The street-smart

It's complicated

2012-01-01T08:30:00.000+01:00

I am a married man and blissful father to a daughter. But it’s 1:34 am on 30 December 2011 and I am still not in bed. Bloody husband…

I have been watching (~~naked news~~) naked truth, a reality documentary by Michael Moore which washed the sleep off my eyes.

I’ve realised that as the world economy navigates a downturn and inequalities threaten the world’s peace with wars of the poorest against the richest, life goes on.

Life goes on as millions die in hunger in Haiti and Somalia even if their situation is no more in the news headline;

Life goes on as millions of children are enslaved in China and DR Congo to make our shoes and feed the hype for new technologies;

Life goes on as thousand of livelihoods are at risk in island such as Mauritius, polluted by intensive exploitation and holidays waste;

Life goes on as defense departments fund billion dollars researches on unman military technologies while international law is lazy to keep the pace;

Life goes on as the world is losing its humanism.

Fahrenheit 9/11 has reminded me why this year, my wife and I have chosen Top TV, an alternative to DSTV; a choice for more user generated content such as Current TV over mainstream media funded content.

Reality of events happening in the world is not as real as painted on TV or by governments. Of cause we all know that. But to realise how far the greed kill nowadays it’s really upsetting.

The year 2011 brought us stories of courage, success and inequalities as ever before.

I would wish that in 2012 you and I have a meaningful life by standing for the truth and justice.

'As complicated and desperate a situation may seem, a good will shall overcome the chains of injustice'

Let kill the greed in us.

Why No Youth Revolution for the Sub-Saharan Africa?

2011-05-30T14:12:00.009+01:00

Last week I attended an opened debate on the Arab awakening organised by a major African nonprofit organisation and realised that nobody was tweeting nor the organiser had a functioning Twitter profile. Bang!!! That was a wake up call.

Since the beginning of this year, there has been hysteria about information communication technologies (ICTs) especially the use of mobile and online media. Nonprofit organisations and mainstream media have been stressing the importance and role that ICTs can play for human rights, development and social justice. More importantly, the Arabe awakening in the Middle East countries which echo the youth revolution in Tunisia has been an historical moment, evidence of the importance of new media for democracy.

While we acknowledge successful stories with the use of these tools and their potential in galvanising youth for civil activism and other sensitive issues, there is feeling that the sub-Saharan Africa region is behind and seems unable to seize the momentum with revolutions in Tunisia, Egypt and Libya. Should youth in Sub-Saharan countries expect identic revolutions or what should they do?

There are lessons to learn from these revolutions.

I strongly believe that every revolution has something specific and its media coverage has particular dimensions. Just as the army played a major role in the Egyptian uprising, I will expect tribes to define the outcomes of unrest in Yemen.

Therefore, I would oppose ideas that Africa or more specifically the sub-Saharan Africa will not experience a youth revolution because internet penetration and social media user numbers are lower, or because the role of tribes in Sub-Saharan countries is not as powerful as in Arabic countries.

Rather, I suggest looking at factors which played in favor of youth in Tunisia, Egypt and at certain extend Yemen. Doing such exercise will help us understand where Africa’s revolution may start and how should we approach what still be a dream for freedom and better life for millions of Africans oppressed in authoritarian regimes. There must be something specific that Sub-Saharan youth should build from.

Here are four small social facts which I think play a major role in youth revolution in North Africa and the Middle East:

1. Friday prayers: Is Islam more favorable to revolution than the Christian religion? – one could ask. This is a pertinent question worth a research that I will not try here to discuss. To say the truth I have not an answer to the question. However, on a simple consideration of the role Friday prayers play, we should realise that they served as catalysers to gather thousands. Consequently, though governments may have declared state-of-emergency and ipso facto restricts movement of population, they could not deny them their right to pray.
As young, old, children and women go to pray on Friday and get to the street soon after, that was a blow to security forces. I personnaly believe that this wouldn’t be easy if people had to come from their home.

The context of Sub-Saharan African countries where religions are far more diversified, people are scattered between so many believes. The hope of a Friday prayer meeting effect in such a case is very small unless interfaith and faith based organisations take the lead to galvanised masses to get into street after their Sunday services.

2. Use of social media: While many things are still being said about Twitter and Facebook. I would like to emphasise that there are many other tools that have been used such as other arab networking sites. But more importantly, the fact that English was used mainly and not the Arabic, contributed to raise awareness to a far more bigger audience especially in the west. Which outcomes into more pressure on the regime.

In the Sub-Saharan region, there are particularities/preferences which must be taken in account. The region has francophone, anglophone and lusophone countries and each group has specific social networks. For example, in South Africa, more youth use Mxit while in French speaking countries Yahoo Messenger chat and MySpace not long ago were top social networking sites. A prerequisite research on most used network on the ground is indispensable if social medial as to play an important role alike in Middle East.

3. Geopolitic: International institutions such as the United Nations and the European Union have been criticised of double stardard when dealing with human rights abuses in some countries or regions. We cannot ignore the strategic importance that stability in some countries play for peace in the region or countries resources role in the global economy. I was not surprised to see how the USA/the West acted with urgency on the Egyptian revolution than they did in Tunisia. Egypt weights in the balance for Israel/Middle East peace process.

The chance for most sub-Saharan countries to get at the eye of the USA/the West and translate into their action will take Africa youth/protestors to play the right tune. Colonial powers, alike France and Great Britain have each different interest and often take firm action in their colonies. I was not surprised that France almost played it solo in Ivory Cost to help the elected president Alassane Ouattara gets into power. A concerted action such as in Libya, should it be needed in a Sub-Saharan francophone or Anglophone country is not likely I personally think.

4. Revolutions with no face: The fact that there was no leader to the revolution in Tunisia, Egypt and Yemen made it even more popular. Since the protest could not or abstain to get politicised, consequently it gained credibility to thousands of citizens.

Peaceful protest in the street of many African countries still has to be seen. Yet, if that should happen, protesters will have to stand their ground against the crackdown from regimes in place as well as resist opportunistic politicians who may highjack or weaken their revolution.

Overall, whatever we see or have seen in Egypt and Tunisia did not start this year. The revolution in Egypt did not just happened in Tahrir squared. It has been in gestation underground, inside and outside Egypt borders. Many events and circumstances contributed to shaping a revolution.

Just as the case in North Africa, many African countries are going through phase of protest and repression.

- DR Congo: Congolese diaspora in Europe, USA, Canada and South Africa have been protesting and disturbing gathering of whoever endorse publically president Kabila for the upcoming elections. Though these protests show a lack of coordination, more and more Congolese have started supporting this cause and oppose the reelection of Kabila who has been in charge for 10 years. Unless those in Kinshasa join and get to the street, they won’t be pressure on the regime.

- Uganda: People got to the street to protest against the president Museveni reelection, the rising fuel price as well as food cost. Museveni regime did crackdown on the protest which since seem have lost momentum. I find it unfortunate that protestors endorsed Besigye, Museveni’s main opposant as the main figure to their cause. I still not see how events in Uganda can lead to a revolution because tribal alliances and citizens’ affinities toward Besigye will weaken it. Protestors’ grieves may not be viewed by other Ugandans as a common concern.

- Zimbabwe and Swaziland: We have heard about civil society organisations protests which had been violently suppressed. In these countries, internet penetration still at its lowest compared to other African countries and the cost of telecommunication is among the highest in the continent. Putting in place a massive protest would require the use of adequate off-line media that organisers do not have despite backing and supports from South African trade unions like COSATU which has been a think-tank for civil rights activists in the region.

- Rwanda: The government in Rwanda has nothing to fear from inside. The threat is outside – the opposition to Kagame has been organising. Reports that the Rwandans government made death threats onto two Rwandans in exile is not surprising. Hundreds of thousands of Hutu still in exile and some of them have been leaving in refugee camps in DR Congo and Central African Republic for more than 17 years fearing repression in Rwanda. Now, using social media and traditional media such as Al Jazeera, this group is lobbying its cause for freedom in Rwanda. Soon or later, if the regime in Kigali doesn’t become inclusive of other ethnic groups, another violent revolution is to be feared.

Definitely, the African continent is the host to the world longest regimes, with head-of-state into power for more than 20 years in countries like Angola, Zimbabwe, Uganda, Republic of Congo, Gabon and Burkina Faso. More than in any other continent, Africans as a whole deserve the right to freedom and development. However, the possibility with a revolution in sub-Saharan African countries will also rely on the youth’s courage to overcome institutional repression and the ability to coordinate massive protests.

There is no doubt that both African youth and head-of-states are learning from unfolding events in the Middle East and North Africa. Given this circumstance, only the courage, unpredictability and creativity of African youth will give them the upper hand over dictatorship. The digital divide is a fact in Sub-Saharan Africa with household crippled by unemployment and HIV/AIDS. Unless African youth learn to use what they have and bypass states censorship to mobilise the masses, the revolution will never happen.

The leftovers

2011-04-12T12:20:00.008+01:00

Above all expectations, South Africa has hosted ten months ago one of the best FIFA World Cup in history. However, once again, you may have been asking which legacy this event has left to South Africans or at least what the country has gained out of it. To find an answer, we should assess the fact around us. One way of doing is by looking out of your window, what do you see?

The year 2010 saw the first FIFA World cup organised on an African soil. After years of polemics and pessimistic arguments from overseas media, South Africa won the BID and promised to hold the best tournament. With an event of such magnitude, consequently, millions of rands have been invested into infrastructures such as road, accommodations, leisure and tourism by both the private and public sector.

