Flyerafrique

flyer

ISSUE 1 Sample

AFRIQUE

THE DISTINCTIVE TRAVELLER

JOHANNESBURG WORLD CLASS AFRICAN CITY TRAVEL • BUSINESS • LEISURE

NEWS

FEATURED

PEOPLE

BUSINESS

TECHNOLOGY

LEISURE

MOTORING

flyer

AFRIQUE

THE DISTINCTIVE TRAVELLER

54

NEWS

6

Ethiopian Airlines Introduces Time Saving Web Check-in Services Ethiopian is proud to announce the commencement of online passenger web check-in services as part of its continuous efforts to enhance the travelling experience of its passengers.

The service will allow Ethiopian customers to check-in online avoiding airport queues and last minute rush. Customers can now choose their own seats on line, update personal information, confirm special requests and print boarding pass. This is particularly beneficial to passengers travelling with no baggage, as they can proceed directly to the boarding

gate through airport security.

Passengers with check-in baggage will proceed to the baggage dropoff zone. This system will allow passengers to register their loyalty miles while checking-in.

The on-line check-in is available from 48 to 2 hours prior to the departure of international flights and from 24 to 2 hours for domestic flights.

At the initial stage, the web check-in service is available for 32 Ethiopian destinations and Ethiopian will subsequently expand the service to the remaining destinations.

JKIA’s NEW terminal to be finished by Dec 2012

SAA & Singapore Airlines fined for price fixing The competition Commission last month confirmed a concluded settlement agreement with South African Airways (SAA) and Singapore Airlines in relation to price fixing conduct of flights between Johannesburg and Hong Kong.

SAA agreed to settle a penalty of $2,506,572, while Singapore Airlines are expected to cough up to $3,347,559.

The investigation was initiated in January 2008 following Cathay Pacific’s application for leniency.

“In the case of SAA, the settlement agreement also settles cases against the airline with regards to collusion concerning international air cargo surcharges and domestic route prices and pricing strategies during the 2010 Soccer World Cup held in South Africa,” the commission added, while noting that no findings were made against the SAA in respect of these two matters. The commission’s investigation into cargo fuel surcharges was referred to the competition Tribunal in July 2010, and SAA has offered its full cooperation to the commission in its on-going investigations and prosecution of both matters before the tribunal. Similarly, Singapore Airlines undertook to be the same with regards to the Far East matter, the commission commented.

(SOURCE: I-Net bridge)

The construction of a new terminal at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) is set for completion by the end of 2012, says Transport Minister Amos Kimunya. The new terminal will allow JKIA to handle 9 million passengers each year, up from the current traffic of about 6 million passengers, Mr Kimunya told journalists on Thursday in Nairobi.

In June 2010, the Kenya Airports Authority received a loan of Sh15.5 billion for the expansion of the international airport. The funding, including a Sh480 million grant from the Luxembourg-based European Investment Bank, will also be used to upgrade an existing terminal and set up a new baggagehandling system.

The new terminal and a multi-storey parking facility is the second phase of the JKIA’s expansion, the minister said. In September 2006, Sh3.2 billion was spent to almost double the number of aircraft-parking bays to 43.

Mr Kimunya added that plans were under way to construct a second runway to handle the ever-increasing number of passengers.

African airlines have condemned a move by the European Commission to blacklist airlines from 14 African countries, a move that effectively bans them from flying to Europe.

African Airline Association (Afraa), which has its headquarters in Nairobi, was particularly incensed with the European Commission for including Lam Mozambique — one of its member airlines with impeccable safety records —in the blacklist.

“Lam Mozambique airline’s safety record is impeccable,” protested Afraa’s secretary General Dr Elijah Chingosho.

“Since the company was established in 1980, it has not had a single major accident, and since 1989 there have been no accidents of any kind involving Lam Mozambique aircrafts.”

Lam Mozambique was the only

major airlines in the continent that appeared in the list that blacklisted airlines from 14 other African countries with poor safety record from flying to European Union countries. In some of the countries, all their airlines were banned from flying into Europe.

Afraa said this move gives undue advantage to the European carriers operating in Africa, since they will take the market share of the banned carriers. Chingosho also called the move discriminatory, considering that other European carriers have had major accidents involving substantial damage to aircrafts and fatal injuries, yet they are still allowed to operate within Europe. Besides, they are also allowed to operate within the African airspace.

“Irrespective of what the European Commission public relations exercise of attempting to pass

New First-class Feasts for Etihad

blanket banning as a solution to safety concerns is, it amounts to nothing other than a blunt instrument that constraints the development of a viable African air transport industry,” he said.

While publishing the blacklist dated April 20 in the European Commission Mobility and Transport website, the Commission noted the move to blacklist these airlines is meant to improve air transport safety in Europe, adding that this is done in consultation with member states’ aviation safety authorities. It also says the affected airlines are those that operate in conditions below essential safety levels.

Chefs are in first-class kitchens on Etihad Airways flights to Sydney, Melbourne, London and Paris, and alongside the staff is a new menu from the airline’s Mezoon Grille.

The menu includes rib-eye steak, hammour and beef tenderloin. There’s a choice of desserts (warm cheese souffle, lemongrass panna cotta, triple chocolate cake, pandan sago with passionfruit coulis) or warm Middle Eastern semolina pudding with saffron lemon syrup.

The degustation menu available to first-class passengers has been replaced with a Taste of Arabia theme that includes a mixed grill with aromatic rice, harissa and yoghurt sauce.

The airline won the Skytrax award for first-class catering last year and will introduce chefs on its Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Geneva, Narita, Seoul, Brussels, Milan, Munich, Casablanca and New York flights this year.

NEWS

EU decision to blacklist African airliners criticised

9

feature

10

Johannesburg: World Class African City Joburg is the quality of life cosmopolitan sophistication

vibrant heart of South Africa, providing and low cost of living. It’s a diverse city with a unique blend of first-world and emerging market vitality.

feature

11

J

ohannesburg or Jozi as most locals know it, has become well known as a region of impressive multilingual richness and cultural diversity, where one of the world’s richest gold-bearing reefs was discovered under the sweeping savannah plains. According to last Census findings, the majority of people who live in the region speak English, Zulu, Sotho or Xhosa as their home tongue, with Afrikaans, Zulu, Sotho or English as a secondary language. Ever since its birth 125 years ago, Joburg has remained a city of prospects, commerce and potential.

Ever thought of how the area of Johannesburg actually began? On a vast undulating grassy plain, interspersed with ridges and small hills in an area known as the Witwatersrand, which is named after the white water springs that coursed the land. But it wasn’t until an Australian prospector by the name George Harrison, arrived in Jozi, that the mineral wealth of the

Witwatersrand became apparent.

Johannesburg was then born in 1886, after George had sold his gold claim for just £10. He would never have envisaged the significant world history that would unfold here in the province of Gauteng, place of gold.

[

]

Itatiat earchil luptatu rempore pudio. Nam, as estrum autendus alignim invelique pere es ad utent eum eate nulpa quam volessi

Even today Joburg continues to attract those looking for opportunity – it’s a city populated by people who have come to realise their dreams.

As the most important metro in terms of contribution to provincial and national gross domestic

product (GDP), Johannesburg is a leading and robust market for investors, distributors and retailers in Gauteng.

On average, Johannesburg’s residents enjoy a higher standard of living than people living in South Africa’s other major cities.

Large numbers of people come to the city to find work, as job creation in Johannesburg has been positive over this period, with more people employed today than in 1996. On average, Johannesburg’s workforce has more money and skills than before.

However, more people are living in poverty too, as the growing economy attracts people from more depressed areas, increasing the number of the poor and unemployed. Ever since 1996, Johannesburg is delivering on economic growth: an increase in per capita GDP together with an improvement in the distribution of

feature

12

income are two necessary conditions for an improvement in the average standard of living.

Johannesburg’s contribution to South Africa’s total exports has increased slightly since the late 1990s, on average from 27 to 28 percent in this millennium.

Johannesburg is now designated the largest Urban Development Zone (UDZ) in South Africa, comprising just under 18km2 of residential, industrial and commercial areas in and around the central business district. This initiative is expected to boost current efforts to regenerate Johannesburg’s inner city, as developers and property investors take advantage of tax concessions to build and renovate buildings in designated areas.

Since 1994 Johannesburg has made remarkable progress in many key areas, such as economic growth and personal income.

It has been the most important source of job creation in the country and, excluding the effect of significant migration to the city, most indicators show that the quality of life for most of Johannesburg’s inhabitants has improved markedly.

While there are still significant challenges ahead, not least of which is to be able to match the pace of service delivery to household growth, the city has built an excellent and solid platform to build on over the next few years.

