CIGARETTE SMOKING: A FASHION FOR TEENAGERS?

31 May: No Tobacco Day


Thousands of people today, including teenagers, are heavy smokers due to various reasons such as nervousness, pressure, frustration, and stress. 


Smoking has claimed and continues to claim thousands of lives yearly, that it become an urgent issue to the World Health Organization (WHO) to institute a "No Tobacco Day" on May 31, 1987, to discourage and eradicate cigarette smoking.

Despite the warning on cigarette boxes, smokers choose to satisfy their desire unconcerned. The cigarette has been known to contain eighteen different poisons. 

The two most destructive are tar, a carcinogenic or cancer-producing substance, and nicotine. Some of these attack the delicate membranes of the windpipes, and those that find themselves in the bloodstream interfere with its normal circulation.

It's now like a fashion to see teenagers between the ages of 10 and 15 holding cigarettes at hideouts or in public places. It's like a competition. When you ask any teenager the reason for smoking, they smile away. 

Those capable of giving you an answer say, "They called you a baby when you didn't join the group". Tobacco smoking is said to cause many ailments as emphysema, tuberculosis, night sweats, chest pains, wheezing, loss of weight, cancer, and complications in pregnancy.

Since the campaign against smoking began, the WHO has introduced many measures to prevent smoking in buses, airplanes, trains, restaurants, and other public places. But many see this campaign against smoking as a bother or nuisance. 

They only realize the mistakes they had made when a disease is diagnosed. Cigarette smoking is not an expensive luxury but a slow, silent murderer.

A person who gives up smoking does something worthwhile for their health. But many smokers have a real battle to conquer when it comes to stopping the habit. Here are a few recommended steps to refrain from smoking. 

Staying away from other smokers as much as possible will reduce the temptation to smoke and strengthen your resolve not to start again. 

Instead of smoking, a heavy smoker should rather become a vigorous campaigner against the use of tobacco in any form. This may change the attitude of friends toward smoking.

Taking plenty of exercise, including deep breathing and long walks in the open air daily, will clean the lungs and improve one's sense of well-being. 

Eating regularly and not attempting to lose weight will gradually break the tobacco habit. A smoker who wants to quit must avoid highly seasoned foods, alcohol, tea, and coffee. These can easily influence one to crave smoking.

Drinking enough water, at least ten glasses a day, helps to reduce the craving for tobacco. Many may not believe this, but try and see that prayer is the answer to many problems. The power of Jesus is stronger than the hurricane. It is the same power that can change your life.

If you can try all or of these recommendations, you will see yourself as a different person. After your bitter experience in the dark, there is a bright light waiting for you at the end of the tunnel.

TOURISM: Kakum National Park, in the Central Region of Ghana

Tourists at Kakum National Park, Cape Coast


The Kakum National Park is a semi-deciduous rainforest that covers 360 square kilometers, north of Cape Coast in the Central Region of Ghana. 


The park, which is now a center of tourist attraction, was formally managed by the Forestry Department for timber extraction. 

Thanks to the Scientific Research Group, which conducted wildlife research and found the place quite satisfactory for tourism. Hence, timber extraction came to an end.

Beautiful fauna likely to be seen are elephants, bongos, duikers, antelopes, and a wide variety of birds. Natural scientists in the country have counted close to four hundred different species of butterflies, with the discovery of two that can't be found in any part of the world.

Be part of those walking through the forest on the Kuntan trail. The trail leads one to the park of traditional medicines, trees, and plants. Some of the trees found are the Kuntan tree. 

The skin of the tree is used to treat fractured bones. Its biological name is "Uapacca Guiniensis". Others are Kaku, the wood used for constructing railway lines,, and "Bediwunia"(incest) for pomade and fumigation.

The two-kilometer guided walk through the park is painstakingly explained by the guides, the significance of each tree as you walk through the trail. When tired and exhausted, please do not be worried about where to relax. 

There are two rest points, spaciously built and designed with some of the woods from the forest. One important factor is that, no matter how beautiful one finds anything on the trail, it is forbidden to take it out. Due to the explanation by the guides to the tourists, the trail walk usually takes about two hours.

At the administration block, the skull of the elephant, the horn of the bongo, and various samples of species of butterflies are beautifully displayed. Available for tourists are restaurants and the African gift shop, which has indigenous artworks. 

Going to the Kakum National Park is not a difficult drive. Straight ahead after Jukwa, a small rural place, the giant signboard reads "You are welcome to Kakum National Park."

SIERRA LEONE needs more International help aftermath the war

Child killers at war in Sierra Leone



The war in Sierra Leone is over, but the result is disastrous. A grim picture of victims of war with physical and psychological scars is all over the provinces. As said by one of the victims, calling for international help.


