Social|Economical|Political Minded Leaders
CIRCLE OF CONCERN Issue 007
October 2014
MAGAZINE
Is Africa stepping up to the information AGE? Generations on Zuma The forgotten transport infrastructure of NonMotorized Transport 6 Facts about Ebola R19.50
ISSN 2310-8827
From environmental science to environmental sense
10 D
igits
CONTENTS
OCTOBER 2014
4
Editorial Notes Your success is the product of your thinking Old mutual finance 6 Facts about Ebola The forgotten transport infrastructure of Non-Motorized Transport. Is Africa stepping up to the information age? 5 Ways of spotting a control freak Street talk From environmental science to environmental sense Generations on Zuma Agriculture and the economy Mzilo fulfilling his passion
5 6 10 15 17 20 22 25 26 28 32 34
COVER With Managing ARTICLEEditor
OCTOBER 2014
Editor's Note Komane Golden
What if tomorrow does not come? Throughout my life I was taught that tomorrow has no assurance then I must stop depending on it. As human beings we are often comfortable with being under the sun and with no intention of reshaping the world. Everyone is a good dreamer because dreaming is an easy thing to do. We dream, dream, dream and cover our destinations and dreams with the word “Tomorrow”. You promised yourself that you want to take your business to another level then why tomorrow is the right day for you. I do not see any reason of saying tomorrow will be my day. What you have been doing is the contradiction of human nature. Yet you talk about days of the week and you even name them. If tomorrow is the big deal , why isn’t labeled as one of the days of the week? Let’s face the truth, tomorrow philosophy doesn’t work for you and it did not work for our forefathers. Stop procrastinating and start cultivating. What if tomorrow doesn’t come, who are you going to blame for not living your dreams.
The Team EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Komane Golden | golden@circleofconcern.co.za
JUNIOR EDITOR
Molebogeng Mashobane | lebo@circleofconcern.co.za
FINANCE EDITOR
Kulani Mhlanga | Kulani@circleofconcern.co.za
COPY EDITOR
Marvin Malaka | m.malaka@circleofconcern.co.za
EDUCATION AND SOCIAL EDITOR
Harold Ncongwane | harold@circleofconcern.co.za
WRITERS
Ofentse Maluleka Andrew Sako Michelle Nchabeleng Lebogang Mabotha Thulani Masilela
SUBSCRIBTION
Sako Andrew | andrew@circleofconcern.co.za | 071 328 7107
ADVERTISING
Golden Komane | golden@circleofconcern.co.za | 071 328 7107
PUBLISHER
Circle of Concern Magazine
Opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of this magazine, its editor or its publishers. The mention of specific products in articles or advertisements does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by Circle of Concern Magazine or its publishers in presence to others of a similar nature, which are not mentioned or advertised. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy of editorial content, the publishers do not accept responsibility for omissions, errors or any consequences that may arise therefrom. Reliance on any information contained in this publication is at your own risk. The publishers make no representations or warranties, express or implied, as to the correctness or suitability of the information contained and/ or the products advertised in this publication. The publisher shall not be held liable for any damages or loss arising , incurred by readers of this publication or any/ other person/s. The publisher disclaim all responsibility and liability for any damages, including pure economic loss and any damages, resulting from the use of any service or product advertised in this publication. Readers of this publication indemnify and hold harmless the publishers of this magazine, its employees and servants for any demand, action, application or other proceedings made by any third party and arising out of or in connection with the use of any services and/or products or the reliance of any information contained in this publication.
Pictures in the magazine: Graphic Stock
COVER ARTICLE
OCTOBER 2014
YOUR Success is the product of YOUR Thinking By Harold Ncongwane Many of us are often confronted by situations in which we are labeled by others, this could vary from being called a nerd, computer gig or a slow learner. We spend most of our lives living up to the expectations of others and their labelswe fulfill their prophecy. As much as this might have an impact on our lives but at some level we also choose whether to reject or attach these labels to ourselves. In this month’s edition we focus on how your thoughts can play a role in how you define yourself- You are what you think. We as individuals often think we are not good enough to conquer and become successful. The unfortunate part is that in most cases we become the product of our thinking.
“If you think you can do a thing or think you can’t do a thing, you’re right.” – Henry Ford
COVER ARTICLE
OCTOBER 2014
A mirror situation ●
Imagine what happens how you look like when you get up and look at the mirror, you probably say to yourself “my hair looks dirty or my face looks very dry” and you probably feel like you could take a bath. Think about the manner, the body language and gesture that you use when you go to the bathroom…, chances are you look down on yourself (that’s if you like personal hygiene). However, think about what happens after taking a bath you, chances are that you walk with self-confidenceyour shoulders being high. This is what happens in our mind when we think low or highly of ourselves.
COVER ARTICLE
OCTOBER 2014
A mind of an athlete:
Gallery M-2004
We can all learn something from professional athletes, When the race starts it looks like the finish line is impossible and hard to reach, as you keep pushing you realize that it might be possible to reach the finish line, but as you move further with the race your body start aching, muscles starts to become overly stretched and painful, so you feel like it’s impossible again. However, a professional athlete understands that IT IS ALL IN THE MIND, so if he thinks he will not finish the race, then chances are that he or she won’t finish the race. On the contrary if he or she think he reach that finish line, he or she will be more inspired and motivated to reach the finish line !! Stop holding back and aim to reach the finish line.
