PAN AFRICAN VISIONS MARKETING AFRICAN SUCCESS STORIES & MORE MAG 1020 Vol III, OCT. 2020. www.panafricanvisions.com

Brazil-Africa Mozambique: Cameroon: Forum 2020 In Presidents At “war” Catholic Bishops Sound Côte d›Ivoire: The Ghosts Of The Past Focus Alarm Bells PAN-AFRICAN PRO-AFRICAN

www.centurionlg.com Contents PAN AFRICAN VISIONs CONTENTS The Burden of Leadership At 60: As Nigeria Goes, ______2 AfCFTA - Former Liberian Minister B. Elias Shoniyin______27 so does Africa______2 French Court Faces a 'Stolen' African Artwork Dilemma _____ 31

Nigeria At 60: A Birthday That Could ______3 On Bakassi Cameroon Denies Owing Any Financial Compensation to Nigeria______33 Have Been Better______3 Rwanda: Will UN, other International Bodies rescue Paul Rusesa- Ramaphosa Calls on World Leaders to do more in tackling Chal- bagina from terrorism charges?______34 lenges Facing Ordinary People ______6 Sustained Efforts Needed To Boast Brazil-Africa Relations -Prof Mozambique :Former and Current President At "war".______9 Joao Monte______35 Malawi: President Chakwera Faces Litmus Political Test In Ap- Health Expert Praises Africa's Fight Against Coronavirus_____ 39 pointments ______11 Aid for Sex Rampant in Uganda: UN Report ______40 D.R.Congo: Growing Calls To Expel Rwandan Ambassador ___ 13 60 Years After Independence Nigeria's Energy Industry Hasn't Kenya: Political Bigwigs Creating Unnecessary Tension As Elec- Realized Its Promise — But It's Getting Closer ______42 tions Near______14 More Than 2,400 Candidates Apply For One Role As Competition Cameroon: Violent Crackdown on Regime Change Protesters __ 15 For Jobs In Africa Stiffens______45 Côte d'Ivoire: The Ghosts Of The Past______18 Increase Investment in Mini grid Electricity to Get Africa out of Cameroon:Operation "Bamenda Clean"; cleansing Young Cameroo- Darkness______47 nians, jobs ______21 Zimbabwe's Capital City Pomona Dumpsite Fire In Harare Posing Cameroon Anglophone Crisis: "The Worst May Still Be Ahead"- Serious Air Pollution And A Health Threat To Residents______48 Catholic Bishops Warn______22 The Basic Need Of The Cocoa Farmer Is Not Price Increment; But African Hero Gone: A Look at some of George Bizos; Famous Cas- Access To Basic Amenities.______49 es ______24 FECAFOOT vs LFPC Tussle: What Future for Cameroon Foot- African countries should structure post covid plans around the ball?______51

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

PAV - APR. 2019 - MAG 0419 Vol 3 1 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa The Burden of Leadership At 60: As Nigeria Goes, so does Africa By Ajong Mbapndah L n 1st October 2020, going through. there are many iconic the Federal Republic of As President Buhari moments that Nigeria can ONigeria clocked 60 years said in his Independence build on, is it President of Independence. Coming at a time Day speech, the richest Goodluck Jonathan a when the country like the rest of Africa resource Nigeria has is its sitting President calling and the world was grappling with the people. The same can be to concede to opposition challenges of COVID, this milestone said about Africa, but are challenger Muhammadu may have been lost to many especially Nigerians conscious of Buhari who defeated non-Nigerians. Still, for a country this, are Africans conscious him in the high stakes of Nigeria’s stature, the momentous of this? If Nigerians are, elections of 2016?And occasion calls for celebration, it why would the choice of despite their differences, calls for reflections, and it is equally political leadership be how many times have we auspicious that Nigeria is reminded determined by your affinity seen President Buhari and of the leadership burden that it has to the Muslim North or the his predecessor appear in Africa and the world . Indeed, been Christian South instead of in public together ? The the biggest black nation on earth competence and aptitude optics matter. comes with more than its fair share of to do the job? If Nigerians Talking of leadership, responsibilities, and obligations, and are aware, why should President Buhari is in at 60, it is about time Nigeria steps up ethnic affiliations still be a unique position to its game. so prominent? leave a lasting imprint In 1960 when Nigeria had its This is not only a on leadership in Nigeria independence, the country had a Nigerian syndrome, and Africa. He was in population of circa 45 million. Today, take a look at the ethnic Ajong Mbapndah L, Managing Editor the spheres of power at a its population is in excess of 200 background of African relatively young age, he million. Endowed with abundantly leaders and that of those who occupy done better. Even when the people came to power in the 80s through a rich resources, Nigeria has all that both the most strategic and most are willing to, the toxic realities military coup and was ousted by one. it takes to amply discharge the plum positions and you will see a of domestic politics are a serious He knows the perils. He contested for leadership role that it probably did not link. Yet the geniuses in Nigeria, and impediment. Elections permanently Presidential elections multiple times bargain for, but that is indisputably the geniuses in Africa know no tribes, challenged, never ending ethnic and and cried “wolf” wrongly or rightly hers in Africa, and on the global stage gender or religion. Aliko Dangote, religious feuds, endemic corruption each time the results did not favor for black people. a Northern Muslim is the pride of that even President Buhari whose because of rigging. Finally, in 2016, When Nigeria turned 50, we opined Nigeria and Africa in the world of probity and rigor has been touted in elections billed by analysts as a that the fortunes of Africa were business. In the world, he has his is unable to arrest, and the tainted make or break moment for Nigeria, inextricably tied to Nigeria. If Nigeria place amongst the global business image of the country from 419 scams, he was elected President with a does well, Africa does well, if Nigeria elite. The literary wizardry of Chinua yahoo boys and others have not done sitting incumbent conceding to him. fails Africa fails . Leadership is no Achebe who is Igbo, or that of Nobel the country any favors. That was one of the finest moments easy feat, but from the historic roles Laureate Wole Soyinka a Yoruba is Just like Nigeria rallied Africa in to in Nigeria’s history and something played in the fight against apartheid, of universal acclaim. How can you success in defence of Dr Adesina and he ought to build on. Serving his last the resolution of conflicts in Liberia, talk about the finest in the world of the integrity of the AfDB, so too should mandate, there is no bigger stake that and Sierra Leone, Nigeria has showed writing today without talking about Nigeria be able to speak up for Africa leaving behind a lasting legacy. From glimpses of what its leadership could the venerable Chimamanda Ngozi when there are xenophobic attacks defeating Boko Haram, to fighting bring. Adichie? Talk of leadership beyond on fellow Africans in South Africa, corruption and the general state of At some point in Africa’s checkered Nigerian shores and people like Dr when constitutional term limits security in Nigeria, many feel that he post-independence history, coups Akinwumi Adesina, President of the are abrogated in Guinea and Cote has to do better. were en vogue, with Nigeria setting AfDB, Mohammed Sanusi Barkindo, d’Ivoire. When it comes to speaking The challenges have been many, the tempo. It may sound simplistic, Secretary General of OPEC, are for Africa and black people, Nigeria is but that Nigeria has weathered the but one cannot just see a coincidence prominent actors on the global stage. saddled with this responsibility. For odds to remain as a country is a feat in that fact that for the lengthy period Talk of talent and Nigeria has this role to be effective Nigeria must that deserves celebration on its own. that the military reigned in Nigeria, it it in abundance, definitely not a get its domestic act together. It is not something anyone should was the same in a number of African commodity that will be in short supply A daunting task it is, maybe the take for granted. From the joy Nigeria countries. Similarly, the struggles there anytime soon. Putting it at the expectations are too high, and if this is gave Africa as the first side to give the that Nigeria has been through to service of the country, at the service the case, it is because the potential of continent a gold medal at the Olympic bolster its democracy are the same of the collective good, at the service Nigeria is not lost to many. In addition games in 1996, to the worldwide fame that many African countries of been of Africa is something that could be to some of the examples cited earlier, that Nigeria music has brought for 2 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs the continent, to Nollywood making out and Nigeria gets the leadership In addition to perspectives on Africa, a look at Cameroon’s cascade its mark in the world of movies, of all its people, for all is people and Nigerian at 60, we bring you a of crisis , a new Presidential feud Nigeria deserves respect, support by all its people it deserves. When preview of the upcoming Brazil Africa in Mozambique, a tribute to iconic and encouragement . Hopefully the Nigeria gets it right, Africa will follow forum, a development expert take on Lawyer George Bizos and more. political piece of the puzzle is sorted suit and get right. post COVID-19 recovery plans for Happy reading!! Nigeria At 60: A Birthday That Could Have Been Better By Richard Mammah t really should not have happened Garba Shehu. like that. However, on the eve of Addressing concerns from Ithe flagging off of the celebration the British parliament that the of Nigeria’s 60th Independence Buhari administration was being anniversary, Islamist insurgents discriminatory to Christians in the attacked the convoy of one of the country, Shehu debunked the claim nation’s popularly regarded sub- overall but conceded that the nation national leaders, Governor Babagana was facing some challenges. Zulum of Borno State. By the time the Speaking also at the inter- dust had settled, almost three dozen denominational service convened members of the Governor’s train had to flag off the Independence been felled. And to make matters celebrations, Vice President Osinbajo worse, it was the second time in the affirmed that indeed Nigeria was past few weeks that the Governor was in trouble and needed, like was the

being attacked. President Muhammadu Buhari and wife Aisha, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, case in the days of Nehemiah in For many Nigerians, the attack on House Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila, and former Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Bible times, prayers and intercession Yakubu Gowon were part of the Independence Day festivities. Photo courtesy Zulum epitomizes the governance to save it. For his forthrightness, challenges that the country is mired lost out, and also gave up its only critical elections in Ondo and Lagos Osinbanjo was to be tongue-lashed by in. And it brought to the fore once political toehold in the oil-rich Niger States where it would be tested again. the Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF. again the fact that the resolution Delta region. But the horses had already bolted. of the nation’s security challenges, Analyst’s permutations are that the Scoring home goals which had been taken as given, with spate of crises within the APC could In the midst of this tense situation, The economy is a lot of the the emergence of the retired military undermine President Buhari’s desire and much unlike what had been the challenge General, Muhammadu Buhari as to keep the party together, and in a trend before now, even government Nigeria’s woes are connected to President of Africa’s most populous winning mode too, after he concludes representatives are beginning to its economic boom and bust cycles. nation in 2015, was not quite a done his constitutionally permitted second publicly admit that there is indeed But this is also in turn connected to deal yet. term in office in 2023. trouble. One such recent instance its tumultuous political trajectory. In But even before then, there are two involved presidential spokesman, the pre-Independence period and the Scale of the problem immediate post-independence era, Nigeria today is not short of critics relatively healthy competition among and opposition elements that would the regions ensured that there was readily castigate the government a broadly diversified economy that for what it deems to be its failings. was steadily accelerating and indeed But the scale of the challenge in the primed to be a world-beater. This country today is such that even bigger burst of prosperity was however very voices are joining in the fray. From closely connected to corresponding former President Olusegun Obasanjo efforts to entrench and sustain a to Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka, competitive federal order in the almost no week passes now in the country. When distortions began to country without the administration appear in this political framework, getting a high-powered rebuke. and upon the further discovery of It was in the heat of this state of oil, the nation, which had now lost declining fortunes for the ruling All its federalist essence, went on to Progressives Congress, APC that fight a civil war, capitulated into crucial sub-national elections were President Buhari inspects a guard of honour in Abuja at an essentially unitary frame, and held in Edo State. By the time the the Independence Day celebrations .Photo credit David Oma, began also to lose its broad economic Xinhua. results were declared, the ruling party competitiveness. Even when the flow PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 3 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

Notably, this tendency of Nigeria to exert itself on behalf of the West African sub-region and the broader African continent has long been demonstrated. From the Niger missile crisis, through the Congo crisis to the decolonization of the rest of the continent, to battling civil war in Liberia and Sierra Leone, Nigeria has been its brother’s keeper through the years. But former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Dr Christopher Kolade says that though Nigeria’s contributions to the continent was not in any doubt, however, resolving internal challenges and ensuring defter management of the nation’s potentials and resources would produce even far greater results here and in other areas: ‘There is a fundamental philosophy which says you cannot make any Nigeria is not a country for Mr. President, any ruling or opposition party but a country for all of us ,President Buhari said in his message one better and to do what you do not possess. That is very important of oil wealth continued to guarantee the beach where there were no roads invested in England and I think that for us to remember. So as we carry cash to the government and the and streets, only a path. There was no all in all, Nigeria remains my best.’ out our roles in different places, we top ranks of the elite, the fact of Victoria Island and Ikoyi was reserved should look inward from time to time the commodity’s sparse overall for the whites. The Southwest area The African conundrum and question our own credibility in contribution to more critical variables was not built then, and there wasn’t Indeed, Nigeria’s natural offering services in these places. Let like employment and GDP expansion, any Lekki, Ibeju-Lekki and so on endowments remain generally me remind you that several years ago, was now a major challenge. as we know them now. When you attractive and this much continues African countries that were becoming Even in the current democratic consider these, you will see that a to be broadly appreciated by many in independent actually came to Nigeria order, this disjuncture has not abated lot has changed. If you were going to the continent. to borrow ideas and even to borrow and has in turn led to a frenetic Epe then, it was like going to another At the close of September for people to develop their own systems. angling for the restructuring of the city entirely. Now, almost all those example, the South Africa-born In certain countries, we had Nigerian federation and diversification of the locations are built up. Again, when Secretary General of the African lawyers who became chief judges; we economy as a means of lessening you look towards the other side - from Continental Free Trade Area, AfCFTA, had all kinds of things like that. Just intra-ethnic and religious tension, Orile to Badagry – it has also almost Wamkele Mene was in Abuja to hold cast your mind around this situation saving the nation and taking it been completely built up. We are talks with the Nigerian authorities and ask yourself, in how many places further towards becoming a solid and talking of developments across well on the need for the country to ratify are we still being asked to come and prosperous African anchor. over 100 kilometers and yet you are the landmark agreement and latch on help them develop new institutions? still within the city of Lagos. When fully onto the ambitious project. With That shows you that we are no more as Not entirely a gloomy tale you look at these, you will know that Nigeria having the single biggest GDP credible as we used to be. All societies To be sure, Nigeria’s story is not there has been some progress and number in the continent yet, AfCFTA are moving on, and it seems to people entirely a gloomy affair. Yes, it has achievement. would in a sense be somewhat outside that we are not making the been battered but it has also had its When you look at Lagos State today handicapped without its involvement, kind of progress that we showed at basic ‘day in the sun.’ for example, about 2 years ago, it even if temporarily. the beginning. So, enough with this One person who knows this quite was said that it was the 5th largest Clearly, when it comes to the disconnect between national policy well is the industrialist, Prince economy in Africa, and maybe they ranking of states in the African and foreign policy. If we want to offer Samuel Adedoyin. And he helps us have now dropped at this time to continent, few exceed Nigeria. For ourselves as credible, we must have a put it in context: the 7th. And note that it is only a city example, the nation that plays host to credibility that is built at home.’ ‘I will tell you about the success within Nigeria. If we determine to the continent’s largest aggregation of If Nigeria is to get back on the path which Nigeria has achieved. For do more and to believe in ourselves black people is currently engaged in of its vision, mission and purpose, it instance, when we were young, you and are determined to succeed and troubleshooting in Mali as well as in is important that its leaders listen to needed to rent a bicycle for two kobo also believe in the country, I think helping out with putting out fires and voices of wisdom like this. to go to Ikoyi to see the white people we can achieve much more. I have providing support for other nations in eating, or even to Victoria Island and tried Europe, I have lived in London, notably, the West African sub-region. 4 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs

PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 5 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa Ramaphosa Calls on World Leaders to do more in tackling Challenges Facing Ordinary People By Prince Kurupati outh African president Cyril Ramaphosa recently added Shis voice to the 75th United Nations General Assembly debate which was for the first time in history conducted virtually. This necessitated by the ravaging corona virus outbreak which has rendered international travel almost redundant. During his address, Ramaphosa said that 75 years later after the formation of the United Nations, peace, unity and equality are still elusive in the world. “Today we battle the fires of a deadly pandemic, of racism and prejudice, of violence, war and extremism and, above all, of poverty and inequality.” Just as the world leaders in 1945 were faced with the insurmountable task of creating an institution that would pave the way for poverty eradication, global unification and equality across all boards, world President Ramaphosa wants world leaders to do more in ensuring that coming generations leaders of today are also faced by inherit a world that is peaceful, unified, and guarantees equality to everyone across all spectrums the same challenge. Adding to the challenge is the novel corona virus have been threatened and others even the emergence of the pandemic and the effects of the pandemic. He pandemic, a pandemic which in the destroyed. that is a good sign for the future. called on the suspension of interest words of the South African president However, despite all the negatives “We (world leaders) have formed payments on Africa’s external and has “cost nearly a million lives… that have been ushered in by international partnerships to ensure public debt while at the same time deepened human suffering and the pandemic, the South African there is equitable access to medical calling upon the United Nations to uprooted communities, destroyed president said the best thing to do supplies…Many nations have set lift the economic sanctions placed livelihoods and plunged economies for everyone at the moment is to look up extensive social support systems on Zimbabwe and Sudan so as to into turmoil.” at ways of restoring normalcy while to protect citizens whose jobs, help these two countries to cope and In light of the challenges that are at the same time looking at recovery businesses and livelihoods have been respond adequately to the pandemic. being experienced globally, Cyril strategies post Covid-19. On this threatened.” This solidarity according Ramaphosa called on world leaders to front, Ramaphosa said the best route to Ramaphosa demonstrates “the On Equality and Poverty do a lot more in ensuring that coming is to encourage and foster the spirit heights that can be attained when we Eradication generations inherit a world that is of friendship and solidarity. Only work in the spirit of friendship and In calling for a fast recovery post peaceful, unified, and guarantees when the world builds a common solidarity.” Covid-19, Ramaphosa said the biggest equality to everyone across all and inclusive spirit of friendship and Still on the subject of Covid-19, obstacle the world faces is poverty spectrums. Below, we highlight the solidarity can there be prospects of Ramaphosa did acknowledge that and inequality. “This pandemic main points drawn from Ramaphosa’s good things to come. the pandemic has inevitably affected has highlighted the urgency with address to the UN General Assembly. Making reference to the words of Africa’s developmental aspirations which we must strive to meet all the On Recovery post COVID-19 Nelson Mandela, Ramaphosa said, “It as resources had to be redirected to Sustainable Development Goals, but Cyril Ramaphosa did acknowledge is human solidarity, the concern for fighting the pandemic thus setting more importantly Goal 1 – to end that the novel corona virus pandemic the other that must be at the centre of back efforts to provide housing, poverty in all its forms everywhere.” has caused havoc in all communities the values by which we all live.” health care, water and sanitation He went on to state that for until we across the world. Lives have been lost, The South African president said and education. The President thus eradicated global poverty, the world human suffering has been deepened; that he is impressed by the fact that called for greater access to affordable will always fail at addressing other some communities have been acts of solidarity have been existent credit for developing countries so pertinent challenges. uprooted while many livelihoods in many parts of the world since as to cushion the countries from On this front, Ramaphosa called 6 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Nations Security Council. Ramaphosa said the country has used its position in the Security Council to propagate the ‘silence the guns’ message. “We (South Africa) have used our tenure to promote international peace and security by advocating for the peaceful settlement of disputes and inclusive dialogue.” He said the efforts by South Africa in the Security Council have led to “improved peace and security in the Darfur region of Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, Mali and the Central African Republic.” However, while acknowledging the good things that the Security Council has done in fostering peace and unity in different countries, Ramaphosa Looters run off an alleged foreign owned shop in Turffontein,Johannesburg, in 2019. The called for the reformation of image of South Africa continues to be heavily tainted with xenophic attacks. the Council stating “the current for the expansion of “economic by the #BlackLivesMatter Movement. Ramaphosa said more needs to be composition of the Security Council opportunities to all people around He said the movement is not just done to grant equal status to women does not reflect the world in which the world, but most especially to pertinent in other corners of the and girls across all spectrums of life. we live…It is only through a reformed the young, to women and to the world but also in South Africa which He said his country which is a member and inclusive UN Security Council vulnerable people in the world.” He for long battled with apartheid. of the UN’s Generation Equality that we will be able to collectively stated that the scourge of corruption “As a country that has known too campaign and has prioritized the resolve some of the world’s most which has destroyed the moral well the anguish of institutionalized eradication of gender-based violence protracted conflicts.” fabric of societies pushing some racism, South Africa supports the and femicide. He also said South Still on the issue of peace and families into absolute poverty must demands for swift action against Africa is looking to adopt an African security, Ramaphosa concluded his be decisively dealt with. Only when racism, whether committed by Union Convention on Violence address calling for the end “to the these measures have been taken can individuals, companies, officials or against Women during the course of illegal occupation of Western Sahara the world ever become free of hunger, a state…South Africa calls on the the year. and for the Palestinian people’s disease, insecurity and war. United Nations to spare no effort right to self-determination.” He also On the issue of inequality, the to end prejudice and intolerance in On South Africa’s Inclusion called “for the lifting of the economic South African president said the year all its forms and wherever it may be as part of the United Nations embargo and blockade of Cuba.” 2020 will always be remembered as found.” Security Council the year when everyone looked in the As the world celebrates the 25th South Africa is currently serving face of racism with the sole intention Anniversary of the adoption of its second year as an elected non- of stamping it out. This necessitated the Beijing Platform for Action, permanent member of the United

PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 7 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

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8 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Mozambique :Former and Current President At "war". By Jorge Joaquim

ormer Mozambican President Armando Guebuza has reacted Fangrily to a request to speak to the country’s Attorney General, in a statement he made to the Council of State and which has been leaked to the media. Guebuza is named as a ‘Third Party’ in a claim being made by the Mozambique government against Credit Suisse and three former Credit Suisse bankers; Lebanese businessman Iskandar Safa; and five companies related to his Privinvest group. Mozambique wants the London Commercial Court to rule guarantees backing loans arranged by Credit Suisse to Mozambican state-owned entities, signed by the former finance minister, invalid — and to order the defendants to pay Mozambique compensation for damages caused by the scandal and resulting financial crisis caused by the deals. Relations between President Nyusi and his predecessor Armando Guebuza have gone south. The ‘Third Parties’ in the claim — who also include former Deputy include sitting President Filipe Nyusi Mozambique’s Attorney General, As a member of the Council of Finance Minister Isaltina Lucas, and in the case, and has enquired with or Procuradoria Geral da República State, the summons by the PGR must the former President’s son Armando the Mozambican authorities as to his (PGR), to interview Guebuza ahead of be approved by the Council of State Ndambi Guebuza, have been included immunity. his possibly being called to testify in before Guebuza needs to honour in the claim by Credit Suisse as parties The Council of State was convened, London. The PGR’s request comes in it. In his statement to the meeting, it may seek indemnification from. virtually, on 15 September, to light of new and highly compromising seen by Guebuza accuses the PGR of Credit Suisse also reportedly wants to discuss a request from the office of evidence. citing him in the London case — and says it is “strange that our Attorney General has preferred to cross sub- Saharan Africa, the Sahara desert, the Mediterranean sea, continental Europe and the Channel, to obtain clarifications from a national citizen resident here.” “When we joined the Mozambique Liberation Front, in hiding,” Guebuza continued, “we had the noblest aspiration to see our homeland, the homeland of heroes, freed from the colonial yoke, guaranteeing the reaffirmation of our Mozambicanity, respect for the rights and freedoms and the well-being of all Mozambicans. And this aspiration remains intact.” Guebuza’s intervention lays bare the animosity between him and the regime of President Filipe Nyusi — describing the PGR’s latest request Former President Guebuza feels he is unfairly treated by his predecessor. as “a continuation of an attempted PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 9 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

political assassination” which gained “tonic” after a speech he gave last month at the Eduardo Mondlane University in Maputo. The speech included strong criticisms of the Nyusi government. “Our sovereignty is in question. … We’ve stopped believing in ourselves. We had the Renamo situation for 16 years, and two more years, but we didn’t stop believing that Mozambique was ours, and that we would win. Now voices are starting to appear, that doubt that,” Guebuza said. He also lists a number of occasions when he has felt mistreated by by the PGR — having found out through the press in 2017, for example, that the PGR had demanded access to his banking records; and an instance in 2018 when the PGR asked him to answer questions about the offshore security deals financed by Credit Suisse and supplied by Privinvest. Attorney General Beatriz Buchili was appointed by President Guebuza in 2014. On that occasion, Guebuza he is a Third Party subject to a ‘Part António Muchanga says deferred to President Nyusi to decide 20’ claim, which is a counterclaim or Guebuza is reaping what he has The ‘hidden debts” case whether he should answer the PGR’s additional claim that defendants can sown The ‘hidden debts’ are related to questions. Nyusi replied that he make. It is the bank that requested Renamo MP António Muchanga loans worth $2.2 billion (€2 billion) should — to which Guebuza replied the inclusion of Guebuza and the said Armando Guebuza is “reaping taken out between 2013 and 2014 in turn that the matter ought to go other Third Parties. Without the what he has sown”, following the with the British subsidiaries of the before the Council of State, though background of Guebuza’s animosity former president›s complaint that investment banks Credit Suisse he grudgingly agreed to answer the to the current regime — including the the Attorney General›s office is acting and VTB by the Mozambican state questions anyway. In his statement, Attorney General whom he appointed in a political manner in the case of companies Proindicus, Ematum and Guebuza also condemned the PGR — it would appear natural that the so-called hidden debts. Guebuza MAM. for not taking seriously an alleged PGR and Guebuza would confer ahead himself appointed the Attorney The loans were secretly endorsed attempt to poison him and his family, of a trial in which they are both pitted General, Beatriz Buchili, in 2014, by the government of the Liberation which happened in 2018. against Credit Suisse. But Guebuza because — Muchanga says — she was Front of Mozambique (Frelimo, the Guebuza said he would still instead sees his real enemy as the a suitable figure to carry out political party in power since independence), meet with the PGR to answer their PGR. There have been persistent expediencies — including the episode led by Guebuza, without the questions. The Council of State rumours since Guebuza was toppled of the convening of the Council of knowledge of parliament or the itself did not make a decision on it, from the leadership of Frelimo in 2015 State on 19 July that year, in order Administrative Court. with the Frelimo members asking that there is an internal war going to remove Muchanga›s immunity, Among the 19 defendants arrested for more time. The three Renamo on within Frelimo. This statement arrest him and humiliate him. in Mozambique are figures close to members abstained on the question. from Guebuza confirms that — and Muchanga said that Guebuza was the former President, such as one The Council could be reconvened in so Mozambique presumably cannot lucky, because he should have suffered of his sons, Ndambi Guebuza, and October. count on his support in trying to win the same indignity as Muchanga who his secretary, Inês Moaine. The The Commercial Court in London its case against Credit Suisse, despite was handcuffed and arrested just Mozambican Public Prosecutor expects to hear the case in January his protestations that the loyalty to after the end of the Council of State accuses the defendants of criminal 2021, having in July included Safa as Mozambique that caused him to join session. “Armando Emílio Guebuza association, blackmail, taking bribes, a defendant, and having limited the Frelimo in the first place remains has to eat the bread that he helped the embezzlement, abuse of position or various defendant’s rights to appeal. intact. devil to knead,» Muchanga said in a function, violation of management Guebuza seems to have Guebuza was first interrogated by press conference. rules, and forgery. misunderstood who is citing him in the PGR and the special Parliamentary It has taken five years since Guebuza the London proceedings. If it were Commission of Inquiry (CPI) after the left office to force his interrogation, Mozambique — the Claimant — then emergence of the secret debt in 2016. but marks how much his power he would be a Defendant. In fact, within Frelimo has declined.

Call / eMail Us Tel:2404292177, email: [email protected], [email protected] 10 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Malawi: President Chakwera Faces Litmus Political Test In Appointments By Joseph Dumbula s his initial hundred days in office elapse, Malawi APresident Lazarus Chakwera is facing a huge protest over a number of decisions most of which involve his official appointments. Chakwera came to power in June having won a historical fresh presidential poll, seeing out Peter Mutharika who was president from 2014 and was declared winner in 2019 poll which Chakwera contested in court. However, 65 year old Chakwera is facing an uproar which started from the time he appointed a list of ministers, some of who were close relations, including Malawi Congress Party Vice President Sidik Mia and his wife, Abida as cabinet ministers. But, in a latest wave of political President Chakwera has received criticisms over political appointments. Photo AFP. questions, he is now facing protests she is protesting the fact that women Political analyst Wonderful pieces of legislations meant to reduce over the appointments of board of have been overlooked. Mkhutche tells Pan African Visions presidential powers, subsequently directors for the Southern African The organizations she leads, that by far, the president is rewarding indicating that he is the people’s nation’s statutory corporations. Gender Coordination Network along those who toiled during the campaign President. Gender activists are slamming the with other organizations are now to his win in June. Chakwera›s regime immediate president for just placing 6 women asking Chakwera to rescind the « The appointments are seen to mandate has seen a number of arrests out of the 67 appointments. appointments. include Tonse Alliance partners. of allies to former ruling Democratic So far, Gender Activist Barbra However, Chakwera says he respects However, as it is, focus needs to be Progressive Party members. Banda and youth rights advocate the choice made by some member on how the people will deliver in For example, Mutharika›s security Charles Kajoloweka and renowned of the civil society organizations not their various capacities. The activists aide Norman Chisale is facing heft law scholar Edge Kanyogolo have to take up positions in the recent are right, Malawi is a signatory corruption charges and an attempted turned down their appointments. parastatals appointments for them to to international agreements that murder case. For instance, Barbara Banda says concentrate on their mandates. promote gender equality. Even Former Minister of Information more, we have the Gender Henry Mussa has also been arrested Equality Act which needs for allegedly stealing generators adherence. Women need and computers while in office. He is not to be left behind». He currently on bail. said. Hot on the list, however, is a case At the moment, the involving business mogul Thom current government has Mpinganjira who allegedly bribed unleashed a new wave judges that heard the landmark of change into issuance elections petition case from last year. of national loans and It is the same poll that led to the agriculture subsidy nullification of results in which programs which target Mutharika was declared winner the rural poor population before Chakwera who went into an through a MK2.2 Trillion alliance with current Vice President budget. Saulos Chilima party, UTM and Also, through his maiden other parties including Malawi’s State of the Nation Address, first female President Joyce Banda, Chakwera hinted that he Peoples Party. Former Minister of Information Henry Mussa is among officials from the previous administration facing persecution is working on preparing PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 11 PANC AFRICANH VISIONsICAGO Inside Africa Thrice weekly to over 54 Destinations in Africa

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of Africa, Ethiopian offers the most convenient schedules to more cities in Africa than any other cwarrwier w. .ethiopianairlines.com www.ethiopianairlines.com 12 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs D.R.Congo: Growing Calls To Expel Rwandan Ambassador By Jean-Pierre Afadhali he fragile relations between Rwanda and The Democratic TRepublic of Congo could be further weakened amid continued calls from civil society organizations to expel Rwanda’s Ambassador over comments deemed in denial of massacres documented in a UN report ten years ago. For about a month now, prominent citizens’ movements in DRC have continued to hold demonstrations and sit-ins to denounce recent statements made by Rwanda’s Ambassador Vincent Karega on the South Kivu massacres with demands for his expulsion. The rising protests signal a weakening of diplomatic relations despite recent efforts that followed the election of President Felix Tshisekedi to strengthen the Great Lakes countries’ ties. Tensions rose in August following a controversial tweet that has since been deleted. The Rwandan Ambassador Vincent Karega during a recent visit to President Tshisekedi . Many Congolese diplomat was responding to a want him out of the country Congolese citizen on the massacre “The government is hesitating Habyarimana in the war against now it is a very nice way of turning allegedly committed by Rwandan to take the appropriate measure rebels that had base in Uganda. the victim into perpetrator,” stated army in DRC. Ambassador Karega on Mr. Karega. One can ask: is he “In fact the first forces that entered President Kagame recently “so I tweeted that those accusations were an irreplaceable diplomat for the Rwanda were from DRC that was then don’t understand the nonsense about a “simplistic narrative”, “slander” relations between DRC and Rwanda?” Zaire under Mobutu,” said Kagame in mapping report, it was written by and “propaganda”, comments that posed Nicole Kavira, a Congolese a recent televised interview. some people who were acting on angered many Congolese activists. activist in an interview. The massacres were documented behalf of some societies that tell lies The Ambassador was summoned by While the recent tension appears to in a UN report called ‘Mapping about their ideals.” DRC’s President Felix Tshisekedi surround the relatively new Kigali’s Report’ released 10 years ago. Kigali While the UN report was shelved on 25 August over the comment. ambassador, the hostility between vehemently rejected the report that for more than 10 years since it They also discussed the Great Lakes the two countries can be traced back documented serious human rights was released, it appears to attract summit that was postponed according two decades ago after two major wars violation and International laws in interests in DRC with the 2018 Nobel to media reports. which involved neighboring armies DRC. The crimes were allegedly Laureate putting efforts to lobby However, demonstrations to that backed rival rebel groups that committed by rebels’ groups and for international support to set up call for the diplomat’s expulsion occasionally fought each other on armed forces that backed them a tribunal. However, his security have continued since late August. Congolese soil. including Rwandan forces between was threatened pushing the UN to Protestors are also demanding an Rwanda’s president Paul Kagame 1993 and 2003. strengthen his protection. international tribunal for Congo to try is openly supporting the country’s President Kagame has dismissed The European Union parliament perpetrators of crimes documented by diplomat in Kinshasa for the first time the report terming it “nonsense” and has agreed to advocate for a suitable the UN a decade ago. The 2018 Nobel since calls for his expulsion emerged saying that there are various actors court to try perpetrators of the peace laureate Dennis Mukwege who saying the problems started the time who failed to do their jobs in events crimes committed in past decades. is from South Kivu has continued he led a rebel movement that attacked [1994 Genocide] that led to conflicts Some observers said the 2018 Nobel to demand justice for the victims- Rwanda in the 1990s, prompting the in DRC and now they are trying to Laureate has won the battle, it demands that appear to have angered then DRC (former Zaire) President shift the blame to his country. remains to be seen whether the court some individuals who reportedly Mobutu Sese Seko to send troops will be set up. threatened his life in the volatile in neighboring Rwanda to back the Calls for International Tribunal In its recent resolution on DRC, EU Eastern Congo. then government of his ally Juvenal “Rwanda has been the victim, so parliament has called UN Security PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 13 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa Council members to Mobutu’s government. “demand the formation While calls for justice are gaining of international tribunal momentum in South Kivu, Rwanda’s that would advance cases President Paul Kagame believes proven of human rights protests and calls for Ambassador violations dating back in Kerega to leave Congo are designed to 2002”. derail good relations between the two Meanwhile, Dr. Great lakes countries. Mukwege and a local “The Ambassador is there to bring human rights organization about good understanding between “SOS Justice” have two neighboring countries. Now they announced plans to go and attack the Ambassador, so you produce an alternative are attacking this relationship, “ said report on massacres Kagame committed in Bukavu, “That might even mean that there Nobel peace laureate Denis Mukwege is amongst those who question South Kivu in 1994 by are those people who are not happy the presence of Ambassador Karega in D.R.Congo. Photo AFP. rebels that overthrew about the relationship.” Kenya: Political Bigwigs Creating Unnecessary Tension As Elections Near By Samuel Ouma week after his close ally and former Senate Majority Leader Senator Kipchumba Murkomen sensationally claimed on the national television that the Head of the State played role in Ruto’s eviction. Murkomen further claimed that President Kenyatta is side-lining his Deputy while using the Covid-19 pandemic as a cover-up. «I was wondering to myself what happened to that Uhuru that today, Uhuru Kenyatta chased his deputy out of his Mombasa house. The President is arresting anyone associated with William Ruto,» Murkomen complained. «He hasn›t been inviting him to very important meetings nor has he been giving him any task. Let us stop President Uhuru Kenyatta and Vice President Ruto are no longer on the same page. trying to hide behind diplomacy, Photo credit Reuters. the fact is that the President is early two years are left before Early in September, William Ruto the newspapers we were kicked out. persecuting his deputy,» Murkomen Kenyans head to the ballot recounted how he was kicked out of These are shameless people who are asserted. Nto elect their 5th President his official residence in Mombasa. desperate to spark a fight in Jubilee The recent arrest of Emurua Dikirr and the successor of President Uhuru According to the second in command, and cause division between me and MP Johana Ng›eno and his Kipseret Kenyatta. However, the political heat he had visited the residence the President. counterpart Oscar Sudi, staunch in the East African nation is already accompanied by his wife in December “The most important thing for me Ruto’s diehards, elicited political unbearable especially now that the only to be told to vacate the house. is we have a stable country. If I fall debates with some alleging that the friendship between Kenyatta and his Ruto claimed those after his eviction for a trap from people who want me government is using intimidation Deputy has turned sour. The duo’s was either working independently or to public fight the President, it will be tactics to silence its critics. Ng’eno relationship has dwindled since their with opposition to trigger his public a big problem for the country. Many was accused of using abusive re-election in 2017 and the ongoing attacks against his boss. countries have become unstable and language which is likely to stir ethnic exchange of words between their “In December last year, my wife sunken into conflict when leaders lack hatred and both Sudi and Ng’eno allies is enough to tell you that there and I were staying in that house when patience,” the DP stated. were charged with alleged offensive is trouble in paradise. the decision was made and you saw in The Deputy President spoke just one remarks against President Kenyatta 14 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs

