Monday, October 20, 2014

New Africa Books - Special Ebola Edition for 20 October 2014

Ebola: The Natural and Human History of a Deadly Virus by David Quammen

Release Date: October 20, 2014
Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company

In 1976 a deadly virus emerged from the Congo forest. As swiftly as it came, it disappeared, leaving no trace. Over the four decades since, Ebola has emerged sporadically, each time to devastating effect. It can kill up to 90 percent of its victims. In between these outbreaks, it is untraceable, hiding deep in the jungle. The search is on to find Ebola’s elusive host animal. And until we find it, Ebola will continue to strike. Acclaimed science writer and explorer David Quammen first came near the virus while he was traveling in the jungles of Gabon, accompanied by local men whose village had been devastated by a recent outbreak. Here he tells the story of Ebola—its past, present, and its unknowable future.

Extracted from Spillover by David Quammen, updated and with additional material.

David Quammen has been honored by the American Academy of Arts and Letters and is the recipient of a John Burroughs Medal and the National Magazine Award. He is the author of The Song of the Dodo (1997), Spillover: Animal Infections and the Next Human Pandemic (2013), The Chimp and the River: How AIDS Emerged from an African Forest (forthcoming, 2015), and The Reluctant Mr. Darwin: An Intimate Portrait of Charles Darwin and the Making of His Theory of Evolution (2007), among other books.

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Ebola Virus Disease: From Epidemic To Pandemic: What You Should Know by Thomas Jerome Baker

Release Date: October 12, 2014
Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform

With news of the first diagnosed case of Ebola in the U.S., the public is on edge and trying to find fast answers about just how vulnerable they are to the deadly virus. This book provides answers from the most reliable sources possible from a wide variety of perspectives: social, economic, health and medical.

Thomas Jerome Baker was president of TESOL Chile during 2010-2011. He is the head of the English Department at Colegio Internacional SEK in Santiago, Chile. He is also a member of the Advisory Board for the International Higher Education Teaching and Learning Association (HETL), where he also serves as a reviewer and as the HETL Ambassador for Chile. Baker is author of The Spelling Bee for EFL Teachers (2012), Teaching Debate in Chile: Age of Wisdom, Season of Light, Spring of Hope (2012), How to Teach Debating: Theory & Practical Handbook for the Non-Native Teacher, Debate Coach & International English Language Learner Worldwide (2013), and How to Coach a Debate Team (2012), among other works.

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Ebola Crisis: Its Origins, Treatment, & Future in the U.S. and the World by Joseph Spark

Release Date: October 14, 2014
Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform

In March 2014, an outbreak of Ebola was reported in Guinea. This is the first time the disease had hit this country and locals as well as health authorities were admittedly ill prepared to deal with the menace. Therefore, the virus spread rapidly throughout several communities in the country. Reports indicate that the first victim was a child who died late in 2013. The infections soon spread to other countries including Sierra Leone, Liberia and Senegal.

Joseph Spark is author of ISIS Taking Over the Middle East: The Rise of Middle Eastern Supremacy-ISIS/ISIL (2014), Best Places to Retire: United States vs. the World (2014), Police vs. The Public: Brutality Or Justice (2014), and Facts You Need to Know About the Ebola Crisis (2014), among other works.




Tuesday, October 14, 2014

Africa News Headlines for 14 October 2014

Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg Donates $25 Million to Fight Ebola Outbreak
Source: The Wrap

"Africa Week" kicks off with top UN officials calling for integrated, peaceful continent
Source: Shanghai Daily

Ebola threatens chocolate
Source: Politico

Uganda to honour Ebola, Marburg medics
Source: New Vision

Frequently unanswered questions about Ebola
Source: Houston Chronicle

The rise of the "baksheesh state" in Ethiopia
Source: Somalilandpress

Uganda to Take Mineral Ownership from Landowners
Source: Voice of America

New film inspires with story about Zambian soccer
Source: Daily Trojan

Oscar Pistorius trial: Athlete would be 'vulnerable in jail'
Source: BBC News

10,000 new Ebola cases per week could be seen, WHO warns
Source: WABC-TV

Appraising Gains Of US-Africa Leaders’ Summit
Source: The Nigerian Observer

Tanzania to grant citizenship to 200,000 Burundi refugees
Source: eNCA

Church leaders arrested over noise pollution in Rwanda
Source: StarAfrica

Most hectares of organic land in Africa found in Uganda
Source: Fresh Plaza

Kenyan Ali Mazrui Remembered as Great Pan-Africanist
Source: Voice of America

Process to eject Mbabazi from secretary general job starts
Source: New Vision

Prepare for a stronger Africa at UN climate talks, says Congo envoy
Source: RTCC

Somaliland: Our Country is Open for Business” President Silanyo
Source: Somaliland Sun

