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No. 5. 22nd February 2012 I Tel. 020 7300 7320; 020 7300 7321; 07846062331 I Email: afronews@myownmedia.co.uk
“BEFFTA This Is Love Concert� to raise funds for Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust
Humility in modelling can take one far
page 3
Black leaders criticize Liverpool for mishandling Saurez/Evra affair page 4
Interview with Supermodel Ibukun Jegede
Makoma back with thrilling Gospel album - “Evolution�
pages 10 - 11
page 17
THE GUIDE Migrants entitled to work in UK page 13
Roberto, Zambian music sensation launches new single page18
Banks failing to spot potential of migrant workers - report
page 7
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No. 5. 22nd February 2012 www.theafronews.eu
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WHERE ACTION IS
Simone Williams to showcase designs at Brides of Culture Exhibition IBW Film celebrating achievements of black women showing in London The Inspirational Black Women (IBW) film will be screened on 7th March 2012 at Marcus Garvey Library, Phillip Lane, Tottenham, London, N15 4JA, from 6.30 pm to 7.30 pm.
Brides of Culture Exhibition will take place on Saturday 10th March 2012. This free wedding exhibition will be held at the luxurious surroundings of The Crowne Plaza Hotel in East London’s trendy Docklands.
focused Bridal Exhibition in the journey as a fashion designer and UK. With a dedicated website the phases that the label has gone which serves as an interactive through to become what it is e-channel for brides and grooms today. from all ethnic backgrounds, The Simone Williams fashion Brides of Culture goes beyond label has been up and running the usual, mainstream wedding since the summer of 2004 and is planning portals. based in Hoxton, London. It provides information on Internationally renowned services, products and vendors Wedding & Events Specialist Brides of Culture aims to be for members of the ethnic minor- Seyi Olusanya of Cedar Events the largest Afro-Caribbean ity community on all aspects of will facilitate two exclusive planning a wedding. Masterclasses for delegates at the Simone Williams Brides of Culture Exhibition. The Label is one of the Wedding Planning Masterclasses designers who will be will provide brides-to-be with an showcasing their designs opportunity to receive invaluable at this year’s event. tips and expert advice on “How to Simone Williams will Plan the Perfect Wedding” from showcase the poignant an elite wedding industry profesLife Collection which sional. encapsulates the various BRIDES OF CULTURE stages of life, with each EXHIBITION piece capturing the essence of what it is to 10th March 2012 be truly alive. From 11:00 am to 7:00 pm The Life Crowne Plaza Hotel, C o l l e c t i o n London Docklands , flows effort- Royal Victoria Dock, lessly from E16 1AL London sophisticated Event registration: http://bridesevening wear ofculturemarch2012.eventbrite. to ethereal co.uk/ bridal wear inspired piecSIMONE WILLIAMS LABEL’S es. S i m o n e CONTACT An image of Simone Williams was inspired info@simonewilliams.co.uk Label’s The Life Collection by her own www.simonewilliams.co.uk
Created by Sister Rosanna Lewis and Nzingha Assata, IBW is a film that recognizes the importance of remembering Black women of African heritage. The mainstream British film industry have for many reasons chosen to ignore such women. IBW is an educational film about the contribution of African Empress Menen of women to the world history. The Ethiopia knowledge, determination, and courage of African women are IBW therefore encourages othhighlighted. ers to think of their own favouIBW is suitable for all ages rite role models, and how differand can be used as a learning ent African women have influtool for parents with children enced humanity for the good of under the age of 16, who may all. not be aware of the meaning of IBW is not lottery funded, terms such as Apartheid, or and so joins the increasing numknow much about significant ber of Independent, African epochs of African history, that films that are being produced in include the Haiti Revolution for Britain. IBW is 40 minutes and example. made in colour, with original Ultimately the aim of IBW Black and white archive imagis to honour the bravery and es. tremendous contribution of To arrange a film screening African women, who have tranof IBW in your community and/ scended to the ancestral realm, or obtain a copy of the film, and acknowledge the enduring please write to Azaniagem: lessons they have taught us. email: iblakwomen2012@ Queen Hatsephshut of yahoo.co.uk. ancient Egypt, Empress Menen of Ethiopia, women of the Garvey movement and anti-apartheid organisa- SCREENING OF IBW tions of South Africa are included in IBW. Present day heroes are 7th March 2012 also identified in IBW for From 6.30 to 7.30 pm various reasons and because Marcus Garvey Library, of their ability to overcome Phillip Lane, Tottenham, adversity. There are so many great London, N15 4JA African women achievers. Free
AFRONEWS | My Own Media Ltd. The Old Fire Station, 140 Tabernacle Street, London, EC2A 4SD, United Kingdom | EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Stephen Ogongo Ongong'a | TEL: +44 (0)20 7300 7320 or +39 06 94354517 |Fax: 0207 253 23 06 | Email: afronews@myownmedia.co.uk | ADVERTISING: TEL: 020 7300 7320; 07846062331 | Email: sales@myownmedia. co.uk | DISTRIBUTION: Tojake Uk-Wade | Email: info@myownmedia.co.uk | PRINTING PRESS: Newsfax Ltd, London. | Advertiser and advertising agency assume liability for all content (including text representation, illustrations, and photographs) of advertisements printed or posted, and also assume responsibility for any claims arising there from made against the publisher | Supplement of Africa News, Registered at the Tribunal of Rome. Registration No. 22/2003 - 21-01-2003
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No. 5. 22nd February 2012 www.theafronews.eu
COMMUNITY
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“BEFFTA This Is Love Concert” to raise funds for Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust More celebrities continue to throw their weight behind the “BEFFTA This Is Love Concert” which will raise funds for the Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust. The concert will take place on 31st March 2012 at The Light House in Camberwell. Some of the top UK artists supporting the “BEFFTA This Is Love Concert” are Wretch 32, Wiley, Bash, Scorcher, Omar, Myco Chris, Done E, Dionne Reid, David O, Dego Talented soulful singer-songwritRankings, and many er Dionne Reid will be one of the others. great performers at “BEFFTA Pauline Long, the This Is Love Concert” on 31st organiser of the concert March 2012 at the Lighthouse has confirmed that Baroness Scotland will be among the special guests Anderson-Walsh. Founded in memory of the alongside the CEO of The Stephen late Stephen Lawrence who was Lawrence Charitable Trust, Paul
murdered in an unprovoked racist attack on 22nd April 1993, The Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust is a national educational charity committed to the advancement of social justice; the alleviation of poverty and community cohesion. Its motto is: “Helping young people achieve a meaningful stake in society”. The Trust has helped many young people realise their ambitions to become architects, Stephen’s chosen career, by supporting them with bursaries and mentoring support. In 2008, the Stephen Lawrence Centre was opened in Deptford, South East London giving thousands more young people an opportunity to nurture and use their creativity. Apart from raising funds for The Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust, “BEFFTA This Is Love Concert” is also promoting antihate, anti-violence, peace, love and unity as London hosts the Olympics this year. Buy your tickets now at http:// befftathisislove.eventbrite.com/ By Stephen Ogongo Ongong’a
Wise Women Awards ceremony to be held in London The 8th Wise Women Awards ceremony will be held on 17th March 2012 at the Paddington Hilton Hotel, 146 Praed Street, London W2. This is the only UK event that recognises and honours the contribution of Black Christian women in the Church and in wider society. Attendees will enjoy a threecourse Caribbean meal; entertainment from leading gospel artists, and an inspiring Awards ceremony. The public already nominated Christian women in nine categories, including Music, Media, Leadership, Youth, Business, Missions and the Over-60s. The Wise Women Awards ceremony promises to inspire,
uplift and inform, and provide a platform where some of the major achievements of Black Christian women in Britain will be highlighted. The artists booked to minister are: Beverley Trotman, former X Factor Finalist; Rachel Kerr, MOBO Award nominee; and Premier Gospel Choir directed by Marcia McPherson. For more info and to book tickets, please visit www.wisewomenawards.org.