and former First Lady Mama Ngina «I believe there is a chance to sort Kenyatta. They were freed on bond out our issues in Jubilee. It would be pending the investigations. tragic if we were to lose Jubilee. If it is In a video clip that went viral, hijacked by the brokers, we will decide Johana Ng’eno was captured saying, Jubilee members at that point…If they «You are not Kenya and Kenya is succeed in the scheme they say they nor Kenyatta›s or Mama Ngina›s will deny us an opportunity or they land. This land belongs to 47 million say there›s no fielding of candidates... Kenyans; you cannot run it as you We will look at options with the rest wish. Moi and Kibaki finished their of the membership,» he added. terms and left, you should do the Ruto’s recent tour to Kisii region same next year when the time comes.” in south-western Kenya was marred The purported unsavoury remarks with protests and violence. Youths against the president and his mother allied to handshake and Ruto clashed sparked protests across the country. forcing the police officers to lobe A section of women condemned teargas and fire in the air to disperse the utterances and demanded an them. It was reported that many were unconditional apology from the two Police using tear gas to disperse protesters in 2016, injured and others arrested as they lit elections in Kenya are often rocked by severe violence. legislators. Some threatened to match bonfires to block the road the deputy to Karen office of William Ruto in “The public insults against the his allies. president was scheduled to use. protest. former first lady could whip up ethnic «Jubilee is not functioning In conclusion, to avoid what They expressed fear that such animosity among communities who as a party. We folded about 12 transpired in the 2007/2008 political utterances are likely to whip ethnic have co-existed peacefully for years. political parties to form Jubilee… clash, Kenyans should unite against emotions and trigger violence ahead We demand an unreserved apology Unfortunately, the party has been leaders whose intentions are to of 2022 polls saying that Kenya from the two MPs as insulting Mama hijacked by busybodies, conmen, divide them along the ethnic line. should avoid a repeat of 2007/2008. Ngina is like insulting all mothers in and brokers who have no clue on our More than 1,000 people lost their “It is very disrespectful and un- Kenya,” added Sarah Wanjiku. philosophy…Their word has become lives and hundreds of thousands African for a man to insult a woman On August 28, Ruto for the first the party position,» said Ruto. were displaced, however, none of the who is the age of his mother. We time spoke about his deteriorating The former agriculture minister victims were prominent politicians demand Sudi and Ng’eno to apologize friendship with the President. He hinted at the possibility of coming up or their family members. Let us immediately to the first family and revealed that the ruling party is no with his outfit should the wrangles remember that whenever chaos all women in Kenya or resign,” longer functional saying the party persist beyond repair. He called on erupts, it is the ordinary citizens said Regina Ndung’e, a protester in that he devoted much energy to build the president to reconcile the warring who bear the consequences, not the Kenya’s town of Kitengela. has been hijacked to his chagrin and factions within the party. leaders. Cameroon: Violent Crackdown on Regime Change Protesters By Andrew Nsoseka n a press outing following the authorities. nationwide protest of September In a press outing following the I22 in Cameroon, led by one of street protests that were violently Cameroon’s frontline opposition suppressed, the Minister stated that political parties, the spokesperson “The situation of the CRM political of the Cameroon government, party, which for several years now, who doubles as the Minister of has put itself in the spotlight for all Communication, Rene Emmanuel the wrong reasons with activities that Sadi, has hinted that one of the breach the peace that is so dear to country’s main political parties, noted Cameroonians, is also being closely for anti-Biya protests, and campaigns reviewed by the Minister of Territorial for regime change may be banned. Administration,” Sadi said. The threats to ban the Cameroon In his outing, the Minister revealed Renaissance Movement of Professor that some leaders and organisers Maurice Kamto, were issued by of “insurrectionary adventure were the Communication Minister after also arrested and will answer for the partly led street protest in the The regime backed its threats with actions as protesters their actions before the courts of law. country, calling for regime change. were brutalized and hundreds arrested. Others are wanted by the security The Biya regime termed the outing and its leaders prosecuted under the situation of the CRM party and its services for the same purpose. as an insurrection, and as such, have country’s 2014 terrorism law. leader, Prof. Maurice Kamto, is Competent judicial bodies are closely hinted that the party may be banned According to Minster Sadi, the being reviewed by the competent reviewing the case of the CRM PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 15 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa leader.” Minister Sadi said. and as such, not stayed in his house on the night before the September 22 Protest in protest day. Cameroon In one of his many tweets The protesters who after the September 22 demanded regime change on protest, he promised that the September 22, also carried protests will be organised banners and placards calling till December of 2020, when for an end to the Anglophone Cameroon holds its first-ever crisis in the country’s regional elections, where the English-speaking regions, ruling CPDM is expected to which has killed thousands win all regional seats, as they and displaced more. Others control almost all the local equally asked for the release councils, as well as a chunk of political prisoners. of the many traditional rulers In Douala, Cameroon’s economic failed in Yaoundé, except for pockets story of the beehive…when you touch in the country who are to vote the capital, protesters braved the odds, of protesters who showed up at some it, you know what will happen to you. regional representatives. and took to the streets, despite the spots of the town. Also, the heavy A word to the wise is enough” He said, In one of his tweets, where he urged presence of heavily armed security deployment of troops and military furthering that they will not tolerate for others to join him, Prof. Maurice officers who chased, tear-gassed, arsenal to the streets rather created any protest that brings any “public Kamto declared, “We are not to be tortured and brutalised those who a tense atmosphere, which largely disorder” in Cameroon. fooled: a people that have been in heeded calls to protest and oust prevented the people from also going Bike riders who are often the chains for so long cannot be freed President Biya from power. about their normal daily activities. engine of such protests, were rallied overnight. The Peaceful Marches of Through the use of teargas and Before the protest day, various days before the protest and motivated 22 September 2020 are therefore water cannons, protesters were ministers and Biya regime surrogates to discourage them from joining. only a starting point. The people of suppressed from marching in the had carried out media and street the resistance must stay awake and streets and chanting anti-Biya songs. campaigns, discouraging people Protest leader under house more mobilised than ever.” While some were just physically from participating in the protests. arrest Kamto went further to remark roughed up by security officers, Cameroon’s Minister of Territorial Meanwhile, on the day of the on the crude force used to suppress many were also arrested and taken Administration, MINAT, Paul Atanga protest, Maurice Kamto, who was to those who came out to protest, to detention centres where they Nji, had in a press conference, warned lead the protest march was unable to saying; “Arbitrariness and barbarism were tortured. In one of the videos that those arrested for protesting march alongside the others, because will not win out the determination recorded by a police officer in a on the streets will be charged for his house was heavily militarized, of the Cameroonian populations to detention centre, arrested protesters insurrection and other terrorism- preventing him from leaving. Some free themselves from the tyranny of made to sit on the floor, were forced related offences. critics have however faulted him for a dictatorial regime. Cameroonians, to sing that Biya is their President. Minister Atanga Nji likened bad planning, saying that he should you can be proud to have pushed the The officers laughed and mocked protesting on September 22, to have anticipated that he will be power of Yaoundé to show the world the arrested protesters as they urged touching a beehive; “You know the prevented from leaving his home, its true face.” them to clap while singing. In a public statement Some could not clap because after the protest, the their hands were bruised. Secretary-General of the In Yaoundé, the country’s CRM, Barrister Christopher political capital, the protest Ndong, said over 100 was largely foiled, due to the members of their party were heavy militarisation of major arrested. streets in the city. In various The protest planned junctions of the town, security to take place nationwide, officers were deployed, mainly took place in alongside armoured cars, Yaoundé, Douala, water cannons, and other Ngongsamba, Bafang, military arsenal. Sangmalima, and Maroua. With the violent Cameroon’s two English suppression of the protest speaking regions, currently match in Douala, and efforts in a civil war, were largely put in place to ensure that calm, as people rather went the political capital housing about their daily activities or the Presidency was not remained indoors. disturbed, the protest largely A defiant Kamto says the protests will be organised till December of 2020, when Cameroon holds its first ever regional elections 16 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs

PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 17 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa Côte d'Ivoire: The Ghosts Of The Past By Alseny Ben Bangoura * he more political criminal court. He has tensions rise in Côte also been prosecuted since Td›Ivoire, the more late December 2019 for Ivorians are haunted by an alleged «insurgency» the ghosts of the past. The attempt. But Guillaume inhabitants of the country Soro and his supporters of the late Felix Houphouët- do not see it that way and Boigny fear a recurrence he tells whoever wants of the deadly clashes that to hear it that either he is had punctuated the 2010 restored to his rights or presidential election. That the presidential election was a deep political crisis will not take place. All lasting several months amid of this contributes to a civil war whose macabre creating psychosis and toll was estimated between fear as the population lives 900 and 3000 dead. with expectations. It is therefore with great apprehension that the It must be said that population awaits the next beyond the personal Presidential election set ambitions of each for October 31, 2020. Once other, and also political Henri Konan Bédié. again, the same actors from intrigues, the vast the previous crisis are vying for the movement (Gbagbo or Nothing), but present himself under the banner of majority of Ivorians do not want their coveted post of President of the it was rejected by the Constitutional his new party, Générations et Peuples country to reconnect with the demons Republic. The candidacy of Alassane Court of Cote d›Ivoire. Solidaires, created after a quarrel of the past. But there are candidates Ouattara, the outgoing President, is Although the urgency for the with Alassane Ouattara whose for this presidential election whose contested by his rivals who maintain former flagship of the Front Populaire advances he rejected to continue name alone evokes difficult times and that the constitution does not allow Ivoirien (FPI) is to regain his freedom to campaign within the RHDP, the painful memories him to run for another term after his and return to the country, his Rassemblement des Houphouetistes ten years as the head of state. supporters are steadfast and demand for Peace and Dévelopment. The prescriptions of the The former president, Henri Konan his re-registration in the electoral roll. But the constitutional court ruled «Daoukro Sphinx.» Bédié, stepped down from his post Closing the list of former protagonists Soro’s candidacy inadmissible because The name Henri Konan Bédié, for following the coup d›état of December of the 2010 crisis, there is the hot he had been sentenced to twenty example, will forever be associated 24, 1999. Now he wants to take his and fiery Guillaume Soro, ex-prime years in prison for «concealment of with the concept of Ivoirité, the revenge by standing as a candidate of minister and ex-president of the embezzlement of public funds» and anti-breaker law, and an electoral the PDCI, the party that reigned over National Assembly who is keen to «money laundering» by the Abidjan code designed to exclude political Côte d›Ivoire for decades. opponents from the But Bédié’s candidacy did electoral game. Under the not go smoothly, and he had pretext of Africanizing the to end it with an alliance republican institutions contracted with Ouattara and preferentially placing for the elections of 2010 Ivorian executives in and 2015, thus containing positions of responsibility, the ambitions of the young Henri Konan Bédié will wolves who deemed him too take the opportunity to old, 86, to be a standard- stuff the administration bearer. with militants and Despite his legal quarrels supporters of his party, at the International Criminal the PDCI. Anyone who Court, Laurent Gbagbo›s was suspected, rightly or candidacy was submitted by wrongly, of having a bent his unconditional supporters for the Opposition was grouped within the GOR Laurent Gbagbo. outright fired.

Call / eMail Us Tel:2404292177, email: [email protected], [email protected] 18 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs The victims of this open of Prime Minister and President of discrimination were numerous, and the National Assembly, his name they were Ivorians with northern remains rather associated with the sounding names, foreigners who rebellion that shook Côte d›Ivoire had lived and worked quietly in this during the 2000s. country during the years of peaceful reign of President Felix-Houphouët Guillaume Soro was the Boigny. This very widespread and Secretary-General of Forces insidious ivoirité policy leads to Nouvelles, a coalition of a rebel real social unrest. movement whose armed elements President from 1993 to 1999, controlled the central, northern, Henri Konan Bédié was also the and western part of Ivorian architect of an electoral code both territory. tailor-made and intended to oust his main political rival, Alassane The fights between the New Dramane Ouattara. The provisions Forces and the loyalist forces of of this code stipulate that any Guillaume Soro. Laurent Gbagbo were sometimes candidate for president or that the authorities’ refusal to release the procedure since it applied only to very hard and caused many victims. of deputy to the National Assembly defendants triggered the coup against northerners who were thus victims. Many years later, Ivorians remain should have lived continuously in Côte Bédié on Christmas Eve, 1999. Woe to him who protests! Once very affected. d›Ivoire for the five years preceding If the Ivorians hoped for a change your back was turned, you would the date of the elections and he must of policy with the arrival of Laurent simply tear up all your papers. The Many will tell you that they were not have obtained the nationality of Gbagbo to power, they quickly experience of an 80-year-old lady in locked up for days on end, with little another country. In its article 49, the become disillusioned. Indeed if the this regard was quite uplifting, but food on hand, not daring to venture code stipulates among other things new president is not the designer of also heartbreaking. This octogenarian outside. They will all tell you that that «no one can be elected president Ivoirité, he will be the one who, for ten who wanted a passport to go on a they would never want to relive such of the republic if he is not over 40 years (2000-2010), carried out the pilgrimage to Mecca had the surprise events again. That’s why Guillaume years of age and if he is not Ivorian by many facets of this controversial policy of her life when she was refused the Soro’s recent fiery speeches have sent birth, born of both father and mother. to the letter. While the law originally issuance of her travel document. shockwaves across the country. - the same Ivorians by birth .” These aimed above all at putting an end The policewoman who spoke to Will the leader of GPS be able to are the provisions of the law that the to Alassane Ouattara›s presidential her told her that there was no proof carry out his threats? The near future Ivorian authorities will use against ambitions and neutralizing potential that she was born in Odienné. Faced will tell. For now, the vast majority Alassane Ouattara to deny him his competitors, it found applications in with the disbelief displayed by the old of Ivorians sigh when speaking of Ivorian nationality. almost all spheres of Ivorian society. lady, the policewoman went to find an Guillaume Soro, before invariably But they did not expect the courage And the populations themselves have interpreter to explain clearly to the concluding in the same way: “Too of a young judge, Zoro Bi Ballo ever since felt the repercussions of mother in the Dioula language what it bad he was in such a hurry. He should Epiphane, who challenged the regime this pernicious doctrine. was. It is, therefore, a fellow of 1.90 m have been patient and stood by of Henri Konan Bédié by issuing There is no shortage of anecdotes who came up in front of the old lady President Ouattara, power was going in September 1999 a certificate of on this subject and Ivorians are always to tell her this: «But Mum, I studied to fall to him without difficulty. It nationality to Alassane Ouattara. ready to tell you, sometimes with in Abidjan, I am settled in Abidjan, was for him but alas, he has said too The latter will be prosecuted by the humor, cases of abuse, humiliation, I work in Abidjan, my children were much! And he continues to criticize authorities for forgery and the use of and denial of their rights. Even to born in Abidjan, but does that mean the president. Pity! forgery because of his certificate of obtain a simple travel document, that they are Ebriés.” It emerges from all this that nationality. The rest is history, but it one could be exposed to the worst Let us remember that the Ebriés the Ivorian populations no longer is not surprising that many observers treatment. To renew a passport, for are the indigenous populations want to go back. The preservation have characterized these provisions example, you had to prove that your of the region of Abidjan and its of peace, social tranquility, and as an electoral code of exclusion. parents are Ivorian, even with a valid surroundings. Incredible as it may be, economic development remain the certificate of nationality. The police the old lady had no choice but to nod most important issues for everyone. But that›s not all. Since Henri always told you invariably that the as she wiped away her tears between However, the past ten years have Konan Bédié›s regime had also put certificate of nationality has no value sobs. been the most peaceful in Côte in place an anti-breaker law that because in the court there, «they do d›Ivoire after the boom years of the makes it liable for damage caused whatever.» The specter of rebellion Felix Houphouët-Boigny era. And during a mass demonstration, it was The procedure, therefore, required There remains only Guillaume so far President Alassane Dramane under this law that on October 27, coming with another parent who Soro, the leader of the GPS party. Ouattara has been its guarantor, 1999, the authorities sentenced to 2 would be able to validate the Despite his relative youth, he is part symbol, and hope. years in prison several RDR officials information contained in the file. It of the class of elders who carry the * Alseny Ben Bangoura is who had been arrested, including Ms. was absolutely necessary to submit embers of Ivorian politics. Despite Publisher of AlloAfrica News Henriette Diabaté. This arrest and to this shameful and discriminatory the fact that he held the high positions PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 19 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