ISU is playing an inspiring role in impoverished areas of Uganda
Source: The Des Moines Register

Maroc Telecom CEO granted audience with Ali Bongo ahead of Gabon Telecom 4G launch
Source: TeleGeography

Seven ways you know you're an African, according to Jacob Zuma
Source: Mail & Guardian

Cameroon joint venture expands Woodside international exploration
Source: Sydney Morning Herald

Uganda, Rwanda to promote East Africa as single Tourism destination
Source: New Vision

South African judge who fought against apartheid defends 'activist judges'
Source: Columbia Missourian

Porn decision on hold
Source: IT Web

Porn plot thickens after Icasa slip-up
Source: IOL/Cape Times

Africa Week underway at UN HQ
Source: defenceWeb

Controversy dogs Tanzania's draft constitution‏
Source: World Bulletin

Mbabazi tells youth that ambition is not bad
Source: NTV Uganda

Africa News Headlines - Special Ebola Edition - 13 October 2014
Source: Sub-Saharan Monitor



Monday, October 13, 2014

Africa News Headlines - Special Ebola Edition - 13 October 2014

Male Ebola survivors: No sex or wear a condom for 3 months
Source: Detroit Free Press

9 questions you were too afraid to ask about Ebola
Source: Vox

Frequently asked questions about Ebola
Source: Chicago Tribune

Sex in a time of Ebola
Source: The Washington Post

Ebola: Statistics about the deadly virus
Source: Coventry Telegraph

Ebola may pose risk to Africa Cup of Nations
Source: Sunday World

Ebola epidemic 'could lead to failed states', warns WHO
Source: BBC News

Ebola to cost MSF nearly $60m this year
Source: News24

Another Side-Effect of Ebola: Headaches For An Ohio University Professor
Source: WOUB Public Media

How to protect yourself from Ebola: 10 top tips to avoid the deadly disease
Source: Daily Mirror

UN budget committee approves funding for UN Ebola response mission
Source: UN News Centre

Are dogs a risk for Ebola transmission to humans?
Source: Outbreak News Today

Report: Not All Ebola Patients Will Display A Fever
Source: The Daily Caller

'We are late, but not too late to fight and win this battle,' against Ebola – UN
Source: UN News Centre

Why is Ebola being treated as an 'African disease?'
Source: Mail & Guardian

UVa panel discusses Ebola; local sites have contingency plans
Source: The Daily Progress

Liberians cope with the fear and realities of Ebola
Source: CBS Evening News

Can all US hospitals safely treat Ebola?
Source WBTW News 13

Ebola deflating hopes for 3 poor African economies
Source: AP/NWI.com

University Holds Interdisciplinary Symposium on Ebola Crisis
Source: Georgetown University

The many flaws of airports' Ebola screenings
Source: Crain's Chicago Business

UVa researchers identify structure in Ebola virus
Source: The Daily Progress

Ebola in UK: 'Don't Panic' says virus expert at University of Northampton
Source: Northants Herald & Post

Letter From a Spanish Ebola Expert in Sierra Leone
Source: The World Post

Why Isn't Silicon Valley Doing More to Fight Ebola?
Source: The Daily Beast

Majority of Americans Want Flights Banned From Ebola Countries: Survey
Source: NBC News

Obama reviews foreign, domestic response to Ebola
Source: Lynchburg News & Advance

Virginia Congressman Robert Hurt discusses Africa policy, Ebola threat, and AGOA
Source: Examiner.com

Ebola Panic Is Worse Than the Disease
Source: The Daily Beast

UPDATED: UVa. Patient Tests Negative For Ebola
Source: Newsplex

5 Ugandans in isolation over Marburg virus
Source: News24

Ebola airport screenings may seem intrusive, but they’re legal, experts say
Source: PBS Newshour/AP

