Aussie News ISSUE 2 JUNE 2011

A U S T R A L I A N H I G H C O M M I S S I O N A B U J A PAGE 2

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Aussie News High Commissioner’s 2 Message High Commissioner’s Message Australia Day Event & 3 Honours List It is a great pleasure to write the welcome message for our second edition of the Australian High Commission Abuja International Women’s 4 Newsletter. Day Lunch It has been a busy first six months of 2011 with the successful Presentation of 4 hosting of the Australia Day function at the Residence on Credentials: Niger 26 January, the staging of an Anzac Day dawn service in Abuja in April, a well attended International Women’s Day function Countries of Accredita- 5 at the Residence and the holding of an Australian Film Festival tion: Republic of Niger in honour of Reconciliation Week, featuring the Australian cinema musical comedy, Development Coopera- 6 Bran Nue Dae, at Silverbird Cinema in Abuja on 31 May. tion Programs There have been some very good outcomes in our efforts to engage with the West and Central African region more generally. I was honoured to present credentials in Mining Indaba 2011 7 Niamey in January as the first Australian Ambassador to be accredited to the Republic Australia visit of MFA 8 of Niger. I accompanied the Prime Minister’s Special Envoy to La Francophonie, Bill Permanent Secretary Fisher, on his successful visit to the Republics of Gabon, Cameroon and Congo in March. And Ambassador Uhomoibhi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Australian Mining in Ni- 8 Affairs, Nigeria, was hosted by the Australian Government on a rewarding bilateral geria visit to , Sydney and Melbourne with a delegation of senior MFA officials. More recently, the Republic of Congo Minister for Environment, H.E Mr Djombo, Harmony Day 9 conducted a very successful official visit to Australia in June 2011. This followed the Abuja ANZAC Day 9 visit of H.E Pierre Oba, Minister for Mines, Republic of Congo, in 2010. Welcome news was received following the 2011 Federal Budget in Canberra with the The ‘Aussies and Friends 10 announcement of an increase in development assistance to Africa of 45 percent. Dur- in Lagos’ ing 2011, 29 Nigerians will study on long and short development scholarships in Aus- Commonwealth War 11 tralia, which is an impressive increase on previous years. There was also an encourag- graves in Osogbo, Osun ing increase in applications for scholarships received from the Republics of Benin, , Niger, Congo, Gabon and Cameroon. High Commissioner’s 12 We are delighted at the continuing involvement of the Australian mining community in visit to The Gambia promoting Australian mining interests in West Africa. In support of this, all the Aus- Visit of PM’s Special En- 12 tralian Ambassadors/High Commissions situated in Africa were very pleased to attend voy to La Francophonie Mining Indaba in Cape Town in February, including hosting a function for Mining Minis- ters of the countries in our accreditation. CHOGM 13 We also would like to encourage our Aussie compatriots living and working in Nigeria Media Release on Budget 13 and the region register with the High Commission. Details of how to register are in- announcement cluded in this newsletter. We give a special thanks to the terrific contribution of the Australian wardens who support the High Commission’s efforts in far flung places. Australian Film Promo- 14 Some of their activities are featured in this newsletter. tion/Reconciliation With our best wishes Week Ian McConville Visa & Consular Info 15 ISSUE 2 JUNE 2011 PAGE 3

Australia Day: 26 January 2011

Australia Day is the national day of sioner talked of the growing rela- Australia. Traditionally celebrated tionship between Australia and annually on 26 January, the day Nigeria, sentiments echoed by the commemorates the arrival of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of First Fleet at Sydney Cove in 1788. Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dr This year, the High Commissioner Martin Uhomoibhi, during this ad- hosted a reception on 27 January at dress. The event was sponsored by his residence which was well at- Wayne Litton who provided a fine tended by Australians living in selection of Australian wines for Abuja, representatives of the Nige- the occasion and the setting of the The High Commissioner giving an rian government and people, mem- residence with numerous aboriginal interview for the Nigerian Television bers of the local diplomatic core, art paintings formed an appropriate Authority (NTA) at the occasion of the Australia Day function and other friends of Australia. Dur- backdrop. ing his speech, the High Commis-

AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS LIST

said the award was given "for out- standing service in exceptional cir- cumstances and for advancing Aus- tralia's strategic goals during the tragic Sundance plane crash in the Republic of Congo in June 2010, and its aftermath." The High Com- Our Australia Day mission, as part of the department's Achievement Medallions 2011... Emergency Response Team, re- ceived a Bronze Achievement Me- Every year on 26 January, as part of dallion "for outstanding service in Australia Day commemorations, exceptional circumstances". ...and one of the Certificates! the Secretary of the Australia De- Celebrate partment of Foreign Affairs and what’s Trade presents a small number of achievement awards to members of great! the department who demonstrated exemplary service to Australia's diplomatic interests during the year. On 26 January 2011, the Sec- retary awarded the High Commis- sioner, Ian McConville, one of just three individual Silver Achievement Medallions, the highest award pre- Australian High Commission Team celebrating sented for the year. The Secretary PAGE 4 AUSSIE NEWS

International Women’s Day

official within the Ministry, Mrs Joy Ajulu. Approximately 40 mainly women guests attended the lunch. However, a few hon- oured men also made it to the Ian McConville, International Women’s Day lunch, such as Mr Galadima spouse Libby (8 March) is a global day cele- representing the Fistula Foun- McCutchan and brating the economic, political dation of Nigeria, whose NGO Stuart Mooney and social achievements of works tirelessly to address the with some of women past, present and fu- problem of Fistula that impacts the Australian ture. The first International women who on women across the region. Women’s Day event was run in Libby McCutchan & attended The High Commission has pre- 1911, one century ago! Mrs Ajumogobia cutting the Women’s Day Cake! viously funded this NGO based On this occasion, our High in Kano and will continue to do Commission hosted a special so this year. The Minister of Women’s Af- International Women’s Day fairs, Hon. Mrs Josephine The event received media cov- luncheon on 3 March 2011. Anenih, was unavailable but erage in the Daily Trust, a The lunch was attended by was represented by a senior reputable Nigerian daily based contacts from UN agencies, in Abuja. local NGOs, business and the professions, selected diplomatic missions and the media. We were very pleased that the wife of Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, Madame Awuneba Ajumogobia, accepted our invitation and agreed to deliver a short speech as our Guest of honour.

Presentation of Credentials: Republic of Niger Ambassador McConville pre- mey, and underlined the poten- sented credentials to His Excel- tial for relations to grow with lency, General Salou Djibo, increased mining investment in President of the Supreme Niger. Also accompanying the Council for the Restoration of Ambassador on this visit was Democracy of the Republic of Mr Greg Walker, Chairman, Niger, on 25 January 2011. Australia Africa Mining Business This was the first time that an Council and Mr Stuart Mooney, Australian Ambassador had Second Secretary. presented credentials in Nia- ISSUE 2 JUNE 2011 PAGE 5

Our Countries of Accreditation: The Republic of Niger The Australian High Commission in Abuja is responsible for managing Australia’s diplomatic relations with a number of countries, namely Benin, Cameroon, Ga- bon, Niger, Nigeria, the Republic of Congo and The Gambia. In this edition, we would like to give our readers an overview on Australia’s engagement with the Republic of Niger.

Facts and Figures: Land size: 1,267,000 square km (roughly half the size of Western Australia) Population: 15.2m (official estimate, 2010) Capital city: Niamey Religion: predominantly muslim Ethnic groups: Hausa, Djerma-Songhai, Fulani, Tuareg, Kanouri amongst others Major languages: French (official), Arabic, Hausa, Djerma, Fulfulde, Tamasheq and others Climate: Arid tropical, generally hot and dry weather, about 80% of the country covered by desert Domestic economy: Driven by subsistence farming Main exports: Uranium; Niger’s uranium deposits are among the world’s largest

Recent Niger Politics Australian business interests: able communities in Niger with Approximately one year after a mili- There are several known Australian health and nutrition needs. tary coup that toppled then President companies with mining interests in In 2010-11, Australia’s overall contri- Mamadou Tandja, the Republic of Niger, mainly focusing on uranium bution to WFP through the Strategic Niger held a peaceful presidential (e.g. Paladin Energy, Artemis Re- Partnership Agreement is run-off on 12 March 2011 to return sources Limited, Oklo Uranium Lim- $45 million, of which almost two- the country to democratic rule. The ited, West African Resources Lim- thirds will be directed to programs in elections, which were widely judged ited) and gold (e.g. Middle Island Re- Africa. as free and transparent, saw opposi- sources Limited). Niger is now eligible for assistance tion leader Mahamadou Issoufou as Australian humanitarian and the winner with almost 58% of the through the Australia-Africa Partner- development engagement: vote. ships Facility, which provides Austra- In 2010-11, Australia provided lian Capacity Building in sectors of Diplomatic relations: $10.5 million in humanitarian assis- agreed priority. We were pleased Australia established diplomatic rela- tance to address food shortages in that an officer from the Niger MFA tions with Niger on 7 May 2009. In Niger resulting from severe drought. attended a trade policy course in addition to presenting credentials in This is in addition to $3.5 million that Canberra in May 2011, and we antici- February, Mr McConville, accompa- Australia provided in 2009-10. This pate Niger being awarded three nied by Second Secretary Stuart included $1.5 million granted through short term Australia Awards in the Mooney, travelled to Niamey to at- the World Food Program (WFP) and mining sector for 2012. The Niger tend the investiture of the democ- $2 million through Australian non- Minister for Mines attended the Aus- ratically elected President Ma- government organisations (Caritas tralian Ambassador’s lunch in Indaba hamadou Issoufou on 7 April 2011. and World Vision) to assist vulner- in Cape Town in February, 2011. PAGE 6 AUSSIE NEWS