Today, the prospect of new market, first time buyers/investors, expectation raised with hundreds of thousands fans entering the country last year has surely left some local investors better off or worst.

Ten months after the event, looking back, which investment has been worth? I look out of my window.

From my office at SANGONeT 29th floor UCS building (http://tinyurl.com/69upgws), the Protea Hotel Packtownian’s (http://tinyurl.com/643foz) rooftop is six floors below my window. I have eye witnessed fourteen months ago the refurbishing of the Hotel, especially its rooftop as they created few square meter four-holes artificial green pitch Golf on the pavement.

Keeping things short, to juge by what I see in the past weeks, the Hotel’s small Gold green has been an attraction.

First I was stroke in December to see a group of people on the Hotel roof for the first time. A group of Chinese with camera zoom were taking pictures. Were they of those expected to come back after the world cup?

Since, I have seen people/couple of young and old, playing to get balls in the holes - apparently they enjoy the game.

What do you see? I have seen more than once music/show company’s actors and actresses in production at the Johannesburg Civic Theatre (http://tinyurl.com/5rvpw8z) tinning under Jozi’s sun on the rooftop. The hotel has an indoor swimming pool and they seem having fun playing ‘Golf’. Hopefully they will come back…

Two weeks ago the rooftop was seemingly set for a night civil wedding. Unfortunately I had to leave office and have lost the picture I took.

The Hotel is hundred meters from the Civic Theatre and it is the second biggest Hotel in Braamfontein after the Devonshire Hotel - Orion (http://tinyurl.com/6btojoy). Thus, I would mislead to conclude that the busy on the roof/Parktownian Hotel is a fall out of 2010 World Cup or what so ever investment they have made.

Nevertheless, the point I am trying to make is that millions in investments made last year will in a long run translate into assets and entrepreneurs will rip benefit. Operators should get creative and market infrastructures build for and around the 2010 FIFA Work Cup. There has been fear that built world class stadium stand as white elephant due to management/maintenance cost. And it’s unfortunate that marketings of Project like Rea Vaya (http://www.reavaya.org.za/ ) have gone to sleep soon as the event was over.

Initiative such as which produced Bono’s U2 mega concert into the Soccer City has to be encouraged until South Africa hosts another major event. Who knows? With the unpredictable Africa, turmoil such in Libya if they have to happen in Gabon or Equatorial Guinea, South Africa will be hosting the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations again.

First nativity story

2011-01-22T21:06:00.006+01:00

I wonder how I would react when the time to be born my first daughter arrives. I have heard that some jumped the wall out of panic though they had the gate remote…

My one-day story starts from 1am on 18 January 2011 when I was awaken by my wife: ‘babs – I think my water is breaking’. From there on, started a day which seemed will never end.

Twenty minutes later; I was in the hospital waiting room. Night shift nurses busy in their offices, I was left with 26 empty chairs, no Tv, nobody to talk to just a hope that my wife would give me a call to come over once emergency procedures were over.

So lonely, yet so happy to end nine months of patience and ‘lost in mind’ at the idea to becoming a dad.

I am checking my watch; I must be there in the delivery room when my girl arrives…
Twelve hours later, I was still at hospital, up and down, calling and smsing my wife in the maternity hall. She was in huge pain – more than we imagine. I became so stressed but I try keep my hope thinking that her being at this mother and child specialist’s hospital would avoid us biter surprises.

Anyway, at 3pm, I decided to go back home and comeback later. As going, I found myself leaving the hospital behind seven “Sisi” with no idea that I was going to be part of an interesting ride back home.

After the security guard checked my bag, I realised that none of them entered the taxi. Why? Because the back seat was empty. For those of you who never use public transport in Joburg, a standard taxi has 5 long seats to carry 13 passengers. But the inconvenience is that the back seat squeezes 4 people no-matter their size and shape. So, seeing those “Sisi” outside meant that I was candidate for the unwanted seat…eish. I played gentleman of cause, Kamikaze I should say…to be squashed by three hundreds pounds of “African shapes and curves”. Already two minutes in that seat, I could not feel my laps.

Soon as the taxi was in motion, something interesting started…corporate gossip! Free-Good-gossip I would say. That helped me think about other things than just the woman I love that is in pain.

Squeezed but so lucky though to seat just close to the main gossiper. Beautiful, strong and funny woman - my right neighbor hijacked the taxi. She got everyone attention and laughter with her jokes. These are situations that you would never experience alone in your own car…really free comedy.

In fact, I could not understand everything but could grasp the funniest parts;…morata, flying hormones, don’t taste my knowledge, we are into trouble… I realised that these seven Sisi in medical uniform were soon to become doctors and that they have been attending a workshop at the hospital I spent my night at. One thing for sure, they hated their supervisors as she was giving them hard time.

As unforgettable as was this nativity day, the contagious laugh in the taxi made everyone smiling. It was raining in Joburg and I had to go home, fix the house left in limbo of ‘water break’s’ panic. By the time I reach home, I have collected my pieces…I was in Adam’s mood. Going stronger, I realised that for these Sisi, the supervisor was just a step on their way to a bigger achievement. From there on, I remember stories I read and heard about how husbands panic when labour time nocks. I was doing no so bad – the gossip and laughter was a positive fate.

Yet, Daddy-to-become I still to make my mind – should or should her not accept C-section after 11 hours into contractions.

Thanks to technology, not only online forum provided us with so much step-by-step knowledge (insight) on pregnancy, also the use of mobile phone in maternity allowed me as talking to my wife to experience the screenings of women in contraction for the first time. I should say, out of what I listened; labour must be a painful experience. That explains why some of us love our mum so deeply. Women deserve respect and I love my wife even more! I told a friend soon after.

Back at hospital an hour later, I have been told that she was no more in the same hall. Wondering what happened, I went up and down to check lists of newly deliveries. At the moment a black woman in the forties (Her Dr) asked me; is Mariah George your wife? It took seconds for me to say ‘YES’. I knew that would mean - yes to ‘daddihood’. She has done great and you have a baby girl, she said.

From that instant until two days after, I did not know how to feel or react. Inside I was excited but overwhelmed at the same time with responsibilities now over my shoulder with this pretty, quiet human being. From the third day when I change my first nappy, I realised the bond that has started between her and myself. I suddenly fall in love with her…

While my crush on her still getting stronger, Today, I took time out to read comments, wishes and reactions from friends and families. So touched by everyone of them. It’s great to have lovely friends.

What have I learnt from my first nativity day? First of all, the joy that comes with becoming a daddy for the first time cannot be compared to how many sleepless night that may follow. Looking into my daughter “BLISS” innocent eyes and feel her trust is just osmosis. Secondly, if you want to live longer, you must learn to look at the good side of things. We chose to ignore lines that warn us about newborn hustles and sleepless nights. I remember being told, University studies are so hard, being married is so difficult life, pregnancy is a nightmare… and we have been through all of them.

So, life goes on. New experiences come with new challenges and new challenges brew further joy.

In God we trust.

Hahaha…please allow to say: Being single sucks…

I wish you find someone that you love. Life is about sharing.

Mucha!!!

Congolese People in love with One South African Woman

2011-01-05T12:21:00.011+01:00

‘…not a polyandry talk but our deep appreciation’ says FOCAS Executive Director, Serge Mubuilu.

Yesterday, the Congolese community led by the Forum of the Congolese Organizations in South Africa (FOCAS) walked the streets of Yeoville to raise awareness about prejudice and violation of Human Rights perpetrated by militia and neighbouring countries’ armies in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and used the occasion to praise the Judge Navanethem Pillay’s Mapping Report which clearly indicates that DRC’s neighbours are extremely implicated in destabilising the East Congo.

Personally, I would wish that this be the starting of a new era of public awareness and truth about the situation in the Eastern DRC where violations of Human Rights have been so severe than in any other region in the world. Despite independent reports arguing that there has been bigger genocide in Eastern DRC than that of Tutsi in Rwanda - nobody really cares?

It is not a secret that geopolitics and greediness of multinationals are pulling strings in the situation in DRC and International media agencies, international organisations on Human Rights and the Africa Union have been all passive to atrocities happening at date in what they call ‘the forgotten war’.

I have no doubt that the deep hope of poor dispersed, killed or enslaved young men, women and children in the East is to see more alignment under Pillay’s courage foot-prints.

May be the time has arrived to galvanise the whole Congolese civil society in perspective of presidential election next year. May be this is the time to take action and support those who dare to speak and expose the truth.

A woman gave us Jesus…a woman may be showing us the way to courage.

Here FOCAS Press Release:
All the Congolese People in love with One South African woman

On the 4th of January, Congolese people remember those of them who lost their lives for independence which should have triggered the advent of an economic justice different from the colonial economy of exploitation which caused the death of about Eight millions Congolese. After 50 year of independence, the Martyrs’ day was a double event that added on the commemoration of the martyrs of independence all the martyrs of Justice and victims of Human Rights violence, (Patrice Emery Lumumba, Floribert TShebeya,…,) atrocities, massacres and Genocide of the Congolese people that has happened in the country since 1993 up to date .

Many Congolese and other Congo friends joined the barefoot march convened by the Forum of the Congolese Organizations in South Africa (FOCAS) along Rocky Street in Yeoville to commemorate the double event and demand Justice.