Mil idebitia et volupta tibusam harum esequam alit porro maxim eat labo. Ut qui ommolor magniam, qui consecupta il id etur, ipidelit aut pe volor moditas sequis aliquam as ant earchiciis volupti occus earum ne a es des ut reicatq uisit, occus eossunt am ullaut quibus vendandae nonem ium ex exped qui a quibusci alit lautas solorro videndenis aligendus, quo volorrore et aut experio. Hictem con repella boreici musaesed estio omnia con pero et expliquas eum evelis modias dolupta voloriori volum, omnim quame eicid minto con ressitatium alicabo raepera doluptatquid quunt ut evel inctemqui cus non por a sunt as iunt lam faceri net eum vollit accum sint dolorum inctatem fuga. Nem. Ut fugianimenda eum ratur secepud aeperendist mostibus dolorporem nimolorest, con eatus ent aspersped ullacea sed magni teculparum es as alitas perrum audi dolore dolore maximi, te nis ande et quam et omnihil lecturi oribearum remos volupta sperrovit quibus, a volorup itatur si repeliam re con porerero to quo exces im qui optaqui tem comnis invelec tiissi untorit occae dolessitate debis excepud aerore volora consequ isquidis reperiti blaborumquid mo corero int aut veliqui comnihil ma eaqui ipsa con conecus erat veles vende vollibus.

Ut magnimi, intur solore dus esciaest, quaspitaqui ullacer cimpor as asitam hilicim estis sitat ellatur aut re et, con cusdanto el maio quo culpa eatur?

feature

13

Cusandae eic to officatur aut experov iditat qui atem fugita sit erum eic to berum illor asimus, conet quam, comnis si qui ducim rem cum repre ius dist labo. Nem rectur sitaepero venectium apientest eatiisciam recti nis et eossus a voluptio mi, ut dolecto ritatur?

Od mi, nis sit alique pre voloriatibus explique pa dollabores quibus esequi dem que in reperum eossitis acepedipsant mos eost, occus, tem fugit volorum earia velecep eribus molesto commos volut volecta con nobit eos denita sit eatiusdam aut landeli gnatur, tectiae. Et molora conecuptis mod et odit hilit modis ut rest ulparci ationes ecatur, vent aut unt fuga. Id maio officaborem reperferisi adis acilit qui officab oreprenis eum etur, aspidusdandi nihilibus et aute nita num repudae stiunt qui quas repe porum eos aliqui ut abor sam fugia nulloribust fugia cum harchil ea autet quo ipsandam, te officae autat invello remporrum, sit et es illatur ma pore ipitibu sdandae pos ea ent maxim quas int, eatem rehent.

Gita qui dis aspedit officat ea demodist, andit et pa con res eaqui alique iniasim invenisit lam hit qui reribus estrunt.

Igenimillo opta volori dolut et lam nonectia dendisquiae vellest, ommo derum fugiamus delit, tet ad quossim quation est, opti nobis ad mosam qui te sedis aut doluptae veniscimus, et ipsaeperibus ex eumquam experorro eum eum latem simus.

Ti to to est et quiam voloruntion pores dolores sitiam acipsam quae quas magnimus et laudici istrum, con porum que nulluptia inciliq uaspiet quam, eat ulparchicim incturia quam nobitest lici consequam es exerias as moditaquae ratem et aut odi te sunt omnimpo ressint volo que voloribusam rem ist pa vendae dit velessit quam qui tendi consed maio in et accus illore reptamendit plam vidi tem volorio nserum fuga. Ga. Ecesequis eosseque es dessimust, officta cum volorposam eossunt.

Fugita sum evel et hiti a sam laut fugias eat velent vel imus, untus, quod maximus et acea consenitatem

Comnimi, quossedias dem rerio. Rempost eos sequia delit eaquia vidit aut ommos accus doluptas quiscia eari cus inverspienis exceperum, consed qui quas modicias rernatiis eaquost, occullitatur magnihita se con nus, temquam entiam quam sandus si unto dolecep udaerum inullit, nonsequ iderferitio. Itae autae aceatur?

Iscium venecea dias rem nonem ratium in prore quam faceptus archilit ut aut audae pra duntio que seque lacepta volores rehendis minctur aut ad et aut por as aut es qui volesec aborestiam, occusti isciatur?

Bis utatur sum quis nos nis simin platibus aut aut et inimet fugias exerit et erate odipsunt odi derum hil in plautem labore, offictest, que moluptam sequati omnis et maximin cum eum andem fugit ad experae rchictiatia veniscias ma prerit est as doluptae nihil incte liciet accus aditect intioriam undae etum fugit porrovit reressunt autam nobist quia volor sundi rehent aut volut rem et, odiam, officto comnis doluptat assit haribus molorrum velest, sunt.

Sa ad que niste eumquiae nem cusandiat.

Atqui rerunt quuntur simusanto dolut velenit es dictiam, comnimi, veriaecto beate cum qui cus dolori blatibusae volum ium fuga. Nam volest, coreperum que magnis min pro blandia nis ea velit fugiae. Nam, solessum quam con con pa quo conse re pa sequae cor ant iderchi ciistruptis essimag nisitatur, qui cus as doluptae poste et expe et aut ex eum quidentiore comnis el milluptur, omnis eumquissum et quam coreiur as destruptatur sincit es nonse landio. Os et, venis resciisqui doloria nihilibus dia dolorestes aped ullabor seroviderro eaque voluptat undipsam quiate vollupis enimin pre voluptam reptatur antur soluptatem hicidus il in ex expere, ut atecte pe conserc illati odi cus et atur, es nessin num si quiaspi citasimet aceptat essim illit excessus soloribus aut quate nullisit apictem porum, aspedit exerum qui illaborem fuga. Nem nobit, omnim nobitatque quia qui a alit officiis aut aliquas inciet molles int.

Ibus dolori conectatem aut facepre riassi dit laut

15 feature

moluptatem quas sinimpor acia quam, qui nobis nus,

• What is your Johannesburg- Dar es Salaam Schedule?

PW 701 JNB DAR 23:50 04:20 PW 700 DAR JNB 20:20 22:50 • How many times a week does Precision Air operate and on what days?

4 times a week Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays • What aircraft does Precision Air use on the Johannesburg route?

Boeing 737-300 • Visa requirements for South African passport holders?

South African passport holders do require a visa for Tanzania. Visa’s cost $50.00 and can be issued on arrival in Dar es Salaam or through the Tanzanian High Commission in Pretoria • Are there any shops open in the domestic terminal at 05h00 in the morning?

Yes, after clearing customs probably by 05h30, there are places that are already open at that time for some breakfast.

• Are there any places to exchange money that early in the morning?

Yes, you can exchange money 24 hours • When checking in Johannesburg do the passengers get issued with 2 boarding cards for connecting flights?

Yes, passengers receive two boarding passes when they check in Johannesburg.

• Do passengers’ luggages get checked through to their end destination if they are booked on connecting flights?

Yes, luggage is checked through to the passengers’ end destination. However, passengers might be asked after customs just to identify their bags as part of a security check.

• What is the baggage allowance?

Dar es Salaam: 2 piece / 23kgs per piece Other destinations: 1 piece / luggage can’t exceed 23kgs • What are the approximate taxes to Tanzanian destinations?

Dar es Salaam approx taxes: R1300.00 p/p JRO & ZNZ approx taxes: R1400 p/p Please note that this is subject to change.

• What is the Minimum and Maximum stay on the IT Fares?

Min stay: No minimum stay Max stay: 1 year • What will be the charge for no shows?

Yes, $50.00 • Will Precision Air be issuing Business Class IT Fares?

We are currently working on this request with head office and will advise the trade should this be approved.

For more information contact Holiday Aviation: Tel: +27 11 289 8082 Fax: +27 11 289 8072 E-mail: precision@holidayaviation.co.za

•Gateway to Africa’s markets.

• Africa’s economic powerhouse and one of the world’s leading emerging market economies.

• Stable democracy and well-structured regulatory environment.

• Quality of institutions, recognised in global competitiveness surveys.

• Financial market sophistication and home to Africa’s largest stock exchange.

• Enabling environment and incentives for investors on national, regional and city levels.

• Excellent transport and telecommunications infrastructure services.

• Freight and logistics hub: Africa’s largest inland port, SA’s largest container depot and Africa’s largest freight and passenger airport hub.

• Low cost of living and least expensive African city.

• Shopping mecca for sub-Saharan Africa and strong cross-border trade.

feature

17

feature

18

ELEGANT COUNTRY LIVING IN THE CITY

Enjoy great sundowners while watching the sunset over the lake in order to experience some tranquil touch to the already magical African surroundings.

feature

19

A

t the end of a shady country lane, in the historic village of Irene, lies African Pride Irene Country Lodge - a place where historic charm meets exceptional modern luxury. Set overlooking a beautiful lake surrounded by a 120 year old dairy farm and 2 golf courses, the 74room retreat is the epitome of elegant country living located between Johannesburg and Pretoria, and only 25 minutes from OR Tambo International Airport.

The 13 year old lodge, a celebrated icon in Centurion’s Irene village, is a multifunctional property suitable for both business and leisure. Perfect for a romantic getaway with stunning lakeside views of the sunset; ideal for a family leisure break with exciting activities for the children or simply as a serene place to hold meetings and conferences, African Pride Irene Country Lodge offers an unforgettable experience.

feature

20

Accommodation The lodge’s 74 rooms are elegantly designed with African Mahogany wood furniture complimented by rich textured fabrics in earthy tones creating a warm ambience, reminiscent of the comforts of an old countryside manor but reflecting a unique South African flavour. Amenities include 24-hour room service, 24 hour gym, complimentary wireless internet access, mini bar and 16 hour restaurant service.