20 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Cameroon:Operation "Bamenda Clean"; cleansing Young Cameroonians, jobs By Andrew Nsoseka military operation After weeks of the operation, in Cameroon’s elected representatives of ANorthwest region, Northwest lawyers, who duped “Operation Bamenda are also members of the Clean” has seen Cameroon’s Cameroon Bar Council wrote Northwest region and a terse letter the Attorney Bamenda, in particular, losing General of the Northwest many of its youths to military region, telling him that the raids, as the operation “cleans” operation is rather punishing them off the neighbourhoods civilians and not protecting and streets. them, as was insinuated in the The operation which communique announcing it. was introduced alongside “Albeit the commendable a ban on the circulation of objectives on which this motorbikes, a principal means operation is predicated, we of transportation in the town The operation is to rid the town of terrorists, and criminals, who are compelled by our noble kidnap, rob banks and stores, loot, target and kill civilians says the military has also seen many youths role as watchdogs of the to the skepticism of many. who relied on commercial society to decry and condemn bike riding for a living, losing their using motorbikes to carry out their In a counter move by separatist any act(s) which undermines the only source of income, in the heart of operations, as such, the sector had to fighters operating in the City, a ban law, dehumanizes the population, a civil war that has made life difficult be banned to limit crime wave in the was also placed on vehicles operating flaws laid down rules, principles or for most locals. region. in town. They stated that vehicles will procedures and/or equally violates In a communique announcing the Critics have, however, argued that only be allowed to move freely when national and international legislation military operation, signed by the the ban on commercial bike riding motorbikes are also permitted to as well as fundamental principles of commander of the 5th joint military in the city will rather increase crime, circulate. This made transportation justice.” The lawyers in their letter, region, Brigadier General Nka Valere, because the thousands of youths who in the town a nightmare as the few signed by the Northwest regions alongside the commander of the depend on it for a living, especially taxis that braved the odds, to circulate Representative of the Batonnier, 5th joint Gendarmerie, Brigadier during the crisis that has seen many could not ferry everyone around. Mbah Eric Mbah Esq, and Bar General Ekongwese Divine, and economic activities halted, will easily The City council introduced buses to Treasurer, Akum Michael Nche Esq the Northwest Regional Delegate be lured into criminal gangs, or into transport people within the town, but stated. for National Security, Police Separatist activities. again separatist fighters have warned The lawyers said they condemn Commissioner Gousmo Emile, After weeks of the implementation locals against using the buses, and atrocities committed on the stated, “The population of the city of the “Bamenda Clean” campaign, have promised to attack the buses population and security forces by of Bamenda and its environs are the civilian population has been hard and its occupants, who they say they Separatist fighters in the region, but hereby informed that on instructions hit. The several raids and wanton will consider and treat the same way went on to tell the Attorney General from top command, Defence and house searches, accompanied by mass as military personnel. that they find it compelling to draw Security forces (DSF) have initiated arrests in several neighbourhoods The casualty from the operation, his attention to the shortcomings in a special operation, to secure the city has placed the population on a tight is also grave, especially as it goes the execution of the military operation of Bamenda and its surroundings spot. The several arrests made, often on without locals noticing. On and the security outreach. code-named “Bamenda Clean” from end up with the locals paying colossal September 26, locals who live around Pointing out that they expect Tuesday, September 8/2020.” sums paid for the arrested to be Naka River in Bamenda woke up more from trained state security and Stating that the reason behind released. and discovered at least five corpses defence forces, the lawyers highlighted the operation was to rid the town Raids in neighbourhoods resulted reportedly dumped by military that the execution of the operation of ‘terrorists’, and criminals, who in deaths of several youths, who personnel overnight. Locals say other on the field is largely characterized kidnap, rob banks and stores, loot, after their execution, they are often corpses of unidentified young men by intimidation, extortion, assault as well as target and kill civilians branded as separatist fighters. The have often been brought and dumped and torture, illegal arrests and as well as state security forces, the operation rather brought in an in the river, since the operation incommunicado detentions of General re-echoed that the ban on atmosphere of fear and tension, started. Several civilians too have civilians in outfits unknown to their commercial motorbikes in the Urban with several gun battles that have been felled by bullets often described families and inaccessible to lawyers perimeter of Bamenda city must be worsened the situation of life in by the belligerents as “stray bullets”. and that the arbitrarily arrested are respected. The regional authorities the city, forcing many to stay only often released against the payment claimed that criminals in the region, indoors, thus grounding economic Bar Council Condemns Security of astronomical sums or even killed as well as separatist fighters, were activities in the town. Operation and Fallouts extra-judicially. They further stated PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 21 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

objectives and propelling motives. “Such excesses can only help to boost the spirit of civil disobedience which nourishes radicalism, thereby undermining the efforts being made by the government and relevant stakeholders to ensure the return and prevalence of justice and peace (in the region); being indispensable ingredients for the return of normalcy. “The civilian population of Bamenda, engulfed by fear are wondering and hoping that the law steps in to ensure that the Operation «Bamenda Clean» does not end up as a cleansing, or a worsening of an already bad situation.” The lawyers said. Though the Bamenda and its The operation has paralyzed economic activity with civilians paying a huge price. environs have been tense since the crisis escalated into an armed conflict, that such acts can only be lamented forceful entry into houses, searches effects of the Anglophone Crisis on the military operation has made it by the helpless and voiceless civilian conducted without warrants nor a the inhabitants of the region amidst worse, with the frequent gun battles, population, which they, the lawyers, declaration of a state of emergency the endless cycle of violence and the restricted movement as well as seek to protect. thereby intimidating the inhabitants hostilities, any oppressive conduct as locals being unable to travel in and The lawyers further stated that a and their fears exploited via financial currently evidenced in the ongoing out or through the town on schedule, system of extortion has been deployed gains. initiative, if unchecked, might rather because of the volatile situation. in the “Bamenda Clean” operation “Considering the already render it counter-productive, in whereby cases are registered of precarious socio-economic and other strict contrast to its good-intended Cameroon Anglophone Crisis: "The Worst May Still Be Ahead"- Catholic Bishops Warn By Andrew Nsoseka n a message released at the end of 69th meeting of the Bamenda IProvincial Episcopal Conference, BAPEC, Roman Catholic Bishops whose territorial circumscription is the Anglophone regions of Cameroon, have warned that the worst may still be ahead if the right measures and actions are not employed to peacefully resolve the Anglophone crisis. In the communique that carried the caution message, the Bishops, recalling that they have written severally, as well as proposed better ways of handling the crisis, other than fighting, stated; “We have addressed many messages to you before; but we shall not get tired of always raising a prophetic voice when and where possible, crying out to God to have mercy on his people in their distress” They said. The Bishops are calling for the power of reason to prevail over the use of force in solving problems. The Bishops in their 22 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs correspondence, listed the various dreadful happenings, after which they stated that; “The insecurity in the two regions has reached unimaginable heights and we are even entertaining fears that the worst may still be ahead.” They sated. The leaders of the Church, whose territorial coverage is the crisis- ridden English speaking regions of Cameroon, stated that for the past four years, they “have been preoccupied and worried about the socio-political situation plaguing the two Regions of the Northwest and the Southwest of Cameroon, which are coterminous with the territorial circumscription of the Ecclesiastical Province of Bamenda. We have seen people of all ages and walks of life killed in cold blood for flimsy or no reasons at all; we have witnessed the ravages of war and the untold sufferings it has caused our people; we can testify Memorial ceremony held on February 21, 2020 at the St Theresia Cathedral l in Kumbo, NW region, for victims of the Ngarbuh massacre. The Bishops say people have suffered enough. that many of our children are growing older, many of our young girls are difficult. his voice to this call in the following prisoners as a fruit of the Major becoming unprepared mothers and “Life has become almost unbearable words: “The call for a global and National Dialogue of 2019, we hereby above all uneducated, because of their to our people and this is a great immediate ceasefire, which would reiterate our call for the release of inability to go to school as a result of concern for us as Chief Shepherds of allow the peace and security essential all the prisoners of the Anglophone the ongoing crisis. We have also seen the flock entrusted to our care.” They for providing the humanitarian crisis. This will go a long way to pacify the wanton destruction of property, said. assistance so urgently needed, is the fighters on the ground and get the kidnappings and demanding for The Bishops further stated that commendable” (Sunday Angelus: released prisoners act as agents for ransom; and the crime wave is on the they “wish to put out this message to 29 March 2020). On the 5th of July the attainment of justice and peace in increase. all the stakeholders in this situation, 2020, Pope Francis, in reference to our communities.” “We have been struggling to calling for the power of reason to the resolution of the UN Security The Bishops also issued a call for manage the situation of thousands prevail over the use of force in solving Council of the 1st of July 2020, prayed the continuation of Dialogue. They of internally displaced persons, our domestic problems.” that this resolution may “become noted that they already, in a message refugees, and the homeless, a On the way forward, the men of a courageous first step towards a by all the Bishops of Cameroon on situation that has been created by God, recalling some of the things peaceful future” (Sunday Angelus, 5 the 29th of April 2017, called for the excesses of man’s wickedness to they have said before concerning July 2020). Dialogue as the only pacific way to man. We have seen the economy of this crisis, stated that they are We, the Bishops of the Ecclesiastical solve what had come to be known as our two regions plummet to abysmal sincerely placing an urgent call to all Province of Bamenda, as first-hand the Anglophone problem. Inter alia, depths from a once booming and Members of Christ’s Faithful in the witnesses to the sufferings of our they said that Dialogue is important prosperous economy, due to ghost Ecclesiastical Province of Bamenda, people, join our voices to the voice and necessary. Acknowledging the towns, frequent lockdowns and heavy all People of Goodwill, and the of Our Holy Father Pope Francis and initiative to organise the National militarization of the two regions, international community, regarding many other world leaders, calling Dialogue about a year ago, the Bishop accompanied by extortion and certain points outlined as the way for an immediate and unconditional stated that “Dialogue is never enough torture. The insecurity in the two forward for the crisis. ceasefire in the Northwest and until it has achieved its purpose. regions has reached unimaginable The Bishops urged that a ceasefire Southwest Regions of Cameroon.” In our case, justice and peace are heights and we are even entertaining in the North West and South West On appeasing parties in the our final goal; and, we cannot stop fears that the worst may still be Regions should be called. In line with conflict, the placed a call for the dialoguing and working towards ahead.” The Prelates outlined. a ceasefire, they stated that “on the release of Anglophone Political dialogue until we attain the justice The Bishops further regretted that 23rd of March 2020, the Secretary- Prisoners. “In order that the ceasefire and peace, which are the daily cry of while their flocks were grappling with General of the United Nations first may be effective, we call for the our people. We, therefore, encourage a bad-enough-situation, created by proposed a global ceasefire in war- release of all prisoners connected all the parties involved in this crisis the socio-political crisis, the scourge torn areas of the world, so as to focus with the Anglophone crisis as a step not to relent their efforts to continue of the Coronavirus Pandemic has not efforts on curbing the spread of the in the direction of a resolution of the dialoguing, even when things don’t spared them, and as such has made Coronavirus Pandemic. On the 29th crisis. While appreciating the efforts seem to look bright.” an already very difficult life even more of March 2020, Pope Francis added of the Government in releasing 333 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 23 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

Bishops Appeal For Complete and should be conducive School Resumption to fraternal relations The Bishops in their point with other nations in Eight, called “for Complete School order to promote true Resumption in the Two Regions” The unity and peace in the Bishops’ statement recalled that in world’ (Gravissimum the in their open letter published on Educationis, n. 1)”. the 23rd of August 2019, appealing “Once again, we call on for the resumption of schools, they all parents to send their had said: “Since the beginning of children to school for the this crisis, we have endeavoured to 2020/2021 School Year, make a clear distinction between the so that their future can be causes of the crisis and the children’s guaranteed in a competitive right to education. We have always world of academics made recourse to the teachings of and technological The Bishops have called for a complete school resumption in the two the Church, that ‘all men of whatever accomplishments. We also Regions. Photo credit BBC. race, condition or age, in virtue of appeal to those who have their dignity as human persons, have acted as a threat to the education of by Archbishop Andrew Nkea, Bishop of Kumba; Bishop Michael an inalienable right to education. our children and/or have blocked it Archbishop of Bamenda, Apostolic Bibi, Auxiliary Bishop of Bamenda This education should be suitable and are using our children as a shield Administrator of Mamfe and Vice and Apostolic Administrator of Buea. to the particular destiny of the for political gains, to give the children President of BAPEC; Bishop George individuals, adapted to their ability, a chance to build their own future.” Nkuo, Bishop of Kumbo and President sex and national cultural traditions, The Bishops’ letter was signed of BAPEC; Bishop Agapitus Nfon, African Hero Gone: A Look at some of George Bizos; Famous Cases By Prince Kurupati n September 9, 2020, ANC leadership most probably South African president would receive the death sentence. OCyril Ramaphosa in a Amongst the leaders of the ANC briefing announced that human was Nelson Mandela who would rights stalwart George Bizos later on become the first black had died. The South African South African president. president said the departed As the majority of the ANC was “an incisive legal mind and leadership consisted of lawyers, architect of our (South African) the ANC took the decision to constitution.” Ramaphosa said allow the lawyer members of Bizos died at the age of 92 of the ANC to stand as the defense natural causes at his family home team during the trial. Mandela in Johannesburg. was selected to be part of the George Bizos devoted his life defense team. Preparing his to defending the unfortunate, defense statement from the dock, the marginalized and the Mandela famously concluded discriminated. His devotion to his defense statement with the defending human rights abuses phrase “it is an ideal for which I started during the Apartheid am prepared to die.” era in South Africa when he was Pictured here with Nelson Mandela, the legal wisdom of George After concluding his Bizos was helpful in the historic struggle against apartheid.Photo credit one of the junior counsels for statement, the statement was Mandela Foundation. former South African president passed and circulated around Nelson Mandela during the and the discriminated. At the start of the 1960s, the the whole defense team. Many Rivonia Trial. Since then, George In helping celebrate a life well leadership of the African National members of the defense team saw Bizos represented many others both lived, Pan African Visions decided Congress (ANC), the party opposing nothing wrong with Mandela’s the popular and the ordinary folks to highlight some of George Bizos white minority rule in South Africa statement but when it came to one whenever he felt the law was being famous cases. found itself facing sabotage charges. junior counsel by the name, George used selectively to the detriment of These charges were a capital offence Bizos, alarm was raised. George Bizos the unfortunate, the marginalized The Rivonia Trial which meant that if found guilty, the objected to the closing statement 24 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs saying it gave ammunition to the with the help of George Bizos was prosecution to take the most extreme later acquitted of the charges. punishment. In his memoirs Odyssey to Freedom Marikana Commission of (2007), Bizos said as soon as I saw Inquiry Mandela’s closing statement I was In 2012, Lonmin mine workers shocked. “I was shocked by his closing in Marikana, South Africa decided words; that he was ready to die for to embark on industrial action what he had done. Surely this would citing incapacitation owing to poor be viewed as a challenge, irresistible remuneration. The mineworkers to the prosecution, the judge and the decided to take matters into their own government? I argued that surely hands after the National Union of Nelson wanted to live and accomplish Mineworkers (NUM), the body which what he and his organization strove George Bizos devoted his life to defending the unfortunate, represents all mineworkers in the for.” the marginalized and the discriminated. country failed to take any significant Bizos’ intervention later on saw Reconciliation Commission (TRC). up soon after the end of the Apartheid action in pushing for a dialogue Mandela changing his closing The commission functioned more like era, Janusz Walus sought to evade between the workers and the Lonmin statement by inserting the words “if a restorative justice body. Witnesses justice by requesting amnesty at the management. As the mineworkers’ needs be” at the very end. Later on, who were identified as victims of TRC. George Bizos representing the industrial action kept on going for Bizos said his decision to modify the gross human rights violations were Hani family however fought against several days, Lonmin management closing statement was influenced by invited to give statements about their any form of amnesty being granted to sought help from the South African the “ancients”. “What influenced me experiences, and some were selected Walus. Police Service (SAPS) to control here was an argument that Socrates for public hearings. Perpetrators George Bizos’ relentless work the striking workers. However, the might have saved his life if he had not of violence were also given the ultimately paid dividends when unthinkable happened as soon as challenged the Athenian jury in so opportunity to make testimonies and Janusz Walus was convicted for SAPS arrived at the mine. Instead resolute a manner.” request amnesty from both civil and murder. At first, Walus was given the of trying to control the crowd, SAPS It is the conviction of many that criminal prosecution. death penalty but this was later on saw it fit to use live fire to control the Bizos’ timely intervention at modifying Noble as the intentions of the TRC commuted to life imprisonment. Over striking workers. This angered the Mandela’s closing statement during were, there were reports that some the years, Walus has unsuccessfully workers and confusion reigned in the Rivonia Trial was the one thing victims were being threatened from applied. His latest parole application leading to the death of 34 miners with that played a significant role in letting giving statements at the commission. was on 16 March, 2020 but was dozens others left injured. the ANC leadership receive the life At the same time, some people who unsuccessful once again as he was After the incident, the South imprisonment sentence instead of the had done grievous forms of violence – denied parole by Justice Minister African instituted the Marikana ultimate sentence. sometimes not politically related also Ronald Lamola. Commission of Inquiry to look into sought to evade criminal prosecution the events that led to the death of Death in Detention Trials by taking advantage of the Truth Morgan Tsvangirai Treason the 34 miners. George Bizos through After his role during the Rivonia and Reconciliation Commission. Charge the organization that he helped to Trial, George Bizos soon became On this front, George Bizos made it George Bizos did not confine his establish, Legal Resources Centre the go-to man for all those who his mission to give reassurance to work to helping South Africans represented the mineworkers at the found themselves at the mercy of the victims that intimidation was only. He at times worked in helping commission. The commission found the Apartheid regime. On this front, not something that they should fear other people in different countries that the police were responsible for many of the families who lost their as they had to air out their anger in around the African continent. A Case the events that led to the death of the loved ones in detention centers order to heal. Bizos did help dozens in point is the treason trial for the mineworkers. under unclear conditions approached of families to appear before the TRC late Zimbabwean opposition leader Though Bizos used the courtroom Bizos to help them get the necessary without any fear. Morgan Tsvangirai. At the height of as his fighting ground, he was answers that they wanted. George Bizos also used his legal the fast track land reform program instrumental in other areas as From the early 1970s to the mid knowledge to thwart the efforts by in Zimbabwe when white farmers well. Bizos played a key role in the 1980s, George Bizos represented unscrupulous elements to evade were being hounded off their farms negotiations that led to the release of several high profile families in South criminal prosecution through taking with Mugabe loyalists confiscating political prisoners including Nelson Africa. Notably, some of these include advantage of the TRC. One famous them, the opposition leader Morgan Mandela in 1990, he helped in drafting the Ahmed Timols’ family in 1971, the instance relates to the death of Chris Tsvangirai was accused of plotting the South African constitution which Steve Biko family in 1977 and the Neil Hani. Chris Hani, the leader of the with some of the disgruntled displaced passed into law in 1996 and he served Aggett’s family in 1982. South African Communist Party, chief white farmers of overthrowing the on the Judicial Service Commission of staff of uMkhonto we Sizwe, the Mugabe regime. The accusations from 1994 up to 2009. The Judicial Truth and Reconciliation armed wing of the ANC and a fierce finally led Tsvangirai being charged Service Commission appoints and Commission Hearings critic of the Apartheid government of treason by the Mugabe regime – promotes judges. At the end of the Apartheid era, was assassinated on 10 April 1993 by a capital offence. Though the trial South Africa set up the Truth and Janusz Walus. When the TRC was set moved at a snail’s pace, Tsvangirai PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 25 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa BRAZIL AFRICA FORUM 2020 OVERCOMING THE CHALLENGES OF THE PANDEMIC: WHAT’S NEXT?

