Zambia Hosts AGOA

International Edition

Black Business News Spring 2011 USD$5.00

Serving the Global African Economic Community

Zambia Hosts AGOA 10

President and Ms. Obama with Z a m b i a ’s A m b a s s a d o r M a d a m Sheila Siwela

story begins on page 6

South Sudan, the newest Nation page 45

Contents

Impact Investmen Sustainable Energy Ms. Obama Tours South Africa The Wealth Report In The Spotlight 32 Trade Calendar 56 Trade Directory 62

page 28 page 34 page 38 page 48

You could be marketing to the international business community from this page.

Be in the next issue.

Call Today!

1-323-291-9334

Black Business News

International Edition • Winter 2011

Contents 5 6

24 28 30 32 34 38 43 44 48 56 58

62

The Publisher Says...

Special Feature: Africa Growth & Opportunity Forum 2011 Resources for Going Global Mtanga Farms Investment Deal-Tanzania Growing Africa’s Middle Class In The Spotlight 2012 to be “International Year of Sustainable Energy for All” Michelle Obama Tours South Africa & Botswana Tribute to Ms. Albertina Sisulu South Sudan - the Newest Nation Top 25 Global Cities - Think Maputo International Trade Calendar Books to Consider…

Alex: My Life From Sudanese Refugee to International Supermodel Trade Advertisers

www.signafrica.net Black Business News International Edition -3- Spring 2011

Black Business News International Edition PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Earl “Skip” Cooper, II

PRODUCTION MANAGER Narishima Osei

MARKETING DIRECTOR Tony Hayward

The Publisher Says...

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dean Jones • Steven Turner LaSandra Stratton

STORY EDITORS Wanda Flagg ▪ J. Elam

CONTENT ADMINISTRATOR LaSandra Stratton

LAYOUT/TYPESETTING Lion Communications Copyright © 2011 by Black Business News International. All Rights Reserved.

The posting of stories, commentaries, reports, documents and links (embedded or otherwise) on this site does not in any way, shape or form, implied or otherwise, necessarily express or suggest endorsement or support of any of such posted material or parts therein.  Black Business News •P.O. Box 43159, Los Angeles, CA 90043 USA 323-291-9334 • 323-291-9234 fax • www.bbala.org • mail@bbala.org

About the Black Business News…

The mission of The Black Business News is to inspire and inform public and private sector industry representatives on the importance of smart small business growth. As a versatile source of socioeconomic development activity, the Black Business News imparts current local, national and international industry trends related to small businesses across the United States of America (USA), detailing greater access to financial capital, management efficiencies, business education, mentors and networks. The goals of the Black Business News include:

T

he Africa Growth and OpEarl “Skip” Cooper, II portunity Act (AGOA) has Publisher/Editor-in-Chief been available as a tool for Black Business News trade development between the USA and eligible African nations. AGOA is, however, grossly underutilized.

The act and its features are also underpublized. In fact the AGOA Forum held in Zambia in June was grossly under publicized. The Forum met the attendance goals set for the event but the goals were set very low.

This issue features a broad overview of the forum for your information. We also encourage our readers to investigate the advantages put forth in AGOA for importers and investors. The door of opportunity has been sitting open for a long time, however, Congress may close the door in the next few years. If you have any interest in the sectors supported by AGOA now is the time to get on board.

Take a good look at the wealth of information in this issue including a snap shot of U.S. First Lady Michelle Obama’s visit to South Africa and Botswana; China Looks to the Moon and Away from Africa, and India as an investor in Africa.

We also welcome South Sudan into the community of nations. Read the story that starts on page 46 but conduct your own research. South Sudan offers vast investment opportunities if you are willing and ready to take the risk. 

•

increasing the use of business enterprises owned by USAbased blacks, by advocating for greater access to leading finance lenders and successful business managers.

• working to merge resources, values, profits, technology throughout the public and private sectors.

• balancing major public and private sector contracting methods with positive outcomes of blackion International Edit s w e N ow owned and operated enterprises. ss e n si u Black B • providing an affirmative influence for emerging entrepreneurs en Contents sharing innovative design and cresh ati cultural content that exposes ative th them to the history of black enterprises and excite them to participr pate in the USA’s future. p • advocating and promoting on behalf of black-owned businessb e by promoting the need for exes panding an economic foundation p that t supports an unfettered and self-sustained urban society with USA job creation and economic black work, live and operate viable opportunity, where blacks business enterprises.  Serving the Global

African Economic

Community

Fall 2008 USD$5.00

: EOY charitable Corporate Giving n, houshealth, educatio opportunities in ing, and more.

in Africa’s tour-

Tourism: Investment vital and is evident ism industry is active, nt. all across the contine

Feature Articles: Constructisve “Strategies For the Engagement with African Diaspora” ement: “Diaspora Engag Beyond” Remittances &

le: Moyo District InvestmentofProƤ Uganda of the Republic

ory

Professional Direct Charitable Invest

ments

twins recently orpaned III in Ghana with Rev. Leon R. Perry,see Corporate Giving page 21

Black Business News International Edition -5- Spring 2011

cover photo: The White House

Ambassador Ron Kirk with Zambia’s President Rupiah Banda and Commerce Minister Felix Mutati

Ambassador Ron Kirk greets Zambia’s Ambassador to the USA Madam Shiela Siwela

Zambia Hosts AGOA Forum

T

his year marks the 10th annual meeting of the AGOA Forum, which brings together hundreds of U.S. and sub-Saharan African government officials, as well as the African and American private sector and members of the public. The 2011 Forum’s theme was “Enhanced Trade through Increased Competitiveness, Value Addition and Deeper Regional Integration.” United States Trade Representative Ambassador Ron Kirk and Secretary of State Hillary R. Clinton led the U.S. delegation to the Forum. Other representatives from the U.S. included senior officials from various federal government agencies including USTR, the Departments of State, Commerce, Treasury, Transportation and Agriculture, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the African Development Foundation and Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC).

During the Forum Ambassador Kirk announced the launch of the firstever Zambian-American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) see page 17.

Among the more than 20 charter members of the chapter are Citibank, Cargill, Price Waterhouse Coopers, Freeport McMoran, Pioneer-Dupont, and Microsoft. This new AmCham will compliment the work of the newly-formed U.S.-Zambia

Working Group on Bilateral Trade and AGOA, and encourage mutually beneficial U.S.-Zambia joint ventures.

While in Lusaka, Ambassador Kirk toured FreshPikt, a canning facility.

While there, he participated in a signing ceremony to mark a joint venture between FreshPikt and American investor, PS International. PS International is in the process of purchasing a majority stake in FreshPikt, valued up to $30 million. This venture will expand the production of tomato paste for local and regio regional markets, and will eventually sour source all inputs from local Zambian e se I farm farms. Currently, FreshPikt-owned d n a a am “President Ob farm farms supply 50 percent of the facromise and p ry a in tory tory’s inputs, with the rest coming rd o a tr ex has from nearly 1,200 small-scale ZamA O G A . a ic fr potential in A bia bian farmers. ars of positive U United States Trade Represenproduced 11 ye erstand d n u e tati tative Ron Kirk also announced a w t u b s, result e n o ne new Obama Administration initiad e b to s that more need tiv tive to build trade capacity called a’s great th the African Competitiveness to tap into Afric an and Trade Expansion (ACTE) is why I am potential. That in initiative. ACTE will provide w e n is ounce th $ $120 million over four years to pleased to ann CTE is A y. a d b build on the success of Africa’s to t n e m invest d n a g rregional trade hubs and help Afin w ro g the next step in rrican nations to realize AGOA’s ic a’s econom ic fr A g ffull potential. in d n a p x e .” ss e The announcement came durn e v ti ti e comp ing remarks at the Forum’s Min-

Ambassador Ron Kirk isterial Opening Ceremony on Thursday, June 9. Present were Zambian President Rupiah Banda and Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry Felix Mutati, Obama Administration officials and delegates from over 30 African countries. At the Ceremony, Ambassador Kirk delivered a special greeting from President Obama and highlighted AGOA’s success in expanding exports from Africa to the U.S. He also announced the Obama Administration’s intent to work with Congress to extend AGOA’s third-country fabric provision through 2015. This important provision allows eligible AGOA countries to export apparel products made with textiles from foreign countries duty-free to the U.S. In addition, he noted that the Obama Administration will work with Congress towards a seamless renewal of AGOA beyond the current 2015 expiration.

AGOA was enacted by Congress in 2000. It serves as a cornerstone for U.S. economic engagement with SubSaharan African nations and encourages the growth of their economies.

AGOA allows duty-free access for African exports, covering ninety-eight percent of the products the 37 eligible African countries send to the U.S market. 

Black Business News International Edition -7- Spring 2011

www.ustr.gov

Remarks by United States Trade Representative Ambassador Ron Kirk at the Opening Ceremony of the 2011 AGOA Forum During his trip to Lusaka, Zambia for the 2011 African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum, United States Trade Representative Ambassador Ron Kirk addressed the audience at the Opening Ceremony (see

Ambassador Kirk Visits Pendo Coffee Farm

text on this page)

and, during the closing ceremony, announced a new Obama Administration initiative to build trade capacity called the African Competitiveness and Trade Expansion (ACTE) initiative. ACTE will provide $120 million over four years to build on the success of Africa’s regional trade hubs and help African nations to realize AGOA’s full potential (see page xx).

“Good morning, President Banda, Honorable Minister Mutati, esteemed members of the Zambian Government, Ministers and heads of delegation from AGOA partner countries, U.S. Government colleagues, private sector and civil society leaders, and all friends of AGOA here today.

“It was a pleasure to host many of you in Washington last year, and I am similarly delighted to be with you in Lusaka for the opening of the Tenth AGOA Forum.

“It is my privilege along with Secretary Clinton, who will be joining us tomorrow, to lead a U.S. Government delegation which includes senior officials from a wide variety of agencies

as well as several Members of the U.S. Congress. There are also many U.S. business and civil society representatives here in Zambia.

“This high-level dialogue is proof of Africa’s strategic importance to the United States.

“I can assure you that trade and investment are critical elements of President Obama’s Global Development Policy.

“At the Millennium Development Goals Summit last September, the President called broad-based economic growth ‘the most powerful force the world has ever known for eradicating poverty and creating opportunity.’

“And he said that moving from poverty to prosperity will require ‘all the tools at our disposal -- from our diplomacy to our trade policies to our investment policies.’

“I saw the economic power of trade in action when we toured a local flower farm near Arusha on Monday. There, Jacqueline Mkindi and Richard Pluke described an initiative sponsored by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) in coordination with the Tanzanian Horticultural Association

(TAHA) that is helping to develop better air-shipping solutions to make Tanzanian flower exports more competitive in the international market.

“I was pleased to learn that TAHA prioritizes the needs of small farms, most of which, are operated by women. I had the opportunity to meet some of these women, and they told me how better transportation links are moving their products to market more reliably and affordably, which is helping to create a better flow of income for their small farm businesses.

“Their stories are similar to ones I heard on my last visit to the continent in 2009, when I met with farmers, factory workers, and entrepreneurs in Kenya, Ethiopia, and Senegal.

“The people behind these businesses are real pioneers. In sometimes difficult circumstances, they are competing in the global market, and making better lives for themselves and their children.

And AGOA helps make it possible.

“AGOA helps make it possible for Ethiopian factory workers to earn a living supported by exports of apparel and footwear for sale in the United States.

Black Business News International Edition -8- Spring 2011

see Southern Sudan on page 9

AGOA Opening Address

from page 8

“AGOA helps make it possible for Ghanaian craftsmen to sell expertlycarved stools, bookends, and statues to U.S. customers seeking the perfect piece at interior design and African art shops across our country.

“And AGOA helps make it possible for HIV-positive single mothers in Swaziland to export specialty foods, giving them good jobs and hope for their families.

“By facilitating trade that supports jobs, AGOA improves individual lives and stimulates development from the bottom up in a way that can lead to greater economic growth for entire countries.

“That’s why Congress passed AGOA, and that is why the Obama Administration is committed to make it work even better.

“Let me say that again: The United States is committed to promoting Africa’s economic growth through trade, and AGOA is a critical pillar in growing the U.S. economic relationship with sub-Saharan nations.

“Now, early in the second decade of AGOA, we celebrate its success. Since its launch in 2000, AGOA has provided opportunities for real people and businesses, and contributed to the growth of African economies through expanded and diversified trade. Last year, non-oil imports under AGOA totaled $4 billion, up 18 percent from 2009, and included value-added products such as apparel, footwear, processed agricultural products, and manufactured goods.

“We also recognize that AGOA can do so much more. That’s why the Obama Administration will work with the U.S. Congress over the coming months to extend one of AGOA’s most important provisions – the third-country fabric provision. We would like to see it extended to 2015.

“AGOA textiles and apparel have created new opportunities for investment and trade that benefit businesses and consumers in both the United States and Africa. This sector remains an im-

portant foundation for Africa’s growing industrial base.

“In addition, over the next few months, once South Sudan achieves independence, we hope that Congress will add that new country to the list of those eligible for AGOA benefits once it meets the benchmark criteria for inclusion.

“Furthermore, the Obama Administration is also committed to working with Congress toward a seamless renewal of AGOA beyond 2015 to provide the predictability needed for U.S. and African businesses, entrepreneurs, buyers, and investors.

“But we cannot simply seek to extend AGOA. All of us – U.S. and African, governments, farmers, and business – must work closely to make AGOA better, to fulfill its yet unfulfilled promise and potential.

We must get it right and aim to have the impact we’ve always known possible in AGOA’s second decade.

“To be sure, the U.S. government understands that market access alone under AGOA will not get us the results we seek.

“Over the past eleven years, we’ve learned that AGOA is most effective when Africans interested in exporting are also able to receive technical assistance and other support through trade capacity building programs.

“That’s why the United States is helping African countries in key areas like infrastructure development and trade capacity building, through the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) and federal agencies.

“Nearly $5.5 billion of MCC compacts, about 70 percent of its portfolio, benefit the people of 13 African countries.

These projects include building transportation networks, increasing agricultural productivity, improving water supply and sanitation, expanding health,

education, and community services, and broadening access to finance for greater enterprise development.

“Investments like these improve life for millions of Africans and make it easier to produce, sell, and ship goods and services within the continent and abroad.

“At the same time, to support our investments in AGOA, USAID, the African Development Foundation, and the U.S. Trade and Development Agency provide technical and trade capacity building assistance to help African exporters discover and seize opportunities in the U.S. market.

“USAID funds regional trade hubs in Ghana, Senegal, Botswana, and Kenya that work with producers and firms that are ready to export in industries rang-

ing from food to flowers to footwear.

“These trade hubs help make African producers more competitive by tackling cross-cutting problems in finance, transport, governance, business environment, and telecommunications.

“And the hubs produce positive results for African farmers, factory workers, and families. For example, in 2010 alone, the trade hubs facilitated over $100 million in African goods exports to the world, including $56 million to the United States, and assisted nearly 1,200 African firms interested in developing or expanding their capacity to export.

“That is why, today, I am pleased to announce that the United States will support a new trade capacity building initiative, the African Competitive-

Black Business News International Edition -9- Spring 2011

see Southern Sudan on page 11

AGOA Opening Address

from page 9

ness and Trade Expansion Initiative, or ‘ACTE.’ Even in a very difficult U.S. budget environment, this initiative will put significant resources behind the commitment to expand both U.S.-African and intra-African trade.

“Specifically, ACTE will provide up to $120 million over four years to intensify and focus more sharply the work of USAID’s African Trade Hubs. Resources will be provided to improve Africa’s capacity to produce and export competitive, value-added products and to address supply-side constraints that impede African trade.

“These investments will help to drive economic development in African countries, and enhance trade opportunities among Africans and Americans alike.

“Because just as pioneering African entrepreneurs are seeking to sell more to international customers, there are many American businesses both small and large looking toward Africa as the next major frontier market. And as African economies develop, American producers should be able to find additional African customers more quickly.

“At the same time we all must recognize that private sector leaders want to see a high degree of transparency, accountability, and predictability when making trade and investment decisions. That’s why the United States is working with African governments to improve the business climate in their countries.

“Similarly, the United States supports African regional economic integration.

Reducing barriers to intra-African trade and investment will improve Africa’s competitiveness, and it will benefit American exporters as it becomes easier to do business here.

“Many AGOA partners have already enacted far-reaching economic and political reforms that have enhanced the business and investment climate, established rule of law, improved governance, and addressed barriers such as corruption, lack of capacity, and limited infrastructure.

“The United States will continue to support countries that take such concrete steps, because we know that when we are focused on ambitious goals, when we demand mutual accountability for measurable outcomes,

innovative and cooperative ways to increase access to medicine.

“Though there is still much work to be done, together we have radically changed the situation – millions have access to treatment, HIV incidence rates have dropped, and people are living longer, healthier lives.

“This is good news, because Africans and Americans all seek the same things – we want safe and secure communities, with good schools and good jobs, so that we can provide for our families, and so our children and grandchildren

Ambassador Kirk at the Solomon flower farm and when we marshal resources in the right ways, we can do big things together.

“For example, strong partnerships among governments and the private sector have helped us make significant progress in addressing the HIV/AIDS crisis.

“As we meet here today, the UN General Assembly is convening a HighLevel Meeting in New York to mark 30 years since the first reported case of HIV/AIDS. “The drafters of AGOA recognized the impact of HIV/AIDS on this continent. In the bill, they affirmed the United States’ commitment to work through public-private partnerships to address the HIV/AIDS crisis.

“And in the decade since AGOA was passed, these efforts have paid off.

Working together, African countries and the private sector have developed

have a chance to lead a better life.

“So as we discuss AGOA and U.S.Africa trade this week, let us remember that the policy we make today will determine the scope of tomorrow’s opportunities.

“Let us be both ambitious and thorough in crafting policies that channel the tremendous power of trade to promote prosperity and create jobs well into the future.

“The challenge for all of us – Africans and Americans alike – is to work together to get it right, so that all of our peoples can compete globally and reap the benefits of trade more widely on both continents. President Obama and I look forward to continuing to work with you.”  www.ustr.gov/about-us/press-office/ speeches/transcripts/2011/june/ remarks-united-states-trade-representative-ron

Black Business News International Edition -11- Spring 2011

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton posing for a photograph with Africa Women Entrepreneure(AWEP) when she toured their stands which exhibited Art products.

Zambia Reaps Benefits from Hosting AGOA 10 WHEN Zambia Women in Mining chairperson Mary Lubemba heard that Zambia was selected to host the AGOA forum nine months ago, she saw countless opportunities for her association to finally access the American markets with their gems and crafts.