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COMMUNITY
Stephen Ojerinola buried in Camberwell New Cemetery Stephen was buried in Camberwell New Cemetery on 10th February 2012. Southwark Mayor Lorraine Lauder and the chair of the London Race and Criminal Justice Consortium Lee Jasper attended the service at St. Giles Church, Camberwell. Mr. Jasper, who delivered a eulogy at the funeral, said they were happy with the way the investigation was going so far, but looked forward to justice being done. Stephen went missing in April 2011 when he was 18 years old. His remains were found on 20th November 2011 in the back garden of a house in Eltham, South East London. He was killed and buried in a makeshift grave, then covered with concrete. A garden shed was then erected over the grave. A post-mortem examination revealed that Stephen died from stab wounds. To date a total of seven suspects have been arrested in connection with his mur-
der. Two men - Lee Davies, 35, of Chiswell Square, Greenwich, and William Regan, 36, of Lynsted Gardens, Eltham have been charged with murder and remain in custody. Regan is also accused of two counts of residential burglary. A 31-year-old man has also been arrested in South-East London on suspicion of murder and perverting the course of justice. Three women, one in her 60s and two in their 40s, along with a man in his 40s, have been arrested on suspicion of murder and conspiracy to pervert the course of justice. All remain on bail as the investigation continues. By Oran Blackwood
Home Office allocates funds to help male victims of domestic violence Home Office has allocated £225,000 to be used by 12 organisations that support male victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse, Home Office Minister Lynne Featherstone has announced. The selected organisations will use the money to help ensure a better service for male victims. “I am pleased to announce that we are able to support male victims of domestic violence through this funding. We recognise that men can be victims of these crimes too and deserve support and protection,” Ms. Featherstone said. These grants are just one of a range of actions the government is taking to tackle domestic violence. Overall, £28 million will be directed towards specialist domestic and sexual violence services over the next four years to help victims. Last October, the government ran a consultation on a national Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme,
known as ‘Clare’s Law’. Domestic Violence Protection Orders are currently being piloted in three police force areas to stop offenders from contacting victims or returning to their home for up to 28 days.
Home Office Minister Lynne Featherstone
Black leaders criticize Liverpool for mishandling Saurez/Evra affair An influential group of high profile black leaders has strongly criticized the way Liverpool Football Club (LFC) handled Luis Suarez/Patrice Evra affair. Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish said the club supported Suarez after he was banned for eight matches by the FA for calling Evra “negro”. “We stand alongside Luis Suarez, as the football club has always done for people that they respect and people they appreciate for the efforts they have given to the club,” Mr. Dalglish said. The Consortium of Liverpool and National Black and AntiRacism Organisations has written an open letter accusing LFC and manager Dalglish of grossly mishandling the Saurez/Evra affair, contributing to the incitement of racism in football and wider society. The group called on LFC to accept the findings of the FA investigation that concluded that Suarez had racially abused Evra and offer an immediate and unre-
served apology to Evra. LFC is accused of colluding with racism by seeking to dismiss the FA’s findings and racially aggravating this sensitive issue by inappropriately and misguidedly showing public team support for Suarez after the publication of the FA’s investigative report into the issue. The group noted that the refusal of Suarez to shake Evra’s hand was a further incitement of racism. The group called on LFC to acknowledge the implicit racism involved and issue a statement with other civic leaders committing themselves to opposing racism and to commit to organise a conference on racism in football. Gloria Hyatt MBE said: “Liverpool Football Club has presided over the worst incident of racism in football seen in recent years. Their misguided handling of the Suarez and Evra Saga has let down all of those in the city who work hard to challenge racism and make Liverpool a better place to live for everyone.” Lee Jasper, a national human
©Ardfern
Stephen Temilola Ojerinola, a teenager whose body was discovered in a makeshift grave in Eltham, South East London in November 2011, has been laid to rest.
rights and race equality campaigner urged the LFC, including the owners, the players and the manager “to realise the enormous damage caused by their reluctance and obdurate behaviour.” Recalling that Mr. Dalglish used to manage Celtic, Mr. Jasper said: “He ought to know the importance of stamping out bigotry. The club failed the city, the nation as a whole and in particular Britain’s black communities. Their abysmal lack of leadership on these issues has given a green light to racism. They must make urgent reparations and make a clear and unequivocal apology.”
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COMMUNITY
MoneyGram announced as headline sponsor of Zimbabwe Achievers Awards MoneyGram International, one of the leading international money transfer companies, has been unveiled as the Headline Sponsor of the second edition of Zimbabwe Achievers Awards (ZAA). The partnership between MoneyGram and the ZAA was discussed at a press conference on 9th February 2012 at MoneyGram’s London headquarters. The event was chaired by Dr. Knox Chitiyo, the Africa Fellow and head of the Africa Programme at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) in Whitehall, London. Dr. Chitiyo is also the Chairman of the Britain- Zimbabwe Society (BZS). The panel comprised of the ZAA CEO Conrad Mwanza, MoneyGram Marketing Director Richard Levy, ZAA Panel Chairman Zeb Manatse and Peter Soko, a founding member of the ZAA as well as the producer of the event. Speaking of the involvement of MoneyGram who also supported the awards last year, Mr. Mwanza said: “We are delighted to welcome MoneyGram as the new Headline Sponsor of what will now be called the ‘MoneyGram Zimbabwe Achievers Awards.’ MoneyGram’s involvement with ZAA proves its ongoing commitment to engaging and supporting the community. Their support of this event helps to strengthen an already growing relationship with the Zimbabwean community.” Mr. Levy echoed similar sentiments: “It’s our great pleasure to be the Headline Sponsor of Zimbabwe Achievers Awards; we think it is fantastic that we are able to give back to the community in this way and to show our support. One of the key point objectives for MoneyGram is to show that we are not only a significant company but we also significantly like giving back to the communities.” Mr. Levy said they hoped to see many people at the awards giving night, adding that they’d like to promote the image that “MoneyGram is backing the community,
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Left to right - Dr Knox Chitiyo, Richard Levy, Conrad Mwanza, Zeb Manatse and Peter Sox supporting the Zimbabweans and encouraging great achievement.” Mr. Manatse thanked the public for the record number of nominations for this year. He said that the nominations procedure ensures that “the whole process is not just a popularity contest but it is actually [about] people making contributions within their various fields.” Mr. Manatse also named the recipients of two specific awards - Chairman’s Honorary Award which recognises people who have made significant contributions over a long time and Friends of Zimbabwe Award which recognises those who are not necessarily Zimbabweans but have made significant contributions to the development of Zimbabwe. The awards have respectively gone to Strive Masiyiwa, the founder and chairman of Econet and Professor Terence Ranger, emeritus fellow of St Antony’s College, Oxford and president of the Britain
Zimbabwe Society. Mr. Soko highlighted that the early bird tickets for the awards night taking place at 5* The Grange Tower Hill hotel on 28th April are now on sale for £65 only from the ZAA website. Tickets will remain at this discounted price till 2nd March after which they will be sold at the full price of £80. Asked what the people should expect on the night, Mr. Soko said: “Last year’s event was phenomenal in terms of entertainment. We need to make sure this year’s event is four times better, so what I can assure you is four times better entertainment.” “I can assure you that the ‘who’s who’ of the Zimbabwean community and of the African community and mainstream celebrities will be in attendance,” Mr. Mwanza added. He confirmed that Zimbabwean actress Chipo Chung will be the presenter on the night. “ZAA was born out of a simple vision: to recognise those Zimbabweans who are
working very hard to make other fellow Zimbabweans proud,” Mr. Mwanza said. “Zimbabweans do quite a lot, Zimbabweans are high achievers, forwardthinkers; you find them in all the institutions in high positions. This is what we wanted to highlight. Like any other household, there could be problems, but what about the good things that Zimbabweans do? Who is going to recognise that?” Mr. Mwanza asked. He added that the ZAA is more about the positive things Zimbabweans do. “We wanted to celebrate the positive within the community, bring that pride within the community,” Mr. Mwanza said. Marketing and Sales Director of ZAA, Josh Chigwangwa revealed that a special ZAA magazine will be distributed to all the guests attending the event. For further information about Zimbabwe Achievers Awards, please log on to www. zimachievers.com.
