“Economic development and good governance are certainly closely linked. The AEO reflects this by not only discussing macroeconomic and structural developments on the continent, but also political and governance aspects. Indeed, each country note devotes a section to recent changes in the political situation and economic governance that presents annual updates in this area,” says EDRE Director, Léonce Ndikumana.
Question: What are the key themes in the 2010 African Economic Outlook (AEO) that is at the heart of today’s peer review meeting organized by the Bank?
Answer: The peer review meeting brings together the contributors to the 2010 AEO in order to discuss the detailed country-level analysis on the economic situation and prospects for AfDB Regional Member Countries (RMCs). It is a very important gathering to ensure consistent, high-quality analysis across all the 50 countries that will be covered in this year’s report.
Question: The Bank Group is in a partnership with the OECD, UNECA and the European Union. Could you explain the relevance of this collaboration to our readers?
Answer: The AEO is a large collaborative project that builds on the respective strengths of its core partners, that is, the OECD Development Center, UNECA, and the AfDB, and it enjoys financial support from the European Commission. It also benefits from the expertise and contributions of research institutes in 10 Bank Group RMCs, as well as Bank staff involvement as country note authors, peer reviewers, and discussants. This year, the AEO has a record participation of country economists in operations, including several colleagues based in field offices.
Question: What contribution is the Bank Group going to make during the deliberations? In other words, what will be the Bank’s value added during the collaboration?
Answer: Since 2007, the AfDB has taken over the role of a lead partner in the project and is responsible for coordinating the preparation of the report and for undertaking key parts of the analysis, notably the overview of economic developments on the continent, the preparation of the economic forecasts, and the drafting of the majority of country notes.
Question: The Bank Group has played its role before, during and after the global financial crisis which hit the continent. A look at the economic aggregates of some African countries shows a great improvement in terms of economic performance. For example, Malawi, which the AfDB President, Donald Kaberuka, has cited on more than one occasion, is showing signs of growth. We are witnessing economic growth in this country. Some hold that this gives to understand that there is a positive link between economic prosperity and good governance. What is your view regarding this?
Answer: Economic development and good governance are certainly closely linked. The AEO reflects this by not only discussing macroeconomic and structural developments on the continent, but also political and governance aspects. Indeed, each country note devotes a section to recent changes in the political situation and economic governance that presents annual updates in this area.
Question: You have underscored that bilateral and multilateral partners, including the World Bank and the IMF should increase official development assistance to Africa to help position the continent for the post-crisis period. Do you thin this call was heard given that all the promises were not fulfilled and that developed countries are posting high levels of unemployment and other economic indicators are pointing south? Should the continent still count on aid?
Answer: Every year, the AEO addresses a particular theme of high relevance to the continent. The theme for the 2010 edition of the report is: “Public Resource Mobilization and Aid” and this directly relates to the issue you have raised. The thematic discussion in the country notes and the Africa-wide synthesis will present information on the situation and prospects of mobilizing resources for development with a view to addressing the large investment needs in Bank Group RMCs, becoming less dependent on external financial resources, and strengthening the accountability and legitimacy of public spending by establishing stronger links between governments and tax-paying citizens.
Question: Most African countries are faced with growing deficits with ever growing expenses. As an economist, which sectors should African countries depend on to attain growth?
Answer: The Africa’s economic situation is highly diverse, so that one has to carefully look at individual countries to address your question properly. But what is clear is that while the financial and economic crisis did not originate in Africa, it affected countries on the continent quickly through global markets. The same transmission channels of global trade, financial flows, worker remittances, and tourism revenues are now also driving the recovery. I would very much like to share with you our forecasts for 2010 and 2011, but deriving and discussing these is part of the objective of the peer review meeting that we are holding in Gammarth this week.
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Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Press Release from Concern Worldwide-Malawi
For more information, please contact:
Joseph Scott
Office: +265 (0) 1 776 811| Mobile: +265 (0) 99 913 4949 Email: joseph.scott@concern.net
Concern Worldwide competition generates exciting new ideas to improve healthcare for mothers and children in Malawi
Lilongwe, 1st February 2010
Over 6,000 people throughout Malawi responded to the Concern Worldwide national call for ideas, submitting their entries to the Share an Idea, Save a Life competition during October and November of 2009.
In this unique competition, Concern Worldwide asked the public for bold, new ideas to break down a key barrier that exists between life-saving health services and the mothers and children who need them most. While free health services are available throughout Malawi, many families are unwilling to use them because of worries about the quality of care they will receive. This is the challenge for which the competition asked Malawians from all walks of life to share ideas.
“The response was phenomenal. We are thrilled that so many people throughout Malawi were mobilized and participated—not only by submitting ideas, but also by raising awareness,” said Steven Zarnfaller, Country Manager for Concern Worldwide’s Innovations for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Initiative. “We received a wide range of ideas. Independent assessors selected by Concern Worldwide from Malawi and from around the world helped assess the 6,136 ideas we received. The entrants with the 29 most promising ideas were invited to the semi-finals on 13 January.”
One of the semi-finalists was Beatrice Kabambe, who explained that her participation in the competition was spurred by a personal crisis from childhood: “A lot of issues motivated me to submit my idea in the competition. But personally, my mum died during labour when I was five years old. I grew up without a mum, and the baby who was supposed to be my brother also died in this tragedy. The death of my mother is still vivid in my memories, and it’s painful to see that many women in rural areas are still dying due to pregnancy-related issues. I hope my idea will help them through,” said Beatrice.
On 13 January, Concern engaged a diverse, multi-disciplinary panel of judges to hear pitches from the 29 semi-finalists. From this group, the judges selected six finalists whose ideas had the most potential and were most innovative.
“The judges were impressed by the quality of the presentations. It was wonderful to see how passionate the semi-finalists were about improving health care for mothers and children. This competition sends an important message about the huge potential within Malawi to find new solutions to the problems we face,” said Thembi Thadzi, a judge, youth activist, and Board Chairperson of the National Youth Council of Malawi.
The six finalists will receive cash prizes and mentoring and technical support to further develop their ideas in preparation for the final round of judging in April 2010. The ultimate goal is to select and rigorously field test up to 3 ideas to evaluate their potential to significantly increase coverage of proven maternal, newborn and child health interventions.
“We want to thank everyone who participated in the competition, and offer our congratulations to the finalists. This is an exciting step toward finding new solutions and saving the lives of more and more mothers and children in Malawi using ideas generated by the people in Malawi” said Balwant Singh, Global Director of Innovations for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health.
For more information, or to request an interview with Country Director A.K.M. Musha and/or Innovations Country Manager Steven Zarnfaller please contact: Joseph Scott, Communications Officer
Office: +265 (0) 1 776 811 | Mobile: +265 (0) 99 913 4949 Email: joseph.scott@concern.net
Notes for editors:
About Concern Worldwide
Concern Worldwide (Concern) is a non-governmental, international, humanitarian organisation dedicated to the reduction of suffering and working towards the ultimate elimination of extreme poverty in the world’s poorest countries. Founded in Ireland in 1968, Concern works in 28 countries throughout Africa, Asia and the Caribbean. We provide emergency relief and long-term development assistance in the areas of education, health, livelihoods, and HIV & AIDS.
Our vision is a world where no-one lives in poverty, fear or oppression; where all have access to a decent standard of living; access to the opportunities and choices essential to a long, healthy and creative life; a world where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
Our work in Malawi
Concern has been working in Malawi since 2002 delivering livelihood, health and education programmes within the four districts of Dowa, Lilongwe, Nkhotakota and Nsanje. Concern is well known for its innovative and quality programmes. In addition to its programmes in four districts Concern supports the Community Therapeutic Care Advisory Service (CAS) which sits within the Ministry of Health to scale up and institutionalise the Community Based Therapeutic Care (CTC), an innovative approach of treating severe acute malnutrition among children. Concern works for the poorest and most vulnerable people and promotes sustainable development approach where people of Malawi, its government and the local institutions are supported to take leadership of the development process.
To find out more information on the work of Concern you can visit our website at www.concern.net.
The Innovations Initiative
In 2009 Concern Worldwide began a five-year Innovations for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (or Innovations in short) initiative to support the development and field testing of bold and inventive ways to overcome barriers to delivering proven maternal, newborn and child health solutions in six countries. Innovations will start in Malawi, India and Sierra Leone, where significant obstacles to achieving the 2015 Millennium Development Goals for maternal & child health are present.
