AFRICA'S COVID-19 EVOLUTION DIFFERENT -WHO
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South Africa Lifts
THE AFRICAN STORY Lockdown Restrictions
page 4
Top 10 Countries In Africa
ISSUE NUMBER 733 VOLUME 2 17 - 23 AUGUST 2020 That Offer The Best Safari
Experience?
page 12
AFRICA’S COVID-19
EVOLUTION DIFFERENT
-WHO page 2
• Difficult To Determine Specific Infection Peak In The Continent
2 Echo Report Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020
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evolution different -WHO
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DISCLAIMER:
Echo Newspaper welcomes
concise letters from readers.
Letters must carry the
full name and address of
the sender. Letters must As Africa marked the sixth moth with the highest infections in preventive, diagnostic and care for patients (47%) are all
conform to the laws of last week since the COVID-19 Africa and at fifth spot in the treatment measures being particularly low at the district
Botswana and to the Press
Council of Botswana’s Code pandemic was first detected, the world had reached its peak of strengthened, with all countries level.”
Of Ethics. Letters will also be World Health Organisation says infections. now able to diagnose COVID-19, Dr Moeti has underscored that
edited for length, libel and its evolution in the continent has The world health governing 14 performing over 100 tests per while progress has been made, it
language. been different to other regions body said that COVID-19 initially 10 000 population. is important that governments
of the world that the virus has capital cities in Africa but has “Production of oxygen, step up readiness and response
affected. since changed and was now critical for severely ill COVID-19 measures, particularly at
moving from high density urban patients, has also considerably the subnational levels. With
Lately, many countries in areas to informal settlements and increased, with the number the loosening of movement
Africa have been experiencing then onward to rural areas that of oxygen plants in the region restrictions, there are risks
sudden surges in the cases, have a lower population density. rising to 119 from 68 at the onset, that the virus may spread even
forcing them to re-introduce while the number of oxygen further into remote areas of the
restrictions to movement in a According to Regional Director concentrators has more than continent.
bid to contain the local spread for Africa Dr Matshidiso Moeti, doubled to over 6000.” “Not only must we keep up with
of the virus. curbing COVID-19 in the A recent WHO assessment the evolving trends, we must also
Read more Echo The World Health Organization continent is a marathon and based on self-reporting by 16 anticipate, predict and act faster
stories on our (WHO) says its preliminary not a sprint. countries in sub-Saharan Africa to head off potentially disastrous
Facebook page by analysis has found that an
exponential surge in cases which
“We are observing multiple
local outbreaks each with their
found that the countries improved
their capacity to respond to
outcomes,” said Dr Moeti. “Areas
of high transmission as well as
scanning the QR peak about two to three weeks own infection patterns and peaks. COVID-19. WHO measured localities with relatively fewer
code below with later is not occurring in Africa, It is by bolstering the response countries’ readiness in a range infections both deserve attention.
your mobile phone but instead, many countries are at the community level that we of areas including coordination, In short we must be strong on
experiencing a gradual rise in will win this race. The COVID-19 surveillance, laboratory capacity, all fronts.”
COVID-19 cases and it is difficult response must be integrated case management, infection The health body is currently
to discern a specific peak. into the fabric of every health prevention and control. supporting countries witnessing
“Transmission patterns district,” Dr Moeti said. “Six months ago, the score was a large number of COVID-19
also differ between countries, The analysis also found that in 62% and now it is 78%. While infections, and South Africa
but more importantly within the past six months, countries much progress appears to have became the first country to
countries,” WHO said. have made a lot of progress, been made at the national level, receive members of a surge team
That being the case, South with many governments quick at the district level countries from WHO.
Africa on Saturday lifted to impose lockdowns and key are generally lagging behind.
lockdown restrictions on the public health measures that The scores for coordination (Additional Reporting WHO)
economy as President Cyril helped to slow down the virus. (38%), infection prevention
Ramaphosa said the country, This has over time led to and control (46%) and clinical
Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020 Echo Report 3
Seven African
countries to start
testing for COVID-19
antibodies
Seven African countries will in Addis Ababa.
start administering coronavirus Western governments are
antibody tests from next week, a using antibody tests to find out
regional body said on Thursday, how many of their citizens have
as part of efforts to understand been infected, in the hope that
the extent of the outbreak on will help them reopen their
‘‘
the continent. economies.
Africa has so far conducted
9.4 million coronavirus tests,
a 10% increase over last week,
Nkengasong said. These tests
show whether people currently
“Liberia, Sierra have COVID-19. The continent’s
relative isolation has so far spared
Leone, Zambia, it the worst of the pandemic, but
Zimbabwe, low levels of testing in many
countries mean Africa’s infection
Cameroon, Nigeria, rates are likely to be higher than
Morocco are the reported, experts say.
As of Thursday, Africa had
first set of countries recorded more than a 1 million
that committed cases of COVID-19 and 24,113
deaths, according to a Reuters
to it,” said John tally. Nkengasong said 25
Nkengasong, African countries still have
full border closures while 23
“Liberia, Sierra Leone, are imposing testing at entry
Zambia, Zimbabwe, Cameroon, points. He stressed the need to
Nigeria, Morocco are the first set harmonize border testing and
of countries that committed to recognition of certificates in
it,” said John Nkengasong, head order to facilitate travel.
of the Africa Centres for Disease
Control and Prevention, based (Reuters )
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4 Echo Report
Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020
made statements to the effect
that Africa was presentation a
different evolution of the virus
infection. The world health
body noted that for Africa it
was difficult to discern a specific
peak.
“An exponential surge in cases
which peak about two to three
weeks later is not occurring
in Africa, but instead, many
countries are experiencing a
gradual rise in COVID-19 cases
and it is difficult to discern a
specific peak,” WHO said.
Despite imposing one of the
world’s toughest lockdowns
when the country had only a few
hundred cases, South Africa saw
a surge in coronavirus infections
that left it with the fifth highest
number of cases in the world —
currently around 579,000, of
whom around 11,500 have died.
