Category Archives: World News

State of the World’s Mothers 2013

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From: Yona Maro

Every year, 287,000 women die during pregnancy or childbirth, and 6.9 million children die before reaching their fifth birthday. Almost all these deaths occur in developing countries where mothers, children and newborns lack access to basic health care. While child mortality rates have declined in recent decades, 19,000 mothers still mourn the loss of a child each and every day – an unthinkable number of heartbreaks. This is especially tragic since most of these deaths could be prevented at a modest cost.

This year’s report looks at the critical first day of life, when mothers and their newborns face the greatest threats to survival, and when there is tremendous opportunity to save lives. It highlights approaches that are working to bring essential health care to the hard-to-reach places where most deaths occur. And it shows how millions more lives each year can be saved if we invest in proven solutions and help mothers do what’s best for their children. If we don’t save lives on this critical first day, we will never truly end preventable child deaths.

This report contains our annual ranking of the best and worst places in the world for mothers – but no matter if they’re in the United States or Malawi or India, all mothers are fundamentally the same. Every night, millions of mothers around the world lean over their sleeping newborns and pray that they will be safe, happy and healthy. It’s what we all want for our children. And it’s certainly not too much to ask.

When a child is placed into his mother’s arms for the first time, that woman’s life is changed forever. The moment is brief and precious. We must seize the opportunity to invest in this most basic, most enduring partnership – between a mother and her child – if we are to change forever the course of history and reduce newborn deaths.
Link:

http://www.savethechildren.org/atf/cf/%7B9def2ebe-10ae-432c-9bd0-df91d2eba74a%7D/SOWM-FULL-REPORT_2013.PDF

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Remarks by President Obama in an Exchange of Dinner Toasts — Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

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From: Judy Miriga

Very nice and Tanzania is Blessed………they must keep the forward strategy focusing on progressive development ….

Cheers……!!!

Judy Miriga
Diaspora Spokesperson
Executive Director
Confederation Council Foundation for Africa Inc.,
USA
http://socioeconomicforum50.blogspot.com

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Tanzania gets its third Air Force One visit

Published on Jul 1, 2013
For more on this and other stories please visit http://www.enca.com/

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, July 1 – Tanzania is for the third time hosting an American president. eNCA correspondent Soni Methu was there when Air Force One touched down at the Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam for Barack Obama’s visit.

U.S. President Barack Obama, arrived in Tanzania this afternoon.

Published on Jul 1, 2013
Some say U.S. President Barack Obama on a scramble for Africa, as Washington is losing out to Beijing.
Others say he wants to make up for neglecting the continent in the earlier years of his Presidency.

U S PRESIDENT BARRACK OBAMA IN TANZANIA

Published on Jul 1, 2013
US president Barrack Obama is in Tanzania for the final leg of his week long tour of Africa// at the same time as his predecessor. Sam Gakunyi.

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
July 01, 2013
Remarks by President Obama in an Exchange of Dinner Toasts — Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

State House
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

8:58 PM EAT

PRESIDENT OBAMA: President Kikwete, Madam First Lady, distinguished guests — on behalf of myself and Michelle, our delegation, our daughters — we want to thank you for the incredible warmth and hospitality with which you’ve greeted us throughout the day. We could not be more grateful.

I am not the first American leader to visit this beautiful country. Other Presidents and prominent citizens have come before me. We just came from South Africa, where Robert Kennedy famously spoke of how every time we stand up for an ideal, we send out a “tiny ripple of hope.” Less known is that after that trip to South Africa, Robert Kennedy also came here to Tanzania. It was a little different back then. Kennedy and his wife, Ethel, rode in the back of an open truck. The Secret Service has me and Michelle inside a fortified limousine. We call it “The Beast.” (Laughter.) As Kennedy’s truck made its way through the crowds, he picked up two boys and let them ride alongside them. The Secret Service doesn’t let me do these things. (Laughter.) When Kennedy came, it was a public holiday here. I apologize to Tanzanians that you all had to work today. (Laughter.)

But while these times have changed, the good feelings stay the same. We’ve been deeply touched by the welcome and the warm wishes from the Tanzanian people along the streets as we came in here with you tonight. Dar es Salaam means “harbor of peace,” and we thank you for sharing that sense of peace and brotherhood for which this country and its people have long been known.

Mr. President, you’ve shown wisdom and strength in seeking reforms so that more Tanzanians can enjoy progress, more opportunity. And like me, you’re strengthened by a woman who is a leader in her own right. (Applause.) I am told that Mama Kikwete is fond of a traditional Tanzanian saying — “My neighbor’s child is my child.” And that sentiment I think also captures the feeling, the partnership between — our two countries must have. We live thousands of miles apart, but as fellow human beings, we share a sense of obligation to each other, especially to the youngest among us.

So you might say an American child is my child. We might say a Tanzanian child is my child. In this way, both of our nations will be looking after all of our children and we’ll be living out the vision of President Nyerere. The core values that he proclaimed for Tanzania also describe what both our countries seek — wisdom, unity, and peace — Hekima, Umoja, na Amani. (Applause.)

So what I’d like to do is to propose a toast — if I can get my water here — to our gracious Tanzanian hosts, to our Tanzanian friends and to wisdom, unity and peace that we all seek in the world. Cheers.

END
9:01 P.M. EAT

USA: Gasland 2

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Oscar-nominated filmmaker Josh Fox is teaming up with MoveOn members to screen his new documentary Gasland Part II—a jaw-dropping exposé of the fracking industry. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn the truth about fracking and join the national movement that’s fighting back. You’ll need HBO—or a friend with HBO—to host. Can you host a Gasland Part II Movie Party in Dayton on Sunday, July 14?
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=291160&id=70552-21095459-WVWlpix&t=1

Dear MoveOn member,

Imagine being able to light your city tap water on fire.

That’s a reality right now in communities across the country as the fossil fuel industry pushes our country into an all-out—and dangerous—”fracking” boom.1

Want to learn more about fracking and how to stop it? We’ve teamed up with Oscar-nominated filmmaker Josh Fox for a fun, informative, and sobering nationwide event to watch his new HBO documentary Gasland Part II on Sunday, July 14, and you can have a front row seat—in your own living room!

Fracking for gas and oil has been linked to water so contaminated that it catches fire, illness in residential neighborhoods, unusual earthquakes, dead livestock, and tanking property values. And the methane released by fracking is a far more potent global warming gas than carbon dioxide.2

The hopeful news is that MoveOn members are fighting back—and Gasland Part II gives us a powerful new weapon to grow our grassroots movement. That’s why hundreds of MoveOn members are signing up to host a Gasland Part II Movie Party on Sunday, July 14.

Hosting a movie screening is easy and very rewarding. We’ll provide a host guide with special materials, we’ll help you recruit MoveOn members in your area to attend, and we’ll invite you to join director Josh Fox and thousands of other MoveOn members for a special briefing after we view the film together. Because the film is only available right now on HBO, you’ll need an HBO subscription—or a friend with HBO—to host a movie night. If you don’t have HBO, we may be able to match you up with a MoveOn member near you who does.

Will you sign up to host a Gasland Part II Movie Party in Dayton on Sunday, July 14?
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=291160&id=70552-21095459-WVWlpix&t=2

No, I don’t have HBO, and I’m not sure I have a friend who does.
http://www.moveon.org/gasland2/?id=70552-21095459-WVWlpix&t=3

Like Josh’s first film, which made “fracking” a household word, Gasland Part II is catalyzing a movement—and if enough of our friends, families, and neighbors work together, we can build the large-scale movement we need to stop fracking. Since the original Gasland debuted in 2010, dozens of cities, towns, and counties—from Pittsburgh, PA to Mora County, NM—have passed local bans on fracking, and MoveOn members in 30 states have launched campaigns to stop this dangerous new form of fossil fuel extraction.3

Gasland Part II is only available on HBO right now, so if you’d like to host but don’t have a subscription, ask your friends or family members who might have HBO to team up with you. If you do have HBO, sign up to help MoveOn members near you have the opportunity to watch this amazing film

I had the opportunity to preview the film, and it gave me the chills. I grew up—and my mom still lives—just a few miles from the largest urban oil field in the country, in Los Angeles, where fracking is happening right now. Neighbors suspect that high rates of cancer are linked to toxic chemicals used in fracking—and they’re organizing to stop the fracking from continuing.4

Earlier this week, in his first speech on climate change, President Obama stuck his neck out to reduce carbon pollution from coal-fired power plants, and MoveOn members have applauded him for that. But he also doubled down on propping up the oil and gas industries, even though scientists have shown that extracting and burning gas and oil could be far worse for the climate than coal.5

Banning fracking is the next frontier in the movement to protect our communities and our kids from climate change—and MoveOn members, with Josh Fox, are leading the way.