Accident situation Here is an another example, it is expected that before an individual has a car crash accident, the person may have already assumed that they are dead (this happens in a split second before the actual crash), the person would then leave the steering wheel and accept that they are DEAD. So it started in their mind, they decided this long before the moment of crashing. This is the power of the mind, Imagine what would happen if they decided to steer the wheel instead? Your thinking determines how you hold yourself towards others, e.g. if you think you are smart then you will probably appear to others as being confident or even arrogant, on the other hand if you think you are not capable of being a professional then you will probably won’t invest much on your education or empowerment and definitely you won’t be good enough.
Taxi situation there are many ways in which we can determine our success and one of them is by our thoughts. Think about what happens when you seat in a front seat of taxi and think you won’t be able to calculate the total money of all passengers. Chances are that you going to make a lot of miscalculations. It is not about calculating but it comes from the idea that you told yourself that you are not good in numbers before you actually did the calculations and you started worrying about and probably lost concentration. These are called selfdefeating thoughts because you are thinking against what you might truly offer.
harold@circleofconcern.co.za
COVER ARTICLE
OCTOBER 2014
5 ways in which you could change this self-sabotage to change a negative thinking 1. Track negative thoughts
Look for signs and situations that you feel or think you won’t be able to make it or perform a certain task. You can look for such thoughts when things go wrong and check if they are worth entertaining.
3. Appreciate your strengths and work on workable weakness We all know that everyone has both strengths and weakness, however we should always acknowledge what we are good at and what we can always improve. More emphasis should be put on things that you are good at and things you can control. It is often not going to help that you worry about things you can control
2. Evaluate and test them (are they real)
You need to questions and test the reality of these negative thoughts about yourself, if you think you are not good enough, is it true and according to who? Sometimes we might have misconceptions about ourselves which can hinder us from becoming the best we can be
4. Be yourself and remember what you think matters No one can be like you, remain true to yourself and never compare your progress with those of others.
5. Surround yourself with positive people People with a positive attitude and focus are the ones that you should surround yourself with. Their sense of optimism, positive thinking and focus will rub on you. Be around people who will empower you and inspire you to become true to yourself. These individuals will be honest with you and guide you when you are struggling with personal challenges
Old mutual finance Temba city branch If you have more than one loan then you paying too much!!! Let me start by saying not all debts are bad. Lets say you acquiring a loan to buy a house that’s investment and we call it a good debt or taking a loan to pay for kids school fees that’s also good. At old mutual finale we help you make the right choices Speak to our financial consultants at our branch to plan your financial shape today. Old mutual is introducing a plan to make sure you don't pay too much and the plan is called my money plan . since its your money plan we gonna sit down with you and discuss your financial challenges and have a plan in place to make sure you are financially independent and happy. We will settle your debt on your behalf , save you money because you from that date you gonna have one installment and you will be paying a fixed interest rate and also saving you stress. We will help you plan ahead with regard to finances to give you financial stability. With my money plan you will get a monthly cash support on selected dates to make sure you never run out of cash and you able to survive through out the month. You will also get a per-approved cash yearly on selected dates. And because value our clients we reward our good paying clients with a cash back bonus just to say thank you. You will also get a death, disability and retrenchment cover.
Settle your debt Apply for a personal loan And discuss your financial situation
Come and speak to us to Branch manager: Micheal Tau Contact number: Financial consultant: Rocky Mthimunye Contact Numbers : 0747470600 Financial consultant: Salome Mosetla Contact number : 0717746163 Financial consultant: Nthabeleng Phiri Contact number : 0712463992 Financial consultant : Lerato Nkosi Contact number: 0724779921
MOTIVATION
OCTOBER 2014
Be Phenomenal
Be Yourself!
Be POWER!
Grind, Grind and keep on Grinding
PHOTOGRAPHY
OCTOBER 2014
HEALTH & WEALTH
OCTOBER 2014
FACTS: ONLY
6 Facts About: Ebola EBOLA IS REAL.
FACT 1 Ebola outbreaks commonly occur in Central and West Africa. Ebola was first noticed in 1976 during instantaneous outbreaks that occurred in Nzara, Sudan, and Yambuku in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The virus received its name from the Ebola River found in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In the past 38 years, major outbreaks of the virus happened 6 times in the Democratic Republic of Congo, 3 times in South Sudan, 4 times in Gabon, Uganda, and the Republic of Congo, and once in Cote d’Ivoire and South Africa, according to reports. The recent 2014 Ebola outbreaks are also in West African countries. World Health Organisation (WHO) reported 4,963 cases of Ebola as of September 16, 2014.
EVD outbreaks have a case fatality rate of up to 90%.
EVD outbreaks occur primarily in remote villages in Central and West Africa, near tropical rainforests.
Circle of Concern Magazine
Ebola is a severe, often fatal illness in humans.
