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MONDAY | MARCH 03, 2014 Title Code: DELENG18579 • VOL. 1 • NO. 8 • Page 12 • Price `10

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Celebrating Women’s aChievements on international Women’s Day this marCh

AfricA’s first womAn billionAire

Women's equality has made optimistic gains in the recent years. International Women's Day celebrate the social, political and economic

accomplishments of women while concentrating world courtesy on zones demanding extra stroke.

With astonishing professional know-how, strong willpower and flexibility, many African women have prospered in making a name for themselves. Whether they attained by moving up the grades of the corporate world, through ground-breaking invention or being rebellious for social justice, African womenfolk at the moment is at the forefront.

Africa has its first female billionaire Isabel Dos Santos, daughter of Angolan President Jose Eduardo Dos Santos. The 40 year old studied engineering at King's College, London, before opening her first business at the age of 24 - a restaurant called Miami Beach.

She is also one of the continent’s most powerful businesswomen. She is well-thought-out by Forbes to be the richest woman in Africa and the most powerful and richest woman in Angola. In 2013, according to a study by Forbes, her net worth had touched more than three billion US Dollars, devising her Africa’s first woman billionaire.

In 2007, Isabel dos Santos was labelled by Continued to page 03

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A Journey through PAn AfricAn e-network

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Lesotho: the kingDoM in the sky

Send an international women’s Day GreetingThis year, show your gratitude for the inspiring women in your life by sending them free International Women’s Day e-card. Give us the recipient’s email address with her name at info@indoafricatimes.com and don’t forget to add your name.

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i stAnD out becAuse i give fAshion A new MeAning

rajdhani and shatabdi express of the Mountains

Mahama praises economic Partnership Agreements

Bold and Confident: Isabel Dos Santos

Wassupafrica02

President John Dramani Mahama says he does not believe that the Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) will be injurious to economic interest of Ghana as suggested by civil society groups. He indicated that the nation was mindful of the implications of the agreements and made sure that it would inure to the benefit of the economy.

President Mahama gave the assurance when he delivered his State of the Nation Address to Parliament in accordance with Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution on Tuesday.

“I am optimistic about the success of these negotiations. But considering that it may not be possible for these EPAs to be concluded before the 14th October target date this year, Ghana will take into consideration transitional measures to ensure that our export is not jeopardised.”

According to ECOWAS, it has decided to sign the economic partnership with the European Union to protect exports from the region. The economic grouping arrived at this decision last month, after 12 years of back and forth negotiations. ECOWAS' decision was based on the recommendations of a committee set up to review the agreement. The Economic Partnership Agreement will allow Ghana to have 100 percent access to the European market except for rice and sugar, while EU countries will have 75 percent

mAhAmA prAises economic pArtnership Agreements

Scuba diving is one of the Reunion Island’s main attractions for visitors from

abroad, besides a range of other activities which await the intrepid travelers who chose to spend vacation time on this French Indian Ocean island. And it is through a remarkable diving feat accomplished on December 1 last year when 110 divers created the longest human chain underwater in the bay of Saint Leu that will be formally recognized by the Guinness Book of Records in the 2015 edition.

Those participating and the tourism fraternity at large celebrated the recognition on the 01st of March in a special dedication held at Saint Gilles les Bains. An extensive program was prepared for the day, including a photo exhibition, covering the event in December and an evening

reunion islanD gets into guinness book of reCorDs

President John Dramani Mahama on Tuesday said Ghana still remained the most attractive destination of investment in West Africa, despite the continuous fall of the Cedis. He gave the assurance that government would continue to provide security and protection to all those interested in investing in the country. President Mahama gave the assurance when he presented the state of the Nation's address to Parliament in Accra.

He said the current economic turbulence the country was experiencing was temporary and would therefore be surmounted in the coming weeks. He said since 2007 many countries in the world had experienced similar difficulties and were currently recovering from those challenges and Ghana as part of the global system was not an exception to those challenges. "We shall begin to see the benefits of the sacrifices every Ghanaian is making right now as a result of the economic challenges and I can assure all of you that the difficulties are temporary."

President Mahama said government would also offer support to local investors in the areas of rice, tomatoes, poultry and fish production to reduce the perennial importation of such commodities. "The reduction of importation of these commodities will also reduce the demand for the United States dollar and subsequently stabilize our local currency in the coming years," President Mahama added.

Eturbo News

BrAzIl TO PArADE AT THE UNIqUE CArNIvAl Of CArNIvAlS IN THE SEyCHEllES

ghAnA still AttrActive for investments-presiDent mAhAmA

Carnival. It it at this carnival that all the best carnivals of the world travel to annually to parade together and where cultural troupes from the Community of Nations follow as they promote their country using culture and in so doing their people.

After Notting Hill Carnival of the UK, known as the biggest carnival in Europe confirmed their participation to the 2014 edition of the Carnival International de Victoria in the Seychelles, it is today revealed that Brazil is also sending a strong delegation to the Seychelles. It is the “O Carnaval de Sao Paolo” from Sao Paolo Brazil who are themselves traveling to Seychelles for the coming carnival.

The Carnival in São Paulo is one of the biggest in Brazil. This largest city in Latin America organizes annually one of the most important Brazilian cultural demonstration full of creativity and beauty. This is the five nights of parades for almost 120,000 people singing together at bleachers that remains a fascinating spectacle that attracts

more and more people every year.For the Carnaval International

de Victoria that is held in Seychelles from the 25 to the 27 April, a special delegation of 19 people that includes very top components of the main samba schools from Sao Paulo will be traveling to Seychelles to show the best of the Brazilian culture and traditions.

The group is formed by percussionists, singer, samba dancers, a Master of ceremonies and flag bearer couple, who are traditional personages of the samba schools in Brazil. One of the members of the Brazilian Group traveling to Seychelles this year is Mayara dos Santos, the actual Princess of the Sao Paulo Carnival.

The 2014 edition of the Carnaval International de Victoria in Seychelles is being co-hosted by the Indian Ocean Vanilla Islands of the Seychelles, La Reunion, Madagascar and Mayotte as well as by South Africa KwaZulu Natal.

“We are excited to celebrate life and the magic of carnival with all of you” says Danniel Okamoto, from O Carnaval de Sao Paulo and manager of the Brazilian delegation in a message to the Seychellois people.

The “O Carnaval de Sao Paulo” group is specialized in entertainment and it acts over the Carnaval thematic, using during their performances the four artistic languages: visual arts, theater, music and dance.

Formed by choreographers, designers, dancers and musicians, the group promotes shows, artistic interventions, and workshops all over Brazil and worldwide.

They have participated in many events around the world representing the Brazilian Carnival.

They have also performed in big shows, such as the Black Eyed Peas World Tour in Brazil. More than shows or presentations, the group searches for the exchange of experiences, interacting, learning and taking the expertise of Carnaval to everybody.

Eturbo News

access to the Ghanaian market duty free and quota free.

The EU is Ghana's largest export market, accounting for more than half of all exports. But the UN Economic Commission for Africa says Ghana is expected to lose about 300 million dollars in revenue every year if it signs the Economic Partnership Agreement with the EU.

Also, the President of the Ghana Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Seth Adjei-Baah has asked ECOWAS to reconsider its stance, arguing that ECOWAS has a lot to lose with the agreement. Meanwhile, Claude Maerten, the European Union's most senior diplomat in Ghana is reported to have said the negotiations with West Africa on the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) have ended. He declared the next step is political ratification.