When people find out the truth about fracking, they rise up to stop it. The MoveOn community of 8 million members has the power to spread the truth, and organize to win.

Visit here to host a Gasland Part II Movie Party on Sunday, July 14.
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=291160&id=70552-21095459-WVWlpix&t=6

Thanks for all you do,

–Victoria, Manny, Bobby, Rosy, and the rest of the team

P.S. Check out the trailer for Gasland Part II here: http://vimeo.com/69061416

Sources:

1. “Fracking’s coming boom,” Salon, April 24, 2013
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=291186&id=70552-21095459-WVWlpix&t=7
2. “Drillers Silence Fracking Claims With Sealed Settlements,” Bloomberg Businessweek, June 6, 2013
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=290800&id=70552-21095459-WVWlpix&t=9

“Campaign to Ban Fracking Heats Up,” Culver City Patch, May 17, 2012
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=290822&id=&t=10&id=70552-21095459-WVWlpix&t=10

“More Evidence Shows Drilling Causes Earthquakes,” Bloomberg Businessweek, April 1, 2013
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=290821&id=70552-21095459-WVWlpix&t=11

“The Fracturing of Pennsylvania,” The New York Times, November 17, 2011http://www.moveon.org/r?r=291187&id=70552-21095459-WVWlpix&t=12

“Methane Losses Stir Debate on Natural Gas,” The New York Times, April 12, 2011
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=291188&id=70552-21095459-WVWlpix&t=13

3. “NY Local Fracking Bans Upheld By Appeals Court,” Huffington Post, May 2, 2013
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=291189&id=70552-21095459-WVWlpix&t=14

4. Ibid., Culver City Patch

5. Ibid., The New York Times

MoveOn Civic Action is entirely funded by our 8 million members—no corporate contributions, no big checks from CEOs. And our tiny staff ensures that small contributions go a long way.

Chip in.
https://civic.moveon.org/donatec4/creditcard.html?cpn_id=457&id=70552-21095459-WVWlpix

Former president Bush Comment while in Zambia June 1st 2013

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From: Judy Miriga

Good People,

Leadership is a hard job, I agree………but, it pays well doing the
right thing. At the end of the day, there is a balance in the positive
side providing for responsibility in sharing and caring and making
life worthy of the purpose for creation; and when Nature is cared
for and preserved to remain in harmony with itself; because, God’s
creation was made perfect…….we are united at peace with each
other and always, ours remain to be of Responsibility for goodness
sake and in the transition; evil, hate, Killings, Pain and Sufferings
find no room to thrive………it is rendered irrelevant good people!!!
How wonderful is wonderful….. !!!

Have your say…………Cheers !!!!

Judy Miriga
Diaspora Spokesperson
Executive Director
Confederation Council Foundation for Africa Inc.,
USA
http://socioeconomicforum50.blogspot.com

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George W. Bush on Mandela, Snowden and legacy
Former president speaks with CNN while in Zambia with wife Laura
Author: By Jethro Mullen CNN
Published On: Jul 01 2013 06:23:25 AM EDT Updated On: Jul 01 2013 08:06:50 AM EDT

George W Bush in Zambia

CNN
(CNN) –

Former President George W. Bush and his wife, Laura, are in Zambia, where they are renovating a health clinic.

In an exclusive interview, he tells CNN why he respects Nelson Mandela, what he thinks about Edward Snowden and President Barack Obama, and how he’s not going to be around when his legacy is finally decided.
• On Snowden: “I think he damaged the security of the country.”

• On Mandela: “His legacy will last for a long time.”

• On Obama: “It’s a hard job. He’s got plenty on his agenda.”

Bush talked about Snowden, the computer contractor who leaked details about secret U.S. surveillance programs, to CNN’s Robyn Curnow in Zambia on Sunday.

He said he believes the Obama administration “will deal” with the fallout from the controversy unleashed by Snowden, who is now thought to be holed up in the transit area of a Moscow airport after fleeing there from Hong Kong.

Snowden’s disclosures about the programs carried out by the National Security Agency have shaken the U.S. intelligence community and put the Obama administration on the defensive over accusations of government overreach into citizens’ privacy.

But Bush refrained from criticizing the current president.

“I don’t think it does any good,” he said. “It’s a hard job. He’s got plenty on his agenda. It’s difficult. A former president doesn’t need to make it any harder. Other presidents have taken different decisions; that’s mine.”

The White House has defended the surveillance programs as necessary tools to defuse terrorist threats. Obama has said he welcomes a debate over how to strike a balance between security and privacy.

“I think there needs to be a balance, and as the president explained, there is a proper balance,” Bush said.

Asked about an NSA program that tracks people’s Internet activity, Bush said, “I put that program in place to protect the country. One of the certainties was that civil liberties were guaranteed.”

Snowden has said he leaked information to journalists about the surveillance programs in the hope of ending what he called an excessively intrusive system.

The Bushes were at a renovated health clinic in Livingstone, Zambia, that opens Monday as a cervical cancer screening and treatment center. They hope this will save the lives of thousands of women.

In his comments, George Bush touched on the subject of Mandela, who is on life support in a South African hospital.

“Sometimes, there are leaders who come and go. His legacy will last for a long time,” he said of the ailing anti-apartheid icon.

Reminded by Curnow that Mandela had criticized him publicly about the war in Iraq, Bush said he didn’t bear a grudge.

“He wasn’t the only guy,” he said. “It’s OK. I made decisions that were the right decisions. History will ultimately judge. I never held someone’s opinion against him; I didn’t look at him differently because he didn’t agree with me on an issue.”

Bush also initially said he wasn’t bothered about his ratings in opinion polls, even if some of them now put him at a similar level to Obama.

“The only time I really cared was on Election Day,” he said.

Then, drawing laughter from his wife, he checked himself and said, “You know, I guess it’s nice. I mean, let me rephrase that: Thank you for bringing it up.”

In any case, the former president said he doesn’t expect a fair assessment of his legacy in his lifetime.

“I won’t be around, because it will take a while for the objective historians to show up,” he said. “So I’m pretty comfortable with it, I did what I did; I know the spirit in which I did it.”

Copyright 2013 by CNN NewSource. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

OBAMA IN SOUTH AFRICA

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From: Yona Maro

Remarks by President Obama at Young African Leader…http://obamaafricatrip2013.blogspot.com/2013/06/remarks-by-president-obama-at-young.html

President Obama at Young African Leaders Initiativ…http://obamaafricatrip2013.blogspot.com/2013/06/president-obama-at-young-african.html

MesObama Says U.S. Not Threatened By Chinese Interest…http://obamaafricatrip2013.blogspot.com/2013/06/obama-says-us-not-threatened-by-chinese.html
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Rankings and Accountability in Higher Education: Uses and Misuses

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From: Yona Maro

A new UNESCO publication, Rankings and Accountability in Higher Education: Uses and Misuses, debates the pros and cons of classifying universities. It brings together the people behind university rankings and their critics to debate the uses and misuses of existing rankings. Featuring voices from five continents, the publication aims to help the ultimate readers of rankings and league tables – be they students, parents, governments or institutional leaders – become better, and more discerning users of these tools. It provides a comprehensive overview of current thinking on the subject, and sets out alternative approaches and complementary tools for a new era of transparent and informed use of higher education ranking tables.

Of the world’s 17,000+ universities, only 1% are the focus of the “world university rankings” published by three of the most prominent “ranking houses”. Although varied in many respects, the top 200 ranked schools tend to be older (200+ years) establishments, focusing mostly on scientific research, with around 25,000 students and 2,500 faculty; and annual budgets exceeding 2 billion USD. Contributing authors from well-known ranking organizations open the debate in Rankings and Accountability, offering a detailed look at the methodological approaches they use, their strengths and shortcomings, and their evolution over time. For Nian Cai Liu of Shanghai Jiao Tong University, who helped launch the first ever global university rankings in 2003, rankings are not and should not be used as the sole source of information that guides decisions pertaining to the quality of universities. Yet for Phil Baty of the Times Higher Education and Ben Sowter of QS University Rankings, there is no doubt that rankings are “set to stay”, and can help improve transparency and accountability in higher education, in a global market of higher education.
Link:
http://www.unesco.org/new/en/education/resources/in-focus-articles/rankings/
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USA & Africa: President Obama Announces the Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders

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From: Judy Miriga

FYI

Judy Miriga
Diaspora Spokesperson
Executive Director
Confederation Council Foundation for Africa Inc.,
USA
http://socioeconomicforum50.blogspot.com

– – – – – – – – – – –

THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 29, 2013

President Obama Announces the Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders

Today in front of an audience of more than 600 dynamic young leaders from South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, and Uganda, President Obama announced the Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders, the new flagship program of the President’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI). Beginning in 2014, the program will bring more than 500 young African leaders to the United States each year for leadership training and mentoring. It will also create unique opportunities in Africa for Fellows to use their new skills to propel economic growth and prosperity, and strengthen democratic institutions.