Mr. Serge Mubilulu, the Executive Director of the Forum indicated that the barefoot march was organized to protest against genocide that is ongoing in their country and to demand the trial of perpetrators. We are determined to claim Justice for Congolese people and we want the all world to be aware of the genocide that happened in the DRC and therefore be actively involved in the justice process in the DRC, he said. We all love Judge Navanethem Pillay and thank our fellow African sister, a South African Mama who fought apartheid, for resisting different pressures from our enemies and publishing the UN mapping report that has laid an unyielding foundation of the justice process in the DRC, he added.

In fact, last year in August French media(Le Monde) published a draft of the UN mapping report which accused Rwanda of committing genocide in the DRC and many neighboring countries’ armies, rebel groups and individuals in the DRC of perpetrating grave human rights violations and massacres in the DRC.

Later, in October last year, after many pressures from Rwanda and Kagame’s friends, the final report was published with changes uttering that crimes were committed and if investigated by an appropriate court, those massacres could be tantamount to Genocide.

Taking that report as a strategic instrument of struggle for justice, the Congolese people are grateful to the South African woman who published it.

Mr. Bakengeshi Twendele, the Executive Secretary of FOCAS revealed that arrangements are on track to award human rights defender prize to Navanethem Pillay the South African woman loved by all the Congolese.--//

Pillay's act may be a drop in ocean but joining positive action from each individual Congolese or non Congolese wanting to see change in Eastern DRC will make the differnce. It is sad though that FOCAS website is not operational. Hopefully they will get it back on track to lead those who care.

Skip The Medium - Do it for yourself

2010-11-02T09:02:00.006+01:00

Few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to talk about citizen journalism at the 4th Gender and Media summit in Johannesburg. That was an interesting opportunity to interact with Southern African journalists and media organisations attending the event.

Gender violence and women abuse are among big issues affecting women in Africa. Cultural background and socio-economic policies have not made it easy for women to raise their voices. In most of the cases, politically bias and socially unprogressive, traditional media in the southern region keeps its doors closed to claims and stories on gender activism.

Having experienced the impact with the Citizen Journalism in Africa, project I had coordinated, my presence at the summit aimed at emphasising on the need for women rights activist to use alternative media. In other words, ‘report what you have seen - say it yourself – write it yourself’ using free tools with modern technology.

Citizen journalism is among the current buzzwords in the media industry. The advent of the internet and its byproducts like blogs and similar channels provided for this phenomenon – the public serving as news sources.

It is important that human rights activists in the region and citizens in general catch the train of new media revolution. National broadcasters in southern Africa do no more own the news or shouldn’t. Websites, mobile phones and online podcasting can serve efficiently freedom of expression and lead the region to a long term democracy and stop human rights violations.

Here what Sandra Mandizvidza wrote about my presentation:

The rise of citizen journalism

Gone are the days when reporting news was the preserve of an elite circle of journalists: they have been replaced by a new animal, the citizen journalist.

The latter has the advantage of being at the right place at the right time and is able to cover news that would otherwise go unreported.

These untrained journalists are taking photographs and filing reports on events which once would have been the sole preserve of our media outlets.

They help online news sites deliver news faster by submitting text, pictures or even videos of events as they happen. The product of such news gathering and reporting is then called user-generated content (UGC).

The idea behind the introduction of it was to encourage people without professional journalism training to use modern technology like cell phones and internet to help traditional journalists. These reporters are expected to report first-hand information of the situation on the ground.

Large organisations such as the BBC and CNN have decided to embrace rather than fight the rise of citizen journalism. CNN has even launched "iReport", where anyone can blog or post videos about news.

Adam Mukendi, the project coordinator for Citizen Journalism Africa (CJA), said citizen journalists are an important tool in the journalism fraternity as they write stories and take pictures which the traditional journalist would have missed.

Mukendi, who runs a website for citizen journalists, said six countries came together to form a website for these untrained reporters. The objective of the website is to increase the outreach in local media of balanced, objective and informative reporting on the situation of targeted marginalised groups, including women.

Mukendi said in order for citizen journalists to express themselves and to report on events happening in their community, they are provided with cameras and videos to do their work. They are also trained how to use equipment.

"A number of people have benefited from the website especially on the use of social media and mobile technology," said Mukendi. "Despite a few challenges participants have been able to pass on and sustain the acquired knowledge back into their local organisation and today the CJA community is a vibrant group of proactive citizens and practitioners in Digital media."

The website has a platform for people to write blogs, tout events, post pictures and videos. It is put out in both English and Portuguese.

Though citizen journalism is quickly gaining popularity there are both advantages and dangers of using content from citizen journalists.

Some of the advantages include having a chance for newspapers to find out issues about the people in the area. Journalists don't have eyes everywhere so having citizen reporters will give a chance to find out what's happening. Members of the public can witness police brutality and may snap a digital photo and post to for broadcasting.

Arthur Mwansa, a journalist from Zambia, said: "Editors need to be careful they should check and recheck again the content from Citizen Journalists as they might give false information."

And careful they will have to be, because as technology becomes easier to use and less expensive, it seems the citizen journalist is here to stay.

Technology for Africa

2010-08-23T11:00:00.000+01:00

Tech4Africa is a web and emerging technology conference, committed to bringing global perspective to the African context. This platform would like to play a role in igniting the talent and skill of a generation of Africans in reach of mobile phone and global market. Founder of Tech4Africa, Gareth Knight, maintains that, “Africans can help themselves and they are just as smart and motivated as anyone else.”

Participants at the 2010 tech4Africa conference, which was held from 12-13 August 2010 in Johannesburg, had the privilege to listen to a lineup of experienced speakers, including Andy Budd from Clearleft, Apple’s Alex Hunter and Erin Caton, Joe Stump from SimpleGeo, Jonathan Snook from Yahoo! and Dustin Diaz from Twitter, who have been working on digital projects and online platforms in the past decades.

With the burgeoning mobile market, the impact of social media, cheaper hardware and improved bandwidth, Africa has the opportunity now to participate on the global stage. Initiatives usch as Mini-Seedcamp at 2010 Tech4Africa gives opportunities to a new generation of African developers and entrepreneurs to connect with international networks of company builders, investors and product experts.

Attendants at this year's conference had a choice between business classes (panel discussions with a strategic approach on subjects like mobile market, Internet connectivity, social media and cloud computing) and technical class where presentations were purely technical. They showcased and shared experience in relation to their products - iPhone applications, Java scripts, Crowdmapping, Js interfaces and mobile payments.

Overall, my highlight of the conference was an inspirational presentation by Leila Janah, the founder and CEO of Samasource, a social business that connect over 800 women, youth and refugees living in poverty to digital work. As the audience stood and applauded Janah’s emotional speech taking us through her life and the past ten years, we all realised how skills and experience could be applied to great effect in the African context.

Basically, this organisation leverage technology to create jobs for millions in poverty. They outsource major international companies research with cheaper field work services and also do the tagging of millions of pictures for Flickr, Web Picassa and Google images.

Taking us through her stories during her presentation, Janah’s (@leila_c) had a life changing experience when she got involved in volunteer work within one poor community in Ghana. She saw the need and provided what she calls ‘virtual factory, online jobs for poor Ghanaian teenagers who were asking her for money’. “Internet is a platform for global meritocracy. The biggest thread to poverty alleviation is lack of opportunity”, she maintains.

Other moments:

* Joe Stump (@joestump), He talked about the benefit of partitioning, server catching and Mytown on iPhone. But more interesting was is experience as Digg’s Lead Architect. I understood that an idea can be genius but the execution matters.
* Arthur Goldstuck (@art2gee); Impressive facilitation and roundup of the panel discussion entitled ’ What you need to know about the mobile market’. To recall the moment, one pessimist panelists became arrogant in the discussion that the audience may have started to lose the point. Weighting in debate with his experience on Internet, mobile and business, Goldstuck was able to give the audience an outlook on the future with mobile market in Africa. Putting things into perspective, I do believe that such division in views demonstrates just how complex the adaptation of adequate technology in Africa is if, Africans overlook themselves.
* Generally, a fair debate on social web was held. I should say that having attended the SANGONeT ‘Social media for NGOs’in 2009 (#Sango09), Tech4africa’s discussions on what this means for business and consumers was nothing new for me. The conclusion still: No one size fits all. And knowing your audience is key for success in social networking.
* Panel Discussion: Are we fundable? I attended this session and learnt that South African funding organisations receive hundred of online applications per day. However, only a dozen can be shortlist because 80 percent of the business plans lack consistency and clear vision. Twitting on the subject I recommend the 2010 SANGONeT’s ’Fundraising in the Digital world‘Conference (#SANGO10) . Register now and join hundreds of organisations willing to learn everything about online fundraising.

The 2010 tech4Africa conference was a very good initiative. Thanks to Tech4Africa, I have no doubt that it is through exposure to the collective ’global' experience that Africa will gain and contribute in the digital world.

Click here for more information about the 2010 Tech4Africa.

I Feel it - Unsatisfied!

2010-06-08T11:06:00.003+01:00

Now that millions of people and news agencies are focused on the FIFA World Cup in South Africa, I took time to reflect on what this world cup means for me and how I should see opportunities in years to come.

Nowadays in my thirties, I do recall how we use to watch World Cup matches at home. Mum and my two sisters were fairly summoned by my dad to stay in the kitchen while the boys will be watching television. I remember how many times my mum use to rush to the living room and tell my dad that he was screaming and that we may inconvenience the neighbour. Of cause, my dad will send her back to the kitchen before she comeback again with love. The fact is that the flair and passion for football were in the house. The boys were having nice time.