Modern GhanaThe world of carnivals is going to Seychelles for the unique and very popular Carnival of Carnivals that will be held from the 25 to the 27 April. Last week the mid-ocean islands of the Seychelles announced that they had received confirmation that Notting Hill Carnival of the UK was sending a large delegation to their April

President John Dramani Mahama, Ghana

concert as a befitting roundup of the day. For more information about the Ile de la Reunion visit www.reunion.fr where a number of links give insight about available

hotels and resorts, tours and excursion and places to visit while on the island.

By Prof. Dr. Wolfgang h. Thome, ETN Africa Correspondent

A captivating view of Reunion Island

MONDAY | MArCH 03, 2014

Wassupafrica 03

FRoM page 01

Senegal has obtained 7.7 billion dollars from international creditors to enact an economic and social development programme to boost the country to emerging economy status by 2035.

"Senegal has the confidence of creditors for its economic and social development plan," said Senegalese President Macky Sall. He spoke after the first day of talks in Paris by the consultative group for Senegal which groups creditors at the offices of the World Bank.

The agreement on official help is worth 3,729 billion CFA francs or 5.6 billion euros. Sall was in Paris to present his programme called the plan for an emerging Senegal which aims to boost growth in the next four years to at least 7.0 percent a year from 4.6 percent now and to achieve emerging economy status by 2035.

senegAl obtAins $7.7 billion to finAnce growth Drive

tourism in afriCa is an untappeD golDmineThe future of tourism in Africa holds great potential, but its expansion and development depends on better transport infrastructure – including airline connections, roads and railways – in addition to open borders, and improved marketing to niche sectors such as adventure and eco-travellers.

The potential of Africa’s tourism is untapped, writes Mthuli Ncube, African Development Bank Group Vice-President and Chief Economist, in the foreword of the inaugural issue of the Africa Tourism Monitor, a joint initiative produced by the African Development Bank in partnership with the Africa Travel Association and Africa House at NYU.

Africa is home to some of the fastest-growing economies.Tremendous opportunities exist to further expand tourism across the African continent, yet challenges remain. The need for solid

"We now have to merit all this confidence," Sall said, referring to reforms to modernise administration and increase the transparency of public affairs, as well as improved social security.

All the driving forces in the economy had to pull together, he said. "A new page is open."

The main targets under the plan were to "develop an economy of solidarity, all within an environment of improved administration, under the rule of law, together with peace and security." The programme comprises about 30 projects concerning notably agriculture, road infrastructure, energy, tourism, social housing, and information technology, he said. Altogether, including financing already under way, Senegal has obtained commitments totalling about 5.745 billion CFA francs.

Modern Ghana

infrastructure, in the form of good roads and transportation corridors, for better airline connections, and fewer visas to cross African borders are just a few of the reasons Africa’s tourism sector has not taken off.

According to the United Nations World Tourism Association, 63.6 million international tourists arrived in Africa in 2012, compared to 17.4 million visitors in 1990. The top six countries for international tourist receipts in 2012 were, in descending order: Egypt ($9.94 billion), followed by South Africa

($9.994 billion), Morocco ($6.711 billion), Tunisia ($2.183 billion), Tanzania ($1.564 billion) and Mauritius ($1.477 billion).

In Africa alone, travel and tourism generated 8.2 million direct jobs in 2012. Africa is home to the world’s youngest population, with close to 70% of its population below the age of 25, and youth constituting about 37% of the labour force, but making up approximately 60% of unemployment.

Afdb

Portuguese daily newspaper Público as a “Good businesswoman, very dynamic and intelligent, who’s also professional and friendly” The British newspaper Financial Times wrote, in March 2013, that

“even some critics acknowledge Isabel dos Santos’s independent prowess as a businesswoman”.

With 51% controller of Condis, Isabel dos Santos contracted a joint partnership with the Portuguese Sonae group in April 2011 for the growth and process of a retail trading company in Angola.

Her most appreciated asset - worth at least $1.1 billion - is a 25% stake in Unitel, one of Angola's two mobile phone networks, where Isabel dos Santos is a board member. Moreover, she sits on the board of Angola's Banco BIC, where she also has a 25% stake. In Portugal, she possesses a slice of former state oil company GALP in a contract with Angolan state oil company Sonangol and Portuguese billionaire Americo Amorim. She retains 25% of ZON Optimus, a listed Portuguese cable TV company formed by the merger

Let’s not create JOBSLet’s create JOB creators

SUSTAINABLE ENTERPRISES

HAND HOLDING

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

TRAINING

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LOCAL ENTERPRENEUR SKILL DEVELOPMENT & EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM

of ZON Multimedia and Optimus; and just under 20% of Banco BPI, one of Portugal's largest publicly traded banks.

Forbes registered Isabel dos Santos' net worth at $500 million a year ago. Her net worth has billowed since then mainly due to sustained study into her holdings by Forbes and Angolan journalist Rafael Marques de Morais.

At 40 Dos Santos is Africa’s only female billionaire, and also the continent’s youngest. Dos Santos speaks quite a few languages but never talks to the

media, choosing, like her father, to keep a low profile.

Angola, a nation of 18 million people, situated on the western coast of southern Africa and is rich in diamonds and oil. Jose Eduardo dos Santos has been President of the country since 1979, four years after it gained independence from Portugal.

Celebrated annually on 8 March, the 2014 theme for International Women’s Day is:

“Equality for women is progress for all”.

This year, International

Women's Day will be memorialized at UN headquarters in New York on 7 March, on the eve of the 58th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women, which begins on 10 March. The event is predicted to be graced with the presence of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and UN Women Executive Director Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, among other dignitaries.

The time has come to celebrate the accomplishments of women worldwide. This year, show your appreciation for the inspiring women in your life.

mONDAY | mARCH 03, 2014

Lesotho is a politically stable, democratic, and independent country situated

at the Southern tip of Africa and completely encompassed by its only neighbor the Republic of South Africa. The Kingdom in the Sky is endowed with temperate healthy and invigorating climate which is totally free from the tropical diseases, given its elevation from approximately 1500m to 3500m above sea level. Thus, diseases such as yellow fever, bilharzias and malaria are not prevalent in Lesotho. The country is blessed with a beautiful range of mountains, the Maluti, providing a spectacular scenery for visitors to the Mountain Kingdom, no doubt, it rightly deservers its epithet as “The Switzerland of Africa”. Lesotho is one of the only three remaining Monarchies in Africa, headed by King Letsie III as the Head of State. Lesotho was formerly a British protectorate until she gained independence on 4th October 1966. For the first time since independence, following the 26th May 2012 general election which failed to produce the winner with absolute majority, a tripartite coalition government was formed and headed by the Right Honorable The Prime Minister Dr. Motsoahae Thomas Thabane.

business opportunitiesLesotho welcomes and encourages potential investors on a Public Private Partnerships (PPP) basis in the following focus sectors:

AgricultureLesotho’s agricultural sector contributes less than 10% to the GDP but about 82% of the population still depends on it. This

sector, however, boasts a massive potential that only requires appropriate technologies and the capital equipment.

EducationIt’s over a decade since the government has introduced free primary education as an initiative to promote the motto

“Education for All”. Lesotho has two major universities, The National University of Lesotho and Limkokwing University. The Government of Lesotho attaches high priority to implement best practices in Technical and Vocational Education and Training.

HealthThe effective functioning of the health system requires an effective infrastructure development. Currently all pharmaceutical products are imported into Lesotho. Opportunity lies in the manufacture of disposable syringes for immunization, manufacture of latex condoms used in the management and control of the spread of HIV / Aids, disposable latex gloves and other health services accessories.