The Washington Fellowship will:

· Invest in a new generation of young African leaders who are shaping the continent’s future.

· Respond to the strong demand by young African leaders for practical skills that can help them take their work to the next level in the fields of public service and business.

· Deepen partnerships and connections between the United States and Africa.

· Build a prestigious network of young African leaders who are at the forefront of change and innovation in their respective sectors.

Washington Fellows will primarily be between 25 and 35 years old, have a proven track record of leadership in a public, private, or civic organization, and demonstrate a strong commitment to contributing their skills and talents to building and serving their communities.

Welcoming Promising Leaders to the United States

Beginning in 2014, each year the United States will bring 500 of Africa’s most promising young leaders to U.S. universities for training in public management and administration; business and entrepreneurship; and civic leadership. Training in each of these sectors will focus on the skills young African leaders need to run better ministries, start and grow businesses, and serve their communities. Within the next five years, the initiative aims to grow to 1000 young leaders each year.

Washington Fellows will spend six weeks at top American universities and colleges that will provide tailored training in the sectors above, leveraging top faculty, cutting-edge curricula, and local opportunities to impart practical professional and leadership training. Formal university training will be augmented by workshops, mentoring, and networking opportunities with leaders in each field, as well as internships across the United States.

For example, U.S. agencies such as the Overseas Private Investment Corporation and the Export-Import Bank will host Washington Fellows as interns to expose them to the U.S. workplace and practices, and build their technical skills. Washington Fellows will also benefit from partnerships with American companies like Boeing, which will provide leadership training at the Boeing Leadership Center in St. Louis to extend Fellows’ campus-based training. The Fellows will also have the chance to interact with President Obama during an annual Summit in Washington, D.C., along with other senior U.S. government, business, and civic leaders.

Investing in Opportunities on the Continent

The U.S.-based training Washington Fellows will receive is only the beginning of the long term investment the United States will make in these young leaders. To ensure that participants can put their newly-acquired skills and experiences to use, the U.S. Government is working with businesses, governments, and institutions to create meaningful opportunities to allow them to put their skills to practice in Africa.

The Washington Fellowship will offer participants valuable access to internships and job opportunities in the private and public sectors. We are establishing partnerships with companies, government ministries, research institutions, regional organizations, and non-profit and community-based organizations across the region to provide meaningful career opportunities for these young leaders. For example, Microsoft will connect Washington Fellows with internships in their offices across Africa, including in Cairo, Tunis, Casablanca, Abidjan, Dakar, Accra, Lagos, Abuja, Luanda, Johannesburg, and Nairobi. Ethiopian Airlines will offer participants the opportunity to train at their business management and corporate governance platforms at its hubs around the world.

Washington Fellows will have access to dedicated funding opportunities to support their ideas, businesses, and organizations. More than $5 million in small grants will be awarded in the first three years by the U.S. African Development Foundation to Washington Fellows seeking to start their own businesses or social enterprises. The U.S. Department of State will invest an additional $5 million over the course of the program to help alumni establish or grow non-governmental organizations, undertake a project to improve their community, or work collaboratively to build the network of young African leaders, including reaching into underserved areas. USAID will establish regional hubs and coordinators to connect Washington Fellows to these opportunities and leverage over $200 million in ongoing youth programs and initiatives on the continent.

Sustaining a Strong Alumni Network

Washington Fellows will be a part of a vibrant network that will continue to connect them to new opportunities in Africa and to each other. Regular local and regional events and networking opportunities will sustain strong ties over the years as program participants assume leadership positions in their respective sectors. Participants will be required to mentor other promising young leaders, enhancing the impact and sustainability of the initiative, and growing the network to encompass other leaders, especially in disadvantaged communities.

THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 29, 2013

FACT SHEET: The President’s Young African Leaders Initiative

President Obama launched the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) in 2010 as a signature initiative that supports young African leaders as they work to spur growth and prosperity, strengthen democratic governance, and enhance peace and security across the continent.

Investing in the next generation of African leaders is critical to ensuring the success of Africa’s democracies and its economies. One in three Africans is between the ages of 10 and 24, and approximately 60 percent of Africa’s total population is below the age of 35. Through YALI, the United States is investing in the next generation of African leaders, and has committed significant resources to enhance leadership skills, bolster entrepreneurship, and connect young African leaders with one another, with the United States, and with the American people.

Engaging Young African Leaders Who Will Shape the Continent’s Future

President Obama has been personally engaged in YALI from the beginning. His 2010 Forum with Young African Leaders brought young African leaders to the White House for an interactive exchange and dialogue on leadership, youth empowerment, and good governance.

Annual capstone events have helped to build new networks of leaders and underscore high-level U.S. support for their futures – including a 2011 Young African Women Leaders Forum in South Africa with First Lady Michelle Obama and a 2012 Innovation Summit and Mentoring Partnership that brought young Africans to the United States for internships with U.S companies.

YALI participants have leveraged this support and gone on to start youth-driven organizations and networks, advise their governments, and establish new and vibrant businesses – all showcasing the extraordinary talent and promise of the young leaders who are transforming the African continent and their communities.

Taking Action on the Continent

Engagement with young African leaders has become a key focus of U.S. engagement in sub-Saharan Africa and a priority for our embassies and USAID missions. Since 2010, U.S. Embassies have accelerated outreach to young Africans and scaled up programs to train and support aspiring business and civic leaders across the continent. The U.S. Government has created opportunities for young Africans to engage with U.S. Government officials, businesses, and citizens by establishing Embassy Youth Councils in 25 countries. High-level U.S. officials regularly meet with young leaders during their travel to the continent. In total, since 2010, the U.S. Government has held over 2,000 events across the continent aimed at developing the next generation of Africa’s civic and business leaders.

In May 2011, our “Dialogue with Young African Leaders” included more than 200 events in 37 countries in a single month. That dialogue included Embassy-sponsored events on the continent and online engagement. It identified new U.S. partners, provided critical feedback on U.S. Government youth programs, and created a platform for a diverse set of young people to share their vision for the future.

The U.S. Government, through USAID, has also partnered with the African Union (AU) as the AU seeks to mainstream the participation of youth in all of its activities, including by funding pre-deployment training for 100% of the participants in the AU Youth Volunteer Corps and supporting the placement of AU Youth Volunteers in multiple African Union departments. The United States is also partnering with the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, The Rockefeller Foundation, and The Tony Elumelu Foundation to support the development of young African leaders throughout the continent.

Committing Resources to Developing Young Talent

Since 2010, the State Department has held fifteen exchanges specifically for young African leaders and sponsored 1,283 sub-Saharan scholars through its educational and cultural affairs programs. U.S. Embassies have awarded small grants totaling $750,000 to YALI alumni groups supporting youth development in Africa. Other State Department-led efforts, such as LIONS @FRICA and Apps4Africa, have focused on building an entrepreneurial ecosystem to encourage broad-based economic growth and opportunity for young entrepreneurs – partnering with the private sector to run startup competitions, grow incubators, and develop innovative new products to address local and business and development needs.

USAID has worked with local governments and institutions to strengthen access to education, workforce training, and skills development to help young Africans develop the skills needed to enter the labor force. Since YALI’s inception, USAID has invested more than $100 million in over 76 partnerships with African universities to help train a new generation of African leaders in health, agriculture, education, environmental science, technology, and other sectors.

Currently USAID’s Higher Education Solutions Network—a $25 million per year program—partners with African and U.S. higher education institutions, using science, technology and engineering to educate future leaders and research solutions for the greatest challenges in development. To further expand YALI, USAID will establish regional hubs to enhance leadership and training opportunities in Africa and better leverage over $200 million in ongoing youth programs and initiatives, such as university partnerships and vocational training, on the continent.

