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New movie highlights problems immigrants face in UK
JuliLurenz’s founder sets sights on Britain’s Top Designer title
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BEFFTA UK 2012 now accepting public nominations
THE GUIDE Safeguarding Children: Whose Job Is It? page 12
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Koo Nimo’s new LP revives beautiful roots of highlife pages 10-11
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Former Miss Congo UK eyes Top Model of Colour Crown page 7
Action against ‘rogue landlords’ launched page 8
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Gérard Quenum’s “Dolls Never Die” exhibition on at October Gallery already served as hand-me down props, expressing the imaginative outpourings of generations of European children before having been repackaged and sent off to Africa in overseas aid parcels. The transformations imposed by that harsher environment – the loss, over time and with constant use of eyes, of limbs and hair – are still incapable of entirely exhausting these puppets of their capacities for speech. In Mr. Quenum’s artful assemblages the disparate parts come together to assume a narrative gift of tongues. The sculptor’s magical ability is in Gérard Quenum (Benin), Rodeo, 2012. Wood, cloth and plastic doll, 73 x 45 x 27cm. knowing how to Photo by Catherine Laurent, Courtesy October Gallery, London engage the faculties of the imagination by Sculptor Gérard Quenum ing out of Africa, Mr. Quenum’s work is transporting the viewreturns to the October Gallery composed of an eclectic mix of “objets er into an alternate realm that transcends with a new solo exhibition titled trouvés” – that elevates the pieces into space and time. poignant, mysterious and whimsical ‘porSo too, with the types of wooden “Dolls Never Die”. The exhibition will present a series of traits’ of individuals observed in his local objects he uses: mortars, ritual drums or pilings that once supported entire houses new sculptures and an installation com- environment. These ‘portraits’ serve as a lens through in the marshy lagoons surrounding Portoposed of recycled objects whose diverse Novo. histories contribute much to the overall which we view Africa. The dolls that Mr. Quenum employs as They contain whole hidden histories of significance of the pieces themselves. models and part-time actors on his stages inherited stories – impregnated in the Like many of his contemporaries comare doubly-recycled, in that they have
wood – whose roughened surfaces bespeak the lives of other peoples, other worlds and other experiences. Mr. Quenum was born in the coastal town of Porto Novo, Benin in 1971. He stands out as one of the most original creators of a distinct sculptural style using urban detritus. His works can be found in major public collections including the British Museum, National Museums of Scotland and the Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University, California. In July 2012, Mr. Quenum’s work was exhibited at the National Football Museum in Manchester as part of its inaugural exhibition entitled “Moving Into Space”.
DOLLS NEVER DIE EXHIBITION Dates: 20th September – 27th October 2012 Venue: October Gallery, 24 Old Gloucester Street, London WC1N 3AL Telephone: 020 7242 7367 Opening hours: Tuesday – Saturday 12.30 - 5.30pm Courtyard café: Tuesday – Friday 12.30 - 2.30pm Admission: Free www.octobergallery.co.uk Nearest tubes: Holborn/Russell Square Buses: 19, 25, 38, 55, 168 and 188
Big stars to perform at London African Music Festival The 10th London African Music Festival will take place from 14th to 29th September 2012.
The festival organised by Joyful Noise and The Arts Council England, will take place at the following venues across London: Ronnie Scott’s; the Africa Centre; Stratford Circus; Jazz Café; The Vortex Jazz Club; New Empowering Church; Hackney Attic and Upstairs at The Ritzy. The following stars will perform at the festival: Yaaba Funk (14th September at Africa Centre); Jumoke Fashola (14th September at Vortex Jazz Club); Bukky Leo and Black Egypt
(15th September at Vortex Jazz Club); Lucky Ranku, Gary Crosby and Omar Puente (17th September at Vortex Jazz Club); Diabel Cissokho (18th September at Vortex Jazz Club); Ayinke Martins and Sara Mcguinness (19th September at Vortex Jazz Club); The Master Drummers of Africa (19th September at Stratford Circus); Ska Cubano (20th September at Stratford Circus); Krar Collective (20th September at Richmix); Mad Professor (21st September at Stratford Circus); Carmen Souza (21st September at Jazz Café); The Congo Allstars (22nd September at Jazz Café); Funmi Olawumi (23rd September at Ronnie Scott’s Club); Modeste
(25th September at Jazz Café); The Yoruba Women Choir + Bumi Thomas (26th September at Stratford Circus); Tony Dudu (27th September at Brixton Ritzy); Rise Kagona of the Bhundu Boys (28th September at Africa Centre); The African Jazz Allstars (29th September at Jazz Café); and Dele Sosimi and his Afrobeat Orchestra (29th September at New Empowering Church). The 10th London African Music Festival is programmed by Biyi Adepegba and directed by Barbara Pukwana. For further information about the festival, please log on to: http://www.joyfulnoise.co.uk/london-africanmusic-festival/
The Yoruba Women Choir
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 therefrom 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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BEFFTA UK 2012 now accepting public nominations Black Entertainment Film Fashion and TV Awards (BEFFTA) is now accepting public nominations. The prestigious and unique red carpet award ceremony celebrates both known and unknown talented personalities in entertainment, film, fashion, TV and arts.
Members of the public are encouraged to nominate personalities from various showbiz sectors including musicians, DJs, promoters, fashion designers, models, TV stations, TV personalities, beauty queens, beauty pageant directors, comedians, film directors, music producers, actors, actresses, poets/spoken word artists, journalists, blog-
gers, fashion choreographers, radio stations, radio personalities, presenters and more. The 4th Annual BEFFTA UK will take place on 27th October 2012 at the Hippodrome, Golders Green. Special guests are expected from Canada, USA, Australia, Africa, Caribbean and Europe. “Like every year we are hoping to open opportunities to hard-working and talented African/Caribbean personalities in entertainment, film, fashion, television and arts. The BEFFTA team has been carrying out research on potential nominees but it is now time to invite the public to join in and send us their nominees. Being nominated is an honour and we at BEFFTA feel it is important to reward and recognise talent,” said BEFFTA founder Pauline Long. The public nominations will close on 14th September 2012. BEFFTA UK Awards final nomination list will be decided by a special panel of eight BEFFTA Members. BEFFTA Awards, which is Europe’s biggest award ceremony for African/Caribbean personalities is inviting sponsorship and partnership from individuals and organisations. Full nomination categories can be found here: http://www. beffta.com/news/ Send your nominations to: nominations@beffta.com
“Like every year we are hoping to open opportunities to hard-working and talented African/ Caribbean personalities in entertainment, film, fashion, television and arts. The BEFFTA team has been carrying out research on potential nominees but it is now time to invite the public to join in and send us their nominees. Being nominated is an honour and we at BEFFTA feel it is important to reward and recognise talent” BEFFTA founder Pauline Long
Nigerian Supermodel Ibukun enrols for PhD Nigerian Supermodel Ibukun Jegede has enrolled for PhD in Information System Management at the Walden University, USA.
Nigerian Supermodel Ibukun Jegede encourages African models to go for further education
Ibukun said he decided to go for further studies because he believes education is one of the keys to success. The Supermodel intends to become an Information System Management Consultant. He also plans to own a consultancy firm in the future. Ibukun has been a role model to upcoming African models. He always encourages upcoming models to have a degree to fall back on. Ibukun will be starting his research next year in an African country. The Supermodel who started modelling eight years ago when
he was 16 years old, has worked with different designers including Paul Smith, Timberland, Fred Perry DKNY, Hugo Boss, Gloverall and Aaron Dowie. He has also worked in different countries across the globe including Spain, France, Kenya, Senegal, Nigeria and the USA. Ibukun was the first African male model in the UK to win the Top Model of Colour (TMC) competition in 2008. In 2007, he received Standout Model of the Year Award by Modelsat while in 2009, Ibukun won Best Male Model of the Year Award at the BEFFTA Awards. In 2010, he was awarded Model Icon of the Year. Ibukun has just completed his MSc (Masters) in Management and Entrepreneurial eBusiness. Programme in Nottingham Trent
University and is waiting for his graduation ceremony. By Stephen Ogongo Ongong’a
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‘Jump in Ship’
Artist Eugene Ankomah to launch brand new artwork Eugene Ankomah, a famous London based artist is set to launch a brand new, never seen before style of work.
