Vol 14 Mar 2012

CEO’s Corner:

Human Rights for All – Dream or Reality?

Dr Matlotleng Matlou—Chief Executive Officer of the Africa THIS ISSUE Institute of

s we commemorated the obser- representing the people and began a cam- vance of International Women’s paign for developing a new constitution. The Role of Media A Day and human rights globally in The National Assembly on 26 August 1789, in Human Rights page 6 March there is a need to pay homage to adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the struggles for human dignity and equal- Man and of the Citizen of the National Dr Thokozani Simelane ity from time immemorial. The develop- Assembly, drafted by the Third Estate and Research fieldwork page 7 ment of societies has been accompanied assisted by Lafayette, who was also in- by significant progress and the quality of volved in drafting the American Declara- living. However, this has also been accom- tion of Independence of 1776. In Septem- Men in the Making panied by other people being enslaved, ber 1791, a constitutional monarchy was at AISA page 8 colonised, exploited and abused by others. declared, followed by a republic a year Some humans have even considered oth- later. In January 1793, the monarchy was Schools Outreach ers not to be full or proper human beings. abolished when King Louis XVI was exe- Programme page 9 People have been discriminated against on cuted. the basis of their colour, sex, religion, The Declaration containing 17 articles From the Archives page 10 class, gender and for various other rea- asserts that “all men are born free and sons. Consequently, from the beginning of remain free and equal in rights”, estab- Human Rights in Africa page 12 history, social scientists and activists have lished the rights of individuals in relation grappled with the nature of political, social to the state and sought to remove dis- and economic relations that ensue from crimination among people on the basis of human interactions and the rights, as race, class, religion and sex. The declara- against privileges, that should be accorded tion encapsulated the ideals that France New Book Notification to people. A major milestone in the strug- sought to achieve into the future. Interest- gle for human rights in the modern era ingly this declaration did not extend the started in 1789 in France when the King rights to women, foreigners and slaves. In “Public Opinion and Interest Group Louis XVI tried to deal with the challenges 1791, Olympe de Gouges a woman activist Politics: South Africa’s Missing of huge debts, famine, food scarcity and involved in the French Revolution then Links?” high prices. He called an assembly of the produced the Declaration of the Rights of Estates (comprising first – clergy; second – Woman and of the Female Citizen Page 4 noble and third – masses). The Third Es- tate turned this into a National Assembly, Continues on page 3 tional Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, in mem- Editorial ory of the massacre. Cliché as it may sound, let us all share the knowledge about this important chapter of our history By Vincent Mnisi amongst ourselves and honour the gallant efforts of our fallen compatriots. he simplest definition of democracy is ‘government by As part of our ongoing Ambassadorial Forum, AISA hosted Mr. the people’. In earnest this implies participation of eve- Sarwat Hussain, Senior Communications Officer and Hub T ryone in all main political decisions of a country. I am Leader, Africa Region Strategic Communications (AFRSC) at the stating the obvious at the back of the recent Congress of South World Bank who gave a brilliant presentation on the new 10 African Trade Unions (COSATU) organised march against the year World Bank Strategy for Africa. The interactive presenta- Gauteng e-tolling system that the government is going to im- tion also gave the delegates the opportunity to engage with plement at the end of April. COSATU and the majority of mo- Mr. Hussain and share their different perspectives and views torists in Gauteng feel that the government deliberately forgot about the World Bank. to consult them about the burden that they are going to incur In this issue, we put a spotlight on Human Rights in Africa following the construction of the roads. This has ultimately on page 12; we also look at the media’s role in protecting Hu- caused the dissatisfaction and many people are saying they man Rights on page 06. are not going to pay. We also highlight the AISA’s LDS Division School outreach Here is background of how the whole e-tolling saga un- programme in the North West province on page 09, and we folded from my perspective. South Africa hosted the most take the time to talk to Dr Thokozani Simelane about his re- successful World Cup in history (don’t quote me on that). It is search visit to Mozambique on page 07, and we also introduce a known fact the South African government invested a lot of a new publication Page 04. money amounting to billions towards infrastructure develop- ment and then included new stadiums, new roads and bridges to meet the requirements of hosting the 2010 World Cup soc- Happy reading to everyone! cer spectacle. I am sure, like myself, you were all wondering how are we going to pay back the money that was borrowed and I believe that the e-tolling is one of the first of many infra- ADD US ON: structures we are paying back, with the rest to follow. I then go back to my definition of democracy. If this gov- ernment is by the people then the people need to be properly informed and engaged from the start. Transparency and hon- esty should be the main priority. No one will refuse to pay for Facebook.com/africainstitutesa something they have agreed to and know the benefit of it. Having had the opportunity to visit a few African countries, I have to say South Africa has some of the best highways you can find anywhere in the world and they are properly main- tained, but as to who should fit the bill for their upkeep, I honestly don’t know. My understanding was that the fuel levy Twitter: @aisa_research had that covered. The month of March is probably one of the most significant months in the history of South Africa. It is exactly 52 years since the Africa National Congress (ANC) and the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) were banned in South Africa by the old govern- ment regime. It is also the month that reminds us of the sad linkedin.com/company/africa-institute-of-south-africa and painful scenes of the Sharpeville Massacre where 69 peo- ple were killed, including 8 women and 10 children, and 180 injured, including 31 women and 19 children. Many were shot in the back as they turned to flee. I am certain that many of you will remember that the Rivonia Trial took place just three africainstitutesa.tumblr.com years after that ruling by the then government. As we commemorate Human Rights day this year, we should all consciously analyse and look back at what role the occurrences of this month in 1960 has played in shaping the South African political landscape. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Youtube.com/aisavideos Organisation (UNESCO) marks March 21 as the yearly Interna-