Zambian gemstones are rarely purchased by Americans, who prefer finished products, which are mostly made in Asia from African stones.

Expecting big links from America, Lubemba and her group was shocked to learn that actually the big saviour for the association has always been close to them – Malawi.

“The biggest earning we got from the AGOA African Growth and Opportunity Act forum was the link with women in mining from Malawi. We had very productive talks with them and we have

agreed to meet this August to consolidate our work,” Lubemba said in a post-forum interview. “We also learnt from our colleagues about business principles and ethics and we will put that into practice.”

According to Lubemba, despite having some of the best gems in the world, Zambia has not earned benefits due to lack of machinery and skills for most small-scale gemstone miners.

“Most of our miners are using pick and shovel on their mines due to lack of machinery,” Lubemba said. “We would like to add value to our products by supplying finished goods to the world market that is why we have introduced training programmes for women to design jewellery. At the moment we are selling raw stones to Asia at very low prices and those people get fortunes

for the finished products in America. If we are able to do our own cutting and polishing, we will get much more.”

Lubemba said apart from the fight to access the lucrative US market, the women miners were also trying to find a way of attracting Asian partners who had the technical knowledge and machinery to boost the sector.

The 2011 AGOA forum in Lusaka awakened the country to the many opportunities that it was missing out under the United States’ most generous preferential law and in the region.

Led by Heealy Mweemba, the Zambian AGOA forum organising committee faced months of long meetings, sleepless nights and a K2 trillion hosting bill. But all that was to be forgotten when, on June 8, 2011, the country got more than it bargained for in investment pledges and agreements.

By the time President Rupiah Banda and the United States Trade Representative Ambassador Ron Kirk officially opened the forum on June 8, there were already questions of whether or not hosting the event was worth it.

Black Business News International Edition -12- Spring 2011

Benefits from Hosting AGOA

from page 12

It is common knowledge that Africa has not fully benefitted from AGOA, exporting just 20 eligible products from the more than 6,000 range.

The continent has also failed to attract meaningful US investments under the AGOA umbrella blaming the situation on the unpredictability and uncertainty of the program.

It was against that background of failed opportunities that Zambia invested so much to host the annual AGOA forum.

Commerce minister, Felix Mutati, assured the nation that by the time the forum concluded, Zambia would have attracted more than US$200 million worth of investments.

Mutati got it wrong.

The United States African Development Foundation (USADF) chief executive officer Lloyd Pierson committed US$300,000 in grants for two Zambian agricultural businesses, the Zambezi Organic Rice Growers Association (ZORGA) and the Chipepo Fisheries Company.

ZORGA and the Chipepo Fisheries Company both received enterprise expansion grants to increase production and improve linkages to local and regional markets.

Nearly 1,000 rural Zambian farmers and fishermen are direct beneficiaries.

Likando Mukumbuta, Zambia Agribusiness Technical Assistance Centre (ZATAC) chief executive officer and USADF’s implementing partner in Zambia, welcomed these new grassroots investments.

“We take pride in cultivating local businesses. USADF invests in people and their ideas for local growth and expansion,” Mukumbuta said on the topic.

Four other American countries announced their intentions to invest in Zambia and signed agreements with the Zambia Development Agency and other private Zambian businesses.

The total investment pledges and grants totalled US$500 million.

Apart from the presence of US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who led

Hand craft Association Chairperson Angelica Ramsey (r)shows US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and First lady Thandiwe Banda crafts made by Business Women in Zambia at Mulungushi Conference Centre.

the negotiations team from her government, the most colourful group at the forum was the all female shine of the African Women Entrepreneurs Program (AWEP).

Born from Hillary Clinton, the oneyear old AWEP got the corner piece of the cake with its founder announcing a US$2 million grant for its programmes.

AWEP was also planted in Zambia, its new headquarters as on June 10.

Earlier, Lubemba led Clinton on a tour to sample Zambia’s gemstones.

Clinton closed the AGOA forum with a warning to African participants against corrupt practices and a promise that her administration would take to congress the motion to extend the preference law.

When all is said and done, there is no doubt that hosting the AGOA forum 2011 has put Zambia on the spotlight and opened trade doors beyond the American market.

By Mutale Kapekele www.postzambia.com/post-read_article.php?articleId=21254

Black Business News International Edition -13- Spring 2011

The Role of AGOA’s Regional Trade Hubs Regional trade hubs in sub-Saharan Africa.

Nairobi, Kenya - East Africa Accra, Ghana - Central Africa Garbaronne, Botswana - Southern Africa Dakar, Senegal - West Africa A report on how American regional trade offices are helping African businesses do business with the United States.

U

.S. trade with sub-Saharan Africa has more than doubled.

At the same time, American companies and workers have found new opportunities to do business in Africa - providing inputs and expertise to aspiring African entrepreneurs, participating in joint-venture partnerships, and increasing American exports and investments.

The United States has helped foster Africa’s expansive trading capacity through the 2000 African Growth and Opportunity Act, or AGOA. The trade growth is being driven by several key economic sectors, including machinery, automotive vehicles and parts, wheat,

Zambia’s Vice President Kunda Urges AGOA Quotas

V

ice-President George Kunda said the AGOA quotas should be developed in the budgets of agencies such as the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), United States Africa Development Foundation (USADF) and the United Stated Aid for International Development (USAID).

This will ensure agencies provide measurable support to building produc-

non-crude oil products, aircraft, and electrical machinery, which includes telecommunications equipment.

The United States has worked hard to ensure that African nations have the resources they need to seize the benefits of trade. Trade-capacity-building assistance is a critical element in the effort to help African countries turn trade opportunities like AGOA into exports.

In addition to improved trade and investment since the inception of AGOA, the United States has established four regional trade hubs in sub-Saharan Africa with the U.S. Agency for International Development. The hub in Nairobi, Kenya, serves all of East Africa, including Uganda. There, Ugandans can receive AGOA-related training and technical assistance. At the center of AGOA are substantial trade prefertive capacities as well as expanding productivity in AGOA eligible countries.

Speaking at the opening of the AGOA 2011 Trade Expo in Lusaka, Mr. Kunda called on the US government to extend AGOA beyond 2015 on a long and sustainable basis.

“This will create an opportunity for industry and other businesses to foster trade relations and secure joint venture partnerships with their counterparts,” he said.

The trade expo this year demonstrated Africa’s ability to explore opportunities for trade and investment.

He said the private sector in Africa should lay more emphasis on exporting manufactured goods and processed foods to the US in order to overcome

ences that allow all marketable goods produced in AGOA countries to enter the U.S. market duty-free. But despite the progress achieved, Africa benefits too little from global trade.

Some progress in trade liberalization has been made by sub-Saharan African nations, but Africa’s overall trade policies remain the world’s most protectionist. Average African tariffs are nearly 20 percent. This is compared to just over 10 percent for the rest of the world, and 5 percent for industrialized countries. To change this situation, African nations must continue to adopt broad economic and trade reforms to enhance their ability to attract foreign capital.

New challenges are rising as other nations, especially in Asia, are becoming more competitive in the global textile and apparel markets, and with the expansion of bilateral free trade and economic partnership agreements.

The situation calls for new trade policies, and the United States is committed to establishing them.

Africa accounts for 2 percent of global trade; an increase of 1 percentage point would generate additional export revenues annually that would be greater than the annual amount of assistance that Africa receives.  This podcast is produced by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Information Programs. www.state.gov

sanitary and phyto-sanitary barriers to trade with the US. Mr. Kunda said it was important that the United States government played an active role in developing capacities in the African private sector to meet its required standards.

Airtel Zambia managing director Fahad King, whose company was the main sponsor of the event, said AGOA was a tool that could help reduce the barriers between the US and eligible Sub-Saharan countries like Zambia.  Times of Zambia www.times.co.zm //allafrica.com

Black Business News International Edition -14- Spring 2011

Sub-Saharan Africa Ripe for Business - U.S. Secretary of State Hillary R. Clinton

S

ecretary of State, Hillary Clinton has said the Sub-Saharan Africa is now more ripe for massive investments and trade but challenged the countries to heighten moves towards regional integration to maximise the economic benefits.

And Mrs. Clinton, who officially closed the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) forum, said the US government wanted the relationship with developing countries to be based on mutual partnership and not patronage.

Mrs. Clinton told the delegates to the just-ended AGOA forum at Lusaka’s Mulungushi International Conference Centre that Africa had come a long way but was now ready for increased investments and trade with the US and the entire international community. ”Although it still faces many challenges in many areas, the region is undeniably more stable, more democratic, and more prosperous than adecade ago.”Thanks to the hard work of the African people, productivity has beenrising.

Consumer spending in the region is projected to grow by almost US$600 million and the GDP by US$1 trillion, in less than a decade,”she said.

She said that in 2000, when her husband signed the AGOA into law, the chances of the Act bearing fruit in the Sub-Sahara Africa region were dismal and productivity was declining and there were 10 major conflicts while there were only four leaders who had peacefully handed over power to elected ones.

Both sides, however, worked hard resulting in the quadrupling of exports to the US to US $4 million in the past decade without considering the figures from oil.

Mrs. Clinton, who is the first US Sec-

retary of State to visit Zambia since 1976 when her predecessor, Henry Kissinger did so, reiterated that the Obama administration would work with Congress on a seamless renewal of the AGOA beyond 2015.

She said that between now and then, the eligible countries had a duty to help in coming up with scenarios to convince the Congress on the need to extend the Act beyond 2015 when it is scheduled to expire.

Mrs. Clinton said AGOA was all about the people of the eligiblecountries who should be helped to attain better standards of living through empowerment.

Mrs. Clinton said it was for that reason that all stakeholders including women and the youths should be actively involved in AGOA issues noting that by 2015, a quarter of the world’s young people would be residing in Africa.

She said women were still grappling with various barriers which made them fail to make it in their various ventures and that should be addressed. ”At the State Department, we have made it a priority to help women break down these barriers.

Among our many efforts, we are helping women entrepreneurs connect with potential partners around the world,”she said.

She said that last year, the African Women’s Entrepreneurship Programme (AWEP) was introduced un-

der AGOA and in just a few months the grouping had already made remarkable strides.

Mrs. Clinton announced that her government would contribute US$2million this year and next year to the grouping to enable them to continue their work.

On the need for regional development, Mrs. Clinton said Sub Saharan Africa had the lowest intraregional trade and challenged the countries to engage in business between and among themselves before venturing out into the US market.

She said that African resources should benefit Africans and emphasized that the US government will elevate corruption as a major focus of its diplomatic efforts.

Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton has said that Sub-Saharan Africa is now more ripe for massive investments and trade but challenged the countries to heighten moves towards regional integration to maximise the economic benefits.

And Mrs Clinton, who yesterday officially closed the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) forum, said the US government wanted the relationship with developing countries to be based on mutual partnership and not patronage.

Mrs. Clinton told the delegates to the just-ended AGOA forum at Lusaka’s Mulungushi International Conference centre that Africa had come a long way but was now ready for increased investments and trade with the US and the entire international community.

Mrs Clinton, who is the first US Secretary of State to visit Zambiasince 1976 when her predecessor, Henry Kissinger did so, reiterated that the Obama administration would work with Congress on a seamless renewal of the AGOA beyond 2015.

Although this is Mrs Clinton’s first visit to Zambia as Secretary of State, she has visited Zambia before as First lady of the United States of America. 

By James Muyanwa www.times.co.zm/news/viewnews. cgi?category=4&id=1307786712

Black Business News International Edition -15- Spring 2011

Remarks at Launch of U.S.-Zambia Chamber of Commerce - U.S. Secretary of State Hillary R. Clinton

P

lease, everyone, be seated and thank you so much for the very warm welcome. We’ve had already a wonderful day yesterday and today, and I think we will continue that streak. I want to start by thanking our ambassador, who is working very hard to strengthen the partnership between our two countries. And I am especially pleased to be here today – I ran up the stairs – (laughter) – especially pleased to be here with ministers of the governments and so many distinguished business leaders here in Zambia to celebrate the launch of the new Zambian-American Chamber of Commerce. I want to thank Ambassador Ron Kirk. No one works harder to promote business and opportunities around the world.

And it is for me an exciting moment because we see so much potential. And by building our relationship, we want a relationship of partnership not patronage, of sustainability not quick fixes.

We want to establish a strong foundation to attract new investment, open new businesses, as the minister said yesterday, create more paychecks, and do so within the context of a positive ethic of corporate responsibility.

We think it’s essential that we have an idea going in that doing well is not in any way a contradiction of doing good, that we can do both. We can do well by the people of both our countries.

We can do well by creating businesses that will be profitable and therefore create more jobs. And we can do good by establishing an even stronger base for prosperity.

So I think that as we look forward, certainly I felt a strong sense of commitment yesterday from the government, both from the president, from

Minister Mutati and others. But the real work is done by all of you. You’re the ones who are on the ground making the difference.

And I want to just highlight a few of the stories that I was told. Chris and Agatha Beckett, where are they? Chris and Agatha Beckett. Chris is American.

Agatha is Zambian. Together they started an organic fertilizer business that now already employs 80 people here.

And since agriculture is one of our targets for working with you through our Feed the Future Program, we think that any investment in value-added products and inputs into agriculture is going to be extremely important.

Where is Rashmi Sharma? There she is. She and her brother used – are you her brother? Oh, good. (Applause.)

She and her brother used the AGOA trade preferences to expand their local jewelry business all the way to the United States. Now, that’s good for Zambia, but it’s also good for American consumers who want high-quality, beautiful jewelry, some examples of which I saw yesterday at the exhibition at the con-

vention center.

I also outlined a series of steps that African governments can and I hope should take and will take to unleash the potential of their own people. And I think as we look to the future, there is such an amazing set of opportunities, but business can’t do it without a supportive government policy framework, and governments can’t do it without entrepreneurs and business people who are really going to take advantage of all of these opportunities.

I also want to recognize Joyce-Ann Wainaina. Where’s Joyce-Ann? There you are, Joyce-Ann. (Applause.) As you know, she’s the managing director of Citibank Zambia and she’s helping Citibank expand on its more than three decades of experience in business here and putting financial tools in the hands of small businesses, medium size businesses, families, entrepreneurs. And when a company like Citibank makes a commitment to a country, it’s because they do see an opportunity for growth. But it’s also important to note

Black Business News International Edition -16- Spring 2011

see AmCham Launch on page 17

AmCham Launch

from page 16

that Citibank is giving back through community projects and scholarships, because we want to seed the ground and we want to fertilize it – (laughter) – with things like scholarships and internships, which I know you are also doing.

The United States will do what we can to help American and Zambian companies do business together. We want to help work toward lowering trade barriers, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, because, unfortunately, the countries in Sub-Saharan Africa trade at a lower level than any region in the world. And there are so many opportunities for growth just within the region: lower trade barriers; invest in infrastructure, health, health and education, cut down on corruption, which I addressed yesterday both publicly and privately and I will continue to address across the world, not just here and not just in Africa. Because we know very well that corruption is a hidden tax on businesses, and you can’t expect to be

able to do business if at every stage along the way of setting up and producing and then distributing and marketing, you have to pay somebody who is not a productive member of your team.

So we’re going to do everything we can to try to help on that. (Applause.)

I don’t know how many of you have met the Assistant Secretary for African Affairs in the State Department, but Johnnie Carson, a longtime – Johnnie, why don’t you stand up so that people can – (applause). Johnnie has been working in Africa for a long time and has seen all of the ups and downs. We think we’re on an up. Forty years ago, we had a lot of hope for Africa at the time of independence, and then things didn’t quite move as quickly as people had hoped for. When AGOA was passed, when my husband signed it back in 2000, we had a lot of problems on the continent – at least 10 conflicts, not a good system of electoral selection for leaders and people then moving on if they weren’t elected, and so many other problems.

But we’ve seen tremendous progress. In these 10 years, American trade with Africa has quadrupled, and that doesn’t include oil. If we take oil out,

we’ve still quadrupled from 1 to 4 billion, but we want to quadruple again and then quadruple again and keep on going.

The ambassador is very committed, along with his team, to support this Chamber of Commerce. And we want you not only to succeed, we wants you to flourish. So I am thrilled to be here.

I’m like the parsley on the plate. All the hard work has been done. I don’t pretend to be the main course because I come and go. The people who are going to be working will be here tomorrow and the next day. But I am thrilled.

I have a deep personal commitment to and belief in the future of Africa. I have absolutely no doubt in my mind. And of course, we do have a President and a First Lady who care deeply about the continent as well. Next week, Mrs. Obama and her daughters and her mother will be in Botswana in South Africa.

So we are going to continue to have a sustained focus on what we can do together. We think we’ve learned a few lessons in our 235 years of independence that might be of some use to those here and elsewhere, and we are eager to be a friend and a partner. 

American Chambers of Commerce Abroad (AmChams)

T

he U.S. Chamber of Commerce (www.uschamber.com) is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations. More than 96% of U.S. Chamber members are small businesses with 100 employees or fewer.

The Chamber’s International Division (www.uschamber.com/international) works in collaboration with more than 100 American Chambers of Commerce in countries around the world.

The Chamber also runs the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE, www.cipe.org), a program of the National Endowment for Democracy.

The Chamber continues to drive the agenda on job creation through its Campaign for Free Enterprise (www. freeenterprise.com), a comprehensive, multiyear effort to support free enterprise through national advertising; grassroots advocacy; citizen, community, and youth engagement; and research and ideas leadership.

AFRICA BUSINESS INITIATIVE (ABI) The mission of the ABI is to engage

the U.S. business community on legislative policies that foster foreign direct investment in Africa, to facilitate trade between the United States and African countries, and to introduce U.S. companies to the continent’s vast economic opportunities.

The biggest obstacles to economic engagement across Africa are the unknown and perceived risks. The ABI’s job is to help companies mitigate these risks through advocacy and access and by identifying investment opportunities.

Under ABI’s leadership, sector task forces, made up of U.S. corporate representatives, will engage key members of Congress, the Administration, and foreign governments in strategic dialogues to foster private sector engagement.

AmChams The American Chambers of Commerce Abroad (AmChams) advance the interests of American business overseas. They are voluntary associations of American companies and individuals doing business in a particular country, as well as firms and individuals of that country who operate in the United States. Currently, 115 AmChams in 102 countries are affiliated with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

AmChams pursue trade policy initiatives, make available publications and services, and sponsor a variety of business development programs. Through four regional organizations in Asia, Europe, the Gulf Countries, and Latin America/the Caribbean, the AmChams represent the concerns and interests of the business community at the highest levels of government and business in trade policy development.