FACT 2 Ebola cases have also occurred in countries outside Africa, including the Philippines. One case of human Ebola virus infection was recorded in the UK in 1976 after a laboratory accident. In 1989, 1990, and 1996, the virus was detected in primate facilities in the Philippines that exported monkeys all over the globe, leading to 3 cases of viral infection among humans. In the same three years, monkeys exported from said facilities introduced the virus in the USA, causing 4 cases of human infection. Imported Philippine monkeys also introduced the virus in Sienna, Italy, in 1992. In 2008 to 2009, the virus was detected once again in the Philippines, this time among domesticated pigs – the first known occurrence of the virus among such animals. Six workers in a farm where infected pigs were kept developed antibodies, and did not fall sick. No fatalities due to Ebola viral infection have been recorded yet outside Africa. Page 7
HEALTH & WEALTH
OCTOBER 2014
FACT 3 As of July, this year's outbreak is the worst so far (in terms of the number of cases reported). In contrast, the second worst outbreak, the 2000 outbreak in Uganda, had around 425 cases with 224 deaths. The first Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1976 had 318 cases and 280 deaths.
FACT 4 There are 5 species of Ebola virus. These species are: Bundibugyo Ebolavirus (BDBV), Zaire Ebolavirus (EBOV), Reston Ebolavirus, (RESTV), Sudan ebolavirus (SUDV), and Tai Forest Ebolavirus. (TAFV) The World Health Organization (WHO) and the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that RESTV has so far caused Ebola Virus Disease only among nonhuman primates (i.e. chimpanzees, gorillas) and pigs. The rest are known to have caused diseases in human beings. In fact, BDBV, EBOV, and SUDV are the culprits behind large Ebola outbreaks..
FACT 5 Ebola outbreaks commonly occur in Central and West Africa. According to the WHO, fruit bats are the most common hosts of the virus. Other animals commonly infected with the virus are nonhuman primates, monkeys, forest antelopes, and porcupines. Circle of Concern Magazine
It is theorized that large Ebola outbreaks occur often in West and Central Africa due to the locals' practice of hunting and eating meat from wild animals often infected with the virus People can also be indirectly infected via exposure to objects or areas that have been contaminated with the bodily fluids of the infected, like used syringe needles or improperly sterilized medical instruments used during an outbreak. Even those who have recovered from Ebola Virus Disease can still transmit the virus. According to the WHO, there have been cases where men who have recovered from the disease can still transmit the virus through their semen for up to seven weeks.
FACT 6 There's no cure yet to combat Ebola Virus Disease. There are no licensed cures, vaccines or treatments yet to directly combat Ebola Virus Disease. In the history of the virus' outbreaks, the disease kills around 25% to 90% of the total number of infected individuals. Diagnosis of the virus via its symptoms is difficult as as they are similar to symptoms of malaria, typhoid fever, shigellosis, cholera, and other viral hemorrhagic fevers. Timely treatment of Ebola is challenging due to the difficulty in diagnosing the early stages of infection. The WHO states that several laboratory tests are needed to diagnose Ebola infections definitively and that acquiring samples for these tests is extremely hazardous and should be conducted under maximum biohazard containment conditions. According to the CDC and the WHO, isolation and quarantine of infected individuals, intensive care and supportive therapy, maintaining the balance of the patient's fluids and electrolytes, and treatment of any complicating infections remain the standard treatment for mitigating the effects of the disease.
Page 7
TRANSPORT
“The forgotten transport infrastructure of Non-Motorized Transport”
T
he problems resulting from transport
externalities have become a world-wide contested concern. It is evident that Motorized transport consumes a large amount of non-renewable resources on one hand, and produce an equally significant amount of waste and by-products that are toxic to the environment and its inhabitants. It is time we open the debate around the practical ways of reducing the impact of such negative externalities; including congestion, accidents, pollution and climate change, particularly in our big cities such as Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban and City of Cape Town. Private car ownership has steadily increased over the years in our cities. My experience Kgwedi Reginald lies within the City of Johannesburg in this argument. We cannot deny the fact that Oh NMT!!!!!!! What is Non-motorized urban population is growing hence the demand for transport, and congestion transport (NMT), as one can ask? problem within those urban areas. Let us put our focus to the City of Gold, Johannesburg According to Victoria Transport Policy Institute, Nonmotorized Transport (also known as Active as our case study. Transportation and Human Powered Transportation) There have been transport infrastructure includes and , and variants such as (skates, developments in the city for almost a skateboards, push scooters and hand carts) decade. There have been various and travel. Oh the definition gave it all. My question is; investments in the city for infrastructure “do we have such in our beautiful country”? “Do we developments, be it housing, and whatever need such in our beloved country”? that one may think of. Gauteng roads, in particular the freeways/ highways have been improved through SANRAL’ Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project. But in all these developments, are there going to be developments for the Non-Motorized transport Infrastructure? Bicycle riding in Europe
TRANSPORT
No we do not have, (except some little development in other parts of Cape Town) and yes we do need the facilities. NMT provides both recreation and transportation, for example, some people will choose to walk or bicycle rather than drive because they enjoy the activity, although it takes longer, (Victoria Transport Policy Institute). I witnessed the beauty of this in the city of Antwerp, Paris, Amsterdam, and Rotterdam. One of my friend asked; “Is South Africa, in particular Johannesburg ready for such infrastructure and what is it that is making it not ready for such great future”. “Is Braamfontein developing NMT facilities”? I don’t think so, that is a mickey-mouse development. As long as there is no separation (barriers) or dedicated NMT facilities, we are going to see disaster in what is happening in Braamfontein. There is no way a NMT facility can be developed parallel the taxi route without barriers and get to be well, unless the city has got hidden plans for the developments. “Is the Investment enough”?
