Sorry guys; I am sick.
My back is giving me problems; can't sit on the computer.
Posts tomorrow.
Subscribe To
Posts
All Comments
Monday, February 15, 2010
Friday, February 12, 2010
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Today's question: Will President Bingu wa Mutharika lean on a walking stick during his engagement to Callista Chapola-Chimombo on February 14, 2010?
The likely answer is:
February 14, 2010!
Why? Because it's the only date we will know.
But we know, the 14th being Valentine's Day, that Bingu will on that day be in romantic mood- call it romantic excellency if you want.
Congratulations, Sir.
February 14, 2010!
Why? Because it's the only date we will know.
But we know, the 14th being Valentine's Day, that Bingu will on that day be in romantic mood- call it romantic excellency if you want.
Congratulations, Sir.
Diploma in Journalism Course with Zachimalawi: Mass Media Writing
WHAT IS NEWS
On the surface, defining news might seem easy.
There is no specific definition of news. Different people have defined news differently. One of the oldest definitions of news is “when a dog bites a man it is not news but when a man bites a dog its news.”
Other definitions of news:
• It is a break in the normal flow of events, an action or statement so important or unusual that is worth sharing with others.
• It is material that the public must have because it’s important.
• News is deviation from expected.
• It is anything that will make people talk.
• News is an account of what is happening around us.
Determinants of news
What makes news worth writing about?
Journalists use certain elements to judge whether an event or happening is worth writing about. These elements are called news values/ news determinants. Some of these determinants have been spelt out in the above definitions. For example, unusualness and importance.
There are a numbers of news values but the basic ones include:
Impact, unusualness and prominence.
a) Impact
impact means importance or significance. What is the
result of a news story? If many people are affected,
the story is important. ( e.g. fuel crisis)
b) Unusualness
This means the interruption in the expected. Something that makes you stop, stare and wonder- How did it happen? (e.g. a man bites a dog, giving birth to a stone)
c) Prominence
People in big positions and widely known are
prominent. They are news makers. People are interested in whatever they do, small or big. (e.g. presidents, musicians )
Other determinants
d) Conflict
People battle each other. They have different ideologies, they fight things like hunger and diseases. Other examples of conflicts are wars, political campaigns, demonstrations. These are all conflicts and people are interested in reading them.
e) Proximity
Proximity means how close you are the event, emotionally or geographically. If something happens near us we are more interested in it than something that takes place away from us.
Proximity has another meaning. People feel attached to those with whom they share common interests/ characteristics. For example Africans are interested in the presidency of Obama because he has an African origin.
f) Timeliness
The latest is what makes news. News has a short lifespan. What makes news today has greater impact than what happened two weeks ago. However some situations are always interesting and this leads us to another determinant of news which is currency.
g) Currency
People have continuous interest in matters that affect their daily lives. These include issues concerning health, education, money.
Good reporters are good listeners. They go to places where people, observe and listen-they discover news.
THE REPORTER
CHARACTERISTCS OF A REPORTER
Journalists have certain characteristics that help them to handle assignments thoroughly and accurately. They develop stories out of the ordinary. The following are characteristics of reporters.
Curiosity
Reporters ask questions. They are so curious. They look beneath the hippo’s nose. They have nose for news.
Creativity/ingenuity
Curiosity leads to creativity. When there is no breaking news, a reporter comes up with story ideas after observing, listening and reading.
One way of showing your creativity is spotting trends. E.g why are students interested in journalism?
Deadline
No matter how knowledgeable or creative a reporter is, he/she will be of little use if he does not meet dealines. Meeting deadlines is one of qualities the a journalist should have. While working towards deadlines, a reporter should make sure that everything he/she writes is accurate.
Commitment
Journalism is a profession that needs commitment on the side of the reporter. He/she serves the public.
Integrity
Journalists are faithful to facts no matter what the consequences. He/she should not create stories that have not happened.
Dependability
A reporter should be dependable. He/she should do assignments that are given to him/her.
Discipline
A reporter disciplines himself to write all the time.
Objectivity
Objectivity is important because it allows the reader to have facts without the interference of the reporter’s opinions, feelings and conclusions.