AmChams in Africa In addition to the new chamber that has been established in Zambia, AmChams in Africa include: • American Chamber of Commerce in Egypt - www.amcham.org.eg • American Chamber of Commerce in Ghana - www.amchamghana.org • American Chamber of Commerce in Kenya • American Chamber of Commerce in Mauritius - www.americanchambermauritius.org • American Chamber of Commerce in South Africa - www.amcham.co.za For more information on AmChams call (202) 463-5460 or visit the AmCHam website at www.uschamber. com/international. 

Black Business News International Edition -18- Spring 2011

see AmCham Launch on page 19

www.TradeSupportsJobs.com International trade supports millions of American jobs. One in three manufacturing jobs depends on exports, and one in three acres on American farms is planted for hungry consumers overseas. More than 95% of the world’s consumers live outside our borders, and their demand for American goods and services is growing every day.

But for too long, it’s been hard to identify the workers, farmers, and ranchers whose livelihood depends on trade.

We hope to change that. The information you’ll find on this site, which is gathered exclusively from official U.S. government databases, provides an unprecedented amount of detail on the link between American exports and jobs. For every state in the union and all 435 Congressional districts, you’ll see what’s being exported and to what countries. You’ll also find lists of companies — from sea to shining sea — that are selling their wares to markets all around the globe.

The conclusion is inescapable: trade supports jobs

www.traderoots.org TradeRoots is the only sustained, national trade education program dedicated to raising grassroots support and public awareness about the importance of international trade to local communities. Through strong partnerships with associations, local chambers of commerce, economic development groups, and the business community, TradeRoots takes the Chamber’s message of promoting free enterprise and individual opportunity to local communities across the country.

TradeRoots: Builds and sustains bipartisan pro-trade coalitions at the grassroots level.

TradeRoots successfully built coalitions for past pro-trade legislation, including China Permanent Normal Trading Relations (PNTR), Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), and the numerous trade agreements opening lucrative markets to U.S. business. Thousands of TradeRoots advocates stand ready to act in support of pending pro-business trade legislation.

TradeRoots: Identifies and mobilizes local leaders as pro-trade advocates in each district.

TradeRoots has trained hundreds of local chamber of commerce executives on how to build strong international support in their communities and help their member companies be strong trade advocates on Capitol Hill.

TradeRoots: Facilitates international trade education programs to educate the U.S. small business community.

Using a strong and extensive partner network, TradeRoots has successfully held more than 500 international trade education grassroots programs across the United States to educate the small business community about market opportunities overseas.

companies understand international opportunities – and how to use current, pending, and future international trade agreements.

TradeRoots: Tells trade success stories through the local media, using a vigorous communications campaign.

TradeRoots publishes a series called Faces of Trade®, featuring success stories of small businesses that expanded by entering new, international markets. The Faces of Trade stories are featured in the TradeRoots’ newsletter, in the web site, in trade education programs, and on Capitol Hill when advocating for free trade agreements.

www. uschambersmallbusinessnation. com Because of the U.S. Chamber’s key role in ensuring our country’s growth and prosperity, it has launched U.S. Chamber Small Business Nation.

U.S. Chamber Small Business Nation is a community that was founded on the open exchange of information and ideas, w h i l e creating the opportunity for small b u s i nesses to speak with a unified voice.

Bringing together America’s small businesses – the engine of economic growth – will strengthen individual endeavors while amplifying the collective voice of business. 

TradeRoots: Partners with governors and state leaders to communicate the local benefits of trade.

TradeRoots partners with governors and economic development offices to leverage existing resources and share new ones to help small and mid-size

Black Business News International Edition -19- Spring 2011

African Growth & Responsible Business - Young Entrepreneur Perspective on AGOA

By Abdul Waheed Patel – Managing Director, ETHICORE Consulting and Advisory Solutions

Background In 2000, the United States Congress passed the African Growth and Opportunity Act, to strengthen trade between the United Status and sub-Saharan Africa that meet eligibility criteria, which requires countries to attain a certain level of economic, legal and human rights standards. AGOA is therefore more than just a trade preference program. It provides the U.S governance and African partners a platform to discuss key economic, commercial and political issue that underpin and are affected by U.S-Africa trade relations.

Introduction From 9 – 10 June 2011, the AGOA Forum will take place for the first time on the Africa continent in Lusaka, Zambia. The theme will be: “Enhanced Trade Through Increased Competitiveness, Value Addition and Deeper Regional Integration”.

As a precursor to the AGOA forum, there will be a pre-forum event hosted by the World Bank Institute and its partners – namely: The Africa Responsible Business Network (AfRBN); The Young Africa Business Trust (YAfBT); The Young Americas Business Trust of the Organisation of American Status (YABT); United Nations Global Compact; Egyptian Institute of Directors; Private Sector Liaison Network; the Pan African Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Convention on Business Integrity.

The theme of the event will be: “Re-

sponsible Business” Principled Collaborative Engagement to Leverage Competitiveness”. Some questions delegates and participants have been asked to think about includes: • How can AGOA trade support young entrepreneurs?

• How can Young Business Leaders influence and enhance Responsible Business in Africa and beyond?

• In which ways can the Young Africa Business Trust (YABT) support Young Business Leaders?

• What immediate follow-up can participants undertake and what support do they need to do this?

As such the event will serve as a platform for multi-country knowledgeexchange through bringing together business professionals and young African entrepreneurs to discuss how AGOA can support sustainable development, youth employment and help enhance investment in Africa through the enactment of responsible business practices. Young business leaders and entrepreneurs will have an opportunity to exchange knowledge and best practices, enabling them to be more effective and competitive. Using technology platforms such as live videoconferencing through World Bank regional country offices, the reach of the event will be expanded to localities such as Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, United States and Zambia, as well as other parts of the African continents and the world through live webcasts.

In an effort to ensure the realization and actualization of the objective, the AfRBN and YABT will also participate in the one-day civil society and private sector forum on 8 June 2011. This will include a breakout session entitled: “The Next Generation”. This session is expected to be an opportunity to learn and join forces with seasoned civil society and private sector actors taking part in AGOA. As a member of the Africa Responsible Business Network (AfRBN) and a regional World Bank Institute stakeholder in Africa (including the World Bank Innovation Fair and WBI-funded African Network for Social Accountability), I will be participating in the preevent entitled: “Responsible Business” Principled Collaborative Engagement to Leverage Competitiveness”.

Some critical perspectives On paper, this ambitious theme and its equally ambitious targeted outcomes resonate poignantly with the ethically focused nature of values and service espoused and held dear by ETHICORE Consulting and Advisory Solutions, in the areas of ethical business and economic governance, including trade, sustainable development, environmental and climate governance.

As I contemplate participation in this event, the opportunity it represents and the horizon beyond it, a number of critical questions and issues come to mind.

A. There must be no illusion that for the U.S, AGOA is a charitable act of

Black Business News International Edition -20- Spring 2011

AGOA Perspective

from page 20

goodwill towards Africa. In fact, the U.S economy has a definite interest in ensuring access to Africa for resources and market access for U.S companies and their products and services in Africa to complement its domestic market and increasing competition in global markets from emerging market forces such as China and India. Similarly, African countries seek access for African companies, products and services to the U.S market, including the beneficiation of raw materials. As a result, in the AGOA U.S-Africa relationship no one party holds a compelling position. As a result there must at all times prevail reciprocal and mutual respect, trust and prosperity. Else this is one-side relationship doomed to fail.

B. There must be some measure of balance in the approach of both African parties and the U.S. What is mean by this is that, indeed African participants in AGOA – be they African governments, business and/or civil society must show a commitment to good governance, rule of law and human right. Simultaneously, this must be balanced with corrective, remedial and mitigation measures by the U.S. for its shortcomings in other international and multilateral processes, which effectively constrain the success of a mutually beneficial and reciprocal AGOA arrangement. For example, the failure of the U.S. to successfully negotiate with developing countries under the DOHA Development Round of international trade negotiations at the World Trade Organisation, as well as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change to mitigate the impact of its international trade and environmental position on the sustainable development prospects of developing nations.

C. Africa needs to develop and maintain dynamic and innovative models of responsible business practices

to pursue economic growth, job creation and employment, wealth creation and prosperity and sustainable development through building business practices and business organisations that matter and that have a positive impact on broader society (i.e. social businesses or businesses with a social purpose).

These are either businesses that provide ethically focused products, goods or service. Or they could be businesses that go about delivering products, goods and services in an ethical manner. In both cases these could be function of: values, strategy, business model, business practices, market conduct, corporate behaviour, social responsibility and impact. The fallout from the global economic and financial crisis in the U.S and indeed other developed economies and countries, has demonstrated the importance of ethical business practices.

As with forums of this nature, it easy for things to deteriorate into a mere ‘talkshop’ with a ‘wish-list’ actions and activities. This would be an indictment of young African business people and our ability to offer localized solutions to our region based on our depth of knowledge and experience of conditions and factors on the ground in doing business in our region. While talking is important, it is often overrated and not the most important aspect in a dialogue of this nature. What get’s spoken is only as valuable as the willingness and ability of the receiver of the message to listen, appreciate and deeply understand what is spoken. This needs to be complimented with a well-thought set of follow-up actions for prioritising impact; timeframes within which these need to be undertaken; identification and allocation of responsible parties and the allocations of resources to support its pursuit. Only then can there be sufficient transparency and follow-through to measure the extent to which African and U.S leaders in government, business and supporting international development institutions have sufficiently understood young African business people and the extent to which our concerns and inputs are taken seriously.

Without this kind of approach this

event merely represents another lost opportunity for advancing Africa’s progress and sustainable development and the prosperity and well being of our people. This includes our ability to govern ourselves and determine the manner and conditions upon which we conduct trade and business with the rest of the world in a mutually beneficial manner.

NOTE: About the Africa Responsible Business Network (AfRBN) and the Young Africa Business Trust (YAfBT): In November 2010, the World Bank Institute (WBI) – in partnership with the World Bank Africa Region, the United Nations Global Compact and various Africa business associations – convened a conference in Brussels entitled: “Strengthening Responsible Business and Governance in Africa”. The conference brought together a range of stakeholders, including business and civil society leaders from Africa and across regions, high-level government officials, donors and representatives of international organisations.

At the conference, the WBI, the AfRBN, the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, the Young Americas Business Trust (YABT), the Egyptian Corporate Responsibility Centre (ECRC) and the U.S. State Department – in an effort to support entrepreneurship and promote responsible business practices across the continent, joined forces with African business leaders and created the Young Africa Business Trust (YAfBT). The AfRBN and YAfBT are networks of African business professionals working towards combining efforts for responsible business and governance with a particular emphasis on job creation and sustainable economic development. The AfRBN espouses environmental and sustainability best practices to meet local demand and development goals.

PS: I hope to write a follow-up blog post reflecting on this knowledgeexchange events and some further thoughts on the critical issues and key questions raised herein 

Black Business News International Edition -21- Spring 2011

www.ethicore.co.za/2011/06/07/african-growth-responsible-business

Choose to care.

Choose to celebrate.

Choose to dream.

At Comerica Bank, we choose to care about the dreams and visions of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. We choose to celebrate equality and diversity among all people, and we’re dedicated to ringing the bells of freedom. Choose to celebrate the dream with us.

Crenshaw 3825 Crenshaw Boulevard Los Angeles

El Segundo 2321 Rosecrans Avenue El Segundo

Wilshire-Crescent Heights 6301 Wilshire Boulevard Los Angeles

800-888-3595

Member FDIC. Equal Opportunity Lender.

www.comerica.com

Black Business News International Edition -22- Spring 2011

Notes on Zambia, the AGOA Host Nation Zambia’s Investment Climate from StrategicShift.net.

Strategic Shift has developed a periodic newsletter to share investment highlights from Zambia. These excerpts are a compilation of investment activities directly or indirectly affecting the investment climate in Zambia. The Zambian economy continues to exhibit signs of continued growth. Whether you look at conventional methods of economic evaluation such as GDP or the size and type of foreign direct investment, the economy is growing and the world is noticing. The information contained here comes from various sources. Visit www.strategicshift.net to read the full stories.

Konnoco Begins Development of its $400mn Konkola Copper Mine Project inZambia Konnoco Mining Limited commenced development of its Konkola North Copper Mine in Zambia with plans to produce more than 2 million tonnes of copper ore upon commencement of production next year, expecting to employ 1,500 people. The development of KONNOCO has begun at a cost of US$ 400 million and it is projected that the mine will have an annual production capacity of 2.5 million tonnes of ore when it starts operating next year.

Zambia Increases Net Capital Inflows from Direct Foreign Investments Zambia reportedly increased its net capital inflows, chiefly from direct foreign investments with mining pouring in about USD 2 billion because of increased investor confidence in the national economy. The International Monetary Fund (IMF), Zambia’s partner in economic development having assisted the country through various instruments including balance of payment support, stated that Zambia has in recent years improved in net inflows because of its resilience in growing the economy. Citing the lender’s World Economic and Financial Survey for Sub Saharan Africa economic outlook on recovery and new risks April 2011,

reports stated that while some countries have recorded no signs of recovery from the global financial crisis in terms of capital inflows, Zambia has posted notable strides especially in FDI. The economic growth in Zambia has been strong, boosted by the rising prices of the main export product, copper, on the international market. Zambia has recorded a modest pickup of net capital inflows, mainly in the form of FDI. This reflects increased confidence in the Zambian economy and privatization related inflows.

Growth has been strong and copper prices have recovered sharply. - http:// www.steelguru.com.

Zambia 2011 GDP Likely to Grow Above 7% Zambia’s economy is likely to grow beyond 7.0% in 2011 largely driven by investments in mining and infrastructure, Finance Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane said on Saturday. “We are set to have very good growth in 2011.

The numbers will be revised around July-August and I expect a very good number, even above 7%,” Musokotwane said. He added that Infrastructure development is going to be part of the growth process for Zambia. Zambia has planned to invest 1 trillion kwacha (US$216.7 million) in the rehabilitation of urban roads and the money would come from a US$500 million international bond and additional tax revenue from the mines, Musokotwane said.

The International Monetary Fund in March projected Zambia 2011 growth at 6.8%. Zambia’s economy grew 7.1% in 2010. Musokotwane also said that inflation was not likely to exceed the 8% end-year target following Zambia’s bumper maize harvest of over 3 million tonnes. Zambia’s headline consumer inflation slowed to 8.8% year-on-year in April, a rare example of easing price

pressures in Africa caused in part by a drop in the cost of basic food - http:// af.reuters.com.

Tourism to Mint US$412 Million Zambian President, Rupiah Banda, said the direct contribution of tourism to Zambia’s gross domestic product (GDP) is expected to reach US$412 million this year. This is about 2.3% of the country’s total GDP. The President said according to the World Travel and Tourism Council, tourism is expected to directly support 22,000 jobs. He said he was confident that by 2015, the country will meet the target of attracting four million international tourists yearly, by which year tourism is expected to contribute about eight percent of Zambia’s GDP. The President said the 2011 national budget has allocated K76 billion to various empowerment programmes - http://www.lusakatimes.com

ZAMTEL Optic Fibre Joins Namibia Network ZAMTEL has completed putting up the optic fibre network from Kazungula through Katimamulilo to the Namibian optic Fibre network, Chief Commercial Officer Amon Jere said. Jere said what had remained was to switch on the optic fibre network. He said this would allow access to the under sea cable with high internet and data capacity. The integrated Zesco/Zamtel network has advanced and the 3G network equipment has started arriving in Zambia. He said Zamtel would start switching on the 3G sites next month to give customers access to affordable broadband internet line. This will give Zamtel competitive edge in the mobile internet service industry. Jere said Zamtel wanted to play a role in prosperity on the Copperbelt by enabling its customers to do business cost effective and efficient - http:// www.times.co.zm.  www.strategicshift.net

Black Business News International Edition -23- Spring 2011

Resources for Going Global Below are upcoming U.S. Commercial Service initiatives designed to connect you to business opportunities around the world. Please read the article to learn more about each opportunity and find contact information. ᏊᏊᏊᏊᏊ Event: Export Controls: Application and Awareness Venue: Microsoft Conference Center, Redmond, WA Date: July 12-13, 2011 Cost: $195 Learn more/register: https://emenuapps.ita.doc.gov/ ePublic/newWebinarRegistration.jsp?SmartCode=1Q69 Do you need a firmer grasp of export controls and regulations to ensure your company is doing everything it can to comply with them? Join us for a July conference on export controls, hosted by Homeland Security Investigations, Microsoft and the U.S. Department of Commerce, Seattle U.S. Export Assistance Center. Raise your awareness of export controls and regulations and learn techniques to apply in your processes to help ensure you can avoid violations.

Webinar: Doing Business in Turkey Venue: Your Computer Date: July 14, 2011 Time: 11:00 AM est Learn more/register: https://emenuapps.ita.doc.gov/ePublic/newWebinarRegistration.jsp?SmartCode=1Q9J The U.S. Export Assistance Center in Baltimore, MD will host this webinar on short and medium-term export sales opportunities in Turkey, focusing on the renewable energy and energy efficiency sectors – an industry poised for sharp growth in the coming years and with major opportunities for American export sales. Access one of the world’s dynamic markets – with a special presentation by U.S. Ambassador to Turkey Francis J. Ricciardone (TBC) and a presentation

by Commercial Counselor, Michael Lally, U.S. Embassy Commercial Service Ankara, Turkey. Turkey’s rapidly expanding economy, the growing purchasing power of industry and consumers, and its effort to join the European Union have attracted the increasing attention of American exporters. The Webinar will feature a brief overview of the Turkish commercial environment, a review of hot sectors in Turkey, and a focus on specific short and medium-term business opportunities in the renewable and energy efficiency sectors.

The webinar will also cover specific case studies in successful U.S.-Turkish energy business partnerships. Participants will be able to ask live questions of U.S. Commercial Ser-

vice staff during the webinar. In addition, U.S. Commercial Service staff in Turkey will highlight a U.S. Department of Commerce Executive-Led Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Trade Mission to Ankara, Istanbul, and Izmir, Turkey, to occur later this year.

For more information please visit www.buyusa.gov/fresno/105.html, or contact: Steve.Morrison@trade.gov, telephone: 410-962-4576, Paul.Matino@trade.gov, telephone: 410-962-4581, Glen.Roberts@trade.gov, telephone: 661637-0136.