The Australian High Commission’s Development Cooperation Programs

Each year, the Australian High ministered by the High Commission Commission, it is amongst the most Commission in Abuja provides di- in Abuja on behalf of AusAID. personally rewarding work that we rect funding to grassroots organisa- The 2010-11 financial year was a do. And the Australian High Com- tions to support development pro- mission in Abuja is always looking very productive year. The High jects in communities throughout Commission has provided for new and worthwhile projects to Nigeria and increasingly to our support and welcomes funding ap- AUD245,000 through DAP to a other countries of accreditation. total of 22 projects and plications from Benin, Cameroon, We have three small grants pro- AUD189,000 through AACGS to Gabon, The Gambia, Niger, Nigeria and the Republic of Congo. grams: the Human Rights Small three projects covering a diverse Grants Scheme (HRSGS) managed range of activities including in the DAP Contact: by the Australian Agency for Inter- water & sanitation, health, educa- Latonia Dabiri-Mpamugo national Development (AusAID) in tion and environmental conserva- Email: [email protected] consultation with DFAT and Aus- tion sectors and other poverty Tel: +234 9 461 2780 tralia’s network of Overseas Diplo- alleviation initiatives. Mail: Australian High Commission matic Posts; the Direct Aid Pro- Our project funding is a small part Oakland Centre gram (DAP) and the Australia Af- of the bilateral relationship be- 48 Aguiyi Ironsi Street rica Community Grant Scheme tween Australia and Nigeria, but Maitama, Abuja (AACGS), both of which are ad- for those of us working at the High Nigeria

Commissionings of previous projects The High Commissioner went to Buea region in western Cameroon to inaugurate the BONAVADA Water Rehabilitation Project on 22 February 2011. This project benefits several communities in the region with the provision of potable running water. Pictured is High Commissioner after been given the honorific title of “Mola Njie”, which in Bakweri means “road” or “pathfinder” by the Traditional Rulers. Also in attendance was the Mayor of Buea Municipality, Mbella Moki Charles.

The High Commissioner also attended the opening ceremony for the AusAID sponsored Human Rights Small Grants project at Widikum Division in western Cameroon on 24 February 2011. This very mov- ing and successful project was conducted by the NGO, IVFCam, which aimed at strengthening awareness in the communities of the region, including the traditional elders, of the rights of widows. Wid- ows traditionally have been deprived of basic property and other legal entitlements on the loss of their spouse. Pictured are the High Com- missioner and male villagers on the defensive in a tug-of-war compe- tition with the widows. The widows, numbering around 90, of course won the contest! ISSUE 2 JUNE 2011 PAGE 7

A selection of projects funded in 2010-11

DAP funded the CHRICED Election A community school in Ogbese, Ekiti Observers Training in Kano ahead of State, also benefited from this year’s the Nigerian general elections in April DAP funds for the renovation of six 2011. dilapidated classrooms & the con- struction of toilets.

Students’ per- formance at The Drill Ranch, located the ceremony in the Afi Mountain Wild- for the com- life Sanctuary, Cross missioning of the Mangu River State, received a Science Lab AACGS grant for the renovation and expan- We have continued with our support for The High Commission also pro- sion of the Nigerian the Nigerian Fistula Foundation, ena- vided funds for the Support for a Chimpanzee Centre. bling another 40 women and girls to poultry project the establishment receive much needed surgical attention. of a poultry farm in Imo State.