The reporter must be close enough physically and emotionally to his/her subject to understand what is being observed. But at the same time the reporter maintain a certain distance to keep things into perspective.
NOTE.The profession of journalism requires a lot of reading and writing.
.
On the surface, defining news might seem easy.
There is no specific definition of news. Different people have defined news differently. One of the oldest definitions of news is “when a dog bites a man it is not news but when a man bites a dog its news.”
Other definitions of news:
• It is a break in the normal flow of events, an action or statement so important or unusual that is worth sharing with others.
• It is material that the public must have because it’s important.
• News is deviation from expected.
• It is anything that will make people talk.
• News is an account of what is happening around us.
Determinants of news
What makes news worth writing about?
Journalists use certain elements to judge whether an event or happening is worth writing about. These elements are called news values/ news determinants. Some of these determinants have been spelt out in the above definitions. For example, unusualness and importance.
There are a numbers of news values but the basic ones include:
Impact, unusualness and prominence.
a) Impact
impact means importance or significance. What is the
result of a news story? If many people are affected,
the story is important. ( e.g. fuel crisis)
b) Unusualness
This means the interruption in the expected. Something that makes you stop, stare and wonder- How did it happen? (e.g. a man bites a dog, giving birth to a stone)
c) Prominence
People in big positions and widely known are
prominent. They are news makers. People are interested in whatever they do, small or big. (e.g. presidents, musicians )
Other determinants
d) Conflict
People battle each other. They have different ideologies, they fight things like hunger and diseases. Other examples of conflicts are wars, political campaigns, demonstrations. These are all conflicts and people are interested in reading them.
e) Proximity
Proximity means how close you are the event, emotionally or geographically. If something happens near us we are more interested in it than something that takes place away from us.
Proximity has another meaning. People feel attached to those with whom they share common interests/ characteristics. For example Africans are interested in the presidency of Obama because he has an African origin.
f) Timeliness
The latest is what makes news. News has a short lifespan. What makes news today has greater impact than what happened two weeks ago. However some situations are always interesting and this leads us to another determinant of news which is currency.
g) Currency
People have continuous interest in matters that affect their daily lives. These include issues concerning health, education, money.
Good reporters are good listeners. They go to places where people, observe and listen-they discover news.
THE REPORTER
CHARACTERISTCS OF A REPORTER
Journalists have certain characteristics that help them to handle assignments thoroughly and accurately. They develop stories out of the ordinary. The following are characteristics of reporters.
Curiosity
Reporters ask questions. They are so curious. They look beneath the hippo’s nose. They have nose for news.
Creativity/ingenuity
Curiosity leads to creativity. When there is no breaking news, a reporter comes up with story ideas after observing, listening and reading.
One way of showing your creativity is spotting trends. E.g why are students interested in journalism?
Deadline
No matter how knowledgeable or creative a reporter is, he/she will be of little use if he does not meet dealines. Meeting deadlines is one of qualities the a journalist should have. While working towards deadlines, a reporter should make sure that everything he/she writes is accurate.
Commitment
Journalism is a profession that needs commitment on the side of the reporter. He/she serves the public.
Integrity
Journalists are faithful to facts no matter what the consequences. He/she should not create stories that have not happened.
Dependability
A reporter should be dependable. He/she should do assignments that are given to him/her.
Discipline
A reporter disciplines himself to write all the time.
Objectivity
Objectivity is important because it allows the reader to have facts without the interference of the reporter’s opinions, feelings and conclusions.
The reporter must be close enough physically and emotionally to his/her subject to understand what is being observed. But at the same time the reporter maintain a certain distance to keep things into perspective.
NOTE.The profession of journalism requires a lot of reading and writing.
.
The Fresh Air Fund NEEDS host families for the Summer of 2010
In 2009, The Fresh Air Fund's Volunteer Host Family program, called Friendly Town, gave close to 5,000 New York City boys and girls, ages six to 18, free summer experiences in the country and the suburbs. Volunteer host families shared their friendship and homes up to two weeks or more in 13 Northeastern states from Virginia to Maine and Canada.
The Fresh Air Fund relies on donations to provide memorable summers to NYC children.