Having left my country six years ago, I have never dreamed that I would be witness of this tournament in the country of my destination, South Africa. At time the country won the BID until all stadium completed; that was a lesson. We heard hard comments about the lack of ability of Africa and South Africa especially to hold such mega tournament until resilience took over and today, wherever you are in this country you can feel and see the soccer vibe – amazing.

Two days before the kick-off, football lover, I am supposed to be in the vibe. Instead, seating in my office reflecting on the FIFA event, I feel unsatisfied. Unsatisfied of where I am in life, how much I have achieved and how much I am capable but still struggling to find my way.

It is a fact that living in a foreign country is never easy. Naturally, sometimes you get to feel reminded that you don’t belong here and intellectually discounted when you’re apparently originated from Africa’s worst French speaking mismanaged and stateless countries. Nevertheless, alike the story behind South Africa’s FIFA 2010, determination and resilience should overcome challenges and prove ones’ cynic wrong.
So, where - to from here?

I don’t really know. May be it is because I love action, exciting projects and challenges, things that my work load these days do not allow me. I love people and interaction - “street Smart”.

I never lose hope. Life has cycles; I might be entering a new one. It is just a bad feeling to be unsatisfied and can’t seem to know where to looking up to. Almost like living without a goal. I suppose in your thirties one should have goals and strategies clearly defined…Isn’t it? - C’est la vie; Even God prefers to leave unanswered questions on our ways no matter hard we can pray.

Nonetheless, to feel how I feel is one thing I am happy with. The conscience to asking questions to myself about what I want and how much I want to achieve. The conscience to taking lessons behind this African first World Cup and transpose them onto my personal life.

Africa is seen as the poorest of all continents with the worst of geopolitics. Yet, Africa – South Africa will deliver the best of FIFA World Cup ever.

Let our hard work silences negative facts, and our resilience lead us to our best

Feel it…it is here

Les linges sales se lavent en famille (Family affairs are solved under closed-doors)

2010-05-12T16:02:00.002+01:00

This is a preferred “say” used in French speaking countries as to maintain that; it is wise to solve family differences in secret.

It is a natural instinct that human strives to give a better impression to outsiders. African culture common sense leads us to arranging our space, wearing clean clothes and portraying at best our social belonging whenever we are receiving guests.

With the FIFA 2010 World Cup, South Africa has the opportunity to show case to the world what it has to offer from its touristic attractions to economic and infrastructural achievements. This is a golden change to write off pessimistic comments about this country readiness to stand among first class countries, world best destination says experts.

While I do understand that people in this country have right to a decent live and fair income, with the FIFA 2010 World Cup billions of Rand have been invested in infrastructure that the South African government is under huge pressure to deliver. Unfortunately, since last year on a national level, almost every month, public servants exercise tremendous pressure on the ANC government asking between 7 and 16% percent salary raise despite a recovering economy due to the global economic meltdown.

Taking in consideration the time frame before the kick off of the world biggest event, I have the impression that the government has no choice than taking memorandum, accept trade unions demand and give unrealistic promises just to avoid tumults during the World cup.

Indeed, It seems for me that ministries are giving up to pressure from trade unions. After municipal workers get what they wanted after splashing bin in many cities, now train commuters, petrol station owner and motorists may pay high price due to another national strike by transporters and public office workers. Still, many other strikes are looming such as that of taxi associations.

I wonder who bluffs who?

Once the world cup is over, we will all realise that many of these promises are just unrealisable.

The truth is, if successfully organised, the country will be better off for years to come and public servants (South Africans) at first place.

So, let’s wake up! Is this really the time to toy-toy when guests start arriving in the country? Which impression will South Africans give to the world? Do we really want to see the South African police charging dancing mobs on television worldwide?

At this time, I would call for more patriotism than self interest

Bad Charisma

2010-03-17T08:32:00.001+01:00

Last year, Libyan President Muammar Ghadaffi called for Switzerland to be abolished and for its land to be divided between Italy, Germany and France...Funny.

Yesterday he said:Divide Nigeria in two nations to end Muslim and Christian killings. I am concerned with his diplomacy for the Africa Union...is this the way to go???

My reading of the situation

2010-03-17T08:27:00.002+01:00

Girls less likely than boys to be freed from DR Congo’s ranks of child soldiers – UN

12 February 2010 –Despite efforts to end the use of child soldiers in the war-torn east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), youngsters are still being recruited within the ranks of both the rebels and the national army, with girls at particular risk of becoming sex slaves and less likely to be released, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) said.

Well, this is a sad reality. However, as a Congolese, I am always chocked but such allegations which never include the Rwandan army as lead by Kagame. Since the genocide, the Tutsi army and it secret militia as always been considered clean of any allegation. Why Tutsi are always considered as victims?

Their strong lobby and tight with the US always put things in their favor. If you asked populations at the East of DRC they will tell you that all armies (DRC and Rwanda) as well as militia do commit rape, and recruite child soldiers.

I would urge that task-teams reports on the situations at the East of DRC start pointing finger to the right people. The situation at the East of DRC has move form the quest of power by Congolese rebellion to Tutsi and Hutu militia attack and extermination. I am worried that the international community action is very slow and complaisant with the actual Rwandan regime which uses the force of a law that it has created to punish and jail all Hutu suspected of Genocide. While I will always condemn human killing such as Genocide, at the same time, after all these years of trials and imprisonment of Hutu citizen of Rwanda, I strongly believe that time has come that Rwandan government start moving into a way of reconciliation with Hutu community. Unfortunately, I don't see this happening soon. With the support of the US and lately France, I see Kagame becoming very arrogant.

Anyway, it will happen again. Hutu and Tutsi rivalry started years ago. Now Tutsi are on power, putting in prison as much Hutu as they can. Actually innocent of thousand of Hutu families can't dare going back in their countries, stuck in impoverished life in DRC, Burundi, Central African Republic and Tanzania...etc.

In all of this, the fragile DR Congo with all its mineral resources has become a weak target for all belligerents and multinationals.

I personally believe that if we don't work for reconciliation and inclusion in the region, history will repeat itself again. Soon as Hutu access power in Burundi, Tutsi in Rwanda will be next and the international community won't do much this time again as much as Hutu as well guaranty the safety of certain foreign investments in the region. That is how the story is written in the region....

I am saddened by victims of this forgotten war. Congolese families, raped men and women who live in tents for more then 5 years with nothing for them self then just what to cover their body and international food aid. Surely, some people don't want this war to end and key players may not be those we often point fingers to.

What to say, DR Congo has been a country of hospitality for all immigrant in the region. Those who are living in tent today for generation were sheltering for those who are keeping them in misery. One can ask - why they have never been such refugee camps at East DR Congo even when all neighbors push out millions of refugees. The answer is simple. It because Congolese families showed Ubuntu and took charge.
I grew up studying with Tutsi and Hutu....but today I wonder if there is one Tutsi in Congolese schools. What I want to say is that, for most of Congolese, Tutsi regime in Rwanda is pulling strings at the East. If it doesn't amend itself, in case history repeat itself, I am persuaded that Tutsi won't be welcome again in DR Congo.

Nonetheless, I do agree that all actors in the Eastern DRC war are to be condemned including the Congolese army and government in legitimate-defense which actions are to be condemned.

As I read it from a book title: "c'est notre tour de manger"..meaning "it's our turn to eat", that's how can be qualified the situation in the region. Sadly this behavior is of a short memory. DR Congo will be stable one day but Rwanda will never be until we stop being bias. Commission of truth and reconciliation alike South Africa is the way to go.

We all know which country has always been a problem in the region...today its president is praised for his achievements to the expense of millions deaths consequence of his army support to successive Congolese rebellion while we keep an eye closed on children and mineral exploitation in DRC which apparently feeds the stability of the Rwandan economy. Of cause, no one want to say that loudly....

For the sake of my relatives at the East of the Congo, I want just peace. Enough of these white elephant UN reports. Population need action and willingness to stop those who are pulling strings...

To say the truth...Congolese are peaceful people who want just to have good time in life. They can't do war but some can and like killing. Also shame to our greedy leaders....

It sounds like another joke!

2010-01-07T09:45:00.000+01:00

President Obama wins the Nobel Prize for peace and President Kagame of Rwanda listed by Time Magazine and Financial Times http://tinyurl.com/yb2lhbr among 50’s most influent people in the planet.

Nationally, Yes They Can! But internationally we still wait for results of their pretended actions.

For the fact, President Kagame as well as President Kabila’s army has been implicated by many reports in the ongoing rape of women and men in the Eastern Democratic republic of Congo. And Kagame’s support to rebels especially General Nkunda has destabilised the great lake region causing millions of displaced and casualties. This situation has led to illegal trafficking and exploitation of minerals from the Eastern of the DR Congo by its neighbouring countries.

As Africans, we should all work for a collective peace and prosperity. Peace in one country will still fragile until neighbours are stable…let learn all from history.

So, Citizen of the world…I will disapprove this time again recognition from a global publication

Merry Christmas and happy new year

2009-12-24T18:31:00.002+01:00

To all of you I present my best wishes for 2010 and a wonderful christmas.
Few days and we will enter 2010 with all our expections

Sangonet conference' 09: Social Media for NGOs Conference

2009-10-07T10:08:00.001+01:00

My Countdown Countdown

Oh! the police

2009-07-27T09:38:00.004+01:00

Prominent Black professor arrested for entering own home while Black - USA.
Apparently a black men still the prime suspect…whenever one sees crime.