Support Diabetes UK with hair fundraising, children urged Schools from across London are encouraged to sign up for the Mad-March Hair fundraising drive for Diabetes UK. Every child who takes part will pay £1 so they can come to school wearing a silly wig or sporting a wacky hairstyle. The money will help Diabetes UK continue to support people with diabetes and fund research into the condition, which affects 29,000 children and young people in the UK. Diabetes is a condition in which the
amount of glucose in the blood is too high because the body cannot use it properly. If not managed in the correct way, both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, blindness and amputation. Schools can hold the Mad-March Hair event on any day during the month. They’ll receive support from Diabetes UK, including promotional posters, educational materials about diabetes and the option of a guest speaker at a school assembly. Elizabeth Roe, Diabetes UK’s London Region Fundraising Manager, said: “The
Mad-March Hair fundraising event is a cheap, fun and easy way for children to raise vital funds for Diabetes UK. I would encourage as many schools as possible to organise a hair-raising day in March.” To take part, head teachers should contact the Diabetes UK London Team on 020 7424 1126 or email london@diabetes.org. uk. For more information on all aspects of diabetes and access to Diabetes UK activities and services, please visit www.diabetes.org.uk.
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Banks failing to spot potential of migrant workers - report By overlooking the full potential that migrant workers represent, British banks fail to spot an opportunity to grow a completely new pool of customers, a new report shows. ©Dreamtime.com
The report produced jointly by international management consultancy Kurt Salmon and retail financial marketing experts Efma, shows that retail banking is rapidly reaching saturation point so far as attracting new customers is concerned. Yet an opportunity to develop a whole new customer segment (second only to the youth market) is being largely ignored, the report points out. Banks have traditionally taken a narrow view of the migrant community seeing them as requiring only a basic ‘send money home’ service. But as more and more migrants settle in the UK and Europe for extended periods buying property, starting businesses, raising a family etc. their financial needs
are becoming more diverse and there lies the opportunity for banks to tap into this substantial market. The report’s authors believe that with a population nearing 32 million, migrants make up 10% of the European labour force (that’s about half the population of the UK) and if marketed to effectively,
can produce a significant pool of new customers. The report reveals that if banks want to target this opportunity, they will have to create marketing programmes that take religious and cultural needs into account and tailor their products to match the requirements of each migrant community. The challenge, says the report is less about products and more about the methods banks can employ to engage with migrant communities. If banks were to invest in creating a deep understanding of the migrant market and coupled that with affinity programmes aimed at working with the migrant worker sector they could open up a new and significant customer base, says the report.
Anti-deportation activists charged Eleven people were charged on 16th February 2012 following demonstrations at Harmondsworth Immigration Removal Centre in West Drayton on 13th February. The demonstration was organised as part of No Borders Convergence week and aimed at stopping the forcible deportation of 50 Ghanaian migrants. The 11 activists from the No Borders network locked their arms together inside heavy-weight concrete blocks, preventing the coaches carrying the deportees from leaving Harmondsworth detention centre. Around 20 people were involved in the demonstration that lasted almost seven and a half hours. Charges ranged from public order offences to assault on a police officer. All have been bailed at Uxbridge Magistrates Court to return on 8th March. By Oran Blackwood
No. 5. 22nd February 2012 www.theafronews.eu
©Dreamtime.com
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Recruitment agencies practice casual discrimination when dealing with job seekers from black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) backgrounds, a new report has revealed. The report by Race for Opportunity (RfO) shows that this discrimination is hindering BAME candidates in securing interviews and roles. “Race and Recruitment: exposing the barriers”, is an in-depth research piece of more than 2,500 people who have looked for work in the UK in the last 12 months. The report clearly shows that BAME job seekers are not treated equally by recruitment agencies. In the past 12 months, just 29% of BAME candidates were offered a job compared to 44% of white candidates when going through recruitment agencies. This problem starts with a significantly lower proportion of BAME applicants being invited to interview when applying through a recruitment agency - just over half of BAME applicants (57%) compared to nearly three quarters of white applicants (73%) reached this stage. Sandra Kerr, Director at Race for Opportunity, said: “Tough economic times and rising unemployment levels mean that the current job market is extremely competitive, with a high number of applications for every role. If BAME candidates are not
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Recruitment agencies discriminate against BAME applicants being treated fairly by the recruiters at all stages of the job application process, then they are at a distinct disadvantage from the outset.” It is perhaps unsurprising that BAME applicants are less likely to go through a recruitment agency again than a white job seeker, citing poor initial contact and responsiveness and being put forward for roles that do not match their skills set. In fact, BAME applicants are more likely to apply directly to employers (91%) than white applicants (88%). This approach is worthwhile, as employers do not display the same level of disparity as recruitment agencies. In the past 12 months, 29% of white candidates and 29% of BAME candidates secured a job role through this channel. When it comes down to deciding which agencies and employers to approach, evidence of diverse role models and openly welcoming applications from diverse candidates makes a big difference to the decision making process for nearly half of BAME applicants (47%). The importance of diverse role models and active diversity and inclusion policies can never be emphasised enough. Lack of support and evidence of diverse ways of working aren’t the only aspects of job seeking that concern BAME candidates. The interview stage throws up its own challenges and more than a third of BAME candidates would prefer alternative assessment methods (39%). Further, despite BAME applicants feeling adequately prepared for their last interview, with 66% saying they had sufficient
knowledge about the industry and the possible to support their growth and suspotential employer, there remained low tainability. As well as the top tips produced conversion to interview or job offer. by RfO, Diversity Works for London has a “Race and Recruitment” has clearly wealth of help and advice to help employshown that the biggest challenge facing all ers and recruitment agencies find the best job seekers is poor communication. people for the job.” The report has identified four simple Tom Hadley, Recruitment and ‘asks’ of recruitment agencies and busi- Employment Confederation (REC) Director nesses to address that will strengthen their of Policy and Professional Services said ability to be fair and become more diverse: there was need of immediately digging Feedback at each stage of the process to beneath some of the findings of the report manage candidates’ expectations; feeling because many factors are at play when respected and included; having a single employers decide who to offer a job to. point of contact; and availability of alterna“The role of recruitment agencies is to tive assessment methods. match candidates to roles on the basis of RfO has developed three Best Practice their skills, experience and suitability for Recruitment Tips factsheets for employers, the job, with the employer making the final recruitment agents and job seekers includ- decision on who to pre-select for interview ing relevant key findings from “Race and and who to offer the job to. There is absoRecruitment” and top tips to each for equal lutely no reason for recruiters to do anyrecruitment of BAME candidates. A toolkit thing other than put together the best posauthored by an expert recruiter is available sible short-list,” Mr. Hadley said. on the RfO website for all job seekers detailing a checklist of top tips and do’s and don’ts “Tough economic times and rising unemfor the applicaployment levels mean that the current job tion and interview stages. market is extremely competitive, with a high Richard number of applications for every role. If Barnes, Deputy Mayor of BAME candidates are not being treated London, said: fairly by the recruiters at all stages of the “The recruitjob application process, then they are at a ment industry has a key role in distinct disadvantage from the outset” ensuring that London’s busiSandra Kerr, nesses can access the widDirector at Race for Opportunity est talent pool
Lawyer wins gay discrimination claim against law firm An Employment Appeal Tribunal has upheld that law firm Bivonas LLP discriminated against a lawyer on the basis of sexual orientation. The lawyer only identified as Mr. Bennett, based his discrimination claim on a memo from one of the firm’s partners. It falsely implied that Mr. Bennett only selected gay barristers and said he should be sacked. After lodging a grievance, Mr. Bennett said the firm tried to intimidate him
into withdrawing his claim. The Employment Appeal Tribunal agreed that the content of the memo was “a professional slur of the utmost gravity”. It also agreed that the conduct of his grievance was discriminatory. The tribunal considered if a ‘reasonable’ worker would think the memo had put them at a disadvantage. It decided that other people would have been insulted if the memo had been about them. The Employment Appeal Tribunal found no evidence that heterosexual men
had been insulted in the same way as Mr. Bennett for being gay. Nor could the law firm provide justification for treating Mr. Bennett differently to other employees. The Equality and Human Rights Commission funded Mr. Bennett’s defence against the law firm’s appeal. John Wadham, Group Director Legal, Equality and Human Rights Commission said: “Homophobia will not be tolerated in the workplace or anywhere else. We funded Mr. Bennett’s defence and this win has set a precedent for discrimination law.”