Camdeboo Day Spa The lodge’s Camdeboo Day Spa & Restaurant with its enclosed delightful garden, shaded by huge oak trees and “white stinkwood” from which the name Camdeboo derives, has guests kicking back and unwinding far from ‘the madding crowd.’ A haven of luxury and repose, the intimate spa offers skin and Conference Facilities at Irene Country Lodge body treatments guaranteed to help guests relax Irene Country Lodge and Irene Dairy Farm offer great and refresh. conference facilities set in the calm and relaxed countryside in Centurion. Irene has six conference Restaurants at Irene Country Lodge rooms seating between 8 and 110 delegates. The Food lovers will have much to appreciate at Irene seventh venue, SAX Arena at Southdowns Estate can Country Lodge’s two restaurants, The Meadow seat up to 700 people theatre style. The lodge’s Green and Camdeboo. Executive Chef Ryan Houston experienced team delivers a highly professional and and his team offer a selection of fine cuisine with seamless service. buffet and a la carte options to delight the palette.

Vegetarians and meat lovers alike will enjoy the Weddings at Irene Country Lodge menu range. Guests can also enjoy sundowners at Overlooking one of Gauteng’s most beautiful lakes and the gazebo or Lakeside Lounge, watching the sunset set in a lush meadow, with old world rustic charm, over the lake lending a tranquil touch to the already Irene Country Lodge offers the perfect setting for a magical surroundings. romantic evening wedding or an afternoon garden wedding. The lodge’s 74 elegantly designed en-suite

Simbavati River Lodge 4* Timbavati Nature Reserve, South Africa Package includes: • 2 nights’ accommodation • 3 meals per day • 2 open vehicle game drives per day Excludes all drinks and extras.

www.highline.co.za

Rail Europe is the leading distributor of European rail products worldwide. Its range of products includes passes for one or more countries as well as point to point tickets and reservations.

Make the most of your journey: travel by Train!

For information and booking, please consult your Rail Europe representative in your country

Tel. : +33 1 534 212 235 www.gsa-fictifadress.com

feature

23

The Irene Market situated on the serene and leafy grounds of the Smuts House Museum is also another popular attraction. With more than 300 stalls, the market is a gathering of artists and patrons; crafters and collectors; home industries and connoisseurs from far and wide. It’s held every second and last Saturday of the month.

rooms offer guests the ultimate luxury accommodation to complete a special day. The dreamy bridal suite for the newlyweds offers the cherry on the cake to Irene’s wedding package.

Activities There’s never a dull moment as Irene village offers a variety of activities. Spending a weekend at the lodge will afford you the opportunity of visiting the Irene Dairy Farm a 120 year working Dairy with the cows being milked every afternoon at 15:00, the Smuts House Museum, the Rietvlei Nature Reserve and playing golf at Irene or Centurion Golf courses.

Forgotten to buy a present or needing some quick retail therapy? Southdowns Mall is around the corner.

NEWS

24

AFRICAN FEMALE PILOT GEARS BEYOND THE SKY

She had to be persistent to get a shot - female pilots are rare in Africa — but today she flies Boeing 737s all across the continent; this is Cpt. Aluel Bol Aluenge’s story...

and male pilots is rapidly changing. Around 30% of women who graduate from initial pilot training courses continue studying for aircraft pilot license.

Most airlines are reluctant to employing female pilots due to such reasons as possible absence periods, such as maternity leave. However, even in such situations women are fully capable of sustaining and even increasing their level of skill by using real time flight simulators,”- commented the CEO of AviationCV.com Skaiste Knyzaite.

Cpt. Aluel became the first Sudanese woman to fly an airplane in the African continent where female pilots are rare. ‘‘Lately we receive more and more attention and enquiries about aviation training from women.

Female pilots have absolutely the same rights and opportunities as the male ones. If they are well trained and highly professional they will always be sought-after by employers. Female pilots are fully aware of this that is why they take firm steps into the aviation industry,” - says the General Director of ‘Baltic Aviation Academy’ Egle Vaitkeviciute.

Cpt. Aluel remains a role model now instead of a fashion model that she was battling to become back then, and she brings back memories of other brave women during the struggle period - years of horrendous conflict when many courageous women joined their brothers and husbands in the battlefields and fought alongside them.

Cpt. Aluel adds to those Southern Sudanese women who have done something extraordinary, these include Rebecca Nyandeng de Mabior, Awut Deng Achuil, Ann Itto and many others. These influential women have proved that women can also be as successful as men especially in male dominated fields.

AviationCV.com states that with the growing attention to flight safety, increasingly high pilot qualification requirements, growth in passenger flows and an already felt shortage of experienced pilots the number of female pilots will only rise.

For this reason, there are millions of young African women with aspirations of doing something extraordinary in their lives like Cpt. Aluel’s passion and desire to be a pilot.

25 NEWS

A

lthough the African aviation industry now employs more women, men still tend to dominate in the pilot market. With the air transportation becoming more intensive and the growing need to eliminate schedule disruptions, airlines pay attention not only to re-training their existing pilots and addressing young cadets, but also to promoting and encouraging women pilots.

Captain Aluel Bol Aluenge’s journey has taken her from Africa to America and back again, and from a young refugee to a commercial airline pilot.

Along the way, Cpt Aluel, a 27year old Sudanese has endured a greater breadth of experiences than most people and that’s how her story is different.

Despite tragedies that had dominated her life, starting with the death of her mother when she was only 9 years, and the passing of a father a few months after she graduated from Florida Memorial University in 2006, Cpt. Aluel excelled against all the odds. She became licensed as an airline pilot in 2007 and was instantaneously employed by Ethiopian Airlines.

Captain Aluel presently flies Boeing 737s all across the African continent.

Cpt. Aluel’s family migrated to Renton, WA, USA in 1991 after being driven off by then the destructive conflict in her homeland Sudan- the Sudan civil war that cost two million lives and displaced over five million.

With free will to think about her future, Cpt. Aluel first sought fashion model for a career and won a talent show at the age of 16. She later left college to pursue a career in fashion in New York and London however, she would always be turned down and told that, “we already have someone who looks like you,” referring to her dark skin color. Sometimes the looka-like would have light skin and curly hair, but black is black.

After failing to acquire her dream job in fashion, Cpt. Aluel returned to college to finish her degree in International Business Management in a bid to get a job somewhere else other than fashion. However, while in school she met some students who were studying to be pilots. Cpt. Aluel, like any other young woman in Southern Sudan who dreams to be something else but are not allowed to pursue their dreams because of the parents’ desire for cattle, had always dreamt of flying an airline someday.

For that reason, after hearing from aeronautical science students Cpt. Aluel’s childhood dream was brought back to life; she became interested in it and decided to change her major from International Business Management to Aeronautical Science. She worked hard in years to come and got her Aeronautical Science degree. She spent another year preparing to get a license and was licensed as commercial airline pilot after which she moved back to Sudan, thinking she might get a chance to fly small planes that side.

Her acquaintances however urged her to apply within the fast growing Ethiopian Airlines.

She had to be persistent to get a shot — female pilots are rare in Africa — but today she flies Boeing 737s all across the continent.

“Despite the existing stereotype suggesting that aircraft piloting is a manly job, the ratio between female

business

26

Venturing into Africa -- mapping the investment landscape Riti nem velent pres volorerum sum ea vendam fugitionse explabo rerruntemped ut ut labo. Ex est

Written by: Gyongyi King – Caveo Fund Solutions Nick Janse van Rensburg – Investment Solutions

South African pension funds have since 2008 been able to invest 5% of their assets in Africa, but what options are available to institutional investors to access investments in these markets?

The biggest advantages Africa offers investors are future growth prospects and favorable demographics.

Africa is large, with more than 45% of its 1 billion population under the age of 24, and recent economic growth across the continent has generally resulted in better living conditions, greater access to drinking water, lower childhood mortality and, most importantly, more children attending school. Higher levels of education are likely to drive future economic growth. However, despite this positive outlook, Africa continues to be plagued by pockets of political and economic instability. It is therefore important to choose an investment manager that can identify and mitigate these risks as far as possible.

Table 1 below shows the breakdown of global growth and global growth forecasts by the IMF by region.

