Some More Bombs Have Been Dropped... YAY?

Yesterday, a unknown amount of casualties were caused because two or more bombs were dropped near the Yida refugee camp in South Sudan. There has been much concern because it has been reported that the bombs were dropped were there are thousands of refugees. They are clumped there after fleeing from the violence in Southern Kordofan. White House press secretary stated that the United States "strongly condemns the aerial bombardment by the Sudan Armed Forces of the Yida. It is estimated that over 20,000. "This bombing of civilians and humanitarian workers is an outgrous act, and those responsible must be held accountable for their actions", stated a local. The U.S. demands that Sudan halt aerial bombardments immediately. This has also raised potential for confrontation with Sudan and South Sudan. The South Sudan president Saliva Kiir Mayardit stated that we will not in anyway support armed forces opposing the government fighting. Sudan in 22 year civil war, the militas have taken up arms against their former comrades and become a challenge for the worlds newest nation.

Egypt Temporarily Closes Pyramid on 11/11/11

by: Alex Nunez

On Friday, November 11, 2011, the inside of the pyramid of Pharaoh Khufu was closed for maintenance. It was closed because of rumors of unauthorized rituals being held that day. The only pyramid that was closed was the one of Pharaoh Khufu, the rest of the nearby pyramids and the sphinx remained opened. Also security was increased at the Giza complex. There was no unusual activity during Friday and the director of the complex and the head of the Supreme Council of Antiques decided that the rumors of the planned ceremonies had no truth. Pharaoh Khufu's pyramid is the last standing seven wonders of the ancient world and it is the largest in the complex. It was also the tallest building in the world until the French built the Eiffel tower.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-15698892

56 Dead in Multiple Suicide Bombings in Nigeria.

Two says ago in northwest Nigeria a series of bombs and gun attacks that targeted churches, police stations, and mosques. This resulted into 65 people dead and more than 100 injured stated The Red Cross. The attack lasted for roughly three hours in the Yobe the city state of Damaturu. It is reported that the gunman attacked the polce station killing 2 and injuring 5 first. The bombers then proceded to the head towards the churches and  mosques. Then three suicide bombers drove a SUV that was stolen towards the Joint Task Force headquarters however, it could not make it through the gates. Although the blast damaged some walls and a couple blasted roofs. There has been some blame put on the militant group Boko Haram for these attacks. They are also suspected in Damaturu attack reported the Red Cross.

http://www.cnn.com/2011/11/05/world/africa/nigeria-attacks/index.htm.l

Greenpeace Protest!!

Near Witbank South Africa there is a coal plant. Recently protesters have chained themselves to the plant. Protesters have even climbed the crane at the power plant. The six men that climbed the crane were persuaded by police to come down. The six men were then taken into custody. They are being charged for trespassing. The protesters are trying to prevent South Africa from being coal dependent. Construction of a new coal plant is to be completed by 2016. Eskom the state owned power company is the main provider of greenhouse gas emissions in South Africa. Eskom spokesperson Hillary Joffe says that Eskom can reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. They are also moving toward becoming more green. World Bank has donated $250 million dollars to Eskom so that they can construct a Solar and Wind power plant.

Egypt Bus Crash

By Alex Nunez

On Sunday, November 6, a bus overturned in Hurghadad, Egypt. Eleven Hungarian tourists were killed in the crash and 27 other Hungarians were injured, including 4 children. The bus was headed from a hotel to the airport when it crashed. Possible causes for the driver to lose control is the poor road conditions and the lack of road law enforcement in Egypt. Sadly, bus crashes are quite common in Egypt. There are 6,000 million deaths annually caused by road accidents in Egypt. Last year there was a crash that killed eight U.S. citizens in another Egyptian city, Aswan.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-15614512

Record for Rhino killing

In South Africa there has been a record set for Rhinos killed this year. In 2011 341 Rhinos have been killed in South Africa alone. The reason why Rhino killing has been so high this year is because there has been a high demand for Rhino horn. During 2000-2005 an average of 36 Rhinos have been killed every year. Africa has the largest Rhino population with 1,916 black rhinos, and 18,780 white rhinos. The government has been trying to decide wither to make killing rhinos for their horn illegal or not. In Vietnam they believe that rhino horns can cure cancer. Hopefully the make killing rhinos in South Africa illegal!

Somalian Famine Refugees joined By those Avoiding Strife

The new attack on terrorism in Somalia by Kenya has stirred people to flee from Southern Somalia, and many new refugee camps have formed not due to famine, but because of al Shabab's extreme form of Islam forced onto Southern Somalia. "People have a lot to be scared of from al-Shabab, things like beatings and beheadings. My family will have to accept life as refugees until Somalia is safe again," says Ibrahim Ismael Haji, who recently escaped from Somalia with his wife and nine children. An estimated half million Somalis now inhabit refugee camps in Kenya and Ethiopia.