Webinar: Taking American SMEs Global With Google Venue: Your Computer Date: July 19, 2011 Time: 10:00 am PST/1:00 pm EST Learn more/register: https://emenuapps.ita.doc.gov/ePublic/newWebinarRegistration.jsp?SmartCode=1Q9T Google Directors Alan Moss and Aliza Knox will present this one hour free webinar on the web tools that are available to help American small businesses expand internationally. During this webinar, you will hear just how big the global online opportunity is for your company and discover how Google clients have significantly expanded their businesses by selling to the world. You will learn how to use innovative tools, such as Google Global Market Finder which uses data from Internet searches conducted around the world to show the number of times people search for your keywords in Arabic, Chinese, English, or one of 56 languages; Google Translate Web Element which can translate webpages (or parts thereof) to help foreign customers navigate your site; Translator Toolkit , an online tool that allows you to potentially reduce your translation costs and lag times by providing an automatic machine translation of your website as well as allowing you to share your files through a web portal. Finally, you will learn how you can leverage Google AdWords to take your business global with a few clicks of a button.

Event: Export Compliance Workshop – Bureau of Industry & Security Venue: LAX Gateway Sheraton Date: August 10-11, 2011 More information or to register: http://www.buyusa.gov/ pacificsouth/bis.html The U.S. Commercial Service - Your Global Business Partner. With offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration uses its global Network and international resources to connect U.S companies with international buyers worldwide. If you have any questions about these initiatives, please contact your local U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist. To find the trade specialist nearest you please visit http://www.buyusa.gov/home/us.html.

Event: Business Development Mission to Peru and Chile Date: August 21-27, 2011 Learn more/register: http://www.buyusa.gov/neworleans/78.html

Black Business News International Edition -24- Spring 2011

Registration Deadline: June 24, 2011 Discover the opportunities that exist in these two vibrant marketplaces. This U.S. Department of Commerce Certified Business Development Trade Mission to Peru and Chile organized by LeCentre International will provide an excellent opportunity for U.S. firms to initiate or expand their business and exports into the Peruvian and Chilean markets by providing business-to-business introductions, meetings and networking with selected foreign participants as well as extensive market access information. Best prospects for U.S. exports to Peru and Chile include: Mining equipment, oil and gas equipment and services, marine, environmental, construction equipment, transportation, industrial and electrical machinery, pumps, valves and compressors, refined petroleum products, plastics, computers and telecommunications equipment, Electric power, power generation and transmission, renewable energy equipment, Construction equipment, Machinery and Supplies, Mining Equipment, Pollution Control Equipment, Water resources equipment and technologies, water and wastewater treatment equipment and technologies, engineering, and consulting services, Desalination equipment/technologies, Healthcare and Medical Equipment; Computer Hardware and Software; Food Processing and Packaging; Travel and Tourism, Franchising, Consumer oriented products for retail. All U.S. companies are encouraged to apply. For more information, please contact: Delilah.DeSouza@trade.gov; nyamusi.igambi@trade. gov; or PGustin@lafayettela.gov.

Event: Discover Opportunities in South Africa Venue: Johannesburg and Cape Town Date: September 19-23, 2011 Learn more/register: http://www.export.gov/trademissions/ southafrica2011/ Registration Deadline: July 18, 2011 The United States Department of Commerce, International Trade Administration, U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service (CS) is organizing this trade mission. Led by a senior Department of Commerce official, this trade mission will introduce U.S. businesses and service providers to key business contacts and allow them to explore new business opportunities. South Africa represents the largest economy and most sophisticated and diversified industrial and services sectors in Sub-Saharan Africa. The country also stands to benefit from rapid growth anticipated in many of its Sub-Saharan African trading partners. The mission will visit both Johannesburg and Cape Town, allowing participants to access two of the largest markets and business centers in the country. The itinerary consists of customized one-on-one business appointments with potential agents, distributors and partners, market briefings, and meetings with key government officials. For more information, please contact

Teresa.Yung@trade.gov or telephone: 202-482-5496.

Event: Watch Videos on some of the National Export Initiative Priority Markets Watch videos on these markets to discover why they are important and to learn about a few of the many sectors where U.S. companies are competitive. 58 percent of U.S. exporters export to only one market, mainly Canada. Many small and midsized companies that work with the U.S. Commercial Service have found new customers in dozens of markets. Among the best prospect markets for U.S. companies are Vietnam, India, Indonesia, China, Taiwan and Thailand.

From these short videos, you’ll learn why these markets are important. You’ll also learn about a few of the many sectors where U.S. companies are competitive. Importantly, you’ll also meet the top U.S. commercial diplomats in these markets who, along with their staff of local market and industry experts, will help you evaluate, enter and succeed. Please visit http://export.gov/nei/eg_main_033266.asp Activity: Commercial News USA Offers Free Korean Translation Commercial News USA, the official export promotion magazine of the U.S. Department of Commerce, offers exporters an inexpensive way to promote their products and services in 178 countries worldwide. Now, you can take advantage of a special offer: Buy two ads and get the third ad for free (Based on one-time rates. This does not include the Showcase section). Moreover, advertisers in the September-October issue will receive a free listing ad online in Korean.

Commercial News USA reaches more than a quarter-million buyers worldwide. Reserve your space in the next issue today. For more information, call 1-800-581-8533, x 822, or visit www.thinkglobal.us, or e-mail advertise@thinkglobal. us.

Marketing: Sell Your Products Worldwide in the USA Product Showcase Commercial News USA, the official export promotion magazine of the U.S. Department of Commerce, offers exporters an affordable way to promote their products and services in 178 countries worldwide. Now, you can advertise in the USA Product Showcase section of the magazine for just $499.

Commercial News USA reaches more than a quarter million buyers worldwide. Reserve your space in the next issue today. For more information, call 1-800-581-8533, x 822, go online to www.thinkglobal.us/499, or send e-mail to advertise@thinkglobal.us.

Marketing: Promote Your Company on the New Commercial News USA Website The newly redesigned Commercial News USA website makes it easier for buyers around the world to find American companies with products and services ready for immediate export. Commercial News USA features hundreds of products and services from U.S. exporters. Participants in the current issue of the magazine are featured in a rotating carousel at the top of the page. Now, international buyers can search the site by company name or industry category.

There also is a search box at the top of the page that enables searching by keyword. The site currently attracts 23,000 in-

Black Business News International Edition -25- Spring 2011

SERVING THE INDUSTRY and the TRADE PIPE - VALVES - FITTINGS - METALS - TOOLS PROCESS CONTROLS - INSTRUMENTATION - WATER WORKS

Brandon Supply Corporation is a world class distributor of industrial supplies.

Brandon has been proven to be a dependable source of supply to the petrochemical, power generation and waterworks industries providing fast and reliable service.

Brandon, in maintaining the policy of selling only superior products, represents only the nation's top manufacturers.

SBA CERTIFIED We offer a full range of valves for all piping applications, pressure tubing in all sizes and schedules, a complete line of fittings, flanges and couplings in all metallurgies.

We also offer a full range in PVC, HDPE and other materials.

Clarence D. Scott, CEO CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS 14120 Gannet Street Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670

MAILING ADDRESS P.O. Box 5354 Buena Park, CA 90623

Phone: 562-921-0407 | FAX: 562-921-5945 800.238.5906 (Outside California) www.brandonsupply.com | cdavis@brandonsupplycorp.com

ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

Resources for Going Global from page 25

ternational buyers per month. Advertisers in the print magazine are included for free on the website. For more information and/or to review the current issue of the magazine, please visit www.thinkglobal.us.

AccessAmerica – Reach Chinese Investors and Clients “AccessAmerica” is our online Chinese-language directory of U.S. firms that provide customized services to Chinese investors and firms that want to do business in the U.S. The “AccessAmerica” Service Provider directory gives U.S.based companies and economic development agencies access and exposure to Chinese clients who seek U.S. expertise in global logistics, trade finance, HR, site selection, tax, insurance, legal and regulatory issues, marketing, and other support related to investing in the U.S. AccessAmerica is promoted extensively throughout China, featured on the U.S. Embassy Chinese webpage and featured at all Invest in America programs here and in China. Your listing will include company information, company logo, and contact details, all translated into Chinese, for a one-year subscription fee of $400. Increase your visibility in China and boost your service exports. Learn more: http://www.buyusa.gov/china/en/ access_america.html. For more information, please contact julie.carducci@trade.gov.

Export Promotion Magazine Rolls Out Redesigned Website Exporters can take advantage of the newly redesigned Commercial News USA website to help them connect with buyers worldwide. The new website features a rotating carousel that highlights advertisers in Commercial News USA. International buyers can now search the site by keyword or by industry category. The site currently attracts more than 23,000 visitors per month. For more details and/or to review the current issue of the magazine, visit http:// www.thinkglobal.us.

U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist. To find the trade specialist nearest you please visit www.buyusa.gov/home/ us.html or contact Bobby Hines at bobby.hines@trade.gov. 

International Edition

Black Business News International Edit

ion

Black Business News

To be added to the International Edition mailing list or to advertise in the publication send an e-mail request to: info@ blackbusinessnews.net.

View the International Edition at www.bbala.org, www.blackbusinessnews.net, snews net and www.yudu.com Search: Black Busines News International Serving the Globa

l African Economic

Fall 2008 USD$5.00

Corporate Givin

g: EOY charita opportunities in health, education, ble ing, and more. hous-

Tourism:

Investment in Africa’ s tourism industry is active, all across the contin vital and is evident ent.

Feature Articles: “Strategies For Cons Engagement with tructisve the African Diaspora ”

“Diaspora Enga gement: Remittances & Beyond”

Investment ProƤ le: Moyo District

of the Republic

ᏊᏊᏊᏊᏊ

Community

Contents

of Uganda

Professional Direc tory

Charitable Inves

tments

The U.S. Commercial Service - Your Global Business Partner. With offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration uses its global Network and international resources to connect U.S companies with international buyers worldwide.

If you have any questions about these initiatives, please contact your local

Black Business News International Edition -27- Spring 2011

Rev. Leon R. Perry , III in Ghana with

see Corporate Giving recently orpaned twins page 21

Tony Elumelu Foundation Announces Impact Investment Deal with Mtanga Farms in Tanzania by the Tony Elumelu Foundation

M

tanga Farms Limited is a mixed arable farming business operating in the Southern Tanzanian Highlands. MFL owns approximately 2,200 hectares under long-term lease and is currently planting wheat, barley, maize and certain oil crops. It has further established a livestock operation consisting of local cattle for fattening and a herd to cross breed higher quality cattle for premium meat. The Southern Tanzanian Highlands are the focus of Tanzania’s effort to promote agriculture, are a cornerstone to Tanzania’s ‘Kilimo Kwanza’ (agriculture first) initiative and have significant potential to improve Tanzania’s food security. All of MFL’s crops, including livestock, are for domestic consumption and will substitute imports, thereby contributing to Tanzania’s emergence as a major food commodity producer.

The deal marks the first time an African philanthropic organization and investment firm have engaged together in impact investing, an approach that, unlike traditional grant-making, uses for-profit methods to solve intractable social and environmental problems – in this case agriculture development.

“With this deal, we hope to set a new standard for both philanthropy and investing within Africa,” said Founder and Chairman Tony O. Elumelu. “Through impact investing, we seek to drive African economic growth from within by investing in businesses that generate social, environmental, and financial returns. This can also change the paradigm of how development takes place on the continent.”

The deal was made jointly by two partner institutions: TEF, a newly established “catalytic foundation,” and Heirs Holdings, a principal investing com-

pany with a long term investment horizon.

Both TEF and Heirs Holdings, promoted by the former CEO of United Bank for Africa ; one of Africa’s largest financial services instructions, are based in Nigeria, where some of the continent’s most innovative financial deals have been struck in the last decade. Londonbased Lion’s Head Global Partners acted as financial adviser to Mtanga Farms. The deal was the first outside of Nigeria for Heirs Holdings.

Aside from the broader, continentwide implications of the investment, the Mtanga deal will touch the everyday lives of hundreds of thousands of low income people in rural Tanzania, improving farmers’ access to inputs and technology, creating infrastructure for farmers to bring their products to markets and contributing to the development of the Southern Tanzanian Highlands, one of the most promising untapped areas of agriculture production in East Africa.

Specifically, this deal will help Mtanga establish a seed potato industry, which will significantly benefit more than 125,000 local smallholder farmers who have proven able to increase yields threefold when provided with clean seed potatoes. The effort is remarkable in that it unblocks a market that has been neglected for the past 30

Mtanga Farms, Tanzania

years, with no new potato varieties registered in Tanzania and no clean seed available for farmers for decades.

Integral to this effort is Mtanga’s partnership with TransFarm Africa, a nonprofit initiative established to enhance the link between commercial farmers and smallholders, to promote agricultural growth corridors and to unblock barriers where they arise for the farming sector.

What makes the deal so crucial as an impact investment is this that its operations are focused on delivering commercial returns while also delivering development benefits to local farmers and communities. Further, the farm is operated at the highest standards of environmental sustainability for soil and water management. Mtanga interacts closely with local farmers by sharing equipment, collaborating with the government to grow seeds and providing access to markets for local cattle herders.

“Mtanga Farms is an example of how responsible foreign investment in agriculture can be commercially viable, environmentally sustainable, and also create substantial social impact through

Black Business News International Edition -28- Spring 2011

see Global Trade Conference on page 29

Mtanga Farms Deal from page 28

the benefits to small holder farmers and the contribution to food security. These are the kinds of sector specific criteria TEF considers when making impact investing funding decisions,” said Dr. Wiebe Boer, the Foundation’s chief executive. “This is a great example of why impact investing is such a powerful concept – in this case because the financial return potential was attractive, we were able to catalyze private funds into an effort that has a substantial development impact.”

Impact investing is TEF’s primary tool for supporting Africa’s small and growing businesses. Unlike most philanthropies, TEF sees grants as a last resort, and believes impact investing is a much more sustainable means of capitalization because of the entrepreneurial rigour that comes with requiring a financial return. When impact investments also attract traditional private capital, the impact goes even further.

Any proceeds from an eventual exit from the investment on the part of TEF will be put back into the endowment of the Foundation for additional impact investments and other Foundation activities.

Dr. Boer noted that the Mtanga investment is a prime example of African investors reaching across borders to inject capital into other economies, fa-

cilitate trade, and deliver new or improved products and services.

TEF’s strategy mirrors Heirs Holdings, which is based on a conviction that Africa’s economic prowess rests not only on much-needed infrastructure development but also on a vibrant private sector operating in key development sectors, represented in Tanzania by the Mtanga deal.

Mtanga Farms was set up in 2008 by a group of Tanzanian business people and a local farmer, and has since received investments from Lion’s Head Global Partners, a UK merchant bank focused on Africa, and the Calvert Foundation.

About The Tony Elumelu Foundation www.tonyelumelufoundation.org The Tony Elumelu Foundation seeks to contribute to the economic transformation of the African continent through fostering Africa’s business and entrepreneurial leadership. It is focused on building and engaging the African private sector to take the lead in driving Africa’s equitable economic transformation. Prior to establishing the Foundation, Tony O. Elumelu led United Bank for Africa, one of Africa’s leading financial services groups, through its transformation from a single-country focused bank to a diversified business,

operating across Africa and the world.

About Heirs Holdings www.heirsholdings.com Heirs Holdings Limited is a principal investment company with a diversified portfolio, including interests in the financial services, real estate, infrastructure, resources and other key sectors critical to Africa’s economic development.

Mtanga Farms Limited (MFL) Located in the Iringa Region of Tanzania, MFL is a for-profit agricultural business that strives to increase crop production through improved farming methods and technology, share cropping, and farm contracting. Bolstered by investment dollars, MFL plans to start a seed potato business in which they will produce genetically stronger potato seeds to sell to farmers. Furthermore, MFL is starting an Outgrower Program that builds connections with local farmers by contracting parts of its 1,600 hectares of land for local farming. This program also provides advanced farming techniques, technology, and items such as fertilizer that are necessary for local farmers to thrive. 

Black Business News International Edition -29- Spring 2011

The Missing Middle Initiative The Missing Middle Initiative was launched at the World Economic Forum in Davos, January 2010, part of the Young Global Leader´s Global Redesign Initiative.

Issue: The “Missing Middle” refers to the gap in capital in emerging markets, which is larger than microfinance and smaller than traditional institutional financing. In the developed world, this segment of capital exists and supports small-medium sized enterprises (SMEs), but in developing economies it is largely absent, creating a financing hurdle for establishing a robust SME base. The issue of the Missing Middle extends beyond just a lack of capital; and includes the lack of support, infrastructure and overlaying networks of intermediaries, institutions, and investors.

Opportunity: The Missing Middle presents a unique opportunity for emerging market investors to achieve both competitive financial returns and significant social impact, addressing some of the largest income and wealth gaps faced by developing countries and communities around the world. Closing this funding gap is the next stage of capital development after microfinance, completing the financing food chain throughout a business’s life. While microfinance typically does not scale beyond local markets nor aimed at job creation outside an immediate group, small-medium sized capital targets larger and more sustainable economic and social growth opportunities.

Mission: The purpose of the Missing Middle Initiative is to put a spotlight on the gap in capital in emerging markets, accelerate the momentum of SME Venture Funds, and showcase best practices of fund structures, intermediaries and institutions. At the center of the initiative is an investment philosophy focused on investing in emerging markets and industry sectors that are ready for capital, not just in need, supporting a trade vs. aid strategy and taking a no compromise approach on financial returns and social impact.

The team leading the initiative includes: • J. Skyler Fernandes – COO of The South African Chamber of Commerce in America and venture capitalist at Centripetal Capital Partners • Euvin Naidoo – co-President of The South African Chamber of Commerce in America • James Wanjohi – Managing Director; The Branson School of Entrepreneurship To contact and/or get involved please send an e-mail inquiry: info@sacca.biz To learn more about the initiative view the Global Redesign Initiative at http://redesignourworld.com To view other documents on the Missing Middle Initiative access: • www.sacca.biz/backend/ media/2272010113630PM/MissingMiddleInitiativeWEFJan.10.pdf • www.sacca.biz/backend/ media/2272010113630PM/MissingMiddleInitiativeYGLGRI.pdf

A 2011 study by the Economist found that over the last 10 years, no fewer than six of the world’s ten fastestgrowing economies were in sub-Saharan Africa. Even more optimistically, the IMF forecasts that over the next 5 years seven of the world’s top ten fastest growing economies will be in Africa and will include countries like Ethiopia, Tanzania, Congo, Ghana, Zambia and Nigeria.What is fueling Africa’s rapid growth?