Table 1: GDP Growth per region Region

2009

2010

2011*

2012**

2013**

2014**

2015**

Major advanced economies (G7)

-4.2%

2.9%

1.3%

1.7%

2.2%

2.5%

2.6%

Euro Zone

-4.3%

1.8%

1.6%

1.1%

1.5%

1.7%

1.7%

Asia

7.2%

9.5%

8.2%

8.0%

8.4%

8.5%

8.6%

Latin America and the Caribbean

-1.7%

6.1%

4.5%

4.0%

4.1%

4.1%

4.0%

Middle East and North Africa

2.6%

4.4%

4.0%

3.6%

4.3%

4.8%

4.9%

Sub-Saharan Africa

2.8%

5.4%

5.2%

5.8%

5.5%

5.4%

5.2%

*IMF estimate GDP ** IMF projected GDP There are also large differences between the economies. According to the World Bank, the total GDP per capita of the richest 10 African countries is 23.8 times that of the poorest 10. This is also reflected in the size of the stock exchanges. Excluding SA, there are 22 stock exchanges in Africa, but only four (Egypt, Kenya, Morocco and Nigeria) make up more than 80% of the market capitalisation. Although Africa is sometimes seen as a single investment destination, Table 2 below shows the relatively low correlation between some of the larger stockexchanges including SA’s JSE. Table 2: Correlation of African stock exchanges Egypt

Morocco

Nigeria

Mauritius

Tunisia

Kenya

South Africa

1

0.25

0.13

0.26

0.22

0.33

0.23

Morocco

0.25

1

0.14

0.18

0.32

0.16

0.28

Nigeria

0.13

0.14

1

0.13

0.03

0.04

0.01

Mauritius

0.26

0.18

0.13

1

0.22

0.24

0.26

Tunisia

0.22

0.32

0.03

0.22

1

0.20

0.31

Kenya

0.33

0.16

0.04

0.24

0.20

1

0.15

South Africa

0.23

0.28

0.01

0.26

0.31

0.15

1

Egypt

Source: Bloomberg, weekly from Sept. 2002 to Sept. 2011

Copyright Š 2010 CWT

BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER PRESENTS A UNIQUE CHALLENGE EVERY TIME.

WITH CWT, MEETINGS AND EVENTS HAPPEN SEAMLESSLY. C A R L SO N WAGO N L I T T R AV E L

MEETINGS & EVENTS SOLUTIONS CWT is a global leader in travel management, focused on helping you derive greater value from your travel programme. We offer a range of services to help integrate meetings and events into your travel program to optimise savings, enhance process control, improve risk management, and enrich attendee experiences. CWT Meetings & Events has the global and local expertise to handle all of your company's meeting and event needs. All good reasons for us to get together.

For more information contact Sharon Stoneley on 011 628 2300 or email meetings@carlsonwagonlit.co.za

www.carlsonwagonlit.co.za

business

28

As with SA strategies, Africa investors can choose between active investment management and passive indexation. However, unlike other regional markets, there isn’t a widely accepted or utililsed market benchmark for the continent. This makes the construction of passive portfolios inherently challenging. As you would expect, international index providers such as MSCI, DOW Jones and FTSE provide Africa benchmarks but the variation in terms of country allocations and underlying constituents is vastly different. For example, the S&P Africa ex-SA has 175 constituents across 10 countries, whereas the FTSE/JSE Africa 30 comprises just 30 stocks in six countries.

The FTSE/JSE Africa 30 tends to be the most commonly quoted and utilised benchmark domestically to assess market performance.

This is primarily because investors are generally familiar with FTSE/JSE indices but, importantly, the Africa 30 is not widely used as a reference point by active managers regarding country/sector and share positions.

Passive index products are provided by a number of the large banks in SA (Nedbank and Standard Bank) and also by Old Mutual Global Index Trackers. The composition of these is very different, as are their return profiles.

Table 3 below shows the difference in the constituents between the main Africa indices: Table 3: Benchmark compositions S&P Africa (ex-SA)

Dow Jones Africa (ex-SA)

FTSE ALL Africa 30

MSCI Africa (ex-SA)

MSCI EFM Africa (ex-SA)

Botswana

1.60%

-

-

-

-

Egypt

28.70%

27.40%

39.40%

52.80%

41.80%

Ghana

0.60%

-

-

-

0.50%

Ivory Coast

1.60%

-

-

-

-

Kenya

6.10%

1.90%

6.70%

11.00%

9.30%

Mauritius

3.50%

-

4.10%

3.60%

15.50%

Morocco

23.40%

18.20%

22.30%

-

3.00%

Nigeria

31.80%

24.20%

25.50%

29.00%

24.30%

Tunisia

2.20%

-

2.00%

3.60%

3.00%

Zambia

0.50%

-

-

-

-

Other*

-

28.30%

-

-

2.60%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

175

33

30

33

38

Country

# of stocks

*includes companies listed outside Africa, but with the majority of their operations conducted within Africa

In the active management space, a small but growing number of funds focus on Africa. Before 2008, few vehicles were available in the market, Investec, Momentum and African Alliance being the primary providers.

Over the years, however, most of the large SA investment houses, including Coronation, Sanlam, Old Mutual and STANLIB, have launched offerings. Those without an Africa fund have launches in the pipeline and by the end of 2012, all the large asset managers are expected to have representative products. The Investec Africa fund, launched in December 2005, has the longest track record. It weathered the 2008 crisis and as a first mover it has captured a large share of the estimated R11 billion invested in domestic Africa funds.

Outside the larger investment houses, a number of alternative-investment managers have identified the opportunity on the continent and launched niche products.

Resources across the investment teams vary significantly, as do the experience levels and local presence.

However, all managers, whether in large investment houses or boutiques, travel extensively within the continent, spending much of their time visiting companies and understanding country dynamics -- economic and political. This level of specialisation and travel costs tends to make Africa-focused portfolios more expensive than domestic ones. The common misconception is that there is very little differentiation between Africa funds, with all the managers buying Nigerian banks and Egyptian construction stocks. This is not the case and an analysis of the fund universe shows significantly different allocations on all levels: country, sector and stock. The lack of any meaningful benchmark means managers are not compelled to have any particular country or stock exposures, which has led to vastly different performance over the years.

As an example, Table 4 below shows the performance of the best and worst domestically based funds in 2008, 2009 and 2010.

Year

Best

Worst

2008

-33%

-48%

2009

31%

-2%

2010

31%

14%

While returns vary, a typical manager, perhaps surprisingly, has the same standard deviation as that of the FTSE/JSE ALSI. This is, of course, not the only risk that needs to be evaluated. Investing in Africa also brings liquidity and capacity considerations. While liquidity has improved considerably over the years, the markets are still relatively immature and affected by global sentiment and political and regional sentiment.

This needs to be closely monitored and managed. Also, capacity levels vary among the managers and the opportunity set becomes constrained as they gather assets. Graph 1 shows the risk versus return for the various managers over the past 12 months, with the size of the bubbles representing assets under management of each fund.

Graph 1: 12-month risk return scatter plot to end November 2011

The benefits of multi-management are self-evident when considering an example such as the African investment universe. The lack of meaningful benchmarks, liquidity risks, capacity constraints and the differences between the managers mean spreading the investment risk across two or more funds brings obvious diversification and risk- mitigation benefits. The choice of manager is very important. Understanding its investment DNA, team capacity, and how it is approaching the African investment opportunity is key.

Investment Solutions continues to see rising interest in Africa as an investment destination and believes it is a theme worth considering for most investors with a long-term investment horizon.

business

29

business

30

Mi-Fone Celebrates Its African Entrepreneurs

“...join us in the celebration of true African brilliance.

I believe that Africa will enjoy as much inspiration in the next four years as we have seen over the past four...� - Alpesh Patel

[ ] Mi-Fone services Africa has offices and service centers in Johannesburg, Nairobi and Mauritius. Additional support offices are in Dubai, Hong Kong and China.

Telecom markets makes him an industry leader in his field.

Today his brainchild is an innovative, stylish and affordable mobile devices company that places its sole focus on the growing, needs of the mass-market sector within emerging and frontier markets.

In being Africa’s fastest growing mobile devices brand, Mi-Fone is 90+ percent owned

by Africans. The company aims to increase its footprint to over 25 African countries in the very near future and has positioned the Mi-Fone brand as THE “LIFESTYLE “ Enabler brand in order to ensure Africans at the bottom of the pyramid become more productive in their daily lives Mi-Fone is a true Pan African business with offices in South Africa, Kenya, Mauritius and support offices in Dubai, Hong Kong and China. Patel holds a BSc ( Hons ) from the University of Hull, UK and currently maintains a dual residence in Johannesburg, South Africa and Dubai, UAE.

ABOUT MI-FONE Mi-Fone is the first African mobile devices brand established to focus on the growing needs of the mass-market sector throughout Africa.

Mi-Fone services Africa via offices and service centers in Johannesburg, Nairobi and Mauritius. Additional support offices are in Dubai, Hong Kong and China.

The team combines over 20 years of telecom experience in markets such as Africa, Middle East and Asia.

The world’s first exclusively African Mobile Devices brand company, Mi-Fone continues its dynamic movement over the continent by celebrating its 4th year of groundbreaking success. Mi-Fone is serious about reinforcing positive change in Africa. It has rapidly been expanding its footprint and now certainly owns the reputation of being one of Africa’s fastest growing mobile device brands. In just four years, over 1 million handsets have been sold across the continent, generating in excess of $20 million dollars in revenue.

The dream of its visionary leaders has been to connect the continent’s people by putting a mobile phone in the hands of each and every African. Mi-Fone devices are stylish, sleek and affordable. These handsets offer superior functionality that by no means compromise on performance. Mi-Fone is the hip new kid on the block. It has already differentiated itself from other low-cost handset manufacturers with its focus on music, local talent and soon to be launched “Mi-Apps ” store. This will be instrumental in celebrating true African music talent and what it has to offer.