TourismLesotho offers a wide spectrum of tourism ranging from nature parks, game reserves, pony tracking and holiday resorts situated at the foot of the beautiful mountains of the Kingdom. The choice for recreational activities is enormous. Visit one of the lodges, right on top of the mountains, and enjoy the beauty. From Malealea lodge, for example, you can be able to go through the “Paradise of the P ass”. From there tourists get a spectacular view of the ‘Roof of Africa’.

MiningThe mining industry has come into picture by reopening three mines namely Letšeng Diamond Mine, Kao Diamond Mine and Liqhobong Diamond Mine. Lesotho is known as a source of large and high quality diamonds. Recently Letšeng Diamond Mine has produced the biggest diamond since the last 13 years and was the 15th largest diamond found in the whole world.

InfrastructureThe Government of Lesotho policy is to develop the infrastructure in almost all the sectors to upgrade and expand airports, railways, roads, industrial and commercial sites and buildings. In the past years the Lesotho’s Highland Water Project (LHWP) through construction of Katse and Mohale dams, and roads made a huge impact on both social and economic life of the Basotho people.

WaterThe abundance of crystal clear water, referred to as the “White Gold of Lesotho”, remains unharnessed, which means there is a high potential that Lesotho can supply water to all the people of the Southern African region. The current construction of the two additional dams of Metolong and Polihali (Mokhotlong) ensure adequate supply of these water resources. This is a lucrative opportunity for investors in construction works and water harvesting, including manufacturers of water pipes.

EnergyOver the past years the demand for electricity is rising significantly. So there is a need to generate more electricity using renewable resources of energy to counter for the shortage. Currently, the Lesotho Electricity Authority (LEC) is the regulatory body assuring supply and distribution of electricity in the country.

foreign trade and investmentLesotho has the door to limitless and vast trade and investment opportunity in knitted fabric mill, leather and footwear manufacturing, assembly of

consumer electrical and electronic appliances, food processing and water bottling, plastic products, resource-based projects (ceramic ware, brick making, sandstone and mining of minerals), environmental projects (waste recycling) and infrastructure development.

conducive investment environmentIn its efforts to create an environment conducive to investment, Lesotho’s government established a one – stop shop aimed at shortening registration and licensing procedures for foreign companies.

why lesotho?a. Access to markets: Lesotho is a member of two regional trade agreements: The Southern African Customs Union (SACU) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC). There are also other arrangements outside the region which include the agreement with the EU under Cotonou arrangements and with the US under AGOA.

b. enabling environment for business

(i)Attractive tax rates» 0% tax on income generated from

exporting manufactured goods outside of SACU

» a maximum manufacturing tax rate of 10 % on profits derived from sales within SACU

» no withholding tax on dividends distributed by manufacturing firms to local or foreign shareholders

» no advanced corporate taxes are paid by companies on the distribution of manufacturing profits

» easy repatriation of manufacturing profits

» VAT rate of 14% (ensuring

countryoftheWeek04

harmonization with RSA). However, Lesotho Revenue Authority has introduced flexible VAT payment system to tax complaint firms, to ease cash flow constraints.

(ii) tariff rebates and Duty free Access to global markets.Lesotho manufacturers obtain

duty and quota free access to the SACU, USA, EU and SADC.

c. investment facilitationMost of the industrial properties in Lesotho are owned by Lesotho National Development Corporation (LNDC). LNDC industrial estates can be found in four urban districts of Leribe (Maputsoe), Maseru, Mafeteng and Mohales’s Hoek. LNDC, at the request of potential investors, can assist any investors in establishing a business in Lesotho. The range of services offered by LND C to potential investors includes the following:

getting business started• Reserving a name of company• Registering a company• Getting a manufacturing license• Registering for tax• Registering for municipal rates• Immigration Issues• Visitors Visas• Residence permits• 6 months border concessions

(Lesotho)

FACTFILEOfficial Name: Kingdom of Lesotho

Head of State: Right Honorable The Prime Minister Dr. Motsoahae Thomas Thabane

Capital City: Maseru

Area: 30 335 sq. km

Population: 2,067,000 (2009 EST.)

Government: Unitary parliamentary constitutional monarchy

Time Zone: SAST (UTC+2)

Country Dialling Code: +266

Currency: Lesotho loti (LSL)

Major Exports: Garments 53%, other including diamonds 47% (2008)

Major Imports: Food, building materials, vehicles, machinery, medicines, petroleum products, inputs to the apparel industry (2010)

Climate: Because of its altitude, Lesotho remains cooler throughout the year than other regions at the same latitude. Most of the rain falls as summer thunderstorms.

Official Languages: Sesotho and English

Natural Resources: Water and Diamonds (Major), agricultural and grazing land, sand, clay, building stone

Independence Day: 4 October 1966 (from U.K)

lesothoTHE KINGDOM IN THE SKy

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MONDAY | MArCH 03, 2014

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airtel becomes 'seychelles music awards' key partner

The Telecommunication Company, Airtel, has become the main sponsor

of Seychelles Music Awards after pledging a five year sponsorship of the event. An agreement to formalise the long term sponsorship was signed at the National Cultural Centre in Victoria in the presence of Alain St.Ange, the Seychelles Minister for Tourism and Culture by Mr. Vikram Sinha, the Country Manager for the Seychelles Bharti Airtel and Mr. Terry Carolla, the Producer of the Seychelles Music Awards. At the Signing Ceremony Minister Alain St.Ange thanked Airtel for becoming a genuine partner of Seychelles Music Awards.

“You’ve come on board as a genuine partner for culture. This drive you’ve undertaken is putting culture in the forefront. A music award will only help our young and older artists to be recognised” Minister St.Ange said. The Minister said Airtel’s support for this award demonstrates the company’s seriousness for what is today called social responsibility to the community.

“Social responsibility is now the norm where people that makes money out of society, must also see ways that they can give

Vodafone Ghana is offering its data customers an unmatched 5 GB free internet bundle when they purchase any of their new modems. The special welcome offer, which previously offered

back to society. You’ve chosen the cultural approach which pleases the Ministry of Tourism and Culture. It is so important for the country to see a way forward for its performing artists, and this is what you are doing” the Minister said. Minister Alain St.Ange also took the opportunity to salute Mr. Terry Carolla, the Producer of Music Awards Seychelles for his determination to make the music award the project expected of it by the country.

“I think it is important for me to congratulate Mr Carolla for not only having an idea, but seeing his idea through. When he coined the idea of Seychelles Music Awards everybody probably said, can we really achieve this” Minister St.Ange said. For the past two years, Airtel Seychelles has been working closely with the Ministry of Tourism and Culture and have been active sponsor of culture and tourism events.

“I strongly believe that working with culture and tourism is the way forward in Seychelles, because I believe that these two sectors are pivotal for the country's economy. It is our continued desire to commit to the youth of Seychelles, either through music or sports. We want to commit on a long term basis” Mr. Vikram of Airtel Seychelles said. Mr. Vikram went on to state that Airtel is committed to now bring Seychelles artists on to the African music chart.

“We have a music award in Africa. We want to see that our artists from Seychelles reach the African chart. That is the commitment between Mr Carolla and I with the support of the Culture Department. I am personally confident that we will be able to do what’s right for the country” Mr. Vikram said.

Terry Carolla, Producer Seychelles Music Award thanked Airtel for being a faithful partner of the event, promising that the sponsorship will be put to great use in developing the music industry in Seychelles. The Seychelles Trading Companie (STC), Seychelles Breweries and Yamaha were some of the other sponsors who also came forward to present their support during the signing of partnership agreement between Airtel and Seychelles Music Awards.