The collection called ‘Jump in Ship’, features the innovative work of Eugene as well as a small range of work created by other artists. The contemporary artist is using his style in a new way to excite his fan base and to gain a new set of followers. Eugene is a helpful and caring character within society and this is shown by how he spends his time. “Since the London riots in 2011, I have spent quite a bit of time with the younger generation as they got much of the blame,” Eugene says. “I feel this was wrong of society to blame them, and so I have worked on many projects to create a sense of community and to lead them in a good direction. The riots inspired me but so did the younger people and so I wanted to give them purpose and direction and this will be seen throughout my work.”
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Eugene is pulling out all of the stops to ensure that the launch for his new company EA Creative Art is superb. Having hired two boats, the ‘Lady Daphne’ and the ‘Phoenicia’ he will certainly be the talk of the town. Eugene is known for his wild and diverse work within the art world and has attracted many high profile names such as English poet Michael Horovitz, singer Dizzie Rascal, the Royal Family in Turin, Italy and actress Freema Agyeman alongside many more celebrities. Throughout his career, Eugene is always re-inventing himself through his work. In recent years he has been greatly influenced by the African cultures creating a range of tribal pieces including sculptures, performances and artworks. “All these works and mediums looked at aspects of my African identity and my metamorphosis as a cross-cultural artist. On the whole I am inspired by many different cultures. I can get inspiration from the smallest idea or vision; it’s something I can never predict.” ‘Jump in Ship’ will be launched on 28th September 2012 and is based at St Katherine’s dock, London. The festivities will include a hot buffet, drinks, entertainment, games, a raffle, an exhibition of the artist’s work and an auction. Tickets are priced at £95 each and are limited. For more information or to get hold of a ticket call Expose to Connections on 0845 094 1634 or e-mail them on info@exposetoconnections.co.uk.
Rhoda Wilson shortlisted for Best Media Personality at NEL Awards Rhoda Wilson, presenter of ‘The Rhoda Wilson Show’ has been shortlisted in the Best Media Personality Category of the 2012 Nigerian Entertainment & Lifestyle (NEL) Awards.
Ms. Rhoda Wilson, presenter of ‘The Rhoda Wilson Show’
This award recognises the contribution that Ms. Wilson has made to the world of Television and the Media in the UK. Her man-
tra of “Inspiring You to Aspire to Life” has been maintained throughout the course of her media career. The NEL Awards commenced in 2011 and is the first and best industry event of its kind in the UK celebrating and recognising the achievements of Nigerians in the Entertainment and Lifestyle sectors. Ms. Wilson profiles a variety of guests in her show. She has also appeared on a number of TV and radio shows including BBC World Service, VoxAfrica, Bang Radio and Colourful Radio. Ms. Wilson has been profiled on the Business Fight Poverty sites and featured in
print publications such The AfroNews, Nigeria Watch and New African Women. Earlier this year President Jacob Zuma and the Government of South Africa invited Ms. Wilson as a guest of the African Union to attend the “Global African Diaspora Summit” in South Africa. She was one of only two members of the British-African Diaspora to receive this invitation. Ms. Wilson is a well-recognised TV personality across the UK Diaspora and is proud of this nomination and shortlisting. The NEL Awards will take place on 22nd September 2012. For more information, visit www.nelawards.com.
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JuliLurenz’s founder sets sights on Britain’s Top Designer title Juliet Awolesi, a Nigerian mother of two is one of the 11 fashion designers from across the UK to win a place as a contestant on Britain’s largest fashion design competition, Britain’s Top Designer.
Juliet, 30, from Manchester was ecstatic when her unique designs won her a place as a contestant. As the only applicant from Manchester to make it through to this stage, the competition offers Juliet the ideal opportunity to establish her brand JuliaLurenz. Organised by fashion events company, Fashions Finest, Britain’s Top Designer is a ‘cutting edge’ competition with the objective of offering budding designers the platform to launch and establish their brands. The judges include a creative director from Kosibah, Head stylist at Fashions Finest and buyer at Paul Smith. The competition takes place on 15th September 2012 during London Fashion Week. Juliet’s design career started as a hobby customising her and her daughter’s clothing. Her husband bought her a sewing machine as a Valentine’s gift only four years ago, at which point she decided to take her design talent more seriously. Since then, Juliet has received high levels of interest from the general public and the media. Combining Juliet’s African heritage with contemporary European styles has allowed her to develop designs that speak to a new generation of the fashion conscious. She uses her distinct approach to flamboyant African prints, angular shapes and clean modern lines to produce corporate wear, evening gowns and special event
“This competition means the whole world to me. It is like a dream come true. I receive inspiration in my sleep and wake up with drawings and designs. It comes so naturally to me. It is fantastic to get an opportunity like this to showcase my work” Ms. Juliet Awolesi, Founder of JuliLurenz pieces for both males and females. Juliet has been able to develop a range that has seen her win a chance to be titled ‘Britain’s Top Designer’. Speaking on how she feels about being involved in the competition, Juliet said: “This competition means the whole world to me. It is like a dream come true. I receive inspiration in my sleep and wake up with drawings and designs. It comes so naturally to me. It is fantastic to get an opportunity like this to showcase my work.” Juliet is currently working in association with Manchester based Marketing Agency, Most High Marketing. Marketing and PR Director, Adaeze Chiwoko, said: “We are extremely proud to be working with Juliet. She is an example of what it means to chase after your dreams. Her design ability is fantastic and we really
believe that she will do very well within and beyond this competition.” Naming fashion design icon Versace as an inspiration to her, Juliet has her sights set on turning JuliaLurenz into a household name.
Some of JuliLurenz’s collection
JuliLurenz www.julialurenz.wordpress.co.uk Facebook: Julialurenz JL
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Former Miss Congo UK eyes Top Model of Colour Crown
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Amelia remembers telling Rose that she wasn’t a model, but was aspiring to be one. To her surprise, Rose told her she was planning to showcase a dress and Amelia was the best model to wear it. That’s how Amelia ended up taking part in the Waltham Forest Fashion Show. She has since been taking part in different fashion shows includ-
“No matter how long it will take don’t ever give up on your dream and always be yourself” Model Amelia Lola
As a child, Amelia Lola’s friends and family members in the Democratic Republic of the Congo never thought she would be a model. They were in fact convinced that she was too tall to be one.
They used to call her “Molayi” which in Lingala means the tall one. “I hated that name because it made me feel insecure and less confident until my grandmother who raised me advised me to accept it. She helped build my confidence,” Amelia says. From that moment she started ignoring
them. Whenever they called her “Molayi”, Amelia told them: “My grand mum says I’m her Miss Congo. I can also be a model or an air hostess.” When she was 13 years old, Amelia’s school organised a fashion show and they were looking for students to model. Amelia got involved and since then her interest in modelling has been growing. Amelia, who has always believed that there is room for her in the fashion industry, has now won her ticket to the finals of Top Model of Colour 2012. The care home worker joined
her family in London at the age of 14. When she revealed her modelling dream to her mother, she wasn’t amused. But the young girl didn’t let that discourage her. She bought herself a camera and started taking herself pictures, secretly calling herself a top model. Amelia learnt more about modelling by watching fashion shows on YouTube and imitating how to pose. One lucky day, in 2007, while shopping, she met a designer called Rose Mbayo. Attracted by her beauty, Rose stopped Amelia and asked her if she was a model.