Mi-Fone has already seen the fruits of its efforts by actively sparking new trends in how low-cost smartphones are consumed and believe it will ultimately change the face of mobile technology in Africa.

31 business

M

i-Fone is dedicated to reinforcing positive change in Africa. And during the commemoration of its 4th Birthday during the month of April, it would seem only apt to celebrate the true entrepreneurial spirit and achievements of the founder and CEO of this dynamic, visionary company with none other than Alpesh Patel.

With the launch of the “Mi” brand of mobile devices in April 2008, Patel created a new market category in Telecoms within the emerging mass markets.

Patel is a true veteran of the Telecoms industry. He started his career in the early 1990’s by being one of the pioneers in introducing Mobile Devices into the then unknown Chinese market.

By mid 90’s he moved back to his home in Africa as Regional Director of Harris Microwave Corporation, where he gained immense knowledge of the African Telecommunications arena.

In 2002 Alpesh joined Motorola Mobile Devices as its Regional Manager for Africa where he took the brand to No.1 market share in key markets such as Kenya, DRC, Madagascar and Zambia.

He quickly went on to become Motorola’s Director of Sales for Middle East and Africa and was single handedly responsible for distributing over 5 million handsets within a space of two years. His skill and vast experience within Emerging and Frontier

TRAVEL

32

A Window To The Soul Of South Africa.

The Blue Train has been synonymous with luxury hospitality, tourism and leisure since 1946. It offers a unique way of experiencing some of Southern Africa’s magnificent landscapes and landmarks.

TRAVEL

33

O

n board the train, guests indulge with fine cuisine accompanied by some of the best wines South Africa has to offer. Around-theclock personal Butlers see to the guests’ every need for the duration of their experience; be it in the comfort of their private suites or at any one of our exquisite lounges.

Pre-departure lounges Your holiday starts the moment you step into any of The Blue Train’s pre-departure lounges in Pretoria or Cape Town. Guests are requested to check in an hour before departure Suite facilities On The Blue Train luxury assumes a new dimension, becoming the working definition of everything your heart desires. You’ll feel it from the moment you step into your suite, transformed from an elegant, spacious lounge by day, into a sanctuary of comfort and slumber by night.

The De Luxe suite offers you a choice between twin beds (with shower) or double beds (with bath).

Luxury suites are more spacious and offer twin or double beds with bath facilities.

All suites on board The Blue Train come equipped with a writing desk, ideally positioned next to the window, where you can note the view in style. Each suite is a world on its own, with an individually controlled air-conditioning system and a private entertainment

centre with a choice of movie channels and radio stations. The Luxury Suite takes the choice even further, with an inviting selection of compact disks and movies on video and DVD. You can also tune into the driver’s eye view camera, and watch the world ahead as you swiftly glide along.

The Blue Train is synonymous with the luxury of personal service that comes as standard with a dedicated Butler at your beck and call to ensure the ultimate definition of luxury in motion.

Fine dining The Blue Train provides fine dining and the gourmet cuisine is complemented by the carefully selected, best South African wines.

All meals are freshly prepared on board the train

by Executive Chefs. In keeping with the classically romantic ambience of the 42-seater dining car, lunch is a casual affair, while dinner is formal. Men are requested to wear a jacket and tie or dress in traditional attire and ladies are requested to dress in elegant evening wear or traditional attire.

Elegant lounge facilities The warm ambience of the elegant lounge car with its large windows allows for panoramic views of the passing countryside.

Enjoy high tea in the warm surroundings of the lounge car or meet for a predinner drink.

TRAVEL

34

Should you prefer the more relaxing ambience of a gentleman’s pub atmosphere, then the club car is the ideal place to be, offering impeccable service with its card tables, a small library and a fullyequipped bar. Here guests can watch a short film about the areas, which the train is passing. After dinner guests can also enjoy a Cuban cigar before they retire to their suites.

Description of route and off-the train excursions Pretoria – Cape Town – Pretoria The route between Pretoria and Cape Town is a 27-hour journey through some of the most diverse and spectacular scenery the sub-continent has to offer. Southbound, off-the train excursions include the diamond town of Kimberley where one can explore the Big Hole and the Diamond Museum.

Northbound, visit the historical town of Matjiesfontein where the Victoria buildings and original nineteenth century London lampposts impart to the traveller, the uncanny sense of entering a colonial time warp – an oasis suspended in a different age.

Business “Unsual” - Conference Facility The Blue Train’s conference facility offers a venue for up to 22 delegates. Equipped with audio visual and technical equipment for a high-level business meeting or small conference, this is surely one of the most spectacular meeting venues for the discerning businessperson. The Conference car can also be Tailor-made charters adapted for smaller meetings offering a more relaxed Why not charter The Blue Train for strategic atmosphere.The Blue Train offers far more than just meetings, product launches, VIP breakfasts, lunches, a journey. It is an all-inclusive experience offering a dinner and cocktail parties, weddings and more. combination of unsurpassed luxury travel, five starYou can also book a charter with a difference such accommodation, fine cuisine, personalised butler as a Golfing or Safari charter through the unique service and routes that offer breathtaking views of the beauty of the “Valley of the Olifants” along the countryside. So take a journey into a timeless world Kruger National Park, or to other attractions of the of grace, elegance and romance, where spectacular Mpumalanga or Kwazulu-Natal Provinces. Charters scenery stirs your imagination and luxurious comfort are not limited to the charter options or the routes soothes your body and soul. mentioned above.

TRAVEL

35

The Blue Train Accolades For over half a century South Africa’s Blue Train has enjoyed an international reputation as one of the world’s pre-eminent travelling experiences. Voted CondÉ Nast Traveller Readers’ FAVOURITE SPECIALIST TRAIN at the 12th Annual Readers' Travel Awards, held at The Royal Institution of Great Britain in London on Wednesday 1st September 2010. The Blue Train was also voted the 2011 World’s Leading Luxury Train at the 18th Annual World Travel Awards, the third consecutive year it has enjoyed this honour.

The Blue Train – Unique Attributes • Strong heritage • Panoramic size windows • Modern and Technological advancement of the product (Driver’s Eye View camera, unique coupling, air-cushion suspension system, TV monitor in the suites,improved automated entertainment system, GPS) • Travel throughout day and night (don’t have to stop for our guests to enjoy a peaceful night’s rest) • On board entertainment (TV monitors in room enabling guests to watch movies, selection of music channels and radio stations to listen to etc.)

• Unique conference facility • On board boutique selling exquisite jewellery pieces and Blue Train branded mementos • Luxurious, comfortable experience

The Blue Train adds these awards to an already array list of accolades, such as being voted for four consecutive years (1998/99/2000/01) and then again for four consecutive years (2008/09/10/11) as the “World’s Leading Luxury Train” by some 250 000 travel agents in 181 countries at the World Travel Awards; the Diners Club International Merit Award for its finest wines for six consecutive years (2006/7/8/9/10); and an Africa Rail Award for “Best Passenger Rail Operator” received in 2011.

Indeed an impressive record of accolades!

For more info, visit us on: Internet: http://www.bluetrain.co.za E-mail: info@bluetrain.co.za Pretoria: Tel: + 27 12 334-8459 Fax:+ 27 12 334-8464 Cape Town: Tel: + 27 21 449-2672 Fax:+ 27 21 449-3338

TRAVEL

36

Anahita – A World Class Sanctuary

Once you have made Anahita your home, you will experience all kinds of refined luxury and elegance

A

nahita World Class Sanctuary is one of the most privileged residential hideaways on earth. Located along a beautiful coastline on the paradise island of Mauritius, this superb selection of private residences has been developed especially for discerning homeowners who are ready to live the life they’ve always wanted in the home of their dreams.

The cascading gem of residential real estate is spread over six kilometres hugging the majestic shoreline between a vast turquoise lagoon, immaculate golf fairways and the bustling village of La Place Belgath.

Once complete, Anahita will comprise 320 luxury residences including both villas and apartments, all conceptualised by an elite team of London-based architects and designers who have earned much

international praise and awards for the development.

The estate’s new Mauritian style, which blends effortlessly with the environment, merges both indoor and outdoor living. Each freehold property has an exceptional view, whether on the fairways of the golf course, the clear waters of the lagoon or ocean, the roaming mountain range or the natural verdant forest.

In 2002 the government of Mauritius introduced the Integrated Resort Scheme (IRS) for provision of upmarket residential properties, with a view to catering for the multifaceted demands of the economy. The opportunity in the property development sector as provided by the IRS attracted the attention of CIEL Properties Ltd, who began the process of developing Anahita World Class Sanctuary.

TRAVEL

38

The success of the Anahita project can be attributed to the support from the government of Mauritius, as well as the role played by the Board of Investment, the diversified and growing services sector that attracts many foreigners, the creation of an enabling and attractive environment for doing business, and the safe and stable economy.

Interested buyers can select from three, four or fivebedroom villas, each with its own living and dining areas, fully equipped kitchen, large veranda, private pool and garden. Or buy an individual plot of land and construct the home of your dreams, inspired by a set of guidelines. Here you may use an architect of your choice or select from a team of Anahitaendorsed architects and designers. Once you have made Anahita your home, you will experience all kinds of refined luxury and elegance – it’s a lifestyle choice complete with all the extras.