"If you can permit me, I can send some photos of war victims still on the streets of  Freetown and other big towns, having no proper care, no shelter, and no food. They only survive by begging on the street for their daily lives."

In 2008, when I visited Freetown, what I saw was really sad to narrate. How could people be so cruel? What crime has the baby or child committed to deserve amputation of both wrists? The victim's mind is still filled with sad emotions of bitterness about what happened to them. 

They can forgive but can't forget what exactly took place in Sierra Leone. The war victims are all over the provinces with amputated hands and legs. Sad to say that the less fortunate ones had both hands amputated.  

This is the biggest problem the government of Sierra Leone is presently facing.  The people need international help in terms of feeding, shelter, clothing, medical, and education for children roaming on the streets without a certain future.

This horrific war that claimed thousands of lives and maimed both children and adults could have been prevented. The developed countries were very slow to respond to the cry of the Sierra Leoneans, until they observed how serious the war was becoming. 

To halt the brutal war, many musicians, including Lucky Dube, the South African reggae star, and the great Joseph Hill of Culture-Jamaica (both deceased), sacrificed their lives to play peace concerts in the capital, Freetown. Joseph Hill told the rebels to put down their weapons, and they obeyed.

At one point, the rebels told the government of Tejan Kabbah that "You are lucky that Paa Hill is here (referring to Joseph Hill), else we shall destroy this city within twenty-four hours". 

Even though the government is working to promote the welfare of the people, especially children, youth, and women in their quest to achieve Social Justice, Advocacy, Human Rights, and Social Improvement in a participatory approach, irrespective of Tribe, Race, Gender, and Religion, Sierra Leone still needs international help.

WYCLEF JEAN: CAN HIS FAME GUARANTEE HIS POLITICAL AMBITION?

Wyclef Jean


Ambition, fame, and money are some of the tools that inspire many people into one thing or another. Rapper and R&B singer Wyclef Jean would like to be the president of his native country, Haiti.


Cross-over from one profession to another has been successful for many, but not everyone. Ronald Reagan was a former actor who became a governor in the state of California, then in 1981, went on to become the president of the United States of America.

Arnold Schwarzenegger, the Austrian-born bodybuilder turned film star, gradually made it to the top to become the governor of California. Fred Thompson, from the television series "Law and Order," couldn't achieve his political ambition as a senator because of little support.

In Africa, especially Nigeria, many millionaires, including  Moshood Abiola, Obafemi Awolowo (both deceased), couldn't fulfill their dreams of being the president of their country. The great Afro-Beat musician, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, also failed despite his thousands of fans behind him.

George Weah, the Liberian soccer star, in the year 2005, joined the presidential race in his country, Liberia, but couldn't achieve his political dream.  He is now studying economics at the University of Florida in America.

The question is, "Can Wyclef Jean's fame enhance his chance as a politician to win a seat as president in his country, suppose he wants to contest?" The answer is unknown. But it is always better for one to try something and see the result than not to try at all.

Children's Rights That Are Constantly Abused By Adults

Children's Rights

Every child has the right to live, but how many children are killed worldwide before and after they are born? Every child has the right to information, but how many are prevented from knowing the truth?

Every child has the right to education and social amenities, but how many are denied access to education and happiness? We are witnessing the cruelties against children today worldwide. 

Every child has the right to medical care, but thousands are dying every day from diseases, such as Aids, kwashiorkor, etc, in painful ways. Every child has the right to decision and opinion, but how many are victims of injustices every day?

Every child has the right to be named and to have a nationality, but there are thousands of children denied nationality by many countries. 

Every child in this world has the right to eat and drink enough. Unfortunately, thousands of children are dying as a result of hunger, famine, and lack of water every day.

When children are trained to take an interest in reading, they benefit greatly from the wider knowledge they gain from learning about people and places outside their own narrow world. Unfortunately, so many children do not know what education is about.

A child shouldn't be a victim of war or be used as a soldier. But today, thousands of children are drawn into conflicts, tribal uprisings, and wars to fight with adults.

A child shouldn't be abused, burdened, or sold into slavery for child labour. But today, thousands of children are being trafficked, forced into prostitution and hard labour in every horrific manner to make money.

A child can never fight for himself. They depend on parents or adults because they easily trust people, but today, the same adults that the children trust are making them miserable, unhappy, and even killing them. 

So, who must children depend on now for a better future? Children are an asset to national development in every part of the world. It's the responsibility of adults to give them every care, help, and education in their growth and development.

RYSZARD KAPUSCINSKI's SHADOW OF THE SUN (My African Life)

Ryszard Kapuscinski, the Polish writer and journalist



As a foreign correspondent for PAP, the Polish News Agency, until 1981, Africa was like a second home to Ryszard Kapuscinski. 