The Fresh Air Fund needs hosts for the summer of 2010.
More than 65% of all Fresh Air children are reinvited to stay with their host family, year after year.
Thanks to host families who open up their homes for a few weeks each summer, children growing up in New York City’s toughest neighborhoods have experienced the joys of Fresh Air experiences.
Fresh Air Fund Host Families
"It is rewarding to see the smile on our Fresh Air child's face as she enjoys the simple things we take for granted..."
Friendly Town host families are volunteers who live in the suburbs or small town communities. Host families range in size, ethnicity and background, but share the desire to open their hearts and homes to give city children an experience they will never forget. Hosts say the Fresh Air experience is as enriching for their own families, as it is for the inner-city children. There are no financial requirements for hosting a child. Volunteers may request the age-group and gender of the Fresh Air youngster they would like to host. Stories about real Fresh Air host families and their New York City visitors are just a click away!
Click here to learn more about becoming a host or call (800) 367-0003!
Fresh Air Children
"We made s'mores and hot dogs over the fire. I've never cooked outside before!"
Fresh Air children are boys and girls, six to 18 years old, who live in New York City. Children on first-time visits are six to 12 years old and stay for either one or two weeks. Youngsters who are re-invited by the same family may continue with The Fund through age 18, and many enjoy longer summertime visits, year after year. A visit to the home of a warm and loving volunteer host family can make all the difference in the world to an inner-city child. All it takes to create lifelong memories is laughing in the sunshine and making new friends.
The majority of Fresh Air children are from low-income communities. These are often families without the resources to send their children on summer vacations. Most inner-city youngsters grow up in towering apartment buildings without large, open outdoor play spaces. Concrete playgrounds cannot replace the freedom of running barefoot through the grass or riding bikes down country lanes.
Fresh Air children are registered by more than 90 participating social service and community organizations located in disadvantaged neighborhoods in the five boroughs of New York City. These community-based agencies are in close contact with children in need of summer experiences in rural and suburban areas. Each agency is responsible for registering children for the program.
What do Fresh Air children enjoy?
Playing in the backyard
Laughing in the sunshine
Catching fireflies
Riding bicycles
Learning to swim
Running barefoot through the grass
Gazing at the stars on moonlit nights
Building sandcastles
Making new friends
Simple pleasures of life away from the inner-city
You can give a child the experience of a
lifetime with your gift to The Fresh Air Fund!
Every year, The Fresh Air Fund gives thousands of inner-city children the priceless gift of fun – and opens the door to a lifetime of opportunities.
Whether it's a two-week trip to visit a volunteer host family, or a fun-filled and educational stay at one of our camps, our programs make for unforgettable memories – and open a world of new friendships and fresh possibilities.
We are a not-for-profit agency and depend on tax-deductible donations from people like you to keep our vital programs flourishing.
Donate online now
On March 21st, the Fresh Air Fund-Racers will take to the streets at the NYC Half-Marathon! Thank you to the Fresh Air Fund-Racers and their supporters for participating in this world class event. You are making a huge difference in the lives of thousands of Fresh Air children!
We have limited availability for this amazing race. If you would like to run, please register here right away.
Link to Fresh Air Fund: http://freshairfundhosts.com/
The Fresh Air Fund relies on donations to provide memorable summers to NYC children.
The Fresh Air Fund needs hosts for the summer of 2010.
More than 65% of all Fresh Air children are reinvited to stay with their host family, year after year.
Thanks to host families who open up their homes for a few weeks each summer, children growing up in New York City’s toughest neighborhoods have experienced the joys of Fresh Air experiences.
Fresh Air Fund Host Families
"It is rewarding to see the smile on our Fresh Air child's face as she enjoys the simple things we take for granted..."
Friendly Town host families are volunteers who live in the suburbs or small town communities. Host families range in size, ethnicity and background, but share the desire to open their hearts and homes to give city children an experience they will never forget. Hosts say the Fresh Air experience is as enriching for their own families, as it is for the inner-city children. There are no financial requirements for hosting a child. Volunteers may request the age-group and gender of the Fresh Air youngster they would like to host. Stories about real Fresh Air host families and their New York City visitors are just a click away!