OCTOBER 2014
Public Bike Systems (PBS), Antwerp (Belgium) automated bicycle rental systems
“What does Non-motorized transport entails”, my friend asked. I answered him according to how I learnt it at school. It is about: Improving sidewalks, crosswalks, paths and bikelanes. Correct specific roadway hazards to non-motorized transport. Improve Non-motorized Facility Management and Maintenance , including reducing conflicts between users. Universal Design Systems that accommodate people with disabilities and other special needs. Develop pedestrian oriented land use and building design. Traffic Speed Reduction, Vehicle Restrictions. Safety education, law enforcement and encouragement programs. Integrate with transit (Bike/Transit Integration and Transit Oriented Development). Bicycle Parking. Address Security Concerns of pedestrians and cyclists. Public Bike System (PBS), which are automated bicycle rental systems designs to provide efficient mobility for short, utilitarian urban trips, e.g Bicycle system in Antwerpen, Paris.
TRANSPORT
OCTOBER 2014
According to some estimates by Mackett (2000), should non-motorized transport infrastructure be improved within our cities, we can see at least 510% of motorized trips being shifted to nonmotorized transport in a typical urban area. I am of the support for NMT because of its benefits to the communities. A relatively short non-motorized trip often substitutes for a longer car trip. For example, a shopper might choose between walking to a small local store and driving a longer distance to shop at a supermarket. That is the beauty of NMT, if it is supported across the board.
Mobility Benefits
Improved non-motorized transport conditions increase of transport Walking and cycling are often the most transportation modes. People who are transportation disadvantaged often rely heavily on non-motorized transportation, for trips made entirely by walking or cycling and to access transit. Create more balanced transportation systems that reduce . improvements are particularly important for benefiting people with physical disabilities.
The University of Johannesburg and Wits Travel Demand Management (TDM) University has got a large number of students residing in the Johannesburg CBD, Parktown Benefits respectively who travel on a daily basis to and NMT plays a huge role in reducing congestion, from Auckland Park, Parktown, and CBD. Most Road and parking facility savings, of those students use taxis, buses and private Environmental protection (pollution) and cars. Few are walking and to my knowledge increase community . none of them is bicycling. The question is “why”? The answer is “where are the facilities?” For such a short distance, why drive while you can bicycle? Mode Split In Selected European Cities (ADONIS 2001) That will reduce congestion, pollution and save the environment. Are the Universities doing enough to encourage that? I don’t know. Through the above analysis it shows that many communities will walk and bicycle more frequently if they had suitable non-motorized facilities and resources. In closing my argument, I thought it will be of importance to share some of the benefits of Nonmotorized transport facility:
City
Foot and Cycle
Public Transport
Car
Inhabitants
Amsterdam (NL)
47 %
16 %
34 %
718,000
Groningen (NL)
58 %
6%
36 %
170,000
Delf (NL)
49 %
7%
40 %
93,000
Copenhague (DK)
47 %
20 %
33 %
562,000
Arhus (DK)
32 %
15 %
51 %
280,000
Odense (DK)
34 %
8%
57 %
1,983,000
Barcelona (Spain)
32 %
39 %
29 %
1,643,000
L’Hospitalet (Spain)
35 %
36 %
28 %
273,000
Mataro (Spain)
48 %
8%
43 %
102,000
Vitoria (Spain)
66 %
16 %
17 %
215,000
Brussels (BE)
10 %
26 %
54 %
952,000
Gent (BE)
17 %
17 %
56 %
226,000
Brujas (BE)
27 %
11 %
53 %
116,000
Some European cities have high rates of non-motorized transport.
TRANSPORT
OCTOBER 2014
It is up to the South African government in particular the National and provincial transport department to start looking at possible ways to develop NMT infrastructure. Some of strategies that can help improve non-motorized travel conditions and encouraging nonmotorized transport include: Integrate non-motorized planning into all transport and land use planning activities. Educate all transport professionals in non-motorized transport planning principles. Fund non-motorized planning at a comparable rate as other travel modes, e.g. BRT rea Vaya. Insure that all roads are suitable for walking and cycling unless these modes are specifically prohibited and suitable alternatives are available. Include non-motorized travel in transport surveys and models. Create pedestrian-oriented and neighborhoods. Use traffic calming and other traffic control measures to make street environments safer and more pleasant for non-motorized transport. I have learned that if decisions are not made now, they would never be made. Our urban transport system’s future is NMT. We need to go back to basics.
