Tighten Screws on illicit Financial Flows

By Retlaw Matatu Matorwa

United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) estimates the continent is losing US$50-60bn per annum through illicit Financial Flows (IFFs). According to Economic Outlook Report the figure represents 4% Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the period 2003-2012. The report also noted that IFFs outpaced Development Assistance (ODA) and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) which averaged between USD 42.1 billion and 43.8 billion respectively. This level of financial loss impact negatively on developing countries by reducing their domestic resources and tax revenue needed for poverty eradication and provision of social services. Furthermore, IFFs related activities remains a threat to regional economic, social and political security.

Illicit Financial Flows involves the illegal cross border movement of money which has been unlawfully earned, transferred and utilised. Common perpetrators involved in IFFs activities include but not limited to; drug dealers, government officials, traders, human traffickers, terrorists, multi-national corporations, and financial institutions. These perpetrators exploit sophisticated but poorly regulated financial and trading system to their unfair advantage.

As a result, Sub Sahara Africa suffered the largest loss emanating from illicit financial flows averaging 6% of its GDP in 2015. Africa’s economic giants South Africa and Nigeria are losing averagely between US$209.22bn and correspondingly US$178.04bn per annum, Liberia’s illicit outflows in 2015 were pegged at 61.6% of the country’s GDP and Equatorial Guinea estimated to be approximately US$ 4000 per person (GFI 2015). Whilst the continent grapples with IFFs losses, the activities are escalating at an alarming average rate of 20.4% per year since 2012 (Trust Africa org, 2013). 

According to African Union (AU) and UNECA, large corporations are responsible for 65%, organized crime 30% and corruption 5% of IFFs transactions in the region. Even though Corruption is as low as 5% of illicit Financial Flows, its effect must not be underestimated. Referring to the pertinence of curbing corruption to reduce IFFs; Khalil Goga, a researcher with Institute of Security Studies noted that “Tackling corruption is as important as stopping IFF’s in Africa.” Corruption is at the heart of IFF’s in Sub Sahara Africa as it diverts public resources to private and individual consumption. Private consumption has much lower positive multiplier effects than public spending on social services. Proceeds of corruption or criminal activities will generally be spent on consumption of luxury vehicles, or invested in real estate, art, or precious metals (World Bank, 2006). The social impact of a Euro spent on buying a yacht or importing champagne will be very different from that of a Euro spent on primary education. The situation is worse particularly, where resources are taken out of the country hidden somewhere instead of benefiting the already ailing economy.

Illicit Financial Flows creates an underworld system which pause a serious threat to regional peace and security. The loopholes in world financial systems and prevalent rate of IFFs activities may be responsible for sustaining terrorism and organized crime. How do terrorist groups such as Boko Horam, Al-shabaab and others able to secure resources to arm and conscript others into their systems? How does organized crime networks fund and buy their way through the justice systems, customs and law enforcement agencies?

In essence, IFFs reduce the ability of African countries to achieve their development goals, draining the continent’s capital stock and shifting resources from more productive activities with strong after-tax returns to less productive activities with high pre-tax returns (Stephanie Keene, 2015). In this case, tax burden is transferred to poor citizens and loss on social spending- as states no longer receive equitable share of tax income. The poor remain poorer whilst inequality increases.

Despite widespread concerted effort to curb IFFs in developing countries; International financial institutions supposed to anchor financial integrity are paying huge fines for their involvement in IFFs related offences. In 2012 alone, HSBS was fined US$1.921 million, Standard Chartered Bank US$ 677 million (BBC 2012; New York times 2012), ING US$ 619 million (United States department of treasury 12a, 12b) and many other financial institutions such as JP Morgan, Lloyds Bank, RBS (AN AMRO) and Riggs Bank have all been sanctioned for their involvement in IFF’s irregularities. Frankly, these institutions are benefitting a lot from this practice. The fact that they are able to pay such huge fines and still remain afloat is an indication of the lucrative nature of this business. Stiffer penalties and more restrictive approaches need to be considered to discourage financial institutions to partake in this malpractice.