AISA Focus 2 Continues from page 1 equality and promote women’s rights. In and spirit of the Universal Declaration of its 66 years of existence, the CSW has Human Rights (UDHR) adopted by the which basically parodies and replicates been instrumental in leading the UN, UN General Assembly on 10 December the one of Man, giving women the same governments, intergovernmental organi- 1948, was gender sensitive and sought rights and showing how the French sations and non-governmental organisa- to achieve gender equality. The UDHR Revolution failed in terms of gender tions in the fight for improving women’s arose from the genocide and vast human equality. France abolished slavery in rights and their quality of life. rights abuses during World War II and 1794 and this was reinstated by Napo- In 1975, declared the International emphasises that “the inherent dignity leon Bonaparte in 1802. The Declaration Women’s Year, the United Nations gave and the equal and inalienable rights of on the Rights of Man served as a stan- the International Women’s Day official all members of the human family” as dard for people struggling for self deter- recognition and held the first of so far being the “foundation freedom, justice mination, democracy and human rights four conferences on women starting in and peace in the world”1, is founded on across the world, including Haitians who Mexico; and has annually declared a the principles of the Declaration of the won independence from France in 1804. theme for the day. In 1977, the UN Gen- Rights of Man. The UDHR with 30 articles The French Revolution and the First Re- eral Assembly declared it the UN Day for covering political, social and economic public that it ushered in brought about Women’s Right and International Peace. rights was signed by forty-nine countries major changes to France. However, it Fifteen countries globally commemorate (including Egypt, Ethiopia and Liberia) also descended into an orgy of violence, voted in favour; whilst eight countries terror, social upheaval and numerous ‘The objectives of the including South Africa abstained. Not wars abroad, leading to the fall of the surprisingly, the next 46 years of Apart- Republic by 1804. Charter are to amongst heid in South Africa turned out to be a In 1910, Clara Zetkin from the Social period of major human rights abuse, Democratic Party, Germany (who led the others, promote univer- which the UN defined as a crime against development of the women’s movement sal tenets of democracy humanity. It is exemplary that the Bill of in Germany and was interested in Rights of the South African constitution women’s politics especially gender and respect for human of 1996 is virtually a replica of the UNDR. equality and universal suffrage) sug- Sixty-three years later, reality is very gested the establishment of the Interna- rights;’ different, although there has been sig- tional Women’s Day to press for nificant progress building on the UDHR women’s demands, celebrate women’s which has engendered the development achievements and also highlight gender the day as a national holiday out of 192 of a myriad of international treaties and inequality, during the Second Interna- UN members; this small number reflects institutions, regional instruments and tional Conference of Working Women in the significant journey still to be trav- national constitutions, there are still Copenhagen, attended by delegates elled for gender equality. In July 2010, widespread human rights abuses across from over 17 countries . The first Inter- the UN recognising that gender inequal- the globe. national Women’s Day was celebrated in ity still remains deeply and stubbornly Interestingly, in 1999, Trinidad and 1911 on 19 March, (which was the day in entrenched in every society; women are Tobago, initiated the International Men’s 1848 that the Prussian king recognised under-represented across the socio- Day on 19 November, to improve gender the power of armed people when they economic and political landscapes; and relations, encourage gender equality, staged a revolution. He made many re- that its own efforts to promote women’s development of responsible males and form promises including providing rights were under-funded and effected highlighting of positive male role mod- women with the vote, that he did not through disparate and sometimes con- els. The UN has provided support for the keep). From 1913, the day has been flicting programmes sought to create a day, but it is not an official UN obser- celebrated on 8 March. At the signing of unified structure named UN Women that vance, like International Women’s Day. the United Nations (UN) Charter in 1945 would be a powerful champion for fe- This may not be surprising since more of in San Francisco, there were 4 females males at the global, regional and local the work needed is in the area of out of the 160 signatories and they suc- levels. In 2012 the UN theme for Interna- women’s rights. cessfully lobbied for the inclusion of gen- tional Women’s Day “Empower Rural The African Union (AU) inherited der equality in the preamble that “faith Women – End Poverty and Hunger” is various protocols, other instruments and in fundamental human rights, in the dig- tied to the World Bank’s 2012 World institutions from the Organisation of nity of the human person, in the equality Development Report on Gender Equality African Unity (OAU) dealing with human of men and women and of nations large and Development that argues that global rights and has over the past decade cre- and small.” Women also campaigned for society stymies balanced growth and ated many more. Meanwhile the re- the establishment of the Commission for development by holding back half of the gional economic communities have built the Status of Women (CSW) which was world’s population. upon these launched in 1946 to promote gender The CSW ensured that the language Continues on page 5 AISA Focus 3 New Book Notification Elections Update Public Opinion and Interest March 2012

Group Politics: South Africa’s By Sam Mokgohloa and Elize van As

Missing Links? n 18 March 2012, an early Presidential Election was held in Guinea Bissau, following the death O of President Malam Bacai Sanhá on 9 January 2012.