The COVID-19 crisis has
battered an economy already
in recession and pushed millions
of South Africans deeper into
extreme poverty. But Ramaphosa
said rates of new infections had
fallen to an average of 5,000 a
day, from a peak of 12,000 a day.
This, as well as a rise in
recoveries, were “significantly
reducing the pressure on
our health facilities”, but he
cautioned that cases could
surge if people fail to maintain
South Africa Lifts
vigilance. Restrictions on
international travel remained
in place, he said.
The lifting of restrictions on
Lockdown Restrictions
alcohol will be a relief to the
battered hospitality and drinks
industries, some of which have
been pushed close to bankruptcy
and shed thousands of jobs. “The
further easing of restrictions
South African President of the Public Health Emergency, “All indications are that South “The move to level two means presents us with the greatest
Cyril Ramaphosa has said all Ramaphosa said the government Africa has reached the peak and that we can remove nearly opportunity since the start of
indications were that South would end the ban on alcohol moved beyond the inflection all of the restrictions on the the pandemic to breathe life
Africa had reached the peak of and tobacco, allow restaurants point of the curve,” Ramaphosa resumption of economic activity into our struggling economy,”
COVID-19 infections Ramaphosa and taverns to return to normal said, adding that the cabinet across most industries,” he said. Ramaphosa said.
made the announcement on business, subject to strict hygiene had decided to move to lower, Ramaphosa made the
Saturday night as he announced regulations, and remove the ban “level two” restrictions from announcement at a time when (Reuters.)
a sweeping removal of lockdown on travel between provinces. midnight on today (Monday). the World Health Organisation
‘‘
restrictions on the economy.
“All indications are
that South Africa has
reached the peak
and moved beyond
the inflection
point of the curve,”
Ramaphosa
said, adding that
the cabinet had
decided to move to
lower, “level two”
restrictions from
midnight on today
(Monday)
In his much anticipated address
as the country reached the end
Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020
5
6 Echo Report Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020
on some of their promises.
Another factor was that
governments focused solely on
developing their economies,
‘‘
forgoing the negative impact on
Projects in
Cameroon, Côte
d’Ivoire, Kenya
and Namibia all
showed that key
ecological and social
cultural criteria
were missing. This
happened even after
the government
engaged local
communities at the
start. But they did
not follow through
on some of their
promises.
Review Of Nine African ‘Blue
the ecology and people.
This was the case for the
phosphate mining initiative in
Economy’ Projects Shows What
Namibia. It was also the case
for port infrastructure projects.
In Cameroon, the Kribi Port
Works And What Doesn’t
project led to the displacement
of communities and large-scale
deforestation. Kenya’s Lamu port
project led to habitat destruction.
Negative consequences like
Africa has 38 coastal countries equally distributed, and resources between government, industry, Three of the case studies were these can lead to instability
and six islands whose maritime must be used in a way that is other stakeholders and the local from Kenya, while one cut across or secessionist movements.
industry is estimated to be worth ecologically sustainable. communities throughout the five countries. Examples include Nigeria’s Niger
US$1 trillion per year. This figure Findings from unsuccessful process – from conception to Drawing on our case studies we Delta and Angola’s Cabinda.
will increase as they develop their projects showed that governments implementation. found that successful initiatives Achieving the goal of successful
offshore hydrocarbon, energy, had the right intentions. But The projects we looked at all accentuated the involvement of blue growth in Africa requires
tourism, maritime transport, the emphasis was on economic involved investors, governments local communities and promoted strong political commitment. This
shipping and fishing sectors. outcomes. Social equity and and communities. They included sustenance of natural ecosystems. is vital to balance economic, social
These industries are collectively ecological sustainability got marine transport and shipping, They successfully balanced and environmental benefits.
called the “blue economy”. They limited attention. port infrastructure, fisheries and ecological, social and economic We propose the adoption
are recognised as central to In conclusion, to achieve blue aquaculture, marine phosphate features. of a collaborative framework
Africa’s sustainable development. economy goals, coastal states mining and marine protection. This happened through involving various stakeholders.
They can also play a key role in must reconsider their strategies. The nine projects we looked the active engagement of These would include government,
achieving the continent’s Agenda A collaborative framework at affected 11 countries. These the government, and other international corporations,
2063. This includes achieving would amalgamate the top-down were Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, stakeholders, with local scientific communities, NGOs and
integration, prosperity and peace. and bottom-up approaches to Kenya, Namibia, The Gambia, communities. Examples included local communities. They would
But for this to happen, it is blue economy management. It Madagascar, Seychelles, Tunisia, seaweed farming in Kenya and work collectively throughout
important that the benefits are would entail active engagement Egypt, Algeria and Morocco. the community of fishers project the process, from inception to
in Madagascar. Another was completion.
the community-led mangrove All parties must be actively
conservation and restoration engaged throughout. By being
project – “Mikoko Pamoja” – in involved, from the beginning to
Kenya. the end, communities can solve
Un s u c c e s s f u l p r o j e c t s issues that arise along the way.
were likely to exclude local Seeing communities as equal
communities in the process and partners also means that fears
undermined their livelihoods. – for instance about timing or
They also tended to prioritise compensation – are allayed. And
economic gains at the expense grievances about livelihoods or
of the environment. ecological concerns would be
These projects included identified early on and addressed.
the development of port As coastal states look to make
infrastructure and marine gains, they must aim for economic
phosphate mining. development, local community
Projects in Cameroon, Côte inclusion and environmental
d’Ivoire, Kenya and Namibia sustainability. One aspect
all showed that key ecological cannot be prioritised over the
and social cultural criteria were other. Without this they risk
missing. This happened even perpetuating a cycle of instability.
after the government engaged This could be social, economic
local communities at the start. or political.
But they did not follow through (TheConversation.)
Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020 Echo Report 7
Mauritius
Tourism,
Reeling from
COVID, now hit
by oil Spill
Tourist operators in Mauritius
fear that an oil spill from a
Japanese ship will further damage
their businesses, already reeling
from the coronavirus epidemic,
and could cost jobs if their pristine
beaches are spoiled.