Mining Indaba 2011

This annual conference for the global mining industry held in Cape Town, South Africa, in February of each year is an excellent forum to showcase Australian mining expertise. It is also an important opportunity for all the Australian Ambassadors and High Commissioners based in Africa to join forces and promote Australian commercial, mining and investment interests. One of the highlights of the event was an Am- bassadors’ lunch hosted by all the Australian Ambassadors, which included 14 Ministers of Mining, including from Nigeria, Gabon, Repub- across Africa (left to right): David Maclennan (Perth Office), lic of Congo, Cameroon, and Niger. Karen Lanyon (Assistant Secretary Africa Branch, DFAT), Geoff Pictured at the Cape Town waterfront is Tooth (), Billy Williams (Accra), Ann Harrap (Pretoria), “Team Australia” including all the Australian Matthew Neuhaus (Harare), Sandra Vegting (Port Louis), Ian Ambassadors and High Commissioners located McConville (Abuja) and Lisa Filipetto (Addis Ababa). PAGE 8 AUSSIE NEWS Visit to Australia of Permanent Secretary, MFA, Ambassador Dr Martin Uhomoibhi

This successful visit in March 2011, tute for International Affairs of a sponsored by the Australian Govern- speech on Nigeria’s place in Africa ment, provided an important channel and the global community, by Ambas- of communication between Ambassa- sador Uhomoibhi. dor Uhomoibhi and his counterpart, High Commissioner Secretary of the Department of For- Ian McConville, his eign Affairs and Trade, Dennis son Kieren and Richardson, and progressed a num- Ambassador Martin ber of important bilateral issues. A Uhomoibhi at the busy schedule of meetings was con- Australia Day func- ducted in Melbourne, Canberra and tion in Abuja on Sydney. One of the highlights was the 27 January 2011 presentation at the Australian Insti-

Australian Mining in Nigeria

and the West African Limited has expanded its vision geo- region is TGP Australia graphically to other territories in Limited, the major West and Southern Africa, and to technical and financial include mining resource projects in investment partner of addition to oil and gas. A positive and the Nigerian local entity fast improving political environment Kevin Joseph (second from right) hosts Stuart company, KCM Mining now shows strong signs of an im- Mooney (sixth from left) and his partner Ilona Limited, since its com- pending boom in investment. And Mäkinen (fifth from right) at the mining site in mencement in 2006. In international interest is noticeably Kogi State February 2011, Stuart stronger". In support of the commer- Australian mining and associated Mooney, the Trade and Commercial cial activities of Australian resource companies are rapidly expanding Attaché for the High Commission, companies in Nigeria and the region, their business in Africa. More than visited the major leases of TGP/KCM the High Commission liaises closely 220 Australian resource companies Mining Limited mining sites in Kogi with Australian businesses to help have assets in Africa — 200 of these State, Nigeria. Stuart was hosted by them access markets, and works with are involved in mining. These compa- Kevin Joseph, Director responsible the Nigerian Government to ensure nies are responsible for 600 individ- for Nigeria and the Sub-Saharan Afri- Australian interests are registered at ual projects, spread over 42 coun- can Region for TGP and KCM Mining the appropriate official level. In this tries, and account for $20 billion of Limited. Mr. Joseph said he and his way, the High Commission, in con- actual investment. Over 47 Australian Australian partners were very opti- junction with Australian resource businesses started projects in Africa mistic about the commercial possibili- companies, is driving the develop- for the first time in 2010. One such ties for Australian mining companies ment of Nigeria's, and the region’s, Australian-affiliated resource com- in Nigeria and the region. According rich supply of solid and liquid mineral pany currently operating in Nigeria to Mr. Joseph, "TGP/KCM Mining resources. ISSUE 2 JUNE 2011 PAGE 9

Australian High Commission celebrates Harmony Day Harmony Day is celebrated on – is also an ideal place 21 March every year. Its purpose is to celebrate Harmony to celebrate diversity and equity in Day. The Australian the workplace and in our broader High Commission did community, and to remind our- so with afternoon tea selves that “everyone belongs”. and music which we shared with some members of the In Australia, this means acknowl- Birom, Edo, Hausa, Urhobo, wider High Commission family. edging the contribution of our in- Yoruba, French, German, Swiss- Once again, our staff adopted the digenous peoples and migrants to a German and Portuguese (and smat- idea of the day in great spirit, many cohesive and inclusive society of terings of Urdu, Bahasa and Manda- choosing to wear magnificent ver- some 22 million people – of which rin), as well as English. one in four were born overseas, sions of national dress for the occa- More information on Harmony Day and four million speak a language sion. can be found at: other than English. The High Commission’s 14 staff members come from six different www.harmony.gov.au Abuja – the capital of a country with more than 150 million people, states in Nigeria, and from Canada and Switzerland as well as Australia. Happy Harmony Day, hundreds of different language everyone! groups and many different religions We speak a total of ten languages –

