PAN AFRICAN VISIONS D.R.Congo: Turning Point For
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PAN AFRICAN VISIONS
MARKETING AFRICAN SUCCESS STORIES & MORE
MAG 0221 Vol III, FEB. 2021. www.panafricanvisions.com
D.R.Congo: Turning Point For
Tshisekedi
AU:
Will Faki Make or Mar In
Second Term?
Sierra Leone:
Kaifala’s Tough But Winnable
War On Corruption
Biden And Africa:
Time For A Concrete Agenda
Special Report: Ethiopia:
Jack Ma Foundation’s Ambassador Arega Sets
ABH Awards In Focus The Record Straight
PAN-AFRICAN PRO-AFRICAN www.centurionlg.com
Contents PAN AFRICAN VISIONs
C O N T E N T S
A Second Term For Faki At The AU: Will He Make or Mar?__________2 Q and A with Dr. Andrew Nkoyoyo On The Power of Miracles________35
Moussa Faki Reelected Unopposed as Chairperson of the African Union For Prophet Lovy 2021 A Year Of Walking With The Presence Of God__37
Commission__________________________________________4
Debunking Covid-19 Myths and Facts as Africa Starts Rolling Out Vac-
Expect More Positives: Moussa :Faki Buoyant As He Starts Second Term As cines _______________________________________________ 39
AUC Chairperson ______________________________________5
Zimbabwe: A Heavy Toll on Top Government Officials _____________40
Nigeria: Succession playing Out As Buhari Stutters_______________8
From COVID 19_______________________________________40
Can New Majority in Parliament allow Tshisekedi to turn DR Congo around
SPECIAL REPORT: A Lifeline for African Entrepreneurs from the Jack Ma
?__________________________________________________10
Foundation ABH Awards _________________________________43
DRC: Joseph Kabila Has Nothing Else To Offer, It’s Time For Tshisekedi-
We Hope To Spark A Movement Around Entrepreneurship In Africa-Zahra
Eloge Mwandwe_______________________________________11
Baitie ______________________________________________45
Kenya: Ruto's hurdles ahead of 2022 polls_____________________14
ABH Helps In Highlighting The Brilliance, Determination & Capabilities of
Ethiopia is Waxing Strong In Face of Multiple Challenges-Ambassador Africans- Chebet Lesan from Kenya,2020 Winner._______________47
Arega______________________________________________16
The ABH Experience Was Both Challenging And Gratifying- Oluwasoga
Ghana: The "Escapades of Junior Jesus "- Jerry John Rawlings_______20 Oni from Nigeria, 1st Runner Up.___________________________48
Sierra Leone: Anti-Corruption Crusade Gathers Steam Under Kaifala__23 A Lifetime Experience for Me -2nd Runner Up Ethel Mupambwa from Zim-
babwe______________________________________________50
Mozambique:Terrorists Threaten $50bn LNG Projects. ____________25
Young Agri-Entreprenuer Making Waves in Zimbabwe ____________51
Biden and Africa: Time for a concrete agenda___________________28
Cameroon Film Industry Gets New Life with Fisherman's Diary______53
Americans Of African Descent Must Be Considered For Assistant Secretary
Of State For Africa_____________________________________30 City Of Harare Awaits Proclamation Of Wetland City Accreditation Status
To Enhance Sustainable Development________________________55
Relief for African Muslim-majority nations as Biden Lifts Muslim Travel
Ban _______________________________________________31 CHAN 2020: Morocco Defends its Crown, as Cameroon Credited for a
Beautiful Organization__________________________________56
Cameroon Anglophone Crisis: A Legacy On The Line For Cardinal Tumi_32
CHAN 2020: A Yardstick for Upcoming Major Tournaments_________58
Pan African Visions
Managing Editor Adama Makasuba, Graphic Designer
Ajong Mbapndah L Bah Uzman Unis, Atemnkeng Jerry M,
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7614 Green Willow Court, Hyattsville, MD Contributors Pierre Afadhali EC designs, Abudhabi - UAE
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PAV - APR. 2019 - MAG 0419 Vol 3 1
PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa
A Second Term For Faki At The AU: Will He Make or Mar?
By Ajong Mbapndah L
R
eactions to the election of a strong presence and mechanisms to attract
Moussa Faki to a second term conspicuous voice in the creative genius
as Chairman of the African Washington. While the and resourcefulness of
Union Commission have been mixed. AUC Chair may have a diaspora eager and
For all the lofty achievements listed been in his right to willing to come on board
in his re-election manifesto, his first replace the Ambassador .
term had a couple of blemishes which Arikana, the decision Leading the AU is no
left quite a dent. did not go well and the easy feat, the issues are
From the African Continental embers of the raucous complex, the challenges
Free Trade Agreement, AfCFTA, to between the AU and are many and the
the launching of the African Union the diaspora are still to resources are still scarce.
passport, the AU Peace Fund and completely dissipate. Even those who do not
the robust continental wide response Free from the shackles like Faki have to come
to COVID 19, the first term of of electoral calculations, to terms with the fact
Moussa Faki had quite some positive Moussa Faki has the that he is at the helm
developments for the continent. potential to make the for another four years.
Where these enough for him to get second mandate even If he succeeds, Africa
a second term? For African leaders, more eventful than succeeds, and if he fails,
with 51 out of 55 votes, it was a the first. Touted as a Africa fails. Hopefully
resounding endorsement for Faki. game changer for the Ajong Mbapndah L, Managing Editor
he succeeds and delivers
For ordinary and everyday Africans continent, it is under on the promises he has
there seems to be a healthy dose of Faki’s watch that the AfCFTA has French fighting , it is about time the made for his second term or atleast
skepticism. taken off. For all the excitement, AU gets bullish on conflict resolution. continue with reforms that could
There are many reasons for the people are not lost to the fact that the Expectations will be high from make a difference.
dichotomy in perceptions, chief undoing of the African Union has also impatient Africans who think the Amongst the numerous partners
amongst them the image of a club been the absence of a political will to challenges of the times, require willing to help in making a difference
of old leaders who cater first and follow through on visions. The fear is more robust leadership. People is the Jack Ma Foundation which is
foremost for their own interest. By that let the AfCFTA not turn out to be are waiting to see progress on the using the African Business Heroes
fate or design, the AU has done little one those. continental passport, they are Awards to build a strong network of
to shed this image. Though not Talking about the political will eager to see Africa take charge of entrepreneurs across the continent.
probably of his making, many people to follow through on lofty goals, its security challenges; they want to In its second year now, circa $2.5
question the fact that Moussa Faki many are still waiting for the AU see a leadership that prioritizes the million has been distributed to young
ran unopposed for a second term. to show more backbone in the interests of everyday Africans and not entrepreneurs across the continent.