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©Dreamtime.com
Hate crimes on the rise in UK
There has been a steady increase crimes, many of whom would find giving in the number of convictions for evidence a stressful ordeal.” The Hate crimes and crimes against hate crimes in the UK in the last older people report 2010-11 by the CPS four years. A new report shows that the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) is prosecuting more hate crimes, more successfully and with more defendants pleading guilty than ever before. “All crime is unacceptable but offences that are driven by hostility or hatred based on personal characteristics are particularly damaging to any civilised society,” said Keir Starmer QC, the Director of Public Prosecutions. “I am particularly pleased that the number of guilty pleas is increasing as this demonstrates that our prosecutors are building stronger cases. The increase in guilty pleas benefits the victims of these
shows that outcomes in cases of hate crime continue to improve. “We should be proud of the work we have done to secure this significant increase but I am determined that we build on this success,” Mr. Starmer said. In 2008-09, there were 9,035 guilty pleas out of a total of 10,690 convictions and 13,030 prosecutions overall relating to hate crime. In 2009-10 this went up to 9,700 guilty pleas, 11,405 convictions and 13,921 prosecutions. In 2010-11 there were 10,823 guilty pleas out of 12,651 convictions and 15,284 prosecutions overall.
For the first time in this report, the CPS I am encouraged by these statistics that we also collected religiously and racially aggra- are on a firm footing to continue that vated crime separately. Of the 12,711 race- fight.” related offences prosecuted in 2010-11, The fourth annual report from the CPS 83.1 per cent were successful. The CPS was has for the second time continued to include successful in 472 out of 565 cases motivat- crimes against older people for analysis. ed by religious hatred, a success rate of 83.4 Although there is no statutory definition per cent. of a crime against an older person, prosecuRecently three men in Derby received tors are now able to identify these cases and prison sentences for stirring up hatred on analysis of these initial statistics show the grounds of sexual orientation. Ihjaz Ali, referrals from police have risen year on Kabir Ahmed and Razwan Javed distributed year. leaflets calling for the death of homosexuMervyn Kohler, of Age UK said: “The als. At the time, Sue Hemming, Head of rate of successful prosecutions involving Special Crime at the CPS said: “Everyone crimes against older people is encouraging, has a right to be protected by the law and and the process of identifying, recording we regard homophobic crimes, along with and flagging a crime against an older perall hate crimes, as particularly serious son is robust. The escalating crime numbers because they undermine people’s right to are more likely to reflect the growing (and feel safe.” welcome) sophistication of the police and Commenting on the sentencing of the the CPS in this field, rather than signal a three men, Mr. Starmer said: “This was the systemically ageist society.” first case of its kind in British legal history and a significant step forward for us in protecting the “The CPS has an important part to play in LGBT commutackling racism and religious hatred in our nity.” society and ignorance of disability, and I He added: “The CPS has am encouraged by these statistics that we an important part to play in are on a firm footing to continue that fight” tackling racism and religious Keir Starmer QC, hatred in our Director of Public Prosecutions society and ignorance of disability, and
©Dreamtime.com
Only brightest, best and richest international students welcome to UK
Those who are neither the “brightest” nor the “best” should forget thinking of coming to study in the UK because they’ll soon be locked out by the new student rules. The new rules will also lock out the poor students. The UK Border Agency has confirmed that the new rules meant to cut abuse of the
student visa route, will come into force on neurs or small company directors will get below degree level. 6th April 2012. the chance to stay on in the UK after their “It is vital that we continue to attract the Students can currently work in the UK studies if they have £50,000 to invest in brightest and the best international students for two years after their course has finished. their business. but we have to be more selective about who But from 6th April 2012 a more selective For the first time since 2008, there will can come here and how long they can stay,” system will come into effect so only the be an increase in the amount of money that Immigration Minister Damian Green said. most talented international graduates can students and working migrants, as well as “In the past, too many students have come apply to stay in the UK for work purposes. their dependents, must prove they have to to the UK to work rather than study and this Under the new rule, only those graduat- support themselves financially during their abuse must end. With the introduction of ing from a university, and having a job offer time in the UK. the Graduate Entrepreneur route and the from a reputable employer accredited by The new rule will also restrict work restrictions on student work we are reformthe UK Border Agency at a salary of placements to one-third of the course for ing the system to deliver immigration to 021211_150.8x69_TTX_Afro_0037_en.ai 1 02/12/2011who 11:21:52 £20,000 or more, will be able to continue international students are studying benefit Britain.” living and working in the UK in order to benefit the British econoT-TALK my. International Calls from your mobile The overhaul of the student visa system will include the creation of a new Graduate Entrepreneur route which will open with Same rates 24/7 ! up to 1,000 places for Use your existing pay students working on monthly or PAYG SIM. world-class innovative For more details visit ideas who want to stay and develop them but www.auracall.com/afro do not meet the requirements of the Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) route. Helpline: 020 8497 4622 Young entrepre-
Instant Cheap calls to Kenya, Ghana and Nigeria!
10
No. 5. 22nd February 2012 www.theafronews.eu
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COVER
Humility in modelling can take one far Exclusive interview with Supermodel Ibukun Jegede Ibukun says that many in the industry denied him jobs simply because he was black. Ibukun was the second male model to win the Top Model of Colour (TMC) competition in 2008. He didn’t expect to win and was in fact surprised when he was announced the winner. “I was glad and
proud of myself because my hard work paid off,” he says. Apart from fighting for more room for black models, Ibukun is also keen on promoting the positive image of Nigeria, his home country. Here’s an exclusive interview he granted The AfroNews. Ibukun, how has winning the TMC influenced your life? It has in so many ways. It was a pathway to success. I was recognised by top British politicians and other dignitaries immediately I won. I was lucky enough
because many Africans in the UK believed in me and supported me. I worked extremely hard, travelled to several countries for events, shoots and shows. I decided to pay back to the society. I wanted to make a pathway for Africans struggling in the modelling industry here. That was my main aim. Although I passed through many challenges for African models to be recognised, it was worth it. What are the challenges you passed through? I remember a client said to me before winning the TMC: “I don’t need monkeys on my show.” I immediately told myself that I had to work for a change through awareness raising. Unfortunately some Africans in the industry didn’t support me due to my age. Being 21 years old then, I guess they thought I was too young to embark on such a mission, but I did my best to make a change for the African models.