Liberia healthcare workers demand Ebola hazard pay
Source: Oman Tribune

UVa Is Now Banning All Student Travel to Ebola Countries
Source: InTheCapital

UN agency: Ebola cuts food in Sierra Leone
Source: AP/Townhall.com

Obama, Ban call for more 'robust' fight against Ebola
Source: AFP/Rappler

Read this to get a better understanding of how Ebola spreads
Source: Reuters

Richmond clinic evaluating whether patient is at risk of Ebola
Source: Richmond Times-Dispatch



Thursday, October 2, 2014

New Africa Book of the Day - 2 October 2014

Broadcasting the End of Apartheid: Live Television and the Birth of the New South Africa, by MJ Evans

Release Date: October 2, 2014
Publisher: I. B. Tauris

South Africa came late to television; when it finally arrived in the late 1970s the rest of the world had already begun to shun the country because of apartheid. While the ruling National Party feared the integrative effects of television, they did not foresee how exclusion from globally unifying broadcasts would gradually erode their power. Throughout the apartheid-era South Africa was barred from participating in some of television's greatest global attractions, including sporting events such as the Olympics and contests such as Miss World. After apartheid, and with the release of Nelson Mandela from prison – itself one of the world's most memorable media events, came a proliferation of large-scale live broadcasts that attracted the admiration of the rest of the world. At the same time, the country was permitted to return to international competition. These events were pivotal in shaping and consolidating the country's emerging post-apartheid national identity. Broadcasting the End of Apartheid assesses the socio-political effect of live broadcasting on South Africa's transition to democracy. MJ Evans argues that just as print media had a powerful influence on the development of Afrikaner nationalism, so the 'liveness' of television helped to consolidate the 'newness' of the post-apartheid South African national identity.

MJ Evans teaches journalism and media studies courses at the University of Cape Town. She has written for the Mail & Guardian and the Argus and won a 2008 travel writing award from the Sunday Independent.



Speeches to the United Nations General Assembly by African Leaders - Part IV

Nearly every sitting African head of state has spoken during the opening debate of the 69th United Nations General Assembly.

Here are brief excerpts from the speeches delivered by heads of state or their representatives on Saturday, September 27, with links to the full reported remarks, in chronological order.

For the speeches by African leaders that were delivered on  Wednesday, September 24, see this previous post. For those from Thursday, September 25, see this post. For speeches from Friday, September 26, click here.

His Excellency Ibrahim Boubacar Keita
President, Republic of Mali


[UN summary] "Terrorist attacks were on the rise in Libya, Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, Tunisia and the Middle East, he said, expressing regret that terrorism was taking root under the name of religion. The Malian crisis in 2012 had led to the adoption of the United Nations Integrated Strategy for the Sahel. Ministers for Foreign Affairs in the region had decided to meet every six months. At the second meeting in Bamako on 16 May, the Malian Road Map had been adopted. He also expressed concern about extremists in Syria and Iraq, particularly the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), calling for the implementation of relevant United Nations resolutions. His country was committed to cutting the flow of illegal light and small weapons, a factor contributing to violence. The Arms Trade Treaty as a genuine step forward."

His Excellency Salva Kiir
President, Republic of South Sudan


"The conflict in South Sudan is purely a political struggle for power -- not an ethnic conflict as reported. The citizens displaced by the conflict, especially in the three States of Jonglei, Unity, and Upper Nile, have sought refuge in the neighbouring states of Lakes, Warrap, Central Equatoria, and Eastern Equatoria, and in the neighbouring countries. These innocent victims of the conflict urgently need and deserve humanitarian assistance. We, therefore, thank the United Nations, the Government of Norway and the other stakeholders for organizing the Donor Conference in Oslo, Norway, in May 2014, to support our humanitarian needs. We also deeply appreciate and welcome the High-level Ministerial Meeting on South Sudan, which the UN organized in the margin of the 69th Session of UN-GA on 25 September 2014 during which a number of donors made [pledges] of support. My Government is fully committed to render humanitarian access and has taken the necessary measures to facilitate access for Humanitarian Agencies."

Her Excellency Catherine Samba-Panza
President, Transitional Government of the Central African Republic


[UN summary] "On the humanitarian front, she said that the number of internally displaced persons had dropped; 81 per cent had left the camps and returned to their communities. Yet, the situation was generally concerning as it hinged on fragile security. The conflict had cut the country's economic growth rate by 36 per cent in 2013, plunging it into recession. She expressed hope that the agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on rapid disbursement of funds would put the country on a path of growth. On the political front, she had focused on "disarming hearts and minds" through national reconciliation. The Ebola outbreak and the spread of Boko Haram and the Lord’s Resistance Army, or LRA, terrorist groups in neighbouring Nigeria and Cameroon were also worrying."