COVER ARTICLE
OCTOBER 2014
ADVERTISE WITH US
ads@circleofconcern.co.za lebo@circleofconcern.co.za golden@circleofconcern.co.za
COVER ARTICLE
OCTOBER 2014
Is Africa stepping up to the information age? Donald Msiza
The Tshwane Metropolitan has recently become the 3rd City in the world, the first in the African Continent to provide its residents with free Wi-Fi services, password free however limited (to 250 megabytes). Should such services, which the Western Cape Province has since prioritised and might implement soon be rolled out throughout the rest of the country, the best focus being allotted the highly illiterate, poor communities, Africa will step to the Information Age, an epoch characterised by growth in the usage of international languages [English being the most common], new and updated computer and phone applications made supposedly to ameliorate life, though that’s arguable given the complexity and un-ease of access they bring with in spite the recent ease of access to the internet.
Facebook, arguably the fastest growing, largest and richest social networking company recently announced that it will be bringing free internet to the country of Zambia in response to the shocking research statistics which reveal that only 30% of the world’s population has access to the internet despite over 85% of the world having cellular coverage. Does this mean Africa is becoming of age in regards internet [and ICT as a whole] development?
COVER ARTICLE
OCTOBER 2014
These developmental activities could really mean a lot to the African people since ICTs is swiftly becoming fat and the closing of the digital divide is pivotal for the advancement of rural communities, illiterate individuals and small medium enterprises. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development defines the digital divide as the difference between individuals, households, businesses and geographic areas with regard to (a) their opportunities to access ICTs and (b) their use of the Internet for a wide variety of activities. It is the gap between those who have real access to information and communications technology and who are able to use it effectively, and those who don’t have such access. However the hurried fattening of the usage and development of ICTs, exorbitant access costs present a knot to the progression of ICTs in Africa and growth in the number of users of this terrific service. The access and usage of the internet in developing countries is expensive, wherever is available. However, in South Africa access to the net has been ameliorated by the recent drop in cell phone rates and promotion price cuts (which are not permanent). Most of the South African population is unemployed and accordingly these factors do not better things for them.
Only if access to the internet could be priced after first determining the location of the user and the cost of the service determined from there, since most South African unemployed illiterate people mostly reside in one/ more common place. SMS services can be traced using RICA, the RICA service details the most important information in regards the applicant, why not use it to capture the income of the particular person and then the Government subsidise the activities as per the number of participants per Cellular Network, this will happen only when the duties of the government cease to be only the development of physical infrastructure. In 2009 the African Economic Outlook on Innovation and New Technology in Africa recorded that Africa as a continent was in need of laptops and mobile phones, fibre optics and mobile phones ‘to fuel a communications revolution’, now that free internet services are being rolled out the entire continent and the mobile network providers are expanding their respective coverage, has Africa become of age or is it still an adolescent in innovation and ICTs development?
Are we there yet?
m
LEADERSHIP
OCTOBER 2014
5 Ways of spotting a control freak.Komane Golden
Control freak is a pejorative word for someone who attempts to dictate how everything around everyone is done. Someone who cares more about something that he will dictate how, when and why it is done just to see it through. They are human like us; they occasionally behave like normal individuals but stay at their own arcane world that few of us understand. Controlling everything is a good thing but it has been done in a bad way that is why we ended up having control freaks. The power hunger, conformity, insecurity, iron fist style leadership, and burnout go in the bigger basket of the theory. They are described as perfectionists defending themselves against their own inner vulnerabilities in the belief that if they are not in total control they risk exposing themselves once more to childhood angst. These individuals feel like others cannot do a good job if they are not around. Such persons manipulate and pressure others to change to avoid having to change themselves, and use power over others to escape an inner emptiness. They end up feeling terrible and powerlessness. But feeling their pain and fear conveys them back to themselves.� Paradoxically, the ultimate form of control is actually letting go. Circle of Concern Magazine
1. Manipulative and Anti-change experts Such persons are manipulative and pressure others to change so as to avoid having to change themselves. Control freaks escape an inner emptiness by using their powers over innocent people. They feel they are in power and by so doing they avoid changing themselves. They are usually called anti-change experts because they deny being changed but they want to change everything around them.
2. Insecurity Insecurity happens to everyone but the more you experience it, just know that you are becoming a control freak slowly but surely. The critical thing behind control freak is POWER. They do not want to feel powerless not out-shined Robert Green in his book, 48 Laws of Power he emphasizes how modern leaders became power mongers that led to them feel insecure if someone below their title outshines them. One of his laws says, “Do not outshine the master.� He is simply saying that the will feel insecure.
Page 7
LEADERSHIP
3. Shifting the blame and Taking the game When things go wrong in a company or a project, control freaks turn to blame co-workers instead of taking responsibility if they are involved. The project started with the team work spirit but suddenly after its failure it ends up with one poor guy having to carry the whole burden. Here comes success they are at the forefront but during the hard times they were at the back busy shifting the blame. They use one of the evil theories ever seen in the world, “Let them do the work and you take all the credits.”
OCTOBER 2014
4. They are everywhere One thing you might have not grasped about control freaks is that they are all over the place. There is a thing line between curiosity and control freak theory. You will find them everywhere in the organization, sales department, distribution, financial, Public relation, production the lists goes on and on. They are everywhere not because they are curious but because they feel like their employees, for example cannot not do the work as expected.