Proven healthcare interventions already exist that have the potential to save millions of lives. The challenge is to effectively deliver these interventions so as to reach all the mothers and children who need them.
Innovations in Malawi
In Malawi, Innovations aimed to generate thousands of ideas from new and often unheard voices with untapped natural potential through a competition promoted through a national media and outreach campaign. The competition was open for one month, and is now being followed by three rounds of judging. At the end of the competition, 3 ideas will be selected. The 3 winning ideas will be awarded grants of up to US$450,000 to be rigorously tested at the district level over an 18 to 24 month period in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and UNICEF. The competition is open only to individuals who are legal residents or citizens of Malawi and to groups or organizations who are composed of legal residents or citizens of Malawi.
Over the past decade, Malawi has made huge progress in improving the availability of healthcare. Developing these healthcare services even further is essential to Malawi’s future.
The Challenge Area
Free health services are available throughout Malawi, but many families, particularly pregnant women, women in labour, and those with sick children, are unwilling to use them.
A key barrier is that many families feel they do not receive the quality healthcare services expected. Some people worry about the quality of care they will receive or they are unwilling to use health services because of negative past experience.
This can result in the unnecessary deaths of mothers, babies and children.
Joseph Scott
Office: +265 (0) 1 776 811| Mobile: +265 (0) 99 913 4949 Email: joseph.scott@concern.net
Concern Worldwide competition generates exciting new ideas to improve healthcare for mothers and children in Malawi
Lilongwe, 1st February 2010
Over 6,000 people throughout Malawi responded to the Concern Worldwide national call for ideas, submitting their entries to the Share an Idea, Save a Life competition during October and November of 2009.
In this unique competition, Concern Worldwide asked the public for bold, new ideas to break down a key barrier that exists between life-saving health services and the mothers and children who need them most. While free health services are available throughout Malawi, many families are unwilling to use them because of worries about the quality of care they will receive. This is the challenge for which the competition asked Malawians from all walks of life to share ideas.
“The response was phenomenal. We are thrilled that so many people throughout Malawi were mobilized and participated—not only by submitting ideas, but also by raising awareness,” said Steven Zarnfaller, Country Manager for Concern Worldwide’s Innovations for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Initiative. “We received a wide range of ideas. Independent assessors selected by Concern Worldwide from Malawi and from around the world helped assess the 6,136 ideas we received. The entrants with the 29 most promising ideas were invited to the semi-finals on 13 January.”
One of the semi-finalists was Beatrice Kabambe, who explained that her participation in the competition was spurred by a personal crisis from childhood: “A lot of issues motivated me to submit my idea in the competition. But personally, my mum died during labour when I was five years old. I grew up without a mum, and the baby who was supposed to be my brother also died in this tragedy. The death of my mother is still vivid in my memories, and it’s painful to see that many women in rural areas are still dying due to pregnancy-related issues. I hope my idea will help them through,” said Beatrice.
On 13 January, Concern engaged a diverse, multi-disciplinary panel of judges to hear pitches from the 29 semi-finalists. From this group, the judges selected six finalists whose ideas had the most potential and were most innovative.
“The judges were impressed by the quality of the presentations. It was wonderful to see how passionate the semi-finalists were about improving health care for mothers and children. This competition sends an important message about the huge potential within Malawi to find new solutions to the problems we face,” said Thembi Thadzi, a judge, youth activist, and Board Chairperson of the National Youth Council of Malawi.
The six finalists will receive cash prizes and mentoring and technical support to further develop their ideas in preparation for the final round of judging in April 2010. The ultimate goal is to select and rigorously field test up to 3 ideas to evaluate their potential to significantly increase coverage of proven maternal, newborn and child health interventions.
“We want to thank everyone who participated in the competition, and offer our congratulations to the finalists. This is an exciting step toward finding new solutions and saving the lives of more and more mothers and children in Malawi using ideas generated by the people in Malawi” said Balwant Singh, Global Director of Innovations for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health.
For more information, or to request an interview with Country Director A.K.M. Musha and/or Innovations Country Manager Steven Zarnfaller please contact: Joseph Scott, Communications Officer
Office: +265 (0) 1 776 811 | Mobile: +265 (0) 99 913 4949 Email: joseph.scott@concern.net
Notes for editors:
About Concern Worldwide
Concern Worldwide (Concern) is a non-governmental, international, humanitarian organisation dedicated to the reduction of suffering and working towards the ultimate elimination of extreme poverty in the world’s poorest countries. Founded in Ireland in 1968, Concern works in 28 countries throughout Africa, Asia and the Caribbean. We provide emergency relief and long-term development assistance in the areas of education, health, livelihoods, and HIV & AIDS.
Our vision is a world where no-one lives in poverty, fear or oppression; where all have access to a decent standard of living; access to the opportunities and choices essential to a long, healthy and creative life; a world where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
Our work in Malawi
Concern has been working in Malawi since 2002 delivering livelihood, health and education programmes within the four districts of Dowa, Lilongwe, Nkhotakota and Nsanje. Concern is well known for its innovative and quality programmes. In addition to its programmes in four districts Concern supports the Community Therapeutic Care Advisory Service (CAS) which sits within the Ministry of Health to scale up and institutionalise the Community Based Therapeutic Care (CTC), an innovative approach of treating severe acute malnutrition among children. Concern works for the poorest and most vulnerable people and promotes sustainable development approach where people of Malawi, its government and the local institutions are supported to take leadership of the development process.
To find out more information on the work of Concern you can visit our website at www.concern.net.
The Innovations Initiative
In 2009 Concern Worldwide began a five-year Innovations for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (or Innovations in short) initiative to support the development and field testing of bold and inventive ways to overcome barriers to delivering proven maternal, newborn and child health solutions in six countries. Innovations will start in Malawi, India and Sierra Leone, where significant obstacles to achieving the 2015 Millennium Development Goals for maternal & child health are present.
Proven healthcare interventions already exist that have the potential to save millions of lives. The challenge is to effectively deliver these interventions so as to reach all the mothers and children who need them.
Innovations in Malawi
In Malawi, Innovations aimed to generate thousands of ideas from new and often unheard voices with untapped natural potential through a competition promoted through a national media and outreach campaign. The competition was open for one month, and is now being followed by three rounds of judging. At the end of the competition, 3 ideas will be selected. The 3 winning ideas will be awarded grants of up to US$450,000 to be rigorously tested at the district level over an 18 to 24 month period in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and UNICEF. The competition is open only to individuals who are legal residents or citizens of Malawi and to groups or organizations who are composed of legal residents or citizens of Malawi.
Over the past decade, Malawi has made huge progress in improving the availability of healthcare. Developing these healthcare services even further is essential to Malawi’s future.
The Challenge Area
Free health services are available throughout Malawi, but many families, particularly pregnant women, women in labour, and those with sick children, are unwilling to use them.
A key barrier is that many families feel they do not receive the quality healthcare services expected. Some people worry about the quality of care they will receive or they are unwilling to use health services because of negative past experience.
This can result in the unnecessary deaths of mothers, babies and children.
Malawi gay activists 'must be more open'
The Malawi authorities have told gay activists who put up posters and distribute leaflets on the streets anonymously to "come out in the open".
Government official Kingsley Namakhwa said it was against the law to mount such campaigns anonymously.
But he also pointed out that homosexuality was illegal, and anyone promoting it would be prosecuted.
Rights groups have recently criticised Malawi for prosecuting two men who got engaged to each other.
Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza, believed to be the first gay couple in Malawi to start the marriage process, have pleaded not guilty to charges of public indecency.
Their trial is due to start soon.
"As far as the Malawi government is concerned we only have two gays in Malawi - Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga," said Mr Namakhwa.
"If there are others, let them come out in the open."
The BBC's Raphael Tenthani, in the main city Blantyre, says the police have intensified the hunt for a man who they believe is behind a gay-rights campaign.
It follows the conviction of a 21-year-old man for pasting gay-rights posters on poles along the streets.
Peter Sawali had put up posters saying "gay rights are human rights" and was convicted of conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace.
Police say Sawali had been given the posters by another man - whom they are now trying to track down.
Sawali was sentenced to community service for his crime - our correspondent says his punishment is to clean the premises of Blantyre Magistrates Court for 60 days.
Government official Kingsley Namakhwa said it was against the law to mount such campaigns anonymously.
But he also pointed out that homosexuality was illegal, and anyone promoting it would be prosecuted.
Rights groups have recently criticised Malawi for prosecuting two men who got engaged to each other.
Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza, believed to be the first gay couple in Malawi to start the marriage process, have pleaded not guilty to charges of public indecency.
Their trial is due to start soon.
"As far as the Malawi government is concerned we only have two gays in Malawi - Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga," said Mr Namakhwa.
"If there are others, let them come out in the open."
The BBC's Raphael Tenthani, in the main city Blantyre, says the police have intensified the hunt for a man who they believe is behind a gay-rights campaign.
It follows the conviction of a 21-year-old man for pasting gay-rights posters on poles along the streets.
Peter Sawali had put up posters saying "gay rights are human rights" and was convicted of conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace.
Police say Sawali had been given the posters by another man - whom they are now trying to track down.
Sawali was sentenced to community service for his crime - our correspondent says his punishment is to clean the premises of Blantyre Magistrates Court for 60 days.
Ethiopian troops cross into Somalia
Ethiopian troops have crossed back into the northern regions of Bakool and Hiiraan in Somalia, local residents said. This comes as Somali government vows fresh offensive against Islamist insurgents in the country. Residents in Elbarde and Yeed said they saw convey of Ethiopian troops accompanied by hundreds of Somali military trained in Ethiopia in the towns on Sunday.
Ethiopian troops seized the family of a man with links to al Shabaab insurgents, Reuters reported. Residents said troops went to El Barde and Yeed on Saturday seeking the man.
"The man escaped, but they took with them his wife and three children. They also took the escaped man's brother and family. The troops have now gone but I understand they are in the outskirts of the town," a town resident, Hussein Ronow, told Reuters.
Another residents in the Sariirale, a town on the Ethiopian border in Somalia's Hiiran region said that hundreds of Ethiopian troops have entered the town.
Residents said that Ethiopian troops have searched houses in the town.
Ethiopian officials could not be reached for comment about the reports but Ethiopia denies frequently that its troops re-entered Somalia.
Ethiopia entered Somalia in 2006 to help oust Islamist forces from the capital Mogadishu but withdrew under a UN-backed peace deal.
Ethiopia already made it clear that it still reserve the right to intervene in Somalia if its interests were directly threatened. Somali government has not commented about this development.
Ethiopian troops seized the family of a man with links to al Shabaab insurgents, Reuters reported. Residents said troops went to El Barde and Yeed on Saturday seeking the man.
"The man escaped, but they took with them his wife and three children. They also took the escaped man's brother and family. The troops have now gone but I understand they are in the outskirts of the town," a town resident, Hussein Ronow, told Reuters.
Another residents in the Sariirale, a town on the Ethiopian border in Somalia's Hiiran region said that hundreds of Ethiopian troops have entered the town.
Residents said that Ethiopian troops have searched houses in the town.
Ethiopian officials could not be reached for comment about the reports but Ethiopia denies frequently that its troops re-entered Somalia.
Ethiopia entered Somalia in 2006 to help oust Islamist forces from the capital Mogadishu but withdrew under a UN-backed peace deal.
Ethiopia already made it clear that it still reserve the right to intervene in Somalia if its interests were directly threatened. Somali government has not commented about this development.
Nigeria gets new acting president
Nigerian Vice President Goodluck Jonathan has assumed office as acting president, more than two months after President Umaru Yar'Adua left for medical treatment in Saudi Arabia. Parliament earlier recognised Jonathan as acting head of state in an effort to end uncertainty that has threatened to paralyse government business.
“The circumstances in which I find myself assuming office today as Acting President of our country are uncommon, sober and reflective,” Jonathan said in an address on national television, urging Nigerians to pray for Yar’Adua’s recovery and return, according to Reuters.
The fact that there was no formal transfer of power had led to doubts over who was ruling the country and raised the prospect of the worst political crisis since the end of military rule more than a decade ago.
Although Nigeria’s cabinet has previously opposed any formal transfer of powers, the justice minister said Jonathan had the government’s full support—suggesting that it would not obstruct him from acting as president.
“The cabinet has already, since the president left, recognised the vice president as the leader of the country pending when Mr President returns,” said Justice Minister and Attorney General Michael Aondoakaa.
Motions backed earlier by both chambers of parliament enable Jonathan to pass legislation and act as commander of the armed forces until Yar’Adua declares he is fit enough to resume his duties.
Yar’Adua has been receiving treatment for a heart condition for more than two months.
Jonathan said the government would take every step necessary to build on the gains of an amnesty programme in the oil-producing Niger Delta. Militants in the region have threatened fresh attacks, saying Yar’Adua’s absence was slowing the programme.
Both the Senate and House of Representatives made clear that Jonathan would hold executive powers only until the president could return to office.
“The circumstances in which I find myself assuming office today as Acting President of our country are uncommon, sober and reflective,” Jonathan said in an address on national television, urging Nigerians to pray for Yar’Adua’s recovery and return, according to Reuters.
The fact that there was no formal transfer of power had led to doubts over who was ruling the country and raised the prospect of the worst political crisis since the end of military rule more than a decade ago.
Although Nigeria’s cabinet has previously opposed any formal transfer of powers, the justice minister said Jonathan had the government’s full support—suggesting that it would not obstruct him from acting as president.
“The cabinet has already, since the president left, recognised the vice president as the leader of the country pending when Mr President returns,” said Justice Minister and Attorney General Michael Aondoakaa.
Motions backed earlier by both chambers of parliament enable Jonathan to pass legislation and act as commander of the armed forces until Yar’Adua declares he is fit enough to resume his duties.
Yar’Adua has been receiving treatment for a heart condition for more than two months.
Jonathan said the government would take every step necessary to build on the gains of an amnesty programme in the oil-producing Niger Delta. Militants in the region have threatened fresh attacks, saying Yar’Adua’s absence was slowing the programme.
Both the Senate and House of Representatives made clear that Jonathan would hold executive powers only until the president could return to office.
Senegal confirms H1N1 outbreak
The Senegalese Minister of Health and Preventive Medicine, Modou Diagne Fada, confirmed that the country had been hit by the epidemic AH1N1 influenza. According to earlier reports, the first cases were detected in the religious city of Touba and nearby Diourbel (located in the central part of the country).
These places where the scene of religious festivities, as hundreds of thousands of followers of the Mouride Muslim Brotherhood, last week gathered to celebrate the 115th edition of “Grand Magal” of Touba, in memory of the departure into exile in Gabon in 1895 of the founder of the Brotherhood, Sheikh Ahmadou Bamba. Serign Bamba, as the religious leader as called, is a revered figure for millions in this part of Africa.
Health Minister Diagne Monday convened a press briefing not only to confirm the outbreak of the disease, but also to allay fears, saying that the country was equipped enough to contain the situation.
According to the Health Minister, 14 cases of influenza A H1N1 were recorded between the three districts of Dagana, Diourbel and Touba.
Influenza, sometimes referred to as flu, is an infectious disease caused by a virus which affects birds and mammals. Sore throat, fever and coughs are some of the most frequent symptoms.
In April 2009 a strain of the flu evolved, which health experts say combined genes from human, pig, and bird flu, initially dubbed "swine flu" and also known as influenza A/H1N1. It first emerged in Mexico, the United States, and then several other nations. The World Health Organization officially declared the outbreak as a pandemic two months later.
According to health experts, Senegal does not yet have a preventive vaccine. But the Senegalese Health Minister is already calling for patients suspected of infection to be isolated until examination confirms their cases.
''We have enough resources to deal with influenza AH1N1,'' Dr Diagn said. ''We will deal with all cases and we have the means.''
The minister noted that among those infected none had died, and that all had in fact ‘‘been taken care of, treated and returned home.''
These places where the scene of religious festivities, as hundreds of thousands of followers of the Mouride Muslim Brotherhood, last week gathered to celebrate the 115th edition of “Grand Magal” of Touba, in memory of the departure into exile in Gabon in 1895 of the founder of the Brotherhood, Sheikh Ahmadou Bamba. Serign Bamba, as the religious leader as called, is a revered figure for millions in this part of Africa.
Health Minister Diagne Monday convened a press briefing not only to confirm the outbreak of the disease, but also to allay fears, saying that the country was equipped enough to contain the situation.
According to the Health Minister, 14 cases of influenza A H1N1 were recorded between the three districts of Dagana, Diourbel and Touba.
Influenza, sometimes referred to as flu, is an infectious disease caused by a virus which affects birds and mammals. Sore throat, fever and coughs are some of the most frequent symptoms.