To hardline critics, this only mirrors implementation of the Protocol on that of special interests. Mr. Faki may From three different countries, in
what election in a number of African Free Movement of Persons and the not be a miracle worker to deliver on three different regions, two females
countries with sit tight leaders look Pan African Passport in particular. everything, but there is a minimum and one male, with projects ranging
like. The plan was to have the passport he can do to earn the trust, respect from renewable energy, health and
Through out his first term, the AU ready for use by 2020.The AU has and confidence of skeptic Africans. micro finances, the top three laureates
stayed mute to questionable elections not made good on that promise. How A joker waiting to be used for the 2020 edition sum up the challenges
that took place in several countries. will the AfCFTA function well when good of the continent is its Diaspora. and hopes of a continent .This issue of
From Cameroon, to Guinea, Cote people cannot move freely across the For all the potential it represents, the magazine takes a look at the ABH
d’Ivoire, the AU Chair Faki have been continent? When people like Aliko the Diaspora has been willing to awards and the ground breaking
on unequivocal in their support of Dangote complain, about the hassles fully contribute in moving the impact it is having.
the incumbents. To pro-democracy of traveling across Africa, then what continent forward but the response This issue of the magazine also
activists across the continent, Faki is the ordinary African goes through can from the continental body has been takes a look at the changing political
no friend of theirs and did not deserve be anyone’s guess. Getting concrete discouraging. Is the 6th region label dynamics in the D.R.Congo with
a second term. results on the African passport could lumped on the diaspora just a cliché? President Tshisekedi taking the upper
In the course of his first term bolster the legacy of Faki. If it is not, Chairman Faki has to hand, prospects for U.S -African
as well, the diaspora, a bloc with Conflict resolution remains one of engage with the diaspora in a more ties in the Biden Administration,
enormous potential to positively the areas where the AU has faced a lot forceful way for the kind of impactful understanding the crisis in Ethiopia’s
impact development in the continent of challenges. In the Central African contributions that can come from Tigray Region, the fight against
was highly critical of the dismissal region where Faki hails from, the them. The diaspora has been a corruption in Sierra Lone, threats to
of the AU Ambassador to the USA Cameroon Anglophone crisis have strong part of economic progress the Gas industry in Mozambique, and
in October of 2019. Hugely popular been raging on for some four years, and development in Asia and South more. Happy Reading!!
with the diaspora and very vocal, in the Central African Republic it is America, there is no reason at this
Dr Arikana Chimbori gave the AU chaos, in parts of the Sahel it is the point why Africa should not work out
2 PAV - FEB. 2021 - MAG 0221 Vol III
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PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa
Moussa Faki Reelected Unopposed as Chairperson of the
African Union Commission
By Prince Kurupati
T
he former Chadian Prime
Minister Moussa Faki
Mahamat was recently
reelected as the Chairperson of the
African Union Commission. In doing
so, Moussa Faki made history as the
first person to be reelected as the
Chairperson of the AU Commission.
Running unopposed, the former
Chadian Prime Minister garnered 51
out of 55 votes in a secret ballot to
enter into his second final term as the
Chairperson of the AU Commission.
The AU Commission elections
happened on Saturday 6 February
2021, during the 34th African Union
Summit. Owing to the unprecedented
corona virus pandemic, the 34th
African Union Summit was held Basking in adulation after his victory .51 out of 55 members supported Mr Faki in his second
term bid as AU Chair.
virtually with the leaders of all 55
member states as well as their foreign Faki said he was “deeply humbled During the same Summit, and livelihoods. The current second
ministers/delegates present. by the overwhelming and historic elections were also held for other AU wave of the pandemic which engulfs
Moussa Faki’s reelection will see vote of confidence by AU Member Commission positions including the the continent is leaving behind lots
him serve as the AU Commission States by voting 51 out 55 to extend new set of commissioners and that of dead people. In the process, it’s
Chairperson for the next four years. my mandate at the helm of the AUC of deputy chairperson. Rwanda’s also disrupting livelihoods for the
Speaking on his triumph on Twitter, Commission for another 4 years.” Dr Monique Nsanzabaganwa who survivors thus ushering in double
is the deputy governor of the jeopardy. There is of course the threat
National Bank of Rwanda won of an imminent 3rd wave which may
the deputy chairperson race. In as well be more devastating than the
a Twitter post after her triumph, 1st and 2nd waves. Faced with all
Dr Monique Nsanzabaganwa these challenges, Moussa Faki, Dr
said, “My very sincere gratitude Monique Nsanzabaganwa have it all
and appreciation for the trust to do from the onset.
and honor that the Heads of At the present moment, many
States and Government of the countries across the globe are battling
African Union have bestowed on to secure Covid-19 vaccines. In
my country and in my person. I the case of Africa however, several
commit to serve with dedication reports have indicated that the
and to the best of my ability continent finds itself at the bottom
under your wise guidance.” of the ladder of a grossly unequal
For Moussa Faki, Dr Monique distribution of Covid-19 vaccines.
Nsanzabaganwa and the Malcolm Webb of Al Jazeera states
new set of AU Commission that “Experts estimate that the richest
commissioners, there really is no countries will have vaccinated most of
time to celebrate their victories their populations at some point later
as they have to come up with this year, and that the world’s poorest
long-lasting solutions to the countries – many of which are in this
threats facing the entire African continent (Africa) – will not vaccinate
continent. They all know very the same amount of their population
well the devastating impacts until maybe three years from now
that the novel corona virus or possible never at all.” Faced with
Dr Monique Nsanzabaganwa from Rwanda is the new AUC pandemic has brought about on such a dim outlook, Moussa Faki
Deputy Chair.
the continent disrupting lives and his new team will have to work
4 PAV - FEB. 2021 - MAG 0221 Vol III
Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs
near-miracles to ensure the continent has to worry about. The continent measures to address the continent’s villagers in that region. The threat in
moves at par with other developed is still bedeviled by several conflicts socio and political problems. the Mozambique poses a new threat
nations. The AU Chairperson knows which are hindering continental At the present moment, there are in a region that constantly reels under
himself the task ahead as he stated development on the socio-economic two socio-political problems which electoral violence conflicts.