2012, she’ll use the title to support charities helping African children in different countries. Asked what she’d like to say to those who organise fashion events in the UK but deny models of colour a chance of taking part, Amelia says: “I think racism should stop in the fashion industry. You can’t judge someone by his or her colour.” Amelia is very proud of her black skin colour. While she likes every part of her body, she is quick to point out that she likes most her “eyes, legs, lips and especially my skin colour.” She loves music so much that she goes to bed with music and wakes up with music. Amelia enjoys listening to RnB, Nigerian music, Zouk, and Congolese music. Her favourite book is the Bible. Asked what she likes most about herself, Amelia says: “I like the fact that I believe I’m unique.” Apart from modelling, Amelia also likes designing. She has just created her new label called A.L Couture and she is keen to come up with unique designs. “My ambition is not only to be a model, but to also be a designer,” Amelia says. She has a dream of travelling to many African countries to do some modelling jobs there. “As a finalist of Top Model of Colour all I need is to focus on this competition and God will take care of the rest,” she says. Amelia’s ideal man is one who loves her for who she is, not because of how she looks. He must be mature, respect Amelia and her family, career and friends. “No matter how long it will take don’t ever give up on your dream and always be yourself,” Amelia advises young people.
ing Camer Couture, Congo Fashion Week, Elite Fashion Show, Runway Diva Fashion Show, etc. Modelling, Amelia says, is fun but hard. “You need to be very determined and very passionate. What I’ve realised in the fashion industry is, don’t put money first,” she says, adding that initially one needs to get more modelling jobs in order to be known. Amelia who was Miss Congo UK 2010 is convinced she deserves to be the Female Top Model of Colour UK 2012. She is eying the crown because she doesn’t believe in failure. She believes in setting objectives and working hard towards achieving them. Amelia listens to her heart and seeks God’s guidance in everything she does. She loves taking risks once she feels she should do something. “When you have confidence and believe in yourself you By Stephen Ogongo are already a winner,” she says. Ongong’a Amelia is however, not afraid of failing to get what she wants. W h e t h e r Full Name: Amelia Lola she gets it or not, Amelia Date of birth: 16th November 1990 says, what mat- Place of birth: DRC ters most is Height: 5”11 having worked Bust: A hard for it and the experience Waist: 30 she gets along Hips: 38 the way. Dress Size: 10 Should Amelia suc- Shoe Size: 8 ceed in becom- Eyes: Brown ing the Female Hair Colour: Black Top Model of Contacts: amelia_lola@live.co.uk Colour UK
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Ministers launch action against ‘rogue landlords’
A major clampdown on rogue landlords has been launched to bring an end to suburban shanty towns that trap vulnerable people in dangerous living conditions.
Housing Minister Grant Shapps and the then Immigration Minister Damian Green launched new guidance to councils giving them wide range of powers to shut
down so-called ‘beds in sheds’ that blight entire neighbourhoods. They’ve also been given powers to take action against other bad practices by landlords such as overcrowding and poor maintenance. Mr. Shapps and Mr. Green saw the evidence for themselves when they attended an early morning visit on a suspected rogue landlord’s properties, and witnessed the squalid conditions the
Mark Harper appointed new Immigration Minister Prime Minister David Cameron has appointed Mark Harper, Member of Parliament for Forest of Dean as the new Immigration Minister.
In his new post as a Minister at the Home Office, Mr. Harper will be working for the Home Secretary, Rt Hon Theresa May MP, focusing on matters relating to immigration. Mr. Harper said: “It is a real privilege to represent the Forest of Dean in Mark Harper, MP, the new Parliament, and I will conImmigration Minister tinue to serve my constituents loyally as I have done “I look forward to working for the last seven years. It with Theresa May on playing was a privilege to be asked by our part in keeping this country the Prime Minister to join the a safe place to live, while makCoalition Government in 2010, ing our economy more competiand is a further honour to be tive and ensuring our country is asked to take up this new role in one for people who work hard the Home Office. and want to get on.”
‘tenants’ paid hundreds of pounds a week to live in. While visiting six properties, officials from Ealing Council and the UK Border Agency encountered 39 individual tenants, 22 of whom were illegal immigrants. Of those 22 illegal immigrants encountered, 19 were detained while three were required to report to a Reporting Centre because they were a couple with a young child.
Nine out of the 19 detainees entered the country without leave, eight were overstayers, one was a failed asylum seeker and one was working in breach of his visa conditions. The new guidance highlights the range of actions councils can take to clamp down on rogue landlords. These include: taking action using a full range of legal powers to stop rogue landlord activities; working with other organisations including the police and UK Border Agency to tackle linked criminal behaviour; prosecuting landlords who persistently let illegal property; and naming and shaming prosecuted landlords by publicising successful cases. Thousands of sheds and outbuildings are being rented out illegally to vulnerable migrants by ruthless landlords who charge them extortionate rents to live in cramped conditions. These ‘tenants’ can often find it difficult to return home quickly with some having destroyed their passports to avoid removal often leaving them to either live in these outbuildings or face living on the streets. “It’s simply unacceptable that
people are living in squalid, unsafe accommodation provided by landlords more interested in a quick profit rather than their basic responsibilities,” Mr. Shapps said. “The actions of these rogue landlords are helping fuel illegal working and benefit fraud and creates a shadow housing market that carries dangers to people’s health as well as community relations. I want to see all agencies from councils to the police and the UK Border Agency using the full range of powers at their disposal to work together on a national clampdown towards ridding our communities of this problem once and for all.” Mr. Green said: “Operations like this show our determination to do whatever is necessary, working alongside local authorities and police, to enforce our laws against those who are in the UK illegally. “The UK Border Agency continues to gather intelligence about those illegally in the country. Those with no right to be in the UK must leave the country. If they need help to leave the country voluntarily we will offer it but if they refuse we will enforce their removal.”
Net migration to UK falls slightly, says ONS Net migration in the UK fell to 216,000 in December 2011 from 252,000 in December 2010, latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show.
Latest Home Office statistics also reveal further reductions in the number of student and work visas issued – two of the main reasons for migration to the UK. “We are now starting to see the real difference our tough policies are making, with an overall fall in net migration and the number of visas issued at its lowest since 2005,” the then Immigration Minister Damian Green said. “At the same time, there are encouraging signs that we continue to attract the brightest and best and to support tourism in the UK.” Mr. Green renewed the promise that they’ll “continue to work hard to ensure that net migration is reduced from the hundreds of thousands to the tens of thousands by the end of this
Parliament.” He said they are working on reducing the net migration “by improving the selectivity of our immigration system and increasing enforcement activity to prevent people coming into the UK illegally and removing those with no right to be here.” The Home Office figures also showed that for the 12 months to June 2012, the latest period for which stats are available, the overall number of visas issued fell by 16% to the lowest 12 month total for which comparable data is available. Over the same period the number of visit visas increased by 3%. Home Office said this shows that “we can control long term net migration while continuing to attract tourists and stimulate growth.” For the year to June 2012 the number of student visas issued has decreased by 30% compared to the year before. Work visas are also down by
7% and family visas down by 10% in the 12 months to June 2012, compared to the same period to June 2011. The number of grants of extensions to stay has fallen by 11% for the year ending June 2012, compared to the year before. Settlement also fell by a third in the year ending June 2012, compared with the previous 12 months, to the lowest level in the last five years. Grants of settlement on a discretionary basis fell by 84% - this follows the completion of the review of a backlog of cases from before March 2007. Home Office said that the 4% increase in Tier 2 visas issued in the last 12 months to June 2012, compared to the same period last year demonstrates they are attracting skilled workers. Latest Home Office figures also show that admissions of Chinese visitors increased by 28% in 2011 compared to 2010.
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A committee of MPs has strong- cracy for universities and an increasingly ly criticised the government’s complex system for students to navigate.” She also accused the UK Border Agency attempts to tighten the student of providing poor customer support. visa system. The Public Accounts Committee’s report criticised the points-based visa system introduced in 2009 saying its implementation was “poorly planned and illthought out”. “It is extraordinary that the UK Border Agency introduced its new points based system for students before proper controls were in place to replace the old ones,” Rt Hon Margaret Hodge MP, Chair of the Committee of Public Accounts, said. “The result of the Agency’s poorly planned and ill-thought out course of action was chaos: an immediate high level of abuse of the new system and a surge in the number of student visas. In 2009 the number of migrants who abused the student route to work rather than study went up by as much as 40,000 to 50,000.” The UK Border Agency has since “been playing catch-up, continually adjusting the rules and procedures in order to try and tackle abuse,” Ms. Hodge said. “The result has been to create a huge amount of bureau-
The report pointed out that the Agency has not taken sufficient action to deal with migrants abusing the student route. The Agency took the decision to focus on controls over entry to the UK. It also decided to prioritise removing individuals proven to be ‘high harm’, for example foreign national prisoners. The Committee urged the Agency not to ignore such large numbers of people living and working in the UK illegally. “Genuine international students make a valuable contribution to life in the UK and to our economy, and the Agency must reduce the burden on those students and institutions who pose a low risk,” Ms. Hodge said. “Despite the surge in the number of people abusing the student route, the Agency has not done enough to remove those who are here illegally. Even where it has been told by colleges that so-called students are not studying, it has been unacceptably slow to act.” Ms. Hodge urged the UK Border
Immigration rules for overstayers to change in October In June 2012 the UK Border Agency announced that from 1st October 2012 applications for further leave will be refused if you have overstayed your leave by more than 28 days at the point you made your application.
from 1st October 2012, will apply to applications under the remaining routes which were made on or after 9th July 2012. If you have limited leave to remain you must ensure you apply to extend your leave in good time if you are applying for further leave under: the points-based system; all working and student routes; visiting The new rules already apply routes; long residency routes; to applications made under the discharged HM Forces; or UK family migration route and, ancestry routes. If you have limited leave to remain you must ensure you apply to extend your leave, if needed, in time. If you wish to remain in the UK after the 28 day period you should leave the UK about and from and reapply for a visa. the Black Community If you are applying to in the UK on extend your Tier 4 (Student) leave the gap between the end of your current leave and the start of your studies must be no more than 28 days. This change will affect all Tier 4 applications for further leave to remain that are made on or after http://www.theafronews.eu/black-community/blog 1st October 2012.