In April 2009 a strain of the flu evolved, which health experts say combined genes from human, pig, and bird flu, initially dubbed "swine flu" and also known as influenza A/H1N1. It first emerged in Mexico, the United States, and then several other nations. The World Health Organization officially declared the outbreak as a pandemic two months later.
According to health experts, Senegal does not yet have a preventive vaccine. But the Senegalese Health Minister is already calling for patients suspected of infection to be isolated until examination confirms their cases.
''We have enough resources to deal with influenza AH1N1,'' Dr Diagn said. ''We will deal with all cases and we have the means.''
The minister noted that among those infected none had died, and that all had in fact ‘‘been taken care of, treated and returned home.''
Africa: victim of poor quality malaria drugs
Africans suffering from malaria may be receiving sub-standard treatment; this is according to a study released by US based experts. The Pharmacopeia group researchers revealed that between 26% and 44% of anti-malaria drugs in Madagascar, Senegal and Uganda were of poor quality.
Low-quality drugs were being used in both public and private health practice.
90% of those lost their life for malaria in the world happened in Africa, according to the report.
The experts subjected 200 samples of anti-malaria drugs to quality-control testing in a US laboratory, BBC reported.
44% of the drugs from Senegal failed the testing, followed by 30% from Madagascar and 26% from Uganda, researchers said.
They also studied drugs from seven other countries - Cameroon, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria and Tanzania, but have not yet released results from that data.
Half of the world's population is at risk of malaria, and an estimated 243 million cases led to estimated 863 000 deaths in 2008, WHO said.
WHO's malaria programme chief, Robert Newman, said low-grade versions of the drug could increase resistance because they would not kill all of the parasites.
"There are a number of things that need to be done - as a global community we need to support countries in strengthening their regulatory controls," he added.
Low-quality drugs were being used in both public and private health practice.
90% of those lost their life for malaria in the world happened in Africa, according to the report.
The experts subjected 200 samples of anti-malaria drugs to quality-control testing in a US laboratory, BBC reported.
44% of the drugs from Senegal failed the testing, followed by 30% from Madagascar and 26% from Uganda, researchers said.
They also studied drugs from seven other countries - Cameroon, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria and Tanzania, but have not yet released results from that data.
Half of the world's population is at risk of malaria, and an estimated 243 million cases led to estimated 863 000 deaths in 2008, WHO said.
WHO's malaria programme chief, Robert Newman, said low-grade versions of the drug could increase resistance because they would not kill all of the parasites.
"There are a number of things that need to be done - as a global community we need to support countries in strengthening their regulatory controls," he added.
Solar-powered phones make life easier
Access to mobile phone in rural Kenya was recently made cheaper and more attractive for the low-income peasants. Safaricom Company has introduced solar-powered mobile phones that not only cost little money but also put an end to long journeys and waiting time for electrical charging.
An average electricity-powered phone costs around Ksh 2,500 but the newly introduced, solar-powered ones cost only around Ksh 2,000. Moreover, instead of paying Ksh20 every two or three days to charge the battery, the owner of the solar phone will make no extra expenses on the phone. Also, they are reachable in the night, as they no longer have to switch their phones off to spare energy.
Safaricom introduced these phones barely two years after the introduction of the mobile banking system known as Mpesa. This made money transactions even easier and instant, as they take place outside the traditional, bureaucratic banking system.
An average electricity-powered phone costs around Ksh 2,500 but the newly introduced, solar-powered ones cost only around Ksh 2,000. Moreover, instead of paying Ksh20 every two or three days to charge the battery, the owner of the solar phone will make no extra expenses on the phone. Also, they are reachable in the night, as they no longer have to switch their phones off to spare energy.
Safaricom introduced these phones barely two years after the introduction of the mobile banking system known as Mpesa. This made money transactions even easier and instant, as they take place outside the traditional, bureaucratic banking system.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Lake Malawi certification on
Department of Fisheries officials have reiterated government's commitment to certiying Lake Malawi, in a bid to array persistent Bilhazia fears.
Tanzania serious on solving border conflict with Malawi
The government of Tanzania has directed that all relevant authorities commence technical procedures to work on boundary conflicts with the neighbouring Malawi.
Prime Minister Mizengo Pinda said negotiations have been underway between Tanzania and Malawi to reach consensus on the boundary conflict. However, he admitted that there has for a long time been a tag of war in agreeing on where exactly the boundary is located.
Tanzania and Malawi have been in an underground conflict on the boundary on Lake Nyasa. Despite the ongoing tag of war between the two countries, Pinda expressed hopes that the matter can be resolved through international procedures.
"It is true that the issue has taken a long time. However, it is discussable and there are international procedures to solve such matters," noted Pinda. The Prime Minister was responding to question by Ludewa MP Professor Raphael Mwalyosi who wanted to know if the government has failed to resolve the matter.
The MP also wanted to know if the negotiations between the two countries on the boundary location would by any means affects any development programmes. In his response, Pinda assured MPs that the government will make sure that talks are held in order to avoid any obstacles on development programmes that would be caused by the ongoing conflict.
Meanwhile, the government said it will conduct an in-depth investigation to establish whether there are non citizens who have been registered in the voters register. Prime Minister Pinda told the parliament in Dodoma yesterday that there is a need to conduct investigation in order to remove names of non citizens in the registry.
He urged the public to disclose the culprits to relevant authorities such as the Immigration department. "Only Tanzania citizens are allowed by the law to vote. It is then illegal for non citizens to register as voters. It is in general not their right to vote," insisted Pinda. Responding to a question by Mkanyageni MP Mohammed Mnyaa, Prime Minister Pinda said the government is still looking into the issue of dual citizenship to establish whether it would be appropriate.
However, he said any decision by the government to allow dual citizenship would be taken in line with the country's and the public best interest. "The system of dual citizenship is not applicable in all countries but few powerful countries, and in order for it to work, it must be applicable in both countries," he said.
The MP wanted to know what steps the government is taking in restricting non citizens who were registered in the voter's register. Mnyaa who said that there are rumours that non citizens were registered as voters, urged for in depth investigation to identify and restrict them from the electoral process.
He claimed that Tanzanians of Mozambican origin who were registered in voter's register in the country have participated in general elections in Mozambique.
Prime Minister Mizengo Pinda said negotiations have been underway between Tanzania and Malawi to reach consensus on the boundary conflict. However, he admitted that there has for a long time been a tag of war in agreeing on where exactly the boundary is located.
Tanzania and Malawi have been in an underground conflict on the boundary on Lake Nyasa. Despite the ongoing tag of war between the two countries, Pinda expressed hopes that the matter can be resolved through international procedures.
"It is true that the issue has taken a long time. However, it is discussable and there are international procedures to solve such matters," noted Pinda. The Prime Minister was responding to question by Ludewa MP Professor Raphael Mwalyosi who wanted to know if the government has failed to resolve the matter.
The MP also wanted to know if the negotiations between the two countries on the boundary location would by any means affects any development programmes. In his response, Pinda assured MPs that the government will make sure that talks are held in order to avoid any obstacles on development programmes that would be caused by the ongoing conflict.
Meanwhile, the government said it will conduct an in-depth investigation to establish whether there are non citizens who have been registered in the voters register. Prime Minister Pinda told the parliament in Dodoma yesterday that there is a need to conduct investigation in order to remove names of non citizens in the registry.
He urged the public to disclose the culprits to relevant authorities such as the Immigration department. "Only Tanzania citizens are allowed by the law to vote. It is then illegal for non citizens to register as voters. It is in general not their right to vote," insisted Pinda. Responding to a question by Mkanyageni MP Mohammed Mnyaa, Prime Minister Pinda said the government is still looking into the issue of dual citizenship to establish whether it would be appropriate.
However, he said any decision by the government to allow dual citizenship would be taken in line with the country's and the public best interest. "The system of dual citizenship is not applicable in all countries but few powerful countries, and in order for it to work, it must be applicable in both countries," he said.
The MP wanted to know what steps the government is taking in restricting non citizens who were registered in the voter's register. Mnyaa who said that there are rumours that non citizens were registered as voters, urged for in depth investigation to identify and restrict them from the electoral process.
He claimed that Tanzanians of Mozambican origin who were registered in voter's register in the country have participated in general elections in Mozambique.
African chiefs to review customs to fight AIDS
All chiefs from Chewa tribe in Malawi, Zambia and Mozambique are expected to gather at a meeting aimed at reviewing their customs which dispose people to high infections of HIV and AIDS. Former vice President of Malawi, Dr. Justin Malewezi disclosed.