that “There is vaccine nationalism as well as political front. Instances of need urgent attention. Up north, At the same Summit, the president
on the rise, with other rich countries electoral violence are still reported in the Anglophone Crises in Cameroon of the Democratic Republic of Congo
jumping the queue, some even pre- many countries across the continent is showing no signs of coming to an Felix Tshisekedi assumed the year-
ordering more that they require,” while cases of abuse of human rights end in the near future. However, the long chairmanship of the African
in an interview before the Summit. and Islamist extremism violence is number of people who are dying, those Union. Addressing fellow Heads
Against this background, Moussa on the rise. The new AU Commission disposed and those whose livelihoods of State, the DRC president said
Faki as he stated will have to come up team will therefore, need to find ways have been affected by the crises is in his tenure as the AU Chair, he
with great strategies and initiatives to to bring these conflicts to an end. huge such that an urgent intervention plans to focus on climate change,
“correct the glaring inequality in fiscal The frontrunner for the AU’s newly is needed to prevent further damage. fighting sexual violence, promoting
stimulus measures between advanced merged political affairs and peace Down south, there is a rising security the African Continental Free Trade
economies and the rest of the world.” and security department Bankole crises in northern Mozambique Area and accelerating the DRC based
It’s not just the threat of the corona Adeoye from Nigeria will have the ushered in by Islamist extremists Grand Inga Hydropower Project.
virus pandemic that Moussa Faki all-important task of coming up with who are reported to kill mercilessly
Expect More Positives: Moussa :Faki Buoyant As He
Starts Second Term As AUC Chairperson
By Amos Fofung
Moussa Faki Mahamat - Photo Credit: African Union
A
s African leaders took time to on the continent hence the reason Faki Mahamat. Though involved in a Winning comfortably with 51 out
deliberate on issues affecting African leaders are so determined to one-man race, Moussa Faki had it all of the 55 votes cast, one thing which
the continent during the 34th choose right candidates for the job. to do as he could only win a second managed to help Moussa Faki to win
Summit of the African Union, they Several candidates were in the term if he garnered at least two-thirds his reelection bid were the numerous
spared some time to cast votes to running for different positions as of the votes cast. Luckily for him, he successes recorded by the AU during
choose the person to lead the African the position of the AU Commission managed to do that and he won the his first four years at the helm of the
Union Commission for the next four Chairperson, deputy Chairperson as race in doing so breaking history AU Commission. Moussa Faki, the
years. The African Union Commission well as Commissioners all needed as he managed to become the first man who was at one point the Prime
is AU’s secretariat which undertakes to be filled. In the Chairperson race, Chairperson of the African Union Minister of Chad stated himself that
the day to day activities of the union. there was only one candidate in the Commission to be reelected for a during his first term, the continent
As such, it plays an important role race that is, the incumbent Moussa second and last term. underwent many positives “both
PAV - FEB. 2021 - MAG 0221 Vol III 5
PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa
in terms of economic and social Trade Area (AfCFTA) as well as the continent over the years still “How come, that four years
development of our Member States, the Protocol on Free Movement linger around and Faki faces a huge down the line, at this same time,
both individually and as a bloc. In of Persons, the right of residence task of eradicating them. Shrinking we are having only one candidate,
view of the achievements made by the and the right of establishment and of democratic space, corruption, and people are telling us that that
AU during the same period, a second the introduction of a Pan African mismanagement, the fragility of is representative enough? If three
look at the outcomes is enlightening Passport in February 2019. To States and conflict factors such as wasn’t representative enough, how
for more than one reason.” encourage greater cooperation and electoral violence, unconstitutional can one be representative enough?
When he was elected for the first trade amongst African countries, the changes of government and extension How can we go this way when we are
time, he took charge of a Commission African Union during Moussa Faki’s of Presidential term limits are the preaching democracy throughout all
which was under heavy criticism first term launched in January 2018 major problems that Faki is expected the 55 African countries? When are
owing to its strong bureaucratic the Single African Air Transport to address. we telling the people of Africa that
nature. His first task, therefore, was Market (SAATM), an initiative known To address the socio-economic we want to go the democratic way, ?”
to change the negative perception as «Africa’s Open Skies», which and political problems facing the Sarfo questioned
charactering the institution. He did establishes a single unified market African continent, Faki speaking The AU Chair also faced criticism
this by implementing institutional through the liberalization of the before his reelection said he will for not doing enough to root out
reforms. Working in unison airspace in Africa. An initiative which remain dependent on the decisions violent extremists in the Lake Chad
with Rwandan President Paul according to watchers of the economy and policies as determined and Basin and across the country.
Kagame, Moussa Faki oversaw the will foster economic integration adopted by the sovereign organs From the Anglophone crisis in
restructuring of the organization by program of the Continent. of the Union. In his capacity Cameroon to the conflict in Central
enhancing the “working methods of As his term was coming to an end, however, as the Chairperson of the Africa, the AU has been found wanting
the Union with the establishment of the continent like others worldwide AU Commission, Faki said he will in providing leadership for lasting
a Coordination Summit instead of the witnessed the arrival of an unwanted prioritize the following: finalize the solutions. The continental body has
Ordinary one of July, the Division of guest by the name corona virus. At institutional reform and strengthen equally done little to shed the image
Labour between the Commission and the helm of the AU, Moussa Faki was the leadership of the Commission, in many minds that it is nothing but a
the Regional Economic Communities faced with the insurmountable task enhance administrative and financial club of leaders who protect their own
(RECs), the financing of the of drafting strategies to mitigate the accountability, spread the ‘Silence interests and not those of the people.