Tourism generated 63 billion
rupees ($1.6 billion) for the
economy last year. In May, the
central bank said that in the
past two months alone, the
nation had lost 12 billion rupees
in foreign exchange due to the
fall in tourism.
Willow River-Tonkin, who
owns a kite-surfing business,
said local guides would be some
of the hardest hit.
“It is really going to affect
the communities down there,
especially for the fisherman,
the local guys that live there,
you know that’s how they make
money from tourists,” said
“Taking them out to go diving
to go snorkelling, to go wake
boarding, to go see dolphins and
all that sort of thing you know
and all of that is going to affect it,
if we don’t get it under control
very soon.”
The MV Wakashio, owned by
Nagashiki Shipping and operated
by Mitsui OSK Lines Ltd, struck
a reef and went aground off the
Indian Ocean island’s southeast
coast on July 25. It began leaking
oil last Thursday.
Prime Minister Pravind
Jugnauth declared a state of
emergency last Friday.
Romina Tello, the 30-year-old
founder of sustainable tourism
agency Mauritius Conscious,
Leadership and Management Development
said that border closures due
the coronavirus had already
battered tourism. Mauritius shut
its borders on March 19 and has
had only 344 cases of COVID-19,
of which 332 have recovered and
10 have died. It is still closed to
international air travel.
The southeast coast where the
oil spill happened is famous for
snorkelling, kite surfing and
people visiting the sea flora and
the fauna of Mauritius, Tello said,
as well as sailing, as boats tend
to travel to the islands nearby.
“We are trying to activate
domestic tourism. But now, it is
impossible for me to recommend
for people to travel to the
southeast coast due to the smell
and they cannot swim because
of the spill,” she told Reuters.
(Reuters.)
8 Business & Finance Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020
By Emmanuel Allottey seen African currencies inevitably
weakened.
High Net Worth Individuals From the inception of world
(HNWI) is a term used by the currencies abandoning the gold
financial services industry standard and allowing their
to designate persons whose exchange rates to float freely
investible wealth (assets such against each other, there has
as stocks and bonds) exceeding been many currency devaluations
$1millon. events that have hurt not only the
This classification is measured wealthy citizens of the country
using the United States Dollar. For involved but has had a rippled
wealthy Africans their wealth in effect across the globe.
local currency must be converted African countries are notable
into the American dollar for their tumultuous operating
equivalent for measurement. environment consisting of
The volatility of the local political unrest, central bank
currency of a potential HNW policies, high crime rates, poverty
individual may either lead to and lagging infrastructure.
a gain or reduction in their Weak economic performance
wealth rating. Questions have in African nations compounded
been asked about the limited with volatility in exchange rates
number of Africans on notable directly and indirectly affect the
lists of wealthy individuals and accumulation of wealth.
one of the attributes to this is Key drivers of wealth creation
exchange rate volatility. are; strong safety and security,
African economies are highly media freedom and neutrality,
reliant on revenue generated from secure ownership rights, good
commodity exports to external economic growth, a well-
markets, due to their rich mineral developed banking system
wealth. In addition, African and stock market, low levels of
economies remain dependent government intervention, low
on the import of finished goods taxation, ease of investment,
from developed countries. and wealth migration into the
The interconnectedness of country.
global trade exposes African Many African nations perform
nations to currency risk. Global poorly on most of these indicators
How Exchange Rate
demand and supply chains, and and over time this has translated
the complex nature of financial to the number and net asset
markets have seen African value of HNWIs decreasing.
Volatility is affecting
currencies being affected during Exchange rate movements
global events. can have a positive or negative
The novel COVID-19 outbreak impact on an individual’s wealth.
has destabilised global trade with HNW individuals in Africa will
African Prosperity
demand subsiding dramatically, be exposed to currency risk if
sharply lowering commodity their assets remain denominated
prices as well as the fleeing of in local currency.
foreign capital, has consequently
requiring insurance cover is different types of mobile phone
accidental damage of the device. insurance available as well as
Mobile phones are used in daily different levels of cover offered.
activities and may fall victim to These cover options provide
unexpected falls and accidents a choice that best suits your
that lead to significant damage. needs and environment. There
The most prevalent damage are mainly two options, namely
mobile phones face is a cracked protection against theft alone,
or damaged screen. The cost and a more comprehensive
of repair for premium mobile option that protects your mobile
phone devices may be expensive phone device from theft and
in comparison with the price accidental damage.
of purchasing a new lower end It is prudent to have insurance
mobile phone device. However, for mobile phone devices
the investment in the mobile given the cost of mobile phone
phone device will be wasted if replacement or repair can be
not repairs are not made. With high. If your looking for mobile
insurance cover the cost of repair phone device insurance cover
Making your future
is covered. speak to your mobile network
Before you take out insurance operator or insurance provider.
you need to know there are
Retrenchment-Proof
By Emmanuel Allottey According to statistics, 1 in 5 The cost of premium mobile
people have their phone lost, devices is now beginning to
Africa has over half a billion stolen or damaged every year. overtake the price of some
unique mobile subscribers Mobile phone devices have television sets. Getting insurance
to date, making Africa the become so valuable that they cover on a mobile device has
fastest growing mobile market. can be considered as assets. The become necessity looking at the
Mobile phones offer Africans value or cost of premium mobile hazards that are faced in society.
a convenient and affordable devices has risen significantly The immediate threat requiring
way to get connected to this over the years with premium insurance cover is theft. Africa is
ever growing digital world. models averaging over $1000 home to above average criminal
The insurance market in Africa per device. The significance activity in the world. In the
is the least penetrated in the of the cost requires adequate event of theft insurance will
world and the opportunities protection and insurance cover replace the mobile phone
for growth are tremendous. in event of any disaster. device. Another potential risk
Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020
9
10 Politics Report Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020
had won less than 50% of the
poll. The rest is history.
Zanu-PF struck back with
a truly vicious campaign
against the MDC, Tsvangirai
withdrew from the contest, and
Mugabe remained as president,
controlling the levers of power.