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~Paul Ford, African News at your convenience 

http://www.voanews.com/english/news/africa/Somalia-Famine-Refugees-Joined-by-Others-Fleeing-Insecurity-132923198.html

Attack on a Car with School Exam Papers

Today, 4 people were killed and multiple injured in an attack on a car carrying government officials They were transporting school examination papers in Kenya. The event occurred 68 miles from Mandera which is a border town of with Somalia. It is still unknown of who actually carry out with attack on the car, the Kenyan police have been giving different accounts of what actually happened.The Red Cross stated that the four that were killed in heavy machine-gun fire from a small car. In Kenya they suffer with insecurity and lots of incursions. This week already Kenya was shaken with a grenade attack in Nairobi the capital. Also a man pleaded guilty to being a part of the Islamic militant group Al-Shabaab Wednesday. This could possibly be in connection with the car incident says Kenyan Government officials. 

Metro System Finally Opens in Algeria's Capital

By: Alex Nunez

Twenty-eight years ago construction began on a metro system for Algiers, Algeria, and today it was finally opened. There was a ceremony where the President of Algeria, President Abdelaziz, used the brand new metro for the first time along with many eager residents. The metro runs on 6.5 km of track and has 10 stops that connect Algiers' Central Post Office with the suburb of Kouba. The building cost of the metro was about 1.2 billion USD. The cost of a single ride is $ 0.67, which most Algerians say is too high. Originally, construction began in the early 1980's but was halted when oil and gas demand collapsed and the Algeria economy went with it. Then in the 1990's the country descended into violence which further thwarted the completion of the construction of the metro. This was certainly an exciting Halloween treat for many of the residents of Algiers.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-15532117

Death and Destruction? Stats show it's getting better.

Violence is everywhere. Drug wars in Mexico, war in the middle east, war in Africa, shootings in the USA, riots in Europe. Yet stats are showing this to be one of the most peaceful times in the history of mankind. This theory is the basis of three books, one of which is Harvard Psychologist Steven Pinker. He figures that, with evolution, we get smarter. With intelligence, violence declines. Over the centuries, the human race have developed a higher value on human life. Murder rates have fallen, racism has fallen, genocide has fallen, and discrimination has fallen, just as examples. Pinky says that even when you add terrorism, the world is far more peaceful."Terrorism doesn't account for many deaths. Sept. 11 was just off the scale. There was never a terrorist attack before or after that had as many deaths. What it does is generate fear," he said.

Despite it being a hard concept to understand, the numbers are still standing. Times now, although they don't seem like it, are the most peaceful in history

Paul Ford, News from Africa

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Warning of a Terror Attack in Kenya?

Recently, the U.S. Embassy in Kenya have hinted that they have credible information of a terror attack, just a few days after the Nation announced it is sending troops to the country of Somalia to go against the Islamist militants. They state that the attack will most likely target more popular places that foreigners congregate in Kenya such as malls, night clubs, or libraries. Details have still not been release by the U.S. Embassy on who might carry out on such an attack. However, they are still taking precautions by limiting the U.S. government visits. They have been urging its citizens to consider to travel an alternative route than Kenya. This could be in connection with the recent alleged abductions of tourist and aid workers in Kenya, which has heighten the tensions of people. On September 11, bandits broke into cottage where Britons Judith and David Tebbutt were staying, David however, was shot dead and his wife was then grabbed and was taken away on a speedboat and reportedly taken to Somalia. Lastly, a French elderly woman who was in bad health died due to the fact that pirate kidnappers refuse to gave her medicine. Multiple things have been going on that has been in connection with Kenya in some way they need to be concerned.
http://www.cnn.com/2011/10/22/world/africa/kenya-us-warning/index.html

Zimbabwe's Prime Minister Changes Opinion on Gay Rights

By: Alex Nunez

Last year, Zimbabwe's Prime Minister, Morgan Tsvangirai, joined Zimbabwe's President in opposing gay rights. Now says that gay rights are human rights and that all Zimbabweans should respect them, including the conservative section of the population. Currently, homosexual acts are illegal in most African countries, including Zimbabwe because many people view is as un-Christian and un-African. The Prime Minister says that even though there is a strong feeling against homosexuality in Zimbabwe, he hopes to change that if he becomes president of the country. Both the President and Prime Minister have promised new political reform and there is even a draft of a new constitution being processed. The Prime Minister hopes that the new constitution will allow freedom of sexual orientation but there still might be doubts about the President's opinion. He once said that gays are "worse than pigs and dogs" and the Prime Minister once agreed with him. A possible reason for the Prime Minister's change of mind is that he would like Zimbabwe to be more like neighboring South Africa and have more of a liberal policy.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-15431142

Vaccine reduces malaria in African children

A study finds that a vaccine has reduced malaria in African children. They would give children a shot that would lower their risk of getting malaria. The final results of the testing were released n Tuesday. The developers call this a milestone for the vaccine. But the vaccine wont be available for at least another 3 years. But the vaccine can still save thousands of lives. There must be further testing to see how properly the vaccine works. Tests show that the vaccine is 50% effective. Malaria kills about 1,000,000 people a year. GlaxoSmithKline developed the vaccine. Only 1500 cases of malaria are reported in the US a year. But millions of people die by malaria in Africa yearly. The testing started in 2009 and had 15,000 children involved. Right now they are waiting to see how the vaccine worked on younger children infants-6 year olds. We hope this vaccine helps and saves children lives.