He was an eyewitness to revolutions, coups, and civil wars in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Experience is the best teacher, they say. His life experience in Africa has given him one of the finest books ever written by a white journalist.

The shadow of the Sun (My African Life) covers Kapuscinski's experience in Ghana, Nigeria, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, etc, making the book brilliant and interesting for anyone interested in great humanitarian writing. 

The book was actually published first in Polish before translation. He writes, "I lived in Africa for several years. I first went there in 1957. Then over the next forty years, I returned whenever the opportunity arose."

"I travelled extensively, avoiding official routes, palaces, important personages, and high-level politics. Instead, I opted to hitch rides on passing trucks, wander with nomads through the desert, and be the guest of peasants of the tropical savannah. Their life is endless toil, a torment they endure with astonishing patience and good humour."

On his visit to Accra-Ghana, Kapuscinski writes, "The street is a road delineated on both sides by an open sewer. There are no sidewalks. Cars mingle with crowds. Everything moves in concert: pedestrians, automobiles, bicycles, cars, cows, and goats. 

On the other side of the sewer, along with the entire length of the street, domestic scenes unfold. Women pounding manioc, baking taro bulbs over the coals, cooking dishes of one sort or another, hawking chewing gum, crackers, and aspirin, and washing and drying laundry."

The description of activities in Accra by Kapuscinski is actually Europe's image of Africa. More is hunger, disease, and skeletal children. However, he failed to ask or write the reason Ghana or Africa in general has been in such an appalling state for ages. 

Before the colonial masters scrambled over Africa, I might say Ghana was under development. Then, many years after European occupation, they left the countries they had occupied after independence, leaving the countries in the same way.

In this case, why did they go to Africa at all? Is it right or wrong when one says they were only interested in the continent's rich mineral resources? To loot but nothing else. They looted the continent to build Europe, and they left the countries in a deplorable state. 

Kapuscinski should have known better as a journalist. Was he expecting Ghana to be like a modern European country when, for a very long time, the country has suffered from the criminal activities of colonial rule?

The British and the Dutch were both in Ghana before the country attained its independence in 1957. The Ghanaians also moved in concert with cars, bicycles, cows, and goats. 

Even though Kapuscinski's book is an interesting book about Africa, he should have commented deeply on the mistakes and crimes the Europeans committed in Africa during the colonial era.

The Shadow Of The Sun is available at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Shadow-Sun-Ryszard-Kapuscinski/dp/0679779078/

CHINUA ACHEBE'S ARROW OF GOD

Chinua Achebe


Achebe's third and most ambitious novel takes us back to the setting of his first novel, "Things Fall Apart". Eweulu, the chief priest of Ulu, the god of the villages, is totally against a war that is brewing between his people, Umuaro, and a neighboring people. 


He respects the white man's power and sends his son to a missionary school so that he may know the secret of the white man's power.

His son, with the zeal of a new Christian convert, shuts a sacred python in a box to kill it. This attempt to kill a sacred snake does not improve relations between Ezeulu and his enemies, who already suspect that he has become the white man's friend. 

Another incident that lowers his public esteem is his detention by the white regional authority. In detention, he is offered the chieftainship, which he declines. 

This enforced stay away from home has meant that Ezeulu has missed eating two of the thirteen yams he had to consume, one at each new moon, before the new yam festival at the end of the year.

Chinua Achebe's book is intended to give the intelligent reader a map of themes and styles of African writing in verse, prose, and proverbs. 

African writers, whether they use metropolitan or indigenous language, have assimilated many of the mannerisms and assumptions of their particular medium, to say nothing of the social, economic, and political systems of the West, which the Africans have absorbed.

Chinua Achebe's books available at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Chinua-Achebe/e/B0045671ES

LUMUMBA'S ASSASSINATION: Sons not satisfied with Belgium's apology

Patrice LUMUMBA


On January 17, 1961,  Patrice Lumumba, the first elected Prime Minister of Congo, was murdered. The circumstances leading to his death remained a mystery until forty years later, when the secret started unfolding. 


Fresh scrutiny and those around at the time have revealed that Belgium, the Congo's colonial masters, were behind his assassination.

After the election in June 1960, Lumumba's National Congolese Movement won and emerged as the first Prime Minister of Congo. After the independence celebration of June 30th, Belgium's hostility to Lumumba deepened. Lumumba denounced the harshness, brutalities, and indignities suffered by the Congolese under Belgian colonial rule.

A strong friend of Kwame Nkrumah of Ghana, Lumumba, made a similar statement to Nkrumah. "You must have strong and visible powers". Lumumba expelled all the Belgian diplomats and called on the United Nations to defend the newly independent state. 

The action affected Belgians to the extent that the king was very angry with Lumumba. The British Foreign Office requested the elimination of Lumumba. The statement read, "I see only two possible solutions to the problem. The first is a simple one: the removal of Lumumba from the scene and killing him.