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26 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs African countries should structure post covid plans around the AfCFTA - Former Liberian Minister B. Elias Shoniyin By Ajong Mbapndah L handling of the virus, prompting fears of its prevalence. However, we are happy that society’s awareness drawn from the Ebola experience has contributed hugely to constraining social behavior resulting to the low number of COVID cases. As someone who follows developments across Africa closely, what appraisal do you make of how African countries have fared in the fight against COVID 19, what are some of the positives and negatives that you see in some of the responses? B. Elias Shoniyin: Generally, the response of many African countries to the pandemic was prompt. We are aware of our limitations in available financial and human resources, and the weaknesses in our health care The more we can invest in our people, the more the future of Africa will be assured, says Shoniyin. systems; therefore, the most sensible t is important that African underground are not what make limited capacity of the George Weah reaction was what we did; that is, countries be encouraged a people great; the capacity of the Government, they are continuing prevention. Measures to prevent the Ito formulate their post- people to harness those resources to make efforts. Clearly, a lot more spread of the virus was the first and COVID recovery plans around the makes them great. Our foremost is required to fully address the most emphasized course of action by opportunity of African Continental challenge in Africa today is the pandemic; therefore, the Government many countries. Free Trade Agreement-AfCFTA, says limited capacity of our people. The is encouraged to seek and bring on B Elias Shoniyin, a professional in more we can invest in our people, the board more professional expertise The President of Madagascar international affairs, development more Africa’s future will be assured,” available in Liberia. has touted a remedy called and policy. says Shoniyin. Covid Organics as an antidote Shoniyin, a Liberian national who The outbreak of COVID 19 comes to COVID-19, while the WHO has occupied key government positions Thanks for accepting to grant a few years after the outbreak been skeptical about it, many in the administrations of Sirleaf us this interview, we start with of Ebola, are there any useful Africans and African leaders Johnson, and George Weah, says COVID 19, how is the situation lessons from the Ebola episode have embraced it, where do you the AfCFTA will embolden African like in Liberia? that have been useful or could stand on initiatives like those countries to invest more in areas of B. Elias Shoniyin: Clearly, COVID be better put to use in providing of President Rajoelina which comparative advantage, where they 19 is global and every country on the a better response to COVID 19 in seek to make Africa part of the have maximum potentials. earth has been affected – be it, by the your country? solution ? Discussing the African response to extent of the virus infection rate or B. Elias Shoniyin: There are many B. Elias Shoniyin: I believe in the COVID 19 with Pan African Visions- the deteriorating economic condition similarities between how Ebola promise of Africa. Finding African PAV, Shoniyin lauded the prompt resulting from the pandemic. Liberia, and COVID 19 are transmitted. The solutions to problems that affect response across the continent despite bringing to bear its experience with obvious differences are COVID is a Africa should be supported by all well-known limitations. In Liberia, the Ebola outbreak in 2014 to 2015, lot more contagious but less deadly Africans, but not blindly and on while the experience acquired in quickly built on and redeployed than Ebola. As soon as the first sentimental basis. while lauding previous battles with the Ebola virus the health measures to protect our known COVID 19 case was reported the efforts of Madagascar to find an continues to be useful, he urged the communities. As of now, we have in Liberia, the dormant structures African solution to the covid crisis in government of President George officially recorded 1,321 COVID 19 established during the Ebola outbreak Africa, I think it became unnecessarily Weah to seek and bring in more cases, 1196 recovery and 82 death. were immediately reactivated. political. when it comes to matters expertise. Strict social and public health of medical concerns, it should be On the future, Shoniyin urges What do you make of the way measures were taken, including dealt with scientifically. there was African governments to invest more the government of President mass awareness, isolation of infected no evidence or scientific data to in its people. George Weah has handled the persons, and effective contact tracing. confirm the potency/efficacy of the “I believe the most valuable asset of pandemic in Liberia? Many Liberians were skeptical of Covid organics, but many Africans Africa is its people. Natural resources B. Elias Shoniyin: Noting the the government of Liberia’s initial went ahead to celebrate its discovery. PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 27 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

I thought that was too early. As I profoundly inspired by said earlier, I laud Madagascar for her advocacy, courage, the bold efforts. They should not be and professional discouraged. Africa will continue accomplishments. trying to improve and evidentially Later, that same year, confirm our discoveries. I joined her campaign for the presidency of In follow up to that , there has Liberia, developing a passionate debate about the campaign strategies issues of vaccines for COVID and training modules 19 with people fearful that for mobilizers. Africans will be used as “guinea Following her election pigs,” what is your take on this, and subsequent what are some of the pros and inauguration as the cons that governments should first female President Liberia is now enduring a difficult period with all the economic and social consider before making a of Liberia - Africa, I indicators in the reverse ,says Shoniyin who served in two administrations decision concerning vaccines? was appointed at the B. Elias Shoniyin: I know Africans Foreign Ministry as Assistant Minister President Weah as well before education, experience, and technical are haunted by a history of distrust, for International Cooperation and resigning, first what was the competence required to adequately imperialism, and exploitation, in our Economic Affairs. That portfolio difference in vision for Liberia get the job done. He has found engagement with the West. These are launched my international affairs for both leaders, and what himself caught between the difficult legacies of past relationship with the and diplomatic profession, which has prompted you to resign? options of recruiting competences West that have remained the main now spanned almost fourteen years. B. Elias Shoniyin: I do recall in outside of his Party to get the job cause of the modern-day suspicion I have felt very lucky and blessed for 2006, President Sirleaf inherited done, and running a government of by Africans. Despite the legitimacy the opportunity not only to serve with an entirely broken country, after tragical incompetence, but fiercely of the suspicion, I see opportunities. President Sirleaf, but also with other fourteen years of devastating civil loyal partisans who spent most of The sad reality is Africa has not yet extraordinary personalities with wars. She assumed leadership of their working hours attacking his developed the competitive advantage long and distinguished professi0nal Liberia with a clear vision of what critics on social media but performing for high-level scientific capacity and tenures, including Ambassador was required to ignite transformative decimally in their government duties. facilities to drive medical research to George w. Wallace, who was the recovery. She had her eyes fixed My resignation as Deputy Foreign solve most of the World’s problems. Foreign Minister then; Ambassador on her goal of setting Liberia on an Minister of Liberia, in May 2020 Even though we do contribute in Carlton Carpeh, Amb. T. Ernest irreversible course to development. In was prompted by consistent policy a modest way to solving some of Eastman (Fmr. Foreign Minister), this effort, she was prepared to make and value incompatibilities. I served these problems, the West remains Amb. William V.S. Bull, Olubanke arduous decisions, even if it meant, my country with dedication and dominant in scientific research, and King-Akerele (Fmr. Foreign working contrary to her Party’s respect for nearly fourteen years and thus, most of the medical discoveries Minister), Dr. Toga Mcintosh (Fmr. expectations. In her twelve years, I thought it was time to move on, and are derived from Western countries. Foreign Minister), Amb. Sylvester two terms leadership, emphasis was I did. I think we should put our scientists Grigsby, and many others. placed on Human capacity, building and medical researchers to work to My time at the Foreign Ministry, strong and sustainable institutions, May we know some of the confirm the composition and safety working in the shadow of President I relish the opportunity to have significant challenges that you of the COVID vaccines, and do not Ellen Johnson, at a critical time been called upon by President George faced while in government, simply reject them, leaving more than of post-conflict recovery, state- Weah to serve with him immediately and in terms of significant a billion persons to face the Corona building, and reconstruction of following his election, affording me accomplishments, what are Virus threat on their own. Liberia, profoundly shaped my the distinguished honor of serving some that come to mind? world view and my development in two successive administrations in B. Elias Shoniyin: Like many other Let’s talk more about the perspective. For President Sirleaf, post-conflict Liberia. I believe he has countries in Africa, public service in Ministerial functions that preparing the generation after her had good intentions for Liberia, but Liberia is truly difficult. Not by the you, occupied, how did you for both government and corporate his limited professional experience responsibilities of the office, but more find yourself in government leadership was a key feature of her may have held him hostage to of navigating the deeply personally at such a relatively young age Administration. She was always delivering on his promise to the people driven political space. There were and what was the experience intentional for seeking young talents of Liberia. He is trying to take some many challenges encountered in like working under President and preparing them for national practical steps towards achieving the course of my public service, Sirleaf Johnson? service. I learned a lot from her, key objectives, but it has been an including professional, ethical, B. Elias Shoniyin: Prior to my public both ethically and professionally. No uphill battle, with the strong partisan and several attempts to blackmail service life, I worked in the nonprofit doubt, she is a towering figure. centered government he currently has me. Example of some of the most sector for many years, starting at going. Unfortunately, many of the key significant professional and technical the young age of eighteen. In 2005 I After the departure of President operatives of his party (Congress for challenges were the low human encountered Ellen Johnson and was Johnson, you served under Democratic Change) lack the requisite capacity mainly at the low and middle 28 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs levels in government institutions their post-COVID recovery plans due to the politicization of the around the opportunity of AfCFTA. system. Dominantly, most of those AfCFTA will also embolden African who entered or sought government countries to invest more in areas of appointments were motivated by the comparative advantage, where they personal acquisition of public wealth have maximum potentials. and for unfair advantage over others. There were almost at all time, personal We end with a word from you on interest involved when getting tasks the future of Liberia and Africa, done. These self-interested actions what are your hopes and what slowed momentum, killed morale, are your fears? and stymied productivity, making B. Elias Shoniyin: Liberia is now it difficult to derive the maximum enduring a difficult period. All the results from the government’s economic and social indicators actions. Despite these challenges, are in the reverse, after an earlier the inspiration, courage, and out of twelve years of steady reforms B Elias Shoniyin is urging African countries to anchor their the box thinking ,President Sirleaf and transformation. Prior to the post COVID 19 recovery plans around the AfCFTA. spurred, emboldened me and many Coronavirus pandemic, the economy others on her team to put in an extent of the challenges she inherited, including JFK Medical Center in was already sliding; now it seems to average of fourteen hours a day and where she left the country at the Monrovia, and Phebe Hospital in be in acceleration downward. The in achieving the objectives of the time of her turnover, I hail her for Gbarnga, Bong County; and many future is no doubt uncertain! post-conflict recovery programs. great work. A few examples of her more. I believe in the promise of Africa, When we assumed office in 2006, Presidential accomplishment are as but I am aware that there is a lot of the depth of the quagmire before us follows: She inherited a budget of 83M Prior to the outbreak of work to be done, particularly in re- was scary – there was nothing that in 2006 and left almost US$600M; COVID-19, the African orientating the mindset on how we did not require fixing – the entire she inherited a reserve of US$6.5M Continental Free Trade see public service and developing socioeconomic fabric of society was and left US$154.8M; she successfully Agreement was the harbinger of the spirit of entrepreneurship. We in shambles; from pipe bourn water negotiated and secured cancellation great hope for the continent, did will need to invest hugely in human to infrastructure (roads, ports, energy of more than US$4.9B external you share in that optimism and capacity and infrastructure and build , education system, health system, debt; she inherited an unpaid wage can you situate the importance strong and sustainable institutions massive unemployment, democratic bill of 36 months to civil servants, of the AfCFTA in the post COVID that are beyond the narrow structures, mindset, and a lot more. and cleared it all in five years, raised recovery plans for Africa? aspirations of a few individuals. There Looking back, I am proud of what we salaries by more than 2500 percent; B. Elias Shoniyin: I am sure are some countries on the Continent together achieved as a country. There she inherited an energy generation counted in the number of those that are progressing very well along is still a lot to be done in Liberia’s capacity of Zero megawatt and we left optimistic of the promise of AfCFTA. these lines and we are all proud of development drive; however, when 126MW excluding electricity in some AfCFTA will unlock the untapped them. one looks at from where we come, the rural communities from the West potential of intra-Africa trade and I disagree every time I hear new do appreciate where we are. African Power Pool (WAPP) and compel African countries to increase people inferring that Africa is rich – the CLSG; she inherited a rundown cross-border connectivity to facilitate suggesting that the minerals or gems, There are many who believe that airport and left a new Terminal and the movement of goods and services. and natural resources underground besides handing over power runway; she inherited dilapidated AfCFTA will not only increase trade are supposed to make us rich without after twelve years, there was and/or limited roads, which she among states on the Continent; it will any efforts. I believe, the most very little that the government rehabilitated and constructed more also attract significant FDI inflow, valuable asset of Africa is its people. of President Sirleaf Johnson did than 800km of paved excluding particularly market-seeking investors Natural resources underground are to better the lot of Liberians, on the ongoing Karloken- Harper high who would want to participate in the not what make a people great; the hindsight, do you believe that way and the Gbarnga to Menikorma expanded market of more than 1.4 capacity of the people to harness there was more or room for that High way in Liberia; reconstruction billion consumers. Once we begin to those resources makes them great. administration that you were and rehabilitation of many bridges harness the opportunities of AfCFTA, Our foremost challenge in Africa part of to do more? including the Johnson Street and the benefits of trading among today is the limited capacity of our B. Elias Shoniyin: Criticism that Waterside-Vai Town bridges; 2,103 African states will have a multiplier people. The more we can invest in our President Sirleaf did not do much in public schools rehabilitated or effects on promoting increased people, the more Africa’s future will her twelve-year tenure to bring about constructed, furnished and staffed; agriculture production and a lot of be assured. development in Liberia is unfair and five community colleges established intermediate manufacturing by small Thank you very much for the latently motivated. President Sirleaf’ in Grand Bassa, Bomi, Bong, Grand underdeveloped states, to support opportunity to share my perspectives inherited a country severely battered Gedeh, Lofa and Nimba Counties; largest industries on the Continent. on my country and our Continent, by fourteen years of fratricide construction of the Jackson F.Doe I believe that trading among us will Africa. violence. Sirleaf’s administration did Hospital in Tapeta, Nimba County, spur unprecedented prosperity in remarkably well with restoring Liberia and construction and rehabilitation of Africa. It is important that African to its prewar status. Considering the several hundreds clinic and hospitals countries be encouraged to formulate PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 29 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa Billions at Play The Future of African Energy and Doing Deals

by NJ AYUK

“Billions tells us the answer “Ayuk sees opportunity all “There is no stone left un- lies in the abundant, accessi- around him, and he realizes turned in Mr. Ayuk’s analysis ble and affordable natural gas that appropriate development of Africa and OPEC.” reserves that dot the will solve many of the conti- continent.” nent’s challenges, including MOHAMMAD SANUSI power generation.” BARKINDO JOÃO MARQUES Secretary General, OPEC. Energy analyst and Editor ANN NORMAN General Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa, Pioneer Energy

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30 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs French Court Faces a 'Stolen' African Artwork Dilemma By Prince Kurupati ne of the best places to learn about the intricacies of life is a Ocourtroom (of course, as part of the audience). Obviously, legality issues are central but in addition, other issues such as morality and philosophical questions do spring up from time to time. Recently, a French court found itself in the middle of a legal, moral and philosophical conundrum centered on African artwork plundered by colonizers and now kept in a European museum. The conundrum sprung up from a case in which a Congolese activist Emery Mwazulu Diyabanza and four other activists were charged with attempted theft by law enforcement authorities after they removed a 19th century African funeral pole from its perch in the Paris’ Quai Branly Museum. The activists however did not leave the museum with the pole as they were quickly stopped by the In his defence before the court, Diyabanza said that European nations had an obligation to guards. return all of the ill gotten treasures to their respective nations. After being apprehended, the to a crime or just a political statement should have chosen to air their views funeral pole incident and not to dwell activists stated that they never had is the court. in a more peaceful manner. much on France’s history with its any intentions of leaving the museum Speaking before the court, the In his defense before the court, former colonies as “his court wasn’t premises with the funeral pole as lawyer representing the Paris’ Quai Diyabanza said that European competent to judge France’s colonial their actions were simply meant at Branly Museum, Yvon Goutal argued nations had an obligation to return era as a whole”. calling attention to the origins of the that all of the holdings inside the all of the ill-gotten treasures to their The judge is set to make his pole. The fact that the activists did museum including tens of thousands respective nations. He said that judgment on 14 October. If convicted, livestream all their actions inside of artworks from former colonies all European countries were benefitting the activists face up to 10 years in the museum on Facebook does belonged to the French State. This was financially from the ‘stolen’ artworks prison and a 150,000 euro fine. The corroborate their side of the story as vehemently denied by the activists while the countries of origin of the judge may however be lenient as the they would be simply half-witted to and other members of the audience artworks were wallowing in poverty. lawyer for the state did not ask for film themselves committing a crime. who were in support of the activists. Hakim Chergui, the lawyer prison time, demanding only modest In the eyes of the museum and law One woman from the audience went representing the activists argues fines. enforcement agents, the actions taken to the extent of shouting “It belongs that France should not have taken The trial comes at a time when by the activists’ amount to attempted to us!” during the court session before such a long time as it did to initiate there are increased calls globally for theft and as such, the way to go is to she stormed out of the courtroom. discussions on returning plundered former colonial masters to atone for charge and prosecute them. However, Goutal went on to state that even treasures to African countries. He said all their colonial-era wrongs. the activists view their actions as if the act is a political statement, its this has led to growing “frustration in The Quai Branly Museum which nothing criminal but just a political timing is very wrong as it has the the population” which is “growing, is located on the banks of the Seine statement meant at raising awareness potential to derail the discussions growing, growing”. River near the Eiffel Tower is home on the origins of the artwork inside that are already underway between Speaking after the two sides had to numerous pieces of non-European the European museum. Finding itself France and African governments. presented their arguments, the art. France in recent times has taken at the centre tasked with determining Instead of taking the actions that they presiding judge said that the focus of initiative to give back art to African whether the activists’ actions amount did, Goutal stated that the activists the trial has to centre on the specific countries on request.