Sanhá was a diabetic, who regularly paid visits to hospi- tals in Dakar and Paris.

According to the constitution, a new election should be held within 90 days. The presidential term is five years, but since Guinea Bissau’s independence no president has completed his term in office: three presidents have been ousted, one was assassinated and another died in office.

Nine candidates ran in the election of which the front runners are Carlos Gomes Júnior and Kumba Ialá. Gomes Júnior resigned as Prime Minister to become a presiden- tial candidate. Kumba Ialá, a former president from 17 February 2000 was deposed in a military coup on 14 Sep- tember 2003.

Their constitution also states that the election commis- sion should release the result within ten days after voting has taken place.

In more developed democracies, such as the US and Germany, On 26 February 2012 a presidential election took place in interest groups both shape and promote public opinion. Re- Senegal, which was marred by controversy over the con- grettably, this is not always true in South Africa’s nascent sys- stitutional validity of a third term for incumbent presi- tem. This anthology tries to understand why interest groups dent Abdoulaye Wade. do not affect or advance public opinion in South Africa and

then suggests how interest groups can redress the situation. The presidential term is seven years (controversially re-

stored from five years by Wade) and limited to two terms Part 1 Public Opinion and Interest Group Politics Around the under the 2001 constitution, World: Instructive insight?

Wade indicated that he would stand for a third term, ar- Part 2 Public Opinion and Interest Group Politics in South guing that his 2000 election falls under the previous con- Africa: Comparing Perspectives stitution which did not provide for term limits. His argu-

ment was upheld by the Constitutional Court of Senegal, Part 3 Championing Public Opinion: A Future for Interest who ruled that he could run for a third term. Groups?