Abuja ANZAC Day To commemorate AN- British High Commissioner to Ni- ZAC Day in 2011, High geria, HE Mr Andrew Lloyd, gave a Commissioner McConville moving reading of The Verse at the hosted a dawn service at Ari Burnu Memorial, Gallipoli, his residence in Abuja. The Sarah McConville (15 yrs old) read event was attended by an Australian bush poem, and we 90 people, including Aus- were given a stirring rendition of tralians, New Zealanders, the Last Post by a Nigerian Army representatives of Austra- bugler. Following the ceremony, lia's key military partners, those gathered shared a traditional Dawn Memorial Service members of the local dip- 'gunfire' breakfast. lomatic core, Nigerian offi- Australia has provided more than ANZAC Day is one of Australia's cials, and representatives from the 65,000 personnel to over 50 UN most important national com- Nigerian Armed Forces. During his and other multilateral peace and memorations. It marks the first speech, High Commissioner security operations since 1947. major military action fought by McConville made special mention Today, more than 3500 Australians Australian and forces of those children present at the continue to serve in peace opera- during the First World War, the commemoration and encouraged tions around the world. Over 'Gallipoli Campaign', and is a day on them to remember the sacrifices 100,000 Australians have lost their which the sacrifices of war are re- which young men and women have lives in wars in the last century. membered. made in the pursuit of peace. The PAGE 10 AUSSIE NEWS

The ‘Aussies and Friends in Lagos’

The Aussies and Friends in Lagos are which we involve ourselves. If you scattered throughout a wide array of would like to join the Aussies, Kiwis Tirscha McPherson at businesses and activities in this mega and Birds of Paradise who are al- [email protected] city. We warmly welcome everyone ready on our group mailing list, or Barry Phipps at to join in on any of the activities in please send an email to: [email protected]

Small World Made a World of Difference ity. A local school serving the com- In February, the fund raising event munity was in desperate need of wa- “Small World” was held on Victoria ter and we were able to construct Island, Lagos. A small but dedicated and install a water bore and storage band of “Oceania” locals worked tank for the school and surrounding hard and donated their time, cooking community to use. Our second re- skills and dry ingredients to make the cipient of funds is the Victoria Island Oceania stand a great success. The Junior Secondary School on Victoria evening was great fun and proved to Island, where we were able to supply be a tremendous charity fund raiser. 75 student desks and chairs for use in Working hard: The ‘Aussies and Our share of the profits, one million the classrooms, better than sitting on Friends in Lagos’ Team at Small Naira (around 6700 Australia dol- the floor! world, with Second Secretary Stuart lars), has and will be distributed to Both projects will, hopefully, go a Mooney and his partner Ilona Mäkinen the charities of our choice. long way in encouraging students to The Methodist School on the keep the “green” light switched on in mainland at Ibeshe is one such char- their education.

The ANZACs…Lest We Forget! play in the pool from the children. A ANZAC Day in Lagos was a lovely great night was had by all, including evening during which we all remem- our guests Stuart Mooney, from the bered the sacrifices of Aussies and Australian High Commission in Kiwis, and others in our region who Abuja, and his partner Ilona Mäkinen. have helped in the spreading of peace Stuart attended on behalf of the High across the globe. Many people from Commissioner McConville. Accord- across our small community here in ing to Stuart, “we shared a really Lagos attended. Dave McPherson special night. It was a genuine, heart- MC'd the occasion and we had Fa- felt and honest ceremony, and every- ther Jerry, Albie, and Janis help with one was touched by the singing by the ceremony. The event finished off Albie and Father Jerry, and MC’ing by with a BBQ, a catch up and lots of Dave.” David McPherson MC’ing

Photos: Courtesy of Tirscha McPherson ISSUE 2 JUNE 2011 PAGE 11

Australian Direct Aid Program funding provided by the Australian of underprivileged youth, through Funding: making a difference at High Commission in Abuja, we have apprenticeship programs. the grass roots level in Lagos been able to provide student desks A small local school at Owode on the for the primary school and colorful mainland is another school that has tables and chairs for the nursery de- benefitted from contact with Austra- partment. Like the project work lia. This school supports both the listed above, the furniture for the local community as well as under- Owode School project was manufac- privileged youth who reside in a resi- tured by local manufacturers, who dential rehabilitation facility for street support the educational development boys. Through Direct Aid Program