Minister Alain St.Ange, the Seychelles Minister responsible for Tourism and Culture who was accompanied at this signing ceremony by Anne Lafortune, the PS for Tourism, Benjamine Rose, the PS for Culture and Sherin Naiken, the CEO of the Tourism Board said to the press that he appreciatew d the ongoing support by Airtel Seychelles for tourism and cultural events and that the country as a whole needed today to appreciate the partners who are standing with the Ministry.

Eturbo News

A powerful medium for communicationMahindra Comviva, a value added services firm has collaborated with Bharti Airtel to set up its enterprise communications platform in sixteen African countries. The program is focused to propose a single platform to sermon messaging requirements of enterprise customers related to promotions, contests, campaigns or other similar services to mobile subscribers. On the same vein, Airtel Africa Chief Marketing officer Andre Beyers asserted, “With this new platform, we will be able to extend to

our customers, a powerful medium for their communications and campaigns to be delivered to a wider audience.”

Airtel Bharti and Mahindra Comviva looks forward to associate

with some of the most popular wireless application service

providers in the region to reach out to mobile subscribers in the continent.

Also, the plus-point of this platform is that banks can send transaction information to their consumers as well as retailers can send promotional information to their customers. The solution is said to roll out in

phases throughout Africa within the succeeding six months.

vodafone increases Data from 3 to 5gb on its modem

Africa has got one more development-oriented program in its kitty. recently, Executive Director of Exim Bank, David rasquinha revealed that Exim Bank (Export Import Bank of India) has decided to establish a project advisory company (PAC) in the booming continent this year. Essentially, PAC is articulated to bring infrastructure projects in Africa to a profitable phase as well as facilitating exports from India to Africa. Exim Bank is steady on its study on Africa concluding that infrastructure development opportunities in the continent are great, projecting the annual investment requirement in infrastructure at $90 billion. In this, around two-thirds of annual requirement is anticipated for fresh investments and the remaining for maintenance.

rasquinha asserted, “Opportunities are huge. But you need somebody to make the opportunity into a bankable project. That is what the PAC will do.” At the outset, the priority for the fiscal year 2014-15, Exim Bank aims to boost Indian project structured finance and fund-raising. The PAC is a joint venture with Il&fS and is likely to have headquartered in one of the African countries itself. Also, discussions are on with the African Development Bank to participate in the joint venture as an equity partner besides State Bank of India agreeing to have a small equity.

eXim bAnk gets AheAD in AfricA with pAc

Apollo hospitAl to open in tAnzAniA

customers 3GB, has been increased to give customers more value for money.

The introduction of the offer reaffirms Vodafone’s commitment to giving Ghanaians access to innovative and affordable internet bundles. With 5GB bundle new customers can browse, stream and download for much longer. This means more quality on Ghana’s most reliable network. The telecommunications giant currently offers the most affordable and fastest modem on the market. With a speed of up to

21Mbps, the modems are valued at GH¢49. Vodafone modems can be purchased from any Vodafone shop, distribution centre and mobile sales persons in Ghana. All dongles (modems) purchased within the 30-day period will enjoy this promotional period.

Modern Ghana

Apollo Hospitals Group soon to have a clinic in Tanzania and is looking forward to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with zimbabwe government, asserted Pratap C reddy, Chairman. During the inauguration of Apollo Cancer Conclave 2014, Chairman highlighted on the super specialty clinic of Tanzania anticipated to be ready in three to four months and costing about $9 million. Erstwhile, Apollo Hospital Group signed a consent to establish a hospital in Tanzania with around 250-300 beds. furthermore, reddy asserted, “It is time that we should share our expertise to treat them. What we did for India, we owe it to the rest of the world. Especially the developing world and under developed world.” Also, Apollo Hospital Group in India is aiming to achieve 20 cancer care hospitals. At present, there are eight cancer care hospitals active in the country.

With a mission to touch a billion lives, Apollo International Group strives to reach out to people from every walk of life and do their bits to lend a hand to them to stay healthy. Apollo Group is a USD 2.5 billion group and is one of the leading and renowned business houses of India with 5 manufacturing plants in India, besides South Africa and Netherlands. Established four decades ago, it has earned the reputation of being one of the most professionally managed companies. The Apollo Group has an excellent track record of social responsibility and has from time to time been providing assistance in healthcare to many countries.

mONDAY | mARCH 03, 2014

fRaNkLY sPeaKinG06

You can do almost anything … You can swim the deepest ocean and climb the highest peak… Be a doctor or fly a plane… You can face adversity and still walk tall. You are strong, beautiful, compassionate and much more than words could ever say! Today is yours and so is every other day…

International Women’s Day proceedings are held worldwide on March 8. Numerous women, counting political, community, and business leaders, as well as leading educators, originators, industrialists, and television personalities, are usually requested to express at several events on the day. Such occasions embrace meetings, conferences, luncheons, dinners or breakfasts. The messages given at these proceedings habitually emphasize on different melodies such as invention, the depiction of women in the media, or the standing of education and career occasions.

Many students in schools and other edifying settings join in special lessons, discussions or presentations about the position of women in society, their inspiration, and problems that touch them. In some republics school children bring gifts to their female teachers and women get small presents from friends or family members. Many offices make a special reference about International Women’s Day through internal newsletters or notices, or by handing out promotional material focusing on the day.

There is no uncertainty that Africa's women are on the move. They are creating law firms, internet companies and fashion tags. They are handling banks, fortifying seats on corporate boards and running their own farm. In Tanzania, Masai women are aggressive against land grabbing and the forced movement of their nomadic ethnic group. In Mali, Muslim mothers are refusing the barbaric rituals of female circumcision that injure their daughters. In South Africa, tens of thousands of female campaigners are tangled in an anti-rape campaign. All of these women are taking lead of the faster communication presented by cell phones, text messaging and social networks.

Women are the mainstay of Africa's rural economy. They produce at least 70 per cent of its food and are accountable for half the animal husbandry. Most of what they receive is spent on the household and children; men, by contrast, spend a significantly higher amount on themselves.

Today women are no longer keen to be treated like house slaves and amateur workers. And more and more are protesting against their husbands - the abusers, rapists, drinkers and good-for-nothings who exploit their families instead of standing for them.

In the United Nations Millennium Project, which targets to cut worldwide poverty in half by 2015, nurturing women's exertions in health and education is set with the highest urgency. When the

on the move: afriCan Women at the forefront

edification level among mothers rises, infant and child mortality decline. And girls who stay in school longer are likely to have fewer children later on. The African Union acknowledged the period from 2010 to 2020 the "African Women's Decade," and sworn to fortify its sustenance of women led efforts.

To add to it, Tunisia's new constitution has made significant conversion for women, following the implementation of a clause which promises gender equality in legislative assemblies and for steps to be taken to guard women against violence, a first in the Arab world.

Women work two-thirds of Africa's working hours, and harvest 70 per cent of its food, yet earn only 10 per cent of its income, and own less than 1 per cent of its possessions. They work three hours a day elongated than the regular British woman does on professional and domestic work mutually.

Having risen to glory with their skills in very less time, I will high spot few African women who have proved their mettle and talent to the world.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, who is the 24th and present President of Liberia is standing proudly on serving her country with dedication and commitment. Sirleaf was recently conferred the Indira Gandhi Prize by President of India Pranab Mukherjee on 12 September 2013.