Fourteen candidates ran in the election. Wade won 34,8% To Order Contact of the votes and Macky Sall 26,5%, forcing a run-off be- Africa Institute of South Africa tween Wade and Sall that was won by the latter. P.0. Box 630 Pretoria0001 In the 2007 presidential election, Sall supported Abdou- Tel: +12 304 9700 laye Wade. Sall called on all the other losing candidates to Fax: +12 323 8153 support him in the second round, promising a return to a Email: [email protected] five-year term for the president and to ensure that no leader could hold more than two terms. AISA Focus 4 Continues from page 3 pendence of the judiciary and fostering celebrated in those same places? continental integration. The questions Some reasons for the protests are: with regionally specific processes. Afri- are whether this is another AU docu- poor service delivery, inefficient state can countries are in addition, parties to ment that will gather dust as states vio- agencies, landlessness; grinding poverty, numerous other international human late its principles and the AU is unable unemployment, corruption3, crime, rights instruments. The latest addition, to sanction them; will the AU Court on police brutality, overcrowded schools, the AU Charter on Democracy, Elections Human and Peoples Right and those of educational costs, high service charges, and Governance came into effect on 15 RECs be able to hold states accountable; poor quality of life, high cost of living, February 2012, after Cameroon became so also the citizens of member states; racial divisions, gender inequalities etc. the 15th state to ratify it on 16 January what happens to states that violate the Other reasons have been against toll 2012, having been adopted by the AU charter? If history is an indicator, espe- charges, government policies like the on 30 January 2007. It is of concern that cially the numerous African elections in review of constitutional court judge- the AU list of countries that have 2011 which were not free and fair (even ments and the Secrecy of Information signed, ratified and acceded to the if the charter was not in effect), the fu- Bill. It is a pity that these protests are Charter which was issued on 15 Febru- ture is bleak. Furthermore, many of the usually accompanied by mindless vio- ary 2012 on its website is incorrect. It objectives and articles of the AU Charter lence, assaults, murder, wanton de- states that 39 countries, rather than 40 on Democracy Elections and Govern- struction of private and public property, have signed the document; and the ance duplicate those of the AU Charter and significant lawlessness. The March dates given for Cameroon suggest it on Human and Peoples’ Rights. These 2012 report of the Human Rights Com- only signed the document after it had are not the only examples in the history mission on Water and Sanitation Defi- already ratified it which is illogical. Four of the OAU and AU; surely streamlining ciencies across South Africa that links years to get to this major milestone is a these charters and other AU agree- these to poor health, deaths, environ- reflection of the reluctance by some ments, institutions, systems and proc- mental hazards and loss of dignity is a member states (more their govern- esses would be more effective and re- wakeup call. When some commentators ments) to fully accept the winds of source efficient. Why also create new warned in 2011 that South Africa could change, expected in the democratisa- laws and institutions, when the existing face its own Arab Spring because of tion process. Many countries sign the ones are not properly being adhered to? such events they were condemned. It is Charter and then a much smaller num- In South Africa, 21 March has since 1995 interesting that senior government and ber eventually ratify it; eight of those been commemorated as Human Rights ANC officials have began making similar that signed in 2007 have still not rati- Day in remembrance of the 69 people observations. Urgent and decisive ac- fied. In one case, Sierra Leone, it took an killed in Sharpeville and the many more tion to deal with the root causes of the inexplicable 10 months to depositing wounded across South Africa during challenges already outlined in the draft the instrument of ratification with the that day when they were protesting National Development Plan issued last AU. Surprises among the 15 countries against the oppressive law that required year is required and there can be no that have ratified are Burkina Faso, Africans, largely in urban areas to carry excuses as the people increasingly get Cameroon, Chad, Ethiopia, Guinea Bis- pass books and all others who sacrificed disaffected 18 years after democratic sau, Mauritania and Rwanda consider- to end colonialism and in the change. ing their history over the past few years country. Unfortunately this year, the in the areas of democracy, elections, day and month, will be remembered for 1. These rights were at this time not for all hu- governance and human rights. Of the 13 the high number of relatively violent man beings especially the colonised people who had in many cases fought together with the Al- that have not yet signed the Charter – service delivery strikes that occurred lied countries but were denied their self- Botswana, Cape Verde and Seychelles2 across the country, including in Sharpe- determination. It would take various forms of are most surprising, considering that ville where some inhabitants were pro- struggle for many of them to win independence they are high performers in the Mo Ibra- testing the hosting of the 21 March na- him and UN human development in- tional celebrations in SOWETO and not 2. The others being: Algeria; Egypt; Eritrea; Libya; Madagascar; Malawi; Somalia; ; Tunisia; dexes which measure democracy and in their township. Why the violence this and Zimbabwe . governance amongst other variables. year since this was not the first time the The objectives of the Charter are to national celebrations had been held 3. Allegedly over R20 billion siphoned from the amongst others promote universal ten- outside Sharpeville? Some commenta- public sector annually. ets of democracy and respect for human tors have argued that economic losses rights; holding of regular free and fair were the main reason. So are we to ex- elections; institutionalising constitution- pect similar violence from other parts of alism; good governance; sustainable the country when national holidays like development and human security; gen- 16 June, 09 August and 16 December der equality; fight against corruption; which have their origins linked to spe- freedom of the press; protecting inde- cific locations in the country are not

AISA Focus 5 The Role of Media in Human Rights By Vincent Mnisi Promotion of Hu- man Rights and he United Nations Office of the Democratic Devel- High Commissioner for Human opment in Africa’ T Rights (OHCHR) explains human the International rights as the rights inherent to all hu- Federation of Jour- man beings, whatever our nationality, nalists (IFJ) said the place of residence, sex, national or eth- link between hu- nic origin, colour, religion, language, or man rights, democ- any other status. It further states that racy and develop- we are all equally entitled to our human ment is a core rights without discrimination. These question for policy- rights are all interrelated, interdepend- makers, not just in ent and indivisible. the political world, Human rights encompasses the right but within the busi- to life (water, food & shelter), freedom ness and finance from torture and slavery, right to a fair circles of the global trial, freedom of speech and Freedom of market. as troublemakers rather than serious thought conscience and religion. Human Those sentiments are being sup- actors who can fruitfully contribute to rights are the fundamental base of the ported by the 2011 UN Human Rights public debate,” she said. “Their voices South African constitution. Council report which added that be- deserve to be heard, and they should The main focus of this opinion piece is to cause of the potential impact on society not be threatened as a result of their reflect of the role of the media across that journalists and media workers can engagement.” the globe in educating citizens about have by disseminating information In South Africa, the announcement human rights, especially in developing about human rights through a wide ar- by the ANC to introduce the Protection continents of Africa, Asia and the Middle ray of media, those individuals are often of State Information Bill in 2010 was East. Media is one of the met with an uproar of pro- most important tools to tests and marches with many promote and highlight the seeing it as the end to press importance of observing freedom in South Africa. The human rights and in to- National Council of Provinces day’s world of informa- received 261 written submis- tion sharing and new me- sions against the bill from dia (social networks) and ordinary citizens, political globalisation, their role parties, media practitioners has just become more and owners, human rights important. lawyers and civil society. In a recent United Most are questioning the Nations (UN) report pre- validity of the bill in a democ- sented at the December ratic country like South Africa 2011 General Assembly and most are advocating for Ms. Margaret Sekaggya a public interest clause to who is the UN’s Human ensure that whistle-blowers Rights Council Special Rapporteur, said threatened, wounded and killed in an and media are not targeted for exposing journalists reporting on human rights attempt to silence their voices. The re- anything they think the government need greater protection, this in the port also indicates that in most in- might want to classify. The government wake of the death of Marie Colvin, a stances, for example the “Arab Spring”, has maintained its stance that the bill is journalist and Remi Ochlik, a photogra- it is the youth and students that have merely looking at regulating the media pher whilst covering the uprising in played a key role in the promotion of and protecting state secrets. Syria. The violation of human rights de- human rights and in placing new ideas fenders has been a hotly debated topic on the human rights agenda. in the continent of Africa. In its 1999 “However, members of youth and stu- report entitled ‘The Role of Media in dent movements are in many cases seen Continues on page 7 AISA Focus 6 Continues from page 6 ists are still being threatened or killed. Tribune in 1999 former UN Secretary “Human rights defenders have the right General, Kofi Annan said “Press freedom Many western observers argue that Afri- to protection, and it is the State’s re- is a cornerstone of human rights. It can, Middle Eastern and Asian govern- sponsibility to ensure this protection, so holds governments responsible for their ments should put up strong pro human that defenders can carry out their im- acts, and serves a warning to all that rights policies that will be inclusive of portant and legitimate work in an ena- impunity is an illusion.” the media and any institutions that are bling environment,” she underscored. promoting transparency and democracy. It is an undisputed fact that the role of Though many journalists are suppose the media in protecting human rights to be protected by The Universal Decla- has always been ambiguous and at the ration of Human Rights or by the African same time, been very important tool for Charter on Human and People’s Rights, democracy and the freedom of speech. Sekaggya also added that many journal- Speaking at the International Herald