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MPs criticise UK Border Agency over student visas
Agency to take urgent enforcement action to remove such students. “This would also send a message to other would-be migrants that the student route is not an easy option for those with no intention of studying,” she said.
Noting that currently net migration figures include students who generally stay in the UK for less than five years, the Committee said it would be more informative to exclude students from net migration statistics.
Price of UK passport reduced The cost of UK passport has been reduced. The new cost for an adult standard passport is £72.50 - a reduction of £5 from the previous cost of £77.50.
The price of a new passport will stay in place until March 2015. Home Office said that the passport price reduction is being introduced after a restructuring programme at the Identity and Passport Service (IPS), resulting in savings of £40 million in the last financial year. The UK passport, which is valid for 10 years, is cheaper than the equivalent in Australia (£152) and the USA (£88.36). It is also 021211_150.8x69_TTX_Afro_0037_en.ai
cheaper than in New Zealand, where a five year passport is £77.76. “It is good news that IPS have made savings which will be passed on to the public who use their services,” the then Immigration Minister Damian Green said. “This reduction is due to the hard work of all at IPS and I commend them for their dedication in delivering a stronger and leaner service in these tough economic times.” IPS Chief Executive Sarah Rapson said: “The UK passport is one of the most trusted and secure documents in the world 1 and 02/12/2011 last 11:21:52 year we produced 5.4
million. “I am pleased that we have also been able to deliver a more efficient service whilst maintaining a high standard. We are committed to giving fee payers better value for money and this reduction is testament to the hard work of all involved here.”
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COVER
To the End of the Road
New film puts spotlight on immigration officers’ brutality A new film narrating a gripping story about life in the UK as a first generation immigrant family is set for release this month.
“To the End of the Road” directed by Gibson Tawanda Chimuzinga, is a film that will provoke serious debates and reflections not only on how immigration officials in the UK use their powers, but also on their attitudes towards asylum seekers and immigrants. A young woman, Yolandra is blighted by the ill effects of her mum, Sarah’s life which was savagely wrecked by her selfish Civil Servant lover (Dave) who used her after falsely promising her a better life. “To the End of the Road” brings to the fore the epitome of human betrayal, abuse and survival and heart stopping action. Mr. Chimuzinga says his experiences as an immigrant inspired him to write the movie’s script. “I made this film because I wanted to offer fresh insights
into the lives and struggles some people face to adapt and gain settlement within a foreign country. I equally wanted others to realize that they can be faced with a life of hardship while trying to survive as an immigrant in a foreign land. Immigration is quite a universal topic always gracing the newspaper front pages, TV news headlines, and also in current affairs discussions,” he says. Mr. Chimuzinga is an upcoming filmmaker who has worked on various productions over the years. Some of his productions have been televised in the UK. Born in Zimbabwe, Mr. Chimuzinga came to the UK in 1999 for further studies. Both experienced and first time actors and actresses are featured in the movie. “They all did a fantastic job, were fun to work with and I cannot thank them enough,” Mr. Chimuzinga says. Being a low budget film, the producers met so many obstacles. “I had to get permission from various organizations and
TO THE END OF THE ROAD Contacts: Producer: 07503314413 Marketing: 07957446864 E-mail: gmcpictures@live.co.uk www.totheendoftheroad.com www.facebook.com/groups/totheendoftheroad www.twitter.com/GMCPicturesUK
authorities in matters such as acquiring and using props like police equipment and border force uniforms,” Mr. Chimuzinga says. “Locations were also difficult to obtain as most were very expensive and out of budget. Other locations were made available at times that were not convenient or ideal to fit in with the planned scenes. Sometimes I was short of manpower, and therefore had to multi-task in order to archive my targets and stay on schedule.” Mr. Chimuzinga however makes it clear that he never let the obstacles compromise the high standard and quality of this production. Lorraine Fox, the Producer of “To the End of the Road” who also stars in the movie is so excited about the final product. “It seemed impossible at times but God was always faithful,” she says. Ms. Fox is an emerging Zimbabwean star to watch out for. She has shown versatility and ability to execute the demands of any role, scene or genre. This young and passionate Movie Producer is the first Female Action Star to come out of Zimbabwe. Commenting on how she felt while playing Yolandra in “To the End of the Road”, Ms. Fox says: “It was one of the best experiences I have ever had working on a film. This movie has taught me everything I will ever need to progress in my acting career.”
She describes Mr. Tawanda, the Movie Director as “a very authentic person, one of the most creative directors I have ever worked with. He kept calm throughout the whole shoot and made everyone feel at ease” As the Producer of “To the End of the Road”, Ms. Fox says “I believed in this movie so much even when I was told no, I kept trying and after seeing the rough cut of the movie it was even more tremendously rewarding.” It is truly encouraging to see young Africans in the Diaspora invest their human and material resources in such an exceptional film. The best way of encouraging such creative people is by showing up at the premiere of the movie, at all the cinemas where the movie will be showing and by buying the DVD when it will be released. “To the End of the Road” will be premiered on 29th September 2012. The red carpet event will be held at Showcase Cinema in Coventry, from 18:00. Tickets which go for £15 can be obtained by calling any of the following numbers: Danai 07508 033404; Jackie - 07501 186831; Ashley - 07957 446864; and Lloyd - 07824 393629. Tickets can also be obtained by logging on to www.totheendoftheroad.com. “To the End of the Road” is released by GMC Pictures in Association with GRC Imagery. By Stephen Ogongo Ongong’a
Interview with movie Director Gibson Tawanda Chimuzinga
“To The End Of The Road” highlights problems immigrants face in UK
Why did you decide to shoot the movie “To The End Of The Road”?
our own Zimbabwe community.
There has been a lot of misrepresentation of England to the outside world. We wanted to highlight the problems immigrants face when they come to this country. It is also a high time we started something in
Sometimes life gets tough and one finds oneself at one’s wits end. This is a place of darkness with seemingly no light at the end of the tunnel. It will not be the end of the road, but sometimes it just seems as though it is. All the main characters in the
Why did you choose the title “To The End Of The Road”?
movie find themselves in situations that look like they have landed at the end of the road. In retrospect some of them come to the end of the road as far as the things they were pursuing are concerned, while others are more of myths. It’s part of the suspense the film throws in. This film highlights things that bring out the heroes in us. Yolandra (and indeed her family), finds herself in all the unimaginable difficulties and
strife. This leaves the audience guessing whether she or all the people around her have come to the end of the road. That heightened sense of nail biting suspense and intrigue, strings the audience along as they either vie for the hero or have ever growing loathe for the villain. It’s a film of two sides. The film is full of heart-warming action, contrasted by real love and affection. It’s a movie of
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COVER
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The title “To The End Of The Road” is deliberately vague. A title that leaves it open to the audience to deduce their own meaning from the story as a whole. It’s a movie that one has to watch to the end if one is to get any understanding. Is the movie based on a true life experience? The story was inspired by things that happened to me and the people around me after immigrating from Africa. For example my uncle only saw an officer from the Home Office and was deported. There’s a lot of talk about how great England is. They only show you the good side of England. I wanted to highlight the challenges that you face as an immigrant, I wanted to bring that to light and at the same time entertain the viewers, and give them the experience of their life. When and where was the movie shot?