Kenyan Troops push Attacks into Somolia

A mix of Kenyan troops and tanks travel 80 Km into the country of Somalia, while Kenyan aircraft bomb suspected terrorist locations. This is believed to be the first move in a plan to destroy the Islamist insurgent group al Shabab. al Shabab spokesperson threatened to attack the Kenyan capitol if the attacks did not cease. Kenya claims the attack to be in self defense, due to the many kidnappings, including the kidnapping of several european tourists. al Shabab denied all accusations, and claimed that the Kenyan Government was coming up with an excuse to invade the country. Neither side is backing down, and this conflict could lead to a lot of blood unless resolved soon.

http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-world/kenyan-troops-press-assault-on-somalia-20111018-1ltrq.html

~Paul Ford, Your corresponder for news from the glorious continent of Africa

Wooden Train Powered by Humans?

Recently, in Liberia they have constructed a human-powered train. It is called the Liberian Express however, the locals like to call it the "Make-A-Rail". The train nothing really special however, it does what the people need it to do. It is far from large with its frame made out of wood running on ball-bearings. Being pushed by the operators of the Liberian Express and also the passengers as well to make its way down the tracks to arrive at their destination. The express has helped a lot of people get to where they need to cheaper and easier. "A lot of people, especially those with heavy commodities like charcoal, use these to take them to the market", explained one passenger, Fahnlon Gbakoyah. "It's cheap to transport and it's faster". The "Make-A-Rail can take up to 36 hours to the end of the railway line to Monrovia, Liberia's capital. By road it takes 3 hours but can cost roughly half the price. The Make-A-Rail goes through villages that do not have access to the roads which really helps them get to where they need to get too. Helps people who are villages that are sick get to a hospital safer and a lot quicker. The "Make-A-Rail" started in 1990 during the 14 year Liberia civil war. The only problem is that people get tired easily pushing the train so, stopping to take a 5 min is not out of the ordinary. This is a step in the right direction for the Liberian people.

Botswana Plane Crash Kills 7

By: Alex Nunez

On October 17, a plane crashed in the Okavango Delta region of Botswana. There were 11 passengers and a pilot. Three Swedish, five French, a British, two Botswana passengers. The pilot was also British. Of the seven that died, three were Swedish, both the British passenger and pilot died, and three of the five French tourists.  The other two French tourists and the Botswana passengers lived. The plane was headed to a popular destination for safari enthusiasts. The cause of the crash has yet to be determined but it is said that the pilot was one of the airline's most experienced.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-15343061

South Africa against Walmart within the country

The company of Walmart in one fell swoop took
over South Africa by making a deal with "Massmart. Massmart is a leading brand in supermarkets in Africa.  Walmart now owns 51% of the South African based brand.

With the deal, Massmart hopes to to open 40 new outlets a year, and not just within the border of South Africa, but also in Nigeria, Malawi, and Zambia, where they already have some known presence.

People fear that the invading Empire will cause pay to be decreased, as well as destroying up to 4,000 jobs. These jobs would be in clothing, footwear, and other such stores due to Walmart's tendency to sell everything anybody could ever want.

The economics minister Ebrahim Patel said that the government must "Make a trade-off between consumption and jobs to protect the economy"

Walmart is an extremely powerful company, but to succeed on the continent, it must first make enough demand to supply before it can become any kind of real power in South Africa

~Paul Ford, Corresponding News from the glorious continent of Africa

http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2011/oct/10/walmart-massmart-south-africa-merger?newsfeed=true

The Presidents of Sudan Want to Change?

South Sudanese President Salva Kiir went on his first visit to Khartoum since the nation declared independence. He has come to an agreement with Sudanese to have talks and to reach a final solution to the continuing problems between the two countries. Kiir states that him and his government is ready to discuss a final agreement for all of the outstanding problems they have. Kiri says most of the problems are about the borders, security and mostly the economy. They would like to sign a final clean agreement as soon as possible. This is the first time they have agreed to work together in a while. Many years of violence and with there being a referendum in January, South Sudan separated from Sudan July. Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir want to have brotherly love between him and his new neighbor. The two countries are still at odd however, with the host issues when it comes to the borders, and sharing the oil revenues and the disputed oil-rich border district of Abyei. They have both agree upon committees to set a timetable to reach a final agreement.There have been five committees each focusing on a different topic. However tension has been rising between the two countries due to the conflicts the border Providences. Kiir states that "War is not a solution to our problems we have. The solution is sitting together and solving our problems."