ucts, assessing the extent of the application of food safety Dr Thokozani Simelane standards (HACCP and ISO 22000) between South Africa and Mozambique appeared to be ideal, especially as South Research Fieldwork in Africa is a major source of food and associated commodi- ties (i.e. house hold appliances and groceries) for Mozam- Mozambique bique. As the production capacities of the two countries are not at the same level, investigating the extent of the application of food safety standards by small and medium traders or businesses was considered to be a fair approach of the study.

2. What was your experience on this fieldwork?

The experience obtained during the field study was a re- alisation that Mozambique presents a vibrant economy that is largely supported by the consumption of food products that are imported from South Africa. In return, Mozambique’s food exports to South Africa include prawns, cashew nuts and various species of fish. The con- sumption of food products that are imported from South Africa offers unlimited trade opportunities for South Af- rica

3. What is your overall analysis on the processes and pro- cedures regarding fieldwork? 1. What is the title of your research field work and why did you choose Mozambique? Fieldwork is a multi faceted activity that requires input and support from various units, both within and outside AISA. Title: A comparative assessment of the application of food As an example, the role that was played by the Mozambi- safety standards (HACCP and ISO 2200) by small and me can High Commission in introducing me to people who dium sized enterprises/traders in South Africa and Mozam- were relevant to my study made my life easy when I was in bique Mozambique. Inputs from research assistants, travelling agents and finance all had some contribution in the suc- Reason for the study cess of my fieldwork.

With the increase of trade relations between South Africa and Mozambique, it has become necessary to investigate 4. What should we look forward from your fieldwork? the extent to which the implementation of standards be- tween the two countries can enhance trade relations. How A seminar presentation, conference presentation and pub- ever, since trade relations between South Africa and Mo- lications. (more details of seminar in the April Issue) zambique are largely confined within the agricultural prod-

AISA Focus 7 Men in the Making at AISA By Vincent Mnisi extra mural activities and inter-personal skills with he Africa Institute of South Af- your peers, teachers, rica (AISA), was one of the many families and communities” T organisations in South Africa he added. that participated in the Men in the The learners were Making initiative, by hosting 15 boy taken on a tour of all learners from Central Secondary AISA’s divisions and they School in Soshanguve, Tshwane on 29 had an opportunity to in- March 2012. teract with the staff mem- Welcoming the learners, Dr Matlot- bers and get hands on ex- leng Matlou explained the value and perience of what is to work the importance that motivated AISA to as Cartographers, Re- participate in the initiative, as well as searchers, Accountants, providing the learners with an over- Librarians, Internal Audi- view of the history of the organisaion. tors, GIS Specialists and “AISA is an organisation that looks at Information Specialists. the development of Africa and South Mrs Kekana a teacher Africa through knowledge develop- at Central Secondary School said “I people who are knowledgeable, I have ment, including capacity building, es- found the visit to be educational and learned more about their positions pecially of the youth. I believe that informative as it opened doors on and information about our country your presence here will go a long way more career opportunities for the was the highlight of my day. AISA has in showing you what is like to be in a learners. AISA has given them a sense contributed a lot to me as a student to working place and add to your knowl- take my studies seriously and pay edge and possibly interest in working attention in getting more knowl- as researchers in future” said Dr Mat- edge,” said Tshepo Molefe, who is lou. doing his final year and wants to pur- He added that the learners should sue a career in Geographic Informa- take full advantage and broaden their tion Systems (GIS). knowledge about Africa and learn im- The learners where also presented portant life skills that they could apply with certificates of attendance and in their daily activities. Dr Matlou used maps as gift in recognition of their the example of two of the learners participation. who did not have on the full school The Men in uniform or being properly attired to the Making cam- emphasise the challenges of ill- paign is a Tracker discipline, tarnishing of the school’s of work experience developed initia- name and that of the families of the as they always learn tive that is sup- learners, as some of the issues that the about the theory ported by Metro learners should reflect on in the proc- and today it was FM and The Star ess of being men in the making. The hands on”. Newspaper en- school is an organization just like the Bongani Baloyi a dorsed by the work place where there is a necessity grade 11 learner Department of for rules, team effort and living of the said “Our visit today Basic Education brand. Learning and imbibing these gave me the knowledge and experi- with the primary objective to help lessons early would make it easier ence that will shape my life. It showed raise responsible young men through make the transition easier when learn- me how important research is and the introduction to role models, career ers were adults and joined the work how useful it can be. It really boosted guidance, mentoring, guidance and place. my self confidence towards my career support, life skills development and “We would like to see all of you and I enjoyed the hands on experience moral regeneration. become complete human beings who it taught us about being organised and are well rounded in all aspects of life punctual”. starting with your education, then “It was really great to interact with