His Excellency Prosper Bazombanza
Vice-President, Republic of Burundi


[UN summary] "His Government was preparing for the upcoming presidential and general elections, scheduled to begin in May 2015, he said. Owing to the adoption of a road map for the various political parties, the elections should be transparent, free and democratic. Parliament already had adopted the electoral code. The Independent National Electoral Commission announced the elections schedule last June. Among his Government’s efforts towards good governance was a law passed by Parliament to set up a Truth and Reconciliation Commission under the 2000 Arusha Agreement. Consultations were under way for the election of its 11 commissioners. In addition, an ad hoc committee for the selection of candidates had been established by general consensus."

His Excellency Oldemiro Marques Balói
Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Republic of Mozambique


"The principle of the right to self-determination continues to be central to the full enjoyment of human rights. In this context, the United Nations ought to continue to be engaged in the fulfillment of these rights by the peoples of Palestine and Western Sahara.

"Mozambique reiterates its full support to a just and lasting solution to the problem of Palestine through peaceful means, in accordance with the International Law and all the relevant Resolutions of the United Nations.

"On the Western Sahara, we note with encouragement the new initiative taken by the Chairperson of the African Union to appoint H.E. Joaquim Alberto Chissano, former President of the Republic of Mozambique, as a Special Envoy to the P5+Spain, an effort to step up the search for a solution that will ensure the fulfilment of the right of the Saharaoui people to self-determination, to which Mozambique reaffirms its unconditional support."




Africa News Headlines for 2 October 2014

Oscar Pistorius' iPad Included 'Free Mobile Porn' Visit Day Before He Killed Girlfriend, Report
Source: Sports World News

Ebola and Counterinsurgency—A Struggle for Legitimacy
Source: Africa in Transition

Museveni calls for value addition in mining industry
Source: New Vision

Q&A: YALI Fellow Amadou “Chico” Cissoko Talks African Innovation
Source: AFK Insider

US increases cap on duty-free apparel from Africa
Source: just-style

Here Are The Economic Effects Of The Worsening Africa Ebola Outbreak
Source: Africa in Focus

Rugunda sworn in as PM, sets out priorities
Source: New Vision

Nigeria’s Boko Haram and Heavy Weapons
Source: Africa in Transition

Africans attacked in Delhi: Envoys seek 'fair probe'
Source: Hindustan Times

12 Africans Shortlisted For UK Engineering Innovation Awards
Source: Ventures Africa

Stocks Looking for the Next Big Africa Oil Gusher in Namibia
Source: Small Cap Network

Uganda to showcase 14 projects at London summit
Source: New Vision

Free giveaways planned for Equatorial Guinea's .gq domain
Source: IT Web Africa

Boko Haram leader dismisses claims of his death in new video
Source: Yahoo!7 News

Elephant conservation: The need for political will
Source: Daily Maverick

Tanzania to ban public officials from holding private sector jobs
Source: Reuters

UN General Assembly President welcomes multilateral fight against terror
Source: Xinhua

'Together we can make a difference,' says General Assembly President, previewing work ahead
Source: India Blooms

Owners will lose rights over mineral-rich land - Museveni
Source: Daily Monitor




Monday, September 29, 2014

African Leaders Speak at 2014 UN General Assembly - Part III

Nearly every sitting African head of state has spoken during the opening debate of the 69th United Nations General Assembly, or is scheduled to do so.

Here are brief excerpts from the speeches delivered on Friday, September 26, with links to the full reported remarks, in chronological order.

For the speeches by African leaders that were delivered on  Wednesday, September 24, see this previous post. For those from Thursday, September 25, see this post.


His Excellency Hifikepunye Pohamba

President, Republic of Namibia

"Namibia supports the participation of women in peace-keeping and peace-building efforts around the world. In this context, we call for the full implementation of the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security. Presently, Namibia has deployed one of the largest female police contingents to the African Union/United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur."