The ANC looked on, held its
nose, and scuttled home to
Pretoria saying the uneasy
coalition it left behind was a
job well done.
Third, successive Zanu-PF
governments have become
increasingly militarised.
Mnangagwa may have put his
military uniform aside, but it
is the military which now calls
the shots. It ultimately decides
who will front for its power.
There have been numerous
statements by top ranking
generals that they will never
accept a government other
than one formed by Zanu-
PF. The African Union and
Southern African Development
Community have both outlawed
coups, but everyone knows that
the Mnangagwa government
is a military government in all
but name.
So, it is all very well to call
for a transitional government,
one which would see Zanu-PF
engaging with the opposition
parties and civil society
and promising a return
to constitutional rule and
the holding of a genuinely
Repression in Zimbabwe exposes
democratic election. But we
have been there before.
No one in their right mind
South Africa’s weakness
believes that a Ramaphosa
government, whose own
credibility is increasingly
threadbare because of its bungled
South African president Cyril and then relapse after a decent to look at three fundamental Fo r m e r S o u t h A f r i c a n response to the coronavirus
Ramaphosa’s dispatch of envoys interval to the sort of behaviour differences between 1976 and president Thabo Mbeki played a epidemic, its corruption and
to Zimbabwe in a bid to defuse that prompted the latest crisis now. crucial role in forging a coalition its economic incompetence,
the latest crisis, in which the in the first place. First, Vorster was propelled government between Zanu-PF has the stomach to bring this
government has engaged Back in 1976, apartheid South into pressuring Smith by and the opposition Movement about.
in a vicious crackdown on Africa’s Prime Minister John the US, which was eager to for Democratic Change (MDC) Any relief, any improvement
opponents, journalists and the B. Vorster fell in with US plans halt the perceived advance after the latter effectively won on the present situation will be
freedoms of speech, association to bring about a settlement of communism by bringing the parliamentary election in welcomed warmly in Zimbabwe.
and protest, has been widely in then Rhodesia, and hence about a settlement in Rhodesia 2008. But South Africa held But no one in Harare – whether
welcomed. relieve international pressure which was acceptable to the back from endorsing reliable in government, opposition or
Such has been the brutality on his own government, by West. In turn, Vorster thought indications that MDC leader civil society – will really believe
of the latest assault on human withdrawing military and that by complying with US Morgan Tsvangirai had also that Ramaphosa’s increasingly
rights by President Emmerson economic support and closing pressure, his regime would won the presidential election ramshackle government will
Mnangagwa’s regime that the border between the two earn Washington’s backing as against Robert Mugabe. be prepared to tackle the issue
something had to be done. And, countries. an anti-communist redoubt. As a result, Tsvangirai was that really matters: removing
as the big brother neighbour Ian Smith had little choice Today there is no equivalent forced into a runoff presidential the military from power.
next door, South Africa is the but to comply. Today, no one, spur to act. It is unlikely that US contest, supposedly because he (TheConversation.)
obvious actor to do it. not even the most starry-eyed president Donald Trump could
It may be guaranteed that hopefuls among the ranks of point to Zimbabwe on a map.
Ramaphosa’s envoys – Sydney the opposition and civil society Second, South African
Mufamadi, a former government in Zimbabwe, believe that intervention today is constrained
minister turned academic, and Ramaphosa’s South Africa will by liberation movement
Baleka Mbete, a former deputy be prepared to wield such a solidarity. They may have their
president of South Africa, former big stick. The time is long past differences and arguments,
speaker of the National Assembly that Pretoria’s admonitions of but Zanu-PF and the ANC,
and former chairperson of bad behaviour are backed by a which governs South Africa,
the African National Congress credible threat of sanction and remain bound together by the
(ANC) – were sent off to Harare punishment. conviction that they are the
with a very limited brief. They So, why is it that Vorster could embodiments of the logic of
were accompanied by Advocate bring about real change, twisting history.
Ngoako Ramatlhodi and Smith’s arm to engage in As the leading liberators of
diplomat Ndumiso Ntshinge. negotiations with his liberation their respective countries,
The mission quickly ran into movement opponents that they believe they represent
trouble. The envoys returned to eventually led to a settlement the true interests of the people.
South Africa without meeting and a transition to majority If the people say otherwise in
members of the opposition. rule, and ANC governments an election, this can only be
After all, the pattern is – from the time of Nelson because they have been duped
now well established: crisis, Mandela onwards – have been or bought. It cannot be allowed
intervention, promises by the so toothless? that history should be put into
Zanu-PF regime to behave, If we want an answer, we need reverse.Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020 Echo Report 11
How apps on Mobile Phones are marketed by the country’s mobile
operators, are helping drive up
an oversupply of information
via dedicated WhatsApp lines
changing Zimbabwe’s talk radio
use of these platforms. eluded even the most astute radio
However, there’s also a presenter.
downside to the advent of digital In addition, some messages
media technologies and digitalised reaching the studio WhatsApp
newsrooms. Observing live studio channel were so badly typed
In Africa, radio still has wider came with new challenges just to explain a point discussed shows I witnessed a number of that they would be set aside,
geographical reach and higher as newsrooms experience an in the previous show or even to structural constraints. the journalist preferring to
audiences than any other oversupply of digital information give us story leads. For example, while radio read out only well-typed
information and communication from audiences. Apps like WhatsApp have audiences may celebrate the messages. Newsroom pressures
technology, including television I set out to study a local radio become so pervasive and possibilities of easily sending and deadlines associated with
and newspapers. station in Harare, the capital of immersed in our everyday lives critical questions via WhatsApp broadcast media mean that there
Like the rest of the world, Zimbabwe through live studio that many more people can to studio hosts, an apparently isn’t the luxury of spending too
African radio is breaking ethnography and sustained now easily communicate with unintended consequence was much time on one question.
away from being an analogue interviews with radio producers larger numbers of contacts than that the journalist managing live In mass communication studies,
communication tool that relies and 21 audience members, the before. In the context of live studio debates struggled to read these are seen as exclusionary
on top down information flows latter largely working class Harare talk radio, mobile phones are out all the messages received. practices in live radio talkback
to one that relies on multiple residents. allowing more people to cheaply The studio WhatsApp number shows.