AISA Focus 8 Schools Outreach Programme

By Malatji Godfrey

he Library and Documentation Services Division (LDS) represented by Mrs Salamina Molamu and Mr Sam T Mokgohloa, participated at the Africa Awareness and Career Guidance Expo as part of the LDS Schools Outreach Programme. The event was hosted in Rustenburg, North West province from the 21–24th of February 2012.

The exhibition was organised by the Bojanala District of Edu- cation in collaboration with Career Exhibition and Informa- tion Association (CEIA), under the theme ‘My Career, My Passion.’

The exhibition was attended by 5433 learners from 64 schools, ranging from grade 9 to12. The AISA exhibition Mrs Molamu with high school student at the Africa stand was also a hive of activity with curious learners eager Awareness and Career Guidance Expo. to find out about how AISA produces knowledge for devel- opment. Learners that visited the stand received AISA’s pro- motional materials such as maps, books and calendars, which were on display.

The learners showed interest in the Institute and were im- pressed with AISA’s programmes. LDS also received a num- ber of enquiries from teachers and learners who wanted to know how to go about joining AISA and what it takes for one to become a researcher.

Mrs Molamu said that “AISA is dedicated to knowledge pro- duction, education, training and promotion of awareness on Africa. It is through this exhibition that awareness on Africa is created and learners are exposed to social science as a career. It has been discovered that history learners were not aware about other career opportunities, and as a result they Mr Mokgohloa with the school student. would enrol for law even when they not interested in it”.

Furthermore, learners and teachers where interested to know how to access the AISA library and where they could do so.

LDS also took the opportunity to share knowledge and en- courage the teachers to utilise the materials that were pro- vided by AISA, especially maps, as their additional teaching aid tools. They were also informed about the relevance of AISA as an academic resource that could be used for pur- poses of their career development.

All in all, it was a very successful and rewarding week.

AISA Focus 9 From the Archives: African countries celebrating their independence during March

BY Elize van As

hana is a country in West Africa and home to the larg- est artificial lake in the world by surface area, Lake G Volta. In 1874, the British established the Gold Coast Crown colony over parts, but not all of the country (figure 2). In 1957, the Gold Coast achieved independence from the United Kingdom. It was the first sub-Saharan African nation that achieved independence from European Colonialism. The word Ghana means “Warrior King” and the new nation chose the name as it derived from the ancient Ghana Empire that once extended throughout much of West Africa. The chiefs and peo- ple resisted the policies of the British which lead to many wars between the colonial powers and the various nation-states in the area. After World War II moves toward decolonisation in- tensified. The United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC) was formed and called for “self-government within the shortest possible time”. In 1948, rioting increased. Members of the United Gold Coast Convention were arrested, one being the future prime minister and president Kwame Nkrumah. On his release, Nkrumah formed his own party, the Convention Peo- ple’s Party (CPP), with the motto “Self-Governing Now” and began a ‘Positive Action’ campaign. He was again imprisoned, but released after winning a majority in the Legislative Assem- bly in 1952, and appointed leader of the government business. After further negotiation with Britain, Nkrumah declared Ghana “free forever” on 6 March 1957.