His Excellency Alassane Ouattara

President, Republic of Côte d'Ivoire

[UN summary] "Africa could not become 'the forgotten continent' in the struggle against terror, he said. Thanking bilateral and multilateral partners that had assisted his Government, he conveyed special thanks to the people of the United States for 'bold and outstanding' measures taken to assist West Africa in conquering Ebola. On the issue of climate change, he noted that final efforts were needed to achieve an agreement in 2015. Today his country was a nation at peace and work. Côte d’Ivoire had regained the confidence of its partners, and thanks to the cohesion of its citizens, economic growth was strong."

His Excellency Alpha Condé
President, Republic of Guinea

[UN summary] "Ebola was a serious epidemic, but it was not necessarily a death sentence. Guinea welcomed the nomination of a United Nations system coordinator in the ongoing struggle against Ebola, and thanked the World Health Organization (WHO), Médecins sans Frontières, the Red Cross and political figures for their support. There was an urgent need to move forward in fighting the disease. On development challenges, the international community had to put an end to poverty which was continuing to hold nearly 2 billion people hostage. That was a question of dignity, justice and equality. While progress had been achieved on the Millennium Development Goals, the digital divide remained, and progress was needed on tackling malaria and HIV/AIDS-related issues."

His Excellency Denis Sassou Nguesso
President, Republic of the Congo

[UN summary] "Africa needed increased support from the international community, he said. That assistance was needed so that Somalia could escape the abyss, Mali could recover its unity, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo would not plunge again into violence. The continent also required help to halt maritime piracy, developing dangerously in the Gulf of Guinea, and reduce the spread of terrorism from the Sahel to the south of Africa. In Central Africa, insecurity was often not only the result of wars and armed violence, but of poverty and diseases such as malaria, HIV/AIDS and Ebola. He was pleased by the solidarity shown by the international community in helping those African countries affected by the Ebola outbreak."

His Excellency Hassan Sheikh Mohamud

President, Federal Republic of Somalia

"For many, I fear that their experience of Somalia is confined to films like the recent 'Captain Phillips' or re-runs of 'Black Hawk Down'. It is confined to the YouTube scenes of the horrific Westgate Mall attack in Nairobi, Kenya. It is narrowed down to yet another title on a library bookshelf including the words, 'failed state'. It is limited to reference of a 'long war'.

"But if we were to shrink our gaze to just this small glimpse we would miss the beauty of a very different picture that we are painting right now in Somalia."

His Excellency Ali Ahmed Karti
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Republic of the Sudan

[UN summary] "ALI AHMED KARTI, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Sudan, described his country's political transition, noting that President Omer al-Bashir had established national dialogue on such topics as rights, foreign relations, and the economy. The Government and opposition were aiming to agree on a way forward for Sudan. Sanctions against the country should be lifted and its debt forgiven, he stressed, describing the positive role Sudan was playing in the peace and security of its neighbours. There had been no interference when conflict broke out in South Sudan, he noted. Instead, Sudan had provided humanitarian aid and accepted 100,000 internally displaced persons. Efforts were also made to help resolve conflicts in the Central African Republic and Libya, while cooperation with Ethiopia and Egypt continued to ensure universal benefits from the Blue Nile. On Palestine, he urged support for Palestinian demands, saying that failure to protect them fuelled global extremism."

His Excellency Harry Kalaba
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Republic of Zambia

"Zambia is also concerned about the insecurity currently being experienced as a result of the instability in Ukraine. We have followed the counter accusations which point to the deep seated divisions and suspicions of a bygone era. Sadly, the human loss has been heavy, as the ordinary Ukrainian is caught in the middle of a crisis that is strongly influenced by foreign factors.

"Innocent civilians from other nations have also been drawn in, through the loss of lives on Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17. We share in the sorrow of the families and the nations that lost their loved ones in this human inflicted catastrophe. Zambia believes that the ordinary Ukrainian citizens are of the same view and desire nothing but peace, harmony and prosperity for their country. They should be allowed to enjoy these basic human conditions."




Saturday, September 27, 2014

African Heads of State Speak at 2014 UN General Assembly - Part II

Nearly every sitting African head of state has spoken during the opening debate of the 69th United Nations General Assembly, or is scheduled to do so.

Here are brief excerpts from the speeches delivered on Thursday, September 25, with links to the full reported remarks, in chronological order.

For the speeches by African leaders that were delivered on  Wednesday, September 24, see this previous post.