An emerging middle class driving domestic demand and a host of other issues have placed Africa on the verge of a new era where it can it transform the livelihoods of millions if its inhabitants and alter its perception in the global community.

Black Business News International Edition -30- Spring 2011

The Kaufman iStart Business Idea Competition Site Collects More Than 1,200 Business Ideas Worldwide www.iStart.org.

i

Start, a customizable Web-based platform that simplifies how organizations market and administer business competitions worldwide, is picking up speed as students access the site to fulfill their dreams of becoming successful entrepreneurs. iStart.org is a single resource that allows student entrepreneurs to share ideas and gain access to an international network of competitions and mentors. For administrators, the platform helps with complex tasks, including managing and monitoring applicant entries, establishing judging criteria and conducting online judging.

Since its launch in 2010, the website, hosted by the Kauffman Foundation, has gathered more than 1,200 businesses ideas from 44 countries, including Albania, Kenya, Afghanistan, Israel and Ukraine. Business idea categories include Internet (websites), Information Technology, Life Sciences, Social Entrepreneurship, Services, Green, Materials, Consumer Goods and Energy.

“We believe experiential opportunities are important for entrepreneurs to network and learn - especially for students and others in the idea phase. iStart creates a network of opportunities for student and aspiring entrepreneurs to get global exposure, make connections and learn through competitions,” said Lesa Mitchell, vice president of

Advancing Innovation at the Kauffman Foundation. “With their ideas accessible to mentors and investors and potential teaming partners, entrepreneurs can more quickly gain momentum in their business planning process.”

Some 40 different competitions hosted by businesses and universities globally are currently using iStart.

Rice University utilizes the platform for its annual intercollegiate business plan competition, which has the largest judging panel and distributes the most prize money of any such competition in the world. Other competitions include the Harvard College Innovation Challenge, Emerging Postdoctoral Entrepreneur Award and Kellogg Cup. “Business plan, pitch and idea competitions play a key role in entrepreneurial education and often kick-start an idea for an aspiring entrepreneur.

That’s why we want to make these competitions more accessible to students and easier for administrators,” said Katie Petersen, who manages the iStart program for the Kauffman Foun-

Some 40 different competitions hosted by businesses and universities globally are currently using iStart. dation. “Our customizable platform is one-of-a-kind, and we hope becomes the go-to site for entering business plan competitions around the world, browsing abstracts and networking with innovative, energized entrepreneurs. We want to help make dreams a reality.”

To learn more and take part in the iStart program, visit: www.iStart.org. 

Black Business News International Edition -31- Spring 2011

In the Spotlight Film Festivals

T

he 6th Annual Kenya Film Festival will be held in October 2011 from the 21st to the 30th in Nairobi, Nakuru, Kisumu, Mombasa, and Eldoret. The festival theme is “Leadership”. The Call for Entries is 30 June 2011.

Visit the festival website at www.kifftrust.org for details.

The festival is a robust event with a mix of cultural, artistic expression through film, and an intellectual discourse through workshops and seminars geared towards the development of

a vibrant film industry on the African continent. It aims at showcasing the creative and artistic talent that abounds on this continent, which is crying to be seen and heard.

Recent film festivals include the Zanzibar International Film Festival that was held from 18 to 26 June 2011. Review the festival at www.ziff.or.tz. 

Ethiopian Airlines gets Boeing award

E

thiopian Airlines has been awarded the 2010 Silver Boeing Performance Excellence Award for its outstanding performance in manufacturing aircraft body parts.

The airline has been manufacturing and supplying Boeing aircraft wiring from its Wire Kits Harness plant in Addis Ababa since July 2009.

The plant manufactures certified seat to seat aircraft interior wires of different types for Boeing 737, 747, 767 and 777 – 200LRs jet aircrafts.

Ethiopian Airlines Wire Kit Harness Manufacturing Plant is one of the only 417 suppliers that were chosen among thousands of suppliers to receive the Silver level of recognition.

Ethiopian Airlines is one of the most successful carriers in Africa currently operating four of the latest Boeing 777 – 200 long range planes which were acquired early this year.

Boeing issues the award annually to recognise manufacturers and suppliers of its aircrafts’ body parts who have achieved superior performance. www.boeingsuppliers.com/recognition/cur_year_win.html 

The Global African Diaspora Summit Consultative Process to Continue The 16th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Summit took note of the Assembly Decision and of the Report on the Diaspora Initiative and the Global African Diaspora Summit; reiterated its request for the Commission to continue to work together with Member States to ensure the successful preparation and conduct of the Diaspora Summit and the advancement of the Diaspora initiative in general; requested the PRC and the Commission to support efforts aimed at the successful outcome of the programme leading to the African Global Diaspora Summit; further requested Member States, leaders of the Caribbean Community, South America, and the African Diaspora population worldwide to continue to support the implementation of the Roadmap and processes leading up to the Global African Diaspora Summit.

The African Union preferred definition of the African Diaspora encompasses the following: (a) Bloodline and/or heritage: The Diaspora should consist of people living outside the continent whose ancestral roots or heritage are in Black Africa;

Black Business News International Edition -32- Spring 2011

(b) Migration: The Diaspora should be composed of people of Black African heritage, who migrated from or are living outside the continent. In this context, three trends of migration were identified - pre-slave trade, slave trade, and post-salve trade or modern migration; (c) The principle of inclusiveness: The definition must embrace both ancient and modern Diaspora; and (d) The commitment to the African case: The Diaspora should be people who are willing to be part of the continent (or the African family). www.afrik-news.com/ pressrelease2423.html 

Worst Drought in 60 Years Hitting Horn of Africa - Reuters The worst drought in 60 years in the Horn of Africa has sparked a severe food crisis and high malnutrition rates,

with parts of Kenya and Somalia experiencing pre-famine conditions, the United Nations said on Tuesday.

More than 10 million people are now affected in drought-stricken areas of Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia and Uganda and the situation is deteriorating, it said.

“Two consecutive poor rainy seasons have resulted in one of the driest years since 1950/51 in many pastoral zones,” Elisabeth Byrs, spokeswoman of the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, told a media briefing.

“There is no likelihood of improvement (in the situation) until 2012,” she said.

Food prices have risen substantially in the region, pushing many moderately poor households over the edge, she said.

A U.N. map of food security in the eastern Horn of Africa shows large swathes of central Kenya and Somalia in the “emergency” category, one phase before what the U.N. classifies as catastrophe/famine -- the fifth and

worst category.

Child malnutrition rates in the worst affected areas are more than double the emergency threshold of 15 percent and are expected to rise further, Byrs said.

High mortality rates among children are reported, but she had no figures for the toll.

Drought and fighting are driving ever greater numbers of Somalis from their homeland, with more than 20,000 arriving in Kenya in just the past two weeks, the U.N. refuge agency UNHCR said on Friday. It voiced alarm at the dramatic rise, noting the average monthly outflow had been about 10,000 so far this year.

Almost half the Somali children arriving in refugee camps in Ethiopia are malnourished, and those arriving in Kenya are little better, Byrs said.

U.N. humanitarian appeals for Somalia and Kenya, each about $525 million, are barely 50 percent funded, while a $30 million appeal for Djibouti is just 30 percent funded, she said. 

Approximately one-sixth population currently live river basins where popu projected to increase, pa such as the Indo-Gange

In South Asia, where the most vulnerable people live in the river deltas of Myanmar, Bangladesh, India and Pakistan, population growth has contributed to increased farming in the coastal regions most at risk from flooding and sea-level rise.

0 years, category 5 hurricane sulted in an average loss of of 10% in the coastal states year, effecting mostly ly on a single crop.

35

rain-fed.

0% , while

%

% ry gh

hi

gh

hi

w

m

iu

lo

w

lo

Sources: FAO (2009) The State of Food Insecurity in the World 2009 and FAOSTAT

ve

ry

Percentage of population undernourished

ed

m

ve

%

%

%

-5

-9

0

-2

5

-3

0

-7

20 9 5 1

Hydrological disasters accounted for 86.7% of economic damage from natural disasters in Africa in 2009.

Hunger and Climate Vulnerability Index

The United Nations Declares 2012 the “International Year of Sustainable Energy for All”

A

bout 1.5 billion people have no access to electric power—whether clean, dirty or somewhere in between. So in declaring it the “International Year of Sustainable Energy for All,” the United Nations gave 2012 a very tall order. To help fill it, they’re encouraging governments worldwide to join forces with the private sector.

At a UN Summit Meeting in New York recently, a group of 12 big electric companies announced plans to bring cleaner power to people living in far-flung, often off-grid places. In their report, the Global Sustainable Electricity Partnership (previously dubbed e8 www.e8.org/en) laid out guidelines for creating private-public partnerships.

They call for governments, private companies, academic institutions, international organizations and local communities to come together to develop energy projects with low-tozero carbon emissions.

Where reliable sources of electricity are hard to come by, so are the standards of living that come with them. Without clean energy to cook meals, for instance, people burn wood, charcoal, peat and other biomass. They often do it indoors. Such daily doses of air pollution can lead to serious health problems, which cause a reported 2 million premature deaths each year, mostly women and children.

What is the e8?

Created in the wake of the 1992 Rio Summit, the e8 is a non-profit international organization, composed of 10 world leading electricity companies, whose mission is to play an active role in global electricity issues within the

international framework and to promote sustainable energy development through electricity sector projects and human capacity building activities in developing and emerging nations worldwide.

The strategic objectives are to: • Develop joint policy frameworks and implement related initiatives in both domestic and international markets.

at large. Each rotating year culminates in an annual e8 Summit, where the Chairmen meet to exchange opinions in view of advancing the debate on such key issues as the role of the global electricity sector in climate change mitigation, technology cooperation, security of supply and sustainable development.

The 2010-2011 e8 Chair is American

• Engage in the global debates on electricity-related issues, taking joint positions.

• Provide information and expertise on the efficient generation and use of electricity to assist developing countries in strengthening their human capabilities.

Electric Power and the theme advanced by the e8 is “Strengthening Public-Private Partnerships to Accelerate Global Electricity Technology Deployment”.

Organisation Structure of e8 The e8 operates with a minimal and flexible organisational structure, under the principles of shared and rotating responsibilities. The e8 General Secretariat is located in Montreal, Canada. To learn about our structure, click here.

Each year, one of the member companies assumes the Chairmanship of the organisation. The Chair company chooses a theme for the year around which to focus the organisation’s activities. The e8 member companies translate their experience on this relevant global energy theme into policy opinions that are shared with policymakers, electricity providers, international partners, and civil society

e8 projects in progress Water shortage is an issue with dramatic consequences in the Maghreb region of North Africa. Desalination and water purification constitute one of the main sources for the production of fresh water, especially in southern desert regions.

The e8 initiated the Maghreb Water and Electricity Project with the objective to demonstrate the feasibility of addressing fresh water shortage issues in Africa in a sustainable manner. By powering desalination plants with locally available renewable energy sources, fresh water can be made available to even remote villages with limited access to grid electricity.

The e8 conducted an extensive survey across several North-African countries to assess the replicability of the project

Black Business News International Edition -34- Spring 2011

see Energy For All on page 35

Energy For All from page 34

in rural areas based on local needs and suitability. Twenty six villages in Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia were identified as potential implementation sites.

The area in the proximity of the drought-stricken village of Kebili in southern Tunisia was selected as the pilot site for a wind powered

study.

The financial structure of the €2.5 million project is under development and is expected to be finalised by September 2010. The project is then scheduled to enter the implementation phase in late 2010/early 2011.

The Maghreb Water and Electricity Project will: • Provide a replicable model for renewable energy-based fresh water production;

sustainable energy development and to encourage meaningful contributions to the collective body of knowledge about this subject.

The e8 considers an outstanding student to be one • who graduates with excellent grades in the top 20% of her/his class • who is determined to advance her/his knowledge and understanding • who has a history of community involvement

Light bulbs aglow around the world desalination unit, a reverse osmosis system (ROS) of about 600 m3/day capacity. Once completed, the plant will meet up to 10 % of the village’s daily fresh water demand.

Following the signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI) by the e8, ANME (Tunisian National Agency for Energy Conservation) and SONEDE (Tunisia’s National Water Authority), a technical survey of the Kebili site was completed in November 2009 to validate the acceptability of the site proposed by the local partners. A Steering and Technical Committee was then created to followup on the development of the project and under their supervision, a wind measurement mast will be installed in May 2010 to finish compiling the wind data needed to complete the feasibility

• Contribute to addressing drinking water shortages in drought-stricken regions of Africa; • Help improve rural populations’ health and general living conditions; • Promote the use of locally available renewable energy sources for fresh water and electricity production; • Enhance local players’ know-how and capacity to design, operate and maintain wind-based power supply units integrated with ROS systems; • Help avoid 1,000 to 1,800 tons of CO² emissions per year.

About the e8 Education Scholarship Program?

The purpose of the e8 scholarship is to support outstanding students pursuing advanced studies in

• who is committed to sustainable energy • who is committed to return and contribute to her/his home country Who is eligible?

To be eligible to apply for this scholarship, students must • plan to undertake studies at the Masters level in areas directly related to sustainable energy development • be citizens of the developing countries and territories identified for OECD official development aid in the DAC List of ODA Recipients effective as of 2006 While the application period for 2011 has passed the details of applying for 2012 may be found at www.e8.org/en/ index.jsp?numPage=195. 

Black Business News International Edition -35- Spring 2011

W

ith its growing influence as an ICT development hub and its leaning towards innovative use of technology - is gaining currency as the venue of choice for companies that are keen to use the city as their hub to reach other parts of Africa.

In the last six months, firms such as Airtel, Comviva, Samsung, IBM and Google have moved to strengthen their regional headquarters as they gear up for a push into the continent.

“Over 30 per cent of our revenue now comes from the African continent.

We are in the process of expanding our pan-Africa operations significantly and as part of this further expansion will create 200 jobs across the region,” said Manoranjan Mohapatra, CEO, Comviva.

A growing number of multinational companies has selected Nairobi as their centre of operations in the continent as multinationals seek physical presence and local intelligence in markets where they previously relied on representatives.

Research house IDC says the main driver for this impetus is the continent’s Sh527 billion IT market, which is creating new competitive fields for international firms who are keen to gain a piece of the emerging opportunities within the region as they seek new grounds for growth.

IDC says that it expects regional IT spending to rise by 10 per cent this year, mainly driven by increasing trust and confidence in the public sector, where the revamping of “outmoded regulatory regimes” will spur investments in e-government.

“Information and Communication Technology (ICT) will be increasingly recognised as a key driver of economic growth and productivity across the Middle East and Africa,” said Mukesh Chulani, senior research analyst at IDC. Mr. Chulani said regional governments see ICTs as a means of supporting innovation through more efficient utilisation of capital and labour.

In particular, one major deal has been pivotal in attracting the interest of several firms in the sector. Last year, when Indian mobile firm Bharti Airtel

Technology Companies Plot Assault on the African Continent allAfrica.com bought the 16 African operations of Zain Africa, its lean operational model created new opportunities for companies who are keen to capture a share of its outsourced operations.

So far, the deal has spurred five companies - Comviva, IBM, Ogilvy, Ericsson and Huawei - to realign their operations in order to handle demand of the contract.

Comviva recently won a landmark deal with Airtel Africa to provide end-to-end management of the mobile firm’s VAS services. As part of the five-year deal, Comviva will manage all VAS nodes across Airtel’s 16 operations in Africa. Earlier this year, Comviva partnered with leading content aggregators to further strengthen its content portfolio offering in the region.

Last November, American technology firm IBM won the opportunity to handle Airtel’s IT systems.

“Africa is in a period of transition.

Banks, telecommunications firms, and governments are all investing heavily in solutions and our role as an enabler becomes even more critical during this period. It is now essential for us to be in these markets physically,” said Tony Mwai, general manager of IBM Kenya.

Expansion programme IBM recently announced that it was embarking on the second phase of its Africa-wide expansion programme as it seeks new opportunities in emerging markets where it sees potential for growth.

The firm, which already runs a 20 country operation from Nairobi, said it intends to increase the number of offices in Africa to 40 within the next four years.

“While older markets are squeezing value out of their legacy IT installations, markets like Africa have the flexibility to leap-frog to the technologies that are more relevant to their needs. The growth opportunity in these markets is

especially attractive at this time,” said Mr. Mwai.

IBM is banking on a strategic mix of products to reach a growing number of clients in the country that will see it shed its more familiar role as a hardware provider to become a firm that provides customised solutions for its clients, ranging from software suites to specialist consulting services.

A large part of this growth will be made possible by partnerships with higher education facilities, which the firms hope to mine to tap into the growing number of partnerships between IT firms and universities.

“We plan to create jobs for 200 people in the first phase, creating employment opportunities for talented individuals and providing all necessary training for those recruited directly from schools and colleges. We have already made over 35 offers to fresh technical graduates in East Africa,” said Sandyp Bhattacharya, Vice President - HR, Comviva. 

Black Business News International Edition -36- Spring 2011

Hedge Funds Create Volatility in Global Food Supply with Land Grabs Across Africa Financial backers – including U.S universities and pension funds – are lured by high returns and turn a blind eye to theft of land, displacement of people

H

edge funds and other foreign speculators are increasing price volatility and supply insecurity in the global food system, according to a series of investigative reports released today by the Oakland Institute. The reports are based on the actual materials from these land deals and include investigation of investors, purchase contracts, business plans and maps never released before now.

The “Understanding Land Investment Deals in Africa” reports also reveal that these largely unregulated land purchases are resulting in virtually none of the promised benefits for native populations, but instead are forcing millions of small farmers off ancestral lands and small, local food farms in order to make room for export commodities, including biofuels and cut flowers.

“The same financial firms that drove us into a global recession by inflating the real estate bubble through risky financial maneuvers are now doing the same with the world’s food supply,” said Anuradha Mittal, executive director of the Oakland Institute. “In Africa this is resulting in the displacement of small farmers, environmental devastation, water loss and further political instability such as the food riots that preceded the Tunisian and Egyptian revolutions.”

Mittal added that for people living in developed countries, the conversion of African small farms and forests into a natural-asset-based, high-return investment strategy can drive up food prices and increase the risks of climate change.

“The research exposed investors who said it’s easy to make a land deal – that they could usually get what they want in exchange for giving a poor, tribal chief a bottle of Johnny Walker,” Mittal said. “When these investors prom-

ise progress and jobs to local chiefs, it sounds great – but they don’t deliver, which means no progress and relocating people from their homes.”