©ellzCreationz
Racial discrimination Supermodel Ibukun Jegede faced at the beginning of his modelling career motivated him to fight for more room for black models in the UK.
Are there many male models of colour in the UK? If not, why? At the time I started in England eight years ago, there were very few male models of colour, but things are changing gradually. It’s a hard task to be a model because it is highly competitive. There are some other male models I’m seeing doing well at the moment. What are your highlights? Hmm, I guess breaking through mainstream. I have worn and modelled garments for Paul Smith Collection, Gloverall, Timberland, Fred
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COVER
No. 5. 22nd February 2012 www.theafronews.eu
11
stand the business.
Those aspiring to become models should “understand the conceptional framework of the business, work hard, network with the right people, travel as much as they can. Most of all, humility in the business can take them far”
What are the qualities of your ideal woman? (Laughing). If I start listing, this interview will not end. OK I will give you a hint. She must be beautiful inside and outside, God fearing, well educated with a goal in life. She must be independent and hardworking. Are you single?
Supermodel Ibukun Jegede Perry, Hugo Boss, and Aaron Dowie in the East Midlands. Most of all, I was recognised last year as one of the successful models living in East Midlands.
©ellzCreationz
One thing you like most about yourself? All the people I’ve met say I’m hardworking but I love my level of motivation. One thing you don’t like about yourself? (Laughing). My close friends say I care about people more than myself. They also say I give easily even though it is not convenient for me. I’m guessing that’s a weak point. I don’t know. What’s your favourite food? When it comes to African food, I love pounded yam and Efo riro (Rich vegetable stew). I
also love Shepherd’s Pie served with Yorkshire Pudding, broccoli, vegetable and gravy. What’s your special talent? I will say modelling. How does it feel to be a model? It feels good but many people have this perception that models are party animals, arrogant people without brain. That’s a lie. Many of my friends have also said the same thing. Funny enough! I was recently hanging out with some friends. Some said they thought I was arrogant but discovered that it was the other way round. I see models as hardworking people because I under-
Single? All I will say is, my eyes are on a beautiful chick. What are your future ambitions? I want to have my own management consultancy firm and help the poor. Apart from modelling, what else do you do? I do all sorts of things. I’m a politician and member of Nottingham East Constituency, a model, a student studying Msc Management and Entrepreneurial eBusiness. In short, I am a young businessman trying to make it in life. Any advice to those aspiring to become models? Firstly I strongly advice they understand the conceptional framework of the business, work hard, network with the right people, travel as much as they can. Most of all, humility in the business can take them far. Any other comments? I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone I’ve worked with. To my families you’re all special. To my fans - without you guys I won’t be motivated to make a change. By Stephen Ogongo Ongong’a
BASIC INFORMATION Full Name: Ibukun Jegede Age: 24 Place of birth: Nigeria Height: 6.2 Suit Size: 42R Eyes: Brown Hair Colour: Black Qualification: Currently studying Msc Management and Entrepreneurial eBusiness Contacts: info@ibukunjegede.com
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THE GUIDE
No. 5. 22nd February 2012 www.theafronews.eu
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Migrants entitled to work in UK
Tier 1 – for highly skilled migrants, entrepreneurs, investors, and graduate students Tier 2 – Skilled workers Tier 3 – Low skilled workers (indefinitely suspended) Tier 4 – Students Tier 5 – Temporary works and youth mobility scheme
Tier 1 Tier 1 is broken up into a number of sub-categories.
• Entrepreneurs – £200,000 investment required Individuals who plan to invest in the UK by setting up and being actively involved in running the business can come to the UK under the Entrepreneur sub-category of Tier 1.
• Investors - At least £1 Million available Individuals who plan to make a substantial financial investment in the UK can come under the Investor sub-category of Tier 1.
• Post Study Worker This allows foreign students to remain in the UK after their studies to gain work experience. However this subcategory is going to close in April 2012.
• Exceptional Talent This allows entry if you are internationally recognised as a world leader in the arts and sciences or possess potential world-leading talent in the arts or sciences.
Tier 2 This is a route that is available for those who are skilled and have a sponsor and is split into 4 different sub categories.
• General This allows people coming to the United Kingdom with a job offer to fill a gap that cannot be filled by a settled worker. If a UK organisation would like to employ a foreign national then they must first obtain a sponsorship licence from the UK Border Agency. Once a licence has been obtained, it gives the organisation authority to issue certificates of sponsorship to foreign nationals provided that they meet the conditions set by the UK Border Agency. These include: - The Job is at the prescribed skill level (S/NVQ3 Level or above) - The organisation is unable to find a suitably qualified resident worker after complying with a resident labour market test or the job is on the shortage occupation list - The individual will be paid a salary at or above the appropriate rate for the job.
• Ministers of Religion This allows those people coming to fill a vacancy as a Minister of Religion, Missionary or Member of a Religious Order.
This allows employees of multi-national companies who are being transferred by an overseas employer to a skilled job in a UK-based branch of the organisation. The organisation must have a sponsorship licence and issue a certificate of sponsorship.
• Sports People This allows elite sportspeople and coaches whose employment will make a significant contribution to the development of their sport at the highest level.
To qualify under this category the volunteers will need to provide evidence of sponsorship from the charity.
• Religious workers
Tier 3 This tier was envisaged to capture the unskilled workers. However this has been suspended indefinitely.
Tier 4 Students wishing to study in the UK are required to study at an institution that is registered to sponsor international students. If a student is sponsored by the institution, they will be issued with a
This category is for those who engage in a preaching and pastoral capacity. Religious workers may visit the UK if they are sponsored by the faith community and have provided evidence of this.
• Youth Mobility Schemes This category allows those from participating countries who are aged between 18 and 30 to come to the UK. If successful the applicant would be granted a 24 month visa. Unfortunately there are very few participating countries.
Employing illegal workers
Once an organisation has issued a certificate the individual can apply for leave to enter or remain in the UK. The individual is restricted to working for the organisation that has sponsored them.
• Intra Company Transfers
• Charity/Voluntary Workers
©Dreamtime.com
Most Foreign nationals from EEA Countries are free to work in the UK without a visa. All other nationals, however, require permission from the UK Border Agency. In 2008 the UK Border Agency introduced the Points Based System. This is a 5 tier system which encompasses the previous 80 or so routes to working in the UK.
UK employers should carefully check all prospective employees’ entitlement to work in the UK or could face being fined up to £10,000 per illegal worker. If the employer is found to have knowingly or deliberately employed an illegal migrant worker then there are also potential criminal sanctions the employer could face. By Sejal Karavadra, Head of the Immigration Department at DBS Law.
Confirmation of acceptance certificate. Students are also required to show that they have the required course fee and sufficient funds for maintenance.
Tier 5 This allows those migrants that want to come and work in the UK on a temporary basis. This tier is split into a number of sub categories.
• Creative/Sporting This is for creative artists, sportspeople or entertainers provided that a sponsor has been organised.
Disclaimer: The above article is meant to be relied upon as an informative article and in no way constitutes legal advice. Information is offered for general information purposes only, based on the current law when the information was published in this newspaper. You should always seek advice from an appropriately qualified solicitor on any specific legal enquiry. For legal advice regarding your case, please contact DBS Law for a Consultation with a Solicitor by telephone on 0844 or by email on sejal@dbslaw.co.uk.
Get your latest immigration news on Your news, your guides, your concerns, your beauty, your recipes, your people. This one is all about you! www.foreignersinuk.co.uk
SPECIAL UK LEGAL GUIDE
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AFRICAN NEWS
No. 5. 22nd February 2012 www.theafronews.eu
15
Baaba Maal: Save people in south of Mauritania from starvation Senegalese musician Baaba Maal has appealed to the international community to intervene and save people who are starving in south of Mauritania.