“I believed in this movie so much even when I was told no, I kept trying and after seeing the rough cut of the movie it was even more tremendously rewarding” Ms. Lorraine Fox, The Producer of “To the End of the Road”
The movie was shot over a period of 12 months in London, Birmingham and Coventry. how a man (Dave) abuses his position to get sexual favours from a virtuous woman who is struggling to make both ends meet to get her leave to remain in the country. Dave (the villain), a man who has a good position at the Home Office is sur-
rounded by his thieving cahoots, a clear juxtaposition. He uses these two as his tools to boss people, especially ladies around and demand favours, mafia style. You either play or face the consequences. This is a story of unparalleled triumph.
Will “To The End Of The Road” be showing in cinemas throughout the UK?
What are the main challenges you encountered while preparing the movie?
We will be screening the movie in a few cities in the UK. The movie will also be in cinemas in a number of African countries.
As this was a low budget film, we struggled to attain a lot of locations we needed to shoot the movie.
By Stephen Ogongo Ongong’a
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THE GUIDE
MANUAL ON CHILD PROTECTION FOR AFRICAN PARENTS IN THE UK
Safeguarding Children: Whose Job Is It? Karl Menninger: “What is done to children, they will do to society” In this section, we will explore the safeguarding roles played by some of the key agencies and institutions who are involved in the lives of children. It is vital to build a strong partnership to safeguard children. It is the duty of all those around the child to ensure it is protected from harm and abuse. In particular, schools, faith organisations, parents and the government must work together to ensure that children are safe and secured.
parents and the school is of paramount importance. All schools have a strong obligation towards the children who attend (in loco parentis) and it is their duty to ensure children are kept safe from harm while in their care. However, parents need to ensure that they are always in close communication with the school to ensure their children’s needs are being met. Parents must act if they believe their children’s safety is being compromised in a school setting.
Parents
Bullying in Schools
The good intentions of parents are not enough to safeguard children from abuse and harm. They need to learn and make use of available information about child development and child safeguarding to improve their parenting skills and to provide their children with relevant support and experiences that will “enable them to have optimum life chances and enter adulthood successfully”. Many parents like to draw on their own experiences as children to determine how to bring up their own children. However, the changes in time as well as in the environment in which they find themselves mean that many adjustments have to be made in order to be effective parents to their children. It is really the duty of parents to ensure their children are safe and secured at home and that places where they take their children are suitable enough to guarantee their safety. There are two key places where most children in the African community attend regularly – the school and the place of worship.
Child-to-child bullying is a reality which can have a devastating impact on
©AFRUCA
SPECIAL UK LEGAL GUIDE
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many children. Newly arrived African children are particularly vulnerable to bullying for many reasons including their accents, names, and because they tend to excel academically even though they have only been in the country for a short while. Other children can suffer bullying because of disability or other forms of learning difficulties. Children like Damilola Taylor and Jude Akapa, two newly arrived children were subjected to bullying and ended up being Schools killed as a result. Parents must therefore never take the issue of bullying lightly After the home the school setting is but take immediate action if their chilwhere our children spend most of their dren disclose bullying. The first step is time. Therefore the school environment to talk to the school to ensure action is is quite vital in the development of our taken. Most schools do have a zero-tolechildren. In this regard a sincere, trans- rance of bullying, although some schoparent and close partnership between ols are not that effective in dealing with it. All disclosure by children must be documented by parents as evidence. If the school • It is the role of parents to ensure their chil- does not act to protect your dren are safe in the home and in other places child, you must report to the police or to children’s where children go services and not stop until • Schools have a statutory obligation to proaction is taken. tect the children in their care from abuse and Parents must encourage their children to talk harm • Faith organisations have a responsibility to if they are being bullied. ensure their practices do not harm your child. They must never keep bullying a secret. However, it They must put different Policies in place to is important that parents ensure children who attend are safeguarded. act when their children di• If you detect your child is being abused in a sclose bullying and abuse. The first step is to comfort school or a faith organization, you must and assure your child. It is report to the agency involved. If there is no not their fault they are beaction, you must contact Children’s Services ing bullied. Some parents • Agencies have a statutory duty to protect encourage their children to children. Your immigration status should not “fight back” if they are being bullied. However, the get in the way.
Key Points to Remember
child can end up being accused of bullying as well. Parents must seek immediate advice and support if their children are being bullied. There is a lot of material on the internet to inform parents on what to do. For example the website www.bullying. co.uk has a lot of guidance material for parents on bullying.
Staying Safe on the Internet Bullying is also not limited to physical abuse. There is a lot of bullying on social network sites like Facebook, Bebo, Myspace and Twitter. Mobile phones, especially those with cameras have become objects of bullying in many ways. Parents need to ensure their children know how to keep themselves safe when they are online. Note: For further information about how to protect your child against bullying, please visit www. bullying. co.uk
Faith Organisations Most Africans regularly attend a place of worship or another with their children. Children are expected to be involved in faith activities – for example by attending Sunday School or a Madrassah. It is the duty of all faith organisations to ensure their environments are safe places for the children who attend. It is also important for faith groups to ensure children who are abused elsewhere can have access to support and help when they do attend. Faith groups must ensure their practices do not lead to children being abused physically, emotionally, sexually nor lead to child neglect and harm. Faith workers, paid or voluntary must have a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) Disclosure to ensure they have not committed offences which make them unsuitable to work with children. All faith organisations must therefore ensure they have strong Child Protection Policies in place. This must be communicated to all those who attend.
AFRUCA’s Work with Faith Organisations in Yorkshire and Greater Manchester AFRUCA has been working very closely with African Pentecostal churches in greater Manchester and in Yorkshire to develop an Audit of their activities and carry out Risk Assessments of how these can have negative impacts on children. We are also working with them to find alternative ways of doing things so children are not harmed by developing Child Protection Policies and Procedures which are regularly monitored. As part of the Policies, churches and mosques must have stringent recruitment procedures in place. All those being employed to work in faith settings including volunteers must have a Criminal Records Bureau disclosure. References must be taken for all staff to ensure people can vouch for
their characters. The faith organisation must have a Child Protection Officer who co-ordinates all activities relating to Child Safeguarding and ensure faith practices do not affect children. It is vital that parents are aware of what their faith organisation is doing on child safeguarding or that parents can work with them to bring about changes, if there is nothing already in place.
What Must A Parent Do If He/She Suspects A Child Is Abused in School or A Place of Worship? If you suspect your child is being abused or has been abused, it is important to deal with it in a calm, caring manner so as not to upset the child further. You should talk to your child to gain as much information as possible, but children often keep their problems to themselves so you must be patient and always reassure the child that they did nothing wrong. Next you should contact the school or the faith organisation, speaking to the head teacher or faith leader or child protection officer to disclose the case. If possible, keep a diary of dates and events related to the issue. All schools have a duty to investigate accusations of abuse and follow procedures outlined by the local safeguarding children board. All faith groups must also have internal Child Protection Policies and Procedures which detail what must be done if abuse is disclosed. The authorities or children’s services must then be contacted and they would decide on the best way to investigate. Schools and faith groups should always be cooperative but if you find they are not, you should contact and report the issue to your local children’s services. You will find their numbers online via your local authority website. You must not give up or be discouraged by the failure to act. It is important for parents not to shy away from reporting suspicions of abuse. It is a very serious crime and other children could be at risk if the matter is not dealt with promptly. Your child can also be at risk of further abuse. Parents who do not have the right to be in the UK and whose children have suffered abuse must not be afraid of reporting to the authorities. Your child’s welfare is paramount and is not an immigration matter. Agencies have a statutory duty to act to protect your child and your immigration status should not get in the way. For more information about Child Protection in Faith Settings, you can also read our “Manual on Child Protection For African Faith Organisations in the UK” available from AFRUCA. An extract from “Manual On Child Protection For African Parents in the UK” by Africans Unite against Child Abuse (AFRUCA). To be continued in next edition.
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CARIBBEAN NEWS
Jamaica urges investment in wind energy As Jamaican Government continues to encourage investment in renewable sources of energy, private interests are being urged to consider wind energy as a lucrative area for investment. “We are trying to encourage private players, not just Government, to actually go into this as a business, because we believe that it is attractive enough for a company to make a return on their investment,” said Minister of State for Science, Technology, Energy and Mining (MSTEM), Julian Robinson. “The Government took the lead and established the Wigton
Wind Farm in Manchester, which is actually doing very well and provides significant power to the grid,” he said in an interview with JIS News. The Government is undertaking a wind mapping study to determine wind blowing patterns and the optimal sites for situating wind farms across the island. “For a company to come into Jamaica they need to determine the areas that are ideal for them to establish these sites, so the wind mapping study is something we have undertaken. It’s a critical component of our renewable energy strategy,” Mr. Robinson told JIS News. He noted that “not every loca-
Thwaites warns persons selling illegal credentials Jamaica’s Education Minister, Rev. Hon. Ronald Thwaites, has warned persons involved in providing fake educational credentials to immediately desist.