Organization and the implementation impacts of the virus both on the lives the Guns’ initiative on the whole Using the examples of silence from
of budgetary reforms.” and livelihoods’ front. Suffice to say, continent, execute successfully the AU in the face of electoral short
Just like his predecessor Nkosazana Moussa Faki did a remarkable job as key integration projects, food self- comings in Uganda, Cote d’Ivoire,
Dhlamini-Zuma from South Africa, he partnered with Africa CDC to come sufficiency, reduce poverty by building Guinea and others, critics fault Faki
Moussa Faki during his term up with the Continental Response resilience through Agriculture and for not doing enough to support or
was faced with a myriad of socio- Strategy for COVID-19. Through the Blue Economy, protect the advance democratic causes in Africa.
economic and political problems. the Continental Response Strategy environment, operationalize policies
On this front, he did come up with for COVID-19, the AU managed in favor of youth and women, Still, many are those who think that
various initiatives all of which have to set up the Response Fund, stimulate African thought on the the success of Moussa Faki as he starts
managed to bear some fruit. On the implement effective advocacy for debt obvious determining factors of crises his second term as AUC Chairperson
political front, Faki came up with cancellation, and set up the Medical and continue to renew strategic hinges upon establishing, renewing
the ‘Silence the Guns’ initiative, an supplies Platform initiative. partnerships. and strengthening strategic
initiative “geared at recognizing the The successes recorded by the Though not likely of his making, partnerships. A second term means
fact peace and security is a crucial continental body with Faki at the running unopposed is something that Mr. Faki could be has the
dimension, and that setting it as an helm have strengthened Faki’s faith some Africans questioned .Sarfo opportunity to focus on his legacy in
objective is an essential condition and optimism as he looks ahead to his Abebrese, author of a petition by the lieu of electoral calculations. There
for the AU’s development goals.” On second term. Despite the successes, Coalition of Supporters Unions of will be little room for excuses if he
the socio-economic front, working Faki knows too well the challenges Africa, said the AU postponed the fails to put the AU on a way higher
with leaders from AU member states, that lie ahead but is buoyant that the vote four years ago when there were pedestal than it is today.
the former Chadian Prime Minister African Union will continue to record only three candidates for that seat.
fast tracked the establishment more successes in the next four years. At the time, the AU said that was not
of the African Continental Free Age old challenges that have bedeviled enough.
6 PAV - FEB. 2021 - MAG 0221 Vol III
Inside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs
PAV - FEB. 2021 - MAG 0221 Vol III 7
PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa
Nigeria: Succession playing Out As Buhari
Stutters
By Richard Mammah
28
months to the close
of his second term
presidency, the
Muhammadu Buhari administration
in Nigeria continues to wobble
through one challenge or the other.
It is like a case of one day one
trouble with the local media being
daily awash with one piece of bad
news or the other. From issues of
insecurity to issues related to the
yet troubled economy and on to the
continuing incidence of corruption,
the headlines clearly point to the fact
that much more needs to be done.
Ironically, security, the economy and
tackling corruption were the flagship
campaign planks of the Buhari
In the face of so many challenges, Nigerians have not found leadership in President Buhari.
presidency in 2015. And even as it had
gone on to clinch a second term, the a loss as to what the party would be and again. Buhari’s chief opponent in the
street verdict largely is that neither offering the Nigerian people next. In addition, he would not do live 2019 polls, former Vice President
the promise of change nor that to take Despite having massively media chats and often reads prepared Atiku Abubakar is like him also a
the nation to the next level presently decapitated the main opposition speeches or is spoken for by one or Northern Muslim but hails from the
stand a chance of being met. Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, more of a battery of aides from the North Eastern State of Adamawa. It
At sober moments, even which lost one of its governors to the ubiquitous Presidency. Asked to is believed that he would be making
administration officials, the President ruling party recently, the ruling party explain this distance, presidential a pitch for the position once again.
included, concede that much more is heavily factionalised under the aide, Femi Adesina puts it to the But he is having immense challenges
should be done. But they also become table and there continue to be strong President’s personal style. He does convincing even some who voted for
even more passionate when they internal infighting over both policy not just talk much. him in 2019 as to why power should
very energetically situate their prime and political direction. Succession blues yet remain in the North. A second
challenge as arising out of the failings One example of this came to the In the midst of these, political snag on Atiku’s way is age. He is 74
of the previous administration. They fore recently when the Presidency contenders interested in succeeding and the median age is 18.1.
equally lambast critics for not giving and the Ondo State Government, President Buhari have begun to There is also former House
the administration enough credit for both controlled by the ruling party, make faint moves and noises. At the of Representatives speaker and
its efforts and initiatives. were locked in a war of words over same time, a number of issues and incumbent Governor of Sokoto state,
However, the critics are not how to address the challenge of personalities that are expected to Aminu Tambuwal who had been
backing down and contend that nomadic herdsmen. While the Ondo star in the forthcoming contest are ‘frightened’ out of the race for the All
the administration suffers from a State Government insisted that already being identified. Progressives Congress presidential
chronic crisis of leadership capacity undocumented herders must no The first is the issue of geography. ticket by Team Buhari in 2014 and
that is very well traceable to its early longer be permitted to encroach on Where would the next President also defeated by Atiku in 2018 in
beginnings: the vision and capacity the state’s forest reserves and should come from? Buhari is a Northern the contest for the PDP ticket. His
challenges that began to manifest therefore be ejected, the Presidency Muslim from the North West. One first challenge this time is also going
when Buhari spent almost a half riposted that the sub-national likely candidate whose name made to be geography. He is a North West
year in putting together his initial government had no right to so order. the rounds earlier in the day as Muslim like Buhari at a time when the
leadership team. Eventually, a truce of sorts was regards the Buhari succession was mood is stridently pro-South.
Since then, there have been arranged. But the genie had already Kaduna Governor, Nasir El Rufai. But Another Northern player who gets
other points of criticism, including walked out. coming from the same demographics mentioned sparingly is former INEC
accusations of nepotism and Indeed, things have not been as Buhari in a country that is much boss, Attahiru Jega. A relatively
favouritism. helped by the President’s near-total sold on the notion of power shift is a decent political science teacher,
Indeed the crisis has even muddied absence on the plain field as he has hurdle. There are also other hurdles Jega is linked to the PRP, one of the
the succession waters with even literally been confined to his Aso Rock that include questions about diversity smaller political party formations in
leading lights of the ruling All fortress for months, with Nigerians management and insecurity in his the country whose main driver and
Progressives Congress, APC still at only seeing him on television now home state. former Governor of Kaduna State,
8 PAV - FEB. 2021 - MAG 0221 Vol IIIInside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs
Balarabe Musa passed on several practices; and that to play its history-
months back. Given that the PRP assigned role as a leader in Africa, the
clearly does not have the muscle, most populous nation in the continent
bite and resource base to prosecute needs to have the most robust
nationwide polls, the thinking is that leadership it can find and afford.