It is debatable whether being a control freak is a good or wrong thing. The truth of the matter is that there are some control freaks who are doing extremely well in the business world. The likes of Steve Jobs were named as control freaks but he managed to build a profound business with greater sustainability and financial sound. It can be good or bad but first you have to look at the environment you are operating or functioning in. There
Circle of Concern Magazine
Power
Pride
Price
5. Self-centered and Bossy Professor of clinical psychology Les Parrott wrote “Control Freaks are people who care more than you do about something and won't stop at being pushy to get their way”. It is funny some of them is that they are even loud-mouthed. Control freaks make you dance to their melody otherwise you are out of their circus. They will boss you to hell.
Page 7
TalkWithYouth
OCTOBER 2014
STREET TALK
Is Wi-Fi in schools encouraging bad behavior? Molebogeng Mashobane It doesn’t? No scientific study has ever found negative effects from electromagnetic fields? I can’t think of a single school subject that doesn’t require internet connection besides life orientation, with Wi-Fi in schools it allows us to get information, increase the level of our knowledge and understanding, reading skill, communication skills the ability to explore the internet .what Wi-Fi does is nothing but promote the spirit of laziness learners no longer answer r reason logical all they know is Wi-Fi
Kabelo Mashobane We live in a time where everything is done with just a click of button, which differs a lot with the 1950s era as technology evolved. Some would say Wi-Fi in schools encourages bad behavior because pupils are now able to log into their social networks for free but I say with Wi-Fi present or not logging in the networks and downloading nasty pictures and videos could be done anyway. So I find it convenient because it enhances our learning skills especially in COMPUTER APPLICATIONS TECHNOLOGY (CAT) as computer skills are much more in demand. So as much as one might see it as a bad behavioral encouragement, it helps to stay intact with the ever changing technology !
Wi-Fi in schools encourages very bad behavior due to the distractions that it causes when students are at school and the connect to Wi-Fi this is a bad influence towards their education levels because it brings down their level of concentration in class and in this way their marks drop very badly...so the best way to solve this issue is that in all schools private or government the WI-Fi connection should be locked!
Palesa Mashego
kgotho Mailula YES, because Wi-Fi Effect? Will restore dignity and everyone is going to benefit on this project even remote areas. At first the electricity department took 14 Days per site but has reduced to two days per site. This project is too empower youth to connect to Wi-Fi to use as blueprint and for Africa to be connected as a whole is the motivation he made, to incline young people from early ages for sustainability of the Tshwane 2055 vision. Primary objective by Tshwane is to connect the whole province in 5years, technological growth=GDP growth by 3,5% and too modernize business initiatives on how to interface with consumers Revenue growth by 80% in Soshanguve since the launch of Wi-Fi in the capital city and for the benefit to produce better research engine to learn beyond measure. The first project will be launched in hamaskraal, Inkangaal in phase 3 enduring solutions through education.
Amo Lehobye
Why is it difficult for nations to practice environmental sustainability ?
Environmental Concerns
OCTOBER 2014
From ENVIRONMENTAL science to environmental sense Ofentse Maluleka
I am glad that environmental issues are no longer a science now. The world’s biggest issues: The likes of climate change, pollution, population growth and loss of biodiversity are now getting most of our attention now. Not so long ago people used to say science is all about myths and against the Gods. What scientists and philosophers like Aldo Leopold (Philosopher and ecologist), Garrett Hardin (biologist and ecologist), James Lovelock (Chemist) and Arne Naess (Philosopher and ecologist) had tried to explain in the early decades has now being felt, the environment changes every day. This is because the issues we are facing today are interconnected and brings more concerns, one leads to the other. So determining how we ought to live our lives during this lifetime is hard, but considering the introduction and theory of sustainability it makes sense. Hence our biggest challenge today is not the science but the sense. Global population growth has put more pressure on our natural capital, the quality of our natural cycles has been degrading during the past years leading to this present time. Climate change has resulted in the variability in the amount of rainfall received, others receiving more and others less. With this trend growing our agricultural sectors will experience major impact, this then becomes a threat on food security. Pollution reduces the quality of nature’s natural services, pollution on water, air and land. Degraded resources are no longer useful and bring along many health issues. Animals have their own way of protecting the environment, they regulate the plants life cycle by feeding on each other and on them. Such a role is essential because without it more form of a certain species will dominate.
maluleka@circleofconcern.co.za We can see the relationship between the links, how one issue contributes to the other. Therefore this science is just a knowledge on the consequence of our actions, and such information has been available to the world but environmental crisis still continues to grow. So what seems to be the problem? I know that development differs from continent to continent, the so called Brundtlant line categorizes the world into three. The developed, underdeveloped and developing. Some environmental issues in other categories is not seen as important compared to the other issues so little time is spent on improving it. Now in southern Africa air pollution rate is increasing due to poor electricity infrastructure and this is because less money is spent on this department and more is focused on water, land and biodiversity. They still continue with heavy pollution sources just in South Africa, a new coal powered fire station is under construction known as medupi power station. This will continue will the legacy of high emissions.