Joyce Hilda Banda is a Malawian politician who has been the President of Malawi since 7 April 2012. Forbes named President Banda as the

71st most powerful woman in the world and the most powerful woman in Africa.

Another glorious example is the First Lady of Ghana, Mrs. Mahama who is an altruistic woman who is all-time set to support people regardless of their ethical influences and cultural background. Unquestionably, her humanitarian charity works particularly for the deprived children over the years characterize her nature as a woman of soft heart.

Not to forget Dr. Malika Issoufou Mahamadou having the background in tropical medicine who has revealed a solid attention in public health and the anticipation of domestic violence since she became First Lady of Niger in 2011. She is often called the “marraine” or “godmother” of fistula services in Niger, and she is loyal of the work of a Fistula Care subgrantee and partner, Réseau pour l’Eradication des Fistules (REF).

A budding star, Isabel dos Santos, the oldest daughter of Angola's longtime president, Jose Eduardo dos Santos, made entrance on the Forbes list of the World's Billionaires with wealth estimated at a conservative $2 billion. She is viewed as a figure of the union of power and wealth in Angola.

As stated by Harriet Beecher Stowe “Women are the real architects of society” today we should all applaud and encourage them for the excellent job they are performing.

There is one universal truth, applicable to all countries, cultures and communities: violence against women is never acceptable, never excusable, never tolerable.

As the first woman elected to lead an African nation, President Sirleaf is an inspiration to women everywhere, for building peaceful and prosperous communities that enable the development of an informed empowered and productive citizenry.

Ban Ki-moonSECrETAry-GENErAl Of UNITED NATIONS H.E. mr. PranaB muKHErjEE

PrESIDENT Of INDIA

Tunisia's new constitution, a step in the right direction, can truly be anticipated to lead in significant change for women, subsequent to the adoption of a clause guarantying gender equality in legislative assemblies and leading for steps to be taken to protect women against violence, a first in the Arab world.

Ms. lobna Jeribi, the fighting soul behind Article 45 asserted in joy until the early hours of morning after the constitution had been adopted, “This article is a revolution in itself. It's a big, historic step, not only for Tunisian women."

further she added, “It was a very emotional moment for me when we passed it. We ourselves, in my party, were struggling to find women to participate in the political process. There is a culture and mentality of masculinity here. If we don't begin - the process will not start by itself." Ms. Jeribi is a member of one of the secular alliance partners within the Islamist-led government, the Ettakattol party.

Along the same line, 60-year-old fattouma Attia, an independent member of the assembly, who runs a textile business in the seaside resort of Hammamet asserted, "I am convinced that a woman must take her place by herself, through her own will and her competence."

But the fight of and for Tunisian women was not a piece of cake, personalities like Hatem Minaoui, a member with the Tunisian Association for Men, family and Society, had been urging assembly members to discard Article 45 from the very first day the constitutional vote began.

He haughtily noted, "Why should we here in Tunisia be the exception? Wherever you go in the world it's the same, most heads of state are men, whether in Japan, the US, Germany, South Africa or India."

And even after the happy news of Article 45 many Tunisian women feel the country still has a long way to go to diminish sexual discrimination and reach gender equality.

In the words of Héla Skhiri, National Programme Officer for UN Women in Tunisia, “Article 45, is on equality, guarantees parity between men and women in all elected assemblies, which is even more progressive considering this has not even been included in the constitutions of the majority of western countries.”

She further stated, "This effort will not be meaningful in practice unless all Tunisians together also participate in establishing this foundation."

a strugglE for nEw world

By kirit soBti, editor, iateditor@indoafricatimes.com

The AfricAn Union Acknowledged The period from 2010 To 2020 The "AfricAn women's decAde," And sworn To forTify iTs sUsTenAnce of women led efforTs

MONDAY | MArCH 03, 2014

traVeL&touRism 07

Uttaranchal - the land of gods, the home of Himalayas and truly a paradise on earth, allures everyone

from everywhere. The fresh air, the pure water, the chilling snow, the adverting mountains, the scenic beauty, the small villages, the simple people and a tougher lifestyle is what that distinguishes Uttaranchal from rest of the world.

Also known as Dev Bhumi, Uttaranchal is a boon for the pilgrim tourists. The Maha Kumba Mela, the Char Dham Yatra and the Kailash Mansarover Yatra give Uttaranchal an international recognizance. The major pilgrim places include Haridwar, Rishikesh, Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, Yamunotri, Devprayag, Nandadevi and Purnagiri.

Uttaranchal is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure sports enthusiasts. Mussoorie, the 'Queen of Hills'; Nanital, the 'Lake District'; Kausani, the 'Switzerland of India'; Ranikhet, Pithoragarh, Pauri and Munsyari are just few highlights for the nature lovers. For adventure and excitement, one may choose Mountaineering (Bhagirathi, Chowkhamba, Nanda Devi, Kamet, Pindari, Sahastrataal, Khatling, Gaumukh), Trekking, Skiing (Auli, Dayara Bugyal, Munsyari, Mundali), Skating, water sports like rafting, boating and angling and aero sports like Hand Gliding, Paragliding (Pithoragarh, Jolly Grant, Pauri).

Mussoorie derives its name from the plants of Mussoorie or shrub mansoor which are available in large quantities in the region.

T H E L A N D O F G O D SuttaranChal

Mussoorie is a wonderful hill station in Uttranchal at a height of 2000 mts above sea level. The lust green hills, the varied flora and fauna and the majestic view of the Shivalik ranges and the Doon Valley attracts hundreds of tourists both domestic and international to Mussoorie each year. Spread over a ridge, 2000 meters above sea level, Mussoorie offers distant views of the holy and mighty river Ganga from one end of the ridge, and of the famous river Jamuna from the other.

Mussoorie has a number of eye catching tourist places like Gun Hill, Mussoorie lake, Dhanolti and Kempty Falls. Kempty Falls located in a beautiful valley of Mussoorie, 15 kms from Mussoorie on the Yamunotri Road is the most fascinating and the biggest water fall.

Rishikesh is one of the most popular pilgrim centres and gateway to the Himalayan Shrines of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. The Yoga Centres of Rishikesh have enhanced the significance of the place. From this point on, the great Ganges leaves behind her mountain home and enter the vast plains of Northern India.

River Rafting in Rishikesh (Uttaranchal) is known as the Tapo Bhumi or the place for Adventure Activities and Beach Games. . Rishikesh is one of the popular pilgrimages for the Hindus. Rishikesh is best center for Adventure Activities, Beach Camping, Beach Games, River Rafting, Bangee Jumping, Flying Fox and Swing Activities.

FACT FILE Best Time to Visit:

March – June

Nearest Bus Stand:

Ramnagar Bus Stand

Nearest Railway Station:

Kathgodam which is 35 kilometers

away from Nainital

Nearest Airport:

Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport,

Pantnagar airport and Pithoragarh’s

Naini Saini Airport

mUssoorie

rishikesh

A paradise for nature lovers

River Rafting in Rishikesh

mONDAY | mARCH 03, 2014

taLkiNGtecHnoLoGy08

Providing adequate educational facilities and affordable healthcare

to citizens are two prominent concerns of many developing countries. Technological improvements in terms of communication infrastructure for delivering quality education and healthcare uniformly across length and breadth of the Country are a key factor in the progress of any country. Efforts in delivering education and healthcare from resourceful urban area/developed countries to inaccessible remote areas have yielded fruitful results in terms of access to the quality services in time and cost effective manner.