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32 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs On Bakassi Cameroon Denies Owing Any Financial Compensation to Nigeria By Amos Fofung ontrary to claims by Nigerian former aviation Minister, CFemi Fani-Kanyode and some pressure groups, the Green Tree Accord, a copy of which has been obtained by this reporter, clearly stipulates that Nigeria is not entitled to any financial compensation for ceding Bakassi Peninsula to Cameroon. For some time now, the controversial former Nigerian politician Femi Fani-Kanyode who served in several capacities under President Olusegun Obasanjo has being campaigning for current president, Muhammadu Buhari to cease the oil rich Bakassi Peninsula, which was ceded to Cameroon by Nigeria after the 2002 International Minister Felix Mbayu describes claims from people like Fani Kayode as outrageous , mere Court of Justice ruling. political grandstanding, and cheap propaganda. He claims Cameroon is not respecting clauses of the agreement – “political grandstanding and cheap “First off I would suggest that you document was so carefully worded that one of them being the paying of over propaganda”. share within your networks and as none of the words COMPENSATION, 500 Million Naira monthly to Nigeria. “Mr Mbom thanks for reaching widely as possible, the complete SELF-DETERMINATION or Accusations that have been out and I am happy to debunk the version of the historic GREENTREE REFERENDUM appears in any part highly debunk by the Cameroonian unfounded claims you are alluding Agreement which still stands of the entire text.” government. Speaking to Mbom to. I see these actions as political out as one of the most ingenious “I would also like to call your Sixtus, for Pan African Visions , grandstanding and cheap propaganda documentation on concurrence attention to the title of the document Cameroon’s Minister Delegate to from a foreign official who is well of vision in the modern history of “agreement between the Republic of the Ministry of External Relations informed of the robustness of the international boundary disputes- Cameroon and the Federal Republic in charge of Relations with the relations between Nigeria and land and or maritime. The astute of Nigeria concerning the modalities Commonwealth, Felix Mbayu says Cameroon. Relations which are statesmanship of their Excellencies of withdrawal and transfer of the claims are outrageous and mere rooted in mutual trust and respect.” Olusegun Obasanjo and Paul Biya authority in the Bakassi Peninsula, as well as the lucent a lucid prescription of modalities leadership of Late Kofi not conditions for WITHDRAWAL Annan (MHSRIP) are and TRANSFER of authority not written all over the EXPECTED AUTONOMY,” he agreement.” pointed out. Quizzed on if there According to our sources in are any such grounds Nigeria’s political capital, Abuja, or clause that entitle Fani-Kayode who served as Special Nigeria to financial Assistant (Public Affairs) to President compensation over Olusegun Obasanjo from July Bakassi Peninsula, the 2003 until June 2006 when he Cameroon statesman was appointed Minister of Culture added “a quick and Tourism and later Minister perusal of the 7-page of Aviation has been galvanizing document (includes a Nigerian politicians to throw weight 3-page annex) enables behind his idea for Nigeria to retake any literate person to Bakassi Peninsula. UN SG Kofi Annan , Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, and Paul completely debunk all Some weeks ago, a video of Femi Biya of Cameroon at the signature of accords ceding the Bakassi Peninsular the three claims you went viral across social media to Cameroon. UN Photo Eskinder Debebe. mentioned. In fact, the platform where he could be heard PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 33 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa indicting Cameroon for not respecting wealth that will go to Cameroon… it back, and holding it and telling the While war between Cameroon certain provisions of the Green-Tree and finally and most importantly, the Cameroonians, this was not done and Nigeria was averted over the oil Accord. He accused Cameroonian aspect of self-determination, that is lawfully, this was not done in the right rich Peninsula, there are still many authorities of not granting the people a plebiscite in a referendum ought way and if you really want it, then the aggrieved parties and the potential of Bakassi their fundamental right to to have been conducted,” the former government really has to do the right for conflict remains real. Many self-determination and paying annual minister and influential politician thing.” Nigerians have never digested the fact financial compensation to Nigeria said. His remarks have prompted that Cameroon prevailed when the which according to him was stated in He explained that it was agreed that several pressure groups in Nigeria dispute was taken for international the Greentree accord. a plebiscite will be conducted as part to take up his ideology. One of such arbitration. On the other hand, the “I am telling you as at today, the of the conditions. “It was never done. groups is Save Nigeria Movement Cameroon government has never National Assembly did not ratify this On those basis, I say it again, loud (SNM), which is calling on President been in any hurry to embark on move, the ceding of our territory. and clear that if I were in president Muhammadu Buhari to set up a development projects around the The next three compensations have Buhari’s shoes; If I was president of judicial commission of inquiry to area. With Ambazonian separatists not been paid. It was agreed that this country today, my priority today probe the circumstances that led to also laying claim to the territory, the 500million naira would be paid per will be to reunite Nigeria by sending the decision of ceding the oil rich last may not have been heard of the month as the consequence of the oil our forces into that place and taking Bakassi peninsula to Cameroun. Bakassi Peninsula. Rwanda: Will UN, other International Bodies rescue Paul Rusesabagina from terrorism charges? By Mohammed M. Mupenda he Rwandan critic, whose role during the Rwandan Tgenocide against the Tutsis was fictionalized in the well-known movie Hotel Rwanda, has been the subject of controversy ever since. Mr. Rusesabagina appeared last month under arrest in Kigali in murky circumstances, with his family alleging he was kidnapped from Dubai. According to Rwandan Authorities, he was arrested because he is believed to be the leader, founder and sponsor of a violent extremist group operating in Rwanda and more widely, known as MRCD/FLN. The international arrest warrant under which he has been detained included accusations that in June and July 2018 in Nyungwe, and Terrorism charges have been slammed against Paul Rusesabagina .Photo credit AFP. in December 2018 in Nyamagabe, attacks by the MRCD/FLN were Calls demanding fair justice have “Mr. Rusesabagina is currently Rusesabagina›s case would be serious, carried out against innocent Rwandan been made by U.S Senator, European detained provisionally for at least 30 and some of the reasons being that Mr. civilians which left nine people dead Parliament, Rusesabagina Hotel days after he was denied bail, pending Rusesabagina has Belgian citizenship, and several seriously injured. Rwanda Foundation, oppositions his trial,”. U.S residence permit and has been Prior to his arrest there were videos and on 8 September UN urged to Well, UN call, human right awarded the US Presidential Medal of featuring him and he was heard on intervene in case of detained Hotel monitoring and other super power Freedom. However, many observers BBC radio talk calling all political and Rwanda dissident. countries intervention could still give say that these can›t save him out, civil society organizations to support Through the Clooney Foundation hope to his family, dissidents and due to Rusesabagina-led rebel attacks FLN soldiers to oust the Kigali for Justice and the American Bar others who wish to see Rusesabagina that killed Rwandans, burned their government through waging war as Association Center for Human Rights, free but still not sure of how it will be property, looted their crops and took political means had failed. George and Amal Clooney have done while terrorism charges are not some hostages. Nsabimana Callixte However, some human rights and made a pledge to closely monitor the welcome in any country. and Rusesabagina admitted in legal groups have expressed concern upcoming trial of Paul Rusesabagina For various newspapers both various media outlets that the attacks that his arrest is the latest example of in Rwanda, as part of CFJ’s Trial Rwandan and foreign, people’s killed civilians. Rwanda targeting critics. Watch initiative. talk, comments believe that When Nsabimana was arrested and 34 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs brought to justice, he pleaded guilty alert, and that they were aware of the for all charges saying that even the perpetrators of the terrorist attacks birds could testify. which are FLN soldiers, whose Mr. Rusesabagina also commander was based in the USA. acknowledged that his rebellions The case of Nsabimana Callixte killed people and apologized. who pleaded guilty to all the charges “I apologise, we never assigned against him and even wished that FLN to kill people and that was not his case would be reconciled with the mission,” he said noting that their those of Rusesabagina and Herman actions should be blamed on them because all the charges against FLN alone. are fully involved. He admitted to sending some 20,000 euros ($23,000) to FLN In multiple speeches, Rusesabagina commander Callixte Nsabimana - Paul Rusesabagina at his cell in the Remera Metropolitan expressed support for the FLN - which Police Station, Kigali, Rwanda on September 3, 2020. who is on trial on similar charges - but has carried out armed attacks and is said this was personal assistance to a as follows, Rusesabagina has against him came from there, and described as a terrorist organisation friend and not for rebel activities Rwandan citizenship by birth, the FBI had also conducted a thorough by Rwanda - but the extent of his Mr. Herman Hirwa Nsengimana, crimes is accused of committing are investigation into all the information involvement in its actions remains the successor to Nsabimana Callixte on Rwandan soil, the prosecutor also from his indictment. unclear. A.k.a Sankara was seen in the video pointed out that before Rusesabagina It’s worth noting that when the FLN *Mohammed M. Mupenda is a conference included Rusesabagina, was arrested there was a collaboration attacks reached Rwandan territory, news correspondent and freelance who was in the lead, also co-chaired between Belgian police and the U.S the US Embassy in the United States reporter, who has written for the FLN, becoming the Supreme Federal Bureau of Investigation(FBI), issued a statement saying that some publications in the United States and Leader. Rusesabagina›s home in Belgium was parts of Rwanda were unsafe and abroad. He is also a French and East Other reasons could be summarised searched and some of the evidence that their residents were on high African language interpreter. Sustained Efforts Needed To Boast Brazil-Africa Relations -Prof Joao Monte By Ajong Mbapndah L ustained efforts are needed this year, but because of the situation to maximize the enormous of the pandemic, we had to change it Spotentials of stronger ties for next year. between Brazil and says Prof João PAV: One of your flagship Bosco Monte ,President of the Brazil programmes is the Brazil-Africa African Institute- IBRAF. Speaking forum, and the 2020 edition is in a skype interview to discuss the scheduled for November 3-4, upcoming Brazil-Africa forum, of how prepared is the institute to the flagship programmes of the host this event this year. IBRAF, Prof Monte says the similarity Professor Joao Monte: The forum is between the South American country one of the tools we have to engage, to and Africa are too many with put together Brazilians and Africans. ample opportunities for win-win In the last seven editions of the cooperation. forum we discussed many things, PAV: Dr Monte good morning topics, brought so many high-level and thanks for talking to Pan authorities from Brazil and Africa. Under Prof Monte the IBRAF has been a vital link between African Visions More and, more, we are engaging with Brazil and Africa Professor Joao Monte: It is a people from outside Brazil and Africa. pleasure to talk with you, my friend. kind of synergies and activities that came to the idea to have the institute. The idea is to promote the forum and PAV: Let’s start with an both sides could do together. I see a This is the idea we had for the have leaders from many parts of the introduction of the Brazil- link between the two regions, Brazil institute ten years ago, and now it is world to present their ideas, and have Africa Institute that you lead. and the African continent, not only found in many states in Brazil. Two- their voices heard. This year we are Can you give an introduction of because of the history; geography but years-ago we opened one office in going to celebrate the tenth year of that institute for us? because I see a potential similarity Accra, Ghana. We are thinking to have the institute and, in the beginning, Professor Joao Monte: When I between both places. When I saw the one more antenna of the institute, and we wanted to have the forum with founded the institute 10-years-ago the possibility to interact, I understood we are trying to understand when and a physical presence, so, people idea was to give Brazilians to see what that we could do things together and where it will be. The idea was to do it come into Brazil. But because of the PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 35 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

pandemic, we needed to change, and it will be 100 % virtual. The event won›t be a webinar; it is a well-prepared event. We have participants from Africa, Brazil and other regions, and the topic we are going to talk about will be «How the world will behave after the pandemic» because we are now facing an important moment, but, we need to understand how the world will act after the pandemic is important. Brazil and Africa should be together again, and we are going to discuss opportunities for Brazil and Africa during the forum this year. PAV: Looking back ten years is quite some time. If you were, to sum up, the achievements you have recorded, what progress have you seen in the ten years you have been doing this? Professor Joao Monte: Just to clarify that the institute has ten-years The Youth Technical Training Program is one of the IBRAF programmes working well to cement cooperation ties between Brazil and Africa already, but the forum has eight- years - we are now coming to the President at AfDB, Michael Kremer, unique. We had a few companies mandate and what we have now. eighth edition of the forum. It is not 2019 Nobel Prize Economist, Dr from Brazil which have built The current President did not point easy to summarize in a short time Denis Mukwege, 2018 Nobel Peace roads, airports, ports and other Africa as President Lula did in the what we have done in eight years of Prize Laureate, and others. We are infrastructure activities and, they will past but now, we can still harness the event. I remember in 2016 I put bringing something else which is be again in the forum. I am sure this what President Lula said in 2003. He together two Ministers the Minister the launch of the initiative relating will be a contribution we can bring to said: «Africa will be a priority for this of Agriculture of Brazil and the to business and investment between the movement in engaging the two government», and it was a reality as Minister of Agriculture of Nigeria Brazil and Africa that is something for regions. In the area of education, we he travelled to Africa many times with to discuss opportunity possibilities us in the coming years. are going to have experts to discuss his Ministers. The current President that this initiative that we engage at PAV: With regards to the theme what they are doing, and this can be of Brazil did not say anything about the Brazil-Africa forum at that time for this year that is: «what an opportunity for interacting in this having Africa as a priority but, from could have. Our mandate is to be a next after the pandemic», in area. the voice of the Vice-President, we catalyser, a facilitator, and I think what areas do you cooperation PAV: May we know how the can have an important message that is what is there to promote the between Brazil and Africa in current President of Brazil that Africa was not erased from the meeting between both sides of Brazil meeting the next challenges? is doing to forging stronger core of the government. I am not and Africa. We brought personalities Professor Joao Monte: We are bonds between Africa and a government official, so, I cannot to the event that brought ideas, which going to bring the President of Fiocruz any comparison with his talk on behalf of the government was the beginning of something as we - a Brazilian government company predecessors in this regard? but, looking from outside I see that had a Brazilian company that is now relating to the production of vaccines. Professor Joao Monte: Last year the voice of the Vice President was doing projects in Rwanda, Kenya and They will produce the next year we brought to the event the Vice- good to announce that we can still do Ghana. They came to the forum, used millions of vaccines for Brazilians and President of Brazil. He opened the things together. the platform to engage with partners also for the African context. Brazil-Africa forum in 2019. It was I have spoken to private sector key and then we now see positive results. Health is one of the areas I am good to hear from him that he was personalities, and they say Africa is on PAV: And for the 2020 forum very sure we can contribute to using planning to come to Africa – he was their radar and they want to do things may we know some of the the platform of the forum but also planning to visit Africa this year in with Africa. But we need to put more highlights and personalities Agriculture. As I said, we are going to March but because of the pandemic people together to engage more and that will be answering present? have the commission on Agriculture and the borders we closed He could more, and this is good for the Brazil- Professor Joao Monte: The forum from AU. We are going to have not travel – what I am saying is that Africa Institute because we have this year like I said is on how the the foreign Minister of Agriculture when he mentioned that Africa could the best connections to put things world will behave after the pandemic, from Brazil during Lula›s time. be a part of the Brazilian agenda I together, Brazilians and Africans. and we have already confirmed So, agriculture is again another understand that this is something PAV: During the recent crisis some important participations. We possibility of discussion. special, but we should not compare at the AfDB you spoke out have Jennifer Blanke, former Vice- Infrastructure is something very what we had during President Lula’s forcefully in support of Dr 36 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs (Akinwumi) Adesina, Programme, where we bring and he was re-elected young Africans to receive for another four-year technical training, very sharp mandate. Firstly, are and direct training in areas you happy with his re- that Brazil again is doing well, election and secondly in succeeding and when they go what areas do you see back home, they are easy to prospects to engage with deploy with the knowledge the AfDB in meeting some they have received in Brazil. of the objectives of the These youths stay in Brazil for Brazil-Africa Institute? up to two weeks – we started Professor Joao Monte: I am this programme in 2017 and, happy with the re-election, this year we had to reschedule, and I understand what he did and the first group was for his first term but, he will supposed to arrive in April need more time to continue but had to be rescheduled to give more visibility and for February. We are in the bring more results for what process of selecting people, he planned to do. I supported Not even the challenges of COVID 19 could stop Prof Monte and the IBRAF and something new we learnt him because I understand from holding the Brazil Africa Forum, now in its eigth year from this moment is the use of his voice is important for the technology. We have launched Africa context and he brings to and see what we have in front of us to see the results of the engagements a programme called Online the table the idea that Africa needs to people will not see the potentials. The of the group of champions including Platform Learning, and we will be change not only to receive things from bank is playing an important role, myself. starting next year. We are finalizing outside but that Africa should engage but I think the conversation should PAV: We would like to round the preparation of this programme. and work together with partners - be more precise, and the initiative of up with what you plan to do What is going to be the future something which is very important the bank with Brazil should be more next after the Brazil-Africa between Brazil and Africa? It is not for the continent and the people. The aggressive and precise. I hope that in forum, what other initiatives easy to say that the relations will be agenda of the bank is very wide; the his second term he could put more will you be working on, and strong or diminish. But understand reduction and elimination of poverty attention to the Brazilian context. what perspectives do you see what we are doing, your job and my are important to mention but I think PAV: In the build-up to the for the future of Brazil-Africa job, it is to keep talking, thinking and there is one direction which he is forum coming up in November, relations? dreaming as without dreaming we doing which is related to Agriculture. news came up indicating that Professor Joao Monte: The Brazil- cannot go far. The situation is not Because of his background as the you had been appointed as Africa Institute has many activities easy - it is difficult. If I looked back ten former Minister of Agriculture for a champion of the UN Food besides the Brazil-Africa forum years ago, it was impossible to achieve Nigeria he knows what he is saying Summit by the UN Special envoy which is important for us. Of course, the things we have now. We need to when he is talking about Agriculture. for Food System Summit. What this year has been a difficult year leave the message to the people that Specifically, from the Brazilian does this appointment mean for for everybody as we had to reinvent it is possible to engage Brazil and context agriculture is one of the main you and what do you think you ourselves - we could not travel and Africa, and we should be together. We assets that we have in this discussion. can bring to the table? meet people and so it was not easy to cannot do things alone; we should be If you look back at Brazil four years Professor Joao Monte: I am do everything we planned last year for together to go far. I am very optimist ago, you will see maybe the same very honoured to be appointed as this year. One of the activities we have and realistic as well for what is going situation that is in other parts of a champion of the Food System going is the fellowship programme, to happen tomorrow, but I am very Africa. We used to import foods, crops Summit for 2021. We need to give we bring researchers from Africa to sure that if we stay quiet, and calm, but now Brazil is one of the biggest people the food that they need. I just stay in Brazil for up to two months too many things will not happen. That exporters of food and commodities mentioned that Brazil is producing under my supervision to do research, is why we should act precisely with in the world (maize, corn, soybeans, more food than before which is very bringing to the world some experience strategy. sugar and others). We have so many important, but we need to see how that Brazil is doing well in the South- PAV: Professor Monte thanks so possibilities of producing in Africa we can again work together. Being South Cooperation platform. We much for talking to Pan African what we are producing in Brazil and appointed as a champion of the Food can have health, education science, Visions and keep the doors open the AfDB plays an important role. System is the opportunity to raise innovation, agriculture and so this is when we come again next time. From outside I think the bank our voice amongst others to bring something we are still doing, and we Professor Joao Monte: Thank you can work more with Brazil in terms benefit to the people, especially poor launched a call last month and is still very much for your time, and I look of attracting Brazilian voices, people in Africa and Brazil. With the running until 12 of October, and they forward to engaging more and more entrepreneurs, businesspeople to experience we can bring from Brazil, will arrive in February/March next with you. Thanks again. Africa. One thing I would like to I think we can help put some realities year. mention is if we do not take the in the African context. We just started Also, we have «YTTP» which opportunity to invite people to come, this discussion, but I am very excited is Youth Technical Training PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 37 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