Harvard scholar Henry Louis Gates Jr., director of the W.E.B. DuBois Institute for African and African American Studies, was recently arrested at his own home in Cambridge, Mass. when a neighbor called the cops, presuming him and the also-not-white man he was with to be burglars.
It is a worth call that the police respond to such call of presumed robbery. But I find it shocking when Henry, the house’s owner exhibits his identity and ask questions, these policemen refused to answer him. I doubt that they could do that if it was a person of another skin colour? Read more about the story here
http://www.boingboing.net/2009/07/21/prominent-black-prof.html

Racism still a big issue. If such case happens in the United State of America, the land of freedom, situation in other countries is even worst.
For example, living in South Africa since 2003, I have never been surprised to see that police patrols check most of the time if not always, only black-colour-skin people IDs. Why not check those of white, thousand of expatriates coming from overseas who walk the street as if they were in their own country and continent?
To make myself clear, I am not denying here the right to citizenship to white born in Africa. Instead, I have realised that there are many white foreigner who are illegal in this country but yet no one have ever verified their ID and passport. Ironically, a white friend uses to drive without his driver license for months. Surely he knows that he won’t be stopped and asked by metro police… Another black South African friend even said that he prefer to deal with a male white policeman then a black one. Why? Some male black policemen are rude toward fellow black but very kind to white persons. A matter of self-esteem…such people should not being qualified to exercise public services and human rights enforcement.

It is clear; there is double standard from some law enforcing agents in USA as well as South Africa.
I was outraged to hear Henry’s story as should be anyone who stands for human justice.
Let all stand and react against such discriminating behaviors whenever we see them happening!

Watch the first reaction of President Obama in this video post on Youtube.com
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=83GL7RUaC_c

A cousin in the White House

2008-11-05T12:14:00.000+01:00

Hey! Overwhelming joy.

What matter the most for me is the symbolism of this victory. First for black Americans and secondly for the USA image (dream country). Black Americans votes alone wouldn't be enough to obtain this victory. This is a sign of a new colour blind patriotism in USA. Someone had A DREAM!!!
I remembered this morning about so many movies I've watched about Black American struggles.-
I remember the vibe of hope and perseverance I always sang in negro-spiritual at church and in my lovely choir;-
I remembered about the history of Black families along Mississippi river I've watch few weeks ago and
I remembered to send an sms to a close girl friend of mine from Alabama when Obama finished his acceptance speech this morning. She responded "Thanks Adam! I cried my hardest on this unimaginable day."

I had tears and not ashamed to confess that I cried. I see in what happening today the dream of slaves, activists and forefather becoming truth. So touched seeing Jessie Jackson and Oprah on tears -really this means alot to them.

So far, the credit of this election for me is that white American have shown the world that they refuse to juge based on the colour of candidates; Americans youth have realised that from now on, they have a say in American politics; and more unimaginable, a young black American in Harlem can realise today that anything is possible.

I hope this helps us all. At work place, relationship and career wise. Let not juge by the colour of skin.

Much love

A social life...to detox from Joburg stress

2008-07-18T15:16:00.001+01:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

El Canto....my other life with music

2008-07-18T15:15:00.002+01:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Almost Got It

2008-02-18T14:28:00.002+01:00

After a long silence radio which wasn’t Eskom fault, I still cannot say that I am now back on the blogosphere. Really, I don’t know what tomorrow will bring on my desk and how my schedule will acclimate.
Nevertheless, blogging is not a matter of six paragraphs and more; two phrases are enough to keep you present in your e-community chat. Hoof! At least, I got this Roy B. lesson.
So; what did I miss? Read my next post.

The 419 man

2007-10-19T13:01:00.001+01:00

Rey Mysterio is the 619, Nelson Mandela got his 46664 and the Bible tells us about the 666 beast’s number or Lucifer in person. But who is the 419?

With new technologies, frauds and scams have become daily occupation for computer genius and those who can use at least their creative intelligence. In order to apprehend those who infringe laws and unveiled scams in time; the Nigerian police uses the number code 419 to qualify people involved in scam via internet.

Personally, when I can’t check my mails at Wits I do it in my suburb area Rosettenville and can then realise how people around the world are harassed through web mails.
When you and I are busy with our daily work, there are people somewhere in cybercafé also devoted to a dirty job of sending out mails in call for compassion. Most of them are Nigerian. Their prayer is to have your ears and eyes so that they reach your heart and empty your wallet. These guys are very good in persuasion. I often sat next to them but I never know that they were 419. But, always wondering what they were doing in cybercafé day-long, I have noticed that they use web engines technically called “extractors” to collect your and my e-mail address. It’s sad to see that there are people who have chosen as job to trap vulnerable innocents and rob their savings days after days. For my concern I have restrained my action on the internet. I don’t open spam; I don’t read forwarded messages and don’t subscribe to activities such as dating on line. Trust me, this people are very good. Specialists say that due to high rate of unemployment in their country, most of them are Nigerian, very clever and intelligent people. Therefore, you shouldn’t wait to be victim before you take actions.

I would remind you that your eyes are doors to your heart and your ears windows to your soul. Both heart and soul are masters over your wallet. Believe me; if you give them a chance, they wont let it down till they make you become a Mugu. Good luck

Now or ever...

2007-10-16T15:09:00.000+01:00

Dissuasion or persuasion, President Kabila has lost sight.

I am shocked since Joseph kabila the new DRC elected president gave an ultimatum of seven days to General Kunda, rebel renegade who threaten the east of DRC since 2005. I think it’s irrational to think that non coercive measures would have effect on someone who gains from war. I am upset to see that Kabila still reading the International Right literally.
An historical background reveals that the eastern Congolese crisis is among complex conflicts on the International scene. This is due to the fact that the issue of citizenship in DRC especially at the east with ethnics such as Tutsi and Bania Mulenge originated from neighbourhood countries, is not an easy task. To make thing worse, even both; President Kabila and Kunda’s citizenship have been questioned by most Congolese politics as both are suspected to belonging to the ethnic Tutsi of Rwanda. Nevertheless, this is not my focus.

My point is that Kunda has been defying the democratic process in DRC since all belligerents in Congolese civil war were in negotiation talk. Last week he decided to attack the North-east of the Kivu province, pushing thousands of population out of their town. Unfortunately for him things have changed. It’s well-known that Kunda’s hope lays on Rwanda’s unofficial military support which he did not have at least till yesterday.
The Congolese National army counterattacked last weekend and it seems that more and more rebels are killed or disarm to join the national force. Consequently, Kunda is no more arrogant.

Therefore, personally I think that this is an opportunity for Kabila and his generals to extend an effective territorial sovereignty by writing of this rebellion. By saying so I may look less humanitarian but we all know that there is International Right on one hand and International Fact on the other. Time has come when the fear you generate talks louder then words you proclaim. It is a fact that on the international scene those who have dissuasive force (nuclear or technical) are not challenged. We all know I suppose, why the USA cannot attack the Republic of Nord Korea or Iran unilaterally as they did in Iraq?
Nowadays the principle is this: do quickly what you can to gain respect and establish your self before the UN Security Counsel or U.S secret agencies get you on the spot.

A Global Warning

2007-08-16T14:03:00.000+01:00

Everything has become unstable. Apparently the human kind living on earth still confident on his modern, upgraded technologies and projections.

Irresistible; -Gordon Brown got his investiture feet under water. End of July, England (UK) was under flood for one week. Weather previsions did help less as things were overpowering.

Immensurable;-This is not a crisis says the SA’s government. Thousands of Zimbabweans are crossing the border running away from Mugabe’s deadly politic. Musina is overloaded. The fact is that social welfare, health system and people’s safeness will soon face this storm. Mbeki never planned that uncle Bob would become a delay bomb.

Unpredictable; - Baghdad City (IRAK) brings more and more to our memories Stalingrad during the First World War. Blasts happen anytime-anywhere and buildings are ruined. US-Marines show inefficiencies and things have turned wrong. Unwillingly, Bush may have to recall his troops if the senate decides so in coming days. Then what will happen is that Iraqis will be left to the mercy of extremists of both sides.

Irremediable; - All green pasture looked white during the month of June in Lesotho. Everything has frozen and now the draught season stands a shortage of maize.

Ineluctably, a concerted action will always be needed in order to address environmental, socio-economic or political issues. Despite modern technologies, military strategies and political calculations things are overwhelming us. It is with our disappointment that there still adepts of solo galloping. As example, E-TV’s 7pm news’ open-line on the 2nd of August attested that 65% of seven thousand people who expressed their views called for no government action in favor of illegal ZIM immigrants. Shame! We are still not getting it right.

Wits Choir guest of the King of Bafokeng

2007-07-23T12:49:00.000+01:00

Up to date…

Since 1994, the Wits Choir is under the direction of Dalene Hoogenhoot, one of South African best choir conductors. The choir has traveled a lot and has always brought back in the country items from its culture-exchange. So far, the Choir as traveled to Argentina, Kenya, Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho and last December in Szech Republic. Its repertoire is much diversified. The Choir performs traditional, classic, secular and spiritual songs in languages such as English, French, Spanish, Swahili, Latin, Xhosa, Zulu, Tswana, Afrikaans, Venda, Sutu and many others. Three words which may define the best this choir are; Unique, Melodious and Energetic. Apparently, one of its strength should be its multiculturalism and its racial embracement. The color of skin doesn’t matter in the choir. White, black, colored, Asians, and Africans constitute its members. Musically, this is one of the best choirs in the country. The Choir performs in academic meetings, international conferences, birthdays, weddings, funerals and all kind of functions. Wherever this choir goes, it portrays and reflects what should be the new multiracial South Africa.