With all kinds of activities on and off site, Anahita offers the most extraordinary full resort-living experience. A selection of customised services awaits you and your family. Meals can be prepared in-villa in the privacy of your kitchen by a professional chef, for instance, or a reservation can be made at a gourmet restaurant in the resort.

Other benefits include the Anahita Wellness Centre, which offers massages under the coconut grove or in the privacy of your residence.

There is also a fine selection of boutiques, an incredible infinity pool and all the beautiful beaches

close by. Or get down to the fitness centre that boasts a tennis courts and a kids’ club.

Lovers of water sports can indulge in a number of different activities such as kite surfing, water skiing, sailing, boating and fishing. There’s also horse riding, quad biking, nature walks or archery, located on a private and secluded nature reserve 15 minutes by car inland.

TRAVEL

39

A major draw card and highlight of the estate is Anahita’s 18-hole, 72-par golf course designed to USGA standards by South African champion Ernie Els. “We’re very proud of the golf course that we’ve created here in this beautiful ocean-side setting in Mauritius. It is an exciting project to be involved in, and right from the start we knew this was an amazing opportunity to build something really special,” says Els, looking out over the course, as it winds its way through native trees and across rocky outcrops, offering unforgettable views of the Indian Ocean. “We wanted to make sure this course had all the right ingredients for a memorable day’s golf.

We wanted to maximise the impact of this wonderful

SPECIAL OFFER MOMBASA

Since 1991

Leisure Golf Club, Nyali Golf & Country Club & Vipingo Ridge Golf Resort

Tamarind Village Apartments 4 nights Self Drive Golf Package (3 rounds of golf) From US$ 690 per person

Tamarind Village

Leisure Golf Club

Nyali Golf & Country Club Vipingo Ridge Golf Resort PER PERSON SHARING GOLFER US$ 690 PER PERSON SHARING NON GOLFER US$ 490 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT US$ 270

Validity 1st June-31st August 2012 • Meet and Greet • Arrival airport transfer • 4 nights Tamarind Village**** per person sharing • 3 rounds of golf: Leisure Golf Club, Nyali Golf & Country Club & Vipingo Ridge Golf Resort • 4GPS days self drive in saloon car (Minimum 2 pax) • Shared golf cart with • Excludes – flights (check with Tobs or your favourite Travel Agent), meals, caddie fees etc TOBS LIMITED, LENANA ROAD, PO BOX 20146 (00200) NAIROBI, KENYA TEL: +254 20 2710825/6 FAX: +254 20 2722015 tobs@kenya-golf-safaris.com www.kenya-golf-safaris.com

Since 1991

TRAVEL

41

scenery.

We wanted it to be a challenging and varied design that would appeal to players of all abilities. We wanted it to feature classic and innovative design touches to ensure that every hole is distinctive.�

With a number of attractive purchasing options at Anahita as well as the benefit of certain tax incentives and capital appreciation, new homeowners now have the great opportunity of making their dream home a reality.

Come live in paradise – Anahita welcomes you! www.anahitaproperty.com Email: info@anahitaproperty.com Phone: +230 404 2266

Single Malt Whisky – Dos and Dont’s

A single malt whisky is a fine drink, but there’s etiquette around how to drink it. Here’s just how to get it right next time...

Writes Sarah Dewing

M

inus the priest dressed like Elvis, whisky tasting is a lot like a blind date and a shotgun marriage rolled into one. It starts tentatively with an almost nervous uncertainty over the unknown, but can easily roll into a passionate love affair and a lifelong commitment. Way more than just pouring a slug down your throat, tasting whisky properly require education on protocol and provenance from how to have your whisky and how to

nose it, how to taste it, what to watch out for and how to identify different influences.

Getting it horribly wrong (like pouring a double single malt with coke) won’t unleash zombie highlanders hellbent on decapitating you, but it may detract from your enjoyment and add to your embarrassment levels.

If Robert Louis Stevenson, the renowned Scottish author of Treasure Island, were alive today, not only would he be 161 years old, but also he’d

have plenty to say about what we should and shouldn’t be drinking. First off, before even beginning to open up, he’d recline, put his boots up and ask ever so genially for a Talisker, his preferred whisky even when he emigrated to Samoa. Then he’d lay down the law for the layman:

43 LIFESTYLE

HOW TO TASTE WHISKY Uncork the whisky. Simple really!

Whisky is not drunk via osmosis.

Put the cork back in the bottle once you’ve poured as it keeps the flavours in for the next time.

If you have a proper whisky tasting glass, hold the glass towards the shortened stem. Take the glass and give the whisky and nice swirl. This will coat the glass with the whisky so that when you go to nose it, the aromas are clinging to the glass, which will help you identify them while giving you a chance to heck the viscosity of the whisky by observing the legs on your glass. These are the lines drawn by the whisky once it’s been swirled around. The viscosity informs the drinker about the whisky’s age (the space between the lines) and if you’re really good, the kind of cask used for maturation. More importantly, swirling the whisky also opens up the aromas and enhances the overall experience.

Think of it as foreplay.

On to the main act. Take the glass to your nose or (if Mohammed won’t come to the mountain) put your nose partially into the glass and take a nice big deep sniff of the whisky.

Start trying to identify the different flavours. Whisky allegedly has more tasting notes than wine, so there should be plenty to keep you busy.

Can you identify spicy elements?

How about fruit, sweetness, the pungent influence of peat or the wood echoes of the aging process in American oak casks? You can spend quite a bit of time over-nosing the whisky, getting to know it and getting hints of the type of flavour you can expect when you finally set your taste-buds free.

With a gem of a single malt like a 10-year-old Talisker from the Isle of Skye for example, you’ve able

to indentify in the nose some citrus sweetness, the saltiness of the oysters and the sea and the unmistakable smoked pungency of peat.

Take a small sip to start with and let the whisky settle on your tongue for a few moments, let it roll over the palate covering all your taste buds and the various taste areas of your tongue (sweet at the front, sour on the sides and bitter at the back etc).

This is the tongue feel Scotsmen refer to when talking about their noble beverage.

Your taste buds should really start to get excited and you should begin picking a lot more of the interesting flavours. See if what you identified during the nosing phase has changed now that you’re doing the actual tasting. Is it as full-bodied as you expected?

The Talisker would now be offering up the richness of dried fruit, smoke, syrupy malt flavours and black pepper at the back of the mouth. Once that’s done, you should start to pick up a lot

of aftertaste. Notice how long it lasts. This, the finish, is for many people the climatic defining moment of drinking single malt. Your Talisker, which you’d probably be thinking of having a second or third sip of by now, would maintain a long, sweet, pepper finish, hinting event at an element of chilli.

LIFESTYLE

44

WATER - YAY OR NAY?

The jury is out on whether you should or shouldn’t add water to your whisky. Some believe just a little water releases the flavour and aromas. If a whisky is a little too hot or spicy, a tiny splash of water can tame the beast and take away the edge resulting in a far more enjoyable drink and an enhanced experience. Try nosing the whisky with and without the addition of water and evaluate the difference in aroma. The aroma should be looser but the flavour should be a lot more mellow, with all elements still there but a lot easier on the palate.

DO Ask instead for a tulip-shaped whisky-tasting glass or Blender’s malt glass with a rounded bottom and curved lip designed to both preserve and gently release the glorious scent of a Talisker single malt.

DON’T Add a mixer to a single malt! It’s the whisky-drinking equivalent of asking for ketchup with your kobe beef, or orange juice with your Dom Perignon.

DO Have a splash of water. In the world of beverages, whisky’s a loner and the only other liquid it can stand is water, preferably water from same source of the whisky. The chances of you getting to the Isle of Skye and supping from the springs above the Talisker distillery are about as high as Namibia winning the 2012 IRB Rugby Sevens Tournament in Port ElizabethSouth Africa. So mineral water will do just fine. How much you use is at each drinker’s discretion, but too much and you’ll dilute the Talisker. And you don’t want that. Normally a splash will suffice.

WHISKY DRINKING DO’S AND DONT’S DON’T Allow yourself, the barman or anyone serving you a whisky to throw a bunch of ice in a glass and pour the whisky on top of that. The only time this is permissible is when you’re drinking a blended whisky with a mixer (shame on you) and the flavour is going to be mixed in with sugary soda anyway.

Ice bruises the aroma of a single malt restricting its release.

DO If you want to use ice, have one block, after you add a splash of water to your whisky. The water allows the aroma to come out first before the addition of the ice.

DON’T Drink out of a high-ball. Even a tumbler – which bars mistakenly think are appropriate to serve quality whiskies in – is not the ideal shape. Both kinds of glass have a straight shape and open rounded top, again allowing the whisky’s aromas to escape .

DON’T Drink your whisky out of a clouded glass or any receptacle which doesn’t allow you to see the liquid.

One exception to this rule is if you’re hunting and you have to use a hip flask.

DO Look at the colour of the whisky, depending on the shade of gold or yellow it carries, it will tell you a bit about the aging process.

DON’T Rush! It’s not a tequila slammer. Whisky, like wine, does breathe, so you can sit with one, nurse it for a while and it will improve with time in the glass.