In addition, the absence of political will on the part of African kleptocracy to curb illicit Financial Flows is derailing progress in this regard. The reality on the ground suggests that African political and business elites have unjustified deposits stashed in financial institutions in the west.  Spooner (2015) reported that Eritrea a country which was ranked 182 out of 187 countries in the 2014 United Nations Human Development Index (HDI) report – topped the list, with a single client banking a whopping $695.2-million.  The son of President Teodoro Obiang of Equatorial Guinea was compelled to remit US$230 million worth of assets and funds stashed in the United States and France. As a matter of fact, for more than half a century the Alpine nation of Switzerland has built a reputation as the world’s center for tax evasion, fraud, money laundering, racketeering, safe haven and above all a staunch ally of corrupt African leaders and great beneficiary of third world corruption ( Rakgomo, 2016). This is a worrisome situation!

However, given the high levels of corruption, susceptibility to bribes among law enforcement agencies, public officials, and compounded with inadequate training- tightening the screws on IFFs is a mammoth but doable task. Progressive and commendable efforts by African Union, United Nations and civil society organizations such as Thabo Mbeki Foundation and Trust Africa can only bear fruits in the presence of genuine commitment from the region. Protecting the integrity and stability of international and regional financial systems, cutting off resources available to terrorists and making it more difficult for those engaged in crime to profit from their criminal activities can impact positively on regional peace and security.

Curbing corruption and bribery which further weakens the ability of judiciary, police and public institutions from effectively discharging their roles and duties remains central to this challenge. Above all, Africa must spearhead a lobbying and advocacy initiative calling upon financial institutions from the west to adhere to ethical financial practices based on transparency and accountability.

Ndomafungiro angu

@ blackSeptember 2016

Africa brand Review

By Retlaw Matatu Matorwa

A brand is an expression of essential truth or value of an organization, product and services (James Heaton). It communicates characteristics, values, and attributes of what a brand represents. Good branding complements and goes beyond marketing activities and roles.

Late 2015, I met a group of Europeans of German origin in Ethiopia wearing T-shirts written “Building hope for Africa.” The message made me think deep about the perceptions, image and brand Africa is known for. Do we have a brand to talk about? What kind of a brand is Africa associated with? What message does our brand communicate? Is there need to create or salvage our brand, if so how?

Simply put, the existence of Africa as a continent makes it a brand. Undeniably, the African brand has been shinning world over in areas of academia, sports, entertainment and other non political-economic forte. According to World Bank (2013) the world’s youngest population is set to increase by 50%, of which half of them will be in Africa. This creates enormous investment opportunities for the region. Africa is endowed with favorable climate, land, minerals and raw materials which strategically position the region for industrial and technological advancement. No wonder, Africa is top on the bucket list of international investors, each struggling to control and expand their influence.

However, the greatest cloud consuming the African brand is mainly political. Most of our problems have roots in our systems of governance. Africa is battling unemployment, dictatorship, impunity, civil wars and internal conflicts, corruption, poverty and food insecurity amongst others. Provision of social services such as access to safe and clean water, education and health care facilities remain challenging. Conflicts and civil wars continue to derail economic well being and social progress in countries such as Burundi, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The absence of good governance and democracy in countries like Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Sudan, Eritrea, Madagascar and many others has curtailed and disrupted positive political, economic and social transformation.

International Monetary fund (2012) revealed that African governments spend 40% of their budgets on military and defense at the expense of investing in social services such as health and Education. Africa has the highest number of internally displace people in the world (UNHCR 2013) International Organisation for Migration (IOM) 2015 statistics indicates that 80%  of refugees and Asylum seekers in Europe are from Sub-Sahara Africa. Despite being rich in mineral and raw materials most African governments remain stuck in a culture of dependency (Aid Statistics at Glance to 2015).

Notably, the African brand is affected by the absence of trust, and responsibility between policy makers and the governed. Most of the challenges mentioned in this article represent symptoms relating to lack of trust in our people and institutions. It is this level of trust which permeates from individual states to the regions as a whole. The primitive politics in most African countries coupled with impunity and dictatorship is the reason we lack a strategic response to resolve prevailing challenges. To this end, Africa is seen as a continent of under-developed, power hungry and divided people, incapable of resolving their own problems for greater good of the continent. The world see and judge Africa through the lenses of its malnourished and tattered clothed children, diseases, war and conflict ravaged images. Of recent, the Ebola scourge played into the hands of western stereotypes feeding into the notion of an African continent infested with deadly diseases.