Almost fifty years after his assassination, the sons of the Congolese independence hero Patrice Lumumba are seeking war crime charges against twelve Belgians for their involvement in their father's assassination. 

His youngest son, Guy Lumumba, told reporters, "We are targeting the assassins. In Belgium, there are twelve of them still alive, and we want them to answer for their pathetic acts before justice. The twelve Belgians were in the province of Katanga when Lumumba was killed.

As if the spirit of Lumumba were taking revenge, it was reported that one of the twin brothers involved in his killing had gone insane. Lumumba's family lawyer Christophe Marchand said the sons will file a charge against the yet to be named twelve of war crimes in a Brussels criminal court in October. 

Even though Belgium has since apologized to its former colony, no legal action has been taken afterward.

Ng'ang'a Ndeveni: AN ARTIST WITH A MAGIC BRUSH

Artwork by Ng'ang'a Ndeveni

There are many talented artists in Africa. One of them that works have reached far is Ng'ang'a Ndeveni, a member of the Akamba tribe of Kenya. 

With his favorite tools, pen, and paper; he always put on the best sketches which caught the attention of his teacher to introduce him into art galleries in the city of Nairobi.

His combination of some of the highest-quality watercolors is not common within the Kenya art circle. Later on, he started working with alternative mediums as well, like oils. 

However, he says of his own works, "Watercolors give me more satisfaction and joy, and the ability to put onto paper what is in my head. Every so often I visit game parks and my tribal homeland to refresh my memories and revive my inspiration.

His paintings are extremely beautiful He has participated in many exhibitions and now his paintings are in many art galleries on the internet. As one of the admirers of his paintings; I chose one of his works to decorate my blog.

Life And Wild Life In Africa Portrayed On Paintings

Artwork by Ng'ang'a Ndeveni


Africa is a continent that many have a reason not to visit. It may be a question of safety, fear, sickness, or any other reason that has tarnished the image of the continent. 


But like any other continent, Africa is a continent with the most talented artists.

Each day in Africa passes with joy and hardships. The best part of it is the life experience portrayed in paintings. 

Despite the negative perception the continent has endured, its art, paintings, and wildlife have attracted thousands of tourists.

The Kenyan artist is called Ng’ang’a Ndeveni. 

Ng’ang’a Ndeveni is a member of the Akamba tribe of Kenya, well-known for their artistic talents and attention to the details of local Akamba life.

For those who love African paintings, there are fine collections of African paintings in stock at Amazon.com. His official website is at https://insideafricanart.com/nganga-ndeveni/

YOUSSOU N'DOUR RETURNS TO SFINKS FESTIVAL

Youssou N'Dour

As large and updated as African music is, one of the names making African music popular is Youssou N'dour. His regal garment in the Senegalese mbalax is thicker than any esteemed armor meant to be achieved in the vibrant Tama, percussion, and marimba-influenced style.

A good product truly doesn't need any advertising. Youssou has dominated African music for over two decades. He has played, toured widely, and collaborated with many international singers. Sfinks festival is not a new place for him.

Youssou played there a couple of years ago. Surprisingly, the 35th edition of this year's festival has brought him back to the podium to entertain the people.

Youssou has succeeded in transporting mbalax to the far extreme of the global platform. His concerts in Europe and America attract a large audience. 

Born in Dakar, Senegal 1959, N'dour is a singer endowed with a remarkable range and poise as a composer and producer. He absorbs the entire Senegal musical spectrum in his work.

Named "African artist of the century" by the English publication Folk Roots, at the threshold of the year 2000, Youssou has made mbalax famous throughout the world for more than twenty years of recording and touring in Senegal.

He remains a revered figure in his country and in the ever-growing worldwide Senegalese diaspora. 

He has a duet with many international stars, including Peter Gabriel and Neneh Cherry. For more information on his second appearance at the Sfinks festival, go to http://www.sfink.be/.

THE ROLE OF SWISS BANK AIDING CORRUPTION IN AFRICA

Ex-Nigerian leader Sani Abacha stole millions of dollars from the country and deposited them in foreign banks.



Dishonesty, immorality, decay, and accepting bribes summed up to corruption, which is an epidemic in many parts of the world, including Africa. 

Every year, large sums of money stolen from the coffers in Africa end up at Swiss Banks, other parts of Europe, and the United States of America. Hypocrisy is a national phenomenon. 

Most European leaders keep on attacking and criticizing African leaders about corruption; however, they are quite happy about what’s going on due to the benefits of the stolen money in Europe.

The exploitation of Africa has taken place in many ways by the Europeans. Slavery was a historical exploitation, whilst assisting or helping corrupt leaders to deposit money in developed countries is the modern version of exploitation. 