Environmental Concerns
I believe every country at this point has its own environmental policy, a policy which should protect the environment and accommodate other factors of the economy. In South Africa, NEMA (National Environmental Management Act) encourages sustainable development by integrating economic, environmental and social factors in all parts of development from planning, implementation and decisionmaking of projects. But this becomes nothing if it is not put into practice or if monitoring is not effective. Therefore it came into my conclusion that the problem is not just the trend in environmental issues but the need for environmental sense rather than just a science. A sense is a state of behavioral agency within us, we ought to find a way to behave in a manner that protects the world not just for us but for future generations also and to show a sense of respect to nature. Don’t just know and understand the science practice it and if you not sure about your actions you can always contact organizations that deals with environmental management. Those who know the environmental protection systems must teach others and quality monitoring and auditing is essential for environmental justice. Strive to protect nature, challenge your mindset and improve your action. Be environmentally friendly just like you wish people should be towards you, friendly.
OCTOBER 2014
“A thing is right if it promotes the integrity, stability and the beauty of the biotic community and it is wrong if it does otherwise.� Aldo Leopold
Entertainment
OCTOBER 2014
The daughter of President Jacob Zuma called to produce new soapie to replace Generations By Andrew Sako
President Jacob Zuma's actress daughter Gugu was called in to produce a new drama to rescue SABC1 after 16 Generations actors were sacked last month. Zuma, fresh from an internship with US superstar actor and producer Tyler Perry, is said to be hard at production in KwaZuluNatal creating a show titled Uzalo, which some in the industry believe will replace the ill-fated Generations. The show, which is commissioned for over 300 episodes, is expected to have a drama and soapie appeal with a Zulu language slant as it is aimed to take on the hugely popular Isibaya on Mzansi Magic. The new show Uzalo which is expected to feature some familiar faces from Generations with a generous helping of new stars. It was originally planned to go on air in January 2015, but with the drama at Generations, the source says the show may be on local screens sooner. Duma Ndlovu is one of the three executive producers working with Zuma, the third is Pepsi Pokane.
Ndlovu has been updating his status on Facebook about the developments on Uzalo, even posing with Zuma and her mother Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma in Pietermaritzburg, where he introduced the younger Zuma as executive producer of Uzalo. In another posting he warns aspirant actors of bogus auditions held in the name of the new show. Efforts to speak to Gugu Zuma drew a blank. However, a highly placed executive at the SABC shot down the claims that Uzalo would replace Generations. She pointed out that plans were under way to have Generations refreshed with new story lines and faces.
Entertainment
Mzilo fulfilling his PASSION
OCTOBER 2014
‘Comedy sometimes needs to be offensive, it needs to be transgressive, and it needs to push the boundaries of what is acceptable in society’
Omphile Bogoshi
Mzilo Ke Stele
We catch with the Upcoming comedian Thapelo Netshifhefhe popularly known as Mzilo by his fans. Born and bred in Soshanguve Mzilo tells us that it all started with just a dream and the desire to be someone who tells stories about what is happening around his surrounding in a humorous manner. This led him to explore his talent and start hosting comedy gigs and shows.
Passionate about Comedy
Mzilo says he developed his comedy skills in high school and realized he actually loved it. His biggest challenge is the fact that comedy is about catching everyone’s attention and not just performing but giving fans easy clues and multiple chances to participate takes away the zeal from the challenge.
Working his way up A word of advice
Mzilo advices all aspiring comedians to avoid using vulgar language at all times, he explains that people tend to stay away from most acts at the comedy shows because there's too much bad language and rude topics. ‘Comedy sometimes needs to be offensive, it needs to be transgressive, and it needs to push the boundaries of what is acceptable in society’.
Mzilo started by using his Facebook page to lure people to his jokes and this unexpectedly increased his Facebook fan-base He then hosted comedy shows and youth talk shows on TUT FM. Since then he performs at comedy gigs and gets booked to perform at various events. He doesn’t always perform individually; he is working together with Ga-Rankuwa comedians.
Best moments “Winning the BEST UPCOMING COMEDIAN (pure talent production) is one my greatest achievements. I went into the challenge trying my luck but I turned out to be the best and I will always be grateful for the opportunity. My fans should watch out for the next round of the competition and my comedy gig that are coming soon”
ECONOMY
OCTOBER 2014
Agriculture and the economy
Michelle Leokameng
Agriculture is one of the most essential driver of South Africa's economy. South Africa is selfsufficient in terms of its agriculture, all thanks to conventional methods of agriculture. How many counts do we have until we are no longer at the mercy of our agricultural products? The big question is, are these methods sustainable? Both for our land and for food security? Sadly the answer is no. Conventional agriculture involves the use of heavy vehicles, fossil fuels, fertilizers and pesticides. Furthermore our soil encounters a lot of compaction and irrigation. These methods of agriculture have negative impacts on the environment. Using fertilizers extensively may lead to eutrophication, which favors the growth of other aquatic species over others such as algae, when these die and decompose they extract oxygen from the water causing other aquatic species to suffocate, some of these species are fish we depend on of food.