Other Departments and Agencies have reoriented their programs and strategies to contribute to the goal of empowering and providing opportunities for youth in Africa. The Department of Labor, for example, is investing in efforts to promote safe youth employment and business opportunities as alternatives to child labor, including a new $3 million program in Uganda to educate and train youth for quality jobs. The U.S. African Development Foundation is investing $5 million in training and placing thousands of Somali youth in paid internships and jobs, in addition to supporting small business start-ups.

Introducing the Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders

The Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders that President Obama announced today represents a major expansion of U.S. investment in the continent’s next cadre of leaders. Through this effort, the U.S. will develop a network of thousands of young African leaders across key sectors for Africa’s growth and development.

The Washington Fellowship will bring 500 young leaders to U.S. universities and colleges each year for academic and leadership training, beginning in 2014, with the goal of increasing to 1000 participants per year within five years. Fellows will receive world-class training and mentoring in three vital areas: business and entrepreneurship; civic leadership; and public administration.

The leaders’ experience in the United States will include a Presidential Summit in Washington, D.C. where Washington Fellows will interact with U.S. government, civic, and business leaders, including President Obama.

With the support of private and public sector partners, Washington Fellows will have access to exceptional opportunities including internships and placements with companies and NGOs and small grants to start businesses, establish or expand non-governmental organizations, or undertake projects to improve their communities.

Regional enrichment seminars, an on-line community, and a vibrant alumni network across Africa will also support Washington Fellows as they seek innovative solutions to local and global challenges. The United States, in conjunction with leading private sector partners such as Boeing, Ethiopian Air, and Microsoft, will support the Washington Fellows in pursuing these opportunities. More information on this flagship program can be found athttp://youngafricanleaders.state.gov.

IS IT HATE SPEECH TO CALL AMERICA RUINED SOCIETY?

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From: Ouko joachim omolo
The News Dispatch with Omolo Beste
SATURDAY, JUNE 29, 2013

Some of our News Dispatch News readers are wondering whether remarks by Cardinal John Njue that America is a “ruined” society can be categorized under hate speech. I do not know exactly what the cardinal meant but if he was referring to American people as ruined because a society does not exist in vacuum, then this is hate speech and it demands an apology from the cardinal to American people.

Furthermore president Obama did not categorically asserted that he supported the gay communities. What the president said on Thursday during his African tour is that gay people should not be discriminated against simply because they are gays. President Obama said the gay should be treated like other people under the law in Africa.
http://www.nation.co.ke/News/-/1056/1896906/-/w2q3bfz/-/index.html

If gay communities are the ones making society labeled ‘ruined’ then Kenya is not spared either. Many Kenyans are not even aware that homosexual lobby groups in our country are not only well organized, but also well funded. Notable among these funders is the Open Society Foundations of American Billionaire and liberal radical George Soros, and the Urgent Action Fund.

Kenyan people may be surprised that they gays in Kenya have the support of some high-ranking government officials, including politicians. It was behind this kind of support, Kenyan homosexual lobbies were behind plans to sneak in clauses repealing or seriously weakening the penal code section 162-165 (that criminalizes their homosexual behaviour). This was during the law review that culminated in a new constitution in August 2010.

Established in May 2006, GALCK is a coalition of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex (GLBTI) organisations based in Kenya. The website galck.org, expressly states their core mission to be the deletion of sections 162-165 of the penal code that criminalizes their lifestyles in Kenya. The coalition is comprised of Minority Women in Action (MWA), Gay Kenya, Ishtar, GALEBITRA, TOMIK, Diverse Outing, Changing Attitudes and Equality Now!

The GALCK General Manager has over the last few years been one, ex-seminarian Mr David Kuria from Kiambu County in Central Province. In late 2010, he commenced issuing press statements challenging former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s position that homosexual behaviour in Kenya remains illegal under the new constitution.

While some media houses have also been accused of being pro-gay, in may this year an Australian citizen accused of having sexual intercourse with other males wants the court to outlaw some sections of the sexual offences Act and declare homosexuality legal in Kenya.

Mr Ian Castleman who is facing criminal charges for having sex with two other male has filed a petition at the High Court challenging the Sexual Offences Act. He says the criminal charges amounts to discrimination because he has been charged because of his sexual orientation.

The two males he is accused of having sexual intercourse with, were residing at an orphanage operated by the petitioner and he offered them financial assistance.

The petitioner wants the High Court to make a decision on the rights of gay people in Kenya.

Through his lawyer, Mr Pravin Bowry, he is asking the High Court to declare that the Sexual offences act is discriminatory towards people who are homosexual. Mr Castleman wants the court to quash the charges against him which he says were preferred contrary to public policy and international law.

Mr Castleman is a Director of Ian Castleman Orphanage Kenya based in Elburgon within Nakuru County. His case was referred to the High Court by a magistrate for constitutional interpretation.

This is taking place when in Texas State some Catholic bloggers and pro-life activists are pointing out that a senior official at the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) played an official role in getting a pro-abortionist Davis elected senator.

Fr Joachim Omolo Ouko, AJ
Tel +254 7350 14559/+254 722 623 578
E-mail omolo.ouko@gmail.com
Facebook-omolo beste
Twitter-@8000accomole

Real change must come from ordinary people who refuse to be taken hostage by the weapons of politicians in the face of inequality, racism and oppression, but march together towards a clear and unambiguous goal.

-Anne Montgomery, RSCJ UN Disarmament Conference, 2002

Kenyan Suspects of Crime against humanity and genocide must be tried at the ICC in the Hague

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From: Gordon Teti

KENYAN COURTS HAVE NO INDEPENDENCE AND MUSCLE TO TRY SUSPECTS OF GENOCIDE AND CRIMES AGAINST HUMANITY WHO ARE HOLDERS OF THE HIGHEST PUBLIC OFFICE IN THE LAND

THOSE WHO say that Uhuru Kenyatta and William Ruto should be prosecuted in the Kenyan courts and not at the ICC must be kidding. The judgement regarding the stealing of land belonging to a victim of Post Election Violence by Ruto in 2008 is a warning shot. The judgement fell far below the standard required in a fair hearing. The Judge in reality cleared Ruto of any criminal responsibility. The 5 million that Ruto has been ordered to pay is not supported by any facts or imaginations in the court ruling and Ruto being a canning thief will buy time and in the end will not pay the victim even a penny. This was a gimmick by the Judge and the court to placate the confidence of the public to believe that the Kenyan courts are TODAY more independent of the Executive control after stealing the elections for Uhuru Kenyatta. This is balooni and total non sense. READ for DETAILS:

http://www.kenyanewsupdates.com/news/national-news/item/667-court-orders-ruto-to-pay-sh5million-and-return-the-land.html

POPE FRANCIS ACTS ON ACTIVITIES OF VATICAN WORKERS

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From: Ouko joachim omolo
The News Dispatch with Omolo Beste
THURSDAY, JUNE 27, 2013

Pope Francis has established a Pontifical Commission charged with drawing up an “exhaustive” report into the activities, structure and legal status of the Vatican’s Institute for the Works of Religion, more commonly known as the IOR, Vatican Radio reports.

The Commission is composed of 5 people: Cardinal Raffaele Farina, emeritus Archivist of the Vatican Secret Archives and Librarian of the Apostolic Library; Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran, current President of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue and former Archivist and Librarian of Holy Roman Church; Bishop Juan Ignacio Arrieta Ochoa de Chinchetru, Secretary of the Pontifical Council for Legislative Texts; Monsignor Peter Bryan Wells, Assessor for General Affairs of the Secretariat of State of the Holy See; Harvard Law Professor, President of the Pontifical Academy for Life and former US Ambassador to the Holy See, Mary Ann Glendon.

Presenting the Secretariat of State communique to journalists Wednesday, the Director of the Press Office of the Holy See, Fr. Federico Lombardi SJ, explained that the Commission is to conduct inquiries and present the Holy Father with a report of their findings “in view of possible reform,” specifying that Commission is not permanent. “The Pope,” said Fr. Lombardi, “has set for himself the objective of reforming the Vatican bank [sic] to make it more responsive to the needs of the Church,” and, “any decision about its nature will be taken after the work that this committee is to do.”

Fr Joachim Omolo Ouko, AJ
Tel +254 7350 14559/+254 722 623 578
E-mail omolo.ouko@gmail.com
Facebook-omolo beste
Twitter-@8000accomole

Real change must come from ordinary people who refuse to be taken hostage by the weapons of politicians in the face of inequality, racism and oppression, but march together towards a clear and unambiguous goal.