38 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Health Expert Praises Africa's Fight Against Coronavirus By Amos Fofung he head of the Africa Earlier this year, the Africa Center for Disease CDC boss had via a webinar TControl (CDC), Dr. analyzed response from John Nkengasong has praised the continent since the first African states for managing to case was reported in Egypt curb the spread of coronavirus on February 14, 2020. To which has ravaged the rest of him, African states prompt the world leaving millions of response to the outbreak of people dead. the novel coronavirus in the Africa has seen about 1.4 continent has greatly reduced million cases and 34,000 the impact of the outbreak in deaths since February – this the continent as opposed to is contrary to predictions by elsewhere in the world. Western governments who The health webinar which though Africa will be hardest sought to assets coronavirus hit by the outbreak. impact on the African The infection and death and how the diaspora can rate figures across Africa effectively assist the continent are far lower than those in Early interventions played a crucial role in curbing the virus› spread, was attended among others Europe, Asia or the Americas. says Africa CDC head John Nkengasong. by representatives from the Early interventions played Constituency for Africa, a crucial role in curbing the virus› «scaling up testing and following up Furthermore, the emphasis on allafrica.com, Harvard University, spread, Africa CDC head John contact tracing and very importantly community-driven initiatives, and foreign investment network and Nkengasong told the BBC›s Newsday masking», or the wearing of face experience in contact-tracing from the US Chair of congressional programme recently. masks. fighting diseases like Ebola, had black Caucus who doubles as chair The continent of more than one «In many countries, including helped countries to tackle the virus, of the house of representatives billion people accounts for just under Ethiopia where I live, if you go to he said. subcommittee on Africa Global 5% of cases globally and 3.6% of the streets of Addis Ababa you will «This virus is in the community, Health among others. deaths. Dr Nkengasong described as see there is almost 100% masking,» and without a strong community Presenting quantitative data on the «false» suggestions that cases and he added saying Africa›s relatively response and strong community impact in Africa, the least hit habited deaths in Africa were significantly young population also contributed to engagement there is no chance we can continent, Dr. John Nkengasong under-reported. the low number of cases. fight it,» Dr Nkengasong added. Director of Africa Centers for Disease «We may not have been Control did not mince word picking up all the cases, just when he stated that “globally like in other parts of the we are at war with covid-19”. world... but we are not seeing A war he went ahead to people around the continent emphasized “must be won”. falling dead on the streets or On measures taken by mass burials going on,» Dr African CDC, Dr. Nkengasong Nkengasong said. during the webinar said, African states introduced a “once we knew that we series of measures to tackle were at risk, we trained the virus as soon as the first technicians to conduct cases were reported. Many, surveillance and airport including South Africa, training, trained countries on introduced nationwide risk communication, clinical lockdowns, but others such as care, and management, used Ethiopia opted for less strict 3 weeks to train and armed measures. health experts on surveillance Dr Nkengasong, however, and how to test patients and attributed the low number medical response among to a «joint continental A health worker checks the temperature of a traveller in coronavirus screening at others.” Kotoka International Airport, Accra, Ghana. Photo Francis Kokoroko, REUTERS. effort», which focused on PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 39 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa Aid for Sex Rampant in Uganda: UN Report By Prince Kurupati n expose by a investigations.’’ whistleblower has Speaking to The New Arevealed rampant Humanitarian, Malango said acts of sexual exploitation that the allegations on sexual by United Nations workers misconduct by UN staff are working in Uganda. The serious and investigations are expose singled out a United already underway. However, Nations Population Fund she said she is not in a (UNFPA) staffer who used position to say much as she his position to sexually abuse is awaiting the whole process and exploit a “female victim”. to be completed before At the same time, the expose speaking authoritatively. also revealed a more general Malango said the “concerned pattern of rampant sexual agencies are dealing with the misconduct by UN staff issue…Internal procedures working at the World Food are under way and we cannot Programme compound in the comment until the facts have town of Moroto, Uganda’s been established…These are poorest region. allegations which need to be Following the expose by space as well as sleeping quarters. There is no place for any form of investigated.” the whistleblower, the UN’s Office The compound is located in one of sexual harassment, exploitation, or Sensible as Malango’ statement is, of Internal Oversight Services Uganda’s poorest regions. According abuse at the World Food Programme, she however has received criticism opened an inquiry earlier this month to the WFP, more than 500 000 including by non-WFP staff residing from a group of UN staff. In an email (September) to investigate and people living in Moroto are in critical at compounds managed by WFP in to The New Humanitarian, the group potentially prosecute those fingered need of food assistance. the field.” said Malango’s email to the heads of as culprits. Speaking after the expose by the The UN’s Resident Coordinator in UN agencies contained “confidential In the expose, the whistleblower whistleblower, WFP’s Nairobi based Uganda, Rosa Malango did weigh in and sensitive information” which highlighted that there was a rather regional spokesperson, Amanda on the issue as she sent an email to all should “never have been circulated unfortunate pattern of gross Lawrence-Brown said, “We have UN heads of agencies in the country to internal email groups.” The group sexual misconduct amongst UN been informed of the allegations stating, “I look forward to the updates further said that Malango’s email was staff working at the World Food made against UN staff residing at from UN heads on action taken so far a plot on her part to play politics and Programme compound in the town the compound managed by WFP including the immediate suspension divert attention away from her own of Moroto. The expose revealed that in Moroto and are investigating… of staff pending the conclusions of “incompetence”. a significant proportion of UN staff at The email sent to The New the WFP compound was demanding Humanitarian by the group used a sex from local women in exchange for suggestive title, “Uganda the next food. Some even went to the extent Haiti for the UN.” This in reference of hiring sex workers whom they to the Oxfam scandal in Haiti which brought into the compound breaching saw the British NGO being accused UN security protocol regulations. of covering up claims of sexual Reports of entry into the compound exploitation by its staff to the victims by sex workers has also put private of the 2010 earthquake. guards at the compound in a dilemma In her defense, Malango said that as all visitors to the base are supposed her email was never supposed to be to be vetted before entry into the shared externally. premises. The recent scandal is not the first The reports of gross sexual time that UN agencies have found misconduct as revealed by the themselves under scrutiny in Uganda. whistleblower were corroborated In 2019, at least four people died by some of the staff working at the while more than 300 got sick after compound that preferred to speak on eating WFP fortified cereal. The condition of anonymity. incident happened in the Karamoja The World Food Programme The allegations on sexual misconduct by UN staff are serious and region. compound in Moroto is home to investigations are already underway, says Rosa Malango, UN Resident Coordinator. several UN staff as it provides office 40 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs

PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 41 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa 60 Years After Independence Nigeria's Energy Industry Hasn't Realized Its Promise — But It's Getting Closer While getting Nigeria to the point where it can realize the full potential of its petroleum resources has been slow going, the country appears to be on the right track By NJ Ayuk*

Mele Kolo Kyari, Managing Director of the NNPC,OPEC SG Mohammad Barkindo , and Minister of Petroleum Timipre Sylva.

n Oct. 1, 1960, everything degradation and dwindling means closer than ever to passage. Nigeria Just like I believe that Nigeria’s seemed possible for Nigeria: of supporting themselves. Instead of is working to monetize its natural oil and gas are key to improving OAfter nearly 80 years of using its oil revenue to strengthen gas resources, and we’re seeing great the country’s future, I see that colonialism under Great Britain, it other sectors and diversify the interest in the latest marginal field mismanagement of these resources was finally an independent nation. economy, Nigeria has made oil bidding round. has contributed to many of its During the newly independent its primary source of government So like those who celebrated their struggles. Too many times during the nation’s earliest days, there was every revenue. In recent decades, instability nation’s independence in 1960, I’m last 60 years, Nigeria’s government reason for Nigerians to envision a in the region has only worsened and hopeful about Nigeria’s future. My has missed opportunities to channel bright future for themselves and contributed to the rise of terrorist optimism might be tempered a bit the country’s oil and gas resources their country, one in which Nigeria’s groups like Boko Haram. by Nigeria’s unresolved challenges, into economic growth. It has been vast oil and gas reserves would I still believe that 60 years of including continuing concerns about particularly frustrating to see deliver widespread prosperity. One of independence is an important government transparency, but it has Nigeria — with natural gas reserves stability and growth. milestone. We still have much to not by any means been extinguished. at an estimated 185 trillion cubic Tragically, Nigeria’s story moved in celebrate, including a future in which I truly believe that Nigeria can learn feet — struggle with energy poverty. a different direction. Yes, there was a we can right the wrongs of our past. from its mistakes, take a strategic Only about 45% of Nigerians have brief period of economic growth, but While getting Nigeria to the point approach to the opportunities before electricity, and even those with access that was followed by multiple coups, where it can realize the full potential it, and create a country where all to the power grid deal with regular civil war, military rule, corruption, of its petroleum resources has been Nigerians can begin a chapter of power outages. and poverty. Instead of helping slow going, the country appears to safety and prosperity. Nigeria’s Again, weak governance plays a everyday Nigerians, the country’s be on the right track. As I write this, energy industry can realize its full role in this. Violence and security oil wealth went to an elite few in Nigeria’s long-awaited Petroleum promise. issues, and Nigeria’s reputation for power while leaving communities, Industry Bill (PIB) — intended to corruption, have slowed Nigeria’s particularly those in the Niger bring transparency and new life to Nigeria is Rich in Resources, ability to develop sufficient power Delta, to deal with environmental the country’s oil and gas sector — is Poor in Policy plants and hindered foreign 42 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs

investment infrastructure. Meanwhile, Nigeria is paying a steep cost for its power shortages: about $28 billion or 2% of Nigeria’s gross domestic product, as lack of power impedes Nigerian entrepreneurship, private investment, and job creation. I’m certain that Nigeria could bring reliable power to more people by harnessing its natural gas resources. And, to its credit, the government has been talking in recent years about putting an end to Nigeria’s costly and wasteful natural gas flaring — more than 276 billion cubic feet of natural gas was burned off from Nigeria’s oil fields between September 2018 and September 2019 alone — and capitalizing on this valuable resource. But up to now, Nigeria’s progress on this front has moved at an agonizingly slow pace. The government, for instance, set a Zero Routine Flaring Mele Kolo Kyari ,Managing Director of the NNPC , and Minister of Petroleum Timipre Sylva. target for 2020 but announced in August that it will not be able to reach natural resources than ever before. promote transparency in Nigeria’s round in nearly two decades. Marginal its goal. It also has failed to set a new And if the country can do that, it will administration of petroleum fields hold discovered resources that goal. be well on its way to a better future. resources. have been left unattended for more Then there is the issue of corruption, Putting the oil industry on than 10 years. Nigeria is offering 57 which has fed into dangerous chain All is Not Lost – Far From It strong footing also could give the fields with total resources estimated reactions. In 1966 and 1967, shortly While there’s no guarantee that government more room to maneuver at about 800 million barrels of oil and after Nigeria gained its independence, Nigeria’s PIB will become law this when it comes to resolving problems 4.5 trillion cubic feet of gas. Already, corruption was used to justify coups year, it has reached an important in the Niger Delta — including interest in the marginal fields has that led to civil war, and ultimately, to milestone: President Muhammadu environmental concerns, lack of been high, and this could be just the military rule for nearly three decades. Buhari approved an updated version economic opportunities, crime, and jumpstart Nigeria needs to rekindle More recently, frustration over of the bill and presented it to the militant activity — and implementing interest in the country’s untapped corruption has eroded confidence National Assembly Sept. 28 for reforms to restrain the advance of resources. in local governments, which in turn, their approval. Both chambers of Boko Haram. If oil and gas production I also find it encouraging that has made it easier for terrorist group, the National Assembly have to pass stabilize, for example, Nigeria’s Nigeria has moved a step closer to Boko Haram, to radicalize and recruit the bill before it can be sent to the government will be better positioned natural gas monetization through the young Nigerians. What’s more, president for his final signature. to create jobs in the region, both in Department of Petroleum Resources’ corruption and mismanagement If it is passed, the PIB would be petroleum and other sectors, which creation of the Nigerian Gas Flare in Nigeria’s security sector have transformational for Nigeria’s oil likely would contribute to greater Commercialization Program. Proper hampered Nigeria’s ability to and gas industry and, ultimately, stability there. More investment by channeling of flared gas could impact effectively protect Nigerians from for the country as a whole. It would IOCs also could lead to much-needed the country’s gross domestic product Boko Haram. play a vital role in addressing the infrastructure in the area, educational by up to $1 billion per year, the This year, with Nigeria’s economy inefficiencies plaguing the Nigerian and job-training programs for locals, department estimates. It could create dealing with the one-two punch of National Petroleum Corporation and environmental initiatives. up to 300,000 jobs, produce 600,000 the COVID-19 pandemic and low oil (NNPC), from slow approval for oil And greater oil and gas revenue — million tons of liquefied petroleum prices, decisive government action projects to budget shortfalls that followed by economic growth and gas per year, and generate 2,5 is more critical than ever. As of late hinder its ability to pursue public- diversification — would help Nigeria gigawatts of power. I commend the August, the economy had contracted private partnerships. What’s more, to fund the security resources it needs federal government for creating this by 6.1%, and 27% of Nigeria’s labor the bill would create a supportive to enforce anti-terrorism measures. program. Next, Nigeria needs to put force was unemployed. environment for both IOCs and The PIB’s progress is good news, but in place the legislation, infrastructure, I want to be clear: I’m not indigenous petroleum companies, it’s not the only reason I’m optimistic and pricing regulations necessary to saying that Nigeria’s problems are help protect the environment and for Nigeria. The government also make commercialization possible. insurmountable. Not in the least. In the interests of host communities, deserves praise for launching, Nigeria already has successful fact, Nigeria is better positioned to support economic diversification in through the Department of Petroleum liquified natural gas (LNG) projects start strategically capitalizing on its Nigeria, and critically important, Resources, its first marginal field bid in place — just this year, Nigeria LNG PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 43 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

Ltd. signed a $3 billion corporate both Timipre Sylva as a friend and its own destiny — and to choose the He was absolutely right. loan to finance the construction of Mele Kyari as a colleague for a very path it takes to improve its future. its seventh LNG train — and with the long time,” Barkindo said last year. Nigeria must be the one to map out Nigeria needs revenue to resolve right policies, they can be even more “I had worked with both, and I know and executive its energy transition. its challenges, and that revenue is beneficial. that if they work together, they will And it must do it on its own within Nigeria’s reach. With the Also working in Nigeria’s favor make a good team that will provide timetable. And Nigeria already is, by necessary legislation in place, Nigeria has been the country’s membership the leadership and the corporation the way, beginning to embrace green can revitalize and capitalize upon its in OPEC. Not only has OPEC played that the industry requires.” The technologies. With a $350 million oil industry. And instead of flaring its a critical role in stabilizing global oil cooperation and respect among these World Bank loan, Nigeria plans to abundant gas to power, Nigeria can prices through production cuts this leaders can only work in Nigeria’s build 10,000 solar-powered mini- start using it to power households year, it also has been working to secure favor. grids by 2023. The government also and businesses. To provide feedstock the fair value of member countries’ is investing in hydropower projects, for petrochemicals and help diversify oil resources with the understanding Nigeria’s Independence Must including the $5.79 billion Mambilla the economy. The gas can even play that a thriving petroleum industry Be Respected Power Station in central Nigeria. a valuable role in Nigeria’s energy contributes to economic growth and As Nigeria takes measures to All of those projects can work hand transition by providing revenue for improved standards of living. I believe revamp its petroleum industry, in hand to contribute to Nigeria’s green initiatives. Nigeria’s membership in the OPEC leaders should be prepared to stand economic growth. No one should be All of this is possible, Nigeria Fund for International Development, their ground against external forces pressuring Nigeria to miss out on the simply needs the kind of legislation a multilateral development finance eager to remake Nigeria’s future many benefits its petroleum resources and policies that are conducive for institution that targets key projects – in the image they want for it. I’m offer. And today, when the country is business to thrive. One of the best primarily in energy, transportation, referring to western environmental finally moving toward harnessing its ways Nigeria could celebrate its 60th agriculture, water, education, and groups intent on influencing is how oil and gas resources in a way that anniversary as an independent nation health —will be beneficial as well. Nigeria, and other African countries, could truly benefit everyday Africans, would be to finally put those measures It has been encouraging as well transition from fossil fuel production it would be heartbreaking to see non- in place. to observe the fantastic working to sustainable energy sources. Many Africans knock Nigeria off-course. *SOURCE African Energy relationship among OPEC Secretary have been pressuring investors to Chamber. NJ Ayuk, is Executive General Mohammad Barkindo, stop supporting oil and gas projects Nigeria is So Close Chairman, of the African Minister of State for Petroleum in Africa to prevent climate change. Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Energy Chamber Resources Chief Timipre Sylva, and Frankly, they need to back off. Nigeria’s first prime minister, had NNPC Group Managing Director Nigeria is celebrating 60 years of this to say about an independent Mele Kyari. In fact, Barkindo recently independence. This is not the time Nigeria: “Our political advance will expressed a strong vote of confidence to go backward. Outsiders need to be of no value if it is not supported by in both Nigerian officials. “I’ve known respect Nigeria’s right to control economic progress.”