Click here to learn more about becoming a host or call (800) 367-0003!
Fresh Air Children
"We made s'mores and hot dogs over the fire. I've never cooked outside before!"
Fresh Air children are boys and girls, six to 18 years old, who live in New York City. Children on first-time visits are six to 12 years old and stay for either one or two weeks. Youngsters who are re-invited by the same family may continue with The Fund through age 18, and many enjoy longer summertime visits, year after year. A visit to the home of a warm and loving volunteer host family can make all the difference in the world to an inner-city child. All it takes to create lifelong memories is laughing in the sunshine and making new friends.
The majority of Fresh Air children are from low-income communities. These are often families without the resources to send their children on summer vacations. Most inner-city youngsters grow up in towering apartment buildings without large, open outdoor play spaces. Concrete playgrounds cannot replace the freedom of running barefoot through the grass or riding bikes down country lanes.
Fresh Air children are registered by more than 90 participating social service and community organizations located in disadvantaged neighborhoods in the five boroughs of New York City. These community-based agencies are in close contact with children in need of summer experiences in rural and suburban areas. Each agency is responsible for registering children for the program.
What do Fresh Air children enjoy?
Playing in the backyard
Laughing in the sunshine
Catching fireflies
Riding bicycles
Learning to swim
Running barefoot through the grass
Gazing at the stars on moonlit nights
Building sandcastles
Making new friends
Simple pleasures of life away from the inner-city
You can give a child the experience of a
lifetime with your gift to The Fresh Air Fund!
Every year, The Fresh Air Fund gives thousands of inner-city children the priceless gift of fun – and opens the door to a lifetime of opportunities.
Whether it's a two-week trip to visit a volunteer host family, or a fun-filled and educational stay at one of our camps, our programs make for unforgettable memories – and open a world of new friendships and fresh possibilities.
We are a not-for-profit agency and depend on tax-deductible donations from people like you to keep our vital programs flourishing.
Donate online now
On March 21st, the Fresh Air Fund-Racers will take to the streets at the NYC Half-Marathon! Thank you to the Fresh Air Fund-Racers and their supporters for participating in this world class event. You are making a huge difference in the lives of thousands of Fresh Air children!
We have limited availability for this amazing race. If you would like to run, please register here right away.
Link to Fresh Air Fund: http://freshairfundhosts.com/
From the Fresh Air Fund: What has Sara to say?
Hi Richard
I know it's still winter time but the countdown to Summer 2010 has begun and The Fresh Air Fund is again in need of host families. If you could help get the word out on Zachimalawi it would really go a long way in helping to place these children into a loving host family home for a fresh air experience they will never forget.
I've put together a new social media release to make it simple to repost, so please feel free to use any of the images, graphics, banners, or copy:
http://freshairfundhosts.com
Please let me know if you are able to post or tweet and if you have any questions. Your efforts can help a child have an experience that will change their life!
Thank you so much,
Sara
I know it's still winter time but the countdown to Summer 2010 has begun and The Fresh Air Fund is again in need of host families. If you could help get the word out on Zachimalawi it would really go a long way in helping to place these children into a loving host family home for a fresh air experience they will never forget.
I've put together a new social media release to make it simple to repost, so please feel free to use any of the images, graphics, banners, or copy:
http://freshairfundhosts.com
Please let me know if you are able to post or tweet and if you have any questions. Your efforts can help a child have an experience that will change their life!
Thank you so much,
Sara
Something about Centre for the Development of People (Cedep)
Welcome to CEDEP: The Centre For The Development of People.
CEDEP is a registered human rights organisation dedicated to addressing the needs, improving the lives, and providing support for some of Malawi's most neglected minority groups through civic education, training, capacity building, networking and research.
We believe that improving he welfare of minority groups, including prisoners, sex workers, and those in same-sex relationships, is crucial to the health and well-being of all peoples.
To learn more, please visit our Programmes page.
Zikomo.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Latest News: CEDEP defends gay couple's marriage.
Tiwomge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza were arrested after publicly declaring their love for one another in an engagement ceremony in Blantyre on Saturday 26 December. They have been charged with gross indecency according to Section 156 of Malawi's penal code.