CB:Kyle Gainey

T.V Station Attacked for Showing Animated Film "Persepolis"

By Alex Nunez

A scene from Persepolis

About 50 Islamists were arrested in Tunisia because they attempted to attack a telivision station. 300 people originally attacked the building and tried to burn it down. There were casualties but it has not been released how many. The reason that the television station was attacked was because it aired a French-Iranian animated film named "Persepolis" on it's network. The animated film is based on the autobiographical book by Marjane Satrapi. The film is considered blasphemous by some Islamists activists. Some scenes that really angered the activists were when the main character as a little girl is shown talking to god. It is also said by activists that the film insults Islam.

Sources:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-15233442

Politics are Heating Up.

Things are getting ugly in the political aspect in Cameroon. The current president Paul Biya has stated that supports and non supports are not pleased with his tactics and attitude in the presidential campaign thus far. Biya has almost been the president of Cameroon for 30 years. The electron day is October 9th and he is trying to take as many voters as possible to get re-elected for another term as president.It has also been reported that Paul has been planning to win through the rigging of the election and fraud. It is strange because there are 22 total candidates across the nation campaigning and Paul has not been seen anywhere across the field campaigning. Christopher Ambe stated that he is worried that his candidate is sitting in his air conditioned office and sending us to the field as if we are slaves. A very harsh statement from one of Paul's own supporters. He then continued on to say that young people are even being paid to by Biya's movement to support Paul and take the streets in support of the leader. Democratic front, John Fru Ndi whats the one who accused Biya of him attempting to rig the election. Ndi is now noted as the only candidate going to all 10 regions of the west African nation and looks like the top runner as of late. Uneven government distribution of money to campaign with has also taken in effect. Biya has 20 billion central African francs (40 million US) while the rest of the 22 candidates have less than 1 billion francs to split between themselves. It appears that not just Biya himself is rigging the race but the government by providing Biya with 40 times the amount of money then the average candidate.


-By Kyle Gainey 


CB:Kyle Gainey




http://www.cnn.com/2011/10/03/world/africa/cameroon-election-campaign/index.html

Maid Turns Celebrity Chef

Ghalia Mahmoud took only months for her to rise from a simple cook to a celebrity chef in post-revolution Egypt. She has given hope to the poorer class, and has become somewhat of a hero for them. "this is the new Egypt, a new era, a new Television, a new people-to-people talk, instead of authoritarian to people." Said TV executive Mohamed Gohar, adding "A lot of poor people see themselves in her"

On her show she makes simple foods with easy to get, cheap ingredients. Food such as "kack" which is a type of sugar cookie made with flour, eggs, yeast, and everyday spices. People from all over the country will call in to share recipes, and just to talk to the now famous chef. Her easy to make recipes and her laid back attitude make her more appealing to her viewers.

Her advice on cooking and success has made her a star

~Paul Ford- Your News Correspondent for corresponding news from the glorious continent of Africa

Floods in Algeria

By: Alex Nunez

On October 2nd, near a small village called el-Bayadh, there was a flood. This village is located near Algeria's capital, Algiers. 10 people died in this flood including three children who were swept away by an overflowing river. Also a mother and her baby are missing, they [also] could have been pulled down river. Hundreds of homes were also destroyed because of the flood, which obviously leaves many people homeless. Also many bridges and roads recived severe damage from the flood. During [the month of] October, Algeria usually experiences heavy rain fall which is most likey the cause of the flood.

CB: Paul Ford

Sources:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-15146194

A Lifesaving Vaccine To Reach Africa And 37 Additional Countries

by Kyle Gainey

        Rota virus and pneumonia are the top two killers in Africa. Both the Rota Virus and pneumonia kill over 500,000 children a year. In response to this epidemic, vaccines has been created to help fight against these diseases. The GAVI Alliance announced in Geneva that the vaccine has recently been approved. 16 countries have introduced the Rota Virus vaccine, and 18 countries have received the pneumonia vaccine. Sudan was the first country to introduce the vaccine in July as a part of their national immunization program- becoming the very first African country to do so. By the year 2015, the GAVI alliance and its partners plan to send funding to over 40 developing countries. That can immunize 50 million children against the Rota Virus. They also  plan to immunize 90 million children with pneumonia. But they plan to distribute the vaccine to the children who are in greater need of the vaccine first. The new vaccine will prevent millions of deaths; most importantly children will have a better chance of living a full life.