Nevertheless, Africans have a collective responsibility to improve the perceptions, correct stereotypes and create a positive narrative for the region. Addressing pertinent issues of governance, rule of law, democracy and accountability, food security and social service delivery goes a long way. Concept of leadership has to be revamped from the micro level of the family locating its role in the broader scheme of governance, through the societal and central governance.  Industrialization is key; our focus must be on processing raw materials, value addition and technological advancement. This will translate into job creation socio-economic transformation of the continent and its people.  

Africa must embrace technology, changing its attitude and the way of doing things. For example it is very critical to mechanize and adapt technology in Agricultural sector. Given the massive land and labour available mechanization, enhanced access to short term high yield varieties, access to affordable fertilizers and markets can increase productivity thereby improving food security in the region.

Media play an important role in influencing and changing the mindset. Media is dominated by western powers who hardly reports positively on the continent. Our media must begin to repackage and contribute towards a narrative aimed at positioning Africa in a positive light. Above all, every African is a brand Ambassador of the continent; we must in our individual right thrive to contribute towards re-branding and repackaging Africa.

Ndomafungiro angu

@Blackseptember 2016

Africa must be honest and sincere with its partners

By Retlaw Matatu Matorwa

It was another feast of three course meals, bed and breakfast, and per-diems discussing and penning solutions for the poor African.

In the city of Valletta in Malta, African leaders signed 1.9 bn Euros financial aid from the European Union the fund is geared towards aiding Africans improve their economic and social conditions. It is envisaged that the financial assistance will help reduce the influx of African migrants into Europe.

Addressing a consortium of African and European representatives, Chairperson of the African Union Dr. Nkosazana Zuma re- affirmed her commitment of the African Union to improve the economic conditions of African states and to curb migration. However she appealed to the European Union not to close borders on legal migrants. Zuma encouraged Africa and Europe to engage in partnerships and deliberations aimed at enhancing industrialization.

Before attempting to analyze how effective the financial package will be in curbing migration, it may be very interesting to interrogate whether or not the African Union had or indeed has any strategy in place to address the migration challenge. In other words, by receiving this aid, how does the AU hope to ensure implementation of the ‘Malta project package’ (a) to improve African economies and (b) curbing Africa-Europe migration?

Africa has been recipient of donor funding, financial reprieve and loans since 1960’s.  Countries such as Malawi, South Sudan, Somalia and others are dependent on donor aid and yet not much in terms of economic progress has been achieved. It is in Africa where some leaders have billions of dollars stashed in banks abroad, enough even to finance their national budgets and yet their countries depend on aid.

Moreso, most if not all African countries have at one point received one kind of aid or another for developmental purposes. Needless to say, billions of aid have never translated to the developmental plans associated with such assistance. The question then is, how different will this assistance be from the one given to the continent before?

It may be wrong to assume that European Union lacks understanding and appreciation of the challenges affecting Africa. Despite the many opportunities in European countries, life is not that rosy to many of our people in the Diasporas. The reality is that Africans do not migrate to Europe by choice; rather it is limited opportunities that compel them to take these treacherous choices.

Seriously, International office for Migration (2015) reports that 86% of immigrants from Sub-Sahara Africa died on the Mediterranean voyage in a bid to reach European soil.

Arguably, African economies are struggling to provide basic necessities, employment and social security for their people. To state the obvious, Africa is suffering structural challenges of both political and economic nature. Absence of democracy and good governance (“government by the people for the people) in many African states is the cause of instability, civil disobedience and wars.

The nonexistence of a respectable constitutional culture, impunity, lack of checks and balances has ushered in corrupt governments further disenfranchising the masses. To make matters worse, inadequate systems ensuring transparency, accountability and civic engagement has inhibited citizens from airing grievances and contributing to national decision making processes.

African governments are popular for investing huge sums of money to thwart opposition politics and discerning voices, rigging election- in fact closing all avenues of expression. In essence, dictatorship, bad governance, corruption, civil wars, hunger and lack of opportunities amongst others are the reasons Africans are running away in numbers out of the continent.

African leaders have no moral authority not to reject the 1.9BN Euros, but accept it for their own selfish interest. The benefits will not trickle down to ordinary Africans feeling the pinch. Instead, this financial reprieve will create other avenues for African leaders to feast in Addis Ababa and fuel corruption. There is no mechanism whatsoever, to demand transparency on how individual nations and citizens are to benefit from his fund. How does this trickle down to affect and change the lives of ordinary Africans? Will this fund usher in a new democratic dispensation in the continent? How will this fund enhance and create citizen space in democratic processes?