©Oxfam
eat, and I worry about how they will feed themselves until the next harvest,” he said. The Senegalese singer, internationally renowned and recognised for his commitment to developDuring a 48 hour visit to the Gorgol ment in Africa, launched an appeal region of Mauritania, Baaba Maal discovto the international community for ered the harsh reality for communities urgent action: “We cannot watch affected by a food crisis that now touches and do nothing while our brothers one in four people across the country. and sisters in Mauritania are vicToday 700,000 people are food insecure in tims of such a crisis. I have been Mauritania. able to see the solutions that are “What is happening in this part of being put in place. We have to supAfrica is so close to my heart. People are port and strengthen them.” suffering, especially children. I cannot “I met Hamila, a mother of five watch and do nothing,” said Baaba Maal children, who had just bought a after visiting Mauritanian communities at bag of rice thanks to money prothe centre of the current food crisis in the vided by Oxfam. This money will Sahel. Low rainfall, poor harvests, a lack allow her to feed her family over of pasture and rising food prices are among the coming weeks. Hamila is the key factors driving this crisis. among the most vulnerable people “The scale of this crisis is so great that in her community but there are I have to speak out so that the world many other people who need our reacts,” said Baaba Maal who met populahelp,” explained Baaba Maal. tions in the south of the country, not far Musician Baaba Maal visits drought stricken Mauritania with Oxfam Last December, Oxfam and its from his home village in Senegal. partners launched a humanitarian “Some families have almost nothing to response in the south of Mauritania access to clean drinking water are also Oxfam is calling for urgent intervenin order to provide assistance to underway in order to prevent water-borne tions to avoid the worst over the coming 30,000 people, and are planning diseases that lead to malnutrition, espe- months, as well as long-term investments to scale up operations to avoid a cially in children. to strengthen the resilience of populations, “The scale of this crisis is so great major crisis. In coordination with “When I was young, this region was allow communities to cope with bad years, that I have to speak out so that the the emergency plan developed by totally green but every year I see it becom- and prevent crises of the future. the Government, the organisation ing more and more dry. Yet water is there, world reacts” As well as Mauritania, Oxfam is activehas put in place cash transfers to in the river and in the ground. We have to ly supporting communities affected by this allow populations to protect their work together and join forces to solve the crisis in Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Niger Musician Baaba Maal livelihoods. problem, so that we never see this situation and Senegal. Other actions to improve repeated again,” added Baaba Maal.
Continue to fight against abuse of child soldiers - Spindelegger He made the call as the world marked the 10th anniversary of the Optional Protocol on the Involvement of Children in Armed Conflict to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. The Protocol came into force on 12th February 2002. Since then, 144 states have agreed to impose penalties on the involvement of child soldiers in their countries. “We are far from having won the world-wide fight against the recruiting of child soldiers. According to some estimates, 300,000 minors are currently still being used as soldiers. This cruel crime must be prosecuted and
According to some estimates, 300,000 minors are currently still being used as soldiers. This cruel crime must be prosecuted and penalties must be imposed. Dictators and rebel leaders must understand that the international community is not prepared to accept such severe violations of human rights” Austrian Vice Chancellor and Foreign Minister Michael Spindelegger
©Dreamtime.com
The international com- penalties must be imposed. community is not prepared to said on Red Hand Day. The developments of the most munity should renew Dictators and rebel leaders must accept such severe violations of understand that the international human rights,” Dr. Spindelegger recent years do, however, give efforts to fight against the abuse of child soldiers, Austrian Vice Chancellor “We are far from having won the and Foreign Minister world-wide fight against the Michael Spindelegger has recruiting of child soldiers. said.
reason for hope. At the Special Court for Sierra Leone – with the highly experienced Austrian judge Renate Winter as a member of the Appeals Chamber - numerous cases of recruitment of children for armed groups during the bloody civil war are now being investigated. The first judgment of the International Criminal Court in The Hague on the recruitment of child soldiers in the Democratic Republic of Congo is expected to be given soon. “A major challenge is the reintegration of former child soldiers into society. Most of the children are not only scarred for life but are often also excluded from their societies,” Dr. Spindelegger said. “Austria has supported the UN work on re-integrating former child soldiers for many years and also promotes projects of this kind within the framework of the Austrian Development Cooperation.”
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No. 5. 22nd February 2012 www.theafronews.eu
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CARIBBEAN NEWS
Jamaican Government committed to universal healthcare - Ferguson This is said, as the administration is determined to offer universal primary healthcare to persons who use primary public health facilities. The Minister was addressing staff and patients at the Cornwall Regional Hospital, in Montego Bay, St. James, on 17th February during a tour of the institution. Giving his commitment to ease the long wait by patients at public hospitals, the Minister said his immediate task is to, along with stakeholders, develop and deliver the best quality care for Jamaicans. “The new quality care will not come on board before we do a review of the no user fee policy, when we would have put in place the Government health card. We believe that at the secondary level, those who have the ability to pay ought to pay,” he stated. He explained that the Government will be implementing a waiver system to ensure
that those who per cent of persons who seek care are unable to pay in the public health system go to will not be denied primary centres. “We need to also access. set up centres of excellence at the The Minister primary care level so that we can stressed that at ease the pressure…so when you the primary level get here and have to spend anothuniversal access er 5-6 hours in the waiting area… will remain in we cannot boast that this is the place, but at secbest quality care,” he said. ondary facilities, Meanwhile, the Health those who are Minister announced that the tenable to pay should dering process is underway for do so. the multi-million dollar repair of He emphathe nearby Mount Salem Health sised however, Centre, which will improve the that persons quality of care at that facility. should not be He informed also that a deciturned away from sion has been taken to, for the these public first time, include nurses on the health care facilfour regional bodies. “We believe Minister of Health, Hon. Dr. Fenton Ferguson (2nd right) ities due to you have the numbers, you have speaks with patients at the Cornwall Regional Hospital, while the professional skills, you are a inability to pay. “In looking on a tour of the St. James based institution on 17th February major stakeholder in this sector, at universal priand I believe the time has come mary healthcare, that you should have representabest quality care where you are focusing it is not an argument that speaks to neglect on purity and the preventive aspect of tion at the highest level,” he said. for secondary health institutions. It is an healthcare, and develop your centres,” he argument to strengthen, because as far as I told the gathering. By Garfield L. Angus, am concerned, and the Government, and JIS Reporter Dr. Ferguson disclosed that some 80 the people of Jamaica, what you want is
©JIS
Jamaican Minister of Health, Hon. Dr. Fenton Ferguson, has reiterated that there will be no changes to the no user fee policy at public hospitals before there is a Government health card in place.
Jamaica looking to attract billions in Foreign Direct Investment This was stated by Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce (MIIC), Hon. Anthony Hylton on 15th February, as he addressed an investment forum staged by Mayberry Investments at the Knutsford Court Hotel in Kingston. He argued that given the scale of projects that “we must undertake in order to achieve any significant measure of economic transformation, FDI is expected to play an even greater role in the economic development of the country.” He stated that these efforts will also include partnerships involving the “local and foreign private sector investment communities, and the public sector, based on a structure with well-defined roles and responsibilities for each partner.” Jamaica was able to attract an average of US$682.5 million per annum in FDI in the decade of the 2000s, with the stock estimated at US$10.9 billion at the end of 2010. In 2008, alone, the country attracted US$1.4 billion in FDI flows, which Minister Hylton attributed to “inflows in the agricultural/manufacturing/distribution; and the
information communications technology (ICT) sectors, which increased by 61 per cent and 56.2 per cent, respectively, relative to 2007. However, as a result of the global economic downturn, FDI flows to Jamaica plunged in 2009 and 2010, with declines of 62.35 per cent and 57.91 per cent, respectively. The Minister expressed optimism that as the global recession recedes and the pace
of recovery gathers momentum among developed economies, Jamaica will be able to attract the level of investment needed. “Jamaica’s strength as an investment location is grounded in a number of factors: its large English speaking population, competitive wages, accessibility to a diverse labour pool, and its ideal location for trading with the rest of the Western Hemisphere.” “The island’s additional advantages
©JIS
Jamaica will intensify efforts to secure Billions of US Dollars in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), as the Government looks to implement a number of strategic projects that have the potential to sustain economic growth and development.
Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Anthony Hylton (2nd left), emphasises a point to Chief Executive Officer of Mayberry Investments Limited, Gary Peart (right) during discussion at a forum staged by the company at the Knutsford Court Hotel in New Kingston. Others (from left) are: Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Reginald Budhan; and Japan’s Ambassador to Jamaica, His Excellency Hiroshi Yamaguchi
include its proximity to the United States, its historic and emerging relationship with the Latin American bloc and its proximity to the Panama Canal as well as the fact that it is endowed with an abundance of natural resources and a well-developed infrastructure,” he declared. The country’s investment opportunities will be showcased at the JAMPROorganised ‘Jamaica Investment Forum 2012’ set for 1st and 2nd March, where investment opportunities in key growth sectors will be showcased. The event, which will be held at the Montego Bay Convention Centre will present a portfolio of significant projects across different sectors, and highlight a slate of high profile local and international speakers to share ideas on the way forward. “Investors, both local and foreign, stand to benefit from insightful information pertaining to the Government of Jamaica’s investment policies and incentive regimes,” Minister Hylton stated. He noted that the event will also provide “networking opportunities among existing investors and leaders in the local business community. Investors will also have the opportunity to see first-hand some of the select investment projects on specially arranged JAMPRO site visits and private meetings.” By Allan Brooks, JIS Senior Reporter
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No. 5. 22nd February 2012 www.theafronews.eu
ENTERTAINMENT
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Makoma back with thrilling Gospel album - “Evolution” Congolese Gospel Group Makoma has released a new Urban Gospel album titled “Evolution”. It took the band six years to prepare this ten track album which is a combination of Pop, RNB, Dance and Urban styles, with fantastic vocals. Makoma was formed in 1993 by Tutala Makoma. Known as the “Old Testament”, the group is a combination of five brothers and sisters and a friend, all from the Democratic Republic of Congo. They mainly sing in English and Lingala. The youthful nature of members of Makoma band is reflected in their songs which are full of energy and highly danceable. Tutala told The AfroNews that they chose to play the Urban Gospel because “it’s a specific, unique way of singing for the Lord.” People all over the world should have fun when singing for the Lord, Tutala said, adding that they were keen on preaching God’s message using modern beats. While the new album doesn’t feature a traditional Congolese rhythm or Rumba, it has two slow tracks “Ndeko” and “Nguya
TRACKLISTING 1. Evolution (04:22) 2. Alingi Biso (03:52) 3. Yo Ozali (04:03) 4. Ndeko (04:01) 5. Mokonzi (04:45) 6. Se Ye (03:35) 7. Maboko Likolo (04:04) 8. Mokili (04:23) 9. Sosola (04:04) 10. Nguya Na Ye (05:30)
“The world has changed since we released our 1st album in 1999. What’s special about this new album is that it took us six years to find the inspiration to bring a new beat back to our fans. We hope they will like it” Tutala Makoma, Leader of Makoma Na Ye”, which are great and emotional songs. Makoma released their first album “Nzambe Na Bomoyi” in 1999. Their unique style quickly earned them many young fans from all parts of the world. The band has staged big concerts in different countries in Africa, Europe, America and Australia. Makoma’s second LP “Mokonzi Na Bakonzi” released in 2002 confirmed that they were a force to reckon with. In the same year they won the Kora Award as the “Best African Group”. “The world has changed since we released our 1st album in 1999,” Tutala said. “What’s special about this new album is that it took us six years to find the inspiration to bring a new beat back to our fans. We hope they will like it.” Makoma has signed a record deal with BC3 Media which is owned by Philipp
Bauss, who is also the Manager of the band. For the next six months, Makoma will stage promotional gigs throughout the world. The new LP “Evolution” is already out on iTunes, Amazon and Makoma’s official website www.makoma.co.uk for download. The DVD/CD will be released on 1st March 2012. By Stephen Ogongo Ongong’a
MAKOMA’S LINKS AND CONTACTS www.makoma.co.uk www.youtube.com/BC3MEDIA Contact for Management & Distribution: director@bc3media.co.uk Contact for Marketing & Booking: marketing@bc3media.co.uk
Season of Payback for Adam Deacon O r a n g e Wednesdays BAFTA Rising Star award winner Adam Deacon steps into another gritty urban tale. “Payback Season”, Danny Donnelly’s directorial debut, is the story of a football star who escapes life on a council estate only to be pulled back by his past. D e a c o n (“Anuvahood”, “Shank”, “Bonded by Blood”) plays Jerome Davies, who struggles to deal with his fame and still hold onto his roots, a theme that Deacon should be acquainted with.
Davies comes to realise that the streets will feed on you long after you have left them behind. The film focuses on the tension between Davies and Baron,
played by David Ajala (“The Dark Knight”, “Adulthood”), who represents the life Davies tries to leave behind. Davies’ past drags him down as Baron refuses to let him forget the hood they grew up in. The conflict between Davies and Baron comes to a brutal conclusion as Davies sinks deeper into the life he is desperate to escape from. Donnelly’s urban thriller
explores the price of fame and the general release on 9th March. envy lurking behind stardom. By Oran Blackwood Blackmail, violence and extortion are at the heart of the story and highlight the conflicting nature of both the worlds Davies is a part of. Familiar to the stable of urban British film making, Deacon shows anoththe latest entertainment er side to his range in this news on: thriller. The film also stars Nichola Burley (“Streetdance 3D”), Anna Popplewell (“Chronicles of Narnia”), Leo Gregory (“Stoned”, “Menace”) and Sir Geoff Hurst, legendary England footballer, as Davies’ agent Adam Aveley. The film is due for http://www.theafronews.eu/entertainment/blog
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No. 5. 22nd February 2012 www.theafronews.eu
Tel. 0207 300 7320 Email: afronews@myownmedia.co.uk
ENTERTAINMENT
Roberto, Zambian music sensation launches new single Zambian music sensation Roberto was in the UK last week to promote his latest single “Osanisiya So”. The single which was officially launched on 13th February 2012, is already available for digital downloads from major download sites such as iTunes, Spotify, Rhapsody, and Nokia. The charismatic singer, producer, songwriter and radio presenter is currently one of Zambia’s greatest exports. Roberto comes from a musical background. His father is a professional guitar and piano player and his mother is a singer. His musical roots started in South Africa, where he went to school. After forming a few bands and finding his way in music, Roberto began to take it more seriously. He turned his attention to singing after initially being inspired by rap. Hearing Usher’s “My Way” was a turning point in Roberto’s music career. “Music means everything to me, it’s like my life partner,” he said. “Everything that happens with my music is something that I treasure.” The 2009 Zambian Song of the Year Winner is hoping to transcend musical and
feels like winning an award or something. I’m honoured,” he said. Roberto will hold special CD signings around Zambia in March. Those who purchase a physical copy of the single stand a chance of winning a one of a kind “Osanisiya So” Roberto T-shirt, a large calendar poster and the opportunity to co-host the Drive Time Show with Roberto himself on Q-FM Zambia. Those who purchase the single online also have a chance of winning the T-shirt. They simply have to email a copy of the payment receipt received after placing their orders to competitions@officialroberto.