feedback loops. The main driver of Unsurprisingly, both producers and conveniently access studio commonly becomes congested. Democracy is normatively
this is digital media technologies. and audiences found the debates. Some messages and comments seen as thriving in environments
It’s a trend I examine in a convergence between radio and Prior to the emergence of digital are left unread and get buried where all voices, opinions and
paper called Mobile Phones and mobile phones is stretching out media technologies, land lines under an avalanche of newer views across diverse population
a Million Chatter: Performed the communicative space. It were expensive and not nearly ones popping up on the screen, profiles are respected and given
Inclusivity and Silenced Voices allows more inclusive, seamless as widely domesticated as mobile in turn buried under even newer a fair chance of representation.
in Zimbabwean Talk Radio. I and real time debate between phones are today. ones. Once this happens, it’s My study showed that, at
wanted to observe what is really radio hosts and audiences. There By 2017, WhatApp was already hard to tell how many quality least in terms of volume, the
happening at the convergence was a strong feeling that radio by far the most popular app in contributions have been lost by convergence between radio and
between radio, smartphones and continues to inculcate a sense Zimbabwe. It accounts for up not being read. So not all voices mobile phones is stretching out
related mobile-based applications of imagined community. One to 44% of all mobile internet reaching the studio get a fair the public sphere to accommodate
such as WhatsApp, Facebook producer said: usage in a country where 98% chance of being heard. more voices. Digital technologies
and Twitter. Because we have a dedicated of all internet usage is mobile. I call these unintended are allowing for new participants
I found that apps like mobile line for WhatsApp, our According to Postal and constraints, though, because to engage actively with radio.
WhatsApp have indeed grown programme has grown a bit in Telecommunications Regulatory they are not necessarily a
public discourse by connecting popularity and we know some Authority of Zimbabwe, result of failure by journalists (TheConversation.)
more voices to participate in of our listeners in person. Some promotional WhatsApp and and producers. They are more
live talkback radio – but this of them visit us during the day Facebook access bundles, a technical setback in which12 Travel Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020
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A safari tour to South Africa’s
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more accessible than those
found in Botswana, Kenya and
Tanzania.
Safari travellers also have a
vast choice of accommodation
in South Africa; ranging from
budget-friendly bush camps and
self-catering bungalows and
guest houses to ultra-luxury
safari lodges and luxury safari
tents. The choice of places to
stay and things to do on a
safari holiday in South Africa
are endless..
7. Tanzania
There are 54 countries in Africa 2. Kenya programmes and embattled 5. Rwanda
but there are 10 top destinations Kenya is home to the iconic wilderness regions have been Thirty years after Rwanda
that dominate safari tourism on Maasai Mara National Park; restored to their former glory. made international headlines
the continent. Each country one of the 7 Natural Wonders of The top two safari destinations for the horrific genocide
offers something unique for Africa and world-renowned for in Mozambique are Limpopo that took place, the country
wildlife travellers. its breathtaking vistas, pristine National Park in the south and has taken massive strides to
wilderness and of course, its Gorongosa National Park in boost its tourism and welcome
1. Botswana legendary mass migration of the north. They are hidden wildlife travellers back to
wildebeest, zebra and gazelle gems that attract intrepid iconic rainforest regions Tanzania is without doubt one
during the Great Migration. wildlife travellers happy to such as Volcanoes National of the best safari destinations in
Without doubt, the Maasai Mara venture off the beaten path Park, acclaimed as the finest Africa. The splendid Serengeti is
is at the top of every wildlife for an exceptional safari place on Earth for gorilla and world-famous not only for the
lover’s safari bucket list but it experience. Combine a safari chimpanzee trekking. However, Great Migration but also for its
isn’t the only reason Kenya is tour of Mozambique with a awe-inspiring beauty, natural
regarded as the ultimate safari magical holiday on the coast diversity and iconic landmarks
destinations in Africa. and you will have the best ‘bush such as the Ngorongoro Crater
There’s Lake Nakuru, home to and beach’ holiday. and Mount Kilimanjaro.
more than a million flamingoes Combine a holiday in the
in season; Amboseli National 4. Namibia magical Zanzibar Archipelago
Park, lying in the shadow of with a safari tour of Tanzania
the mighty Mount Kilimanjaro; and you’ll have the ‘bush and
Tsavo East National Park, one of beach’ holiday of your dreams.
Botswana is arguably one of the largest protected wilderness Rwanda has a lot more to offer
the finest safari destinations areas in East Africa… and so adventure travellers than its The Serengeti is the gold
in Africa, and also one of the the list goes on and on. Kenya sought-after populations of standard of wildlife experiences
most expensive. The country offers adventure travellers the primates. and a safari destination on every
works on a low-density tourism quintessential safari experience Nyungwe National Park traveller’s bucket list. However,
model which ultimately comes in wilderness regions that are offers a safari experience of don’t forget wilderness regions
with a high price tag. But it is simply heavenly. a different kind. Exploring in Tanzania that are off the
worth every cent. Botswana Na m i b i a o f fe r s a r d e n t the dense rainforest region, beaten track and a lot less
attracts adventure travellers 3. Mozambique wildlife lovers and birders a you’ll discover Rwanda’s crowded in season. This includes
with a yearning to escape to unique safari experience in unique collection of animal, the magnificent Tarangire, Lake
pristine wilderness regions a country that’s renowned plant and bird species. For a Manyara, Mahale and Mikumi
that are unfenced, wild and for its vast desert landscapes more traditional Big 5 safari national parks.
unspoilt by safari crowds. and fascinating biodiversity. experience, you will love
Botswana is endowed with Despite being covered by the the little-known but quite 8. Uganda
incredible natural diversity and oldest desert in the world, the spectacular Akagera National
is home to a UNESCO World Namib Desert, the wealth of Park.