Inspired by recent advances in provision of healthcare and medical education through the use of Information and Communication Technology, noting India’s long history of assisting Africa in capacity building programmes and recognizing that Africa-India cooperation can play a major role in harnessing the benefits of globalization for mutual advantage, the former President of India Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, during the inaugural session of PAN-African Parliament held at Johannesburg on 16th September 2004, proposed in his address, to connect all the 53 nations of the African Union by a Satellite and fiber optic network that would provide effective communication for Tele-education, Tele-medicine, Internet, Videoconferencing and VoIP services and also support e-Governance, e-Commerce, infotainment, resource mapping, meteorological services etc.

The Pan-African e-Network project is being funded by the Government of India with an approved budgetary cost of Rs. 5429 Million i.e. about US$116 Million. The Ministry of External Affairs, Govt. of India has been designated as the Nodal Ministry and TCIL has been designated as the turnkey Implementing Agency for implementation of this project. An agreement between TCIL and the Ministry of External Affairs was signed on 27th February 2008 to this effect.

The first phase of the project was launched on 26th February, 2009 by the then Minister of External Affairs Shri Pranab Mukherjee which included eleven countries-Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Mauritius, Nigeria and Seychelles. As on date the project has been implemented by TCIL in 48 countries who have signed the Memorandum of Understanding for implementation of Project in their countries.

The second phase of the project covering twelve countries i.e. Botswana, Burundi, Cote d’Ivoire, Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Libya, Malawi, Mozambique, Somalia, Uganda and Zambia was launched on 16th August, 2010 by the then Minister of External Affairs, Sh. S. M. Krishna. PAN African e-Network Data Center is located at TCIL Bhawan, India which consists of Server Room, Production Control Room and a Studio.

the existing network connects the following elements: VVIP connectivity for Head of States, enhanced healthcare & educational services to the people of Africa through RASCOM satellite & submarine cable link (IPLC) based tele-medicine & tele-education network. Memorandum of Understanding with TCIL for implementation of said project and have successfully commissioned the project sites as per designed architecture of the project. Operation and maintenance phase is in progress including timely delivery of Tele-Education and Tele-Medicine services from Indian Specialty Centers.

All the 5 selected Indian Universities and 12 Super Specialty Hospitals are connected (through MPLS based IP Network) to the Data Center at TCIL Bhawan, which is further connected to the Submarine Landing Stations of the IPLC service provider. The proposed network utilizes state-of-the-art technology and can be integrated with the latest broadband technologies like Wi-Fi and Wi-max, Fire alarm, security etc. for the equipment rooms. TCIL has deputed highly skilled technical manpower at Hub Earth

A Journey through PAn AfricAn e-network

station as well as all the member countries for installation and regular maintenance activities.

tele educationThe Tele-education set up in Indian universities is equipped with studio facilities for delivery of tele-education. The Data Centre in TCIL Bhawan, Delhi has a web portal (www.panafricanenetwork.com) comprising of universal tele-education delivery system software which includes e-learning, content management and digital library solution for each university

as an integrated package. All five studios at Indian Universities are controlled and managed from the data centre for scheduling sessions, broadcasting, review learning process etc. All the learning centers in Africa act as virtual classrooms and also can be expanded by African countries for their learning requirement.

tele-medicineTele-medicine connectivity enables 12 Super Specialty Hospitals (SSH) from India to provide expert services to 49 Remote Hospitals. It provides on-line medical consultation for one hour per country per day over 5-Year Period. In addition, off-line medical advice service is available for 5 patients per day per country. Any doctor from any of the remote locations can refer the patient`s medical records to any of the

tcil-venturing Africa

ENABLING SMOOTH & EASYFUTURISTIC TECHNOLOGY FORMATION

& TRANSFERENCE INTO AFRICA, THE BIGGEST OPENING TO A WORLD

OF OPPORTUNITIES

OUR EXPERIENCE

Modernization of Agriculture

Small-Scale Industry Sectoral Planning & Development

Automotive Transport & Engineering

Providing of Waste & Garbage Management Solutions

Modernization to Fishing Fleet

Food Processing & Packaging Industry

Solar Energy & Rural Electrification

Recycling of Waste Paper & Plastic

A unit of Springboard Enterprises (India) Ltd. Plot No. 7, 8 & 9, Garg Shopping Mall, Service Centre, Opp. Sector-XI, (Extn.), Rohini, Phase-II, Delhi-110085, India

Email : indocorp@indocorp.org, Tel : +91 98115 59935, +91 98732 42080, +91 98710 04661

Super Specialty Hospital and have a Tele-Medicine video session for live diagnosis and advice by the doctors, on a scheduled time.

vvip networkThe VVIP network provides multiparty (upto 4) Video-Conferencing, Voice over IP and Internet service facilities to all the Heads of States of the 48 member African countries. This enables real-time consultation among the African head of states. Every location is provided with a VSAT terminal that connects to the Pan-

African hub. VSAT is interfaced with a multimedia computer, a video-conference system and a VOIP phone. VVIP network uses VPN security and provides the required security for such a sensitive work.

information technology (it) projectsModernization & Expansion of network & infrastructure, Sierra Leone

tcil in the capacity of infrastructure builderTCIL has been awarded a contract of Modernization & Expansion of Network and Infrastructure Project in Sierra Leone by Sierra Leone Telecommunications Company Limited (Sierratel). The Contract value is 30.2 Million US dollars. The details of the project are as below:• TCIL – Lead Contractor and

project implementor• Effective date of the project –

17th August’2012• Proposed commissioning date -

31st March, 2014.

sierrA leone –A place where very few dareThe project aims to provide Landline telephony, ADSL based internet services using state of the art IP Multimedia Services (IMS) switching platform, duly integrating existing CDMA services with a Centralized Billing platform. Fiber ring in Freetown connecting all the exchanges, Out Side Plant (OSP) works in various exchanges and associated transmission infrastructure across Sierra Leone along with other associated works of power plant and Air conditioners etc. are also in the scope. The project started on 17th August’2012 and is planned for commissioning on 31.03.2014.

siren warning system project, bumbuna, sierra leoneTCIL has ventured into a new project of Disaster Management in Sierra Leone for establishing a warning system to provide flood alert to the villages within the inundation areas downstream the Bumbuna dam site by means of electronic sirens. The total cost of the project is around INR 4 Crore and the project is funded by World Bank.

MONDAY | MArCH 03, 2014

trysomethiNGNeW 09

recharge expo indiaRecharge Expo India is a 3 days event which is being held from 6th March to the 8th March 2014 at the NSIC Exhibition Hall, New Delhi, India. This event showcases products like Copiers and printing devices, Consumables for printers and copiers, Ink cartridges, toner cartridges, ribbons, toner, ink, and CISS, Chips, OPC drums, rollers, sleeves, empties, and other components, Office equipment etc.

date: 06-08 Mar 2014 Venue: NSIC Exhibition Complex, New Delhi, India

business opportunities show Delhi Business Opportunities Show Delhi is a 1 day event being held on 7th March 2014 in New Delhi, India. This event showcases products like furniture services, educational opportunities garments, apparels, jewelry, car wash, salon and spas, cafes, domestic products, career services, beauty and wellness products etc. in the Business Services industry.

date: 07 Mar 2014Venue: TBA, New Delhi, India

cii kerala Annual Day & brand summit 2014Brand Summit 2014 will analyze the radical changes that have taken place in the brand environment and the consumer's mind space in this increasingly integrated global market place. The one day summit will see industry experts discuss about the successful national and international brand management initiatives and illustrate practical applications of the topics such as; Brand Management in the changing consumer and business landscape etc.