Accra, capital of Ghana – main business centre Independence Monument

AISA Focus 10 Continues on page 11 Continues from page 10

auritius is an island east of Madagascar in the southwest Indian Ocean (figure 1). The M Republic of Mauritius includes the islands of Cargados Carajos, Rodrigues and the Agalega Islands. In 1715, France took control of Mauritius and renamed it Île de France. A naval base and shipbuilding centre were established at Port Louis. Until 1767, the island was administered by the French East India Company. Between 1767 and 1810, the in- habitants set up a government virtually independent of France and the island was then controlled by officials appointed by the French government. During this pe- riod, French corsairs used Île de France as a base to raid British commercial ships. In 1810 a strong Royal Navy expedition was sent to capture the island. On 3 Decem- ber 1810 the French formally surrendered to the British invasion in terms of allowing the settlers to keep their land and property and to use the French language and law of France in criminal and civil matters. Under the British administration, rapid social and economic changes were introduced like the abolish- ment of slavery in 1835, which had important repercus- sions. Under the French governorship, a prosperous economy based on sugar production developed. Slaves had been imported from Africa and Madagascar to work in the sugar cane fields. The planters turned to India. Indentured la- bourers were brought in to work in the sugar cane fields. Additionally, some 8740 Indian soldiers were brought in by Britain. Massive immigration from Madagascar, Southern and Eastern Africa, Mozambique and the Comoros took place. With the arri- val of Chinese immigrants later, the colony was transformed into a predominantly Asiatic population. The country’s populace is composed of several ethnicities, including Indian, African, French and Chinese. However, the first European explorers found no indigenous people living on the island. Following a number of constitutional conferences held in London between 1955 and 1965, the ministerial system was introduced which paved the way for Mauritius to achieve independence. On 12 March 1968, Mauritius adopted a new constitution and independence was gained. On 12 March 1992, Mauritius became a republic.

Port Louis, capital of Mauritius Government House

AISA Focus 11 Continues on page 13 Human Rights in Africa

By Bongani Masango and Otsile Male- and curtailed rights baco during election peri- s South Africa celebrates the ods and beyond to historic Human Rights Day, for hold on to power. A many countries in Africa human That being men- rights remains a pipe dream. At times tioned, there are we think that governments are the several factors that guardians of their citizens but, same explain why some governments are enemies to their citi- states don’t respect zens. Even after many decades of inde- human right. A pendence in many African countries, the states deteriorating upholding of human rights in the conti- economic condition nent is reported to be poor and is seen is one of the factors as an area of grave concern, this is ac- that leads to the cording to the United Nations (UN)’s violation of human governmental and non-governmental rights, the poorer observers. the state the more likely it is that human source extraction occurs at the expense While the UN system, international rights abuses will occur, the other factor of communities, who are forced off their law through regional institution such as is the cultural factor, when a society is ancestral lands and expected to survive the African Union (AU), have all contrib- divided on ethnic, racial religious or under adverse conditions. uted to the establishment of the human ideaology, political repression is likely to A notable case is that of the oil in the rights charter in Africa in promoting hu- happen as this may explain human rights Niger delta where huge sources of con- man dignity through treaties, which has violations in Africa. flict exist. The Ogoni people in particular positively influenced the advancement Countries with reported major hu- for many years watched the oil re- of human rights and of justice, it must man rights violations recently include, sources on their lands being extracted be said that some of the promises made but are not limited to, Zimbabwe, Libe- by large corporations like Shell without about such rights being guaranteed un- ria, Sierra Leone, Swaziland, Sudan and any benefit reaching their areas. Fur- der global, continental, national and Côte d'Ivoire; where it is reported that thermore, their lands increasingly be- regional legal framework have remained violations include extrajudicial execu- came more polluted by the oil industry unfulfilled. tion, mutilation, and rape. The ’s and less productive. When their move- It has been estimated that only a few civil war, which began in 1975 and con- ments started to protest, their most of the 54 African nations can be consid- tinued, with some interludes, until 2002 prominent leader, Ken Saro-Wiwa, was ered truly democratic, extensive human between People's Movement for the brutally killed by the regime. rights abuses still occur in several parts Liberation of Angola (MPLA) and the In Sudan’s Darfur, where whole of Africa, often under the oversight of Jonas Savimbi led National Union for the communities are being displaced by the governments. Most of such human Total Independence of Angola (UNITA), state-sanctioned militias like Janjaweed, rights violations can be attributed to is one example of how civil wars can the alleged underlying reason for this is political instability, often as a 'side ef- escalate and lead to mass human rights that the central state wants to gain con- fect' of civil wars. In conflict situations, violations. The UNITA forces gained con- trol over natural resources like oil, to where natural resources are often con- trol over a large part of the diamond fulfill contracts with China. The gross tested or looted, there is a strong ten- industry, and began to rely on it to fi- violations of human rights in Darfur are dency for human rights to be violated by nance their war efforts, at the detriment well known to the international commu- those who are in battle. The continued of the general public. nity, yet they continue, and are among conflict often results in breaks down of The Democratic Republic of Congo Africa’s most severe cases of resource- the rule of law, and the judicial system (DRC) civil war also exhibited similar based human rights abuses. Is Anarchy ceases to operate effectively. traits. The armies were accused of tak- in Africa the reason for human rights The Human Rights Watch has de- ing advantage of the lawlessness to op- violations? scribed elections held throughout sub- erate mines and remove their wealth at Saharan Africa in 2011 as a positive sig- the disadvantage of the citizens. The nal of a growing formal commitment to communities’ human rights continue to democratic rule, but added that most be ignored by some states. There are a Africa’s leaders have deployed violence number of cases in Africa where re-