New reports and materials on these deals examine on-the-ground implications in several African nations including Ethiopia, Mali, Sierra Leone, Mozambique, Tanzania and South Sudan – and expose contracts that connect land grabs back to institutional investors in these nations and others. In addition to publicly sharing – for the first time -- the paperwork behind these deals, the reports demonstrate how common land grabs are and how quickly this phenomenon is taking place. Investors in these deals include not only alternative investment firms like Emergent Asset Management – that works to attract speculators, but also universities including Harvard, Spellman and Vanderbilt.

Contracts also reveal a bonanza of incentives for speculators ranging from unlimited water rights to tax waivers.

“No one should believe that these investors are there to feed starving Africans, create jobs or improve food security, Obang Metho of Solidarity Movement for New Ethiopia said.

“These land grab agreements – many of which could be in place for 99 years – do not mean progress for local people and will not lead to food in their stomachs. These deals lead only to dollars in the pockets of corrupt leaders and foreign investors.”

In 2009 alone nearly 60 million hectares – an area the size of France – was purchased or leased in these land grabs. Most of these deals are characterized by a lack of transparency, despite the profound implications posed by the consolidation of control over global food markets and agricultural re-

sources by financial firms.

“We have seen cases of speculators taking over agricultural land while small farmers, viewed as “squatters” are forcibly removed with no compensation,” said Frederic Mousseau, policy director at the Oakland Institute. “This is creating insecurity in the global food system that could be a much bigger threat to global security than terrorism.

More than one billion people around the world are living with hunger. The majority of the world’s poor still depend on small farms for their livelihoods, and speculators are taking these away while promising progress that never happens.”

These reports, as well as briefs on other aspects of land grabs, are available at http://media.oaklandinstitute. org. 

...Investors in these deals include not only alternative investment firms like Emergent Asset Management – that works to attract speculators, but also universities including Harvard, Spellman and Vanderbilt ...

The Oakland Institute is an independent policy think tank whose mission is to increase public participation and promote fair debate on critical social, economic, and environmental issues (www.oaklandinstitute.org). The Oakland Institute, P.O. Box 18978, Oakland, CA 94619, info@oaklandinstitute. org reported by: Liam O’Donoghue, lodonoghue@fenton.com, (415) 9010111; Brad Tucker, btucker@fenton. com, (212) 584-5000

Black Business News International Edition -37- Spring 2011

First Lady’s Tour to Southern Africa

International

US First Lady Michelle Obama and her daughters met with 92-year-old Nobel Peace Prize winner

seum in Johannesburg. The First Lady, along with daughters Sasha and Malia, read “The Cat In The Hat” to children at the Zandspruit Township Daycare Center during an event at the Emthonjeni Community Center in Johannesburg.

Before the museum tour, the First Lady met the 75 young women Youth

ABOVE: Ms. Michelle Obama with former President Nelson Mandela at his home.

First Family arrives BELOW: South African First Lady Ms Nompumelelo in South Africa Ntuli-Zuma welcomed First Lady of the United States Michelle Obama at Mahlamba Ndlopfu in Pretoria on a he United States First Lady Nelson Mandela after visit to South Africa Michelle Obama today visited a visit to the the Nelson Mandela Centre M a n d e l a of Memory in Johannesburg on the Foundation.

M r s . first leg of her trip to South Africa and Obama, her Botswana. daughters, Accompanied by her mother Marian a Robinson, her daughters Malia and mother, niece and Sasha and her niece Leslie and her nephew Avery, Mrs Obama met n e p h e w members of Nelson Mandela’s family were all welcomed into and his wife Graca Machel.

Sello Hatang and Sahm Venter, the M a n d e l a ’ s co-editors of the soon to be released home in the book Nelson Mandela By Himself: The H o u g h t o n Authorised Quotations Book presented neighbourhood of JoMrs Obama with an advanced copy.

Mr Hatang and the head of the Nelson hannesburg. are Mandela Centre of Memory Verne Visits increasingly Harris showed the First Lady a display of archival items housed in the Nelson rare since Mandela Centre of Memory including M a n d e l a prison desk calendars, notebooks and was hospidraft letters. She was introduced to talised with an acute respiratory infec- Leaders she will be adressing later. tion in January.

These women came from across Africa Senior Archivist Razia Saleh.

First Lady Michelle Obama, along and are the reason we are here. These Mrs. Obama expressed appreciation with daughters Sasha and Malia, women have personal and professional for the display, and said “You are doing toured the exhibits at the Apartheid Mustories that will blow you away - there very important work”.

T

Black Business News International Edition -38- Spring 2011

First Family at the Apartheid Museum

U.S. First Lady Michelle Obama and Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu showed off their football skills while visiting Cape Town Stadium

was a lot of mutual-admiration in the room, and the First Lady made sure to tell them how inspiring these women were to her!

Speaking at Fuller Hall at the University of Cape Town (UCT) to over 50 pupils from five schools across the city, Michelle Obama said people of the world were looking to South Africa to become a world leader and that many Americans were behind the country.

US First Lady Michelle Obama on Thursday praised South Africans who had grown up under apartheid, overcome the oppressive system and built a country based on equality that had

become a role model for the rest of the world. Obama said through hard work the youth of today could achieve their dreams. “There is no magic dust that helps students achieve at a place like this, now-a-days it is more how hard you can work and more importantly it’s about believing in yourself every step of the way.”

She said even after getting accepted at a top school, despite her disadvantaged background, she still had doubts she could succeed, until she began seeing that she was performing just as well as others.

Ms. Obama and her family started

the second leg of the Africa visit in Gaborone, Botswana. They were welcomed with a performance of traditional African dances performed a group of children ages 6 to 18. The children wore traditional costumes of hide and sang to the family in greeting. They were also greeted by a group of children waving the American flag and the blue and black flag of Botswana.

While in Gaborone, the First Family joined in to help paint a mural on the wall of a new clinic under construction that treats children living with HIV/Aids. see First Lady in Southern Africa on page 41

First Family arrives in Botswana Black Business News International Edition -39- Spring 2011

U.S. First Lady Michelle Obama with young women in Johannesburg, South Africa.

BELOW: Family portrait with Nelson Mandela. BBC Photos

Black Business News International Edition -40- Spring 2011

First Lady in Southern Africa from page 39

The disease is a major public health challenge in Botswana, a country of 2-million people, including about 300 ,000 people living with HIV/Aids.

The first lady is promoting health and wellness on her visit, with a special emphasis on HIV-prevention.

The first lady then headed to lunch with women leaders from different generations. She met with President Ian Khama before taking the family to dinner at a nature park.

It was an African safari for Michelle Obama and her family. The first lady, joined by daughters Malia, 12, and Sasha, 10, along with her mother, Marian Robinson, and a niece and nephew, climbed into an open-air Toyota Land Cruiser in search of lions, giraffes, elephants and other animals on the sprawling Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa.

The group were spending the night at a lodge on the reserve. allAfrica.com AP Photos Pool Photos Huffington Post White House Photos

ABOVE: U.S. First Lady Michelle Obama and daughter Malia listen to their guide during a safari in Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa.

BELOW: Family enjoys a game drive.

U.S. First Lady Michelle Obama With Botswana’s President Lt. Gen. Seretse Khama Ian Khama on Friday

Black Business News International Edition -41- Spring 2011

Marketing Africa-Virtually www.businessglobal.com BusinessGlobal.com is a company specialising in interactive virtual trade shows and online events.

ExpoPark™ is BusinessGlobal.com’s own feature-rich virtual trade show platform that gives you immediate access from your computer to thousands of potential business partners worldwide, including clients, partners, distributors, manufacturers and suppliers.

BusinessGlobal.com’s virtual trade shows and online events connect your business with potential customers and partners around the globe. Attending events at our ExpoPark™ virtual trade show platform will make things simpler for your business. It is a proven fact that our virtual events can make your business global.

With no need to travel, to print promotional material, or dispose of or recycle a physical display, BusinessGlobal.com ExpoPark™ virtual trade exhibition platform minimises your carbon footprint - our virtual events are the environmentally friendly choice.

Europe, Middle East & Africa Franchise Show ORGANIZER: IMC Exhibitions Group EXHIBITION: EMEA Franchise Group START DATE: 18 February 2011 DURATION: 6 Weeks

& urism o T , l e rav n 2011 obal T The Gl lity Exhibitio l a sGloba Hospit usines

:B Tourism NIZER ORGA Travel, l a b lo 2011 The G ITION: lity Exhibition EXHIB a it 2011 & Hosp : 1 July E T A D START Month ION: 1 DURAT

Africa Import & Export Fair ORGANIZER: AM Exhibiz & Promotions Pvt Ltd EXHIBITION: Africa Import & Export Fair START DATE: 24 August 2011 DURATION: 3 Months

Black Business News International Edition -42- Spring 2011

Albertina Sisulu, Anti-apartheid Warrior 1918-2011

A

lbertina Sisulu, who died on June 2 aged 92, was a veteran of the anti-apartheid movement and lived to see three of her five children become leading figures in a democratic South Africa.

Her husband, Walter Sisulu, who died in 2003, spent 25 years in custody on Robben Island alongside Nelson Mandela, whom he had recruited into the African National Congress (ANC), now South Africa’s governing party.

Mandela was the best man when Walter Sisulu married Albertina Nontsikelelo in 1944.

While her husband was on Robben Island, Albertina Sisulu brought up the couple’s five children single-handedly.

She spent months in jail herself and had her movements restricted.

As a campaigner against apartheid and for the rights of women and children, she became a leader of the United Democratic Front (UDF), a prominent anti-apartheid coalition in the 1980s that brought together religious, labour and community development groups.

For four years Albertina Sisulu also served in Parliament, winning a seat after the first multiracial elections in 1994.

Her daughter, Lindiwe Sisulu, is now t h e South African D e fence Minister. Her s o n , M a x Sisulu, is Speaker of the National A s sem-

bly. Another daughter, Beryl Sisulu, is South Africa’s Ambassador to Norway.

Max Sisulu’s wife, the writer Elinor Sisulu, described how, at Walter Sisulu’s 90th birthday celebration shortly before his death, he and Albertina listened to tributes by Nelson Mandela and others with “rapt attention, holding hands under the table like teenagers”.

Albertina Sisulu was born Albertina Nontsikelelo on October 21 1918 at Tsomo in the Transkei, and trained as a nurse at a hospital in Johannesburg.

She joined the women’s league of the African National Congress in 1948.

In 1954 she joined the Federation of South African Women, and was present at many of the landmark moments of the anti-apartheid movement.

These included the launch in 1955 of the Freedom Charter, which proclaims: “South Africa belongs to all who live in it, black and white.” In 1956 she was one of the leaders of a march on Pretoria by 2,000 women, black and white, opposing the extension to women of pass laws, which restricted the movement of black South Africans. The marchers’ feminist slogan of resistance was: “You strike a woman, you strike a rock.”

Between 1964 and 1982 she was the subject of several banning orders, and for a time was detained under house arrest. In 1983 she was elected president for the UDF’s Transvaal region, and the following year was sentenced to four years’ imprisonment for furthering the aims of the ANC. Having been elected to the national council of the UDF’s women’s congress in 1987, two years later she led a UDF delegation to the United States and Britain, holding talks with President George Bush and Margaret Thatcher.

With Gertrude Shope, she was appointed co-convener of the ANC women’s league task force in 1990, and the following year became the ANC’s deputy president.

She also witnessed some of the struggle’s darkest days. In 1997 she was called before the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, established to help South Africans confront their brutal history.

Albertina Sisulu’s five children survive her. 

Black Business News International Edition -43- Spring 2011

www.telegraph.co.uk/news/obituaries/8562219/Albertina-Sisulu.html

REUTERS/Goran Tomasevic

South Sudan: the World’s Newest Nation

T

h o u s a n d s of South Sudanese danced through the night to mark the first hours of their independence on Saturday, July 9, 2011. After 55 years of struggle, South Sudan has become an independent state.

The South is now free from what they see as the “oppressive” North.

Africa, on the other hand, is preparing to receive the 56th state. But how will life be like in an independent South Sudan?

Despite separation, the North will

still remain the South’s most important neighbour.

The bitter rivalry that has characterized the relations between the two will have to be put aside for the sake of cordial bilateral relations.

Yet, there is anxiety about the unresolved post-referendum issues which include, Abyei, citizenship, oil wealth and infrastructure, the North/South border, currency and external debt. Africa through the continental body, African Union (AU), has been trying to ensure that the secession is smooth and that there will be no call to arms. However, the emerging economy in the region provides a wide range of opportunities for investment and trade. In particular, Kenya, that Manyang Juuk played a key role on the Sudanese peace

“The liberation itself is a very vast terminology; there is liberation from the domination of the people who had ruled the Sudan since independence.

Then we are moving now to a different level of liberation - that is to liberate our people from backwardness, from ignorance, from illiteracy, from poverty, from diseases and all these need an effective government,” Jonglei state governor Kuol

process, is looking up to the South as a new market for its manufactured goods and a source of employment for her citizens.

The sectors open for foreign investment include, mining, quarrying, energy and electricity, petroleum and gas industry, transport and ICT, tourism and hotel industry development, security services, freight and logistics and risk analysts.

While the oil resource in South Sudan has been given undue attention by the rest of the world, the new republic has even bigger potential in mining and agriculture. With about 80 percent of its land being arable, South Sudan is capable of ensuring food security in the entire Eastern African region that comprises 12 countries.

Although South Sudan is currently a net importer of agricultural products, the region has an outstanding natural resource base for the production of a wide range of crops, timber and other forest products, fisheries and livestock.

Key constraints that face the development of the agricultural sector include inadequate financial services, low use of improved technologies, poor

Black Business News International Edition -45- Spring 2011

see New Nation on page 46

Rehearsing the National Anthem REUTERS/Goran Tomasevic

New Nation from page 45

rural infrastructure that hampers access to markets, weak or no agricultural and livestock research and extension services, and shortage of skilled labour.

Thus, the following sectors have the potential for domestic and international investors: rain-fed mechanized schemes for grains and cash crop production, irrigated sugarcane farms, fruit and vegetable production and processing, Gum Arabic, timber and wood production and processing, dairy and poultry farming, veterinary services and pharmacies, fish production, agrochemicals and machineries.

The new independent South has expressed willingness to join the

“They (South Sudanese) did not learn to take initiative. They just copy. Some classes in business for adults would do wonders for them.�

AllAfrica.com

“We need mobile phones”, he says pointing to a mast without an antennae. “To go somewhere on the off chance of finding a good deal is a waste of time. Telephones can help to decide where to find the best deals,” explains the young man.

AllAfrica.com East African Community (EAC) trade block, given that 90 percent of her trade is with the East African region.

South Sudan provides a ready market to consumer products and services.

Still, infrastructure and markets need to be developed and equitable access to essential services must be put in place.

For instance there is only one telecom company based in South Sudan.

People need health services and yet there is only one main hospital. Education, especially primary, vocational and other tertiary institutions need to be developed.

However, the biggest challenge for the new republic will be assuring foreign investors of the security of their investment and human life. Being a region emerging from two decades of war, there are still too many weapons in the wrong hands, a development that has the potential of scaring away would-be investors. President Salva Kiir has a huge task ahead of him. For one, he has to assure the North that an independent South Sudan will not be a hostile neigbour. He also has to disarm the militias that still possess arms contrary to the peace agreement.

But the most important thing for an independent South is how it is likely to deal with her other neigbours, Kenya, Uganda and Ethiopia. Kenya is upbeat that an independent South Sudan will expand the markets for her goods and services. Indeed, part of Kenya’s Vision 2030 economic blueprint is pegged on the emerging market in South Sudan.

Uganda on the other hand is seeking a stable buffer zone on its northern border to ensure that the rebel Lord’s

Resistance Army (LRA) does not return into active ins u r g e n c y.

Ugandan trade with South Sudan has tripled in recent years, with South Sudan being t h e large s t importer of U g a n d a n goods.

Ethiopia, on the other hand, is both optimistic and lukewarm towards South Sudan’s independence.

While Ethiopia has embraced South Sudan with many of her nationals doing business in Juba, especially in the hospitality and transport industry, the Addis Government is a bit jittery that an independent South Sudan will give ideas to separatist movements in the south (Oromo Liberation Front) and east (Ogaden). 

allAfrica.com msnbc.com reuters photos nationalpost.com

www.youtube.com/watch?v= sNinFWXAM1E&feature=play er_embedded

Although a school has been built in Lankien, South Sudan there are no tables and chairs to furnish it. The teachers haven’t been formally trained and only gained employed because they went to school, mainly in refugee camps in countries in the region. They teach in English, the new official language of South Sudan. Hardly anyone else has a good command of English in Lankien, where people speak Nuer, the language of their tribe with the same name. allAfrica.com

Black Business News International Edition -47- Spring 2011

Top 25 Global Cities of 2011

T

he dominance of Western cities is being challenged by up-andcoming centers in Brazil, Russia, India and China, according to a new study.

The Knight Frank Global Cities Survey (www.knightfrank.com/ wealthreport/2011/global-cities-survey), published by Citi Private Bank, monitors “city-level power shifts” by assessing global markets for investment opportunities and influence on business leaders worldwide.

This year’s survey, the fourth, shows major movement in the study’s “Economic Activity” category, with 14 cities slipping down the rankings and 16 rising up.

Author Liam Bailey writes: “The ongoing West-to-East shift in economic might is highlighted by the fact that eight of the 13 jumps in this area were

by Asian cities, led by Shanghai and Kuala Lumpur. But the West is not without its successes. Munich’s rise in this category points to the new confidence in Germany – its star has been rising strongly during the Euro crisis.”

In the “Political Power” category, North America dominates, with San Francisco and Toronto leading the charge (but a strong showing from Singapore nonetheless). Meanwhile, ”Quality of Life” boosts in Sydney, Zurich and even London demonstrate positive infrastructure investment.

But most interesting is the survey’s “Knowledge and Influence” ranking, with significant volatility. Bailey writes that it may be “an indication of the level of competition between cities that are seeking to exert power through investment in knowledge industries,” including Boston, Munich, Milan, Mumbai and Rio de Janeiro. (New York and London remain tops, however.)