They use that money to finance their projects while Africa wallows in poverty. Yet they tagged Africa a corrupt continent while they chose 'misappropriation of funds' to refer to their own corrupt, immoral standard in Europe. 

Every penny taken from state funds in Africa hinders and retards its development, and it was a mark of double standards to label African leaders as corrupt, and be ready safe-keepers of looted funds.

Arguably, Switzerland has one of the best banking systems in the world, and this unique system has attracted to that country's banks a chunk of global foreign financial lodgments. Unfortunately, over the years, a large number of depositors included people with dubious sources of wealth, especially from Africa. 

According to a report from Global Financial Integrity, total illicit outflows from Africa between 1970 to 2008 may be as high as $1.8 trillion; Sub-Saharan African countries experienced the bulk of illicit financial outflows, with the West and Central African region posting the largest outflow numbers. 

The top five countries with the highest outflow measured were: Nigeria ($89.5 billion), Egypt ($70.5 billion), Algeria ($25.7 billion), Morocco ($25 billion), and South Africa ($24.9 billion).

According to an investigation conducted in Europe by a group of African journalists, many African leaders have amassed wealth in Swiss banks. In order not to be detected, some of the accounts are in the names of their relatives. 

In France alone, an investigation revealed that one of the leaders of a French-speaking country in Africa has 19 mansions. Further investigations revealed that he earns 15,000Euros per month. The question is how they could own houses that one is estimated to cost more than a million euros when their salary can't buy one.

In Europe and America, Africans are taken for granted. An African is seen as corrupt, criminal, and uneducated because of the magnitude of corruption that lies in the African sovereignty. Our educational certificates and credentials are considered to be fake because in a country like Lagos and parts of Asia, one could buy a fake certificate as a doctor or dentist. 

The British Embassy in Lagos, Nigeria, has seized most of the documents applicants tried to use for a visa application. Under the hard cane of our teachers, we were taught and forced to know mentally that “wheat from Canada, meat from Argentina, coffee from Brazil, etc, yet don’t be surprised to get “I don’t know” for an answer when you asked about 40 percent Europeans the capital town of Ghana or Sierra Leone. What do they care about Africa, or are they interested in letting them learn about the continent?.

Regarding development, Africa has a long way to go. China was nothing years back, today it rubs shoulders with the advanced countries. A well-balanced economy and highly technically developed. Their success doesn’t mean that there is no corruption in China. 

There is, but they develop their own country. Greed doesn’t permit African leaders to know the destruction and harm they are doing to their country through corruption. The Europeans used stolen money deposited at banks to develop their countries and call African leaders morons.

There is no way corruption will cease in Africa, but there are measures that could ensure that financial institutions in Switzerland will no longer provide a haven for illicit wealth. The Swiss government is trying to prevent stolen assets into its banks. 

This is the way to discourage the mass flow of wealth from Africa to its banking institutions. The question is, how serious are they on this issue? Time will tell. Until then, African leader must realize the responsibility lying on their shoulders to restore the dignity of the countries they are ruling.

EUROPEAN UNION TRADE POLICY AND ACP COUNTRIES

EU-ACP trade negotiations



The European Journalism Center (EJC) and the European Commission’s DG Trade co-organized a two-day seminar recently to discuss the trade between the European Union and ACP countries. 


The seminar also provided an overview of the current EU-ACP trade policy and an analysis of trade limitations. EJC journalists Mr. John Hammond, Cristina Romero, and the seminar moderator Juliane Von Reppert-Bismarck of Mlex Market Intelligence actively interacted with the ACP journalists from both English and French-speaking countries.

As a matter of fact, trade relations between the European Union and countries of the African, Caribbean, and Pacific (ACP) regions have been entangled by many arguments. 

In the wake of the global economic and financial crisis, ongoing negotiations over Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) have led to often-heated debates over agreements today, from Lomé to Cotonou to EPAs, as well as key issues such as accountability in trade and relevant case studies involving the implementation of EPAs until now.

The seminar brought many speakers, including Mr. Peter Thompson, the director of Trade and Development; Mr. Julius Sen, senior program advisor; Mr. Ralph Kamphoene, senior advisor of international trade/GSP; and Euro Commerce, among others, to discusvarious topics ranging from the overview of EU-ACP trade policy, from Lome to Cotonou to EPSs, defining accountability in trade, and reworking trade and development tools: relevant case studies.

Many traders from the Caribbean and Pacific countries trading with the European Union believe that the new trade agreement between the EU and ACP, though compatible with the World Trade Organization rules, was planned for the benefit of the EU. As a result, they fear that it could affect the economy of the ACP countries. 

One argument is, for example, that the prices of goods offered by the EU are very poor compared to what they demand for their products. Another point that was presented is that developing countries cannot compete with their more advanced European counterparts.