©JIS
Minister Thwaites’ warning follows a recent news report that Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) passes and fake degrees were being sold by persons engaged in an illegal operation.
Education Minister, Rev. Hon. Ronald Thwaites
Speaking in an interview with JIS News, the Education Minister said persons involved in this scam could face criminal sanctions. “I want to tell everybody that to do that is a futile exercise because it’s eventually going to be found out and there will be serious consequences, probably criminal ones, for those who do it and those who receive it and try to pass them off,” Mr. Thwaites said. The Minister also encouraged persons thinking of involving themselves with the scam to channel their energies and resources in obtaining legitimate certification. “So, let us use the same energy and ingenuity and money that we deploy and try to falsify things to do them right the first time and to study hard and get the certification and pick yourself up if you didn’t manage the first time,” Mr. Thwaites said. By Latonya Linton, JIS News
tion that is windy or has a strong gust of wind is suitable, and if the flow is inconsistent, then the output from the (wind) turbine is inconsistent, and it affects the grid’s stability and its delivery.” Investment in wind energy is in keeping with the National Energy Policy, which seeks to provide the framework for the sustainable development and management of viable renewable energy resources to reduce the country’s dependence on imported oil for fuel. Last year over $191 billion was spent importing oil for the country’s energy needs. Using wind turbines for the generation of electricity enhances the country’s drive for clean ener-
gy. It also reduces the emissions from burning traditional fuels and lowers the country’s carbon output. Renewable energy is expected to represent some 20 per cent
©JIS
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of the country’s energy mix by 2030. By Rodger Hutchinson, JIS News
Business benefits from London will take time to unfold - Bennett-Templer Jamaicans are being urged to be patient as the business benefits from the country’s participation in the Jamaica House promotions in London, during the recent Summer Olympics, will take some time to unfold. President of Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), Sancia BennettTempler, said that while there will be “some new developments in the area of animations for Jamaica very, very shortly,” it may take up to a year for the country to realise the business benefits gained from the event. “People don’t just talk to you today and sign a contract tomorrow. It usually takes a bit of time, they would want to come in and do their due diligence,” Mrs. Bennett-Templer said. Noting that there are several opportunities that JAMPRO is
pursuing, Mrs. Bennett Templer, said she was unable to name the companies due to issues of confidentiality. She explained however, that there are distinct opportunities coming out of discussions involving the creative industries. The JAMPRO President also pointed out that her organisation will be working to see how best opportunities can be developed in sports. “The business of sport is an area that we are going to have to spend a lot of time on going forward. Not only how do we develop a sport marketing strategy for Jamaica leveraging the lessons learnt from this Jamaica House event in London, but also direct business opportunities in terms of infrastructure developments, attractions and so on. So we will be working very closely with the Ministry to look at how we can develop those opportunities,” Mrs. Bennett-Templer said. One of the events hosted at
Jamaica House 2012 in London was a ‘Business of Sports Forum’ on Sunday August 12. The event saw Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Anthony Hylton, and Minister with Responsibility for Sports, Hon. Natalie NeitaHeadley, engaging with a panel of sports experts and former Olympian and BBC Analyst, Colin Jackson. The JAMPRO head also noted that Jamaica was able to connect with the Diaspora through a trade and investment business forum. She pointed out that the Diaspora was an important source in terms of trade and the purchasing and distribution of Jamaican goods, especially over the last year when many of the business opportunities either came through them or through companies wanting to target them. By Andrea Braham, JIS News
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AFRICAN NEWS
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Stop further executions, Pillay urges Gambia After 27 years without any official executions in the Gambia, nine death row inmates were killed by firing squad on 26th August 2012. Ms. Pillay described the executions as an unfortunate setback for human rights protection in the country. “The Gambia has, for almost three decades, been one of the increasing number of states that did not practice capital punishment – until this sudden, grave, unfortunate change of course,” Ms. Pillay said. “The confusion and lack of transparency for several days over whether the executions actually took place, and accompanying uncertainty about the identity of those executed, is unacceptable, particularly for the family members of those killed. Secretly executing individuals without informing their families amounts to inhuman treatment.” President Yahya Jammeh said all remaining death sentences would be carried out by midSeptember. Ms. Pillay said President
“The confusion and lack of transparency for several days over whether the executions actually took place, and accompanying uncertainty about the identity of those executed, is unacceptable, particularly for the family members of those killed. Secretly executing individuals without informing their families amounts to inhuman treatment”
UN Photo/Jean-Marc Ferré
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay is “deeply disturbed” by recent executions in the Gamba.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay Jammeh’s statement “is extremely worrying, and raises serious questions about the motivation behind the sudden rush to execute.” She also condemned a further statement by the Ministry of the Interior, which sought to justify the Gambia’s change of policy, saying it “is seriously misguided.” “I urgently call on the President and relevant authorities
in the Gambia to heed all the international, regional and local calls on the Government not to carry out further executions,” Ms. Pillay said. She also noted that major concerns have been raised about the fairness of the trials of some of those who have been sentenced to death. Ms. Pillay warned that international law, including the International Covenant on Civil
and Political Rights, which the Gambia has ratified, requires compliance with the most rigorous fair trial standards in cases where death sentences are imposed. She also noted that in 2010 the Gambia reaffirmed its moratorium on the death penalty when it reported to the Human Rights Council for its Universal Periodic Review, and as recently as April 2011 officially abolished the death penalty for drug offences,
in accordance with international standards. “I urge the Gambia to immediately stem this regression in human rights protection, and to impose an official moratorium, effective immediately, on the use of the death penalty,” Ms. Pillay said. “The moratorium that was in place for the past quarter of a century was something the country could be proud of, and was respected for.”
Kibaki calls for peaceful general elections in Kenya Kenya’s President Mwai Kibaki has urged Kenyans to be peaceful and respect the rule of law ahead of the historic 2013 general elections.
Addressing the National Conference on Peaceful Elections in Nairobi, President Kibaki emphasized that a peaceful and just election and smooth transition will send out a clear message that Kenya is the democratic and economic beacon of the region. The peace conference brought together Kenyans from all corners and sectors of the country to deliberate on how to ensure that Kenya remains peaceful before, during and after the forthcoming elections. President Kibaki called on political leaders and their supporters to play a leading role in facilitating the conduct of free, fair and peaceful elections. He encouraged them to preach peace and to conduct themselves in a manner that promotes unity in the country. President Kibaki said it was disheartening that in the last few weeks several Kenyans have lost their lives in inter-communal skirmishes. He stressed that while the government does its part in the maintenance of law and order, leaders must speak to people at the grassroots on the need for peaceful coexistence.
President Mwai Kibaki says leaders who incite communities to fight their neighbours must have no place in the modern Kenya Those who incite communities to fight their neighbours must have no place in the modern Kenya, he said. President Kibaki advised all Kenyans to guard against reckless utterances and actions that could compromise the keeping
of the peace in the country. At the same time, President Kibaki appealed to the media to be responsible and impartial in their reporting, saying that the country is looking up to them for information on important national issues regarding the election. He called for accurate, objective and balanced reporting by media houses before, during and after the general elections. President Kibaki disclosed that the government will use the education sector as an important avenue for the promotion of a culture of peace among Kenyans. He underscored that schools, colleges and universities are suitable forums where personal and national identities, values, ideas and ideologies are formed. President Kibaki pointed out that through the Ministry of Education, the government initiated the Peace Education Programme which strives to enable people to take personal responsibility for promoting peace by adopting non-violent means for resolving conflicts. He said that the peace campaign will use a Peace Torch to symbolize unity of all Kenyans, adding that through a relay from one county to the other, the Peace Torch will spread the message of peace, respect, friendship and unity. President Kibaki launched the Peace
Torch as an expression of the country’s desire to bequeath the present generation and generations to come, a legacy of peace and prosperity. He said that the government has facilitated the establishment of institutions and created other mechanisms for promoting democracy in the country and creating avenues for economic prosperity and social cohesion. President Kibaki cited the creation of several specialized commissions including the Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission, the National Cohesion and Integration Commission and the Commission on Administrative Justice as some of the measures the government has taken. In addition, President Kibaki said the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (I.E.B.C.) which is now fully operational, holds an important place in the electoral process as it is the body that will plan and manage the forthcoming elections. He said the government fully supports the work of the I.E.B.C. and will ensure that it has the necessary resources to conduct a free and fair election. President Kibaki expressed satisfaction that the judiciary has begun putting in place mechanisms to deal with electoral offences and disputes.