Jega is being packaged as a back- And there is seeming consensus that
up card for other more elaborate achieving that would involve an even
permutations that are yet to publicly more comprehensive systems reset
unfold. that would take along ingredients
From the South South, former like a wholesale restructuring of the
President Goodluck Jonathan has country, fiscal federalism, devolution
been mooted as a possible draftee, of power, a new constitution and a
and perhaps one on the APC slate popular referendum. Indeed, they
APC Chieftain Ahmed Bola Tinubu is one those considered
this time around. The idea here is say that Nigeria needs more than a
as a likely replacement for Buhari when he leaves office.
that having already served a full term towering President, a strongman that
in office and being one that has not June 12 1993 polls, Bashorun MKO Olusegun Obasanjo trounced the very everyone looks in his direction to fix
really demonstrated any penchant to Abiola and former Vice President apparent regional choice, Olu Falae, the country’s many challenges.
rock the Northern boat, his return Atiku Abubakar. Indeed, in Nigeria’s suggests that non-regional actors Given the long held opposition of
to office would be a short cooling off history, not being seen as wealthy, could sometimes hold the aces. President Buhari and his close circle
period in a nation where the tensions has a way of enhancing the political From the South East PDP, one of to the need for these changes, what
of the 1914 amalgamation are not fortunes and stature of candidates the probable candidates is former is therefore coming to the fore now
easing off. as had been the case with the likes Anambra Governor, Peter Obi. But is that about the best that the 2023
Also from the South South zone of Tafawa Balewa, Shehu Shagari, he would have to persuade his co- presidential polls could indeed offer
is the rumoured aspiration of Aminu Kano, Balarabe Musa and travellers in the political class who is an opportunity to vote around these
Rivers Governor and current PDP even the incumbent President. Would had opposed even his emergence as issues. And therein is the hope, in
strongman, Nyesom Wike. It is said Tinubu be Nigeria’s Berlusconi? VP candidate in 2019 to drop their that sense, for those who are waiting
that he is presently in agreement with But that is not all that Tinubu has opposition. There is also former for a rejuvenated Nigeria that would
Tambuwal to run on a joint ticket, to contend with as even from within Secretary to the Government, Anyim now help in the crystallization of a
whichever way things go. the field of potential South West Pius Anyim. renascent Africa.
If we discount Wike’s chances and contenders, several other interests On the APC side, likely contenders The businessman and politician,
the Jonathan return hype, we would are rooting for either current Vice are clearly keeping their cards to their Sesugh Akume is one of those who
then be left with the two principal President Yemi Osinbajo or Ekiti chests. But outside of the rival parties, expresses this view and he says it is
zones that are believed to really be in Governor, John Kayode Fayemi. there is clearly one contender that most important that, Nigeria should
initial contention for the office in the Another name that is called up now may have presently decided to begin at this point put on the front burner
popular street discourse, namely the and again is that of former Lagos to test the waters. He is former CBN the imperative of having a consensus
South West and the South East. Governor and Works Minister, Deputy Governor, Kingsley Moghalu on how to build a strong, viable and
For the South West APC leadership, Babatunde Fashola. And while it may who had run in 2019 with very little progressive nation.
the chance to produce a Southern be conceded that Tinubu is heads and success. What has he done differently ‘Yes, that is a very important
president from the zone was a shoulders above any of these other now? And how does he hope to unseat conversation we need to have…For
first factor in their allying with the potential South West contenders in the bigger boys? goodness sake, the era of oil will soon
CPC to take out the PDP. And this the arena of cross-cutting regional But watchers of pan-African come to an end. I don’t know we are
arrangement had Asiwaju Bola political reach and sagacity, the political trends say that Nigeria looking at that at all. There are so
Ahmed Tinubu as poster boy and lesson from the 1999 polls process clearly needs to do more in the area many things we are doing wrong that
President-in-Waiting. While Tinubu in which a less regionally-fancied of elevating its internal political have an impact on us now and in the
as leader of the South West APC long term. There are areas like power
would ordinarily have been said generation and consumption; I don’t
to indeed be a shoo-in, there are think we are looking at that at all at
however several hurdles on its path. different levels. Not just at the federal,
They include alleged opposition from but state, local, senatorial levels; we
President Buhari and several of his can be doing many of these things
core associates, his Muslim religious differently, but we are not thinking
identity as well as questions related straight. But I think a time will come
to the need to provide sufficient when we have to start asking these
explanation for what Nigerians would questions and thinking straight and
call his ‘stupendous wealth.’ It will considering what we need to do
be recalled that similar concerns had because we cannot continue this way.
been raised in the past by opponents This house is falling on us; maybe
Governor Nyesom Wike is one of those said to be nursing
of the presumed winner of the presidential ambitions. someday we will realize it.’
PAV - FEB. 2021 - MAG 0221 Vol III 9PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa
Can New Majority in Parliament allow
Tshisekedi to turn DR Congo around ?
By Jean-Pierre Afadhali
T
he resignation of DR Congo’s
Prime Minister Sylvestre
Ilunga Ilunkamba on 29
January gives President Felix
Tshisekedi more power to implement
his agenda by appointing his loyalists
in a new government.
Tshisekedi gained the majority
in parliament that helped him
to overpower his predecessor’
supporters he said were paralyzing
the coalition government throughout
his first two years in the office.
Lawmakers overwhelmingly passed
a vote of no-confidence against Illunga
over poor performance in the climax
of a process to minimize former
president Joseph Kabila’s influence
in parliament and government. The
move initiated by Tshisekedi started
with the impeachment of the pro-
Kabila speaker Jeanine Mabunda late Recent political developments now give President Tshisekedi broader powers to run the
last year. The former speaker was affairs of D.R.Congo.
accused of conflictual and partisan dominated by loyalists of Kabila, administration that some observers Censure against his government.
leadership and alleged lack of whose party controlled a majority of say did not live up to expectations “As a republican who respects the
transparency in parliament’s finance seats in the National Assembly. The of many Congolese despite some constitution and the republic’s
management. defunct coalition was formed after important political decisions such as institutions, I acknowledge the
President Tshisekedi announced controversial elections in 2018 that freeing political prisoners. competency of the National Assembly
the end of the coalition between his were followed by the first peaceful The Premier resigned after that passed the vote of no-confidence
platform Heading for Change (CACH) power transfer in the mineral-rich opposing the motion of censure he against me by 306 lawmakers,” he
and Joseph Kabila’s Common Front country. Kabila’s platform had won had said it was illegal. In a statement wrote.
for Congo (FCC) last December, 60 percent of seats in parliament. seen by Pan African Visions, Ilunga The end of the coalition happens
signaling rising tension within The situation pushed the President noted that on 27 January the as Tshisekedi marks two years at the
the coalition government that was to govern under a coalition parliament had passed a motion of helm of the Central African nation
with a controversial record amid
insecurity in the volatile East of the
country and the global Covid-19
pandemic. In a recent interview
with Radio Okapi- a UN affiliated
FM station, the Secretary General of
the Union for Democracy and Social
Progress (UDPS), the President’s
party, Augustin Kabuya said the party
leader and Head of State “suffered
humiliation in the last two years”.