His Excellency Mahamadou Issoufou

President, Republic of Niger

[UN summary] "The fight against inequality must be made a priority and placed at the centre of the post-2015 development agenda, he said. With its high economic growth rate, Africa was the continent of the twentieth century. Indeed, it would be the continent of the twenty-first century when it converted its own raw materials into manufactured goods and took its place in global industrial production, when its relations with other nations were governed by fair trade, not by Official Development Assistance (ODA), and when a broad middle class would arise thanks to good political and economic governance. The vision contained in the African Union’s 2063 agenda indicated that Africa was on the right path. It was in the international community’s interest to mainstream the continent’s priorities."

His Excellency John Dramani Mahama
President, Republic of Ghana

"At the root of all of the world's major religions exists the call for compassion, forgiveness, tolerance, peace, and love. Nevertheless, the use of religious dogma and extremism as a weapon of violence persists.

"In this age of terrorism and political turmoil; national, regional and ethnic conflict, it may be tempting to use the actions of a few to justify prejudice toward many. It may be tempting to combine the faithful with the fanatical.

"But those of us who envision a just and peaceful world cannot and should not yield to those temptations. Time and time again, history has shown us that the changing of a world begins with the power that rests in the hands of people, ordinary individuals. Or, in the words of one of the greatest teachers and leaders of nonviolence, Mahatma Gandhi, 'You must be the change you wish to see in the world.'

"Today our Jewish brothers and sisters are celebrating Rosh Hashanah, their New Year. To them, I say, 'L'Ashana Tova.'

"Next week, our Muslim brothers and sisters will be celebrating Eid-al-Adha, Festival of the Sacrifice. To them, I say, 'Eid Mubarrak.'"


His Excellency Hery Martial Rajaonarimampianina Rakotoarimanana

President, Republic of Madagascar

[UN summary] "Five per cent of the world's biodiversity was located in Madagascar, he said. His country had sought to preserve that wealth and to ensure better management of it for future generations. For example, Government authorities were working on a zero-tolerance policy on all kinds of trafficking of natural resources and wildlife. Madagascar’s strategic location meant that it had to protect fishing areas and marine reserves. Due to the increased potential for piracy, terrorism and trafficking, international cooperation was needed to protect such areas."

His Excellency Robert Mugabe
President, Republic of Zimbabwe


"Because Zimbabwe has thus been pre-occupied with the empowerment of its people economically, she has become a victim of the evil machinations of Western countries who continue to apply unilateral and illegal sanctions as a foreign policy tool to achieve short-term political objectives, particularly regime change. Mr President, regime change is a diabolical illegal policy of interference in the domestic affairs of my country and no good can come from undermining our economy, or depriving our citizens of the necessities of life. Why, I ask, should Zimbabweans continue to suffer under the yoke of unjustified and unwarranted illegal sanctions. These evil sanctions violate the fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter and should be condemned by the international community. We once again call for their immediate and unconditional removal."



His Excellency Hailemariam Dessalegn

Prime Minister, Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia


"Conflict, Mr. President, is not an exclusively African phenomenon. What is becoming obvious lately is how much the global security situation is becoming a source of concern. Never since the end of the cold war has the global security situation been as fragile as it is today. The threat of terrorism has affected ever greater and wider areas of the world. At no time over the last many decades has the need for effective cooperation at the international and regional levels been as pressing and as urgent as it is today. That the issue of 'Foreign Fighters' has become a source of major concern to many is very obvious. What is required to make progress in addressing the challenge is readiness to forge cooperation which brooks no double standards. We need to be resolute in our determination to work together."


His Excellency Al Hadji Yahya Jammeh

President, Republic of the Gambia

"In the same vein, the UN General Assembly should be commended for the passage two years ago, of the World interfaith Harmony Week urging member states to designate the first week of February each year as the interfaith Week when the messages of goodwill and tolerance are spread through mosques, churches and other places of worship. While this was a good beginning for promoting peace and harmony among religions and peoples of different belief systems, the UN must do more to match the continuing attacks on Islam in particular by people who do not even believe in the existence of a supreme creator CALLED ALLAH. These infidels have no moral high ground to describe any religion worthy of high praise more so one that is as authentic, pure and noble as Islam."

His Excellency Ali Bongo Ondimba
President, Gabonese Republic

"Never has the terrorist threat been as strong as in recent times, jeopardizing the survival of the institutions of countries affected by this odious phenomenon.

"In Africa, the activism of BOKO HARAM forces a whole population to live far from their original homes in terror, insecurity, and despair.