date: Mar 04, 2014Venue: Hotel Dream, India

india plast 2014 -international exhibition & conference on plastic industryThe Indian Plastics Industry has been growing at a rate of 12% over the years and with its true potential harnessed, it is all set to reach the 12.5 MMT by consumption making India the 3`" largest consumer of plastics by 2012. To match this figure, India would require 42,000 new machines and around US $10 billion of project investment by 2020.

date: Mar 06 -08, 2014Venue: Chennai Trade Centre, Halls 1,2 & 3, Chennai Trade Centre, Chennai, Tamil nadua, India

techfluenceThe objective is to formulate a mutual linkage / collaboration from Industry, Individuals & academia, to share new ideas, technologies and process methodologies that may align with the R&D of industries, which would accelerate technological growth in the local and global communities and provide a market place for Innovative Tech-providers, Tech-buyers and PE investors to come together.

date: Mar 07, 2014 Venue: Sathyabama University, Jeppiaar Nagar, rajiv Gandhi road, Chennai - 600 119

10th cii-eXim bank conclave on india-Africa project partnershipThe Conclave will be supported by Ministry of Commerce & Industry and the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. Over the past nine editions, senior leaders from Africa have addressed the CII EXIM Bank Conclave which has given a new strategic direction to India-Africa relations. The essence of the CII Conclave has been to encourage Indian exporters to access the African countries and increase their presence in the region.

date: Mar 09 - 11, 2014 Venue: Taj Palace, New Delhi, India

UPCOMING

Africans were the first to organize fishing expeditions 90,000 years ago. At Katanda, a region in northeastern zaïre (now Congo), was recovered a finely wrought series of harpoon points, all elaborately polished and barbed. Also uncovered was a tool, equally well crafted, believed to be a dagger. The discoveries suggested the existence of an early aquatic or fishing based culture.

You're stressing too much about what might be. Do something to take your mind off thinking about what might never happen.

THOUGHT OFTHE WEEK

1. Enjoy your meal! Bon appétit! 2. I am sorry!

Je suis désolé!3. No problem!

Ça n’est pas grave!4. Can you please repeat? Pourriez vous répéter?5. I don’t know.

Je ne sais pas.

Handy french

Benefits ofbananas

PicturE of tHE wEEK

The Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand calling on the President, Shri Pranab Mukherjee, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on February 27, 2014

FLAG NAME CAPITAL CURRENCY OFFICIAL LANGUAGE

Kenya Nairobi Kenyan shilling Swahili, English

lesotho Maseru lesotho loti English, Sesotho

liberia Monrovia liberian dollar English

libya Tripoli libyan Dinar Arabic

Know morE aBout africaThe world's largest underground lake is in Namibia. Name the lake?

Dragon's Breath Lake

Name the world's largest known complete meteorite in Namibia.

Hoba Meteorite

Which country has 11 official languages?

South Africa

Who is the first European explorer to reach the

southernmost tip of Africa?

Bartholomeu Dias

What is the former name of Burkina Faso?

Upper Volta. Its name was changed in 1984.

Bringing the taste of Addis Ababa to DelhiThe Ethiopian Embassy in Indian has opened its first Ethiopian Cultural Centre in Delhi to introduce and promote the culture of Ethiopia in India. Ethiopian national dishes such as Injera and a traditional spicy stew called wot has been enjoyed by visitors having a unique taste. IAT interacted with Mr. Mulunesh Ayele from Addis Ababa who is working there as an Ethiopian chef who has shared the recipe of her favorite dish.

1. What do you love the most about your work? Being a chef is what I like because it keeps me busy and allows me to know more about India, its people and their enthusiasm and interest to taste Ethiopian delicacies which I prepare wholeheartedly.

2. Recipe of one of the famous dish? Doro Wat (Ethiopian Spiced Chicken)

ingredients • 2 ½ to 3 lbs chicken thighs, cut into 1 inch

pieces, or 3 chicken breasts, cut into ½ inch pieces

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice • 2 tablespoons Ethiopian spiced butter, or

regular butter • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil • 3 cups yellow onions finely minced to a

chunky puree in food processor • 3 tablespoons butter • 1 tablespoon finely minced garlic • 1 tablespoon finely minced ginger • ¼ cup berbere (an Ethiopian Spice) • 1½ teaspoons salt • ½ cup white wine mixed with 1 teaspoon

honey • 1 cup chicken stock • 4 hard-boiled eggs, pierced all over with

fork about ¼ inch deep

instructions 1. Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and

pour lemon juice over. Let sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.

2. Heat the butter along with the olive oil in a Dutch oven. Add the onions and cook it covered, over low heat for 45 minutes and stir occasionally.

3. Add garlic, ginger and 1 tablespoon butter and continue to cook covered, for another 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Add the berbere and the 2 remaining tablespoons of butter and cook, covered, over low heat for another 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Add chicken, broth, wine and bring it to boil. Heat on lower flame, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Add seasonings, more berbere according to heat preference. Now, add the boiled eggs and simmer on low heat, covered for another 15 minutes.

7. Serve hot with Injera bread or rice.3. What is your most favorite kitchen tool or

appliance? Every tool is important in kitchen, have their

own usage. 4. If some guests gives a surprise visit at

your home, what would you prepare? I would make a completely Ethiopian

ambience for them with the famous Ethiopian

macchiato coffee, popcorns and in food there would be Ethiopian bread; Injera bread with fruit punch.

5. When did you joined Ethiopian Cultural Centre and best thing about working here?

I am a part of Ethiopian Cultural Centre from the very first day when it was launched. Indian chefs are very friendly together with visitors at cultural center.

6. How would you describe the tastes of India & Africa?

It’s almost same but Indian food is more spicy whereas Ethiopian food is light in spices and needs very much cooking. We don’t have chapatti in our list of food, instead there is Injera bread, Doro Wot and Baguette.

7. One memorable moment in your cooking career?

The first time I cooked at Ethiopian Culture Centre, the day was Ethiopian National Day i.e. May 28, 2013.

8. What is your definition of a perfect meal?

A perfect meal for me would be anything prepared with love.

9. First dish prepared by you and any specific memory related to it?

The first dish I prepared in my life was Doro Wot for which my family appreciated me.

1. Reduce depression2. Regulate the bowel system3. Reduce blood pressure & risk of

heart disease4. Help our bones grow stronger5. Help individuals to quit smoking6. Help prevent anemia7. Provide us with energy8. Reduce menstrual pains9. Power our brains10. Help prevent ulcers

mONDAY | mARCH 03, 2014

thefasHionistas10

The African designers have the talent and the world is their canvas. Recently, the

world’s leading logistics provider,

the lAunch of Dhl exporteD

East Africa’s most successful fashion festival, the Swahili Fashion Week, is preparing to make a full appearance in Kenya as a mainstream event, starting from April 5 of this year. Mustafa Hassanali’s erstwhile vision, which resulted in the first Swahili Fashion Week to be launched in 2008 in Dar es Salaam, has now established itself as the region’s foremost fashion and accessories event giving local designers a platform to showcase their creations and make a name for themselves in the international arena.

While the venue and program are still to be announced, the SFW organizers have set a deadline for applications by Kenyan designers to send in their particulars by February 28 to designers@s wa h i l i f a s h i o n w e e k . c o m or use their website www.swahilifashionweek.com to download the relevant forms.