-Anne Montgomery, RSCJ UN Disarmament Conference, 2002

Africa & USA: Oxfam’s to-Do List for President Obama’s Africa Trip

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From: Yona Maro

PRESS RELEASE

Oxfam is urging President Obama and African leaders to make bold commitments to help transform African institutions into models of transparency and accountability over the next decade as billions of dollars in aid flows and oil, gas and mining revenues pour into the continent, affecting millions of lives.

With the President and First Lady Michelle Obama scheduled to travel to Senegal, South Africa and Tanzania over the next few days, the time is now to address the continent’s continued economic development, said Raymond C. Offenheiser, President of Oxfam America.

“President Obama got it right in Accra in 2009 when he said Africa’s future lies with Africa’s institutions. Now it’s time for the President to help Africa realize its full potential by investing directly in local governments and citizens, helping to increase transparency of budgets, extractive industry revenues, and tax systems for governments,” said Offenheiser.

Extracting resources – and billions

Over the next decade, more than $1 trillion in natural resources will be extracted from the African continent. Currently, Africa exports more than $300 billion a year in oil, gas and mineral exports–more than four times the amount of aid the continent receives. But that money is not building roads, schools and hospitals for Africa’s people. In fact, booming extractives industries often lead to more poverty and powerlessness. The people of Kedougou, Senegal, for instance, live atop a large scale gold-mining operation. But despite the riches found in their soil, none of it has been returned to their community. Many have lost access to the agricultural land that sustained their families, and many others did not even receive adequate compensation when they were forced off their lands without consultation.

The resource curse

Millions of people living near oil and mining sites, like those in Kedougou, struggle to survive on less than $2 a day. Instead of opportunity, this resource curse delivers environmental damage, loss of land and human rights abuses.

“I urge President Obama to shine a bright light on the current lack of transparency and accountability that perpetuates cycles of poverty and inequality in developing African nations,” said Offenheiser. “Tell your African counterparts to work to increase transparency in their budgets. Open payments from oil and mining companies to the light of transparency. Give African citizens knowledge about revenues from oil and mining companies. Let those citizens decide how to put their money to work for their own futures–let them claim their rights and fight for their own development.”

Lead by example

It’s time to lead by example, continued Offenheiser.

“President Obama should publicly announce when his own administration will release US government aid data, setting a tone on institutional transparency. As one of the largest aid donors in the world, the United States shouldn’t be one of the least transparent.”

Souleymane Zeba, West Africa Regional Director of Oxfam, added, “The resources generated by extractives industries should be helping local communities build resilience against climate and food security shocks, particularly in the Sahel where recurrent food crises are epidemic.”

Feed the Future

Offenheiser sees even greater potential for agriculture in Africa, with the right investments.

“The President’s Feed the Future Initiative recognizes the central role that agriculture can play in driving economic growth and poverty reduction, but initiatives like the New Alliance for Food Security and Nutrition, which promote private sector investment in select African countries, must not distract from badly needed development aid to this critical sector,” said Offenheiser. “The President must address legitimate concerns raised by civil society organizations about this initiative.”

In South Africa, Oxfam urges President Obama’s continued support for community-led accountability mechanisms.

“President Obama’s support for our HIV/AIDS response has been immensely important for South Africa’s continued efforts to realize the ambitions of a democratic, people-centered South Africa,” said Allan Moolman, Oxfam’s Country Director in South Africa.

http://obamaafricatrip2013.blogspot.com/2013/06/oxfams-to-do-list-for-president-obamas.html
—
Find Jobs in Africa Jobs in Africa
International Job Opportunities International Job Opportunities
Jobs in Kenya Jobs in Uganda

http://obamaafricatrip2013.blogspot.com/2013/06/oxfams-to-do-list-for-president-obamas.html

TANZANIA AND RUSSIA WILL SOON BE EMBROILED IN MAJOR LEGAL TUSSLES THROUGH COURT OVER DISPUTED URANIUM MINING IN MKUNJU RIVER MINING FIELDS.

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Writes Leo Odera Omolo

Tanzania and Russia may soon face each other in court in ne of the toughest legal battle against a Russian firm in a multimillion dollar engaged in the business of mining uranium over tax evasion.

Information emerging from Dar Es Salaam says that state is demanding nearly USD 206 million, which is equivalent to Tshs 329 billion taxes from the Russian firm ,Rosatom disputes the taxes invoices.JSC Atomredmetzoloi {ARMTZ} OF Russia in relation to its Mkunju River Uranium mines that the state owned mining arm of Russia’s nuclear watchdog

As a result the ARMZ, Uranium Holdings through its lawyer FB Attornery has filed a case before the Tax Appeal Tribunal of Tanzania to challenge the tax claim.

Gandasiosus Ishengoma also a lawyer confirmed last week that the ARMZ has challenge the state over its claim and filed a case through theTax Apeal Tribunal.

The Energy and Mineral Minister Prof. Sospeter Muhongo was quote by a source in Dar Es Salaam as saying that the Tshs 329.01 billion {205.80 million tax had originated from MkunjuRiver uranium mining.

TAnzania law was enacted in 2011 in order to close loophole in a tax holiday incentive because that allowed foreign firms to operate tax-free for first five years.

He same law stipulates that any foreign firm operating in the country must pay capital gain tax, when it changes to a third party.

Mantra Tanzania Ltd the former owners of Mkunju River uranium mine in December 2010 cedeed the project operations to AMZ after the firm had acquired the percentage. Mantra Resources of Australia For Tshs .1.667.1 billion USD.O43.8 million..

And immediately after the transactions, the state through the Tanzania Revenue Authority [TRA] issued invoices demanding that ARMTZ settles Tshs 327.7 million out of the total USD 9.8 in stamp duty.The sum is quoted as being equavalent to 43 per cent of the current Tazania’s health and social welfare budget of Tshs 753.85 billion..

Observers and watchers of Tanzania-Rusia relations have maintained that the tax battle between the two countries could create bad blood between the two business partners.

In April last year Tanzania licensed ARMTZ RANIUM Holding to establish the first uranium mines in Mkunju River which is located in the south of the country.

This licence is the first to be issued by Tanzania and the newly enacted mining laws.

Ends

The EAC has commissioned a study to enhance trade ties with the US

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Writes Leo Odera Omolo

The East African Community [EAC} has commissioned a study ahead of direct trade negotiations between the bloc and the United States which is keen to deepen ties with the region.

A directive by the EAC Sectoral Council on Trade, Industry, Finance and Investment, which consists of Ministers who handled the EAC docket, has directed the directors to undertake a study to determine what the negotiations should be based and how the region would benefit from any resultant agreement.

The Trade and Investment Partnership Agreement {TIPA] between the EAC and the US was initiated last year to support the economic integration of the region and enhance the EAC-US trade and investment play in economic and social development, including job creation,

Washington’s push for the clearly defined trade ties between East Africa Community and the United comes at a time when China is emerging as a dominant player in the region.

The study expected to be completed within four months will allow for shorter and more focused negotiations as opposed to the outgoing talks between the EAC a nd EU, which have dragged on for a long time.

A Mr Felix Okatch, a Kenyan multilateral trade expert, however, said the region should not expect a lot from the agreement because the distance between the two partners is a hindrance for trade when compared with the EU. Rwanda is the only country in the region that has a bilateral trade and investment agreement with the US. It was signed in December 2011.

He added that Rwanda-US deal would not affect the trade agreement to be signed by all the EAC member states and the US, as they would be bound by the most favored between nation {MEN} clause.

“In this case, what the US exports to Rwanda will also be exported to the other partners and what Rwanda exports to US can also be exported by the other partner states”, as per what the EAC treaty states.

The EAC-US trade and investment is a component of the US strategy towards Sub-Saharan Africa,which President Barrack Obama announced in June 2012.

President Obama’s objecives are to strengthen democratic institutions, promote peace ,unity and trade and investment.

The total trade volume between the EAC and the US is estimated currently at US D 1.1 billion and the trade between the US and Kenya is estimated at 656 million followed by Tanzania USD 201 million, Uganda USD 142 million, Rwanda stands at USD 81 million while trade with Burundi is USED 51 MILLION.

Ends

USA, NJ: Public Eye Group News : Community News

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from: PubliceyeT@ . . .