"In the Middle East, the so-called Islamic State has expanded its disastrous reign to eastern Syria and northern Iraq. This expansion was accompanied by a long procession of rape, summary executions, beheadings, and punishments of all kinds perpetrated against anyone who, in the eyes of these extremists, symbolize resistance to radicalization."

His Excellency Joseph Kabila Kabange

President, Democratic Republic of the Congo


[UN summary] "He looked back 13 years, when the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo was bad, but added that things had improved significantly and the country was now standing tall again. Peace was strengthening every day and the country had a dynamic economy, marked by low inflation, growth above the African average and constantly increasing reserves. The country was being rebuilt at an unprecedented rate, with new roads, schools, and hospitals always under construction. The Government’s priorities were strengthening democracy and national cohesion, and success was apparent. Elections would be held under the auspices of an independent electoral commission and everything had been done to ensure that the country emerged from the balloting more at peace with itself and stronger. Efforts would continue to re-establish peace in the country’s East and to improve relations with neighbours, he said, pointing to an improved business climate and stressing the importance of stability to achieving that."

His Excellency Arthur Peter Mutharika

President, Republic of Malawi

[UN summary] "He said his country had always rendered political support for the disarmament of all weapons of mass destruction. He was disheartened by the continuing violence and loss of life and property in the Middle East, owing to the conflict between Israel and Palestine, and believed that the two-State solution was the only viable path to lasting peace in the region. He encouraged both sides to denounce violence, exercise utmost restraint, and employ dialogue to reach a political settlement."

His Excellency Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete
President, United Republic of Tanzania

"United Nations reforms are long overdue. Reports that consultations and negotiations are not showing encouraging signs of progress are very frustrating, indeed. We should remain steadfast and vigilant not to allow the momentum to be lost. We humbly request you, Mr. President, to use your good offices and longstanding diplomatic skills to revitalize the process. We must keep the flame glowing."

His Excellency Pierre Moukoko Mbonjo

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Republic of Cameroon

[UN summary] "He cited the deteriorating security situation in the neighbouring Central African Republic, which eliminated any hope of development. In the north, attacks by Boko Haram, more interested in imposing Sharia law than improving the lot of the population, had driven thousands of displaced persons into his country. While Cameroon would like to continue to host them, if the situation were to continue, the country’s means would simply not permit it. He called upon the parties to find a peaceful solution, as Cameroon had done in its conflict with Nigeria over the Bakassi Peninsula. That had enabled the two countries to resolve their disagreement in keeping with international law and to seal a friendship between them."

His Excellency Mankeur Ndiaye
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Republic of Senegal

[UN summary] "He described several international issues, including terrorism in the Sahel and West Africa, and the democratic transition in Guinea-Bissau. Elsewhere in Africa, the Ebola epidemic posed a risk to the entire world. He was reassured by the United Nations response in the form of its emergency mission and urged support for affected countries. For its part, Senegal had established a secure aerial humanitarian corridor. He reaffirmed his commitment to brotherly links between countries of the Maghreb and supported Morocco’s decision to grant a large degree of sovereignty to Western Sahara. Stressing the importance of the International Criminal Court to restoring peace to countries in regular crisis, he noted the honour given to Senegal in the appointment of Sidiki Kaba as President of the Assembly of States Parties to the Court. Senegal continued to contribute troops to peacekeeping operations, and the United Nations needed reform if it was to deal with the severe crises now facing the world. He welcomed the French initiative to suspend the veto in cases of mass atrocities."



Thursday, September 25, 2014

Speeches by African Heads of State at 2014 UN General Assembly - Part I

Nearly every sitting African head of state has spoken during the opening debate of the 69th United Nations General Assembly, or is scheduled to do so.

Here are brief excerpts from the speeches delivered on Wednesday, September 24, with links to the full reported remarks, in chronological order.

His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni
President of the Republic of Uganda


"One bottleneck that has bedeviled Africa has been the espousing of the pseudo-ideology of sectarianism of religion or tribe as well as chauvinism vis a vis the women. It is this pseudo-ideology that has fuelled most of the conflicts in Africa. We are also witnessing the same pseudo-ideology causing havoc in the Middle East and North Africa. When uninformed outsiders link-up with these pseudo-ideologists, the permutation is most tragic. The sectarian ideology is pseudo and bankrupt because it is at variance with the people's real interests of symbiosis, exchange of goods and services as well as integration for mutual benefit. Only parasites revel in such schemes. This pseudo-ideology should be banished and treated with the contempt it deserves."