At the same time, are our African leaders being honest with their partners? Nkosazana Zuma and her cronies, in their conviction are they truly believing this fund is even closer to resolving challenges related to Africa-Europe migration?

Whilst the positive contribution of aid must be applauded, some African governments are neglecting their roles and obligations. The reality is that aid has not empowered but created dependency syndrome in African states. Ironically, if one observes the bank accounts of leaders in these countries one cannot help wondering what will happen to the 1.9bn Euros.

In conclusion, I argue that Africa does not need aid to solve most of her problems. She needs honesty and sincerity in understanding, articulating and resolving her own challenges.The shameless absence of honesty and sincerity explains why, after many decades of receiving aid we continue believing it will help us deal with migration and other issues. Migration is only a symptom of broader challenges and therefore focusing on it at the expense of addressing the root causes is deceptive.

Ndomafungiro angu!

@Black September 2015

No to vending People's Lives.

By: Retlaw Matatu Matorwa

The ultimatum issued by the Minister of Local Government and National Housing, Ignatius Chombo  to vendors demanding that they vacate the streets of Harare attracted mixed reactions from stakeholders.Interestingly, the Minister resorted to employ the services of the national army to enforce the order. Why not municipal or metropolitan police?

In response, the business fraternity view the sporadic mushrooming of vending throughout the city as a threat to their enterprises. OK Stores pays rent and taxes to local authorities; a vendor comes to the streets selling the same merchandise, cheaper because he does not pay overheads costs. Motorists and pedestrians have their own set of challenges related to parking and overcrowded pavements.Vendors  dared the Minister not to vacate the streets they emphasize their occupation is their only means of survival.Notably,The Zimbabwean economy has  nosedived, unemployment rates are soaring  and reaching ubiquitous levels. 

However,does this justify the presence of  illegal vendors in the city center?

Vending is not peculiar to Zimbabwe, it is an acceptable occupation whose method of selling are recognized and accepted world over.  In developed countries, vending machines are placed at street corners, trains stations and other public places. However, these informal sector enterprises are subject to by-laws and regulations. 

By-laws are designed to ensure public order,environmental, health and safety. More so, regulating products which  befits to be sold on the streets, otherwise there is a risk of illegal products finding way into the public hands. It is illegal in most developed to sell pharmaceuticals in the street corners. This is one example of regulating such products in the interest of the public. Vending must be subjected to rules and regulations. 

For Zimbabwe, the issue of vendors requires careful and constructive thought and therefore civil society, government and all stakeholders MUST be honest in conjuring up a solution! We must learn at all times to substitute emotions with reasoning/ critical analysis.

The level of dishonesty and deception exhibited by stakeholders in handling this issue is alarming. Far from seeking a sustainable solution, interest groups seek an opportunity to advance their political mileage and social relevance. The threat of this matter getting hijacked risk affected parties getting a sustainable, long term and futuristic solution. Vendors must never forget the voice which gave them confidence to move into the city center, is the same voice  controlling the army. 
Civil society and representatives of Vendors accuse authorities of breaching their constitutional rights and civil liberties. To clarify this debate of rights and civil liberties; rule of law is a cornerstone of  any democracy, this entails all people and institutions are subject to and accountable to law. The Law must be fairly  applied and enforced; the principle of government by law. Put simply the government, agents and its officials as well as individuals are held accountable under the law. So how can we leave vendors to flout the law under the guise of fundamental rights and freedoms? 

Vendors surely have rights but they come with a  corresponding set of responsibilities. They have the responsibility to respect and operate within the framework of the law. Basic guideline to exercising one’s right entails that; one must not infringe upon the rights of others. Vending in front of another persons business does infringe on the rights of other tax payers? 

Civil society must desist from knee jerk reactions in their commenting of issues. No one has done any research on the challenges associated with lawless vending viz-a-viz organized and orderly vending where vendors are allocated stalls and other social amenities like toilets.
Walking the streets of Harare, waste of different forms is all over the city- does this not pause a health and environmental threat? Businesses have resorted to leaving the city center due to the chaos caused by this unregulated practice, real estate industry is crying foul as a result of reduction of property prices in the capital. The few bona- fide businesses remaining compete with vendors selling the same merchandise. 

To this end, Vendors must take a moment  to reflect. Discourage attempts of their agenda being hijack for political expediency on their clock. It is strategic for them to positively explore possibilities of coming up with a win-win solution through engagement and dialogue with authorities. 