CB: Geneva Schlottman

Health Crisis in Somalia

by Luke Garcia     

   There happens to already be so many problems in Somalia. Especially with there disastrous drought and their conflicts with Somalia's political structure. In addition, they now must face a destructive health crisis. A key organization by the name of The World Health Organization has stated that their office in the Eastern Mediterranean has had a reported 6000 cases of diarrhea and cholera in just one hospital since January just this year. Even, Somalia's largest hospital Banadir Hospital has been flooded with recent cases with the same symptoms and signs. The drought has caused many people to get the infection by drinking unclean and unsafe water. This in effect, causes malnutrition and fatal cases of dehydration. Hospital workers have tried to emphasize the importance of hydration. However, even with intensive medical care and hydration most will still not survive. Children are feeling the health crisis the most as over 190 children have been hospitalized in a small timetable.  Adults have also felt the crisis as 100 adults have become ill as well within the same timetable. To make it worse, over 45 percent of AWD related deaths have been among children under 2. The organization is striving and have been building up their supplies while also working on the conflict near Mogadishu, Somalia's capital. They have stated that the number of AWD cases will rise even more between  now and October.

CB: Kyle Gainey
and Geneva Schlottman


http://www.cnn.com/2011/09/22/world/africa/somalia-health-crisis/index.html

World Mourns passing of Wangari Maathai

              People world over mourn Nobel Peace Prize winner Wangari Maathai. Wangari was an environmentalist leader, particularly for the forests of the Africa. She spent her entire life protecting and planting trees. "Nature sustains us; the food we eat comes from the soil. If we do not protect the environment, we are violating our own rights. For that matter, anybody destroying the environment, they are destroying your environmental rights."
             
               Archbishop Desmond Tutu named her "A leading voice on the continent" and "A true African Heroine"
             
               Former U.S. President Al Gore stated "[She] Overcame incredible obstacles to devote her life to service- service to her children, to her constituents, to the women, and indeed, all the people of Kenya-- and to the world as a whole."


-Paul Ford, your news corespondent for the Latest and Greatest News in Africa

Sources:
http://www.cnn.com/2011/09/26/world/africa/wangari-maathai-tribute/index.html?hpt=wo_t2

CB: Alex Nunez

Google Maps Has a New Country on Them

By Alex Nunez

    After South Sudan separated from Sudan, Google has finally updated the separation between the two on their maps.  Sadly, other map websites such as Yahoo!, Microsoft, and National Geographic have yet to update their maps. The two countries separated in July following decades of conflict where over two million people died. Six weeks after the countries split up a petition was launched on Change.org. It said that it wanted online mapping services to update the maps with the new country. The person who started the petition said that the inclusion of the new country would give its people a sense of belonging and pride. He also hopes that after Google, the other map websites will follow and change their maps as well. He also said that the people of South Sudan fought long and hard for their independence and they want the maps to catch up and reflect the suffering and hard work of the citizens of South Sudan.  

Source:  http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-15023217


CB: Geneva Schlottman

Protests Revived in Morocco

By Geneva Maniwong-Schlottman

          On September 18^th, it was reported that 3,000 people marched throughout the streets of Casablanca, one the country’s largest cities. In the port city of Tangier, 2,000 people protested against the king and the government’s actions. The protestors were fighting for the completion of the democratic movement. Earlier in the summer, protests had moved King Mohammed VI to sign a constitutional reform that gave over half his power to the prime minister and the Parliament.

          After the signing of the Constitution, nation-wide protests dropped from over 100,000 to 10,000. But the protestors, called the February 20^th Movement, say that little has been changed since the signing of the Constitution. It has also been said that the king still has power over the army and the country’s religious affiliation. Although the king promised reform, protestors speculate that it was just a front to prevent future rebellion.

        Up until this point, the king has been able to choose his prime minister. In November however, that decision will be governed by the ruling political party. All hopes rest on the parliamentary elections as the majority will be able to choose the prime minister and will govern the country’s future actions. 

CB: Paul Ford

Sources: 

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/09/19/world/africa/thousands-revive-protests-in-morocco.html?ref=morocco

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/07/12/opinion/12Charai.html?ref=morocco

Israeli Embassy Attacked in Mauritania

By Geneva Maniwong-Schlottman

On Friday morning at 2 a.m., several men were reported to of opened fire on the Israeli Embassy in Nouakchott, Mauritania.     As well as the embassy, a nearby nightclub was also gunned down as well. The armed men fled after a brief gun battle with the Embassy’s guards. Although no one was killed, five people were harmed in the shooting. Witnesses report that before shooting, the assailants shouted “God is great” in Arabic. This has led the Israeli, Mauritanian, and American forces investigating the shooting to believe this to be the acts of Muslim terrorists.

          No reason has been found as to why the terrorists tried to gun down the Israeli Embassy and nightclub. Government officials in Mauritania have tried to persuade the public that the gunmen were targeting the nightclub because of the prohibited use of alcohol and numerous prostitutes.  Mauritanian analysts and researchers suggest otherwise- they suspect that the attack was directed at the Israeli Embassy. They have reason to believe that the shooting was a part of the renewed hatred for Israel many Muslims felt. Israel’s actions with Gaza and Mauritania’s actions concerning peace with the Jewish nation have caused much grief and resentment among its people. 