Kabuya added: “When he [ president]
realized that the interests of our
people were being trampled on, he
was forced to stop the FCC-CACH
machine to look in another direction.”
President Tshisekedi is reported to
The strong change in political fortunes is further buttressed for Tshisekedi with the have told the Congolese diaspora in
Chairmanship of the African Union that he now assumes.
the United Kingdom that he could not
10 PAV - FEB. 2021 - MAG 0221 Vol IIIInside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs
implement his agenda because he was shortly before the 2018 elections.
being blocked by Kabila’s loyalists. They then became members of
However, the party’s Secretary opposition after the general elections.
General defended the government’s Former Kabila government
record in the past two years while spokesperson Lambert Mende is
admitting the CASH-FCC coalition among the notable MPs who joined
did not transform much one of the the ‘Sacred Union’.
biggest countries on the continent. However, former presidential
candidate Martin Fayulu, who still
The controversial record claims, with substantial evidence,
Tshisekedi has recorded several that he won the 2018 vote, will remain
accomplishments of the Head of in opposition together with former
State, Kabuya argued, while blaming premier Adolphe Muzito.
economic shortcomings on the A new cabinet that has not yet been
global pandemic. “Today, the global Modeste Bahati Lukwebo was instrumental in coblling the appointed at the time of this report has
economy has struggled with Covid-19. new majority coalition for President Tshisekedi. a daunting task to deal with insecurity
All the great nations of the world are new majority that would allow him to minimize Kabila’s influence in the in Eastern DRC, Covid-19 and the
in trouble, except in the DRC, where consolidate power, a goal he appears National Assembly, 391 MPs out of struggling economy. It remains to be
you want the Head of State to invent to have achieved. Many pro-Kabila 500 have joined the “Sacred Union seen whether Tshisekedi will succeed
things that are not possible in the lawmakers have joined the platform, of the Nation” giving the president in living up to his promises of political
current political context,” Kabuya giving the head of state a majority that an overwhelming majority. Notable stability and economic growth during
told a journalist in an interview with allowed him to get rid of Mabunda support for Tshisekedi’s platform the final two years of his term in office.
Radio Okapi. and paved the way for the subsequent comes from political heavyweights The president’s envoy has hinted that
In place of the old coalition, vote of no-confidence against Illunga. Moise Katumbi, former Governor of it will not be an easy task to form a
President Tshisekedi late last year According to Modeste Bahati Katanga Province, and Jean-Pierre new government after the Premier’s
formed a new platform he called Lukwebo, a former minister Bemba, a former vice-president. resignation.
“the Sacred Union of the Nation” in appointed by the President in early Both were members of the coalition
parliament as he sought to form a January to gather a new majority and ‘Lamuka’ (Wake up) that was split
DRC: Joseph Kabila Has Nothing Else To Offer,
It’s Time For Tshisekedi- Eloge Mwandwe
By Maniraguha Ferdinand
T
wist and turns in the complex the resignation of Prime Minister
political games in the DR Sylvestre Ilunga Ilunkamba, two days
Congo have resulted in the after parliament voted him out.
emergence of a new coalition which Pan African Visions sat for an
gives President Tshisekedi an upper interview with Eloge Mwandwe,
hand in the power struggle with his a political analyst, researcher in
predecessor Joseph Kabila. Rural Economics from Kinshasa and
Kabila’s coalition had majority both lecturer at the University of Likasi
in government and in parliament and in Kinshasa. Mwandwe is also a
on some occasions, developmental member of AFDC (Alliance des forces
projects were blocked due to démocratiques du Congo), the same
disagreements, which stalled pledges party as of Lukwebo.
Tshisekedi had promised citizens who
voted him in 2018. PAV: After the informant
In the end of 2020, Tshisekedi presented his report, what is
made some reforms. He made next for DRC?
The cohabitation between President Tshisekedi and his
political consultations with other key Mwandwe: A new permanent
predecessor was making it difficult for his vision to flourish.
political parties including those that national assembly›s bureau will
had joined FCC of Joseph Kabila. In Senator Modeste Bahati Lukwebo, January 2021, after lobbying more be put in place, and the president
the end, they agreed to form another a former ally of Joseph Kabila, was than 390 lawmakers out of 500 to join in respect of our Constitution, will
Coalition named ‘Union sacrée’ named as an informant to identify a Union sacrée, with majority quitting appoint a new Prime Minister among
(Sacred Union) aimed at finding new majority coalition in the National the FCC of Joseph Kabila. the political leaders who form the
a new majority both chambers of Assembly. He presented his report to The report came in the same week current new identified majority.
parliament. president Tshisekedi by the end of that President Tshisekedi accepted
PAV - FEB. 2021 - MAG 0221 Vol III 11PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa
PAV: It is said that Union defending his vision. It is a
sacrée aims at weakening matter of time, it is a matter of
the power of former political results and improving
president Kabila, what lives.
kind of threat did he pose
to the current president? PAV: Kabila used to be
Mwandwe: The new a powerful figure in the
identified majority has nothing army, do you think the
to do with individual, instead, army is behind Tshisekedi
it was formed to improve now?
citizens› life, It is about the Mwandwe: Thank God we
country. I first of all do not can now talk of a republican
think that the President Kabila army, not an individual’s army.
whom I owe respect as former According to our Constitution,
head of state, after eighteen the president of the republic is
years of power has something the only supreme commander
else to offer to Congolese. He of the army. Today, President
has done what he could and Tshisekedi is the president of
now, it’s time for the current the republic, so, he is the most
president, Felix Antoine After 18 years, Joseph Kabila has nothing new to offer Congolese says Mwandwe. powerful figure in the army.