Above all I urge Zimbabweans to take stock of our past experiences; history has taught us that national challenges are usually high jacked for political expediency relegating to spectator status those really affected. Government must resolve this matter with the seriousness, honesty and sincerity it requires. Civil society and opposition political players must be objective and responsible in their utterances- it is not a matter of proving a point- Yes we have challenges as a nation, but we must be left with a dignified understanding of differentiating right and wrong.

That is just my thinking- Mafungiro Angu Zvangu!

Black September (2015)

Gulf between Courts of Public Opinion and Courts of Law: Oscar Pristorius Trial

By Retlaw Matatu Matorwa

Oscar Pristorius murder trial is unarguably one of the 21^st century greatest trials. Human interest subjects such as Love, race, frie-nemies[1] to privileges of the “haves” took center stage during the trial. Unwearyingly, I watched the trial transforming from a tragedy to a reality show. The legal theatrics in the court room was interesting- it was world class performance. The precedents from this case, undoubtedly has space in the future of legal jurisprudence. Of interest, the star witness was truly remarkable; Pistorius sobbed, stammered and gave contradictory statements on the stand. He nearly incriminated his defense for misleading him. It was dramatic indeed!

Oscar’s trial dominated social media platforms Facebook, Twitter, Instagram to mention but, a few. Bloggers and Journalist were glued on whatsapp texting and sending updates about the trial. In addition to, demonstrations and picketing from gender activists and organization, sympathizers and opportunists had their part to play.

Carte Blanch’e spruced it up through acquiring rights to broadcast the trial live. 138 million people across the world followed the trial through DSTV channel 198. The channel was even named OSCAR’s TRIAL. News channels from CNN to Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation were pre-occupied with the trial bringing experts foretelling, analyzing the proceeding of the trial- what to expect- in fact everyone had an opinion.

I appreciated this trial, for affording the public unfettered right to exercise their freedom of expression. In essence, this trial was highly opinionated, every Jack, Jill and Tom had an opinion. Following debates and exchanges on twitter and facebook- it was amazing how the public “overnight” turned to forensic, Legal and judiciary experts.

Despite public opinion calling for his condemnation- to the disappointment of many- Judge Thokozile Masipa slapped the Olympian with a five year Jail term for culpable homicide causing the death of Reeva Steenkamp on 14^th February 2013.

Whether Judge Masipa was too lenient or not, is an issue I’m reluctant to address. I will leave it to legal enthusiast.

This case was highly publicized, the social status of the accused person also attracted interest from a wider range of audience. There was no way; this case would have avoided attracting public opinion. Hence, we had the verdict long before the trial.

However, public opinion lacks substance and facts. People’s opinions are not necessarily facts- Hypothetically, how many of us supported a wrong opinion simply because we want to please a friend, relative or acquaintances? Not all opinions are misleading but, human beings have a tendency of using emotions without benefit of intellect- clouding their judgments.

Judge Masipa must have had it rough given the public pressure on her shoulders. The manner in which things were happening makes it difficult for one to maintain an impartial mind.

However, should our courts of law relied on public opinion, I’m sure our correctional facilities must be bursting in capacity; we will all be in prison! - But rest assured courts of law would be a joke!

Fortunately in the courts of Law, “the wise and dull both have their story to tell.”

There is no space for Court of public opinion in a court of law: Courts of Law are established to seek truth and deliver Justice and fairness to both parties. The court of Law weighs the merits and demerits of the case before coming up with a judgment. It places more value of evidence and not emotions.Most of all, the courts of Law work on the presumption of innocent till proven guilty, BUT court of public opinion WORKS ON PRESUMPTION OF- guilty till proven innocent and  are quick to condemn.

In the courts of Law the accused is given an opportunity to give his account of events. Unlike our courts of public opinion where we claim monopoly over what is and should be the truth. He or she is afforded an opportunity to seek advice from experts in the hope of shaping his truth- implicitly, the state probes the account of the accused to triangulate and collaborate his/ her facts and evidence. The prosecution and defense attorneys are given ample time to state their case in the presence of an impartial Judge- Playing MUTONGI GAVA character[2]

As a rule of procedure, the presiding Judge must not be influenced by anything other than evidence before the court. The rule cushions the Judge from being affected by public opinions and emotions- As far away as possible he/ she must keep a distance from media, analyst and public centered opinions. He or she must make his/ her judgments based on facts and evidence. The courts of public opinion rarely offer such opportunities.