“The future for me is broadening my platform as a musician and I would love to travel to different countries. So many African musicians have crossed borders, for example Akon, so I see African music building globally” Roberto, Zambian musician cultural borders with his music. He would like to work with many different international artists because he enjoys the unique flavours of different continents and countries. Roberto gathers ideas and different genres to develop his musical style. He would like to work with female vocalists such as Mariah Carey and Brandy. He also expressed a wish to work with Craig David, as he was “a huge inspiration at one point.” “The future for me is broadening my platform as a musician and I would love to
travel to different countries. So many African musicians have crossed borders, for example Akon, so I see African music building globally.” Roberto was invited to the Zambian High Commission on 15th February 2012 before continuing on his journey across the globe. “It’s a humbling opportunity. These are my country’s representatives and they are calling out to me, so you can imagine it
com. The online competition closes on 28th March 2012, and the lucky five drawn will be announced on 30th March. For more information, news and updates on Roberto, please go to www. officialroberto.com. By Oran Blackwood
Musician 2Face Idibia is not dead – Manager Nigerian musician 2Face Idibia is alive and currently in studio in Los Angeles, USA, recording a new song, his manager has confirmed to Nollywoodgossip. For unknown reason, some people have been spreading rumours that 2Face Idibia is dead. The musician just recently proposed to his girlfriend Annie Macaulay. Nollywoodgossip received not less than 1,300 emails from readers asking us to confirm or deny the rumour. Well, we contacted 2Face’s people. The singer himself couldn’t speak because he was in the studio. But we were able to speak to Efe, his manager, who is also in the US with him. Here’s what he said: “2Face is not dead. I’ve heard the rumour too. He (2Face) is in the studio in LA right now recording. There’s recording we’re pushing the deadline.” And with a note of anger in his voice, Efe went on: “I think it is jobless people who have never
2Face Idibia seen 2Face or even spoken to him before, that just woke up one day and decided to start this rubbish. 2Face has not even slept since people keep calling him. I assure you he’s very fine and recording now.” 2Face has spent most part of his adult life giving us great music and making us happy, so please let’s leave this humble man alone to enjoy his tear-rubber wife. By Delia Innoma, Nollywoodgossip’s Deputy Editor
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LIFESTYLE & RELIGION
No. 5. 22nd February 2012 www.theafronews.eu
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Caliph: Extremists are “enemies of all of mankind”
Acts of a small number of extremists who destroy the peace and security of society at large contribute to the fear some people hold of mosques and of Islam itself. Such people are “enemies of all of mankind” and their acts are “not at all in keeping with the real teachings of Islam,” said the worldwide Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad. The fifth Caliph of the community recently opened the new Tahir Mosque in South East London, and led its inaugural
prayers. He urged Muslims to cast aside differences of religion, ethnicity and nationality for the sake of peace and unity in the UK. “It is essential that a Muslim should never usurp the rights of others and instead he should cast aside all differences of religion, nationality or ethnicity and seek to become the means of support and love for all others. If someone comes to a Muslim for help, then it is the duty of the Muslim to try and fulfil that need,” he said. Representatives of all major religions gathered for the inaugural ceremony of the new GBP675,000 Mosque in Catford, which had been funded entirely from vol-
untary donations from the Ahmadiyya Muslim community. At the opening ceremony, also attended by Heidi Alexander, MP for Lewisham East and Sir Steve Bullock, Mayor of Lewisham, cheques totalling GBP5000 were presented to the MP’s charity, Youth AID Lewisham, and to the Mayor’s charity the Lavender Trust. This adds to the hundreds of thousands of pounds donated to British charities by the community each year. The purpose of a mosque, His Holiness Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said, is to serve as a beacon for peace. “Peace in society is a two-way process and can only be established if all parties work together towards mutual reconciliation,” His Holiness said. “We must set aside our own personal desires and instead be concerned for the future existence and well-being of our next generations. We must adopt selflessness rather than selfishness. When we all join together and come to respect each other’s feelings and sentiments then and only then will an atmosphere of mutual love develop. It is then that we will truly see the beautiful society that all peaceful people desire.” The National President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community UK, Rafiq Hayat, said: “Love for All, Hatred for None defines the ethos of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community and it underpins our mission in every mosque. These are abodes of peace where we worship God and give thanks for His blessings. “The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community
Faith groups participate in peace initiative for London Olympics Faith leaders and community groups in London are promoting “One Hundred Days of Peace” -- an initiative to develop a “peace legacy” for the London Olympic Games in 2012. Churches, schools and colleges, together with a coalition called London Citizens that includes more than 300 faith and community groups are organizing ecumenical programs of prayer and a range of activities linked to the Olympics to promote peace. These include a campaign called City Safe, which aims to build a network between shops and businesses across London to fight crime. Other activities involve street vigils, talks, discussions and the creation of several peace gardens. Organizers noted that London
has experienced violence and trauma in recent years. “The Olympic bid was won in July 2005 amidst great rejoicing across London. The following day the [terrorist] London bombings took place. Last summer, London experienced dramatic outbreaks of rioting and looting. The need for peace in our city has never been greater,” said Barbara Kentish, Justice and Peace fieldworker with the Catholic Diocese of Westminster. In the 2005 bombings on the London Underground and buses, 52 people were killed and 700 injured. In the Athletes’ Village at Olympics Park, a six-room multifaith space has been created to serve Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Sikh, Jewish, Bahá’í, Jain, Buddhist and Zoroastrian athletes and their supporters. During the Games more than 200 volunteer chaplains will be on duty.
Volunteers from all faiths will also be assisting as guides and first aiders, supplying refreshments and counselling. The tradition of an Olympics truce was established in 9th century BC to enable competitors and spectators to travel safely to and from the games through ancient Greece’s warring citystates. The International Olympic Committee decided to revive the ancient concept of the Olympic truce with the view to protecting the interests of the athletes and sport in general, and to encourage the search for peaceful and diplomatic solutions to conflicts around the world. For more information, see: http://www.peacelegacy.org.uk/ and http://www.citizensuk.org/ By Jo Siedlecka, ENInews
“It is essential that a Muslim should never usurp the rights of others and instead he should cast aside all differences of religion, nationality or ethnicity and seek to become the means of support and love for all others. If someone comes to a Muslim for help, then it is the duty of the Muslim to try and fulfil that need” His Holiness Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community built the first mosque in London in Putney in 1924 and at the turn off this century, we opened western Europe’s biggest mosque, again in London. The new mosque in Catford will share the vision that is common to all our mosques and that is an ongoing commitment to build bridges between communities and to strive for peace.” The mosque will serve some 300 worshippers and features prayer halls for men and women.
Advertising restrictions don’t protect children from junk food marketing - BHF Despite regulations restricting TV ads for junk food during kids’ programmes, children are still exposed to the same level of advertising for unhealthy foods, new research partly funded by British Heart Foundation (BHF) has found. Under current restrictions, foods which are high in fat, salt and sugar can’t be shown during children’s television programmes. A team of researchers from Newcastle University found that almost all adverts shown during children’s programmes met current restrictions. But children’s exposure to junk food ads remained the same because children also watch TV outside of these times. BHF’s Policy Manager, Mubeen Bhutta, said: “This research shows that loopholes in advertising regulations allow
our children to be targeted with promotions for junk food during their favourite TV shows. “Our recent report found manufacturers are also targeting children online, with promotions for unhealthy foods which can’t be advertised during children’s TV. It’s clear that current restrictions simply don’t go far enough.” Bhutta added that in order to protect children, “all junk food adverts should be screened after the 9pm watershed.” BHF has called for consistent advertising regulations across all forms of media, including online, to protect the children. “It’s time for the Government to put the health of our children above the health of the advertising industry,” Bhutta said. The research was published in the journal PLoS One.
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