Commonwealth War Graves: Osogbo in Osun State, Nigeria

last resting place for three Aussies pound" and that a trip there from who were killed in a plane crash on Lagos would "probably be too much 19 August 1942. On the fateful day, for a single day trip for an ANZAC RAF Takoradi Blenheim V BA597 ceremony or memorial service. How- with Sgt. F.B. Borrett RAAF, F/S. ever, if the visit to the Military Ceme- J.A. Bowditch RAAF and tery was added to a weekend in the Sgt. R.F. Henderson RAAF took off from Lagos on a delivery flight heading to- wards the Middle East, but failed to There are a number of Australian respond when the servicemen buried in Commonwealth convoy leader or- Graves throughout Nigeria. One dered a return to grave is at Kano, where last year for base because of an Remembrance Day the High Com- impending storm. Graves of three Royal Australian Air Force members missioner laid a wreath in memory of The plane spun into two Australian servicemen buried ground 9 km north of Osogbo, after Osogbo area, visiting the town and there. Another site is at Osogbo, the entering the storm with no survivors. its important sites would be quite an capital of Osun State. An Australian All of the crew were buried in enjoyable and manageable journey." If living in Lagos, Barry Phipps, made a Osogbo War Cemetery, along with you have any information on other journey to the Osogbo Military 35 West Africans, seven British, one Commonwealth War Graves in Nige- Cemetery earlier in the year. He Canadian and two Polish service- ria, the High Commission would be wrote of his journey: "A day off men." Barry noted that the cemetery interested to hear from you. sparked a 'road trip' in search of the was in a "small and well-kept com- PAGE 12 AUSSIE NEWS

High Commissioner’s visit to The Gambia High Commissioner’s visit to The Gambia

Abroad, H.E Mamadou Tangara 212 service men and women They also met with Mr Dawda from World War II are buried, Fadera, Permanent Secretary, including Flight Sergeant Bruce and Ms Safie Lowereesay, Dep- Evans, Royal Australian Air uty Permanent Secretary at the Force, 22/09/1943. Office of the President Person- nel Management Office (both pictured), who are our key points of contact for the Aus- tralia Awards Program. The High Commissioner with Mr Dawda Gambia secured eight long Fadera and Ms Safie Lowereesay in term award Masters Scholar- Mr Fadera’s office in Banjul ships for study in Australia in In March 2011, High Commis- 2010, and a further seven long sioner and Second Secretary term awards in 2011 under this program. Mooney paid a courtesy call on Second Secretary Stuart Mooney and the the Gambian Minister for For- Also, the High Commission High Commissioner at the Fajara War eign Affairs, International Co- team visited the Fajara War Cemetery operation and Gambians Cemetery in Banjul where

Visit of the Prime Minister’s Special Envoy to La Francophonie, His Excellency Mr Bill Fisher

We were honoured to organ- three countries was a key focus ise the visit to Gabon, the Re- of bilateral discussions. public of Congo and Cameroon H.E Mr Fisher, along with the of the PM’s Special Envoy to La High Commissioner and Sec- Francophonie and to accom- ond Secretary Edye, met with pany His Excellency Mr Bill the President of the Republic of Fisher on his trips. The pur- Gabon, H.E Mr Ali Bongo On- pose of the visit was to pro- dimba, as well as the Minister mote Australian interests in La for External Relations in Cam- Francophonie as well as to un- eroon, H.E Mr Henri Ayissi, H.E Mr William Fisher and Gabonese Presi- derline Australia’s close en- and the Minister for Foreign dent H.E Mr Ali Bongo Ondimba in Libreville gagement with Africa on United Affairs and Cooperation for the attracted widespread print and Nations Security Council is- Republic of Congo, H.E electronic media interest. sues. Australia’s growing inter- Mr Basile Ikouébé. The visit ests in the mining sector of all ISSUE 2 JUNE 2011 PAGE 13

Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) In October this year, the nity for Commonwealth lead- Business Forum Queen of the Commonwealth, ers to discuss global and Com- at the Resi- over 50 heads of Government, monwealth issues. The High dence in Abuja 4000 members of international Commission is working closely on 8 June at a well attended delegations, international busi- with Australia's Common- reception. We will be working ness and the media will de- wealth partners in the region - closely with the Common- CHOGM is the biggest scend on Perth, Australia, for Nigeria, The Gambia and Cam- wealth Business Council, the gathering of the Commonwealth Heads of eroon - to ensure CHOGM is a Nigerian Investment Promotion world leaders Government Meeting forum in which the leaders of Commission and Image Affairs Australia has (CHOGM). The Common- all countries can express their Nigeria to ensure Nigeria is ever witnessed! wealth is one of the most im- views and collaborate in sup- well represented at CHOGM portant global forums, of which porting democracy, good gov- and the CBF. President Good- Australia was a founding mem- ernance and the rule of law. luck Jonathan has been invited ber. CHOGM is held every two The High Commissioner to Chair a Roundtable on Nige- years to provide an opportu- launched the Commonwealth ria-Australia investment.