Raila Gives Speech to Kenyans in Jersey City, NJ
http://www.publiceyesite.org/blog/?p=20654

Sunday 06/16/13 Jersey City, NJ. Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga gave a speech to Kenyans in Jersey City, NJ which is a political spot light for Kenyan politicians when it comes to political fundraising and outreach meetings for the Diasporas. He was hosted at New Karibu Maranatha SDA Church, a Kenyan Church after being given flowers at the entrance and welcomed by Kenyan community leaders.
[ . . . ]
Read article
http://www.publiceyesite.org/blog/?p=20654

USA, Ohio: Next Thursday in Dayton (Higher Ed. prices concerns)

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Will you host a “Congress: Don’t Double Our Rates” gathering in Dayton next Thursday, June 27?

Host an Event!http://www.moveon.org/r?r=290698&id=69675-21095459-5mGmdhx&t=1

From: Anna Galland, MoveOn.org Civic Action

Dear MoveOn member,

The numbers are staggering: The cost of college has increased 440% over the past 25 years,1 students are graduating with an average of $26,000 in college loans,2 and student loan debt is now at more than $1 trillion—more than the nation’s combined credit card debt.3

But it could get even worse. Congress is on the verge of letting student loan interest rates double just two weeks from today. If we let that happen, we’ll lose our best opportunity to provide relief for millions of students and graduates being crushed by student loan debt—and miss our chance to have a real national conversation about what investing in students might look like.

That’s why MoveOn members coast to coast are rallying at the offices of members of Congress next Thursday, June 27, to send a clear message to Congress: Don’t Double Our Rates!

We still need a host for an event near Dayton. Can you step up and lead? Click here to post your gathering for Thursday, June 27:

http://www.moveon.org/r?r=290698&id=69675-21095459-5mGmdhx&t=2

First pick a time and a location for your action and post it in MoveOn’s online system, then we’ll invite other MoveOn members in your area to attend and make sure you have everything you need for a successful Bank on Students action. And you’ll be equipped with the latest updates on Sen. Elizabeth Warren’s Bank on Students Loan Fairness Act, which would let students pay the same rates the big banks pay.

As Sen. Warren told 10,000 MoveOn members during an emergency briefing earlier this month, making sure student loan rates don’t double on July 1 is the vital first step in taking on the student debt crisis that burdens so many American families today.

Click here to host an event in your community.

Thanks so much for all you do.

–Anna, Manny, Rosy, Linda, and the rest of the team

1. “Student Loan Debt Is a Beast. Here Are Elizabeth Warren’s, President Obama’s, and the GOP’s Plans to Fix It,” Mother Jones, June 3, 2013
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=290535&id=69675-21095459-5mGmdhx&t=4

2. Project on Student Debt, accessed June 17, 2013
http://projectonstudentdebt.org/

3. “Who makes money off your student loans? You might be surprised,” Yahoo News, May 23, 2013
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=290799&id=69675-21095459-5mGmdhx&t=5

USA: The end of Roe v. Wade

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Speaker Boehner and Majority Leader Cantor are pushing an unconstitutional bill through the House that would ban abortions after 20 weeks of pregnancy–without any exception for the woman’s health. Sign the petition to tell them to drop this bill and stop attacking women.

Visit Here http://act.weareultraviolet.org/go/879?t=2&akid=488.6000.TUDXfe

From: Nita and Shaunna, Ultraviolet

Dear Readers,

Remember Todd “legitimate rape” Akin? And Richard Mourdock who said a pregnancy from rape is “gift from God”?1 Well, they’re back–or at least their policies are. Trent Franks, a tea party Republican Congressman from Arizona, said last week that “the incidence of rape resulting in pregnancy are very low.”2 The truth: at least 30,000 women become pregnant from rape each year.3

What’s even scarier? The House is set to vote on Rep. Franks’s proposal to criminalize abortion nationwide after the 20th week of pregnancy this week.4

Republicans in Congress are using this bill to score political points with their conservative base, but after the 2012 election, they’re also desperate to appeal to women voters. Now, it’s up to all of us to send them a clear message: Women are watching and we are speaking out. Stop attacking our rights. Can you sign the petition telling Speaker Boehner and Majority Leader Cantor to drop this bill now? We’ll deliver your signature and comments before the vote.

Tell Congress: Drop the 20-week abortion ban.

Attempts to ban abortions after 20 weeks aren’t new–extreme conservatives have been pushing similar legislation through state legislatures for years now. Nine states have all passed similar laws, including Indiana, Louisiana and Nebraska. But the bill is unconstitutional, and it directly contradicts Roe v. Wade. Just last month, Arizona’s ban was thrown out by the federal appeals court. Courts have also overturned similar laws in Idaho and Georgia.5

It’s also dangerous. If it’s passed, doctors who perform safe abortion care could be tried and imprisoned–even if a woman was at risk for severe, permanent health problems.6

Not all Republicans are on board with their party’s latest extreme attack on women. Republican Rep. Charlie Dent even said of his own party’s leadership, “Clearly the economy is on everyone’s minds… and now we’re going to have a debate on rape and abortion… The stupidity is simply staggering.”7

If we all speak out now, we can show Speaker Boehner and Majority Leader Cantor that pushing this bill through the House–and continuing the Republican war on women–is not only wrong, it’s going to cost them politically.

Sign the petition.

Thanks for speaking out.

–Nita, Shaunna, Kat, Malinda and Karin, the UltraViolet team

Sources:

1. Rape remarks sink two Republican Senate hopefuls, NBC News, November 7, 2012

2. Trent Franks: ‘The Incidence Of Rape Resulting In Pregnancy Are Very Low’, Huffington Post, June 12, 2013

3. Ibid.

4. House GOP Set To Vote Next Week On 20-Week Abortion Ban, Talking Points Memo, June 12, 2013

5. Abortion Bans at 20 Weeks: A Dangerous Restriction for Women, NARAL Pro-Choice America

House Republican Calls Nationwide Abortion Ban Vote ‘Staggering Stupidity’, Think Progress, June 13, 2013

6. Trent Franks, Abortion Bans, and the Fetal Pain Lie, RH Reality Check, June 13, 2013

7. House Republican Calls Nationwide Abortion Ban Vote ‘Staggering Stupidity’, Think Progress, June 13, 2013

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USA & Kenya: Re: Obama praises Raila for respecting election petition outcome

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From: roz kahumbu
Date: Fri, Jun 14, 2013 at 1:28 AM
Subject: Obama praises Raila for respecting election petition outcome

Judy,

Seeing is believing….Please post the event. It must be recent….

What nation says these days looks like propaganda.

roz

—————
From: Judy Miriga
Sent: Friday, June 14, 2013 6:18 AM
Subject: Obama praises Raila for respecting election petition outcome

Good news, just comming in timely…………

Judy Miriga
Diaspora Spokesperson
Executive Director
Confederation Council Foundation for Africa Inc.,
USA
http://socioeconomicforum50.blogspot.com

Obama praises Raila for respecting election petition outcome

By NATION REPORTER
Posted Thursday, June 13 2013 at 18:56

In Summary

“It is my sincere hope that Kenya will move forward from these elections to build on the promise of its Constitution and to solidify her rightful place as a vibrant, prosperous democracy, centred on the rule of law,” Mr Obama said.

US President Barack Obama has commended former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for his conduct during the post-election judicial review period.

President Obama and former US Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Johnnie Carson praised Mr Odinga for accepting the verdict of the Supreme Court that upheld the election of Mr Uhuru Kenyatta as Kenya’s fourth president.

Mr Odinga was expected to leave for the US last evening where among other engagements, he will deliver a talk at the Woodrow Wilson Centre in Washington DC on Africa’s next 50 years.

“Through your words and your actions, you affirmed the importance of the rule of law and constitutional order and helped ensure a better future for Kenyans,” said the US President in the letter dated April 3.

“It is my sincere hope that Kenya will move forward from these elections to build on the promise of its Constitution and to solidify her rightful place as a vibrant, prosperous democracy, centred on the rule of law,” Mr Obama said.

Mr Carson said that like many Kenyans, he too waited with bated breath for the Supreme Court ruling on the election petition.

“I express my deep respect and appreciation to you on how you handled yourself during the entire judicial review process,” he said.

“Your early commitment to respect the judgment of the court and your consistent appeals to your supporters to honour and respect that decision have been instrumental in preventing a recurrence of the violence that occurred after the last presidential election in 2007,” he said.

Mr Carson noted that the former PM’s actions reflected his deep dedication to the rule of law.