Without going into further details, I’m inclined to appreciate Judge Masipa’s objectivity- she remained calm and collected paying attention to details throughout the trial. Despite public outrage condemning the accused -her lordship dared things. She has guts!

Whether her judgment was erroneous or not, Masipa refused to be intimidated by public blackmail- she decided to stand by her facts and objective judgment, taking considerable caution. She upheld the Law, which she was sworn to serve- we may not agree with her but I respect her incomparable principle of impartiality resisting populist self serving judgment.

It is my earnest prayer that; fellow Judges and magistrates in Zimbabwe take a leaf from her Lordship Masipa. I watched helplessly, as our judiciary system failed a man, condemning him to prison for his huge sexual appetite. The judiciary system succumbed to pressure from the public, women rights movement and other opinionated groups. We judged him on the basis of being a man of the cloth. This trial removed reason and substituted elements of Law and evidence with emotions.

I went on record, and will do so again Martin Gumbura deserves a fair trial- Maybe Masipa may provide us guidance.

Anyway, that’s my thinking my thinking!

Black September………….

---

[1] Frie-nemis- is a term used in reference to friends with a antagonize  a friend

[2] Mutongi Gava comes from an old folklore  meaning the impartial, objective judge

Economic and Social costs of Ebola-

By Retlaw Matatu Matorwa

I have not blogged for a while because of wasting time debating which issues are topical before penning my thoughts. Unfortunately, juicier or more serious issues emerge before settling on what to write. The circle goes on and on.

I watch news every morning to get an update on world events. As I was flipping through news channels this morning, Oscar Pristorius occupied my mind. Immediately, switched to e-TV - my interest was to get an update on Oscar Pristorius.

Far from it, a report on the effects of Ebola epidemic on Japanese and Hong Kong Stock Exchange caught my attention. I struggled to link Ebola and Stock exchange. What has Ebola got to do with investment decisions, buying and selling of shares? Those infected and affected may not be linked to activities of (Japanese Stock Exchange) JSSE and (Hong Kong Stock Exchange) HKSE? From a laymen point of view- the news item did not make sense. Hence, I decided to just do a research on the subject.

 Let’s take Sierra Leone for example. According BBC; twelve out of thirteen districts are affected by Ebola. The epicenters are in the Eastern provinces near Liberia and Guinea. Agriculture and mining sector are heavily affected. Majority of people in Sierra Leone are farmers. Approximately, Sixty six percent (66%) of the population are gainfully employed or derive their subsistence from agriculture related activities. Since the outbreak of Ebola, capacity utilization of farm lands decreased. Farmers abandon their lands fearing contracting Ebola.

This state of affairs affects food availability: demand increases whilst production declines causing an upsurge of food costs. Once inflation occur it exerts pressure on national currency creating demand for foreign currency.  World food Program (WFP) recently estimated its food and emergency relief aid for Sierra Leone to be around US$70 million.

Conglomerates such as Rio-Tinto evacuated their team and the rest of workforce in the area on leave.As a result  exports are negatively affected reducing foreign currency earnings. Implicitly, investors and strategic business partners abroad are not spared from these effects.

On the other hand, Sierra Leone was navigating towards middle income status of 11.3% annual growth, but could see growth of only 8% and zero in 2015 (World Bank 2014).  Closing of markets, disruption of farming activities, international travel restrictions and slow down in critical mining operation as a result of foreign workers fleeing the country for fear of contracting the virus has caused devastating effects on the country.

Guinea, a major producer and exporter of Cocoa and Palm oil is helplessly loosing exports earnings. An exodus of farm workers from the countryside has resulted in low production of Cocoa and Palm Oil. On the world market, the price of Cocoa and Palm oil is affected.

Whilst Liberia is suffering the same economic effects, it is imperative to note that Liberia is the most affected, and it has registered highest deaths rates. According to Huffington Post, of the 4249 deaths so far Liberia suffered 2458 deaths- which is highly unfortunate and worrisome.

Just as the world battles finding a cure and sending emergency relief. The lives of those affected by this scourge will never be the same again. Long after this outbreak has been contained the psychological trauma may weigh heavily on these societies.

In addition of widow and orphans, the trauma of not burying your loved ones and not knowing where their remains are, and worse not seeing a grave- has serious psychological consequences for many Africans.