The speakers lecturing on different trade subjects made many points clear to the ACP journalists. For example, it was explained that EPAs were not forced onto the ACP countries, but rather they were designed to meet the WTO rules. 

A visit to the Port of Antwerp revealed how goods from Europe are handled and shipped to the various destinations, including ACP countries. The port combines a long tradition of break-bulk cargo with a state-of-the-art infrastructure. Handling around 15 million tonnes of steel, forest products, fruit, food, and project cargoes every year.

The Port of Antwerp boasts the capacity, productivity, and full range of services you would expect from one of the world’s largest ports. Offering the most convenient inland connections by road, rail, or barge, it isn’t surprising that the Port of Antwerp leads as Europe’s number one break-bulk port. 

At the end of the seminar and the trip to the Port of Antwerp, the ACP journalists were delighted and requested a similar seminar in the future. In fact, it is important that many ACP countries take this advantage to come and visit these international ports and learn how to manage the high volume of workload in the future.

THE ROUTE TO EUROPE WITH AFRICAN PRODUCTS

Africa's textile export to Europe and the US

Are you a successful farmer, manufacturer, or trader aiming to export your product to Europe? There are trade preferences that the European Union is offering to the developing world. 

To export any product to Europe, there are many issues that the exporter has to take into consideration. 

First of all, find out if your product will sell and if yes, which countries you need to export your products to, and the standard of the labeling requirements for the products within the European Union.

Diverse and confusing labeling rules remain a trade barrier between Africa and Europe, and probably with other smaller economies around the world.

Opportunities exist for unique labeling standards and to make sure that national and international rules are clear and that the process that develops them is predictable. 

Diversifying exports and switching to higher-value goods is identified by many, not least Africa need to trade if it is to make money for the development of other infrastructure on the continent.

Until recently, agricultural trade for Africa has generally meant exporting readily available, little-processed commodities such as coffee, tea, or cocoa. 

Many of these agricultural products are of low value. In addition, they are frequently vulnerable to swings in the world market price, which can leave a country's economic base in a very precarious position.

Therefore, exporters from countries like Tanzania and Ghana have been riding the rollercoaster of fluctuating world prices for coffee and cocoa for decades now, and the IMF and World Bank, as economic partners, but Africans can gain more from export trade to Europe.

What are the rules that organic products need to comply with to be exported to Europe? On 1 January 2009, new EU regulations went into effect for the production, control, and labeling of organic products; however, some of the new provisions on labeling did not take effect until 1 July 2010. 

In June 2007, the European Council of Agricultural Ministers agreed to a new Council Regulation on organic production and labeling of organic products. This new Council regulation contains clearly defined goals, principles, and general rules for organic production.

Export documentation, ensuring a smooth passage; organizing the right paperwork can make the export process much simpler and smoother. This applies if you are exporting tonnes of goods for sale or just taking a few samples to a trade show in Europe.

More importantly than ease of movement, not having the right paperwork can result in an importer not being able to accept the goods and the exporter not being paid. Certified export documentation is required by many countries. 

It is important to understand some of the most commonly used documents and when they are required, to export successfully.

Certificates of origin verify the place of growth, production, or manufacture of goods that contain a certification by an empowered authority. 

A Certificate of Origin is a document, required by foreign governments, declaring that goods in a particular international shipment are of a certain origin. 

Even though the commercial invoice usually includes a statement of origin, some countries require that a separate certificate be completed. 

Custom offices will use this document to determine whether a preferential duty rate applies to the products being imported. Certificates of origin are also important because of trade agreements and regulations that might apply to goods coming from the United States.

The data required for a certificate of origin is generally the same as for a commercial invoice. Basic information includes a description of the goods, the gross and net weight of goods, the number of packages, mode of transportation, date, and origin of the shipment, and an address for the seller and buyer. 

The certificate will also include a brief statement as to the origin of the goods. A few countries require specialized, unique certificates of origin that might include more detailed information and/or require a specific wording for their origin declaration.

While some countries require certificates of origin for all products, others may only require them for certain types of products. Almost all Middle Eastern countries require that certificates of origin accompany all shipments. 

Most Latin American and European countries, however, only require the certificate for certain products, such as textiles. Certificates of origin are generally unnecessary in Asia unless requested by the importer. African nations run the gamut of requirements.

WHAT ARE THE IMPORT TARIFFS FOR MY PRODUCTS?

Importers are expected to pay an import tax on virtually every item they import, but few know how much they owe until their shipments arrive in Europe. 

Many importers are overcharged by European Customs at the border because they did not purchase a copy of the European Harmonized Tariff Schedule and properly classify their imports. Import taxes are based on the type of item you are importing and where it’s coming from.

Getting started? And you need assistance in determining if a certificate of origin is required for a particular country, please contact the Export Helpdesk website: http://exporthelp.europe.eu/

Having enough information before you start will do you a lot of good and save you costs, too.