“They also reflected your respect for judicial opinions and your unwavering commitment to the democratic values you have stood for and fought for throughout your career,” he said.

EU to give millions of Euros for the rehabilitation of water towers in Mt Elgon and Chrangayi regions

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Reports Leo Odera Omolo

The European Union will fund the rehabilitation of the Cheranganyi and Mt Elgon water towers program in Western Kenya to the tune of 2.5 million Euros {K shs 278 million.

The two water towers are reported to have been massively depleted of the indigenous trees by illegal loggers threatening the survival of the rivers that depend on them including the world famous Nile River.

The project is to be undertaken by the Moi University, Eldoret in collaboration with the Forest Research Institute {kefri}

This was disclosed last week by the Dean of the Environmental Studies at the Eldoret based University Vinah Vindoi who disclosed that the project will be implemented over a period of six year and will benefit the local communities through the creation of jobs and rehabilitation of the much vandalized and depleted forest resources.

He said there has been discrimination in dissemination of information to the local communities leaving the room and vacuum which has turned into wanton destruction the two important water towers.

He said once the key objective of the project in sensitizing the local communities to the real need of conserving and protecting the towers, this could turn out to be the most important part of the rehabilitation objectives.

The local communities will then aide the conservation efforts by the government and other stakeholders.

Prof Sindoi said that KEFRI will conduct further research and recommend the type of tree seedling that will be suited for the area. The tree will be replanted in the area set aside as the commercial areas or zones and will be sourced from the local communities.

HE urged the local communities to take the conservation work seriously. The locals have bee accused of destroying hr forest through charcoal burning and illegal loggers.

Meanwhile another important project to get rid of Lake Victoria water hyacinth is also taking shape soon. The project is just about to take off in Homa-Bay and Kisumu Counties.

And this time around the Kisumu based Lake Victoria Environmental Program LVEMPI is determined to ensure that the dreadful weeds, which invaded the lake two decade ago, and since caused problems for the fishermen, and made navigation of small vessels well as ships difficult, is permanently eradicated.

THe weed which has been a menace to fishing expedition in the areas affected like Homa-Bay and Kisumu Counties will be removed manually and biologically.

This comes after all the previous effort to clear the lake of the weed had flopped. LVEMP is expecting to receive a machine for this purpose from the Kenya Marine and will also use the weevils to feed on the weeds.

Ends

Tanzania Told To Severe Link With Monsanto

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From: Leila Abdul

By Nizar Visram

28 May, 2013
Countercurrents.org

Normally Tanzanian lawmakers would ‘prove’ their radicalism by blasting rival parties, state authorities, public corporations or ministers for shoddy work done or millions that go missing. Hardly do they take a swipe at a multinational corporation, much less if it is an American one

Yet that is what happened recently when Hon Halima Mdee (Chadema) called upon the government to severe its relations with the international seed company Monsanto, which is a major stakeholder in the country’s campaign for green revolution.

She reminded that the firm had caused farmers misery and suffering in many countries, including the US, where it is based.

The company, known for the production of genetically modified seeds, has been blacklisted in India, Argentina, Chile and eight European countries because the seeds it sells to farmers at high prices have been a disaster, prompting some nations to institute legal action against it, Ms Mdee said

“Last year the company committed $50 billion to producing seeds for Africa, but the firm is known around the world as a major producer of genetically modified seeds, which are harmful to farmers and environment,” she cautioned

Ms Mdee suspected that given the company’s bad reputation, President Jakaya Kikwete might have been misinformed by his aides. “This is because we know that these large multinationals have a tendency to use their financial muscle to compromise government leaders.”

Shadow agriculture minister Rose Kamili noted that India has banned the use of cotton seeds produced by Monsanto after research established that they were a threat to farmers and the environment.

In fact more than 1,000 farmers had committed suicide as a result of debts resulting from buying seeds from Monsanto at high prices.

The points brought up by the two ladies hardly triggered any reaction or rejoinder. Probably the lawmakers were not well informed of the subject matter, or they were not too keen to irritate the conglomerates who promote genetically modified organisms (GMO) and the donor agencies that back them

Yet the debate is no doubt raging within the civil society, among groups that are running concerted campaign against GMO. But they are not having an easy ride, for Monsanto is applying pressure in the country for amendment to regulations so as to allow GMO.

They are using local scientists and researchers as well as state bigwigs. The firm reportedly provides all the means, from laboratory to foreign travels. In the course, they manage to get local spokespersons and mouthpieces.

Tanzania Alliance for Biodiversity is not among them. This is a joint coalition that is trying to maintain agricultural biodiversity for food sovereignty and security. It aims at sustainable development, promoting self-determination and facilitating exchange of information and experiences among farmers

Alliance members are convinced that the introduction of GM crops or animals is not the right solution in fighting poverty and hunger as claimed by the likes of Monsanto.
They are concerned that while Tanzania has so far been GM free, the country has now opened the door to GM biotechnology.

The Alliance has collected various campaigners, including African Centre for Biodiversity, ActionAid International Tanzania, Biolands, BioRe, BioSustain, Envirocare, PELUM Tanzania, Swissaid, and Tanzania Organic Agriculture Movement.

They join similar movements in South Africa, Zambia, Kenya, and Uganda, to resist the pressure from the US-driven biotech industry.

On the other side, agribusiness corporations try their level best to promote what they claim to be high-tech miracle seeds for solving the problem of African food insecurity and poverty.

One supporter they apparently managed to bag is none other than President Jakaya Kikwete himself who, in March this year, came out in defence of Monsantos, heaping the blame on those who challenge them, saying they are “uninformed” and so need to educate themselves.

He called for a transformation of “negative mindset” on the adoption of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) technology in the country, challenging scientists in the country to conduct research to establish the “practicality of the technology”, stressing that as long as there are “no proven major negative impacts”, he saw no logic in opposing the application of the technology.

His prime minister, Mizengo Pinda also accused those who oppose GMO of being “slow in accepting the opportunity” offered by the technology, claiming that Kenya and Uganda are “far ahead of us in its application”

Thus, at the official level Tanzania supports the plan to conduct research on genetically modified crops in the country. Agriculture Minister said it is aimed at keeping up with the new technology in order to modernise agriculture and promote balanced economic growth.

He said the time for being rigid on the use of GMOs was over.

Nothing is said about the decision taken by the European Union who banned GMO crops on grounds such as pesticide resistance and threats to biodiversity or potential negative effects on the environment.

What the Tanzanian and African apologists of GMO have to keep in mind is that traditionally the seed and its control has been the foundation of their agricultural sector. After all some 80% of seed comes from local and communal resources and is adapted to local conditions. It is thus an integral part of the communal food security and agricultural integrity. With the onslaught of GMO this traditional system is undermined.

This is what happens when commercial interests, supported by the World Bank, together with front organisations and self styled philanthropists, attempt to alienate this crucial resource.

This is done by giant multi-national seed and pesticide companies that are promoting hybrid and genetically modified (GM) seed. While they claim to assist the development of African agriculture, the end result is disastrous.

One example is South African seed industry – the biggest in Africa – whose deal was recently sealed when the country’s court permitted the sale of the last remaining large seed company, Pannar, to the US multinational Pioneer, a subsidiary of DuPont. With this the US firm is to take over Pannar’s African network.

It means South Africa’s valuable seed industry is grabbed by world’s two largest US seed companies that are to use South Africa to gain inroad into Africa, with serious consequence for indigenous seed networks.

Meanwhile, organisations like the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) claim that new seed being developed for Africa will be freely distributed to smallholder farmers.

What happens is that these giant seed corporates transfer the experience of South America to Africa. In South America the herbicide-resistant GM soya that was patented by Monsanto was surreptitiously encouraged.

When the soy industry became widespread, Monsanto started to claim royalties on all the soy grown, since it established the right to its intellectual property. Luckily the attempts in Brazil were over ruled in the courts and Monsanto was ordered to refund billions of dollars to farmers.

It is such practice that prompted the on-line campaign run by Avaaz to post a global petition aiming at exposing Monsanto’s worldwide grip, cautioning that the mega-company is gradually taking over our global food supply, poisoning our politics and putting the planet’s food future in serious danger.

The petition shows how Monsanto develops pesticides and genetically modified (GM) seeds, patents the seeds, prohibits farmers from replanting their seeds year to year, then sends undercover agents out to investigate and sue farmers who don’t comply.

The firm spends millions lobbying US government officials, contributing to their political campaigns, then works with them to push Monsanto goods into markets across the world.