Here’s the list of the top 25 global cities, according to the Citi index: 1.New York 2.London 3.Paris 4.Tokyo

5.Brussels 6.Los Angeles 7.Singapore 8.Beijing 9.Toronto 10.Berlin 11.Chicago 12.Washington, D.C. 13.Seoul 14.Frankfurt 15.Sydney 16.San Francisco 17.Hong Kong 18.Shanghai 19.Mexico City 20.Bangkok 21.Moscow 22.Zurich 23.Munich 24.Taipei 25.Sao Paulo The remaining city rankings include, in descending order: Buenos Aires, Istanbul, Milan, Boston, Miami, Cairo, Dubai, Kuala Lumpur, Tel Aviv, Bogota, Rio de Janeiro, New Delhi, Mumbai, Jakarta and Johannesburg.

The survey also offered Top 10 breakouts in other categories.

Economic Activity 1.New York 2.London 3.Tokyo

4.Paris 5.Shanghai 6.Singapore 7.Hong Kong 8.Seoul 9.Beijing 10.Los Angeles How it’s measured: output, income per head, financial and capital market activity, market share, number of international corporate headquarters.

Political Power 1.Washington, D.C. 2.New York 3.Brussels 4.Beijing 5.London 6.Paris 7.Tokyo 8.Cairo 9.Istanbul 10.Mexico City How it’s measured: number of NGO and political organization headquar-

Black Business News International Edition -48- Spring 2011

ters, embassies and think tanks.

Quality of Life 1.Paris 2.Berlin 3.Toronto 4.Frankfurt 5.London 6.Zurich 7.Tokyo 8.Munich 9.New York 10.Los Angeles How it’s measured: assessing personal and political freedom, censorship, personal security, crime, political stability, health facilities, public services and transport, culture and liesure, climate, quality of environment.

Knowledge and Influence 1.New York 2.London 3.Tokyo 4.Paris 5.Hong Kong 6.Chicago 7.Los Angeles 8.Singapore 9.Sydney 10.Washington D.C. How it’s measured: number and ranking of educational facilities, number of news media organizations, international market share of media.

The top 10 list of “hot,” up-andcoming locations: Maputo, Mozambique Macau, China Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Baku, Azerbaijan Istanbul, Turkey Taipei, Taiwan Suzhou, China Ulan Bator, Mongolia Astana, Kazakhstan Doha, Qatar Additional top 20 global cities of 2020 predictions are: Top 10 cities for entrepreneurs Top 10 cities for hedonists Top 10 cities for romantics

Mamputo, Mozambique Bailey sums up Knight Frank’s findings thusly: “Tried-and-tested markets with security of infrastructure and political and legal stability will outperform in the longterm. No market is immune from a crisis, but these tend to have a depth of demand that creates a true liquid investment.”  www.smartplanet.com www.knightfrank.com/wealthreport/2011/globalcities-survey

Black Business News International Edition -49- Spring 2011

China to Launch Lunar Rover, Mine Moon for Nuclear Fuel

Image: slide from Chinese lunar exploration program presentation / IEEE Spectrum

A

top Chinese official has confirmed that the world’s most populous nation plans to send robots to the moon.

Ziyuan Ouyang, chief scientist of the Chinese lunar exploration program, made the announcement at the IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA), held in Shanghai. The missions, scheduled for launch in 2013 and 2017, will serve as a tune up for a more challenging goal: putting a man on the moon by 2025.

“But why?” you ask. Well, beyond obvious bragging rights, the China National Space Administration’s ambitious foray into lunar exploration is part of a grander scheme to exploit the moon’s vast iron reserves and its abundance of Helium-3, a rare but heavily sought-after fuel for nuclear fusion plants.

This elaborate operation to mine the moon for these coveted natural resources was set in motion back in 2007 when the agency launched into space its first lunar orbiter Chang’e-1 (named after the moon goddess of Chinese folklore) to scan the landscape and pro-

duce a detailed 3-D map of the moon’s surface. This was followed in 2010 by the successful launch of another probe, Chang’e-2, which was equipped with a higher-resolution camera and orbited at an even closer distance of 100 kilometers. The data is being used to pinpoint an ideal landing spot for a rover.

Ouyang says it’s been decided that Chang’e-3’s spacecraft, which includes an unmanned lunar lander and autonomous lunar rover, will be sent to explore the Sinus Iridium region.

Equipped with a solar-powered battery, sensors, cameras, x-ray and infrared spectrometers, as well as a radar, the robots will navigate and explore the terrain. The rover will be the first to launch, while the lander will be sent later to drill, conduct experiments and collect samples.

But if past interplanetary unmanned missions are any indication, China’s engineers have their work cut out for them. IEEE Spectrum, which hosted the event, explains in detail the kinds of challenges the researchers are facing:

One of the (many) tricky parts of operating on the moon is designing a rover that can stay alive during the lunar night, which is a half-month long, making solar power an impracticality.

To help keep itself alive, the Chinese rover will have a supplementary nuclear battery powered by plutonium 238, which will give the rover a lifespan of 30 years, although its mission life will be only three months. This is the same type of radioisotope thermoelectric generator system (RTG) being used on the Mars Science Laboratory rover, Curiosity.

And when it comes to colonizing the moon, other nations have their own ideas, too. Japan hopes to have a moon base by 2030. India is thinking the same thing. Russia and the European Space Agency are targeting an earlier date: 2025.

In the U.S., however, the timeline for a return to the moon is up in the air now that NASA’s Constellation Program has since been canceled due to budget constraints. 

UN: Renewable Energies can Meet World’s Power Needs

development.

• Some renewable power technologies can stand on their own today.

• Renewable energy solutions are not the only solution to reduce carbon emissions.

T

he United Nations has found that renewable energy alone can meet global power needs - countering the burgeoning belief that nuclear power is the only viable solution.

Recently, the United Nation’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released its Special Report on Renewable Energy Sources and Climate Change Mitigation (SRREN). The report painted a rosy future for renewable energy technologies.

IPCC’s working group of 120 researchers determined that nearly 80 percent of electricity could be generated through renewable sources by mid-century, eliminating between 220 to 560 Gigatonnes of carbon dioxide pollution by 2050.

This shift would hold the world’s temperature down two degrees Celsius, which meets the goal of the UN’s Cancun Agreements. The energy mix studied by IPCC includes forms of bioenergy, geothermal energy, hydropower, solar, and wind.

“With consistent climate and energy policy support, renewable energy sources can contribute substantially to human well-being by sustainably supplying energy and stabilizing the climate,” said professor Ottmar Edenhofer, the group’s current co-chair.

The report acknowledged political disagreement among developed economies vis-à-vis developing economies, and seeks to help policy makers understand that there are solutions for a collective way forward.

“What is unique about this assessment is that the IPCC allows us to draw on and bring together a broad spectrum of experts on each of the technologies reviewed in collaboration with scientists studying energy systems as a whole. It represents a systemic, broad, impartial and state of knowledge report on the present and future potential of a low carbon, more resource efficient energy path,” Edenhofer said.

Other key findings were: • The energy potential of renewable technologies exceeds current global demand.

• Renewable energy capacity grew in 2009 across also categories in spite of the global economic downturn.

• Developing nations account for over 50 percent of the world’s current renewable energy capacity.

• Most reviewed scenarios showed that renewables would exceed the low carbon energy provided by nuclear power or fossil fuel power plants equipped with carbon capture technologies.

• There is no “one size fits all” policy for encouraging renewable power

The IPCC working group also offered projection for different forms of renewable energy. See here There’s also a brief video overview of the findings.

“What is unique about this assessment is that the IPCC allows us to draw on and bring together a broad spectrum of experts on each of the technologies reviewed in collaboration with scientists studying energy systems as a whole. It represents a systemic, broad, impartial and state of knowledge report on the present and future potential of a low carbon, more resource efficient energy path,” Edenhofer said.

The report stands in contrast to recent comments made by public figures such as Microsoft CEO Bill Gates who endorsed nuclear power at a conference in New York last week. Gates dismissed renewable technologies as “cute,” but unable to meet energy demands.

Gates noted that there is a lot of room for innovation in nuclear reactor designs. “The room to do things differently is quite dramatic,” he said. Gates is not a disinterested party: He has invested in nuclear power company TerraPower. 

Black Business News International Edition -51- Spring 2011

China Begins to Look Away From Africa, Maybe

J

asmine blossoms’ fall from grace in the Chinese flower industry is not the only blow Chinese businesses have suffered as a result of the North African and Middle Eastern democratic uprisings this spring. China is evaluating the impact of the Jasmine revolution on its overseas investment and outward business expansion strategy.

Africa - once considered the lab for Chinese companies’ reach outside - is being relegated into a destination with too many risk factors. Safer political destinations and countries closer to home are likely to benefit from the shift.

The readjustment has been in the works for some time but the uprisings in Tunisia, Egypt and Libya have made those subtle shifts more pronounced.

“North Africa’s unrest and Libya’s situation in particular are testing China’s ‘go out’ strategy,” says Wang Jinyan, research fellow at the Beijing Foreign Studies University. “This will have a definite impact on the future direction of our overseas investment.”

According to press reports, China’s Ministry of Commerce new five-year plan, which is being finalised at the moment, makes Asia and the new emerging economies the centrepiece of the country’s “go out” investment strategy.

“The political risk aside, investment in Africa is no longer what it used to be,” the Economic Observer quoted an unnamed official from the ministry in May. “Opening a mine there is not so easy any more, now you need to take into account the environment, local employment and benefits to local economy.”

By contrast, Asia is perceived as a mature market full of economic potential and fewer political risks.

Determining the direction of China’s future investment remains a full-time

occupation of ana- Left, a textile factory. Above, a bridge construction site in lysts the world Angola. In exchange for access to Africa’s resources, China over. Flush with is investing in infrastructure projects on the continent (file cash from years of photo).

IRIN exports-driven economic expansion and sitting on top of the world’s larg- Not surprisingly, this has been met with est foreign exchange reserves, China criticisms by some that China is acting has been on a shopping spree of late as a neo- coloniser, stripping Africa of for commodities, oil, energy and agri- its rich resources.

But the Arab spring has cast doubts cultural land.

A study released in May by the Asia over this relentless expansion. The figSociety in New York forecast that by ures of China’s economic losses suf2020 China’s overseas direct invest- fered during the civilian unrest in North ment could reach 2 trillion dollars. Last Africa and Libyan conflict are beginyear the United States’ foreign invest- ning to emerge, giving officials cause to pause. ment amounted to 300 billion dollars.

In Libya where China’s involvement The financial crisis of 2008 has provided Chinese companies with impetus is quite recent, the losses suffered and and opportunities to channel some of the cost of repatriating some 36,000 their money into most remote corners Chinese employees is set to surpass of the world, snapping minerals, secur- 3 billion dollars. Since 2007 Libya had ing oil fields and acquiring stakes in contracted some 50 engineering projects to Chinese companies, including major companies.

But before spreading their wings several image projects to mark the 40th further afield many companies, in- anniversary of the 1969 revolution.

Although China’s role as a contractor cluding major state oil firms like Petro China, have used Africa as their testing has limited its exposure to direct losses ground. Entering as contractors to build in the unrest, some Chinese assets like railways, roads and telecommunica- Sinopec refineries in Libya were raided tions, Chinese companies now boast a and destroyed. Experts say that on the sizeable presence on the continent. By whole Beijing has been left to deal with the end of 2010, some 2,000 Chinese a messy aftermath of compensation companies operated in Africa with an claims, third party debts and the re-emaccumulated investment of 32 billion ployment of all returned workers.

And Libya’s fallout is only one piece dollars.

Last year China became Africa’s larg- in the big picture of Arab revolutions est trading partner, and its march into that have derailed Chinese business the continent seemed unstoppable. see China Looks Away on page 55

Black Business News International Edition -52- Spring 2011

The Tiger and the Dragon in a Hot Race to Woo Africa, New Delhi Offers $5 Billion

E

ast African nations have become the latest beneficiaries of the battle heating up between India and China for control of Africa’s economic landscape.

The region raked in a huge chunk of the $5 billion from New Delhi last week as a loans package to finance key infrastructure projects.

While India has lagged behind its Asian rival China in bagging deals and projects in Africa, the funding deal announced in Addis Ababa has awakened many observers to the fact that the former is harbouring a grand agenda for the continent.

Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh who announced the funding was on a six-day trip to Africa, attending the India-Africa summit in Addis Ababa Ethiopia as he sought to deepen economic ties with African nations.

With the support of their government, Indian firms are increasingly making more and strategic entries into East Africa and the Continent in general, targeting the expected windfall in telecoms, mineral extraction, engineering and consumer goods markets, a field Chinese firms have previously dominated.

“Its clear India like China has realised Africa is the next frontier for their growth. What we are seeing is a competition for new markets and resources between the two, “ said Kuria Muchiru, Senior Partner and Country Leader for Kenya at audit firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC).

“There is a lot of investor interest in Africa by Indian firms, “ said Mr Muchiru.

Trade figures have been telling of the strengthening ties between India and Africa, a co-operation 16 African Heads of State agreed to support in the com-

ing years, as they turned to South-to South relations to grow their economies.

Statistics show total bilateral trade between India and African countries stood at $46 billion in 2010, up from the $3 billion Indian Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, left, was in 2000 and it is es- briefed about a super computer at the India-Tanzanian timated to clock $70 Centre in Information and Communication Technology, in billion by 2015.

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania PIB Comparatively China’s bilateral trade with Africa stood at about $200 lonialism, apartheid, poverty, disease, illiteracy and hunger. But African states billion back in 2009.

The new funding will be disbursed do not only expect from India, but we as credit to countries, in addition to believe we are able to give back. India the $5.4 billion that India offered Africa is able to count on the support of Afat the first India-Africa summit in New rica,” said Singh.

Leading Indian technology compaDelhi in 2008, said Singh. nies including Bharti Airtel, Mahindra Among the key projects to have reSatyam, Infosys and Tata are among ceived a boost is the proposed Ethiothe fi rms ramping up efforts in Africa to pia-Djibouti railway to be contracted increase their presence in the region. at a cost of $300 million. The African Bharti has presence in 15 African counUnion mission in Somalia would also tries, after it acquired the African assets benefit from the financing with a pledge of Kuwait’s Zain mid last year at nearly of $2 million while African airlines will $10 billion.

This has delivered rivalry to get increased access to Indian cities in the doorsteps of European mobile telewhat Singh said was a unique partnerphone giants, Vodafone and Orange ship between the two regions. Singh which have previously dominated the said India would offer an additional market. $700 million for new institutions and African countries have also been training programmes. reaching out to Indian investors as India is not hiding its intentions. “The they seek to boost their economies. people of Africa and India stand at In October last year, Rwanda sent a the threshold of a historic opportunity.

25-member business delegation to InThere is a new economic growth story dia scouting for partners and investors emerging from Africa. Africa possesses to give a boost to the soft and physical all the prerequisites to become a major infrastructure sectors back home. growth pole of the world,” Singh told African Union leaders in Ethiopia.

Rwanda’s interest “The India-Africa partnership is Several Indian firms have shown inunique and owes its origins to history and our common struggle against co-

Black Business News International Edition -53- Spring 2011

see Tiger/Dragon Woo Africa on page 55

China Looks Away

Tiger/Dragon from page 52

Woo Africa from page 53

interests.

At a working conference in Shanghai in May, Sinosure, China’s official export credit insurance agency, revealed that in the first three months of 2011 its reported loss claims from North Africa and the Middle East have risen by 167 percent over the same period of last year.

According to figures from the Ministry of Commerce, new Chinese contracts in North African countries in the first quarter have dropped dramatically, by 70.8 percent in Algeria and by 46.9 percent in Libya over the same period of last year.

The civil unrest and safety concerns have made the Chinese even more invisible in Africa, adding fuel to accusations that Chinese contractors are isolating themselves from the local population behind high walls, and remain aloof to local grievances.

But even as Beijing takes a closer look at its investments in Africa, China’s involvement there is far from over.

“You may not see the Chinese but you can see the stadiums and the roads and everything they have built,” says Lawrence Brahm, a Beijing-based political columnist. “The jury on their role in Africa’s development is out. I still think that the great game between China and the West will be played out in Africa.”  www.allAfrica.com

terest in investing in Kigali promising to start big projects worth millions of dollars in information technology, mining, agro-processing, education, pharmaceuticals and energy. Rwanda Development Board (RDB), a government agency created to facilitate investments says at least 26 Indian companies--including Essar Group, Tata Group and Karox Company--had shown interest towards the end of last year.

“The whole world is looking at India, China and Brazil. Even American investors want to go to India,” RDB chief executive John Gara said.In November, Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping visited South Africa, Angola and Botswana signing deals worth millions of dollars to build a power plant, solar panel factory and to increase South African exports to China.

Chinese state-owned firms led by China National Offshore Company (CNOOC) have of late been major players in the oil exploration business in EAC region. In Kenya for example two Indian-based companies -- Gleen Investment and Sanghi Cement-- were given a green light to construct cement plants in Ortum and Sebit area in Pokot respectively. Sanghi cement of India which manages one of the world’s largest single stream cement plants-producing over 20 million tonnes annually--is to invest over $80 million in its cement plant in Kenya, giving it a footprint it plans to use to supply the region market such as in South Sudan.

Gleen Investment, a unit of conglomerate Mehta Group plans to put up a 1.2 million-metric tonne cement plant in West Pokot, to cost about $200 million in a programme that will be scaled up depending on the available limestone deposits. Indian Reliance Group associated with the Ambani brothers together with Bharti Airtel and the Tata Group had bid for a 51 per cent stake in monopoly Telkom Kenya but lost out to France Telecom’s Orange. Indian second largest mobile phone service provider Essar Group has already made one foray in Africa with the launch of the Yu brand in Kenya in 2008. Essar Energy which owns a 50 per cent stake in Kenya’s oil refinery in Mombasa, having invested $600 million is said to be looking for opportunities in Uganda following recent discovery of oil reserves in the Lake Albertine rift basin.

India - Tanzania Indian companies and businesses in Tanzania are valued at about US$1.3 billion, creating about 32,000 jobs through direct investments and joint venture projects. In total, the India-Tanzania bilateral trade stood at US$1.1 billion up to the end of 2010.

Early this year, Tanzanian Industry, Trade and Marketing minister Cyril Chami said at least seven Indian companies are expected to build factories at a cost of $250 million and create over 6,000 jobs.