Tshisekedi to implement his for a better future on behalf of next his vision has total support from
vision through the next government. generations. Congolese, but I do think he knows PAV: Observers define
that his vision will take the country developments in DRC as
PAV: Do you think Kabila will PAV: Are all Congolese behind to the better heights. It will give hope worrisome, which could end
not retaliate? these reforms of President the country has lost a long time ago. in violence, what do you think
Mwandwe: We are talking about Tshisekedi? Before elections, we had some about it?
future. Honestly, Congolese people Mwandwe: Even God in heaven people who could not agree with
know President Kabila and know his experienced opposition, that is the him, but they are the ones who are Mwandwe: It is their opinion, I
limits as well. reason why today we talk of Lucifer. supporting him today. Some did not don›t see such things happening in
I don›t think that the president of want even to mention his name some the future. People should understand
PAV: What incentives did the the republic is concerned on whether weeks ago, however they are now that the DRC has moved from a
Informant give to FCC country which could not
MPs to join Union sacrée? give hope to its citizens, to
Mwandwe: He only the country envisioning hope
presented to them as well as for its citizens. Majority of
other members of parliament Congolese are focused on
from different political implementing the president of
organizations, the vision the republic›s vision.
that the President has for the
country, which you will agree PAV: Is there any clear
with me that majority of them difference from FCC of
decided to support. As I said Kabila and new Sacred
earlier, it has nothing to do Union of Tshisekedi?
with individual but the country. Mwandwe: The difference
between FCC and Sacred
PAV: Are you sure that Union is that the FCC was
they will stick to the created to win elections which
agreement? it failed to achieve (in 2018).
Mwandwe: Only God never On the other hand, Sacred
knows. For members of Union was created to bring
parliament, I choose to remain reforms in different areas,
optimistic, because the issue at which will improve social
hand concern the future of our and economic lives of the
country. We have reached a Mwandwe says that it is time for President Tshisekedi to deliver on Congolese people.
what he promised the people.
point where we need to decide
Pan African Visions MAGAZINE, 7614 Green Willow Court, Hyattsville,MD 20785
Tel:2404292177, email: pav@panafricanvisions.com, editor@panafricanvisions.com
12 PAV - FEB. 2021 - MAG 0221 Vol IIIInside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs
PAV - FEB. 2021 - MAG 0221 Vol III 13PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa
Kenya: Ruto's hurdles ahead of 2022 polls
By Samuel Ouma
Deputy President William Ruto is in the fight of his political life. Photo courtesy.
K
enya heads towards critical the ODM’s earlier announcement presidential elections on the ODM IEBC,» said the Registrar of Political
elections in 2022, and many inviting applicants interested in vying party ticket to declare their interest Parties Anne Nderitu.
candidates have already for the 2022 presidential election by submitting their applications to The ruling party›s ongoing battles,
expressed their interests in the of the party’s ticket to submit their the NEB, “ read the part of the advert. Jubilee, have seen the formation of
country›s top seat led by Deputy applications latest on February Other candidates include former a new political outfit, namely the
President William Ruto. With 2022 26, 2021. The Elections Board vice presidents Kalonzo Musyoka United Democratic Alliance (UDA)
drawing closer, political realignments Chairperson Catherine Muyeka and Musalia Mudavadi, Governors associated with the deputy president.
and new parties› formation have Mumma, in an advert on a local Alfred Mutua and Kivutha Kibwana, Even though the second in command
begun at very high gear. daily, said that each candidate must Senators Gideon Moi and Moses has not personally come out and
So far, more than ten candidates pay a ksh 1 million (approximately Wetangla, Secretary-General of identify himself with the new party,
have announced their presidential 10,000 USD) non-refundable fee. the United Nations Conference on his allies several times have hinted
bids, and the number might increase The applicants must also meet Trade and Development Mukhisa that the party is the chosen bus that
with time. The latest to join the race t the minimum requirements of Kituyi, and former minister Mwangi will drive their boss to the presidency.
is Kakamega Governor Wycliffe presidential candidates as set out Kiunjuri. Ruto’s allies are somehow correct
Oparanya and his Mombasa by the Independent Electoral and Between now and next year, because the outfit is associated with
counterpart Hassan Joho of the Boundaries Commission (IEBC). Kenyans are set to witness the birth of the Hustler Nation slogan, along with
Orange Democratic Movement “Pursuant to the resolution of new political parties and alliances and the Wheelbarrow Movement that
(ODM) party headed by the AU envoy the party’s Central Committee on party-hopping as leaders try to find Ruto has been popularising across the
Raila Odinga. The duo whose terms the need for early preparations out a political vehicle that will drive country.
as Governor expire next year are towards the 2022 General Elections them to power. Reports from the “We formed Jubilee but to our
deputizing Odinga. Oparanya and and guided by The Constitution of Registrar of Political Parties› office dismay, we are humiliated and
Joho seek the ODM ticket in a battle Kenya, 2010, The Elections Act, show that many people are tendering derided. We no longer have a say
that will pit them against their boss 2011, The Political Parties Act, 2011, their resignation from one party and in it. In UDA which is an affiliate to
to get a strong candidate to face Ruto. The Elections (General) Regulations, move to another. Jubilee, we have a home that can help
“I will submit my nomination 2012, The ODM Constitution and “We do have an increase in people us ascend to power. There is an option
papers to seek the ODM ticket for the The ODM party National Elections changing parties. People resign from now for us who have a difference of
2022 presidential race,” Oparanya and Nomination Rules, the National one party and join another every day. opinion regarding the operations
told the Star. Elections Board (NEB) hereby gives Resignations are all over now, maybe of the Jubilee party. UDA has now
The bold decision taken by the notice to party members who are because of the several by-elections gained traction across the country and
two county bosses was preceded by interested in vying for the 2022 that have been scheduled by the we shall use it for shelter,” reiterated
14 PAV - FEB. 2021 - MAG 0221 Vol IIIInside Africa PAN AFRICAN VISIONs
MP Caleb Kositany.
The United Democratic Alliance
(UDA), formerly the Party of
Development and Reform (PDR),
will be launched soon, followed by
the election of officials from the
grassroots to the national level,
according to the party›s chairman
Johnson Muthama.
“We have succeeded in changing
the name and already have our
headquarters. Now we are in Phase
Two where we are set to open offices
in all the sub-counties and county
headquarters. From there, we will
elect officials in all our branches to
the top leadership. This is the party
by the hustlers and for the hustlers
and we want them to own and be
part of every step and process of the From friends to foes, relations between Deputy President Ruto and PresideKenyatta have
decision-making in the party,” said soured
Muthama.