Pesticides on the other hand are "good" for a certain period of time, while aiming to kill organisms that are a threat to the plant growth they also kill natural predators. More over the pests may adapt to the pesticides producing offspring that are pesticide resistant causing more harm to crops. Compaction causes water logging and salinization, this prevents the growth of crops with the exception of salt tolerant plants. These lead to soil erosion, a removal of the essential organic matters of soil into the river causing formations of residues. Ultimately the soil becomes infertile and the very same soil upon which agriculture depends is unable to provide the growth of crops. If this continues the earth may reach a point where it cannot continue to handle such brutality, we may not be able to depend on ourselves as a country for agricultural products. Imagine the country we'll become if the very same methods we implement to become one of the top countries in the world that produce enough bring us to turmoil.
ECONOMY
OCTOBER 2014
We would have to borrow resources from other countries to keep going, in doing so we'd have to spend money we don't even have. Even though South Africa is self-sufficient in its agricultural products, the harsh inevitable that thousands still go to bed hungry remains. So we still need enough to feed everyone a balanced diet three meals per day, with that being said, we still have a long way to go. Only thirteen percent of South Africa's soil is good for cultivation, of the thirteen percent thirty percent was intended to be given to black people. Of the expected thirty percent only 6 percent has been transferred to black people. But does it matter who owns the land? In the end it's not about who owns the land, it's about what we do with it and whether or not what we do with it is beneficial for today and for future generations. The government's support to starting farmers is poor, this increases the pressure of farmers to focus more on increasing yield and profit instead of finding ecologically sustainable methods of productivity. South African entrepreneurs should also find interest in investing in agriculture, or even starting businesses in agriculture. As boring as agriculture may seem to others, it is essential for food security and for economic growth and given a chance it is very interesting with a lot of things to learn and develop.
There should be campaigns focusing on educating young South Africans about agriculture, encouraging them to embark careers in agriculture and its economic importance. So the next time I ask matriculates what they thinks of embarking a career in agriculture I expect to receive an answer expressing earnestly the desire for them to embark a career in agricultural engineering, to find innovative methods of producing foods in ecologically sustainable ways. Many farmers are reluctant to use more environmentally friendly methods of agriculture. The implementation of green houses and hydroponics is for one very expensive to start, nonetheless it becomes cheaper to operate eventually. Furthermore it produces quality food at a faster rate. Considering also that water is a scarce resource in our country, green houses using hydroponics would be a great idea. A lot of research has to be made to find ways to come up with agricultural methods that are sustainable. Methods that will also increase productivity and in essence profits. So whether you want to be an innovative thinker in being an entrepreneur or investor in the industry or you just want to find ecologically sustainable methods of producing crops keeping focus on saving the earth, agriculture has a lot offer. After all we could learn a thing or two from the late president Thomas Sankara of Bekina Faso.
Environmental Concerns
OCTOBER 2014
Entertainment BUZZ After all said and done, state case was weak now that’s that mean Oscar Pretorius will get away with this one? Sentencing postponed to 13th October 2014 but we cannot blame him for sleeping with a loaded gun under his pillow, with the high rate of crime in this country one must sleep with loaded gun in his hand. Our President was right we certainly need Jesus Christ I wonder what he needs. Another wife? Lately has been hanging out with Bonang Matheba and she even posted the pictures of them together on instagram, should the wives be worried? There’s only one person that can put him in his place, Mrs. Thuli Madonsela but people need to stop referring to her weave as a wig so much for trying to protect the public, let us be grateful and respectful. You can take me out of the ghetto but you can’t take the ghetto out of me, Now we all know why Nomuzi Mabena is in that music video right? She accused Nomzamo Mbatha for stealing her man Thomas Gumede now that’s ghetto, even she takes your man at least you can still twerk to get another one. Casper Nyovest and K.O dominate this year’s Channel O Africa music awards with five nominations each, more beef from AkA what is wrong with this guy anyway? He had beef with kwetsa earlier this year and with Casper as well.
Molebogeng Mashoban Boity trying to look like Amber Rose? First it was a red weave and now blond hair? What’s next? She said she doesn’t do music videos anymore who does she think she is?Congratulations are in order for Thando Thabete the 5fm DJ was announced as the ambassador for Nivea, the 1st local celebrity to be used for a print compaign. Muvhango will never be the same again problematic Khomotsho Mojalefa’s contract ended on the 31st of august and will not be renewed unfortunately Itumeleng Khune little sister couldn’t wait to show off her new sister law on instagram and she was attacked by Minnie’s fans leave the little girl alone I am sure Minnie’s is over that and she is at new York focusing on her career I wonder how she feels about boity being in new York as well. There are things you don’t know about the Queen of bling Miss khanyi Mbau apparently her dad is taxi boss chances are he started as taxi driver and we can’t really blame her for not being able to read, she said: I can’t read and her excuse is that she is suffering from dyslexia, poor thing doesn’t even like being famous unbelievable right? 46 year old chooses a teenager that has dated two of his sons as his 15th wife, you already know who I am talking about right? The one and only king Swati is this even illegal? This is South Africa and you are allowed to say and do whatever you like.