Heritage Site and one of the animal and plant species in the
most famous safari destinations country is remarkable. 6. South Africa
in Africa, the glorious Okavango The iconic Etosha National
Delta. It’s also home to the lesser Park in Namibia is simply
known but equally spectacular spectacular. Other regions such
Chobe National Park. If you as the mysterious Skeleton
cannot get to the Serengeti Coast and the breathtakingly-
for the annual wildebeest beautiful Sossusvlei and Uganda is better known for
migration, the zebra migration Damaraland are equally gorilla and chimpanzee trekking
in Chobe is just as impressive impressive. If you have a but don’t make the mistake
After decades of civil war yearning to escape to one of of dismissing it as an African
which saw poaching escalate the most remote and isolated safari destination. It boasts
at an alarming rate and corners of southern Africa The country offers wildlife untouched wilderness regions
wildlife numbers decimated, where animals have adapted and nature lovers a vast array that are simply spectacular and
Mozambique is back in to the harshest environment of safari destinations; from the renowned for their outstanding
contention as a premier safari on the continent, then a safari iconic Kruger National Park and biodiversity, unique animal
destination in southern Africa. tour of Namibia is the perfect world-famous private nature species and prolific bird life.
Government and international choice for you. reserves such as Londolozi, The landlocked country in East
intervention is driving world- MalaMala and Sabi Sands in the Africa offers adventure travellers
acclaimed wildlife conservation north to private game reserves incredible places to explore such
Continue to page 13Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020 13 Travel
as the snow-capped Rwenzori
Mountains, Lake Victoria and
Murchison Falls as well as the
iconic Bwindi Impenetrable
National Forest. Uganda is home
to four of the Big 5 (tragically
rhino is extinct in Uganda) and
the best place to see the famous
four are at Queen Elizabeth
National Park and Murchison
Falls National Park.
9. Zambia
Zambia for a safari holiday will
surprise and delight you. The
country doesn’t attract the same
attention as Botswana which can
The world has changed,
offer you the iconic Okavango
Delta but wildlife travellers
who know and love Zambia will
your determination hasn’t.
tell you it’s a topnotch safari
destination. To everyone using their creativity to still get things done, every day.
Wild, unfenced wilderness Your Africanacity inspires us.
regions and outstanding
wildlife sightings coupled with
low tourist numbers and far #WeLoveAfricanacity
more palatable price tags on #StaySafe
accommodation make Zambia
the new up-and-coming safari
destination in Africa. The two absa.co.bw
most popular safari destinations
in Zambia are South Luangwa
National Park and Lower Zambezi
National Park; best explored on
magical boat and canoe cruises.
10. Zimbabwe
Despite political and economic
turmoil in the country, you’ll
find that the remote areas of
Zimbabwe are still some of
the best safari destinations
in southern Africa. If you’re
travelling with US Dollars or
Pounds in your pocket, it’s the
most affordable country to visit
for the safari holiday of your
dreams.
The best town to base
yourself in is Victoria Falls for a
combination of wildlife, birding,
fishing, canoeing and the best
adrenalin-packed activities in
Africa. From there, you are a
10-minute walk from Victoria
Falls National Park, a short
drive from Stanley Livingstone
Private Game Reserve and a
scenic two-hour drive from the
rejuvenated and now hugely-
popular Hwange National Park.
If that is not enough, you can
book a safari day or overnight
tour to Chobe National Park in
Botswana.
Absa Bank Botswana Limited (registered number UIN BW00001237900) is regulated by the Bank of Botswana.
(Bizcom.)14 Sports Echo Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020
Sarah Essam
The Egyptian
Football Queen
In a country that has an endless easy one for the young girl. Sunderland, Derby County and change in the near future, since have a competitive tournament
passion for football, she proved She faced many difficulties to Birmingham City. I was about CAF is giving more attention to that gives the whole world a
herself as the first Egyptian realize her dream of becoming to sign with Derby County, but women football. I would love good impression about African
female footballer to ply her a professional footballer with in the last minute I had a call to play for my country again, women football”, she noted.
trade in England. many seeing football as a men from Stoke City manager and and also I hope Egypt will host Sarah won the 2018 Arab
The 21 years old Egyptian sport. we met together. He made me Africa Women Cup of Nations Woman of the Year: Achievement
wonder, Sarah Essam made “Of course, wearing those change my mind and I signed soon”, stated Sarah. in Sport award by the London
headlines back in 2017 when she football boots and walking with for Stoke instead. The talented striker sees better Arabia Organization. She was
became the first Arab woman to them in Egypt was a bit hard. “ T h e f i r s t d ay s we r e future for the women game in also part of the commentary
play in the FA Women Premier Also when I joined a group of unforgettable. I felt I am living Egypt, has the big clubs decided team for the 2019 Total Africa
League. She did not only join boys to play, most of them did my dream, but at the same time to adopt it. “To promote the Cup of Nations in Egypt. Most
Stoke City, but went further to not believe that a girl can play I wanted to push myself even game, we need to have women recently she participated
finish the season as her side’s football just like them or even more in everything. I did not teams in clubs like Al Ahly and in the launching of CAF
top scorer. better. I used to see the funny want to have the feeling that I Zamalek. These are the biggest Women’s Football Strategy,
“I had the dream of playing look that they do not want me reached the ultimate, but rather clubs in Africa and I believe #ItsTimeItsNow.
abroad from the very start and to play because I could ruin their to feel hungry for more. I still they have to play their role in “My message to African
I knew I have to work hard. I game. But this only made me feel the same,” she explained. order to put our game in a much women footballers is simple;
started playing in an academy insist more to play and change Sarah does not only play better place”. believe in you and never compare
and my parents used to pay their way of thinking”, she football in England, but she Sarah’s idea coincides with yourself to others. If people say
for my training. I took it very added. also studies Civil Engineering. CAF launching the Women you can’t do something, make
seriously and followed my After playing basketball for And in the same time she still Champions League in the this a motivation. Never say it’s
coach’s words, and one day I some time, Sarah decided to thinks of the women football continent, which she sees as too late because you can always
was chosen to join the junior concentrate more on football. future back in her country. a brilliant perspective. work harder. Struggling means
team which means I do not And finally, she finally realized “It was a great honor for me to “We have many talents in you are on the right track so
have to pay anymore. Then I her dream of being the first represent my country in such a Africa and having a Champions never give up and keep going
became the youngest player Egyptian woman to play abroad. young age. Unfortunately, our League is something we until you make yourself proud”,
to be chosen for the first team. “In 2017 I was playing for Wadi national team didn’t take part deserve. But I believe there concluded The Egyptian Queen,
My plan was going on the right Degla and one day I had an offer in international football since should be specific criteria for as nicknamed by her club Stoke
direction.” to do trials in England with 2016. I’m optimistic this will the participating clubs, so as to City fans. (TheConversation)
Knowing well what she wants
to do, Sarah started training
three times daily! She continued
training with the academy team
while also having sessions with
the Junior and First teams at
the same time.