44 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs More Than 2,400 Candidates Apply For One Role As Competition For Jobs In Africa Stiffens Data from jobs platforms across Africa reveals that 14 job listings attracted more than 2,000 applications each

OAM Africa (Ringier One Africa Media), the leading Rdigital classifieds group in Sub-Saharan Africa, has released figures that highlight the current state of the jobs market in Africa, with one standard role attracting 2,417 applications. Analysing 69,511 jobs listings from January 2019 to August 2020 across 5 African countries (Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda), ROAM Africa’s data sheds more light on the challenges facing both job seekers and employers in the African jobs market. The standard job listing that attracted 2,417 applications was for a Receptionist/Admin Assistant in Kenya while another listing for call centre agents and team leaders attracted 2,283 applicants. Similar communications with 12%. rethink their hiring strategies and qualified candidates are applying for is observed also for other markets: Some candidates have also reported clearly define what they are looking roles and employers get an accurate In Ghana, 2,299 people applied for applying for more than 20 jobs a day for, based on data and insights. Job picture of jobseekers’ capabilities. an Administrative Assistant role and for multiple months and only getting seekers must also invest in personal A win-win for both job seekers and 2,265 people in Tanzania applied for a to the interview stage on a handful of development that will make it easier employers.” Sales Representative role. In Nigeria, occasions. This is why ROAM Africa’s for them to stand out in such a “Our data highlights both the the highest number of applications jobs platforms Jobberman (Ghana crowded and competitive market.” challenge and opportunity that come for a single role was 2,095 and it was and Nigeria) and BrighterMonday Weitz also added that, “We believe with the African jobs market. We must for a Sales Representative role. (Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania) are that Africa’s greatest asset is its people address the challenge of rampant According to ROAM Africa’s focused on matching technology. and their entrepreneurial spirit. With unemployment but also embrace data, Kenya contributed the highest The company’s technology helps the expected growth in the continent’s the opportunity to transform how amount of new job listings in 2019 employers to identify and score the population, we must begin to put recruitment is done. By doing this, we with 33%. Nigeria was in second place right candidates faster. Suitable structures in place that will make it will not only be addressing the current with 31% and Uganda was in third candidates are made visible to easier for African businesses to make problems but also future-proofing place with 17%. However, so far in prospective employers, and helped the most of this resource.” our businesses and organisations for 2020, Nigeria is leading the way with across the finish line by providing data According to Hilda Kragha, generations to come.” 40% of new job listings, with Kenya in driven career development tools and Managing Director of ROAM Africa’s ROAM Jobs is part of the ROAM second place with 28% and Uganda in training programmes. Job seekers Jobs platforms, “With the current Africa Group (“Ringier One Africa third place with 13%. using the platforms can expect to state of the jobs market, Africans Media”), the leading digital classifieds A closer look at ROAM Africa’s data improve their CV, gain interview cannot afford to continue with the group in Sub-Saharan Africa. Unified reveals that, apart from Nigeria, there tips and sign-up for online training antiquated recruitment processes by its mission to connect Africans to was a drop in overall job listings across courses designed to bridge the gap that are commonplace in many opportunities and be Africa’s most all job levels during the last months. between education and employment. organisations. We must prioritise user-centric marketplace company, However, there was an increase in Commenting on the data, Clemens a digital approach to recruitment, it operates across eight Sub-Saharan graduate trainee and ‘no experience’ Weitz, CEO of ROAM Africa said, which brings transparency to Africa’s countries. ROAM Jobs operates in roles in Nigeria, Tanzania and Ghana “The high ratio of applications per labour market while connecting Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Nigeria from May to July 2020, which job listing really highlights how people to work opportunities that and Ghana, with a multi-brand offers some hope for new entrants challenging the jobs market is for will improve their livelihood. We strategy, including Jobberman in into the jobs market. Interestingly, employers and job seekers. Both must also embrace objectivity in the West Africa and BrighterMonday in recruitment agencies contributed the employers and job seekers are recruitment process by incorporating East Africa. most roles, with 16% of overall jobs, struggling to connect with the right innovation that makes it easier to *Courtesy ROAM Africa closely followed by IT and Telecoms opportunities and more needs to be fairly and consistently sort for the best with 15% and Advertising media and done to address this. Employers must candidates. This will ensure that only PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 45 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

734 Coffee

734 Coffee is organic Ethiopian coffee sold in ground and whole bean form. The name “734” relates to the geographical coordinates of Gambela, a region in Ethiopia where more than 200,000 South Sudanese citizens have taken refuge.

Coffee from the Gambela region is lauded for its rich ßavor - medium bodied with hints of caramel, spice and berries with a smokey chocolate aftertaste. 734 contracts with co-op coffee growers in Gambela who employ South Sudanese refugees providing both a sense of purpose and a steady paycheck. At the core of 734 Coffee is the promise to tell the story of the world refugee crisis and give new hope for economic prosperity for Sudanese refugees. 734 Coffee contributes to the Humanity Helping Sudan Project, the organization leading the Þght to move the needle forward on self-sustainability for Sudanese refugees contributing 80% of all proÞts to refugee education and training projects in Gambela.

The Mission is Personal

Founder of 734 Coffee Manyang Reath Kher’s earliest memories are of war. At the young age of 3, Manyang became a refugee of the Sudanese civil war. He is one of The Lost Boys, a group of 20,000 Sudanese boys who were displaced and orphaned. Manyang’s father was one of the two and a half million people killed and he was separated from his mother and sister. For 13 years he lived in refugee camps along the Sudanese and Ethiopian border, where homelessness, hunger, fear, and abuse were part of his everyday life. But he was one of the lucky ones, at the age of 17, Manyang was brought to America where he learned English and eventually enrolled in college receiving his degree in May of 2016. He started Humanity Helping Sudan to improve the lives of Sudanese refugees. By launching 734 Coffee, Manyang is bringing his own American dream to life of creating a sustainable enterprise that both employs and empowers our refugee brothers and sisters.

Partner With Us

734 Coffee is seeking local and national distribution opportunities. By supporting 734 Coffee you are not only providing your customers with an exceptional sipping experience, you are taking a stand for those who have lost their homes, but not their hope.

For More Information

[email protected] 734coffee.com

46 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Increase Investment in Mini grid Electricity to Get Africa out of Darkness By Mohamed Adow* ovid-19 is pushing Africa into an education crisis. Of the C39 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, full learning is only taking place in six of them. A survey, by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the UN Children’s Agency UNICEF, found that of the 33 countries where learning is curtailed, in 14, of them it is completely closed. Millions of children across the region who have been forced to stay home since March now face the prospect of being part of Africa’s lost generation. Africa is the world’s youngest continent and we are in danger of failing our young people. While governments have explored offering schooling through alternatives such as distance learning, it has proven problematic. This is because virtual learning is delivered via gadgets such as computers and Mohamed Adow. smart phones which are powered of generation, transmission and energy sources of wind and solar, larger systems. by electricity. Virtual learning connecting users, particularly in far- helping our continent contribute These findings have once again would therefore have disadvantaged off, low population areas. to lowering harmful emissions reminded us of the opportunities millions of children especially in In countries where 100% access responsible for climate change. we continue to waste by failing to rural areas whose families have no has been achieved, such as Europe Their place in ensuring 100% exploit our freely available and electricity, either because they are and the Americas, this has been electricity coverage has been abundant clean energy resources. poor or live in remote areas, far away done through investing in mini-grid confirmed through a recent survey They are a wakeup call that we must from main-grid electricity. electricity which helps light up their by the Africa Minigrid Developers take advantage of innovation such as Indeed less than 48% of Africa’s more remote corners. Africa is no Association (AMDA) which found mini grids to overcome some of the population of around one billion different and therefore has much to that the mini-grid sector was growing daunting developmental challenges people have access to electricity benefit from this largely untapped quickly, with operational, installation we face. according to a 2018 World Bank report technology. and capital costs decreasing by as A network of renewable-powered . In absolute numbers this means that Whereas national grids transfer much as 60% over the past five years. mini-grids, stretching out across an estimated 600 million Africans are power from dams, power stations As a result, it costs a national utility the continent’s more remote areas living in darkness, literally, relying on or the likes of Kenya’s Naivasha such as Eskom in South Africa or ECG will ultimately strengthen Africa’s wood fire, kerosene and other forms geothermal fields to urban in Ghana, a minimum of US$1500 resilience to unseen shocks like of dirty energy for lighting. This is settlements, mini-grids cover much to connect a customer to power Covid-19. Had Africa invested much why Africans make up the lion’s share shorter distances and serve localised compared to only US$733 for a mini- sooner in mini grids our children of the estimated 790 million people populations in rural settlements. grid company such as Powerhive in would be learning remotely from around the world without electricity Usually running up to 10kmin Kenya. home today. according to the United Nations. radius, they tap power from the Using data from 28 companies in *Mohamed Adow is the Director of The world recognises access to sun or wind, store it in batteries 12 African countries, the survey found Power Shift Africa a Nairobi-based energy as a basic human right, and distribute it to users, allowing that the decentralised systems offered Energy and Climate Think Tank which is why the UN adopted this as them to enjoy electricity even when better service reliability with power and can be reached on madow@ its Sustainable Development Goal they are living tens of miles away generated 99% of the time, compared powershiftafrica.org. Twitter at @ number seven. One of the major from the national grid. Besides to main grids at 72%. This means that mohadow. obstacles to ensuring that everybody connecting remote communities, the smaller units actually suffer fewer enjoys this right is the high cost the decentralised systems use clean outages and breakdowns compared to PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 47 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa Zimbabwe's Capital City Pomona Dumpsite Fire In Harare Posing Serious Air Pollution And A Health Threat To Residents By Wallace Mawire he Environmental Management Agency (EMA) Thas advised the Harare City Council to take urgent action to stop the Pomona dumpsite fire which has been raging for long and is now reported to be contributing to serious air pollution and a health threat to residents of the city of Harare. According to EMA, although this is a challenge affecting many local authorities around the country in terms of management of their dumpsites, Pomona dumpsite has been singled out to be the worst affected. EMA Environmental Education and Publicity Manager, Mrs Amkela Sidange said that major fires at the dumpsite have been recorded in 2016, 2018 and the recent one on the 14th of August 2020. It is further added that to date the Zimbabwe Capital City Pomona dumpsite fire .Photo Twitter. battle is still on to extinguish the fire as dumpsite fires have proved to be pollution by the fire using micro-dust Following failure to comply with waste management remains an difficult to put out. samplers. the directive, the local authority was environmental challenge in most “To that end, Environmental The results are reported to have brought for a hearing before the urban local authorities,chief among Management Agency (EMA), has indicated that the 24 hour Mean for Environment Management Board the drivers of poor waste management issued an Environmental Protection Ground Level Concentrations (GLC) on various environmental issues is the continued use of unlined order to Harare city council to of PM10 was over the Standard including poor waste management dump sites despite the provisions of urgently allocate enough financial, Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ) in general and Pomona Dump site in Statutory Instrument 6 of 2007 which technical and human resources to prescribed limit and higher than the particular. mandated all local authorities to put out the fire at Pomona dumpsite World Health Organization (WHO) A court case is pending against have constructed and using standard and the budget allocation should guideline. the local authority on various sanitary landfills for waste disposal by be in relation to the action plan “This is seriously outside environmental issues again including 31 December 2012. with clear timelines, roles and permissible levels of pollution from poor waste management. The Agency says that it has since responsibilities,”Sidange said. the dumpsite fire indicating a high EMA says that the City of Harare the expiry of this period served orders She said that failure to treat the probability of serious environmental and all other local authorities are to defaulting local authorities with matter with the urgency it deserves and human health implications, encouraged to ring-fence waste failure to comply with the orders will leave the Agency with no option hence the burning of the dump should management revenue streams leading to court cases with some cases but to institute further prosecution be classified as an environmental to adequately resource waste still pending before the courts. processes. emergency and should be given the management to be in compliance to It is reported that few local “This follows observation of lack urgency it deserves,” Sidange said. standing environmental regulations. authorities have made efforts to of due commitment by the local According to EMA, this presents an Also local authorities are implored comply with the statutory provision, authority to give the matter the urgent need for intervention in order to discard the traditional linear among them Gwanda, Norton and urgency it deserves despite the to protect people’s constitutional model of waste management which is Kadoma. environmental effects of the ongoing right to an environment that is safe basically a cradle to grave system and “However, failure by most local fire, chief among them being pollution and is not harmful to their health. has challenges, but adopt the circular authorities to construct and use from the smoke emanating from the It has been added that before the model which impresses on resource standard landfills has resulted in a fire,” she said. outbreak of the current fire at Pomona efficiency, and has more business plethora of environmental challenges, It has also been reported that dumpsite, orders were issued to city opportunities in waste management, chief among them dumpsite fires,” the Agency conducted ambient air of Harare to decommission Pomona hence also a lasting solution and is Sidange said. monitoring over 3 days at strategic and to construct a properly lined sustainable. locations to ascertain the level of landfill. According to EMA, poor 48 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs The Basic Need Of The Cocoa Farmer Is Not Price Increment; But Access To Basic Amenities. By Ahedor Jessica* ocoa has continually played extent compared to larger ones. a central role in Ghana’s But the aspect of the strategic Ceconomy - as it currently plan to improve land productivity stands as the second largest producer in an attempt to reduce poverty of cocoa beans in the world. The key among cocoa growing homes was not to this success is anchored by the implemented. Most communities in specific strategies put in place and the Western -North Region of Ghana managed by the state-run COCOBOD. - the cocoa growing areas are without According to the Bank of Ghana, basic amenities. Sefwi Krobo- cocoa beans and its products export Manhyia, Sefwi – Akwapim, Accah- receipts for the first quarter of 2011 krom among other surrounding was US$859.4 million, accounting communities located in the Sefwi for about 61 percent of total export Akontombrah constituency are just earnings as compared to US$682.5 few examples of the communities that million (48.8 percent) in the previous produces high quantities of cocoa for year. Ghana but remain poor. Ghana achieved an increased Christiana Amponsah a 45- year- share of export prices to producers’ old cocoa farmer at sefwi -Akwapim price, which with growing global says the area produced more than (CWSA) ought to play a lead role in top 4 cases reported to the facility prices in the 2000’s gave producers 10,000 tons of cocoa every season providing over 500,000 small towns were pneumonia, respiratory tract higher prices. At the same time, two but has nothing to show for it. “we in rural Ghana with clean water. But infections, malaria and skin diseases. major government programmes produce more than 10, 000 tons many communities still exist without Medical superintendent at the facility initiated in early 2000’s – offered of cocoa yet no one cares about us. access to clean water. Adjoa Konadu Sarah Afful confirms the cases are farmers improved varieties, There are no schools around here a mother of 4 at Krobo- Manhyia said linked to the environment especially subsidized fertilizer and free pest for our children they walk about 16 access to potable drinking is a major the water they drink and the dusty and disease control for their crops. miles to school as such most have quit challenge for them as they have to trek nature of the roads. “our top four These programmes triggered a cocoa schooling. We don’t even have access miles in search of water. “we have to cases have always been pneumonia, production revolution by enabling to electricity and our roads are not walk miles to fetch this ground water respiratory tract diseases, skin farmers to more than double their motorable” for chores and drinking. From here diseases and malaria. Unfortunately, yields. This transformation was Ghana, under the APL project to the city where we can get treated they don’t have any other water apart because cocoa production remains funded by world bank is to ensure water is like 16 miles”. from the ground water, though we traditional and labour intensive, small towns have access to clean Checks at the Sefwi- Nsawurah have been educating them to boil and enabled smallholder farmers water. Per the project, Community health center, situated about 12 miles before it before drinking; she said. to intensify production to a greater Water and Sanitation Authority away from the towns reveals the Bright Deberah a private cocoa consultant, revealed most cocoa farmers are shifting focus away from production and venturing into other crops like rice and other produce because farmers toils but it doesn›t translate into better livelihood. He bemoaned why successive governments awards contract for cocoa roads yet areas that produce cocoa for the country remains in deplorable state. He asserts the basic need of the farmer is not price increments but access to basic amenities that makes life comfortable. *[email protected]

PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 49 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa

50 PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III Inside Africa Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs FECAFOOT vs LFPC Tussle: What Future for Cameroon Football? By Boris Esono Nwenfor he long term fight between the FECAFOOT and the Cameroon TProfessional Football League, LFPC, has been laid to rest by the Court of Arbitration for Sports, CAS, in Lausanne, Switzerland. The presidency of General Pierre Semengue has been reinstated while the decision of the FECAFOOT suspending the activities of the LFPC was described as «illegal». Observers of Cameroon football would have hoped that the decision from CAS brings to bed the “cold war” between FECAFOOT and the LFPC. The two parties have been trading subtle “jibes” against each other ever since the verdict was made. FECAFOOT in her communiqué published shortly after the verdict of CAS has promised to hand down the decisions to the competent committees of the Federation for onward implementation. The Minister of Sports and Physical Education Professor Narcisse Mouelle Kombi has called for the total engagement of the disgruntled parties without further involvement of legal proceedings, this for the interest of the country while respecting the FECAFOOT President Mbombo Njoya and General Pierre Semengue decisions of the Court of Arbitration for Sports. 2021. The erstwhile general’s mandate from the LFPC and instituting the Minproff will be hoping to retain The Minister has called for total at the helm of the professional league Transitional Technical Committee, their title which they won last year, collaboration between the LFPC/ was due to expire this year. TTC, sports observers say the country though the season was curtailed by FECAFOOT for the launch of the was turning a new leave in terms of the coronavirus. The team finished 2020/2021 football season of the Women›s league gets Guinness organization and professionalizing first last season on the first stop with professional football championship in SA as a sponsor football in the country. This was seen 46 points, though second-placed strict respect of CAF’s standards. One of the cries from football in the number of talks held between Awa football girls had the same The LFPC has the mandate to stakeholders in the country is for potential sponsors and FECAFOOT. number of points but considerably run the professional football for the league to have major sponsors This year, renowned brewery lower goal ratio. The women›s league this upcoming season has been for the competitions organized in company Guinness SA has been gets underway October 17 with charged to ensure the kick-off of the the country. For some years now, unveiled as the sponsor of the Caiman Douala and Canon Women championships in an atmosphere of the call has not been applied since Women’s First Division One Football of Yaounde facing each other at the calm and serenity putting in mind the MTN pulled out from sponsoring the Championship. At a time when Japoma stadium in Douala. upcoming 2021 CHAN to take-off in Professional football championships. women’s footballers are calling January. Before pulling out, the company for equal pay from the country’s PWD Maintained as Champions, In what many are regarded as cited mismanagement and poor federation, such a move from the News Stars Reinstated appeasement, the mandate of General organization of the leagues, a Federation only goes to improve the The decision from CAS also Pierre Semengue has been extended phenomenon too common in the salaries of the women taking part in stipulated that New Stars of Douala for one more year. His present Cameroonian milieu. football in the country. should be reinstated back to the Elite contract is expected to expire in June With FECAFOOT taking over Perennial champions Louves 1. The team spent the entirety of last PAV - oct. 2020 - MAG 1020 Vol III 51 PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa football season in a legal battle which meant they played no game during the 2019/2020 football season. «I urged you (FECAFOOT and LFPC) to collaborate fully in the peaceful resumption of the professional football championships, and the participation of deserving clubs in the international competition,» Minister Narcisse Mouelle Kombi said. “It is a question of avoiding any infringement of the rights of the implicated actors, as well as new developments in the case already addressed by CAS with that of New Stars of Douala.» The fans of PWD Bamenda took a breath of fresh air after it was made known that the club will be maintained as champions while also representing the country at the CAF Champions League. Should things had gone the way of General Pierre Semengue, the league would have been rendered null and void with no champion crowned. The club who has tested continental Football was set to resume in Cameroon on October 17 with the Elite One football Championship expedition before will hope to do better than its predecessors as they to begin on September 26, 2020, will now commence October 17, while football to go on smoothly in the were eliminated from the group but issues surrounding it such as that of the Elite 2 comes up October country. Indications, however, does stages of the competition. the COVID-19 pandemic made the 30. Football lovers in the country will not seem to show that the two parties Cameroon’s elite One resumption date to be pushed back be hoping that the two sides cannot are in any hurry to give in anytime Championship was initially scheduled to October. The Elite 1 championship do away with their differences for soon.

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