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ENTERTAINMENT
Highlife Roots Revival
Koo Nimo’s new LP revives beautiful roots of highlife Koo Nimo, one of the last true veterans of highlife roots and palm-wine music has released a new LP titled “Highlife Roots Revival”.
Highlife roots and palm-wine music dominated Ghana’s popular music scene throughout much of the twentieth century. The album features acoustic guitars and rolling percussion all topped off with Nimo’s gentle story-teller singing style. Palm-wine’s stance as an early roots version of highlife is historically important and musically fascinating. By delving deep into Nimo’s narrative style you can trace out the link to the melodious strains of Prince Nico Mbarga and, subsequently, the heady didactic Afrobeat of Fela Kuti, and even further to the current-day exponents of the highlife hip-hop fusion, hip-life. Nimo’s music effortlessly revives the beautiful roots of highlife once more. Nimo was born in 1934 in the Ashanti region of Ghana. By his early twenties, and by the time Ghana had achieved independence (1957), he was well respected across the nation for his gentle acoustic approach and versatile skill. During the 1960s he studied science in London and schooled himself in several diverse musical styles, including Western classical music and flamenco guitar technique. He is also a keen jazz fan and holds a deep respect for the music of American pianist Thelonious Monk. Though well versed in multiple genres, Nimo’s own music remains firmly in classic palm-wine style. Ensuring the continuation of tradition is a sentiment he holds dear, and one he instils in his music.
“Old Man Plants A Coconut Tree” is an ode to the virtues of preserving tradition – the lyrics intone: “Grandson, I know I won’t live to see the fruits of my labour. Because of you, and children yet unborn, I am planting the coconut tree.” Now approaching his eighties, the music on this album showcases Nimo’s relaxed style, and is his first recording with a large ensemble. The line-up here includes guitars, seprewa, traditional drums, percussion and an accompanying vocal group. On the track “Medley: Anansi Song Story/Bear, What Is the Matter With You?/Hornbill”, you can hear the full ensemble in rich polyphony. Other tracks draw on varying traditional influences, such as the “Adowa Palm-Wine Set” based on Adowa rhythms. Or “Praise Song For Otumfuo Osei Tutu 2nd”, a song composed for a court occasion that praises the first Ashanti King Osei Tutu and the Asantehene, the present King. Whilst listening to “Highlife Roots Revival”, you might be surprised to hear the faint crowing of a rooster or the distant murmur of a child’s voice bubbling underneath the guitars. But rest assured: it is no accident that these sounds were left in the mix; they were captured during a series of recording sessions, which took place in Nimo’s courtyard at home in Accra, Ghana. Adding a wonderful sense of intimacy to the album, these interjections underline
the ethos of palm-wine music perfectly. This is, after all, a musical style named after the strong alcoholic drink imbibed at outdoor acoustic sessions, where musicians swapped their songs beneath the starlit sky and where palm-wine music was
born. Join Koo Nimo in the spirit of palmwine; kick back, tap your foot and listen to the stories unfold. The LP has been released by World Music Network.
©Nollywoodgossip
Stephanie Chijioke denies building expensive mansion Nollywood actress Stephanie Chijioke has denied rumours that she is currently building a N100m mansion in Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
The reports also claimed that the Igbo born screen diva spent a whopping N40m on cars. The reports rounded up by saying that it was one Bayelsa big boy who was shedding the cash for all those acquisitions. In an interview with Ifunanya Onuzulike of Nollywoodgossip, Stephanie who is based in Dubai denied all the rumours. Asked to react to the news that she’s building a N100m mansion, the Nigerian actress said: “I was shocked to hear that. In fact, I’m still in shock.” She added: “It’s not true. Not at all!”
Stephanie seemed surprised to learn that she was spending N44m on vehicles. “44 million on cars…wow!” she said, adding that none of the rumours is true. The Nollywood actress however failed to comment on reports that a Bayelsa big boy was behind the cash splash. She only smiled but neither admitted nor denied the report. Stephanie initially didn’t see the rumours “as a big thing,” and thought they were funny. She was however later surprised that they escalated with time. She confirmed that she is still into acting. Stephanie, who sometime back lost her sister, said: “Her death is something that still bothers me a lot. I wish she was alive. I miss her so much. She was my best friend, my confidant, my hero, and my strength.” Last year she told Nollywoodgossip that she can never act nude. In a message to her fans, Stephanie said: “I love them dearly. I wish to be of help to those who need assistance. I know God will
grant that very soon. I thank them for being there for me.” By Nollywoodgossip
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ENTERTAINMENT
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Offender
Explosive youth crime thriller out in cinemas “Offender”, a new explosive youth crime thriller is out in cinemas nationwide to coincide with the anniversary of the London riots.
The film released by Revolver Entertainment, the award-winning independent film distribution company, is based around the London riots. This hard-hitting film is a
journey through today’s youth and justice system. “Offender” marks director Ron Scalpello feature film debut from an original screenplay by Paul Van Carter (Shank, Anuvahood). The film stars Joe Cole (Skins and Ol Parker’s Now Is Good) in the lead as Tommy, a young man forced to set up his own incarceration to exact revenge on the violent gang who brutally
Joe Cole and Kimberley Nixon
attacked his girlfriend and their unborn child. Kimberley Nixon (Hunky Dory, Wild Child, Angus Thongs & P e r f e c t Snogging) costars, alongside Shaun Dooley (The Woman in Black, Red Riding), Ruth G e m m e l l (Storage 24, Fever Pitch), celebrated rapper English Frank, newcomers Tyson Oba, Daniel Kendrick (Love Bites, Ghosted), Malachi Kirby and grime artists G Frsh and Scorcher. Running in the same vein as great prison dramas such as Alan Clarke’s iconic “Scum” or Jacques Audiard’s “A Prophet”, the new film’s commitment to dramatic authenticity promises to deliver an emotional and hardhitting portrayal of one man’s quest for retribution.
Produced by Nick Taussig and Paul Van Carter, and executive produced by Justin Marciano, Rhy David Thomas and Stephen Mitchell, “Offender” was scripted by Paul Van Carter with the collaboration and consultation of Cyle Carth, who spent much of his youth in and out of Feltham, the UK’s most notorious young offender’s institution.
“Offender” is produced with the support of the UK charity Carney’s Community. A portion of the net profits from the film will be donated to the charity. Carney’s Community works to help troubled youngsters get involved in the filmmaking process and into training and education, to keep them away from a life of crime.
SKD releases new video London based artist Soundknockdown aka SKD has released his fifth music video “What’s my Name” from his upcoming album “Passion Beyond Reason”. All his previously released videos have received great response. SKD’s album is made up of hip hop, Rap & R’n’b records. He scored his first major success with the song “Hold On To Your Dreams” which was featured in local, national and international print, radio and TV stations across the world. SKD is currently in the studio
recording his second album specifically made up of Afro pop music which will be released later this year. Fast gaining the reputation as a great artist SKD is definitely an entertainer to follow and enjoy his work.
SKD’S LINKS Twitter https://twitter.com/#!/ SoundKnockDown Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ soundknockdown
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
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No. 11. September 2012 www.theafronews.eu
Tel. 0207 300 7320 Email: afronews@myownmedia.co.uk
BUSINESS Q&A COLUMN
Krystle & Pauline Corner
©Selma90
Questions to ask yourself before starting new business
Dear Krystle and Pauline, I would love to start my own business making and selling cupcakes. I have always loved baking and have recently been made redundant from my job as a teaching assistant. Although I love working with kids, I would love to explore the creative side of my talents. I have some savings but I need this to live on while I decide what direction I want to go in. I would be grateful for any advice as I feel that at 29, time is running out. Gemma Dear Gemma, Thank you for writing in, as your letter reflects the current economic climate.