2007-07-23T12:47:00.000+01:00

Wits Choir connected...

The Royale Bafokeng is one of the wealthiest tribe in the country. Most African presidents in visit in this country have paid visit to the Bafokeng territory as to acknowledge its success in social corporate responsibility enforcement toward mining companies. The Bafokeng territory is a large wild space with small towns and mining plants. Wherever you are you can see efforts to up lift local communities. Many projects are under way but educational-projects seem to have taken priorities on the municipality agenda. Recently, the King of Bafokeng and his commitee has acquires the service of Mr Ian McLachlan who has worked for many years as headmaster of Saint Stithians Boy’s college (one of leading boys school in Gauten). Commissioned by the King, Mr. Ian McLachlan has designed a project in improvement of education of something like ninety schools under his supervision. For this cause, a group of experienced teachers has resigned from Saint Stithians and moved to Rustenburg. It’s in this perspective that Wits Choir have been contacted to give its support.

2007-07-23T12:43:00.000+01:00

Wits Choir's Journey in Bafokeng territory...

We arrived at Bakubung Lodge a five start***** hotel (King’s guests-lodge) at 6pm on Monday after leaving Joburg at 3pm. We have been advice by the tour committee that the King wanted an exceptional treatment for us and that wasn’t a joke.
Reaching the main gate of Bakubung lodge we realized that this was not the same type of lodges we saw along our road. From the gate to the reception is 200meters of a zigzag way up the mountain. Once up, we had a fantastic panoramic view with nothing in the surrounding then mountains and animals in park. This lodge has its own tour 4X4 cars, its own security guard and all services required in such circumstance. Once in our beds-rooms, we all have been amazed about its glamorous inside. Here residents have high design beds, furnishers and bathroom. They have DSTV on flat screen, fridge, electronic safe and optional local and international calls. Each bedroom has a balcony which leads to a luminous swimming pool, Jacuzzi and bar-pool table. The lodge is surrounded by parks. Here birds and monkey usually feel free to pay you a visit in case you leave your door open.
It’s obvious that we have been told that breakfasts and dinners were free. Those among us who like food got lost as a 30meters table has been dressed every morning and night with strange and healthy food. Everything was of an exceptional quality at which extend that we felt a morale obligation to ask for I much it would cost us if we should come back with friends and girlfriends. The answer we heard just made us laugh and stopped straight our hopes. The price of one night during the week for a single bedroom is 1850 R and 2650 R for bedroom with two beds. Choir members have traveled a lot but no one could ever afford such high price accommodations. Shocked, we realised why few people we met there were either old-white couple, Japanese or Chinese businessman.

2007-07-23T12:22:00.000+01:00

Wits Choir performs in Rustenburg...

On Tuesday morning we toured in three schools with the “Spoonproof” a choir from Yale University (USA) and performed together a night concert at the Civic Theater of Rustenburg. We shared value time with them before they left for Cap town the following day while we were on road for a solo tour in three more schools. We have enjoyed each performance. We in Wits Choir believe that we have something special that can give hope and transform lives. Therefore, before children, parents or officials, the choir still gives its best.
The cleavage between white and black is still strong in Rustenburg city. As one can imagine, one of Wits Choir aims when going there was to break barriers and show off how should look the new South Africa. As usually, in such environment we are used to defiant look but once we sing one or two items we can then start to see some facial smiles. Our ending is always the same as we finish our performance with a non-stop applaud of the audience as people look so amazed.
Indeed, singing some items in Tswana, English and Afrikaans did open to us people’s heart in Bafokeng. As at the end of each performance we got surrounded by parents, teachers and scholars who wanted just to present their appreciation. People we don’t know stop us in our way just to tell us that we do quality work. This is inevitably one of the reasons which stick each and every one of us to this choir; this feeling to have impacted on someone’s life.
Wits Choir still have more to offer and finding an efficient producer is our main objective this year. The University management is like telling us that it has many things to care about then a bunch of singers. But what the University doesn’t understand is that Wits Choir is one of its organisations which represent the most the Witwatersrand vision of openness. All other universities choirs are either black or white. Wits Choir is the only choir which has opted for diversity of race and culture. This is its value and its strength. Unfortunately, till now the chancellor and is committee never get it right. I am just scared that as more and more projects and institutions start finding interest in the Choir, we may change soon our name and belong to another cause.

Does he fit to Govern? Let the Populace decides

2007-07-03T10:37:00.000+01:00

Fit to Govern: the Native Intelligence of Thabo Mbeki, by Ronald Suresh Roberts has been launched at the 2nd annual Cape Town Book Fair. Since, critics still rise against this Roberts’ work.
“We have done in a short time for poor people in this country more than Hugo Chavez in Venezuela….if we don’t see it is because the publishing world want to tell us what to believe”, says Ronald S. Roberts.

During “Interface” a Sunday 19:30 SABC discussion-program, Mr. Roberts explained himself. Is this a tool for Mbeki electoral agenda; I don’t know. But I think it is questionable to see how publishers and newspapers’ editors are vigorously telling us that this book doesn’t deserve credit from public. Who gave press practitioners mandate to decide for everyone? By saying that Roberts covers more on Mbeki’s policy on HIV and ZIM instead of discussing also about the economy… isn’t that an attempt in censoring by defining the content? What about freedom of expression?
Personally, I don’t see any problem if Mbeki should find some good singers among his friends and try to fight back criticisms because even the publishing world plays drum sometimes for some hidden forces. Democracy means also that no one should dictate what to believe in.
As we are at the task of writing a book with my friends on what we have learnt out the work place training, I realise more and more how the press business worldwide is conservative. Neologism is not welcomed. I wish we stand steady once our idea is inevitably exposed to what I can call a “Professional Red-pen treatment”.

A good Mentor shouldn't Juge

2007-06-12T11:30:00.000+01:00

I would like to share my feelings through this small story without remorse because I think that I have learnt something out of it.

I wonder how many people can define precisely who is a mentor or give the real meaning of mentoring without getting confused with other concepts such as coaching and counseling. For my concern, it is not my first time to hear about this word but I should confess that I didn’t take time to try and understand what this concept is about before attending the workshop.
Last Saturday workshop on the topic ‘mentoring’ organized by the Wits Alumni and Wow 2007 was attended by entrepreneurs, professionals, academics and newly Wits’ graduated. Sitting randomly at tables, we all had to intervene in the discussion.

Among questions, the first was to define a mentor. As I said above, I did not check the real meaning of this word and had only a broadly understanding of what it means.

In my group after brainstorming ideas, we had a person who run his own business and introduced himself as a mentor. Obviously that sounded so fantastic to me as I thought that we will have more insights on our table. Then at the time to choose two key-words defining the best mentorship, the person took the lead and opted for growth and relationship.
For my part, I couldn’t understand why this ‘mentor’ prefers the word relationship to training for example. I felt obliged to ask why relation should come in second place and I did. Strangely, instead of giving me light on the concept, the person answered that it might be a problem of language. At that point I felt so misunderstood and afflicted. I had a feeling as if I was wrong by asking that question. For my concern, that was a judgment. I was judged for what I belong too and not for what I did. I took it so bad that I was disturb during all the session. I do think that because a person may not have key-words that do not mean that he’s lacking contents. I was denied of my right to growth and my right of knowledge by a person who presented himself as a mentor. Judgment it’s a stop-sign to relationship. I have learnt by the fact; that person wasn’t a good mentor at all because mentoring involves support to growth, building of self-esteem and openness for relationship.

To late or too old for circumcision

2007-06-12T09:19:00.000+01:00

Repugnant, Shameful, Noxious and
Painful -
Not suitable for person over eighteen

I am writing in regard to a question about the impact of circumcision in Aids infections asked by Bruce N. during one of our session at the WoW 2007. Responding to this question, the guest of that day based on some studies couldn’t confirm the impact of this practice concerning AIDS’ spread thorough Africa. Definitely, last week other researchers have confirmed the World Health Organization’s early report which maintained that circumcision reduces chances of contracting HIV by up to 60%. Yet although countries such as Mozambique, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Tanzania and Kenya have drawn up already plans for widespread circumcision, the South African government has done nothing to date.

Even though the WHO antenatal survey on percentage of HIV by age shows that person between 18 and 34 years old constitute the higher rated of infected, I wonder how many adult are willing to undergo this surgery. Especially in Southern Africa countries where there is a strong identity to African cultures. It is a traditional conception that circumcision takes away some of males’ sexual performances. Contrarily, in countries like DR Congo, where policy making always has to take in account the fact that 80% of population is of Christian’s belief, this practice is never questioned. Instead, it’s the fact to undergo circumcision as an adult which is considered as shameful.

Circumcision finds its origin in the Bible. Genesis 17 says that God made a covenant with Abram by what he called covenant of circumcision. Thereafter, God changed is name to Abraham as he made him a father of many nations; history shows that Israel and Palestine are among them. What is interesting is that Abram was ninety-nine years old when the Lord appeared to him and the Bible doesn’t say that Abraham did circumcise himself. The only precision for circumcision given in the Bible is that of every male of eight days old. Why to a so earlier age? May be the God of Abraham knew what he was talking about.

Those who had gone through this practice during their early age can’t suggest it to an adult for many reasons. For example, from a cultural point of view, what can think a traditional African man about his dignity if he shouldn’t wear pant, short or underwear? Beside the fact that you can’t wear anything tighter; with this surgical procedure, more you are old more you feel the pain. Just to imagine consequences and pain of an adult male’s physiologic reaction if he should bear surgery at his genital part…

Despite all efforts in countries like Kenya, rates of HIV remain high. Although circumcision alone does not prevent someone from becoming infected with HIV, it is clearly proven now that it lowers the risk of becoming infected and that it can be considered as an important HIV prevention strategy.