“People called me crazy, but
I didn’t care. The coaches told
me to train with the first team
only, but I refused as I needed
to train more. My dream was
to have a chance in Europe.”
Her hard work started to bear
fruits when she was recalled
to the Egypt U-17 national
team, then became one of the
youngest players to don the
“Lady Pharaohs” shirt.
But the journey was not anEcho Newspaper 17 - 23 August 2020 Sports 15
“Our objective is to develop
women’s football and spread
its practice in all the regions
of the kingdom,” said FRMF
president Fouzi Lekjaa during
the presentation of the
convention.
“This is an important step
to allow female talents to
practice this popular sport in
good conditions and to give
them the opportunity to start
and pursue their professional
career.”
Also, the new plan aims at
supporting the management
of clubs on the administrative
and financial level through
training and support provided
by the Technical Directorate
and the FRMF’s Department
of Finance.
Women’s football will be
entitled to funding of up to
$130,000 for the top flight
Morocco signs convention to uplift
league clubs and $86,000
for the second division to
support the remuneration of
women’s football
players and technical staff on
a monthly basis.
FRMF women’s football
director and head coach of
T h e Roya l M o r o c c a n practice in all the regions of the technical staff on a monthly and Youth Championship. the national team, Kelly
Football Federation (FRMF) kingdom,” said FRMF president basis. Lindsey, describes this plan as
has announced the launch Fouzi Lekjaa during the FRMF women’s football T h e Roya l M o r o c c a n a revolution that is taken place
a women’s first and second presentation of the convention. director and head coach of Football Federation (FRMF) to promote the female game
division professional league “This is an important step the national team, Kelly has announced the launch “We are excited to take on the
from next season after signing to allow female talents to Lindsey, describes this plan as a women’s first and second biggest challenges, especially to
a new convention with the practice this popular sport in a revolution that is taken place division professional league ensure girls and women have an
National Women’s League to good conditions and to give to promote the female game from next season after signing equal opportunity to develop
take women’s football to a new them the opportunity to start “We are excited to take on the a new convention with the and grow within the game, and
level. and pursue their professional biggest challenges, especially to National Women’s League to to take the time to educate and
Apart from the two tiers of career.” ensure girls and women have an take women’s football to a new empower great leaders of the
women’s league football, FRMF Also, the new plan aims at equal opportunity to develop level. female game, for now and for
will also establish a national supporting the management and grow within the game, and Apart from the two tiers of the future,” Lindsey said.
U-17 championship in addition of clubs on the administrative to take the time to educate and women’s league football, FRMF The convention aims to
to regional championships for and financial level through empower great leaders of the will also establish a national increase the number of female
different youth categories across training and support provided female game, for now and for U-17 championship in addition football practitioners to 90,000
the country. by the Technical Directorate the future,” Lindsey said. to regional championships for by 2024, train 10,000 technical
The announcement comes and the FRMF’s Department The convention aims to different youth categories across executives in women’s football
barely few weeks after the of Finance. increase the number of female the country. clubs and promote the level of
launch of the first ever CAF Women’s football will be football practitioners to 90,000 The announcement comes the National Pro Championship,
Women’s Football Strategy, a entitled to funding of up to by 2024, train 10,000 technical barely few weeks after the Regional League Championship
plan to take the women’s game $130,000 for the top flight executives in women’s football launch of the first ever CAF and Youth Championship.
to the next level. league clubs and $86,000 for clubs and promote the level of Women’s Football Strategy, a
“Our objective is to develop the second division to support the National Pro Championship, plan to take the women’s game (Cafonline.)
women’s football and spread its the remuneration of players and Regional League Championship to the next level.
Kiester returns as
Leone Stars coach
Sierra Leone on Monday (10 Mckinstry and Sellas Tetteh from
August 2020) appointed former Sweden, Northern Ireland and
midfielder John Kiester as Head Ghana respectively.
coach of Leone Stars for a second Kiester, who announced his
spell. His contract runs until retirement from active football
2023. in 2011, earned 16 caps with the
The 49-year-old will be Leone Stars between 1997 and
assisted by compatriots Amidu 2003, has experience from the
Karim and Dominic Junior Sierra Leonean youth teams
Konneh, and have been tasked having handled the U-17 and
with guiding the Leone Stars to U-23 teams.