Monsanto is trampling small farmers and small businesses as vast ‘monoculture’ farms of single crops leech the land of nutrients, diminish genetic diversity, and create dependency on fertilizers, pesticides and other chemicals. .

“Monsanto’s power in the US gives them a launch pad to dominate across the world. But brave farmers and activists from the EU, to Brazil, to India and Canada are resisting and starting to win,” Avaaz proclaims.

The on-line petition shows how farmers are lured into multi-year contracts, then seed prices rise, and they have to buy new seed each season and use more herbicides to keep out ‘super weeds’. In India, the situation is so dire that one cotton area has been called ‘the suicide belt’, as tens of thousands of the poorest farmers have taken their lives to escape crippling debt.

Not surprising, therefore, that, at the end of November 2012, Kenya banned the importation of genetically modified food on health grounds.

A stormy public ‘debate’ ensued. There were those on the side of ‘modernity’ and ‘science,’ denouncing the lack of ‘scientific evidence’ among their opponents.

Such ‘defence’ of GMO is not surprising. Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research provides USD25 million annually to biotechnology research globally. At the same time bilateral aid agencies – especially from the United States – provide 60 per cent of research funding for biotechnology

Private philanthropic foundations are also involved in funding the research. They include the Howard Buffet Foundation, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Rockefeller Foundation. Multinational biotechnology companies, including Monsanto and Syngenta, also chip in

In so doing they try to stymie the debate that is going on globally. However, they only succeeded in extending the battle against GMO to Africa where farmers are putting up strong resistance to the so-called modernity

Nizar Visram is a citizen of Tanzania who has been writing feature articles for various media outlets inside and outside Africa for almost 30 years. Born in Zanzibar, he is retired senior lecturer in Development Studies at the Institute of Finance Management in Dar es Salaam He can be contacted at:nizar1941@yahoo.com

Kenya: A letter from 2013 to 4013, a letter from the 21st century to the 41st century…

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From: Jeremy Kinyanjui

Nairobi, Kenya
11th June 2013

A letter from 2013 to 4013, a letter from the 21st century to the 41st century…

George Orwell published his book “1984” in 1949, and “Prince” released his hit single “1999” in 1982, both men reaching out to the future, a future that came faster than many imagined, and a future that is now 29 years behind us in George Orwell’s case, and 14 years behind us in “Prince’s”. There are those who came before us, and there are those who shall come after us. As we continue to pay homage to our forefathers and ancestors, so also should we seek to reach out to the future in our own way, as did Orwell in 1949, and as did “Prince” in 1982. And with all the fascinating capabilities, breakthroughs & technology of our times, we should seek to be the first generations of mankind to compile detailed transcripts, images, audios and videos for the generations ahead of us, we should seek to be the first generations of mankind to give the future guided tours of the 20th & 21st centuries, we should seek to be to be the first generations of mankind to take the 41st century on guided tours of our times.

Global society is currently going through a transition of Biblical proportions. The global economy is insolvent and has formally been on “life support machines” since late 2008 when Lehmans Brothers went bust in the United States, and after which then US President George W. Bush artificially created US $ 750 billion liquid bailout cash, for the artificial propping up of the US economy. Current US President Barack Obama has followed up George W. Bush ‘s massive artificial creation of liquid bailout cash with at least two of his own since 2009, and across the Atlantic in Europe, massive artificial creations of liquid bailout cash i.e. “economic life support machines”, are now the order of the day. What Governments around the world cannot understandably tell us is that global economy is bust and insolvent, because by doing so, an already bad situation will become much worse. We are now not living a lie, but are a breeding ground for lies.

Capitalism has collapsed and with it, the modern day trans-Atlantic Anglo-Saxon Empire of the United States of America and Europe. Strictly speaking however, it is the United States of America that is the singular Empire of our times, and the rest of us are merely provinces of the modern day Anglo-Saxon Empire, because it is the Marshall Plan of then US Secretary of State George Marshall that re-built severely devastated post-World War II Europe and that equally re-built severely devastated post-World War II Japan. The G-7 group of Nations has traditionally comprised the United States of America, Germany, France, Britain, Italy, Japan and Canada, and as mentioned, it is American capital that built modern Europe and modern Japan, and Canada is part of the Commonwealth Nations headed by Her Majesty the Queen of England, so it is crystal clear at a glance who actually calls the shots in these times that we live in i.e. the United States of America. The overrated China is also just a province of the US Empire, because modern China was also built by Richard Nixon’s America, Gerald Ford’s America & Ronald Reagan’s America, so talk of a Chinese Empire is just a myth. There was indeed the Mongol Empire of Genghis Khan, but this was 1,000 years ago. Chinese companies and Chinese engineers working on all range of projects across the length & breadth of sub-Saharan Africa, are no different for instance, from say Kenya Airways, Kenya Breweries, or the Kenya Pipeline Company, whose names and local labour force can give the impression that they are owned by indigenous Kenyans, when they are in fact Anglo-Saxon owned corporations.

But even the fall of an Empire is not exactly instantaneous, the best example of our times being that of Communism and it’s fall in 1991. Twenty two years after the fall of Communism, North Korea still stands as the last bastion of Communism, even though North Korea now clearly looks likes it’s on it’s final leg. Using the example of North Korea therefore, and using the first massive artificial creation of liquid bailout cash of US $ 750 billion in late 2008 by then US President George W. Bush as the formal reference point of the fall of Capitalism, then the modern day trans-Atlantic Anglo-Saxon Empire of the United States of America and Europe will still likely be standing and still likely be calling global shots 22 years from the year 2008 i.e. the year 2030. But this reign does not look like it can extend beyond the year 2040 at most, because the “life support machines” of Capitalism are operating under tremendous strain and will break down after only a given number of years.

When the Anglo-Saxon Empire does eventually come down with a dramatic thud circa the year 2040 from all indications, then it will be every man for himself globally, and we shall not be spared the widespread strife, chaos and anarchy that follow the fall of any Empire. It looks like for a period of about 200 years after the Anglo-Saxon Empire eventually comes down with a dramatic thud circa the year 2040, there shall be general chaos, disorder, conflicts and wars, that will ease out circa the year 2240, when another dominant Empire emerges. The script that lies ahead of us is one of epic Biblical dimensions clearly. We have almost precisely committed the same sins and same mistakes of our forefathers and ancestors, and shall not be spared any less of retribution than that of our forefathers and ancestors, and this applies to all of mankind.

So now would not be a bad time for us to as much as possible compress and preserve as much history of these times as possible, documentaries, videos, audios, photographs, the works. The beauty part of these times we live in is that tremendous volumes of information can be stored on a microchip. These microchips, if any, should be tightly sealed with instructions in eight of the major most languages spoken in the world today, on the compatible technologies required to retrieve the data from the microchips. Two thousand years after the fall of Rome, Latin is still not an entirely extinct language, so 2,000 years from today, not all languages spoken today shall be extinct.

The microchips, if any, should not be stored conventionally, but should instead be very tightly sealed with sensor emitting signals that will be programmed to begin beaming signals after 2,000 years at the earliest, and then be placed in all manner of diverse anonymous locations i.e. & e.g. the depths of oceans, seas, rivers & canyons, the heights of mountains and alps, the midst of vast remote plains and deserts, the depths of the earth, and as matter of fact, some could even be shot to the moon and other nearby planets, because the Americans still have the capabilities of doing this. The microchips should have welcoming messages, both written & audio in eight major spoken languages, warmly welcoming the audience to the year of our Lord 2013 and these times that we live. The guided tours of our times would then commence thereafter. Why not? We’ve written letters all our lives, why not one to the future? We could even help avert the future from making the same mistakes that we, our forefathers and our ancestors made. Let’s do it…

Here in Kenya where we do not value our history and heritage, unlike the Occident and the Orient, where Manchester United, Nigerian movies & Nigerian accents, South African soap operas and Latin American soap operas matter more than we the nationals and citizens of this beautiful country that Heaven bequeathed to us, easy access should be given to our former colonial masters, the British, to the dusty unused vaults of the Kenya News Agency, the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) and the Information Department of the Ministry of Information and Communication, where volumes and volumes of idle videos and idle still images dating back to British East Africa, the East Africa Protectorate, colonial Kenya, the Jomo Kenyatta years and the D.T. arap Moi years . The Government of Kenya should allow the British to catalogue this history for us and digitise it for placement on a master microchip to the 41st century.

A letter from 2013 to 4013, a letter from the 21st century to the 41st century. Why not? It’s time…