In medical sciences circumcision constitutes one of minors’ surgeries which need just few days for the circumcised to rehabilitate. However, people are rooted in their cultures, and this practice in countries where the worship of ancestors is high will always face resistance. This is a good way to go for future generation and today’s teenagers. But personally am little bit septic about the number of adult who would volunteer to it.

Training 12 disciples

2007-05-22T11:59:00.000+01:00

This is not a discussion on Jesus’ disciples as described in the Bible. Rather, few sentences in thanksgiving to a group of twelve attendants of the World of Work training 2007 for their inputs and contributions to my education.
Thanks first to Jean Power, Dr. Susan Van Zil and Lesley Emmanuel for this initiative. I have learned a lot from each and every one of you guys. Without using long sentences, I would like just to give some essential points which according to me have characterised each of you.
From Susan Arthur (http://susanarthur.blogspot.com/) I have learned this three facts; Keep quiet, observe and speak…is not that the Emotional Intelligence?...Thanks Sue // Choose your attitude: That is Susan Mwangi (http://susanwamwangi.blogspot.com) as she knew how to give every morning a greeting as warm as a cup of coffee // Think-a-lot; that is Maxwell (http://maxwellnyamajiwa.blogspot.com/). He digs so deep that it was difficult for me sometime to get his point…I have started to exercise myself…Thanks Maxwell // You want to talk business, speak to Beauty Katongo (http://beautykatongo.blogspot.com/). She dreams of running a tourism business. I can’t doubt that she will finally make it one day // There is nobody who gave comment on blogs as many time as Ijeoma did. She deserves to be nominated as the best attendant this year. She gave us the courage to carry on blogging. Always enthusiastic, she was so humble to clear our coffee table…Thanks Ije (http://ijeomaublogcreativity.blogspot.com/) // What can I say about ‘Professor’. That’s Mbuso’s nickname as he is always busy in the lab. I find him always typing at computer at such extent that I often felt guilty of not working enough. He made me cancelled some of my lunch-times for extra work. What a commitment Mbuso! (http://mbuso.blogspot.com/) // I have been told about frankness by Bruce (http://nkodi.blogspot.com/). Go in his blog and you will realise that he writes without any complex // It was my first time to be with a PhD in class and I have realised that they still emotionally operational after so much readings. They sharm a lot, may be is that their philosophy…Merci Thomas (http://thblaser.blogspot.com/) // He calls his blog the Bulgarian Stallion. It is not about Hollywood and boxing hobbies. I never see someone so passionate about soccer and committed to learn about others’ culture. Thanks Valentin (http://valentintassev.blogspot.com/) for all bills of cups of coffee you have payed for us // Thanks to Wanjiku, she was of really help during debates. I am sorry that she had a class of lovely and traditional African men who stood against any argument toward a so called "blind- modernism". Peers knows what I am talking about…Aksanti Wanji // I have learn about being Patriotic from Temy (http://temiadewunmi.blogspot.com/) as he always speaks positively and passionately about is country Nigeria… He doesn’t think just about money and graphics, very strange for an engineer; thanks bro // Finally Mr. Lovemore Mbingi guess at the Friday ceremony confirmed Temba’s theory of “Breaking the rules” he suggested to all to never lose focus and get impressed by the boss. Thanks Temba (http://thembanyanza.blogspot.com/). I have learned to pay the price and stand for what I believe.

Metrobus – Citizenmetro, Knowledge as freedom

2007-05-21T13:10:00.000+01:00

This is not a fusionnement of companies or a change of name.
Metro-bus is the company which has monopole of public transport here in South African. The Citizen is the name of a quotidian news paper. These companies have two things in common since few month; Bus and information. One may ask how buses can be relevant for a newspapers’ editor as it is for a transport’s business-dealer. Also, speaking about information, I am not talking here of radio-stations broadcasted in the bus, often consisting of news in Xosa or some Afro-jazz from Kaya Fm. Rather my attention is on the fact that Metrobus has allowed The Citizen to provide its selected news head-line in ten pages newspapers called Citizenmetro withing buses. I wonder myself who suggested this fantastic idea of disposing passengers with newspaper within the bus. As a user of buses, I was amazed to see since February frees Citizen’s Newspaper in the bus. Since, pointing every morning at my bus-stop at 7am, I have two expectations; that of my bus to be in time and that of getting my Citizenmetro for fresh info. Till now the arrangement Metro and The Citizen has not raise the ticket price to add in the cost of papers. What happen is that, passengers are free to pick one Citizenmetro once they have their ticket. Everyone chose than for a nice place to seat and read. Ten minutes latter after three of four bus-stops, the bus becomes full. Then one can realise that it is not a freedom right of ladies’ voices in gossips to compete to the radio volume but a heavenly calm of lecture rooms. It is wonderful to see that eighty percent of passengers in the bus are busy reading the Citizenmetro. This observation pushed me to write this few sentences. For example few weeks behind, on a Monday morning in my 6am bus to Gandhi square, the person next to me was not a smiling lady as one may wish but a scholar two time short my height. I didn’t pay attention in the first five minute that the boy had also a newspaper in his hands because I was focus on mine. Few minutes later when I realised that, I was so curious to see what which topic he was reading. It’s obvious that my expectation was to see him skip first few pages on politics and international news and go to the last on music and weekend-sport clashes. I was overwhelmed to see that the boy looking fourteen years old was going topic after topic, from the crash in Cameroon to the latest news on Zimbabwe. He looked much focused and busy reading. I felt very happy to see young like him being interested to grab some knowledge so early in the morning. Reason why, I think that we will impact on future generation if such kind of initiatives can be initiated in other sectors. Knowledge constitutes always a kind of freedom. African governments should subsidise education and provide free education to Citizens when they can says Professor Kuseni Dlamini, guess at the world of work training 2007. The necessity of African countries to compete in this Globalised world will require for African countries to produce and retain skills needed for their development. Skills-shortage and brain-drain issue still not efficiently addressed by most government.
We should admit that even if the majority could afford a 4Rand newspaper, yet not everyone is willing to buy one. Incentives are needed. Free education is a way to go if African has to step forward. I think we should put our hands together for Metro and The Citizen managements. Bravo…

Decision...decision

2007-05-09T07:38:00.000+01:00

First, when I came at the world of work training (Wow), I had a clear goal of getting an opportunity to work within a mining company. Because my academic studies have enabled me to develop good skills in research and writing, I aimed at helping organizations in mining sector to balancing key economic, social, environmental and ethical values. Why only mining company one may ask? My motivation had its source during the time I was working for an NGO thorough its arks here in Gauten. I was amazed to see that vulnerable and orphan children could smile again because small organization such as NGOs compared to a mining company, could do its best to keep them at its attention.
In the 1980’s I was living in one of GECAMINE’s (General des Carriers et des Mines) host community in Katanga/DRC. Though in the 1970’s this company was rated as the world’s lowest cost copper producer, Its social awareness was inefficient. While living in its host community we were facing consequences mismanagement of environmental, health and social procurement. Why not to have a carrier in social corporate responsibility sector as it has become an imperative requirement in many legislation? This is my reflection one month ago.
Today, after listening to many guests at the Wow, I am realizing that I have a potential to work in many other sector and that nowadays work-places doesn’t stick to our academic background necessary. I have discovered my inner-skills and learn a lot about professional life. Two days before the end of this programme, I don’t really know what I should go for in the first place. While I still have my previous goal on board, I feel empowered to be of important contribution in any organization. Decision…decision.

Two ears and one mouth

2007-04-24T12:35:00.000+01:00

It is obvious that our creator want us to talk less and listen more.
Today session with Brad Arden was so inspiring. He talked to us about the importance of team work in the big topic: team intelligence at work. What I have learnt is that by working with others as a team I will perfect myself and achieve also my personal goal in a better may than if I was working alone. It was all about the importance of being quiet and listening to what others think and the requirement of jugging less and listening more. He uses the concept of “territorialism” in order to express the tendency we have to protect our thoughts and what we think right. He highlighted the fact that working in group gives a chance to diversity, pressure and tension which are of a big value for successful achievements. In brief, I have understood that I will learn more and improve myself by listening to what others think on me, my thoughts and my work. While he was ending his session I had a though in my mind when realising that he works alone (no offices) but he is telling us about the importance of team work…very strange but I know that he has got is personal reason to that. However, he was very great and we have learnt a lot. Thanks Brad.

Takkies for Conflicts-Resolution

2007-04-24T07:28:00.000+01:00

I have learned out of the wonderful session with Bérénice de la Croix that often I do a mistake to avoid conflict instead of learning out of it. It was very strange for me to realise that during her session our answers to her questions were frequently wrong. A strange feeling of realising how wrong you can be on a simple subject such as conflict resolution as we deal with it at a daily basis. Bérénice was outstanding and very practical. We could see that she has got a huge experience with her company on this topic. Just to show how the appearance may lies; at the first time I entered the room I saw the guest of the day who was a lady of a humble and simple looking. Few minutes after having my seat I could see that she was wearing takkies-very strange for a guest. This detail brought in my mind a feeling of a kind of lady, who is not tight to formal rules, a woman of character in other word. But I was wrong. I think Bérénice putted her takkies because she knew that she will be running the race of our ignorance. Walking around the table, and very energetically assisting each one of our group with inputs. I have learnt about strategies out of her lecture. She told us how to build a bridge in case of a mediation and gave us a formula with the absolute necessity of the use of “I” and not “You” in case of conflict. While being assertive, I have started to apply her formula which is as follow:
E.g. I feel like X when Y because I love you.
X= a feeling Y= what the other person did
Taking things from there, I can say today that with Bérénice I have ran the race of my ignorance and since I keep on mind this formula which helps me a lot.