There are a lot of people in their late twenties upwards, who are being made redundant from jobs which were traditionally secure, safe positions. This age bracket is also the target area when people reflect on their lives and careers and consider other options and opportunities. Ten years ago at 29, we would have said you had plenty of time to make your mark, but not now. Now we would advise you to do as much as you can while you are fit, healthy, motivated and hungry for success. The baking industry has recently become very saturated with cupcake makers, as everyone and their daughters seek to cash in on their fun hobby. You will commonly see these opportunists at schools fetes, farmers markets and other fairs. There are also many small boutique bakeries opening in Yummy Mummy areas, but we do wonder how sustainable new cupcake start-ups are in today’s cutthroat market. There are a few bakeries that have a franchise of stores, which makes financial sense as they can buy produce in bulk. For this reason they may be able to with-
stand the tough climate. For a fresh starter your local area and establish whether like yourself, we would ask the following: there’s a market, as the closer to home Do you have any experience in the cater- your clientele is, the more convenient and ing industry? Have you researched any of cost effective it will be. Research new and the food health and safety regulations or innovative flavours and don’t be afraid to certifications that you need to be able to experiment, as this could be the USP that sell food to the public? And the biggest sets you apart from your competition. one of all is, what is your USP or unique Research any affordable fairs or festivals, selling point, which puts you ahead of and always carry business cards with you your competitors? wherever you go. Good luck! As you are 29, you’re just under the age cap and able to approach the Princes By Krystle and Pauline Downie Trust, as they provide help to people who ABOUT KRYSTLE & PAULINE DOWNIE want to start their own business within the Krystle and Pauline Downie run It’s My Magazine, a age of 19-30. personalised album for your event, presented in the R a c h a e l style of a glossy magazine, and Kadence Bluu, Hair Founder of Integration Solutions for women experiencing hair Zany Cakes has the following loss. advice. Start To submit your own business related question, e-mail small, baking getinvolved@kadencebluu.com quoting “The from home, AfroNews business question” within the subject box. thereby keeping Follow Krystle and Pauline Downie on Twitter: @ your overheads KrystleDownie low. Check out
How to keep work-life balance Dear Krystle and Pauline, I’ve just started my own business, which I’m really excited about. However, due to financial constraints (i.e. mortgage repayments) I’m struggling to combine it with full time employment. It’s starting to get too much, I feel like I’m constantly stuck behind a computer screen and my relationship is floundering. How can I make time for everything? Justin First step, breathe! Starting a new business can be overwhelming at the best of times, as you get to grips with all the components. However, achieving a successful home/work life balance is vital in order for you to stick at this for the long-term, and eventually enable you to give up your current employment. To best help you, we’ve enlisted the help of Life coach Patricia Campbell, who advises: “Managing time effectively is necessary for productivity. Organisation is your greatest ally in your efforts to juggle the roles of entrepreneur, employee, husband,
etc. “Keeping to-do lists with clear actionable items will also help you to reach your goals and get things done. Ensure you set firm start and end times, sticking to your pre-established rota and finishing at a respectable hour which will allow you to enjoy some relaxing winding-down time with your partner. With only 24 hours in a day, there will always be demands on your time; you will have to learn to prioritise more effectively to ensure you can achieve your goals whilst not allowing life to pass you by.” By Krystle and Pauline Downie
Tel. 0207 300 7320 Email: afronews@myownmedia.co.uk
LIFESTYLE & RELIGION
No. 11. September 2012 www.theafronews.eu
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People in the UK are not willing to give potential employers their Facebook passwords, a new survey has revealed.
At least 91% of those asked ‘Would you give your Facebook password to a potential employer’ said no, in a survey conducted by Real Time Market Research Company, Usurv, on behalf of Barker Ross. Some employers in the USA have started to ask for Facebook passwords so they can learn more about job candidates and there is some evidence that the practice might be exported to the UK. But this survey commissioned by multi-sector recruiter Barker Ross, shows that the idea will not be welcomed. Some US states have passed legislation making it illegal for employers to ask job applicants for passwords to their online profiles. Tim Sutcliffe, director of Barker Ross said: “One of the ways that employers can
get information about candidates is via social media, but I am not surprised people want to keep their Facebook pages private. You wouldn’t expect to give employer the keys to your house so he can look through you photo albums. “If people can do a job and are well qualified, they shouldn’t be professionally assessed by employers looking at their holiday photos. I think business focused social media such as LinkedIn allows people to present their business experience and qualifications and as recruiters that’s what we need to know.” Mr. Sutcliffe added: “We all know that current and potential employers could use social media to find out more about us. This is why we set privacy settings accordingly on our Facebook sites where we communicate with our close friends and are more careful about how we use more publicly accessible social media such as Twitter.” Interestingly more men than women would give up their Facebook password,
©Knight Foundation
91% say ‘no’ to giving up Facebook password to employers
with 94.5% of women refusing, but only 87.5% of men saying ‘no’. The survey also indicated that the more educated the candidate the more likely
Checking your blood pressure could save your life Around half of people worldwide are unaware that they have Hypertension (high blood pressure).
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), high blood pressure causes up to a quarter of all deaths worldwide and affects around one in three people. That’s over 16 million people in the UK, and 50 million people in the USA. The creators of the Hypnotension programme are urging people to get their blood pressure checked as part of the Blood Pressure Association’s annual ‘Know Your Numbers’ awareness week (12th to 18th September 2012). High Blood Pressure is known as ‘The Silent Killer’ because it is often symptomless and people often don’t realise they have it until it is too late.
Hypnotension cocreator, Rob Woodgate said: “Knowing your blood pressure figures is as important as knowing your weight, and catching a rising blood pressure trend early could save your life.” He added: “Over 90% of cases of Hypertension have no underlying medical cause, and can be prevented and even reversed with a few simple lifestyle changes.” Clinical guidelines define a blood pressure reading consistently around 115/75 as ‘ideal’, and hypertension is a blood pressure reading consistently higher than 140/90mmHg.
“Knowing your blood pressure figures is as important as knowing your weight, and catching a rising blood pressure trend early could save your life. Over 90% of cases of Hypertension have no underlying medical cause, and can be prevented and even reversed with a few simple lifestyle changes” Rob Woodgate, Hypnotension co-creator
they were to reveal their password, with 92% of A level standard people saying no, with only 79% of people with higher degrees saying no.
Leading Pentecostal Church launches book about its history in UK A new book has launched telling in an authoritative manner the history of the black Pentecostal Church movement in the UK.
According to WHO statistics, high blood pressure causes 62% of strokes and 48% of heart disease. The Hypnotension Programme looks at a variety of lifestyle factors to establish which is likely to be causing or maintaining high blood pressure. These lifestyle factors are then targeted using specific cognitive and hypnotherapeutic techniques to help reduce the client’s blood pressure towards more normal levels. There is a network of specially trained Hypnotension practitioners all over the UK who can help you make the lifestyle changes which could help save your life.
“From an Acorn to an Oak Tree: the History of the New Testament Assembly” by Richard Reddie tells the history of the New Testament Assembly (NTA), a church representative of the Pentecostal Movement anchored in Britain’s Caribbean community. This book is carefully crafted from the backdrop of the work and accomplishments of the joint founders of the organisation, the late Bishop Melvin L. Powell and the late Bishop Donald E. Bernard, and epitomises the growth and development of NTA through its many milestones. Written with the full cooperation of the NTA leadership, this book explores how the Jamaican Christians, who travelled to Britain as part of the second wave of Caribbean migration to the Mother Country, planted this church in Britain over 50 years ago. The author has captured the very heart of the organisation, and with the aid of photographs he has depicted the many milestones of the NTA over the past
50 years. The International President Bishop The Rt. Revd Hugh Thomas said the book “holds high imaginary intrigue that sends the adrenaline pumping to begin the journey. This is a work that has been long overdue for the New Testament Assembly - UK. The author has effectively captured the spirit of the founders and forward movement of this progressive Organisation.” Bishop Dr. Joe Aldred added: “The value of documenting for posterity the history of a people cannot be overstated. When these are the people who have contributed indispensably to the development of the Black Church Movement in Britain, a book dedicated to telling their story immediately falls into the ‘indispensable’ category of literary works.” The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Dr. John Sentumu Archbishop of York, in the Foreword reflected: “In my early years in the UK I saw how the work of the New Testament Assembly was able to offer an invaluable spiritual, emotional, and social service to recently arrived Caribbean migrants in a way that the traditional churches simply were not gifted, equipped, or prepared to offer......”
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