Media Release on Budget Announcement

Abuja 12 May - The Australian Africa region and to our Africa regional programs within High Commissioner in Abuja, Engagement Strategy." ECOWAS through the AAPF. Ian McConville, was delighted During 2011, 29 Nigerians will Australia will also maintain to announce the increase in study on long and short devel- strong support for humanitarian Australia's development assis- opment scholarships in Austra- needs on the continent includ- tance to West Africa arising lia. These Awards are aligned ing assistance to the crises in from the budget of 10 May. Australia to the priorities of the Nigerian Ivory Coast, and the Australia will increase its devel- announces it Government and its institutions Democratic Republic of Congo. opment assistance to Africa by will increase to strengthen their human re- a further AUD $90 million in The Australian Government development source capacity. A major bene- 2011-2012 bringing its total to announcement reaffirms Austra- assistance to fit to West African countries, lia's ongoing commitment to AUD$291.3 million. including Nigeria, from today’s Africa by 45% scale up its development assis- "I am particularly pleased that announcement will be an ex- tance program to 0.5 percent of the Australian Awards program pansion of the Australia Gross National Income by as well as other assistance Awards Program which will 2015-16 and increase its assis- through the Australia Africa offer more than 750 Australia tance to Africa. The Australian Partnership Facility (AAPF) will Awards (scholarships) to at Government remains commit- continue to expand and build least 40 African countries in ted to ensuring that every dollar on existing activities in Nige- 2012. The Australian Govern- spent on aid has the maximum ria," His Excellency Mr McCon- ment is also very pleased to impact on poverty and eco- ville said in Abuja today. "This support other sectors in Nige- nomic development. is a clear indication of Austra- ria in 2011, including Public lia's commitment to the West Sector Reform, and support for PAGE 14 AUSSIE NEWS Public Diplomacy Event: Australian film promotion – ‘Bran Nue Dae’

The event coincided with “Reconciliation Week” in Australia which commemorated the anniver- sary of the 1967 Referendum and Mabo Day which brings together indigenous and non-Indigenous Aus- tralians to understand our shared history. One of the most recent land- marks in recent efforts to promote Two of the film workshop participants unity and respect between Aboriginal on location at Apo Mechanics village The Australian High Commission was and Torres Strait Islanders and non- Picture: Courtesy of Jolyon Hoff delighted to present the first Indigenous Australians was the for- “Australian Film Festival” on 31 May mal apology given by the then Prime 2011 at Silverbird Cinema in Abuja. Minister, , on 13 February industry, government authorities, diplomatic representatives and the Set on Australia’s west coast in the 2008, apologising to Indigenous peo- Australian community in Abuja. A summer of 1969, “Bran Nue Dae”, is ple, particularly the Stolen Genera- special thanks to the Sheraton Hotel a charming, romantic musical com- tion, and their families and commu- for their assistance in the catering for edy, starring the Australian Academy nity, for laws and policies which had the event. Award winner Geoffrey Rush, who inflicted profound grief, suffering and bursts onto the screen with unbri- loss on these, our fellow Australians. One of the highlights of the event dled energy as Father Benedictus. There are some 455,031 Australians was the film production workshop Based on one of Australia’s most who identify themselves as of Abo- sponsored by the High Commission, beloved and popular musicals, “Bran riginal or Torres Strait Islander de- led by the experienced Australian Nue Dae” is a foot stomping tour-de- scent and currently around 145 lan- film producer, Jolyon Hoff, involving a force centring on the romantic ad- guages spoken. terrific group of 12 young enthusias- ventures of a young Aboriginal cou- It was heartening to see the evening tic Nigerian film makers. The result ple, Willie and Rosie, set against a so well attended with about of this workshop was an 8 minute spectacular and beautiful Australian 150 people from the Nigerian film short film of the very local Apo Me- backdrop. chanics village which was screened prior to “Bran Nue Dae”. Well done to Emeka Uwakwe, Nam Abban, Bem Pever, Jerusalem Dzuamo, Roberta Miller, Jenevieve Aken, Flora Fatima Daniel, Tom Saater, Tobi Williams, Michael Alli- son, Emamodeviefe Edosio and Jerry Adesewo, presented with a certifi- cate by the Director of Culture from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism The High Commissioner (front), Jolyon Hoff (back left) on the night. and Stuart Mooney (back right) with the workshop participants at the cocktail function Picture: Courtesy of Silverbird Cinemas ISSUE 2 JUNE 2011 PAGE 15