DO Pair whisky with the appropriate food. A whisky of Talisker’s taste profile would be a perfect match for seafood – baked oysters, smoked salmon, kippers etc.

DON’T Take yourself too seriously. Sure there’s etiquette and guidelines but snobbery is a human construct and no fault of the whisky.

DO Enjoy yourself coz that’s the point!

(Caption: Talisker is the most award winning single malt in its class. It is the signature malt in Johnnie Walker Red Label – one of the biggest selling whiskies in the world.)

LIFESTYLE

46

Liz Ogumbo-Regisford Meet Africa’s Fashion Designer, stylist, author and performing artist & lyricist, who has been working towards growing her fashion brand.

T

he sensational newly-wed Mrs Liz OgumboRegisford is not only floating in love but soaring higher heights through her KenSoul stories presented to the globe through her authentic music and A, B, C’s of style! Back to basics she chuckles!

Born and named after her great grandmother, Elizabeth Loye, who was a singer and performer throughout her life, Liz 'Loye' Ogumbo began singing at age four.

Her father taught her songs from the Luo tribe in Kenya, her home language. She was the head-houseentertainer along with her siblings whenever her family had guests over. At about the age of about five, she was singing 'Isabella ma nyar asembo', and sooner than later, she caught up with 'I be lady oh' Fela Kuti.

Liz spent many years growing up in Nairobi, Kenya, and travelling to Kisumu at least every three months to spend time with her grandparents.

After completing her schooling in Kenya, Liz left for the United States to study computer science. She was lucky to receive a music scholarship in Butler College, where she studied and participated in all the music projects/bands within the college. Later she moved back to the East Coast and eventually achieved a

degree in Computer Science from Thompson.

While away from Africa to pursue her studies, much to the dismay of her parents, Liz hit the fashion runways. Both fashion and music as career-orientated hobbies also brought her some pocket change along with popularity.

Liz graced prestigious runways in NYC, LA, Milano, Paris, and back to Africa where she eventually incorporated a modeling agency, Imani Int Model Management in 2006.

In early 2007 Liz Ogumbo-Regisford introduced her fashion brand ‘Liz Ogumbo’ into the market; a clothing line that leaves a sensation of beautiful, practical yet tasteful day-to-day wear, for the fashion-savvy modern woman.

“I believe less is more when you ooze confidence, hence I have minimized fuss and accented the beauty of our individuality as beautiful women TODAY. My philosophy through what we wear is that every day should be celebrated as an opportunity to make our mark.”

“Because of my passion for ‘the woman’ and how she is perceived by society as she constantly evolves, my clothing and jewelry range is a must-have for the modern, fashion-savvy woman. These pieces of bold, elegant, timeless and endless pieces invite women to

LIFESTYLE

47

embrace self-definition through sleek cuts, simple-yetprovocative designs and attitude that comes from the inside."

2 days after her boutique wedding in Mombasa, Liz was privileged to showcase her beautiful range, “4 saisons de KenSoul” at the South African Fashion Week, Spring/Summer 2012 with sponsorship from Mi-Fone (as brand ambassador for Mi-Fone) and was well received by the market.

A detailed description of the range: 4 Saisons d’été de KenSoul! (4 Seasons of KenSoul Summer!)

“In my Africa, the bright colors through the Kitenge fabric, also known as Africa Wax Print are quite bold, expressing a whole lot more than a whole lot less; personality, world view and African women’s approach to that, depending on how you choose to express yourself.”

“When all the colors are exhausted out of every woman’s wardrobe, the Kitenge has finally become the epitome of timeless fashion. Very bold, fun, colorful, many may say, yet very authentic!

Somehow the kitenge allows you to shine through without hiding yourself; from simple meetings, to luncheons and dinner parties, to the red carpet events and back to a romantic date.”

Her album KenSoul reflects on her Kenyan soul and everything that inspires this range, hence the application of her album lyrics onto the range. The Lyrics have been printed on cottons and other fabric blends to be used for Jacket, skirt, dress lining, swimwear, blouses

and scarves to balance the textures, colors and fabric while integrating what she refers to as her KenSoul into her fashion.

When asked why all the bling-kitenge integration, she reaffirms that her integration of the bling factor through the usage of sequin along with the Kitenge fabric along with her album lyrics application onto the lining and blouses exudes power, self-actualization, self-expression, self-determination, self-certainty and timeless elegance.

Her lyrics have specifically been used for Jacket lining, swimwear, blouses and scarves to balance the textures, colors and fabric used to share her four seasons of KenSoul Summer.

To this modern woman, summer is a lifestyle expressed and translated through her mood, colors, cuts, lengths and textures. She steps out in style no matter what season effortlessly exuding self confidence, elegance & grace.

Most Items wearable in several ways e.g. wrap skirt-4dress, mini bubble skirt-4-top, sleeves are removable etc and that makes the range works well during reccessionaissance-friendly!

Throughout the collection, the newly wed Miss Ogumbo-Regisford flirts with with printed Leso & Kitenge, dyed and re-dyed fabrics, printed cottons and chiffons and other embellished enhancements.

Kitenge, with its bright colours and bold figures, is also similar to the leso in many ways. The fabric is dyed with fermented mud, which forms intricate designs and is also referred to as the Bogolan.

LIFESTYLE

48

Sequin fabric adds on some glimmer and shimmer while breaking through the other textures within the range with additional application of beads and buttons to create different variations and textures.

Besides creating, Liz wrote a book titled 'The modeling industry; who is the Ideal model?' This book was written to help build the self-esteem amongst girls.

It brings out a general approach on how to believe in ourselves and trust that we are already 'ideal' despite the state we are in.

Mrs Ogumbo-Regisford evidently possesses a triple threat to the creative industries; a combination of

“The ‘KenSoul’ experience captures me today, my roots, my love, Africa and my passion for living” striking African looks with a sharp sense of fashion and style, her humorous writing and storytelling skill and her smoky sultry vocal abilities which put her in a league of her own as she shares her experience with the world on her debut album 'KenSoul'.

She stylishly weaves stories of her Kenyan origin and global influences into a 12-track colorful quilt of Kenyan Luo, Swahili, English and French song writing and vocal expression.

What you are about to experience through her debut

album, KenSoul is a playful energy that passionately expresses a soul journey whose musical roots are anchored in Luo tradition and branch out to Swahili -chakacha sounds carried by earthy vocals; percussive Ohangala-inspired sounds and coastal beats & lyrics, humid, sensuous and unforgettable.

The journey continues through jazzy tones to nu-soul energy to reggae ‘riddims’ riding on spoken word, earthy vocals into a unique sound, dubbed KenSoul; an invitation to explore a contemporary African musical expression – A new voice on the African musicscape.

"The 'KenSoul' experience captures me today, my roots, my love, Africa and my passion for living," she says.

This journey exemplifies the birth of a beautiful colourful African butterfly from its Chrysalis and its quest to spread its wings and fly in pursuit to share her stories expressed in Luo, Swahili, English and French through 'KenSoul'.

Her soul is Kenyan and her experiences in life have developed this African girl child into a global soul instrument.

Look out for Mrs Ogumbo’s performances this May at HIFA Festival, Zimbabwe, Indian Ocean Music Festival, Reunion Isl. Etc and explore more of Liz Ogumbo at: http://www.lizogumbo.com

motoring

50

SPECIAL EDITION SL65 AMG

Qui rem sint pe etur, autation nate omnitasNam, adias et am quam ute sum eicil ilique nis eatias dest, endandi con pariant aperis essus venis

By: Thami Masemola

A

special edition Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG 45th Anniversary is to be produced to mark the 45th birthday of AMG. Only 45 units will be produced for the June 2012 celebrations, ensuring they either become collectors’ items or are extremely expensive. Or both. A righthand-drive version is probably not going to happen, so Mzansi can tick itself off the list.

So what makes this car special? A number of things actually. One, a new exclusive paint finish called design magno graphite was created especially for the car. It is complimented by a matt polish and other features like high-gloss chrome applications, carbon fibre accents on the side mirrors and spoiler lip, chrome-plated twin tailpipes, 19-inch front and 20-inch rear tyres, as well as others.

Interior appointments to make buyers want to pay thousands more include AMG sports seats, special stitching details in an AMG V12 diamond pattern, nappa leather roof lining in ginger beige, a sports steering wheel with a flat bottom.

The same 6.0-litre V12 twin turbo found in the normal new SL 65 AMG is kept intact, meaning 463kW and 1000Nm of torque. Merc says it will do 0 – 100km/h in 4 seconds.

The SL 65 AMG "45th ANNIVERSARY" features an exclusive and extensive range of standardfit appointments (selection): - AIRSCARF - Active Parking Assist incl. PARKTRONIC - Active Multicontour Seat package - AMG ceramic high-performance compound brake system - Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system - COMAND Online with 6-disc DVD changer - Driving Assistance package Plus with DISTRONIC PLUS including BAS PLUS, PRE-SAFE速 Brake, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist - Frontbass - Intelligent Light System (ILS) - Media interface - KEYLESS-GO Convenience package (incl. remote-closing boot lid and HANDS-FREE ACCESS system) - MAGIC VISION CONTROL - NECK-PRO head restraints - Panoramic vario roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL - PRE-SAFE速 system - Door power closing - Automatic, pop-up roll-over bars for driver and front passenger - Electric draught-stop AMG Performance Media with telemetry function is additionally available from the AMG Performance Studio as an optional extra.

