yassine Benzia, Senegal’s in 16 appearances, while his Cup: Dynamo Kyiv Mbaye Diagne and Youssouph duet Ousseynou Ba and Pape compatriot Ismaila Soro who Giants Dynamo Kyiv claimed Badji, Ivoirian duo Simon Deli Cup: Arsenal Abou Cisse, along with Mady joined in January did not feature their 12th title, and Odilon Kossounou, and The Gunners extended their Camara (Guinea), Youssef El in any game. with Ghana’s Mohamed Kadiri Nigerian duet David Okereke record in FA Cup winning Arabi (Morocco), Ahmed Hassan and Nigerian Benito making the and Emmanuel Dennis. The others their 14th title this season. “Koka” (Egypt), Yassine Meriah Switzerland squad during the season. are Sofyan Amrabat (Morocco), Arsenal had two Africans in (Tunisia) and Bruno Gaspar League: Young Boys