CB: Paul Ford

Sources:

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/02/world/middleeast/02mauritania.html?ref=mauritania

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/01/world/africa/01embassy.html?ref=mauritania

Somali Pirates Release Captives

Somali pirates released seven Danes, five of which were a family.  They were kidnapped from a Yacht on February 24th in the Indian ocean. They were seized while on a two-year-world-round trip. Officials would not reveal their whereabouts, nor if they would be returning to Denmark.

The foreign ministry stated "They have now been brought to safety" and added that they were recovering after their six-month-plus captivity.

It's still known that there are another six people within the pirates clutches.





-Paul Ford- Your News correspondent for the latest in Africa
Corrected By: Alex Nunez

Bar Attack in Burundi

by Alex Nunez

          Unidentified gunmen opened fire in a crowded bar near Bujumbura, the capital of Burundi on Monday, September 19, 2011. There are at least 36 civilians dead and many more injured. Local hospitals are overwhelmed by the number of wounded. Most hospitals are running low on blood, medical equipment, beds and rooms, and medicine to treat the wounded. Some were even treated on the floor of a hospital. One survivor heard someone say, “Kill them all”, before opening fire. Survivors also say that the men might have worn military uniforms. Also, there have been reports that the attackers could have crossed the border and fled to the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

         The government blames bandits for the shooting but some citizens fear the rise of a new rebel group. The last rebel group from Burundi’s civil war officially ceased attacking in 2009 but random attacks still occur. 300,000 people died in the civil war. The president of Burundi visited the site and has promised that there will be justice. He also canceled his trip to New York for the United Nations General Assembly.

CB: Geneva Maniwong-Schlottman

An English Girl Kidnapped

 By Kyle Gainey

           Recently Judith Tebbutt, an English tourist staying at a remote Kenyan resort was kidnapped. The resort is being held and questioned by ruthless Somali pirates in an unknown location of the country where laws are considered void. Conspiracy expert and editor for the Somalian Report, Andrew Mwangura states that the gangs from Southern Somalia took Tebbutt up the coast and have moved her several times since. It's believed that she was abducted by an armed soldier from a lodge in a remote safari near the border of the country. While the attack occurred, her husband resisted and was killed by one of the pirates. Only one man thus far has been charged with being in connection with the case. Babitu Kololo was suspected of being a part of the kidnapping- however he pleaded not guilty to both counts against him. Another man, Issa Sheck Saadi, is will appear in court as well in the near future. No demands  were made thus far for the people captured. The details of the incident have been sketchy, and people are looking to journalists to find answers. This is not the first time the Somali pirates have done this before. They are known for attacking commercial boats and ships in the big shipping lanes between Europe and Asia. Although they have been pirating for years they have never kidnapped anybody. Authorities wait to see what the pirates' next step is from here. We wish all of the innocent the best in being returned safely back to their homes.




CB: Geneva Maniwong-Schlottman

Youth League Leader Julius Malema Convicted of Hate Speech

By Geneva Maniwong-Schlottman

               Head of the Youth League of the African National Congress (ANC) in South Africa, Julius Malema was found guilty of hate speech for repeatedly reciting “Shoot the Boer”. The song, originally sung by South Africans at the beginning of the Apartheid, means to shoot the “farmer”- or in their case- the white farmer. Although the song is found as a part of their South African heritage, the judge, Judge Lamont, found the reciting of these songs to be unnecessary. “People must develop new customs and rejoice in a developing society by giving up old practices which are hurtful to members who live in that society with them,” Judge Lamont stated.

            In South Africa, 20% of the population is white. On Monday, the court ruled songs like “Shoot the Boer” and others as forms of hate speech. As for Malema, he was required to pay court fees and was also scheduled to meet with his political party concerning his actions. Members of the party like President Zuma find Malema’s actions as threatening to the party and are one of his main opposing forces. Zuma finds his actions as questionable and also views him as a potential downfall to the success and reputation of the ANC and his re-election. If his political party finds him guilty, Malema could either have to be suspended or be called to resign.

Resources: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/09/13/world/africa/13southafrica.html?ref=southafrica

http://www.nytimes.com/reuters/2011/09/12/world/africa/international-us-safrica-malema.html?ref=southafrica

Surface-to-Air Missiles Missing From Warehouse in Libya

A stash of surface-to air- missiles were found missing from a warehouse in Tripoli, Libya. The missiles were Grinch SA-24 shoulder launched missiles, also known as Igla-S missiles. They are the equivalent of U.S Stinger missiles. The Igla-S missiles can hit a plane as high as 11,000 feet, and can travel as far as 19,000 feet. Empty boxes were also found for such things as mortars, artillery rounds, and another surface-to-air missile, the SA 7.  The director of Human Rights Watch said, "We are talking about some 20,000 surface-to-air missiles in all of Libya, and I've seen cars packed with them." he said. "They could turn all of North Africa into a no-fly zone."