His Excellency Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz
President of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania


"The Sahel was one of the first regions to experience the phenomenon of terrorism. But thanks to the close security cooperation between the countries of the region and the international solidarity, the terrorists were pushed back and the activities of illegal trafficking networks were paralyzed. Africans [have] rigorously faced a difficult situation in North Mali. Thus, several countries of the continent, along with international friendly forces fought against terrorist groups. The risk of terrorism was removed from the vital areas which served as a base for the launching of criminal terrorist operations. The French intervention was determinant and appropriate. Likewise, history will retain the great sacrifices made and which are still made by the brave soldiers from Tchad. But the region is still exposed to security risks which are for now relatively contained."

His Excellency Paul Kagame
President, Republic of Rwanda


[UN summary] "To manage diversity in societies, politics must be international in scope, he said, adding that negative experiences of nationalism had created doubt about patriotism and national identity. Today, it was evident that national identities were too weak. Regionalism and religions had become the dominant forces, tearing nations apart. In Rwanda, the focus had been on building Government institutions that were held to account and on renewing the dignity of the nation. As a result, Rwandans were the most optimistic people in the world, with faith in their Government and institutions. It was up to the international community to not just manage conflicts, but to help prevent and end them."

His Excellency Uhuru Kenyatta
President, Republic of Kenya


"On the continent of Africa the development model of the past 50 years has run its course. This outmoded model was defined by negative trade relations, paternalistic global governance regimes and an over reliance on Official Development Assistance (ODA). Moreover it was driven by external prescriptions for development that were heavy on political instruction but light on economic and social transformation.

"We now know better Mr. President. We know that our social and economic transformation shall come first from within our nations, our region and our continent and only secondly from the compliment of external ideas and resources. Equally important, these external contributions must recognize the primacy of our aspirations and ideas. They must value and safe guard, rather than simply exploit and consume our domestic resources and the product of our people's labour."

His Excellency Goodluck Ebele Jonathan

President, Federal Republic of Nigeria


"Mr. President, the violent and criminal activities of Boko Haram have continued to pose a potent challenge to the government and people of Nigeria. Through a wave of terror, assassinations, bombings, and now abductions and kidnappings predominantly in the North East of the country, Boko Haram is attempting to truncate development, by murder and mayhem, in these areas. In April, our innocent daughters were abducted from a Secondary School, in Chibok-North East Nigeria. This callous and criminal act has attracted empathy and support for Nigeria across the globe."

His Excellency Jacob Zuma
President, Republic of South Africa


"Given our history and heritage, we are mindful of our historic and moral responsibility in the global struggle against racism, racial discrimination and other intolerances.

"We will in this regard, continue to be at the forefront of efforts to eliminate all forms of racism, racial discrimination and any other intolerance including xenophobia and anti-Semitism....

"We will continue to support the struggles for freedom and self-determination, including the struggles of the peoples of Palestine and Western Sahara who continue to experience occupation and colonialism of different forms.

"The people of Cuba also hold a special place in our hearts because of that country's sacrifice for African freedom. We will therefore continue to support their struggle for economic liberation."

His Excellency Idriss Déby Itno
President, Republic of Chad


[UN summary] "Chad would continue to support the processes of dialogue and reconciliation throughout Africa, he said. Regarding the new Libya, which had barely begun to exist after the fall of Qadhafi’s regime, the violence had doubled in intensity and populations lived in constant fear. However, Libyans must resolutely commit to a political resolution process, which was the only proper path to ensure peace, unity and territorial integrity for Libya. Chad, as well as Nigeria, Sudan and the Central African Republic, had welcomed hundreds of thousands of refugees who had fled armed conflicts or terrorist threats. There were more than 500,000 refugees from neighbouring countries in Chad, including many repatriated Chadians and displaced Chadians."

His Excellency Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo
President, Equatorial Guinea


[UN summary] "Democracy was not an imported product, he said, and could not be designed in the offices of other countries. Democracy was formed through the application of positive values characterizing a society, and only the people were able to define the model that best suited them. Equatorial Guinea was being made into a modern democratic State, in which politics were now at their peak. The transfer of power was guaranteed through equal rights for all political options, the administration of public affairs was carried out with transparency, and human rights were monitored by reliable institutions."