In African tradition, people meticulously ensure their departed ones are afforded a decent burial, with rituals and prayers in their name, preparing their acceptance with ancestors and God.

In most cases, such rituals and procedures involves bidding the dead person last respects, giving out his remains such as clothes and other personal belongings- and passing on the button to the next generation.

The psychological trauma of not seeing how, your relative is buried is traumatizing.

This is just a tip of an Iceberg, Liberia, is a young nation just came out of civil war, and the nation was beginning to walk the path towards reconciliation and reconstruction. However, the outbreak of Ebola has disrupted the progress, people are suspicious of each other, no longer attending church which is important for social cohesion, gatherings are not encouraged- there is fear of establishing contact with an individual unknown. The whole community, sharing and love for each other is disrupted- everyone is living in total fear.

But seriously, what needs to be done about this epidemic:

Watching the world reacting to this outbreak and the time it’s taking to tackle it- Institutions such as World Health organization, African Union, ECOWAS must step up their efforts to deal with this epidemic. Three issues-prevention- cure and provision of psycho- social support must form part of their response.

Prevention- involves the use of community health group agents to provide accurate and detailed information on the epidemic. Have noticed that in countries affected there seem to be no adequate information. Myths and superstitions are influencing the way people understand this epidemic. In Liberia- some are even looking at the epidemic as a fundraising conspiracy.

More efforts must be invested to find a cure. With more collaboration, it is very possible for the cure to be found in less than a year- this is an emergency situation requiring expediency.

Also, learning from countries who have dealt with this scourge before- Uganda is on recording for successfully containing the Ebola virus with a rate of 75% (WHO-1999) treated cases. Why not build upon the mechanism implemented by Ugandans?

Considering, the traumatic experiences in these countries, a comprehensive Psycho- social support system has to put in place- a response mechanism to the affected communities.

Above all, Africa must take center stage and lead in this process; it must not wait for the United Nations, World Health Organizations to come up with solutions. African organs such as African Union, ECOWAS and SADC amongst others must be on the forefront of mapping out strategies to combat this disease- Most importantly, Africa must be proactive and not reactive through investing resources in research and development and health infrastructure amongst other priorities. Look beyond today………

However, the Ebola outbreak, will to a larger extend   destroy the brand image of Africa. It has exposed the continent’s shortcoming feeding into the trap of negative stereotypes. Once, again the world is relating Africa and Africans to poverty, dilapidation, a place of diseases and hopelessness.

Anyway, that’s my thinking!

Black September.

Goodluck Jonathan;Pride Aside,Time to Negotiate

By Retlaw Matatu Matorwa

The much celebrated Nigerian and American military search for the abducted girls is yet to produce results. It appears Boko Harum had their strategy well figured out. They had time to work out and perfect their own intelligence strategy.

The theory that, Boko Harum has decimated the girls into smaller numbers to avoiding detection is quite credible. It may be possible, some of the girls crossed borders to neighboring States within and outside Nigeria. Although, American policy on terrorism maintains “no negotiations with terrorists,” Considering what is at stake and fruitless efforts invested so far this maybe the right time for dialogue.

Media reported Boko Harum is being aided by Al-quaeda. No valid evidence was provided to support the claims. But, if indeed it is true – It’s unfortunate for Nigeria, especially when America is part of the equation.

Since September 9/11, Al-queda and United States of America declared sworn in enemies. Wherever, Al-queda potentially flourishes or operates America intervenes- hoping to wipe them out and teach Al-queda a lesson. On one hand, driven by their conviction and “faith” Al-queda claims the will of Allah to swab out American imperialism and hegemony. America is seen as a threat to Islamism. A thesis can be written on evolution of Al-queda and American animosity but the 9/11 bombings drew the line.

Analysts still term the bombing of the World Trade Center, “The Grand Attack.” Americans were caught unaware; the bombings left American pride wounded at its very best, everyone questioning the super power’s intelligence and security systems. In fact, Americans never imagined such an attack would happen on their territory. At the same time, Al-queda celebrated having beaten the best security system in the world; it marked the beginning of their confidence in fighting America. To date, America’s MOST hated group is Al-queda.