Apparently, the looting of these warehouses are a regular occurrence in Libya, which makes it a growing concern of military and government officials.



http://security.blogs.cnn.com/2011/09/07/exclusive-libyan-missiles-looted/?hpt=wo_bn1

U.S Stinger Surface-to-Air missiles

Corrected By: Alex Nunez

Aid Needed for the Animals in Tripoli

Recently, at the Tripoli Zoo, a Siberian tiger by the name of Osama, has been in critical condition for the past couple of days. He just lays there lifeless, with his breathing on a hush motionless. Aid has been giving to this poor helpless tiger. A group by the name of Austria's Four Paws who are animal welfare experts. They have no clue as to why this Osama is sick. However, they have reason to believe that he is 21 years old. Which is extremely old for a tiger of his kind. The war and controversy has caused a great deal to Tripoli's zoo. The animals have had to hear all of the gunfire and rampage over the pass 6 months because of the riots and the determination of people trying to kill Gadafi. Animals ears are a lot more sensitive then humans so they have had to hear everything at a greatly larger volume. The zoo continues to struggle they have had plently of litter, there is a massive hole in there roof due to a rocket propelled grenade and lastly there was absolutely no water at the zoo for the past 2 weeks which is horrible for animals like hippos who need it to live. Meanwhile the animal rescue team still struggles to save Osama. Dr. Khalil rushed from Vienna to help with the team after seeing multiple CNN reports about the future of these animals. We all hope Osama a great recovery and all the other animals a save a happy life in the Tripoli Zoo. I hope that soon the order will once again be restored.

Petrol Pipeline Explodes in Nairobi

By Alex Nunez

An oil pipeline that exploded in Nairobi, Kenya killed more than 120 people and injured at least 110 more. Only 75 bodies were discovered; some were found in the ruins of shacks near by the pipeline and others in a nearby river.

Though no one is sure the true cause of the explosion. A possible cause of the explosion is a cigarette that fell into a sewer that was filling with oil from a pipe that was near it. Another possible cause of the leaking pipe is the fact that most pipes in that region are 40 years old. Another one of the many reasons for the leak is that many people have been stealing oil and gas from the pipes, which probably caused a spill. One last possible cause for the oil being in the sewer is that right before the explosion, a fuel tank had spilled its contents in the sewer. As people scrambled to scoop some up someone threw a cigarette into the sewer.

After the explosion, Kenya’s prime minister visited the disaster site and said it was the worst disaster in the oil sector of the country. There have been 30 major explosions within the last 2 years and this one was the worst since 2006.

Sources:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/sep/12/kenya-pipeline-explosion-deaths-analysis

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-14879401

http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/africa/fire-in-nairobi-slum-kills-scores-of-people/2011/09/12/gIQAFIEgMK_story.html

Boat Capsizes Between Zanzibar's Main Island Of Unguja And Pemba

Volunteers carry dead bodies out of the water on stretchers.

A boat capsized between Zanzibar's main islands of Unguja and Pemba. It is still unknown how the boat carrying 800 passengers capsized but it is though to believe that there was a engine malfunction while encountering strong wave currents.A plane flew over the ocean searching for survivors and reporting signs of live to rescue workers. 200 of the passengers lost their lives, while 600 were lucky to keep theirs. The boat was only licensed to carry 600 passengers but the boat tacked on an extra 200 while on their voyage. Scared that the boat could sink some passengers exited the boat before it even left the port. The people who passed away because of this tragedy were taken to a football field and separated by sexes so relatives and friends could identify the bodies. Survivors were rescued in the water where some were clinging to mattresses, wood pieces and whatever fell into the water that could keep the afloat. The death total could increase into the week.

The United Nations have arrived by Kyle Gainey

Recently, in Libya the United Nations have been trying to solve the problem of food, gas and water supply shortage in Tripoli. The situation is still very fragile. However, U.N. has been trying to help with the humanitarian situation. Although with the fighting recently esculating they have been very cautious to do so. UNICEF teamed up with the U.N to distrubute 500,000 bottles of water to the people of Libya. The World Food Programme has also played a huge role in the help of Libyan people. They provided over 600 metric tons of food which is estimated to feed over 35,000 people. In addition to this, they supplied 250,000 metric tons of gas  It is great to see all these programs grouping up to help one big cause, it is just amazing.

Experts believe that this shortage is effecting over 60% of the country of 1.6 million people. It is clear the effects the war has put on the country Tripoli. With the war now peeking it's 6th month, there is no indication of it ending anytime soon especially with Gadhafi still on the loose. The people will continue to fight until he is dead. Recently, Mustafa Abdel Jalil, the chairman of the National Transitional Council has said that anyone in the regime would be pardoned of any crime of such sort if they captured or killed Gadhafi. With there pardon they would be rewarded 2m Libyan dinars (£1m) as well. With this target on Gadhafi's head, it strikes the question. How and when will this war come to and end, and will order ever be restored fully in Tripoli? 