CEDEP director Gift Trapense defended them in The Daily TImes saying, " Unless the suspects were caught in the act, the law cannot take charge against them in the absence of evidence that they are involved in a sexual act. what these two people have done is expression of their legal rights. It is another way of testing our law which is silent on such matters. Here are two individuals who are expressing their sexual orientation as human beings. Therefore I do not see any reason why the government should intrude in such an issue."
To voice your support for Chimbalanga and Monjeza, please visit our Contact page.
.
Attention!
CEDEP administrator Dunker Kamba has been arrested on charges that CEDEP's HIV education materials are pornographic. Such an accusation can only be retaliation for CEDEP's support of Chimbalanga and Molanje. Mr. Kamba is expected to appear in court on 6 January, and your support is very much appreciated. To contribute to the defense fund for these three men, please visit our Donate page.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CEDEP develops healthier people living better lives.
Inclusion of men who have sex with men (MSM) in the national HIV prevention action frame work 2009-2013.
Host of a national conference for 70 participants attended where a task force was formed to push for the health and human rights of Malawi's most at-risk populations.
Evaluation of the HIV prevalence, determinants of HIV infection, and Human Rights Contexts of men who have sex with men (MSM) in Malawi.
Dissemination of the MSM HIV sero-prevalence research results at the Malawi National annual HIV/AIDS Research and Best Practices Dissemination Conference and International Aids Conference in Mexico in 2008.
Publication of the MSM HIV sero-prevalence study in a reputable science journal called Plos One which can be accessed here.
350 MSM were better informed of the modes of HIV/AIDS and STIs transmission and means of prevention.
20 Peer Educators trained on HIV/AIDS and their roles as peer educators.
CEDEP is a registered human rights organisation dedicated to addressing the needs, improving the lives, and providing support for some of Malawi's most neglected minority groups through civic education, training, capacity building, networking and research.
We believe that improving he welfare of minority groups, including prisoners, sex workers, and those in same-sex relationships, is crucial to the health and well-being of all peoples.
To learn more, please visit our Programmes page.
Zikomo.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Latest News: CEDEP defends gay couple's marriage.
Tiwomge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza were arrested after publicly declaring their love for one another in an engagement ceremony in Blantyre on Saturday 26 December. They have been charged with gross indecency according to Section 156 of Malawi's penal code.
CEDEP director Gift Trapense defended them in The Daily TImes saying, " Unless the suspects were caught in the act, the law cannot take charge against them in the absence of evidence that they are involved in a sexual act. what these two people have done is expression of their legal rights. It is another way of testing our law which is silent on such matters. Here are two individuals who are expressing their sexual orientation as human beings. Therefore I do not see any reason why the government should intrude in such an issue."
To voice your support for Chimbalanga and Monjeza, please visit our Contact page.
.
Attention!
CEDEP administrator Dunker Kamba has been arrested on charges that CEDEP's HIV education materials are pornographic. Such an accusation can only be retaliation for CEDEP's support of Chimbalanga and Molanje. Mr. Kamba is expected to appear in court on 6 January, and your support is very much appreciated. To contribute to the defense fund for these three men, please visit our Donate page.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CEDEP develops healthier people living better lives.
Inclusion of men who have sex with men (MSM) in the national HIV prevention action frame work 2009-2013.
Host of a national conference for 70 participants attended where a task force was formed to push for the health and human rights of Malawi's most at-risk populations.
Evaluation of the HIV prevalence, determinants of HIV infection, and Human Rights Contexts of men who have sex with men (MSM) in Malawi.
Dissemination of the MSM HIV sero-prevalence research results at the Malawi National annual HIV/AIDS Research and Best Practices Dissemination Conference and International Aids Conference in Mexico in 2008.
Publication of the MSM HIV sero-prevalence study in a reputable science journal called Plos One which can be accessed here.
350 MSM were better informed of the modes of HIV/AIDS and STIs transmission and means of prevention.
20 Peer Educators trained on HIV/AIDS and their roles as peer educators.
Interview with Economic Development and Research Department Director, Léonce Ndikumana
“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.
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.
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.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)