Mr Singh held discussions with President Kikwete on various protocols aimed at strengthening India-Tanzania co-operation in various economic and social sector projects. Last year, Tanzania’s exports value to India stood at $132.5 million while imports hit $596.7 million. www.allAfrica.com

JULY 18, 2011 Black Business News International Edition -55- Spring 2011

International Trade Calendar Apps World

June 1-2, 2011 www.apps-world.net/africa

Cape Town Convention Center

I

n Africa, the potential for Apps go far beyond games, entertainment and publishing. With a total population of just over one billion, infrastructure is lacking throughout the continent especially in the areas of health, agriculture, banking, education and more.  Apps are being touted as one of the solutions.

T h e potential of apps to change the landscape of Africa is boundless.

Increased literacy, widespread access to healthcare, farming and agricultural aids and more is being facilitated by mobile apps.

H u r d l e s do exist in development of the nascent industry – particularly challenges within billing infrastructure n e e d e d to monetise this market. 

However, the implementation of mobile money is providing a solution that is becoming an integral to the business of mobile apps in Africa.

Apps World Africa 2011 will explore the potential of applications to assist in the development of the globe’s second largest continent.

Bringing together the telcos, handset manufacturers, government ministries and organisations, marketing houses and more, this event will thoroughly explore whether APPs are the answer for Africa, and allow all the stakeholders to build pertinent partnerships in the industry.

Topics covered at the show include: • Operator case studies – models and business models of app related own labels, and app store partnerships and liaisons • Handsets – which has the most compelling offering in this market • Developers in the region – challenges and success stories • Mobile money - rise of mobile money apps and how these interact with the banking sector • Apps for public services and health – is this really the answer for Africa?

• m-Commerce for agriculture – mobilising the farming community through apps • m-Education – increasing literacy through apps• Apps for marketing & brand building - experiences of leading African brands with app related campaigns  •

Export.gov

Trade Mission to

South Africa

9/19-23/2011

T

he United States Department of Commerce, International Trade Administration, U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service (CS) is organizing a Trade Mission to South Africa, September 19-23, 2011 (www.export. gov/eac/show_detail_trade_events. asp?EventID=31747&InputType=EV ENT). Led by a senior Department of Commerce official, the mission is intended to include representatives from a variety of U.S. industry suppliers and service providers with targeted industries being energy equipment and technologies, agricultural equipment, and educational services and skills development.

South Africa is a country of 50 million people, rich in culture, people and natural heritage. With remarkable macroeconomic stability and a pro-business environment, South Africa is a logical and attractive choice for U.S. companies to enter Sub-Saharan Africa. Growth of South Africa’s consumer base also provides ample opportunity for U.S. exporters. With stops in Johannesburg and Cape Town, this trade mission will introduce U.S. companies to potential buyers and allow them to explore new business opportunities in the dynamic South African market. The mission will include one-on-one business appointments, briefings and evening receptions.

The cost for a SME (fewer than 500 employees) is $2,125.00. The cost for a large company is $2,565.00. Each additional representative is $450.00.

Pre-Register for this mission at: https:// emenuapps.ita.doc.gov/ePublic/newRegistration.jsp?SmartCode=1R1G

Black Business News International Edition -56- Spring 2011

see Trade Calendar on page 57

Trade Calendar from page 56

Contacts for this mission: Larry Farris, Johannesburg Senior Commercial Officer Phone: 27 11 290 3316 Larry.Farris@trade.gov Teresa Yung, Trade Event Programs International Trade Specialist Phone: 202-482-5496 Teresa.Yung@trade.gov. 

Nigeria Infrastructure www.cwcnif.com Eko Expo Centre on Victoria Island November 1-2, 2011 Developed by the industry, for the industry, this strategic business conference will bring together the

thought-leaders in Nigeria to find solutions, raise awareness and create the right framework for the development of a much needed infrastructure, construction of rail and road transport, waterways and intensification of efforts for increased and reliable power supply.

Key Topics Include: •Power & Its Central Role in Industrial Diversification •Delivering Affordable & Power – Strategies & Implementation •Engaging the Private Sector in Real Projects with Real Security on Returns •Ports & Transport Maturity – Investing in Getting Nigeria Moving

•New Infrastructure Development – Mega Projects & Inner-City Transport •Construction, Steel & Cement – Developing Successful Clusters in Nigeria •Case Studies Highlighting Tried, Tested & Successful Projects For The Private Sector •State Led Investment Strategies, Partnerships & Opportunities Benefits of Attending: •Hear first hand about how the Governor’s will spearhead and support your company’s growth •Learn how the new local content regulation will affect your business •Maximise your business opportunities by meeting in one place everyone who matters to your business •Find out how you can deliver a real IPP project and maintain a customer base •Meet face-to-face with the key decision makers •Forge long-term business relationships and new partnerships •Be first in line for fast paced government decisions and contracts to mobile Nigeria’s power sector. 

ASSIST THE PEOPLE OF SOUTH SUDAN Sudan Sunrise Help Build Schools in the South Sundan www.sudansunrise.org

S

outh Sudan is the most underdeveloped region of the world today. 85% of the population in South Sudan is illiterate. Only about 7% of teachers in the south have any professional training, and it is not uncommon to visit a school where the teachers themselves have not been educated beyond fourth grade. Some 1.5 million children who should be in school are not, due to lack of schools. The majority of schools that do exist consist of a chalkboard under a tree. Read about the camapign and contribute to the program to build over 41 schools at www.sudansunrise.org.

Southern Sudan Literacy Project (SSLP) Build a Primary School • www.thehopealliance.org/?q=node/77

T

he Southern Sudan Literacy Project (SSLP) is designed to build a Primary school in Dongchak Payam, Duk County, Southern Sudan. Solomon Awan, who was one of the “Lost Boys from Sudan,” now lives in Salt Lake City, Utah.

He desires to help the village he is from, Duk Padiet. Villagers are just now returning after so many years of war and genocide. During the Spring of 2008, Solomon traveled back to his home village where he was reunited with his mother and sister. He met with the village community and agreed that the education of their children is the most critical need. We hope to finish building the school before the 2011 rainy season. To further this goal, SSLP has partnered with Hope Alliance, allowing our donors the benefit of a tax deduction. Please help SSLP accomplish this worthwhile project: send donations to The Hope Alliance (www.thehopealliance.org) For further information please contact: solomonawan@ yahoo.com. 

Black Business News International Edition -57- Spring 2011

Books to Consider...

Alex: My Life From Sudanese Refugee to International Supermodel

by Alex Wek

many of whom fled to London.

Alek was the first black model who didn’t conform to a Caucasian aesthetic, the first with an uncompromising, sub-Saharan beauty. She belongs to the Dinka tribe and grew up in a small town called Wau in the south of the Sudan, the seventh of nine children.

Supermodel Alek Wek has a sweet style and unique look that has propelled her into one of the most successful models of color. Wek owns the runway with her long legs and piercing gaze.

And like the true Aries she is, Wek has also transitioned into the role of designer with her collection of handbags, Wek 1933 (her father’s birth year).

She has campaigned for aid agencies such as Unicef and founded a notfor-profit organisation educating underprivileged children. Modelling gave her the profile to do this.

“So I’ve been lucky. I’ve made good friends, because there are some designers, stylists and editors who realise fashion isn’t that important.

“Now I model in moderation, which is much better. “I say to the girls, ‘Nothing

should change your soul’.

Wek has written her incredible, daring story of rising from refugee to international supermodel. www.amazon.com www.borders.com

Donate a Desk to Students in Malawi

A

lek Wek has been the face of ad campaigns for companies ranging from Coach to Michael Kors to Nars and has worked the runways on behalf of designers such as Diane von Furstenberg and Christian Dior.

Yet her defining moments extend beyond the runways of New York, Milan, Paris, and London.

Born to a middle-class family in the Sudan, Wek found her life suddenly inverted when civil war broke out among outlaw militias, the Muslim-dominated government, and southern rebels.

The conflict not only killed two million people, it created an entire community of refugees, including Wek’s family—

E

very day, millions of children throughout Africa struggle to learn while sitting on the floor or on the ground outdoors. Giving them a desk, where they can write and concentrate, is a great step towards creating an educational system that attracts, and keeps, eager young students.

Support the U.S. Fund for UNICEF (www.unicefusa.org) and MSNBC’s “The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell” in an ambitious campaign called K.I.N.D.: Kids in Need of Desks to provide 46,000 desks for 172 schools in UNICEF Malawi’s Schools for Africa network.

By making a tax-deductible dona-

tion to the U.S. Fund for UNICEF, you can pick one or more students up off the ground and help pave their way to a better education and brighter future.

A gift of: • $24 can pick one student off the floor; • $48 will buy a desk and bench for two students; • $720 will furnish an entire class of 30.

The program is a component of the UNICEF Schools for Africa campaign which aims to accelerate access to quality basic education for children, with a special focus on girls, orphans and vulnerable children. 

Black Business News International Edition -58- Spring 2011

This is an official warning from the African Union, an intergovernmental and continental organization with its headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

I

t has come to our attention that an organization calling itself the AFRICAN UNION CHAMBER OF COMMERCE is using the name AFRICAN UNION (AU) AND THE AFRICAN UNION LOGO AND WEBSITE and claiming to be part of or an institution of the African Union. The said organization has been alleged to have solicited money from the wider public in order to render certain services or to provide access to identified goods or services.

We would like to warn people worldwide that the AFRICAN UNION has no connection whatsoever with the so called African Union Chamber of Commerce. The said organization is not part of or an institution of the African Union and is not recognized by the African Union. The use of the name, logo and website of the African Union by the said organization is not authorized by the African Union and is therefore illegal. The African Union disassociates itself from any misrepresentations, statements or communication in whatever form and manner made by this organization purporting to be an agent of or part of the African Union.

The African Union will not accept any liability in respect of any representation or misrepresentation, communication, transaction, losses or damages incurred by any member of the public arising from any act of commission or omission or utterance perpetrated by the so called African Union Chamber of Commerce.

The AU as the copyright holder will take appropriate action against the said organization. 

Strategic Objectives African Union Commission Strategic Plan 2009-2012 1. Reduce conflicts to achieve continental security and stability; 2. Achieve the necessary continental security and stability as a prerequisite for Africa’s development and integration; 3. Promote sustainable economic development; 4. Promote sustainable social and human development; 5. Formulate frameworks for developing and sharing Africa’s Statistics, and Research & Development capacities; 6. Enhance continental integration; 7. Build and foster continental and global cooperation; 8. Promote good governance, democracy and human rights; 9. Strengthen the Africa-wide humanitarian response and action; 10. Promote Inter-African solidarity; 11. Promote African Cultural Renaissance and the protection of Africa’s cultural heritage; 12. Promote the active participation and contribution of all segments of the African society in Africa’s development and integration; 13. Promote the ratification and entry into force of all outstanding legal instruments adopted by the Assembly of the Union; 14. Promote gender equality; 15. Strengthen the capacity and enhance the operational efficiency and effectiveness of the African Union Commission; 16. Promote synergies, linkages and good working relations with all Africa Union Organs; 17. Promote effective cooperation and collaboration with Member States and the Regional Economic Communities; 18. Promote strategic partnerships for leveraging sustainable sources of funding and comparative advantages.

www.african-union.org

Black Business News International Edition -59- Spring 2011

Continental Africa Chamber of Commerce (CACC)

Export - Import Opportunity Seminar July 20, 2011 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Northeastern Illinois University Jacob H. Carruthers Center for Inner City Studies 700 East Oakwood Boulevard Lower Level Chicago, IL 60653 ***FREE PARKING*** The Seminar will cover: •New Regulations, •Identifying Markets, •Products, •Financing, •Payments, •Documentation, •Insurance, •Shipping and Clearing Procedures. •Plus gather Essential Information on Export-Import Opportunities in Africa.

Watch & Support the Africa Channel!

Time Warner Don’t have the Africa Channel in your area? Call Time Warner at: 1-888-8922253 and ask that the Africa Channel be broadcast to ALL regions of California.

For information on the Africa Channel visit www.theafricachannel.com or send an e-mail inquiry to info@theafricachannel.com.

DEADLINE FOR REGISTRATION: JULY 15, 2011 Registration Fee CACC Members-Free NON Members: $20 per person Make Check Payable to: Continental Africa Chamber of Commerce Mail To: CACC 28 E. Jackson Boulevard, Suite 600 Chicago, IL 60604 For information contact us: Telephone: 312-987-1892 E-mail:info@continentalacc.org Sponsored by: CACC in cooperation with: Northeastern Illinois University Cook County Bureau of Community Development U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) ACCION - Chicago • Chase Bank Illinois Black Chamber of Commerce NORBIC/Alliance for Illinois Manufacturing United African Organization (UAO)

Black Business News International Edition -61- Spring 2011

Trade Advertisers Wedgywall™ Modelar Panel and Exhibit System Rentals •Durable double-sided, seamless panels •Sets up in seconds •No visible hardware •Manufactured in the USA

McKenzie Exhibits International 14803 Vanowen St., Suite #14 Van Nuys, CA 91405 818-756-5375

The KARIDERM products for hair care, body care and facial care are made from certified organic shea butter, offering all the benefits of this African green treasure.

Rich in nutritious fatty acids and regenerating vitamins, KARIDERM’s shea butter nourishes and balances the skin, giving a superior level of protection, revitalization and hydration.

Available in Canada and Africa.

Order directly from www.kariderm.com

Aviation Maintenance Technician International Students Welcome

 West Los Angeles College 9000 S. Overland Avenue Culver City, CA 90230 USA

www.wlac.cc.ca.us

CARADORE.COM the FREE, SAFE & EASY way to buy - sell cars online in Africa www.caradore.com

The Journal of Commerce

ONLINE

Breaking News Every Business Day

www.joc.com

Kasamore International Calling Card Low Rates for International Calls & Domestic Calls No Contract • No Fees Quaranteed High Quality Sound

www.kasamore.com 1-866-507-7144 http://angola.org/newsletter/Imbondeiro.pdf Black Business News International Edition -62- Spring 2011

Online Videos Offer Businesses the Basics of Exporting A new series of 12 online videos offer exporters another tool in learning about the technical aspects of exporting and dealing with the intricacies of trade rules and paperwork.

In these videos, viewers see Trade Information Center (TIC) trade specialists, explaining how to fill out a NAFTA Certificate of Origin. The presenters in the videos all do customer-facing work for their Department of Commerce agencies and, thus, are intimately familiar with the subject matter of each video.

The 12 export training videos are available on the Web at www.census.gov/foreign-trade/aes/ exporttraining/videos. Each video runs about three or four minutes and can be viewed online or downloaded for off-line viewing.

For additional sources of export counseling, contact the Trade Information Center at 1-800-USA-TRAD(E) (1-800-872-8723); www. export.gov.

An Export Ready Product.

Available in Natural and Lime Call 323-964-1111 or send an e-mail inquiry to ask.energyplus.com

Black Business News International Edition -63- Spring 2011

Focused on ways the African Diaspora can participate and support the African Union’s Sixth Region initiative.

For participation information contact: David J. Saunders, Program Director 202-371-0588; or intern_cfa@yahoo.com Zizini Safaris provides the traveller with an unsurpassed and memorable experience of a lifetime in Tanzania.

We share with you the beauty of Tanzania; its rich natural resources, warm, friendly people, and a wealth of cultural experiences; offer the opportunity to gain an appreciation of the flora and fauna of these beautiful lands, which will evoke the need to protect and enhance these experiences for today and future generations.

Zizini Safaris, Inc. 466 Old Craigville Road Centerville, MA 02632 866-948 ZIZI (9494) info@zizinisafaris.com

www.zizinisafaris.com

Pan-African CHILDREN’S FUND

people-to-people, church-to-church initiative to contribute to a better future for the children of Africa

Pan-African Children’s Fund

A Royal Blend of all natural West African herbs & fiery spices Before you grill, before you bake,

P.O. Box 8386 Los Angeles, CA 90008

and Shake, Shake, Shake!

Buy King’s Pepper

Your Desktop Guide Through International Shipping Preparation

323-733-1048 pacf@westa.org

www.kingspepper.com 323.291.4267

Download Free Software www.ups.com

Please send your contribution to:

UPS WorldShip™

Black Business News International Edition -64- Spring 2011

Reach Thousands of Leaders in World Business and Government YOUR LINK TO THE GLOBAL AFRICAN ECONOMIC COMMUNITY (GAEC)

Black Business News International Edition

The Black Business Association, SBA 2007 Journalist of the Year, is pleased to invite you to be an integral part of our publication. Black Business News - International. The BBN-I is the oƥcial voice of the BBA through which public and private entities advertise business and investment opportunities to gain access to a highly aƫuent target market via outreach and advertising opportunities.

•Outreach to Black Businesses in the USA and around the world •Advertorial/Feature Story Advertising •ProƤles and Business Listings •ClassiƤed Ads and Bid Opportunities

Internati

onal Ed

Black B usiness News ition

Serving the Glob al African

Econom ic Comm unity

Conten ts

Fall 2008 USD$5.0 0

Corporat

e Giving: opportu nit EO ing, and ies in health, ed Y charitable more. ucation , housTourism

Our readers are BBA members, business owners, corporate buyers, investors, prime contractors, importers/exporters, trade specialists, and government oƥcials, who all turn to the Black Business News International for business development news and information to take their businesses and programs to the next level of proƤtability and success!

Don’t be left out of this door-opening publication.

ism indus : Investment in try is ac all acros tive, vit Africa’s toural s the co ntinent. and is evident

Feature Ar “Strateg ticles: ie Engage s For Construc m tisve African ent with the Diaspor a” “Diaspor a Remittan Engagement: ces & Be yond” Investm of the Re ent ProƤle : Moyo Dis public of Ug anda

trict

Professio nal Dire ctory Charita ble Inve stments

Reserve Your Ad Space Today!

Call 1-323-291-9334 • E-mail: mail@bbala.org Special Offer: 50% Discount for Regular Financial BBA Members Advertising Opportunities (1x, 2x, 3x, 4x) Full Page Color w/Feature Story Full Page Color Half Page Color w/Feature Story Half Page Color Quarter Page Color Box Ad Color

Website Advertising Opportunity (1x, 3x, 6x, 12x) Webpage, Link & Marketing Message E-Blast Advertising Opportunity Issue Dedicated Marketing Message

Rev. Leon

R. Perry,

III in Gh

see Corp

ana with

rece ving page ntly orpaned twins 21

orate Gi

Ad Type Full Page Half Page Half Page Quarter Page Eighth Page Box

Measurements 7.50”x10” 7.50”x5” 3.75”x10” 3.75”x5” 5”x3” 2.25”x3”

For detail advertising rate information contact: Advertising Services at 323-291-9334 E-mail: mail@bbala.org