The African leaders’ syndrome.

2007-04-20T16:26:00.000+01:00

What is wrong with African leaders; they stick to their functions even when they have become unproductive. Some of them have sat to die on their chairs.

Hi everybody. I wasn’t surprised to see that the newspaper Mails and Guardians published on the 21st of April an article comparing Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe to Mobutu Sese Seko the ex-president of Zaire as I did the previous week on my bog-post. It is obvious that these two leaders have many common-points. For example; they all know how to implement successfully strategies in order to delude their opposition. When in his time, Mobutu galvanised his population for what he called ‘national-unity’, today Mugabe’s political staying power lays on the appropriation of land.

These guys are very good in diplomacy and will succeed no matter what to turn any mediation in their advantage. However, many African leaders have been of a great input in the independence of their respective countries as they resisted to the colonial power and invested their first few years in power for the sovereignty cause. My point is that of trying to understand why they prefer to stick to their position even when political, economical and social indexes show their failure. Some of them are over seventies. For example Omar Bongo of Gabon (72), Hosni Mubarak of Egypt (79) and Robert Mugabe of Zim (83); and they are ruling their countries respectively for 40, 26 and 27 years.

Some of us think that they are scared of justice once their they leave they position. This may be through but not in all cases. They have got money and facts show that they have lost passion for their people. Why shouldn’t they leave now and give chance to younger?

I was upset when reading one of previous weeks Sunday Time’s articles that Manto Tshabalala-Msimang the South African Minister of health was willing to return to duty before June. This is an example of what I call ‘the African leaders’ syndrome’. It is very strange to see that 66 years, after being targeted early this year by the protest against government’s HIV-policy and undergo a major operation of a liver transplant; Manto rushes her way back on her chair. We would expect that she takes a long break and opts for another carrier less stressful. What is going-on with our leaders? We elect them for five years and they want to take hundred…

There will not be such thing as Rhodesia’s storm or a 9/11 on Mugabe’s house; Morgan Tsvangirai is having a wrong dream

2007-04-19T12:15:00.000+01:00

Last Friday, the Sunday Times newspaper reported that Tsvangarai optimistically declared that the Zimbabwean crisis can be resolved in talk and that he is committed to the mediation of president Mbeki.
I am really wondering about Tsvangarai strategy toward Mugabe’s dictatorship in Zimbabwe. Looking at how most dictators in African countries were overthrowned, we can realise that enough has not been done yet in order to mobilise a general uprising in Zimbabwe. The event of 11 mars whereby Tsvangarai and his opposition members where molested and jailed were just a starting point of a fire which should be fuelled more then it is. The picture and footage of Tsangarai himself and his peers wounded on those days was of a major point of official declarations’ rise around the world in condemnation of human right violation by the Zimbabwean government. I think it is wrong that Tsvangarai believes that he can get more from foreign government and decline Mugabe’s regime from outside. I will suggest that he learns from those who had to resist to doctrines and had to pay the ultimate price for what they believed. For example, the history tell us that few hours before the famous “I have a dream’s” speech, Martin Luther King speaking to his peers said that there was no more a way out for him and that he had to write the history with his blood if possible. Therefore, I really doubt about Tsvangarai’s determination to go to the end of his thoughts. It is a big mistake to think that diplomatic pressures will shake such an African dictator. Tony Blair knows something about this. For instance, I know by experience after participating in national’s riots against Mobutu that such dictator should be fought from inside to extend of rising is own army against himself.
As I am spending a month with the work place training here at Wits I can see around the campus a lot of writing and posters about the situation in Zimbabwe. I do think that it is irrational to think that a dictator will be willing to administrate a cure of democracy to his regime if he is not forced. The African Union and Southern African Development Community’s pressure will not do better than a revolution coming from within. Surely Mugabe has learned from his colleagues Mobutu and Idi Amin Dada.
I have been told for the few days at the Wok place training that job seeking is not an easy task. I will have to go an extra-mile sometimes in order to achieve my goal and definitely find the job I am dreaming about. My opinion is that there is not petrol in Zim so that we can expect marines in Bulawayo in the coming days or a military organisation to launch an attack on Harare. Tsvangarai must show determination and go back in Zim and preach by example. What do you think?

Find the right option and do not shoot at your chance

2007-04-13T17:10:00.001+01:00

Have you ever had to swap your lunch-box for peace at primary school; then may be you should prepare yourself to make coffee and photocopies during your first days at work.

During the first day of world of work training Dr. Susan welcoming us, said that human life is characterized by major moments on which our ability to decide is tested. She named those moments ‘transitions’ and gave as examples the shift from home to primary school and that of university into the word of work. Afterward, talking from another perspective Mr. Gordon Freer shared how as an employer they prefer graduated who are flexible and passionate. But the most interesting think was two of Gordon’s three questions which were about yes or not the intern have to make coffee or should attend all meetings. The aim of his questions was to prepare us to routines and self-organization at work. Unluckily, I think that these same questions should be directed toward leadership and flexibility at work. To explain myself, I think it is a reality that there is some employees who think that interns are bottom line, cheap labor, therefore have to make coffee for them and do all their photocopies. Truly speaking, that is not fair. In fact trying to answer to these questions I was brought back to what Dr. Susan called ‘first transition’ moment when some of us went for the first time school. I wish we still remember how we had to give our lunch-box to another school mate in order to avoid seeing ourselves beaten-up. What is interesting here is to discover what we did. But also what would you do as parent when you realize that what you put in your child’s lunch-box uses to feed someone else child. I think your answer to this question reflect the way you will approach the above questions at the workplace. You will have options. The first option is to go to school and speak to your son’s teacher or the principal so that he stops this matter. But I think by doing that your son may loose his self esteem, he may become the weakens-link because his school matte will realize that he can’t defend himself. The Second option is to give to your son some of Jackie Chan's kung-fu or some wrestling techniques for his self-defense. In this case you will be telling him to be violent and there is a risk that he gets hurt. The last option may be to build his self-esteem and to boost his confidence so that he finds solutions by his own.
Unfortunately or fortunately I never get traumatized during my primary school may be because I was a strong boy…I wish. In such case, I think I will go for the third option, knowing now that it is our flexibility or adaptability which determines our success during a transition. I assume that I will make coffee and do photocopy if I should. But in the same time I will be learning on each one of my colleagues till I make friends. By doing so in a short run I will learn my tasks and gain their respect then making the mistake of complaining straight to the boss. What did you do or will you do in such a case?

Why street-smart

2007-04-13T07:06:00.000+01:00

I was surprised to see when I was setting my blog that it should have a title. Then thinking about what I should put, my option went for some words which may reflect me the best. I have titled my blog street-smart because I use to see myself outside, exposed to the real life and always paying the price of whatever I earn than being in a position where I get for free what I want.
I wanted to study art but surprisingly my named appeared in the medicine first year list. Because I never see myself has a doctor, profession which I find boring, therefore I had to locate by myself another student from another faculty with who I should swap my registration receipt. Things where working this way at my university by the time.
By the way, I realise that nowhere in my profile I have said that I was from the Democratic Republic of Congo. I did not do that purposely. However, I know that you should discover that through my writings because sometimes not always it happen that a lecture tells me that one of my sentences did not have an English meaning. I will know in that moment that my brain lay down by mistake what it has conceived in French. Questioning my self about the reason why my brain just switched suddenly in French reminds me about one of Jesus lesson to his disciples when he was telling them that normally the master of a party likes to keep the old wine and serves it at the end when people are drunk. The reason is because the old wine is good and expensive. I think that, this is the case of what happen often to the brain of a French-speaking. Even though you are in an English environment, seldom your brain just conceives your thoughts in your first language because it thinks that is correct and better. Consequently, I will be very please to read your comments if such case happen in my writings.
Coming back to my explanation of why I have chosen street-smart has my blog-title: I will continue by saying that I had finally got someone from the faculty of law with who I did swap my registration receipt. Indeed, one of my passions beside music is to help people. I dream to make a difference in someone’s life. This is the reason why I went for laws studies in order to help if I could those needy of justice in my country. Unfortunately I couldn’t finish my studies because everything became instable. I had to do any kind of jobs in order to support my studies and myself. Things were not easy for me but I did try to push far as I could. Now I can say that life is good. Not because I am in South Africa but because I have learn about life the hard-way. I have fought for whatever I wanted. Step after step I am drawing closer to my dream. I still see my self as a businessman with a social-development heart in a long run.

The feedback I have received after my first words plublished in this blog makes me realise that blogging should be taken seriously.

2007-04-12T16:44:00.000+01:00

Hi everyone. After having a look on my first sentences published on this blog, I have realised that there are grammar and spelling mistakes. Also, by not using simple English words my writing appears so abstract. For example my first publication was titled: log in to lug out, and I did not take time to explain what I wanted to say. Not everybody knows what ‘lug’ means. I am very sorry for that. Next time I will take time for editing and to say things in a more clear way what I think. I will appreciate to read from you in order to improve myself. Your comments and corrections are welcomed