SOUTH AFRICA: WHAT IS NEXT AFTER THE WORLD CUP?

Nelson Mandela became president of South Africa after 27 years in prison, but he didn't have a magic wand to solve all the problems created by Apartheid leaders.


As a matter of fact, South Africans have suffered a great deal from grim terrorism, segregation, mass killings, and imprisonment without trial under the minority white rule, before the fall of Apartheid. 


The coming of Nelson Mandela as the first elected president of the Republic of South Africa gave hope to many South Africans, with the idea that poverty is over and everyone will have the chance for better education and job opportunities.

Unfortunately, their thoughts are what one could call wishful thinking. Nelson Mandela doesn't have the magic wand to heal a nation that has been crippled for ages with the Apartheid virus, which has created a big difference between "white rich and black poor." 

Unemployment soared, coupled with a high rate of crime. The suffering escalated when the Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome started taking its toll on them.

Under the administration of Jacob Zuma, South Africa hosted the just-concluded World Cup. Before the match, South Africans thought the tournament would help to create job opportunities for them. Unfortunately, the game has ended with South Africans facing another bleak future.

The World Cup has certainly put South Africa more firmly in a global perspective as the first African country to host a World Cup tournament. The question now is "what is next after all the money made in this World Cup? 

Would that create more jobs to improve the welfare of the people? Time will tell, or God only knows.

INCEST, IS IT NO LONGER AN ISSUE OF TABOO?

A brother marries his sister.


Superstition, beliefs, and performing rituals are associated with many tribes and ethnic groups in different parts of the world. For example, Saturday is the Sabbath for the Jews. 


It is a day for religious services and abstinence from work. Clans, tribes, and people who carry out traditional values believe in punishment when the law is broken.

One belief that from ages people have considered taboo is incest. Sexual intercourse between very closely related people. But as the generation advances, some of these taboos are no longer taken into consideration. How serious is the act of incest, by the way?

Incest is a common issue these days, even though it is illegal or prohibited. Just imagine a father having sex with his own daughter. A mother making love with his son. 

What about a brother making love with his own sister and vice versa? These acts people consider abominable, used to be a hidden matter, but are now mostly a public issue.

"I don't see anything wrong with this. People look at us like we are from a different planet. I love my sister, and we have a baby now". Here are the words of a young teenager who is defending his actions. The question is, does incest pose any health hazard? 

The Holy Bible speaks against incest in many ways. Also, most social scientists believe that children from incestuous affairs have higher risks for hereditary disorders.

MALARIA AND AIDS ARE STILL A THREAT TO AFRICA

Malaria is another deadly disease besides Aids.



Malaria has been a long-time tropical disease that has ravaged the African continent before the white explorers landed on the shores of Africa. It took many of them to their untimely grave; hence, the continent was referred to as " the white man's grave."


Despite the amazing discovery of scientific methods, health care improvement, vaccines, and modern technology, malaria kills hundreds of children and adults in Africa.

Africa's health care system is very fragile. Poverty has caused widespread disease at a faster rate than any other issue. Another factor that has escalated malaria in Africa is the poor drainage system. Choked gutters become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. 

The World Health Organisation, despite its effort to eradicate or control the rate of malaria in Africa, has been unsuccessful issue because to poverty.

Regarding Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), the problem is far worse than malaria. A panel of AIDS experts projected that new adult HIV cases. Infections will rise with population growth if there is no increase in spending. 

Whenever there is an outbreak of global sickness, Africa suffers most because of poverty and lack of education. Many still do not believe that AIDS is real. It is so hard to instill safe sex to many people in Africa.

The AIDS epidemic has ravaged Africa than any other continent. Despite decades of scientific efforts, there is still no cure for the disease. Countries widely affected are South Africa, Uganda, etc. 

There are a few countries, like Brazil, India, and Russia, with a limited epidemic that can finance their health care, but for most of Africa and poor countries like Haiti, Guyana, and Cambodia, AIDS will inevitably continue to turn people into walking skeletons and escalate in the digging of more fresh graves.

GOOGLE ENHANCES AFRICA'S ECONOMY ON THE INTERNET MARKET

Google: The giant search engine plays a significant role in Africa's business



Africa's unstable economy and continuous ethnic conflicts are major causes that prevent its development. Many potential investors do not trust or have any confidence when it comes to business in regard to Africa.  


Despite the continent, low internet connectivity and obstacles in the infrastructure, Google, one of the world's internet giants, wants to expand its services to Africa.

Even though Africa lags far behind other big emerging markets in the internet market and despite the expense of internet service, Google executives say Africa represents one of the fastest growth rates for the internet in the world. 

According to the World Bank and research sites, Nigeria already has 24 million users. Other big users are South Africa and Kenya.