the Total Africa Cup of Nations Meanwhile, Abdulai Kaloga
Cameroon 2021. Bah has been appointed head
“We are here representing coach of the senior national
Sierra Leone and we will do our women’s team whilst Victoria
job the best way in developing Conteh, who made history by
our nation’s football,” Kiester becoming the first female to
said at his unveiling in Freetown. coach in the Sierra Leonean top
Previously, he was at the flight after being named coach
helm of Leone Stars in May 2017 of East End Tigers in December
after deputizing for previous 2019, will handle the Women’s
coaches Lars O. Matsson, Johnny U-20 team.Sport
THE AFRICAN STORY
17 - 23 AUGUST 2020 Echo Newspaper
African
Champions
on European
Grounds
After a long exceptional season Percy Tau (South Africa) and their winning squad, including (Angola) all helped Olympiacos As Young Boys retained their
that witnessed long stoppage Clinton Mata (Angola). Gabonese skipper Pierre-Emerick to the title. Swiss Super League title, they had
in some countries, and even Aubameuang and Ivoirian Nicolas five African players taking place
cancelling competitions in others Cup: Antwerp Pepe. Italy on the road to glory. Cameroonian
because of COVID-19 pandemic, Royal Antwerp win Belgian Aubameyang was undoubtedly Cup: Napoli forward Jean-Pierre Nsame was
finally the 2019-20 season of Cup for the third time in their Arsenal’s hero, having scored a The Italian south side had two their top hit, scoring 32 goals in as
European football was concluded, history; claiming their first trophy brace in the semifinal and another African defenders taking part in many matches and finishing the
with some African players leaving since 1992. Eight African players in the final, guiding Mikel Arteta’s their victorious campaign, in season as league’s top scorer. The
their mark with their respective participated in the campaign, led side to their season saving title. the form of Senegal’s Kalidou others are Nsame’s compatriot
teams. by DR Congo prolific forward Koulibaly and Algeria’s Faouzi Nicolas Moumi Nfamaleu,
Dieumerci Mbokani. The others France Ghoulam. Guinea’s Mohamed Camara, DR
Austria were his compatriot Luet Ava League & Cup: Paris Saint Congo’s Meschak Elia and Cote
League & Cup: Red Bull Dongo, Cameroon trio Didier Germain Portugal d’Ivoire’s Roger Assale who was
Salzburg Lamkel Ze, Frank Boya and Martin The French League (Ligue 1) League & Cup: Porto loaned to Spanish side Leganes
Six African players won the Hongla, Senegal duo Abdoulaye was the first of the top European It was a remarkable season in January.
domestic double with Red Seck and Amara Baby, and leagues to be annulled because for FC Porto who claimed the
Bull Salzburg this season. Nigerian Junior Pius. of COVID-19 pandemic. The domestic double securing Turkey
Cameroonian defender Jerome title was handed on points per Portuguese League and Cup League: Istanbul Basaksehir
Onguene, Ghanaian midfielder England game (PPG) rule to Paris Saint titles. The Dragons had six Istanbul Basaksehir celebrated
Majeed Ashimeru, Malian duet League: Liverpool Germain (PSG) who were topping African players playing their their maiden Turkish League glory
Sekou Koita and Mohamed The Reds ended a 30 years the charts when the league was role in their victorious season, this season. Basaksehir had three
Camara, and Zambian pair of drought when they won their stopped. including Senegalese goalkeeper African players to thank in their
Enock Mwepu and Patson Daka 19th English Premier League title PSG completed the domestic Mouhamed Mbaye, his compatriot glorious campaign, in the form
all played roles in seeing the this season. Under the guidance of double by adding French Cup Mamadou Loum, Mali’s Moussa of Senegal’s Demba Ba, Nigeria’s
Salzburg based side winning Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool finished later on in the season. Two African Marega, Cameroon’s Vincent Azubuike Okechukwu and Cape
Austrian Bundesliga and The the season on top, securing the players claimed the double with Aboubakar, Cape Verde’s Ze Verde’s Carlos Ponck.
ÖFB-Cup. title with seven games to spare. PSG in the form of Senegal’s Luis and DR Congo’s defender
As usual in the past couple of Idrissa Gueya and Cameroon’s Chancel Mbemba, who had a Cup: Trabzonspor
Belgium seasons, Liverpool are thankful Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting. glorious season finale scoring a Trabzonspor won their 9th
League: Club Brugge to the efforts of their top stars, brace in the Cup final to see Porto Turkish Cup title, with the help
The Belgian First Division A including Egypt’s Mohamed Greece completing the double. of African players including
season was cancelled due to Salah and Senegal’s Sadio Mane. League: Olympiacos Morocco’s Manuel da Costa,
COVID-19 outbreak, but it was Naby Keita (Guinea) and Joel Olympiacos extended their Scotland Senegal’s Badou Ndiaye, Ghana’s
decided that Club Brugge would Matip (Cameroon) complete record in Greek Super League, League: Celtic Caleb Ekuban and Nigeria’s
be handed the title, having topped the Africans in the Champions’ winning their 45th title this Celtic won their 51st Scottish Anthony Nwakaeme. Nigerian
the charts with 70 points, 15 lineup. season. On their road to glory, Premier League title, with 80 duet John Obi Mikel and Ogenyi
more than second placed Gent Salah scored 19 goals, one more 9 African players took part with points from 30 games, 13 more Onazi took part in some games
when the season was annulled. A than Mane in the League. The the Red Whites, although some than arch rivals Rangers. before leaving the club in mid-
total of 11 African players had the African Liverpool quartet capped of them only appeared in the first Ivoirian forward Vakoun season.
champions’ medals with Brugge, an amazing season that saw The half of the season. Issouf Bayo took place in The
including Senegalese quartet of Reds also winning UEFA Super Algerian duo Hillal Soudani Celts campaign, scorig twice Ukraine
Amdou Sagna, Krepin Diatta, Cup and FIFA Club World Cup. and Yassine Benzia, Senegal’s in 16 appearances, while his Cup: Dynamo Kyiv
Mbaye Diagne and Youssouph duet Ousseynou Ba and Pape compatriot Ismaila Soro who Giants Dynamo Kyiv claimed
Badji, Ivoirian duo Simon Deli Cup: Arsenal Abou Cisse, along with Mady joined in January did not feature their 12th Ukrainian Cup title,
and Odilon Kossounou, and The Gunners extended their Camara (Guinea), Youssef El in any game. with Ghana’s Mohamed Kadiri
Nigerian duet David Okereke record in FA Cup winning Arabi (Morocco), Ahmed Hassan and Nigerian Benito making the
and Emmanuel Dennis. The others their 14th title this season. “Koka” (Egypt), Yassine Meriah Switzerland squad during the season.
are Sofyan Amrabat (Morocco), Arsenal had two Africans in (Tunisia) and Bruno Gaspar League: Young BoysYou can also read