The country›s political atmosphere the former vice president termed rejoinder, described Mudavadi and Raila criticized him over Jubilee›s
is already tensed as the presidential Ruto’s claims wild and desperate his party as confused, asking them to unfulfilled promises labeling him
hopefuls engage in a bitter exchange propaganda and challenged him to keep off the Jubilee party›s affairs. «Mr. Six months.»
of words. Recently, Kalonzo and Ruto subject himself to lifestyle audit and “Who is supposed to complain? «Mr Six months! The youngsters
locked horns over land grabbing investigations. Is it ANC or members of Jubilee? you promised laptops eight years ago
claims. Ruto had accused the former Prior, Musalia Mudavadi›s Amani That is a sign of a confused party,” are now old enough to see through
of grabbing land belonging to the National Congress Party (ANC) said former National Assembly Chief your lies. The youth you promised
National Youth Service in Yatta, had asked Ruto to resign or face Whip Benjamin Washiali. eight million jobs in eight yrs can see
Machakos County. Kalonzo instead impeachment over his constant attack Moreover, Ruto’s claims that through the wheelbarrow lie you are
turned guns on the deputy president, on the president. Ayub Savula, an Raila should take responsibility now peddling. It has been eight yrs
accusing him of all manner of ills, ANC deputy party leader, threatened for the government›s failures to Mr Six months and not three years.
and ended up branding him the to rally lawmakers to ouster Ruto meet the development plan due to No Mr Six months!»
chief land grabber. Addressing the for allegedly disrespecting President a famous handshake has put him «There are people like ‹Mr. Six
press in Nairobi on January 19, 2021, Uhuru Kenyatta. Ruto, allies in under fire from the opposition chief. Months Time›, In six months time
we shall give all children in schools
laptops, in six months time we shall
give one million jobs to our youth, in
six months we shall build 47 modern
stadia, in six months we shall build
tarmacked roads,” said Raila.
President Kenyatta had indicated
that he would prefer a person from
an ethnic community other than any
of the two that have produced the
country›s past presidents to succeed
him. Many leaders welcomed his
statement except those in Ruto’s
camp. Ruto hails from the Kalenjin
community, which produced a long-
serving head of state in Kenya›s
political history. The late Daniel Moi
served for 24 years before retiring in
2022.
Ruto in a handshake with opposition leader Raila Odinga while President Kenyatta looks
on.Both men are frontline candidates to succeed Kenyatta when his second and last mandate ends.
PAV - FEB. 2021 - MAG 0221 Vol III 15PAN AFRICAN VISIONs Inside Africa
Ethiopia is Waxing Strong In Face of Multiple
Challenges-Ambassador Arega
By Ajong Mbapndah L
E
thiopia’s envoy to the USA USA and Ethiopia may have been
Ambassador Fitsum Arega ruffled due to bias in favour of Egypt
says amidst a myriad of from the previous administration,
challenges, the country is waxing Ambassador Arega said he was
strong. Speaking in an exclusive zoom
optimistic on prospects of stronger
interview with PAV, Ambassador bonds of cooperation with the Biden
Arega says doomsday scenarios administration.
painted about his country in some Despite the challenges posed by
media circles do not amply capture COVID 19, Ambassador Arega said
the realities on the ground. his Embassy had remains open and he
Defending the forceful response of
has been working hand in glove with
Prime Minister Abiy’s government the dynamic Ethiopian diaspora to
to the crisis in Tigray, Ambassadorsupport recovery efforts back home.
Arega says that no country in the In the interview which also covers
world would have tolerated the the upcoming elections, investment
provocation and heinous actions opportunities, and changes in the
of the TPLF. Ambassador Arega country since Prime Minister Abiy
laments the suffering that the war took office, Ambassador Arega No country in the world would have tolerated the provocation and
has brought but is quick to say hisshared reassuring perspectives on heinous actions of the TPLF says Ambassador Arega in defence of the
response of Ethiopia to crisis in Tigray.
government was doing its maximum his country .Prime Minister Abiy
best and working in partnership with
has inspired millions since he came lockdowns, trade roots, logistics and Ambassador Arega: The diplomatic
international partners to ensure that
to office and reforms are still alive , tourism challenges, the economy relations have been essentially old, to
aid is brought to people in need and
Ambassador Arega said. has been affected. But compared to be exactly one hundred and seventeen
normalcy returns to the region. some other countries in Africa, since years and last year was one of the
On the Grand Pan African Visions: May we Ethiopia›s economy is predominantly challenging years due to President
Ethiopian
Renaissance Dam start with how Ethiopia is agricultural and the rural areas are Trump›s invitation for the three
Ambassador
Arega said it is a public and not adoing politically, economically less affected, Ethiopia has had some countries to negotiate on the Ethiopian
government project with circa five and socially? positive growth; last year it was 6%. dam. That did not work out the way
billion dollars raised by Ethiopians Ambassador Arega: Ethiopia has In terms of political stability, since we all wanted. It was not impartial,
in the country and in the diaspora.been doing very good before COID in Prime minister Abiy came to power some unacceptable proposals were
Ambassador Arega said his country terms of economic stability as well as things were going very well. But due coming from Washington, and we
has been forthcoming in sharing allsocial cohesion. Since the pandemic, to the TPLF provocation and act had to realign the negotiation. We
progress and developments with Ethiopia is one of the least affected so of treason that they committed on accepted Washington as an observer,
other countries in the region and far. Around 2100 people died because November 3, 2020, by attacking the but the treasury department went on
any scepticism from any quarters isof covid and close to 200,000 got Northern command, the Ethiopian influencing or supporting Egypt›s
uncalled for. infected, most of them recovered government had to respond to this proposals. Because of that, the
While relations between the quickly. But due to the international aggression. Due to that things have relation was a little bit challenging.
gotten a little challenging for the Now, relations are getting far better,
Ethiopian government to provide and it is going well.
humanitarian supplies to these
affected areas. We are hoping for the Pan African Visions: Last year,
best because we are heading to an the US suspended some aid to
election that will happen on June 5, your country. Now, with a new
2021. administration, what efforts
are being made to make sure
Pan African Visions: We will get these sanctions are lifted?
to the specifics of the conflict in Ambassador Arega: A new
a moment but let’s talk about administration is just coming in;
your current functions. You they have not even fully assigned the
have been Ambassador for staff that will investigate all these
a couple of years now, what challenges. So far, we have just the
Since Prime Minister Abiy came to power, he has inspired
is that state of ties between secretary of State, Deputy Secretary
millions and reforms are still alive, says Ambassador Arega.
Washington and Addis Ababa? still not assigned. We are in touch
16 PAV - FEB. 2021 - MAG 0221 Vol IIIYou can also read