The amount of money invested by Google in its effort to get more people on the line is yet to be known. But Google says it has around 40 employees working on Africa-focused projects.  

Among the first major plans of Google on the continent, since setting offices there three years ago, Google Maps was the expansion of google maps. Five years ago, detailed online maps weren't very available. There are now Google maps of 51 African countries.

Other technology companies are also targeting the continent's market. Microsoft Corporation, International Business Machines Corp,  Cisco Systems Inc, and Hewlett-Packard Co have sales offices throughout Africa, selling office equipment and software to 
fast-growing companies.

GAY COUPLES CHILD ADOPTION, RIGHT OR WRONG?

Every child needs a mother and a father.,



Every man has the right to decide his own destiny. One shouldn't discriminate against someone because of his or her religious beliefs or sexual preference.  


From time memorial, many have been prosecuted, imprisoned and killed for their religious beliefs or sexual preference.

Hostility, hatred, and discrimination are now the new acts against gay couples and lesbians. Society doesn't want to accept their choice of partnership and recognize their 'rights' as modest people in society. They are seen as strange people from another planet and treated as outcasts.

Biblically, the sexual preference gays and lesbians have chosen or are fighting to be recognized and accepted in our society was exactly what led to the destruction of the cities Sodom and Gomorrah. 

There are many Christians around the world, including Catholics, who read the Holy Bible daily but still practice gay and lesbian affairs. Even a pastor that supposed to lead people not to go astray officiates gay and lesbian marriages.

For some time now, a hot debate has been going on in many parts of the world over the decision of gay couples to adopt a child. Gays and lesbians think it is their right to adopt a child, but Society and many welfare organizations see it as an abominable act. Who is right or wrong?

The most prevailing influence anything can have on a child is the influence of his or her parents, especially the mother. Therefore, parents are required to develop virtuous morals and character. 

For example, most children begin smoking very early because their parents smoke. The same thing applies to alcohol. Don't try to stop your child from smoking and drinking whilst you are a heavy drinker and smoker yourself.

Children get confused when faced with situations not certain sure of. I think a straight child may find him or herself in a very deep confusion when being raised in the home of gay couples. If a child wakes up in the morning, which of the two men is he calling daddy? 

Seeing two men in bed every day is somehow a mental agony for this vulnerable child, who has no choice of her own to speak against or her dislike of that situation. And seeing two women kissing each day in front of her at home, which of them is she calling her mother?

In fact, desires, greed, selfishness, and lust in people do not enable or permit them to accept some things that are not right. The adoption of children by gays and lesbians is one typical example. 

Are they not aware that sexual identity confusion is very common among children raised by gay parents? In the first place, if they are desperately looking for a child, why can't they have their own but choose to be lesbians and gays?

In my opinion, child adoption by gay couples and lesbians is completely wrong. The world must stand strong against it. They can choose to be gay or lesbian. That is their 'rights' and decision, but they must leave the children alone.

DRUG ADDICT PREGNANT WOMEN KILLING BABIES SOFTLY

A pregnant drug addict



A drug-addicted pregnant woman has no conscience, sympathy, and remorse for the child she is carrying in her womb. All that she cares about is more drugs to satisfy her demand. The more they take it, the more they want it, talking about hard drugs like crack and cocaine.


Due to the constant taking of drugs which in turn take its toll on them, the possibility of damaging her fetus cannot be prevented. Some infants are born with deformed hearts, digestive systems, lungs, and limbs. Others develop serious or strange sicknesses as they grow.

A drug-addicted woman has no time for herself and her baby. Drugs induce them to neglect their babies. The common idea to feed her baby is not worthy and when they do, the children are inadequately fed. 

A pregnant drug-addicted woman is always penniless. They sell whatever they have to raise money for drugs and many times, they abuse themselves more by selling their bodies. Some of these acts take place in front of the children.

It hurts to see an innocent baby going through such an ordeal because of the acts of an irresponsible mother. If they know that time is not available to take care of a child, why do they give birth to babies, without prevention? 

In the past, many have suggested that such mothers should face punishment. As a matter of fact, neither punishment nor treatment for mothers can improve things. There are many drug addicts that were helped to get off drugs but later went into it again.

The only solution is the babies have to be taken from them. If there is any law which allows an addicted mother to have her child, that law must be abolished. Drug addicted mothers should be banned not to see their children. 

Giving birth to a child without seeing them could hunt a mother for the rest of her life than one living in a haunted house. That could teach them a lesson in a very hard way. Even though some may not care about such actions, this is one important solution to reduce the birth rate of these irresponsible women.

Drug addicted mothers threaten the well-being of their children. If a mother can't take care of herself how can she take care of her child? Instead of trusting these children to the care of mothers who are killing the children softly, the children should rather be protected. Save the children.