The market launch of the Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG "45th ANNIVERSARY" will take place in September 2012.

motoring

51

motoring

52

BENTLEY CONSIDERS GOING THE SUV ROUTE TOO

Dae re es andi di diIhil excepelit que vendam natur?

Officiis cuscid excesequam res int pre

F

or the first time in its history, Bentley is seriously considering producing an SUV 4x4 vehicle, one that will look quite similar to these pictures. The Volkswagen brand has unveiled this thing called EXP 9 F at the 2012 Geneva International Motor Show. But frankly to us it looks like a Range Rover Sport, especially at the back. Bentley designers should really have thought this one through.

Stepping off the looks for a moment, this is still a Bentley in the sense that it features some of the most opulent luxury found on any car, let alone an SUV. The Range Rover Vogue finally has some real competition in that department.

By Thami Masemola

The cabin for instance, has hand-crafted pieces like wood and leather veneers, as well as aluminium, bronze and gunmetal. It’s a real traditional British car this. At the same time you’ll find connection points for modern gadgets like iPods, while the rear seats can be specified to include a fold-down typing keyboard or drinks table with infotainment screens for the passengers.

The EXP 9 F Concept boasts the company W12 6.0-litre twin turbo engine with about 450kW and 800Nm of torque. However, the smaller VW Group 4.0-litre twin turbo V8 producing around 380kW, can also be fitted. We also see Hybrids and diesels playing major roles. Bentley, without committing to any official figure, says the W12 could possibly set

motoring

53

the sprinting and top speed benchmark for SUVs. “A Bentley Grand Tourer doesn’t necessarily have to be a coupé, a convertible or a saloon - it could equally well be an SUV. What’s important is that it should be true to Bentley’s brand values and in line with the desires and needs of our customers,” said Alasdair Stewart, Member of the Board, Sales and Marketing.

The biggest markets for the car if and when it goes on sale in a few years’ time would be the usual suspects, such as China, the US and Russia.

NEWS

54

The Rise and Rise of Internet Radio

Bit etur, quiandio omnimin nis minis molupta doluptas et del et, sum ipsame dolo cor serit odit, Radio is the most globally pervasive communication and entertainment medium in the history of human kind. Having emerged in the late nineteenth century, radio has survived, and in many parts of the world, out-performed the threat of television as the chosen portal of escapism and information distribution. But most importantly, radio is mobile. But where video had failed to conclusively kill the radio star, the Internet loomed, dark and menacing – sickle in hand. Data streaming via the net was forecasted to deport one of the oldest mass media platforms in history to the island of irrelevance. Fueled by reports from Tokyo, Helsinki and New York, the Net promised to deliver the two basic tenants of radio: media consumption, and information distribution. And maybe, just maybe, all of the above on portable devices.

Except that for many years, and especially so in South Africa, rates of internet data transmission were simply not high enough to enable the streaming, downloading, or uploading of media products of a high enough quality to compete with terrestrial television or radio. The human element of radio is much more powerful than droll technology analysts care to give it credit for. Say what you like about the inanity of the drive time disk jockeys, in terms of fostering the emotions of shared happiness and belonging, the best social networks struggle to compete with the dulcet tones of a larynx that thousands of years of survival and development have shaped as our first choice in our communications armoury. So while some may have presaged the download of an mp3 file at the turn of the millennium as the end of radio, their stern pronouncements were premature, to say the least.

When ADSL, the next progressive step for data speed in South Africa, did arrive, it left us with the ability to stream or download high quality media, but internet service provider data caps and throttling ensured that we had little means to justify the indulgence. And before the dawn of 3G, mobile Internet lagged even further behind its cable-based equivalent. While we received reports of what we considered ludicrously opulent download speeds from far-flung friends, we could do nothing but dream of a time and place in which it was possible to consume high quality media. We dared not hope against hope for streamable media punctuated by a clear human voice, in real time. That kind of thinking would have been silly, and out of step with our stoic national sensibilities. That is no longer the case.

Finally, we are reaching a place where the speed, volume, and cost of Internet data transmission in South Africa is converging in a sweet spot of liberation, and consumer choice.

Steadily increasing rates of data transmission at lower prices for both fixed line and mobile connections, and a fiercely competitive smartphone and tablet manufacture market, all vying for the attention of pricesensitive customers, have produced an environment where capacity for streaming high quality audio data on the move is no longer considered a recreational luxury, but the norm. In fact, we, the consumers, are

beginning to demand it with the same nonplussed attitude with which we might expect a new motor vehicle to have ABS brakes.

According to Edison research, in 2000 around three quarters (74%) of American teenagers and young adults regularly listened to radio. By 2010, that figure had plummeted to 41%. Conversely, streaming audio on the Internet had sky rocketed from 16% to 42%, pipping conventional FM radio by 1% in that demographic segment.

And in the last year alone, Edison reported a major internet radio usage surge in the United Sates, driven by what Neilsen notes is a 14% increase in smartphone penetration in the US mobile phone market. Smartphones now stake a near 50% claim of the the US mobile phone market. Online radio use jumped from 22% of Americans in 2011, to 29% of Americans in 2012. The inference is obvious. The combination of high rates of cheap data transmission, and the portability of high-end devices like tablets and smartphones is the golden union that was needed for a medium like radio to make the jump from FM to digital.

But why would consumers, and the brands that market products to them, shift away from FM radio, to Internet radio, when FM radio already offers high quality, portable entertainment, in real time?

Advertisers like online, because the listenership is exact and measurable. How is digital radio different?

Quantitatively, the listener numbers are real and the reach is potentially wider. Qualitatively, the experience can be a thousand times richer through interaction with the audience, because digital radio lives in a space where all forms of digital communication are integrated in the experience. This makes digital radio more nimble and able to actually capitalise on the real-time aspect of the medium.

For consumers, the issue is a simple matter of choice. The FM radio spectrum is a finite medium. Licenses are seldom awarded by ICASA to new players in the market, for this very reason. The result is a ludicrously small circle of competitors, every one desperate to appeal to the lowest common denominator, in order to recoup the audience numbers and advertising spend required to justify their continued existence in that privileged space of licensed broadcasters. For the consumer, it’s the equivalent of walking into a clothing store, and being offered an array of outfits in white, off-white, bone, cream, ivory and beige. The pretence of choice is maintained, but never authentically realised.

By stark contrast, internet radio is dependent on the World Wide Web for its delivery, and not a finite radio spectrum. Using actual desktop Internet radios connected to a WiFi signal, on a PC or smart device via web browser or app, consumers have quick access to literally hundreds of thousands of internet only radio stations, and FM stations that offer a streaming option.

Moreover, consumers have the freedom to stream Internet radio in their cars, by connecting their portable smartphone or tablet to their radio with a simple auxiliary jack. Local industry pioneer, 2oceansvibe Radio (2ov.fm) can be streamed on Android, iOS, and BlackBerry devices via their dedicated app, and with 40 000 unique listeners a week, a glut of local competitors has followed suit.

That’s all very well and good, but South Africa does not have the ICT infrastructure of the United States, and local consumers are still incredibly frugal with the volumes of data that they consume.

But, there’s a but…

Telecommunications giant Cisco's network index shows that the amount of mobile data in South Africa will increase 49 fold over the next four years. In other words, from today the volume of data consumed on mobile devices will more than double each year. And a few big names are beginning to sit up and take notice.

Baily Schneider, Ian F and Bob Skinstad’s move to 2oceansvibe Radio, and Sasha Martinengo’s move to Darren Scott’s Ballz Radio, is the genesis of a trend in South African broadcasting, as FM radio experiences an exodus.

The writing is on the wall. And it heralds the potential reinvigoration of the world’s oldest, and most popular entertainment medium.

A Selection of South African Internet Radio Stations 2oceansvibe Radio – 2ov.fm Ballz Radio - http://ballz.co.za/ Hip2B2 Radio – http://www.hip2b2radio.co.za/ Mutha FM – http://www.muthafm.com/ Republic Radio – http://www.republicradio.co.za Rock Out Radio – http://roronline.com/ Taxi Radio – http://thetaxi.co.za/ Voice of Rock – http://www.voiceofrock.com/

Make it the most memorable honeymoon ever‌ on board the most lavish train on the planet!

Pretoria reservation office: Tel: +27 12 334-8459 or +27 12 334 8460 | Fax: +27 12 334 8464 or +27 12 334 8081 Cape Town reservation office: Tel: +27 21 449 2672 | Fax: +27 21 449 3338

For further information about The Blue Train, please send an e-mail to: info@bluetrain.co.za

It’s Time To Join Our World

• Winner of SA Tourism Award - Best Travel Agency • Top Gender Empowered Company - by TOPCO • World Travel Awards - Africa and South Africa’s Leading Travel Management Company

Pietermaritzburg • Johannesburg • Moreletapark • Cape Town • Durban • Pretoria