“The king of chewa, Kalonga Gawaundi has recently give a directive to all chewa chiefs to review all Chewa customs, to see which ones dispose people to high infections and then to see ways and means of either adjusting those customs or even abandon them,” Malewezi said.
Dr. Malewezi who is also Gawaundi’s ambassador in Malawi said all the major tribes have got their practices but the chewa are probably the ones that have many intricate and sometimes difficult customs to understand.
“Most of the customs are involved in the initiation process and this might also be the case in a few other tribes but for the Chewa kingdom indeed through these initiation rights it can bring the girls and boys to the position where they can be infected,” said Malewezi.
He, however say, through changing the new curricular of customs, they shall bring in messages that can protect the young people from infections.
The directive from the King to discuss which customs to be adjusted is expected to get financial support from National AIDS Commission (NAC).
It is believed that Chinamwali dance, in which young women dance half naked especially during the annual ceremony of kulamba is expected to be reviewed as well, according to one chief who pleaded anonymity.
“The king of chewa, Kalonga Gawaundi has recently give a directive to all chewa chiefs to review all Chewa customs, to see which ones dispose people to high infections and then to see ways and means of either adjusting those customs or even abandon them,” Malewezi said.
Dr. Malewezi who is also Gawaundi’s ambassador in Malawi said all the major tribes have got their practices but the chewa are probably the ones that have many intricate and sometimes difficult customs to understand.
“Most of the customs are involved in the initiation process and this might also be the case in a few other tribes but for the Chewa kingdom indeed through these initiation rights it can bring the girls and boys to the position where they can be infected,” said Malewezi.
He, however say, through changing the new curricular of customs, they shall bring in messages that can protect the young people from infections.
The directive from the King to discuss which customs to be adjusted is expected to get financial support from National AIDS Commission (NAC).
It is believed that Chinamwali dance, in which young women dance half naked especially during the annual ceremony of kulamba is expected to be reviewed as well, according to one chief who pleaded anonymity.
MCA spreads wings to Zambia, Malawi
United States supported, Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCA), has announced its plans to expand its operations in Africa as more countries meet democracy requirements.
Africa, which accounts for about 70 percent of the corporation’s total funding of $5.2 billion, has 11 countries where so-called compacts, or programs, are underway.
MCA Chief Executive Officer, Daniel Yohannes said in an interview in the Ghanaian capital, Accra that the aid program intends to spread its blue print across Africa.
He said: “It’s our hope to add Zambia and Malawi in the next 12 to 18 months.”
Cape Verde, the cluster of islands off West Africa, may be given a second project in 2011 after finishing its $110-million, five-year program, Yohannes added. No decision has yet been taken on how much each country will receive, he said.
Countries are selected for their commitment to “good governance” and for their decision to “to stand up to corruption,” he said.
Yohannes’ Ghana visit was to highlight the corporation’s programs in the West African nation, which is three years into a five-year, $547-million compact that focuses on road-building and boosting agricultural production, according to a Bloomberg report.
Country-driven
The Challenge’s programs “are country-driven. We don’t tell them how to invest,” Yohannes said.
In August, the corporation cut short its $110 million program in Madagascar after Andry Rajoelina seized power in March, according to its website. A month later, Senegal signed a five-year, $540-million compact.
Six other African nations are involved in the corporation’s “threshold” programs, which can be precursors to wider funding, Yohannes said. A $23-million threshold program with Niger was suspended in December after President Mamadou Tandja refused to stand down when his term ended.
The U.S. government’s 2011 budget calls for funding of almost $1.3 billion, up from about $1.1 billion approved for 2010, according to the Web site.
Africa’s economy, which is poised to grow 4.3 percent this year from 1.9 percent last year, according to the International Monetary Fund, needs to attract more foreign investors, Yohannes said. African countries have to “liberalize their economic policies,” he said. “I believe they need to be innovative in attracting foreign investment.”
Africa, which accounts for about 70 percent of the corporation’s total funding of $5.2 billion, has 11 countries where so-called compacts, or programs, are underway.
MCA Chief Executive Officer, Daniel Yohannes said in an interview in the Ghanaian capital, Accra that the aid program intends to spread its blue print across Africa.
He said: “It’s our hope to add Zambia and Malawi in the next 12 to 18 months.”
Cape Verde, the cluster of islands off West Africa, may be given a second project in 2011 after finishing its $110-million, five-year program, Yohannes added. No decision has yet been taken on how much each country will receive, he said.
Countries are selected for their commitment to “good governance” and for their decision to “to stand up to corruption,” he said.
Yohannes’ Ghana visit was to highlight the corporation’s programs in the West African nation, which is three years into a five-year, $547-million compact that focuses on road-building and boosting agricultural production, according to a Bloomberg report.
Country-driven
The Challenge’s programs “are country-driven. We don’t tell them how to invest,” Yohannes said.
In August, the corporation cut short its $110 million program in Madagascar after Andry Rajoelina seized power in March, according to its website. A month later, Senegal signed a five-year, $540-million compact.
Six other African nations are involved in the corporation’s “threshold” programs, which can be precursors to wider funding, Yohannes said. A $23-million threshold program with Niger was suspended in December after President Mamadou Tandja refused to stand down when his term ended.
The U.S. government’s 2011 budget calls for funding of almost $1.3 billion, up from about $1.1 billion approved for 2010, according to the Web site.
Africa’s economy, which is poised to grow 4.3 percent this year from 1.9 percent last year, according to the International Monetary Fund, needs to attract more foreign investors, Yohannes said. African countries have to “liberalize their economic policies,” he said. “I believe they need to be innovative in attracting foreign investment.”
Malawi: Hailstorms kill one, damage property
A second wave of hailstorms hit the northern region's capital of Mzuzu killing a child and damaging property worth millions. This comes after a first injured one man and damaged even more property last month.
A tree fell on a stationery vehicle and there was a blackout in the city after the hailstorm hit, killing 8-year-old Marcella Kalowekamo as she returned from school. The girl hails from Karonga, some 300 kilometres from the city where earthquakes killed four people, injured hundreds, displaced over 6,000 and affected over 16,000 people - damaging property including banks, churches, schools and households worth millions.
The girl tried to cross a drift full of water and was swept away in the process. She was pronounced dead on arrival at St. John's Hospital.
From Monday afternoon and most of Tueday there was the blackout as the city's electricity power was damaged afecting confectionery and food businesses that do not have spare power generators. Power company ESCOM said many electricity pylons were affected.
Chiputula and Zolozolo townships were most hit.
In the central region of the country in Phalombe district, another cyclone last Friday injured four people and rendered homeless 4,150 people from 150 households.
Teachers houses were affected, disturbing classes and an assessment report at district level established the 150 families would require relief aid. No one has been assisted yet but the District Assembly office is getting in touch with the Department of Disaster Management Affairs for help.
Malawi has been hit by a series of natural disasters since late November last year. These include earthquakes, cyclones, dry spells, hailstorms and about 14 districts have experienced an armyworm attack.
Thousands have been displaced, fields and crops damaged, threatening the country with a raging food shortage. Government has already started putting aside food reserves for relief aid and floods are feared in the Lower Shire Belt of Nsanje and Chikwawa districts.
A tree fell on a stationery vehicle and there was a blackout in the city after the hailstorm hit, killing 8-year-old Marcella Kalowekamo as she returned from school. The girl hails from Karonga, some 300 kilometres from the city where earthquakes killed four people, injured hundreds, displaced over 6,000 and affected over 16,000 people - damaging property including banks, churches, schools and households worth millions.
The girl tried to cross a drift full of water and was swept away in the process. She was pronounced dead on arrival at St. John's Hospital.
From Monday afternoon and most of Tueday there was the blackout as the city's electricity power was damaged afecting confectionery and food businesses that do not have spare power generators. Power company ESCOM said many electricity pylons were affected.
Chiputula and Zolozolo townships were most hit.
In the central region of the country in Phalombe district, another cyclone last Friday injured four people and rendered homeless 4,150 people from 150 households.
Teachers houses were affected, disturbing classes and an assessment report at district level established the 150 families would require relief aid. No one has been assisted yet but the District Assembly office is getting in touch with the Department of Disaster Management Affairs for help.
Malawi has been hit by a series of natural disasters since late November last year. These include earthquakes, cyclones, dry spells, hailstorms and about 14 districts have experienced an armyworm attack.