Serve for 2011, America has been waging wars and dared to fight terrorism, but doing so off American soil. These wars are fought in other territories with non American casualties. In Pakistan, Afghanistan, Libya, Iraq just to mention but a few, the real casualties were people who remained long after Americans withdrew. In most cases countries are left far worse, fragile and ungovernable than they were before. Infrastructure dilapidation, breakdown of social order and insecurity usually are the results. I’m yet to encounter a state whose conditions improved thereafter. It’s a point that is debatable though!

In no way, am I against the intervention of Americans in Nigeria, it is a noble gesture of goodwill and concerns for the welfare of others. In my last article, I lamented the lack of a coordinated response from African head of states and regional bodies such as Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group and African Union.

My point is, in a conflict situation it is important to engage parties involved and decide on the modus operandi for engagement or intervention. Care enough to understand each parties’ grievances. What are the underlying issues? How these issues did come about? Has there been an effort internally to resolve them? In the case of Nigeria, is it just civil disobedience, terrorism or an indication of growing frustrations of the masses? And above all, are parties willing to engage each other, can a solution be found?

Once these questions are answered and armored with facts selecting effective mediators and course of action is imperative. In this case, the mediator has to be far away from the conflict but understands the real issues and the capacity to maintain impartiality.

Back to our case, the Nigerian Crisis- once Al-queda is involved, whether using a front or supporting any group American intervention becomes a different game. Simply put, it’s Al-queda and America fighting in disregard of the casualties and what is at stake. America would proudly support initiatives that demonstrate their military superiority whilst Al-queda thrives to use any means at their disposal to show Americans- “you are not in control and we give you a run for your money.”

Whoever coined the American policy of “no negotiations with terrorist” had the utopian belief that it is feasible for America to squash terrorism in a twinkle of an eye, which is proving to be difficult. At the same time they believed, once one gives in to terrorists demands it increase or encourage terrorist’s activities thereby legitimizing terrorism as a means to address grievances.

Be that as it may, acts of “terrorism” and insurgency in Nigeria do have an economic, social and political basis which should be understood in its own context. The abduction of the girls is/was not a random activity; it’s a well orchestrated plan with a set objective- Maybe seeking an audience for a cause.

My experience with Nigeria confirms the social inequalities and political exclusion bred a constituency of disgruntled masses, whose hearts has been hardened over time by so many hardships. These people are prepared to do anything to gain an advantage especially the unemployed youths.

I visited Niger Delta in 2004. I was confronted with situations I had never imagined. The living conditions are appalling to say the very least, poor sanitation, oil pipes running through villages, gases and sooth 24 hours a day. You can’t drink any water, wells are infested with oil and petroleum waste. They are confronted with oil burst burning and destroying lives and torching homesteads. Farming is virtually impossible due to the contamination of both water sources and agricultural fields. There is no difference between day and night because of flames oozing out of oil rig up the chimneys.

One woman wanting to prove a point, took a cup of milk and placed it on her roof; in fifteen minutes it had turned grey in colour indicating high levels of soot. Schools, hospitals and social services infrastructure is dilapidated, unemployment is rife and yet this is where the biggest percentage of Nigeria’s wealth comes from. Surely, the day I spent and slept there changed my opinion on the plight of the people of Niger Delta and justified their uprising.

Against this background, Africa needs to deal with its issues in context and opening dialogue is critical. Otherwise, we run a risk of the Nigerian crisis hijacked and entangled in wars with no desire to address the root problems of our continent. Americans once invited, will not leave Nigeria without dealing with Al-queda (for them they are fighting with Al-queda not book harum) God, Allah know when this fight will end.

Should dialogue be initiated it may assist in rescuing our girls at the same time map a lasting solution. Negotiations reduce the risk of a fully fledged war, it opens up opportunities for stalling and managing the conflict- it creates a condition of sanity under the guise of resolving issues.

The problem with military intervention is the creation of an artificial winner and loser. Gudluck Jonathan has the official story which is supported by an audience, Boko harum, a declared terrorist group has not yet availed their side of the story. All we know is who they are and working with. I’m not sure; all that has happened in the name of this group is just sheer killings, insurgency and abductions for no reason at all. Military mighty may suppress or defeat the group but as long as the same challenges still exist- there will be no winner, it will re-occur.

In the quest for lasting solutions, let us remember thousands whose lives were lost in Nigeria, Above all, we need to make sure our girls are returned safely, alive and as it stands they appear to be ponies in a game of chess.

Let’s, Negotiate pride doesn’t pay.

Dzorai vasikana!

It’s just my thinking

Black September