CB: Geneva S.

http://edition.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/africa/09/02/libya.war/index.html

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/aug/24/gaddafi-wanted-dead-or-alive-offer

Was Former Pres. Mubarak’s Control of the Media Counterintuitive?

By Geneva Maniwong-Schlottman

    Although many might agree that the media helped spread world-wide recognition of the corruption in Egypt, certain research has shown that the internet also slowed the population’s recalcitrance in the protests. According to Yale graduate student Navid Hassanpour, former Egyptian President Mubarak’s decision of cutting off all social networking was counter-intuitive to his control of the nation. After recent studies of the protests, Hassanpour concluded that after Jan. 28, the Egyptian public became more involved with their government’s actions since they had no other outlet of communication.

            When former Pres. Mubarak shut down internet access, he forced the people to look outside their windows and to actually become involved with their government. While the media helped them gain the involvement and concern of the political world, it distracted the public’s interaction. Although the number of protesters never escalated, Hassanpour’s studies show that the protests spread to different areas of the country. Instead, Hassanpour and other analysts suggest that the smarter tactic would be to discreetly slow internet access and communication or to limit it to certain areas of the population. Either way, this would prove as a more tactful approach to the control of any nation.  

           Although the media can be a useful tool for the communication of vital issues, it has also proven to be a substitute for public interaction. As the result of former Pres. Mubarak’s actions the Egyptian population became more involved- pressuring the resignation of their leader and helping speed the end of their tyranny. 


Sources: http://topics.nytimes.com/top/news/international/countriesandterritories/egypt/index.html
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/29/business/media/in-times-of-unrest-social-networks-can-be-a-distraction.html?ref=egypt
http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Observer/Columnist/Columnists/2011/6/16/1308236088727/Anti-Mubarak-Protesters-G-007.jpg

Kenya's "Swiss Knifes" Finally Have A Birthday by Alex Nunez

In the shoreline sediments of Lake Turkana in Kenya, French scientists found hand axes in the 1990's. Sadly, it was not until today that the technology was advanced enough for American and French scientist to be able to determine the date that the Stone Age Swiss knifes were made. Scientists now know that the tools' age are 1.76 million years old, older than any other previous discoveries of the Achelulian tools which were found in places like Etheopia.

Now the question is why did homo erectus not take this wonder tool with it when it migrated out of Africa? Some scientists think that the reason why the tools stayed in Africa is because the group that migrated out of Africa did not use the tools. The strange thing is that they were known to carry their tools for up to 100 km, why did they not carry their tools with them. Also, the stones had very specific designs and were planned, why leave them behind if they had so much work put into them. Now how did they find out the age of the stones?
The way that scientist were able to determine the age of the artifacts was by finding out the age of the soil it was found in. The way they did that was by using a technique called paleomagnetism. This technique tells scientist whether the magnetic bits in the soil are pointing toward the Arctic or toward Antarctica. Now, I know what you're thinking, how does that have to do with when the stones were carved. Well, in the last 10 million years, the poles have switched about 4 to 5 times. Now if they find out where the poles where at the time then they can estimate the time that the stones were carved.


Sources:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-14754314

http://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2011/09/really-really-old-tech-and-the-new-tech-used-to-study-it/244413/

Heart For Africa: People that help

           Heart For Africa is a Christian non-profit organization that works with churches and childrens home within Swaziland, Africa. They work to provide hope for the future of many children without parents, mainly due to AIDs.  It consists completly of volunteers that visist Swaziland for 11 days before the next group arrives. Within the last five years, over 5,000 people have traveled to Africa with their program.
           Heart for Africa has many projects running at the moment, but the largest of which being project Canaan. It's to raise money to help a series of sub-projects within Canaan, such as educating the youngest generation about agriculture to help the constant food crisis. "30,000 children die every day from hunger or malnutrition because they have no food or because there is no one there to feed them." http://www.heartforafrica.org/Project%20Canaan.aspx

Sudan In State Of Emergency!

200,00 flee their homes, Violence outbreaks, state in emergency, This is Sudan today. Today September 2nd 2011 Sudan has declared a state of emergency. Governor of Sudan Malik Agar has had his official residence attacked by soldiers. The army has blamed the ex rebel commander for this attack on the Governor. This is the first major outbreak of violence since 2005. Malik Agar has since then has launched attacks on police stations and also government buildings in Damazin, the capitol of Sudan. Tanks have been patrolling the city. Residents in Damazin have fled the city because of their fear of more outbreak of violence. They fled by either foot, horse, car, or donkey. Shots were heard on Thursday night and gunfights were soon to follow, Gunfire flooded into Friday morning. Since then gunfights have spread into different areas. The fighting is taking place near the border separating the Sudan from the newly independent south. Sudan has appointed a Military ruler of state. There have been air attacks that have killed 4 civilians two of them were women.