Thousands have been displaced, fields and crops damaged, threatening the country with a raging food shortage. Government has already started putting aside food reserves for relief aid and floods are feared in the Lower Shire Belt of Nsanje and Chikwawa districts.
Personal: Today feels so good a day
Why?
Because yesterday, Monday, I found love.
Just hope it will be the love of my life in this, life's. short journey.
Hi M,
For that is the name.
This year's February 14 will surely be light.
With you in my arms.
Sure enough,
I think this is love,
What, yesterday, I have found.
Because yesterday, Monday, I found love.
Just hope it will be the love of my life in this, life's. short journey.
Hi M,
For that is the name.
This year's February 14 will surely be light.
With you in my arms.
Sure enough,
I think this is love,
What, yesterday, I have found.
Freedom of information laws struggle to take hold in Africa
In Uganda, a ruling this week in a landmark case of two journalists seeking to compel their government’s disclosure of multinationals oil deals highlighted the challenges to public transparency across countries such as Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Rwanda, Ghana, Nigeria and others. The ruling came just before media leaders, press freedom advocates, officials, and former U.S. President Jimmy Carter gather in Ghana next week at the African Regional Conference on the Right of Access to Information.
In Uganda, a ruling this week in a landmark case of two journalists seeking to compel their government’s disclosure of multinationals oil deals highlighted the challenges to public transparency just before media leaders, press freedom advocates, officials, and former U.S. President Jimmy Carter gather in Ghana next week at the African Regional Conference on the Right of Access to Information.
Senior reporter Angelo Izama and Charles Mwanguhya Mpagi of Uganda’s leading independent newspaper Monitor filed the case to appeal the refusal of Uganda’s attorney general to provide them with certified copies of oil exploitation agreements—because of alleged confidentiality clauses in the documents—according to news reports. The journalists argued that the information was of public interest: Ugandans must be able to hold the government and its partners accountable for the exploitation of the oil.
However, Chief Magistrate Deo Ssejjemba said in his ruling that the petitioners had not proved either of the public benefit of disclosing the information to the public, according to news reports. The journalists, along with their partners the Open Society Institute’s East Africa Initiative and Human Rights Network Uganda (HURINET), said they were considering appealing the ruling.
The case was originally filed by lawyer and Member of Parliament Abdu Katuntu under Uganda’s Access to Information Act, a legislation he introduced in 2005. Patrick Tumwine of HURINET told CPJ a local coalition of civil society organizations has been raising awareness about the law. More than 50 percent of Ugandans requesting information about resources allocations, local government affairs, or cases with security agencies get turned down, he said.
Freedom to information is enshrined as a fundamental human right by the United Nations, and upheld by the African Charter on Human and People's Rights. The Declaration of Principles on Freedom of Expression in Africa explicitly states: “Public bodies hold information not for themselves but as custodians of the public good and everyone has a right to access this information, subject only to clearly defined rules established by law.” However, to this date, only five countries in sub-Saharan Africa (Uganda, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Angola) have passed freedom of information legislation, according to Mukelani Dimba, the deputy chief executive officer of the South Africa-based Open Democracy Advice Centre and an expert on the topic.
Progress in the enactment of such legislation remains sluggish, even stalled for a dozen countries that have crafted draft bills. In Mozambique for instance, parliament has yet to table a draft bill presented by a platform of civil society organizations since November 2005, Alfredo Libombo, who heads the Mozambican branch of the Media Institute of Southern Africa told CPJ. The same is true in Kenya, Sierra Leone, and Tanzania, according to Dimba, while legislative chambers in Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sudan, and Zambia have struggled to push through tabled draft bills.
Even the handful of countries with legislation in place have mightily struggled to translate their laws into meaningful reality. For instance, Zimbabwe’s deceptively named Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act has almost invariably been used to censor the press.
Dimba said he was aware of only two cases where the law was used for freedom of information purposes. Ethiopia passed its legislation—within a package of laws effectively criminalizing independent journalism—but has a long way to go towards a culture of transparency and openness. Ethiopian editor Dawit Kebede told CPJ, there had been some improvements with the establishment of a Government Communications Office. However, fear of government reprisals has led many designated communications officers at public agencies to decline to comment without the consent of their superiors, he explained. Even South Africa, recognized as a model of implementation, has struggled to make the progressive ideals of its legislation a reality, according to Dimba. “Only 40 percent of requests for information in SA are processed and attended to in terms of the law,” he said. “The rest are simply ignored.”
All these issues will surely be discussed by the “more than 125 persons from 40 countries” expected during the Feb 7-9 conference, organized by the Carter Center in the Ghanaian capital, Accra, where, just last month, hundreds of journalists and activists organized a protest march in response to parliament’s delay in passing “Right to Information” legislation.
In Uganda, a ruling this week in a landmark case of two journalists seeking to compel their government’s disclosure of multinationals oil deals highlighted the challenges to public transparency just before media leaders, press freedom advocates, officials, and former U.S. President Jimmy Carter gather in Ghana next week at the African Regional Conference on the Right of Access to Information.
Senior reporter Angelo Izama and Charles Mwanguhya Mpagi of Uganda’s leading independent newspaper Monitor filed the case to appeal the refusal of Uganda’s attorney general to provide them with certified copies of oil exploitation agreements—because of alleged confidentiality clauses in the documents—according to news reports. The journalists argued that the information was of public interest: Ugandans must be able to hold the government and its partners accountable for the exploitation of the oil.
However, Chief Magistrate Deo Ssejjemba said in his ruling that the petitioners had not proved either of the public benefit of disclosing the information to the public, according to news reports. The journalists, along with their partners the Open Society Institute’s East Africa Initiative and Human Rights Network Uganda (HURINET), said they were considering appealing the ruling.
The case was originally filed by lawyer and Member of Parliament Abdu Katuntu under Uganda’s Access to Information Act, a legislation he introduced in 2005. Patrick Tumwine of HURINET told CPJ a local coalition of civil society organizations has been raising awareness about the law. More than 50 percent of Ugandans requesting information about resources allocations, local government affairs, or cases with security agencies get turned down, he said.
Freedom to information is enshrined as a fundamental human right by the United Nations, and upheld by the African Charter on Human and People's Rights. The Declaration of Principles on Freedom of Expression in Africa explicitly states: “Public bodies hold information not for themselves but as custodians of the public good and everyone has a right to access this information, subject only to clearly defined rules established by law.” However, to this date, only five countries in sub-Saharan Africa (Uganda, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Angola) have passed freedom of information legislation, according to Mukelani Dimba, the deputy chief executive officer of the South Africa-based Open Democracy Advice Centre and an expert on the topic.
Progress in the enactment of such legislation remains sluggish, even stalled for a dozen countries that have crafted draft bills. In Mozambique for instance, parliament has yet to table a draft bill presented by a platform of civil society organizations since November 2005, Alfredo Libombo, who heads the Mozambican branch of the Media Institute of Southern Africa told CPJ. The same is true in Kenya, Sierra Leone, and Tanzania, according to Dimba, while legislative chambers in Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sudan, and Zambia have struggled to push through tabled draft bills.
Even the handful of countries with legislation in place have mightily struggled to translate their laws into meaningful reality. For instance, Zimbabwe’s deceptively named Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act has almost invariably been used to censor the press.
Dimba said he was aware of only two cases where the law was used for freedom of information purposes. Ethiopia passed its legislation—within a package of laws effectively criminalizing independent journalism—but has a long way to go towards a culture of transparency and openness. Ethiopian editor Dawit Kebede told CPJ, there had been some improvements with the establishment of a Government Communications Office. However, fear of government reprisals has led many designated communications officers at public agencies to decline to comment without the consent of their superiors, he explained. Even South Africa, recognized as a model of implementation, has struggled to make the progressive ideals of its legislation a reality, according to Dimba. “Only 40 percent of requests for information in SA are processed and attended to in terms of the law,” he said. “The rest are simply ignored.”
All these issues will surely be discussed by the “more than 125 persons from 40 countries” expected during the Feb 7-9 conference, organized by the Carter Center in the Ghanaian capital, Accra, where, just last month, hundreds of journalists and activists organized a protest march in response to parliament’s delay in passing “Right to Information” legislation.
Valentine's Day Ideas
Origin of Valentines Day
On February 14th, suitors ply the object of their affections with chocolate, flowers and verses of poetry. Some lucky ladies receive jewelry, while some lucky men are Read More
How to Become Romantic
Becoming romantic takes a bit of effort in the beginning, but making a romantic play list on an iPod, surprising a significant other with a simple gift or preparing for a Read More
What Makes Something Romantic?