AISA Focus 12 Continues from page 11

Legislative Assembly

orocco, a North Africa country (figure 1) derived its name from M Spanish “Marruecos” or Portuguese “Marrocos”, originating from the medieval Latin “Morroch”, which referred to Marrakesh, the former capital of Almoravid and Almohad. The Berber word combination Mur n Akush (Marrakesh) means Land of God. In 1912, with the signing of the Treaty of Fez, following the First Moroccan Crisis and the Agadir Crisis, Morocco was divided into a French and a Spanish protectorate (figure 2). In 1956, Morocco regained independence from France and Spain and became the King- dom of Morocco. In 1956 and 1958, Moroccan control over certain Spanish-ruled areas was restored. With the signing of the Tangier Pro- tocol on 29 October 1956, the nationalised city of Tangier was reintegrated.

Tangier – a view of the harbour area Tangier – the Esplanade

AISA Focus 13 Continues on page 14 Continues from page 1

On 3 March 1961 Hassan II became King of Morocco. The early years of King Hassan II’s rule were marked by political unrest. As the border between Morocco and Algeria was not clearly de- fined, skirmishes along the border eventually escalated into a full-blown confrontation, because of Morocco’s attempts to claim the Tindouf and Béchar areas, annexed by France to French Algeria. After the intervention of the Organisation of Afri- can Unity (OAU) and the Arab League a formal cease-fire was signed and a demilitarised zone instituted. Two enclaves located on Morocco’s Mediterranean coast, Ceuta and Melilla, are integral parts of Spain and enjoy the status of autonomous regions, electing their own governments. The two enclaves are mainly fishing and bunkering ports. Melilla is also a military base. Both have been Spanish since 1496 (Melilla) and 1580 (Ceuta). Also known as Spanish North Africa, the en- Morocco-Algeria cease-fire signed by King Hassan II and Ben Bella claves have long been claimed by Morocco.

amibia, a country in southern Africa derived its name from the Namib Desert, considered N to be the oldest in the world. In 1884 became a German colony, known as German South- West Africa. In 1915 South Africa occupied the colony after defeating the German Force during World War I. Although the South African government desired to incorporate ‘’ into its territory, it never officially did so. It was however administered as the de facto ‘fifth province’. Although the Interna- tional Court of Justice declared South Africa’s contin- ued administration of Namibia illegal in 1971, it was not until 1988 that South Africa agreed to end its occu- pation of the territory.

Mohammed Zafrullah Khan, president of the International Court of Justice who declared South Africa’s presence in Namibia (formerly South West Af- rica) illegal.

AISA Focus 14 Continues on page 15 Continues from page 14

Cabinet of the Transitional Government of National Unity in Namibia

Back row from left to right: Mr J.G.A. (Hans) Diergaardt, Minister of Local Authorities and Civic Affairs; Mr D. (Dawid) Bezuid- enhout, Minister of Transportation; Mr F.J. (Fanuel) Kozonguizi, Minister of Information; and Mr A.Z (Andreas) Shipanga, Min- ister of Mining, Commerce and Tourism. Front row from left to right: Mr A.N. (Andrew) Matjila, Minister of National Educa- tion and the Central Personnel Institution; Mr D.F. (Dirk) Mudge, Minister of Finance and Government Affairs; Mr M.K. (Moses) Katjiuongue, Minister of Manpower, National Health and Welfare; and Mr E. (Eben) van Zijl, Minister of Agriculture, Water Affairs and Sea Fisheries.

On 21 March 1990 Namibia obtained full independence from South Africa with the exception of Walvis Bay and the Penguin Islands. Only upon the end of Apartheid in South Africa in 1994 were these territories ceded to Namibia.

Walvis Bay

Walvis Bay harbour

AISA Focus 15 Continues on page 16 Continues from page 15 unisia is the north most country in Africa and derived its name from the capital Tunis. An international financial T commission took control of Tunisia in 1869 after it de- clared itself bankrupt. In 1881 the French invaded Tunisia and in terms of the Treaty of Bardo, Tunisia was officially made a French protectorate. In 1952 Tunisian trade unions launched disruptive demonstrations and strikes. More violence followed with the arrest of Habib Bourguiba and other party leaders. Anx- ious to avoid war in both Tunisia and Algeria, the French govern- ment offered self-government in 1954. On 20 March 1956, Tuni- sia gained independence from France.

Refugees after the shelling of Bizerte by the French, 21-07-1961

Bomb damage at a Tunisian village after a raid by a French aircraft, 13-02-1958

AISA Focus 16 EDITORIAL CREDITS

Editor-in-Chief

Yvette Francis

Editor

Otsile Malebaco

Contributing Editor

Vincent Mnisi

Associate Editor

Editorial Committee

Brenda Modisaotsile Godfrey Malatji Bongani Masango Conny Ratabala

Contributors

Elize van As Sam Mokgohloa

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AISA Focus 17