Visa Information in Nigeria

Australia, as a multicultural and agreement to assist with the facili- VFS is open between 0800 and open country, welcomes people tation of visa applications to Aus- 1500 Monday to Friday. You can from all places to either visit or tralia's High Commission in find more information here: make Australia their home for Pretoria, South Africa, where good. In either case, if you aren't they are considered. Many other website: www.vfsglobal.com/australia/nigeria/ an Australian citizen, you must countries in Nigeria use VFS to via email: [email protected] remember to obtain a visa before streamline the visa issuing proc- by phone: 09 8701519 you travel. To ensure people in ess. Nigeria* are able to submit visa VFS is located in Abuja at: applications more efficiently, from 1 June 2010 the High Commission Plot Number 42 * Citizens of Benin and The announced new arrangements Door No 38 Gambia also apply for visas via for the handling of visa appli- Lobito Crescent Australia’s High Commission in cations in Nigeria. It is impor- Wuse 2 Pretoria, South Africa (more info: tant to note that the High Com- www.southafrica.embassy.gov.au) mission does not accept ordinary and in Ikeja, Lagos at: Citizens of Cameroon, Gabon, visa applications for travel to Aus- Niger and the Republic of tralia. Instead, those wishing to No 16, Billings Way Congo apply for visas via Austra- travel to Australia should lodge Ground and 1st Floor lia’s High Commission in Nairobi, applications for visas directly with Oregun Industrial Area (more info: VFS Global, with which the High www.kenya.embassy.gov.au) Commission has entered into an

Consular Information

An important function of the High Commission is to protect the Registering is EASY via the legitimate interests of Australians 'smartraveller' website, at ries are updated regularly, so we overseas and to assist in ensuring http://smartraveller.gov.au suggest that those interested in their welfare. As such we are receiving updates subscribe, again committed to providing effective, Through the smartraveller web- via the smartraveller website, to prompt and courteous consular site Australians can also find infor- receive advice as to when these services, delivered in an equitable mation about travelling overseas are amended. If consular assis- way, to all Australians requiring and on the consular services the tance is required, we recommend them. In order for us to help Aus- High Commission can provide. in the first instance calling the tralians, is it important that they Importantly, there is also a link to dedicated 24-hour Consular register with us so that we can the travel advisories for Nigeria Emergency Centre hotline, contact them in an emergency. and the other countries for which which can be reached at we are responsible. These adviso- +61 2 6261 3305. High Commissioner Ian McConville, Spouse Libby McCutchan and Second Secretary Alison Edye with former leader of the Australian Democratic Party, Senator Natasha Stott Despoja (middle) and Bodunrim Adebo from the National Democratic Institute (NDI) during Ms Despoja’s visit to Nigeria as one of the co-leaders of the NDI International Election Observer Mission

Registration Info for Australians abroad

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Good to know...

The difference between an Embassy and a High Commission Australian High Commission 5th Floor, Oakland Centre A permanent diplomatic mission is a group of people from one state or inter- 48 Aguiyi Ironsi Street governmental organisation (such as the UN) present in another state (usually Maitama, Abuja the capital) to represent the sending state/organisation in the receiving state. Nigeria A permanent diplomatic mission is commonly known as an Embassy and the person in charge of the mission is the Ambassador. Diplomatic missions Office Phone: (+234) (0)9 461 2780 between Commonwealth Countries, however, are known as High Office Mobile: (+234) (0)803 307 3519 Commissions and their heads as High Commissioners. This is because E-mail: [email protected] ambassadors are exchanged between foreign countries, but Commonwealth www.nigeria.embassy.gov.au member countries nominally maintain that they are not foreign to one another. So, while Mr Ian McConville is a High Commissioner to the three Commonwealth countries Nigeria, Cameroon and The Gambia, he is an Ambassador to the other accredited countries, namely Benin, Gabon, Niger and the Republic of Congo.