What makes something romantic versus platonic is the look in the eyes and the body language used to communicate a question or statement. Learn about the difference between Read More
Romantic Dinner Menu Ideas
A romantic meal with your significant other doesn't require a special occasion. Whether it's an anniversary, birthday, Valentine's Day or just a way to say I love you, a Read More
How to Pamper your Husband on Valentines Day
So, you've taken the plunge and promised to love each other forever. This Valentine's Day express how much you love your husband and create a comforting ambiance that will Read More
Do Girls Want Flowers or Chocolate for Valentines?
When choosing a Valentine's Day gift for a young lady, think about her style and substance. Do chocolates or flowers make sense as a gift? Sometimes stereotypical gifts can Read More
How to Make Your Girlfriend Feel Loved
Making a girlfriend feel loved is all about sincerity and caring enough to do things that she wants to do. Learn how to make your girlfriend feel loved by taking her to a Read More
Valentines Day Gift Ideas
Valentine's Day is the biggest sales holiday for florists, but not everyone wants to give or receive the traditional bouquet of long-stem red roses. In addition, quality Read More
Valentine's Day Gift Baskets
Valentine's Day is the perfect opportunity to give a unique handmade gift basket. Learn how to put one together in this free video. Read More
Unique Valentine Ideas
Why buy store-bought Valentine's Day cards when you can make your own? Using just some basic supplies, a variety of pretty paper and some creativity, you can make your own Read More
How to Keep Romance Alive
Keeping romance alive is possible through small gestures throughout the day, such as rubbing backs, complimenting each other, touching each other and remaining Read More
How to Celebrate Valentine's Day With a Long-Distance Lover
Long-distance lovers should celebrate Valentine's Day face-to-face, otherwise, the two should spend some hours on the phone getting closer. Make a long-distance Valentine's Read More
Frugal Valentine Gift Ideas for Kids
Children often look forward to Valentine's Day, when they get to share cute cards with their friends, eat candy, and talk about happiness and love. However, Valentine's Day Read More
How to Make Cupid Poop Gag Valentines
In recent surveys, it has been demonstrated that even more people hate Valentine's Day than love it. This phenomenon has been attributed to many different things from the Read More
Anti-Valentine's Day Party: Singles Awareness
Anti-Valentine's Day or Singles Awareness Day parties are becoming more popular and more fun every year.
On February 14th, suitors ply the object of their affections with chocolate, flowers and verses of poetry. Some lucky ladies receive jewelry, while some lucky men are Read More
How to Become Romantic
Becoming romantic takes a bit of effort in the beginning, but making a romantic play list on an iPod, surprising a significant other with a simple gift or preparing for a Read More
What Makes Something Romantic?
What makes something romantic versus platonic is the look in the eyes and the body language used to communicate a question or statement. Learn about the difference between Read More
Romantic Dinner Menu Ideas
A romantic meal with your significant other doesn't require a special occasion. Whether it's an anniversary, birthday, Valentine's Day or just a way to say I love you, a Read More
How to Pamper your Husband on Valentines Day
So, you've taken the plunge and promised to love each other forever. This Valentine's Day express how much you love your husband and create a comforting ambiance that will Read More
Do Girls Want Flowers or Chocolate for Valentines?
When choosing a Valentine's Day gift for a young lady, think about her style and substance. Do chocolates or flowers make sense as a gift? Sometimes stereotypical gifts can Read More
How to Make Your Girlfriend Feel Loved
Making a girlfriend feel loved is all about sincerity and caring enough to do things that she wants to do. Learn how to make your girlfriend feel loved by taking her to a Read More
Valentines Day Gift Ideas
Valentine's Day is the biggest sales holiday for florists, but not everyone wants to give or receive the traditional bouquet of long-stem red roses. In addition, quality Read More
Valentine's Day Gift Baskets
Valentine's Day is the perfect opportunity to give a unique handmade gift basket. Learn how to put one together in this free video. Read More
Unique Valentine Ideas
Why buy store-bought Valentine's Day cards when you can make your own? Using just some basic supplies, a variety of pretty paper and some creativity, you can make your own Read More
How to Keep Romance Alive
Keeping romance alive is possible through small gestures throughout the day, such as rubbing backs, complimenting each other, touching each other and remaining Read More
How to Celebrate Valentine's Day With a Long-Distance Lover
Long-distance lovers should celebrate Valentine's Day face-to-face, otherwise, the two should spend some hours on the phone getting closer. Make a long-distance Valentine's Read More
Frugal Valentine Gift Ideas for Kids
Children often look forward to Valentine's Day, when they get to share cute cards with their friends, eat candy, and talk about happiness and love. However, Valentine's Day Read More
How to Make Cupid Poop Gag Valentines
In recent surveys, it has been demonstrated that even more people hate Valentine's Day than love it. This phenomenon has been attributed to many different things from the Read More
Anti-Valentine's Day Party: Singles Awareness
Anti-Valentine's Day or Singles Awareness Day parties are becoming more popular and more fun every year.
How to Accessorize a Love Letter
Love letters employ a personal manner. Although the words may be personal, sometimes you really need to accessorize a love letter to further personalize it. Make the most of the message by accessorizing a love letter to your loved one.
When you are actually writing a love letter, make sure you don't fill up all the empty space because you want to save some room for accessorizing your love letter. Start in one spot of the empty space that is left and draw little hearts with a regular pen or a smelly pen. Smelly pens are a delightful surprise because the person reading it will definitely not be expecting scent from a letter.
Step 2After you have drawn hearts in the empty spaces, you can seal the letter with a kiss. This is done by applying lipstick to your lips and slightly pressing them down where ever you may feel is appropriate. You can either kiss the envelope's seal area, or you can kiss the end of the love letter, whichever way you feel creates a nice touch to the love letter.
Step 3After you are done kissing the love letter, you can even add a little bit of glitter to it. This will add lots of dazzle and color to the letter.
Step 4Another great way to accessorize a letter is to add cute stickers over the envelope. Be careful not to go overboard because it may overwhelm the message of the love letter. Keep it simple and delightful.
When you are actually writing a love letter, make sure you don't fill up all the empty space because you want to save some room for accessorizing your love letter. Start in one spot of the empty space that is left and draw little hearts with a regular pen or a smelly pen. Smelly pens are a delightful surprise because the person reading it will definitely not be expecting scent from a letter.
Step 2After you have drawn hearts in the empty spaces, you can seal the letter with a kiss. This is done by applying lipstick to your lips and slightly pressing them down where ever you may feel is appropriate. You can either kiss the envelope's seal area, or you can kiss the end of the love letter, whichever way you feel creates a nice touch to the love letter.
Step 3After you are done kissing the love letter, you can even add a little bit of glitter to it. This will add lots of dazzle and color to the letter.
Step 4Another great way to accessorize a letter is to add cute stickers over the envelope. Be careful not to go overboard because it may overwhelm the message of the love letter. Keep it simple and delightful.
How to Write Romantic Love Letters to Her
Girls love to receive romantic love letters. Being able to write down your thoughts and share your love with her on paper will mean so much to the girl or woman you love. It can be difficult to put into words how you feel about her, so here are some tips to get you started, and help you write romantic love letters to the one you love.
Set the romantic mood of your love letters by choosing beautiful stationary. Your love letters should be hand-written. Sending love letters to her via email will not be as romantic as writing them by hand.
Step 2Date your letter with the month, day, and year. If you succeed in writing romantic love letters, they will be treasured for years to come.
Step 3Start you romantic love letters with a few sentences about why you have decided to write a love letter to her. Are thoughts of her keeping you awake at night, or do you feel the need to tell her how much you love her?
Step 4The main part of your letter should be about why you fell in love with her. Romantic love letters describe what you love about her, how you felt the day you met her, how you feel when you are together and apart, how your life has changed since you met her, qualities that make her special, and romantic love letters recall special times you have shared together. Be open, honest, and respectful of her when you write your romantic love letters. You may want to write the first drafts of your love letters to her on scratch paper, so that your final letter is perfect.
Step 5Tuck your romantic love letters into matching envelopes and hand-address them. Consider adding dried rose petals or heart-shaped confetti to your love letters before putting them in the envelopes. Stamp the love letters, and send them in the mail to the girl you love. You can be sure that any love letters you write to her will be thought of as romantic, and she will keep them forever.
Set the romantic mood of your love letters by choosing beautiful stationary. Your love letters should be hand-written. Sending love letters to her via email will not be as romantic as writing them by hand.
Step 2Date your letter with the month, day, and year. If you succeed in writing romantic love letters, they will be treasured for years to come.
Step 3Start you romantic love letters with a few sentences about why you have decided to write a love letter to her. Are thoughts of her keeping you awake at night, or do you feel the need to tell her how much you love her?
Step 4The main part of your letter should be about why you fell in love with her. Romantic love letters describe what you love about her, how you felt the day you met her, how you feel when you are together and apart, how your life has changed since you met her, qualities that make her special, and romantic love letters recall special times you have shared together. Be open, honest, and respectful of her when you write your romantic love letters. You may want to write the first drafts of your love letters to her on scratch paper, so that your final letter is perfect.
Step 5Tuck your romantic love letters into matching envelopes and hand-address them. Consider adding dried rose petals or heart-shaped confetti to your love letters before putting them in the envelopes. Stamp the love letters, and send them in the mail to the girl you love. You can be sure that any love letters you write to her will be thought of as romantic, and she will keep them forever.
How to Write a Love Letter for Valentine's Day
There is no need to spend a wallet full of money for Valentine's Day. The best gifts are heartfelt, which is why a love letter is a perfect item to give your loved one for Valentine's Day. Surprise her this year with your words.
Purchase some fancy stationery. Even if you decide to type your love letter, declarations of love are best read from impressive looking stationery. Choose stately designs or designs based on nature. Avoid designs involving cartoon characters, which may give your partner the impression that you are not serious.
Step 2Get in the mood. You should be alone when you write your letter. Use soft music, dim lights or a picture to inspire your love letter.
Step 3Think about why you care for your loved one. Thinking back to fun times you've had will help you gather together your words. If you need to, make an outline on a separate piece of paper before you start writing so your thoughts are organized.
Step 4Compose. Your letter should include reasons why you love her, how she has changed your life and why you're glad to have met her. Typically, love letters have a serious tone, but a lighthearted tone might be a better fit if the two of you are a fun-loving couple.
Step 5Make it your own. Write your letter in your words. Some people feel that quoting song lyrics is a good way to get your loved one to understand how you feel, but your own words will be even more powerful, even if they are more simple than a musician's are.
Step 6Close your letter with a romantic line or two written just for her. Don't forget to sign the letter with "Love." Make sure to write your signature, even if you plan to type your letter.
Step 7Put your letter in a fancy envelope. You can find basic, yet pretty, ones at a stationery store.
Purchase some fancy stationery. Even if you decide to type your love letter, declarations of love are best read from impressive looking stationery. Choose stately designs or designs based on nature. Avoid designs involving cartoon characters, which may give your partner the impression that you are not serious.
Step 2Get in the mood. You should be alone when you write your letter. Use soft music, dim lights or a picture to inspire your love letter.
Step 3Think about why you care for your loved one. Thinking back to fun times you've had will help you gather together your words. If you need to, make an outline on a separate piece of paper before you start writing so your thoughts are organized.
Step 4Compose. Your letter should include reasons why you love her, how she has changed your life and why you're glad to have met her. Typically, love letters have a serious tone, but a lighthearted tone might be a better fit if the two of you are a fun-loving couple.
Step 5Make it your own. Write your letter in your words. Some people feel that quoting song lyrics is a good way to get your loved one to understand how you feel, but your own words will be even more powerful, even if they are more simple than a musician's are.
Step 6Close your letter with a romantic line or two written just for her. Don't forget to sign the letter with "Love." Make sure to write your signature, even if you plan to type your letter.
Step 7Put your letter in a fancy envelope. You can find basic, yet pretty, ones at a stationery store.
How to Pick the Best Valentine's Gift for Her
Valentine's Day is such a special time for couples. But for most men it can be a time of major stress. Picking out the perfect Valentine's gift for your wife or girlfriend doesn't have to be that hard. Follow these suggestions to make sure you get it right this year and don't end up sleeping on the couch!
An obvious choice is jewelry. It's very hard to screw up jewelry. But a lot of men won't even consider jewelry for their love if they're on a tight budget. That is a major mistake. While expensive jewelry is great, there don't have to be diamonds in that little box to make her happy. There's just something about getting a piece of beautiful jewelry from a man that makes us melt. Maybe it's because it's a symbol of your love that we can wear on our bodies to remind us of you. Or maybe it's from a childhood of watching princess love stories. Whatever the reason, you may not understand it, but it is much deeper for us than how expensive the jewelry is. If you're strapped for cash opt for semi-precious stones set in sterling silver or 10k gold. You don't have to break the bank to get her something beautiful.
Step 2
Flowers can be a boring and predictable Valentine's Day gift, or they can be so heartfelt they bring tears to her eyes. Sure roses are great, but how many times has that been done? If you really want to wow your girlfriend don't buy her roses. Buy her favorite flower in her favorite color. This is much more personal than red roses and shows her how well you know her. If you don't know her favorite flower, don't freak out. Ask one of her close friends or family members. And if they don't know, see if they'd be willing to ask her casually and then tell you what she says.
Step 3
Perfume is a very tricky gift. Let's face it men, most of you don't know a thing about women's fragrances. If you show up on Valentine's Day with a bottle of Liz Taylor's White Diamonds for your 22 year old girlfriend, you're likely to be asked to leave. So to play it safe, always check with her friends before buying a perfume. If you still don't know what she wears but want to get her a scent, err on the side of caution and buy a very popular scent that is age appropriate and preferably with a light fragrance. Ask the lady at the makeup counter for more help if you're having trouble.
Step 4
If you're feeling really daring you could go with an extremely romantic gift that is emotional and meaningful. Do something very personal that requires you to go out of your way to obtain. Get her a book signed by her all time favorite author or poet. Write a love song about her and surprise her by performing it at a local coffee shop on amateur night. Name a star after her (Yes, this is possible. Look it up online and you'll find many companies specializing in star naming.). Personalize a teddy bear just for her from a place like The Build-A-Bear Workshop. Dress the bear like you and have your name printed on his shirt. Use your imagination and do something original! These kinds of gifts are usually the ones women remember the most.
An obvious choice is jewelry. It's very hard to screw up jewelry. But a lot of men won't even consider jewelry for their love if they're on a tight budget. That is a major mistake. While expensive jewelry is great, there don't have to be diamonds in that little box to make her happy. There's just something about getting a piece of beautiful jewelry from a man that makes us melt. Maybe it's because it's a symbol of your love that we can wear on our bodies to remind us of you. Or maybe it's from a childhood of watching princess love stories. Whatever the reason, you may not understand it, but it is much deeper for us than how expensive the jewelry is. If you're strapped for cash opt for semi-precious stones set in sterling silver or 10k gold. You don't have to break the bank to get her something beautiful.
Step 2
Flowers can be a boring and predictable Valentine's Day gift, or they can be so heartfelt they bring tears to her eyes. Sure roses are great, but how many times has that been done? If you really want to wow your girlfriend don't buy her roses. Buy her favorite flower in her favorite color. This is much more personal than red roses and shows her how well you know her. If you don't know her favorite flower, don't freak out. Ask one of her close friends or family members. And if they don't know, see if they'd be willing to ask her casually and then tell you what she says.
Step 3
Perfume is a very tricky gift. Let's face it men, most of you don't know a thing about women's fragrances. If you show up on Valentine's Day with a bottle of Liz Taylor's White Diamonds for your 22 year old girlfriend, you're likely to be asked to leave. So to play it safe, always check with her friends before buying a perfume. If you still don't know what she wears but want to get her a scent, err on the side of caution and buy a very popular scent that is age appropriate and preferably with a light fragrance. Ask the lady at the makeup counter for more help if you're having trouble.
Step 4
If you're feeling really daring you could go with an extremely romantic gift that is emotional and meaningful. Do something very personal that requires you to go out of your way to obtain. Get her a book signed by her all time favorite author or poet. Write a love song about her and surprise her by performing it at a local coffee shop on amateur night. Name a star after her (Yes, this is possible. Look it up online and you'll find many companies specializing in star naming.). Personalize a teddy bear just for her from a place like The Build-A-Bear Workshop. Dress the bear like you and have your name printed on his shirt. Use your imagination and do something original! These kinds of gifts are usually the ones women remember the most.
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