Expect to hear more about this event in coming weeks as the program takes shape and the lineup of designers and models is made public.

i stand out because i give fashion a new meaningThe African continent is rising, so are the African beauties! The fresh talk of the town is local fashion icon and blogger Tsholo Dikobe for being delineated as one of the Top 5 rising stars in Africa. The crown has been awarded by the African lifestyle magazine, New African Woman in its latest issue of February 2014. Dikobe has shared the crown amongst international star Lupita Nyong’o of the movie 12 Years a slave.

Stating on the honor, Tsholo asserted “I am honored to be profiled and featured in this esteemed magazine as one of the world’s and African top 5 ‘rising stars’ alongside other prolific figures in the world of film

directing, movies, business and the fashion industry. It means my work is recognized as far as the UK hence the need to highlight this in their esteemed magazine, New African Woman.” She added, “I use my own voice to advocate for creativity and confidence building through this medium of communication called fashion, which is accessible to almost everyone. I stand out because I give fashion a new meaning, a deeper connotation than it being just about looks. I sensitize and seek to empower my community about everything there is to know about their history, habitant, culture, future and art of their lives through fashion.”

The twelve finalists for the “Miss Seychelles… another world” beauty pageant have been announced by Sherin Naiken, the CEO of the Seychelles Tourism Board. Seychelles moved from just promoting itself as a sun, sea, and sand tourism destination when President James Michel, who was then personally holding the portfolio for tourism, moved to put the people of the islands at the center of tourism development of the Seychelles and to make the mid-ocean islands an events-based destination.

The Tourism Board has since

then taken on the new approach. "In placing our people in the center of our tourism development, we now have a unique marketing base with our very own DNA, and this is our culture," said a representative of the Tourism Board.

One of the events that is now organized annually by the Tourism Board is the “Miss Seychelles… another world” beauty pageant. "We cannot be seen promoting anyone else but our very own beauty queens," said the Tourism Board representative.

Camila Estico, Lisa Rose, Elmina Savy, Marvel Godley, Anabelle Pointe, Stephanie Duval, Christa Joubert, Michaella Rosette, Melissa Pool, Raphaela Dugasse, Ronda Sidonie, and Florella Cedras are the twelve finalists for the 2014 beauty pageant set for May 31, and one of these young Seychelloise will become the islands’ ambassador for the year 2014 and attend tourism trade fairs with the Tourism Board.

Tourism remains very much a people’s industry, and showcasing “Miss Seychelles… another world” as part of tourism promotion exercises will keep people and culture in its rightful place as key ingredients in the islands’ economy. Seychelles is a founding member of the International Coalition of Tourism Partners (ICTP).

Eturbo News

Culture and miss seychelles 2014 top seychelles tourism promotion

swahili fashion week heading to kenya

Style Diary: Tsholo Dikobe

DHL together with IMG Fashion revealed about the launch of a new program namely; DHL Exported. The program is aimed to support

the fashion industry globally. The program will provide

an open and ready opportunity to well established creative

designers already known in their local markets and becoming famous in international market at a fast pace. Thus, enabling them

to strengthen their worldwide foundation via some major fashion week platforms.

In this, the designers are told to submit an application package while prioritizing among the international fashion events such as London Fashion Week, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week – New York & Tokyo, etc. Subsequently, the regional experts committee will evaluate the applicants and decide whose collection to be exhibited.

Not to mention, under the program, the selected designers would be sponsored for two consecutive seasons at each of the four Fashion Weeks along with logistics costs of production of designer’s collections.

For this mega event, the applicants are required to submit their application from February 17 – April 2, 2014.

The lucky winners would be announced at exclusive press events in New York, London, Milan and Tokyo in May.

MONDAY | MArCH 03, 2014

sPorts2WatCh 11

the most exciting tracking experience you had till date and what made it most memorable?Our trek to Kilimanjaro along with our guides Franco & Prosper has been an amazing fun-loving trek so far. We sang songs along the way and they also taught us the national anthem of Tanzania. A part of which we remember went like 'Mungu ibariki Tanzania, Dumisha uhuru na Umoja, Wake kwa Waume na Watoto, Mungu Ibariki Tanzania na watu wake'.

conquering such tallest peaks would not have been a simple quest for you. what are the major challenges faced by you during mountaineering?

challenges post decision to attempt everest:-Mom’s firm ‘over my dead body’ stand on our plans for Everest. Two precious years lost, but also much gained. Financial woes of parents. Mustering estimated Rs 40 lacs in cash was the first ever serious financial challenge our dad faced! Mother loves to wear gold and had to mortgage it for bank loan of 6.5 lacs. This weighed heavily on our minds right up to our summit attempt and on the way down.challenges during everest:-Walking past dead bodies. ‘Down’ at the start! Our menstrual cycle could not have come at a worst time. The final push from Camp

the tallest peak of the African continent?At the age of 10 we wished to visit Africa because we were amazed by the wildlife and the people. Having stood atop Kilimanjaro which is the highest point, felt just

'INCREDIBLE'. Mountain of light as we would say.

what gave birth to your extreme love for mountaineering? We have been exposed to outdoors from very early childhood due to our father’s military profession and his passion for outdoors. We did parasailing at age 7, tied with a shawl to our father’s back! We also did river rafting and skiing. Our serious engagement with mountaineering started soon after our 12th exams got over, when our father applied on our behalf for the basic mountaineering course at N.I.M, Uttarkashi.

what has been your greatest accomplishment as a mountaineer? Standing on the 'top of the world' has been so far our most memorable and historic achievement. We are extremely proud to have accomplished this feat on behalf of our country and all the women who live here with courage and determination.

who is your inspiration in life and why?Our parents! They have been a

great motivator and are more like our ‘buddy’ than a typical parent.

list 5 words that describe you?nungshi: Adventurous, Explorative, Diligent, Extrovert and Beautiful!tashi: Passionate, Adventurous, Spiritual, Sociable, Creative and Elegant!

what is the best compliment you have ever received? WE are called 'Rajdhani Express' and 'Shatabdi Express' of the mountains which are the fastest passenger trains operated by Indian railways.

rank the four missions completed by you till date?

these are ranked in terms of ascents made mt. Kilimanjaro(2012) mt. Everest(2013) mt. Elbrus(2013) mt. Aconcagua(2014)

these are ranked in terms of difficulty mt. Everest mt. Aconcagua mt. Kilimanjaro mt. Elbrus

what do you like the most about india?The Geography (the mountains, lakes, deserts, rain-forests) and the Cultural diversity we have.

IV at nearly 26500 ft through the death zone is a nonstop 10-12 hours walk up, and 6-8 hours down. Despite our best prayers, we both landed having our menses start during this period and the agonizing prospects of this ruining our life’s biggest dream just 800 odd meters short of the summit!

Snag with oxygen supply and Nungshi’s near death experience. Despite all precautions, the ordinarily fitter of the twins, the unfortunate snag in Nungshi’s oxygen supply led to momentary unconsciousness at a location (death zone) ‘where no one can rescue you if you can’t walk on your own feet’!

with what thought you initiated #mission2for7 and what kind of aid you anticipate from the mother land, india?#Mission2For7 was born out of the juxtaposition of our love for mountaineering and our desire to fight for the cause of Indian girl child. Coming from a place with female feticide and increasing violence against the girl child, we want to stand for her as she climbs mountains through life’s journey. We need huge financial support as we stand for the rights of the Indian girl child. Know more about our support for the cause of the Indian Girl Child. (www.nungshitashi.com)

how did you feel standing at

Kenya’s most important international golfing tournament, the Barclays Kenya Open, which will take off on 4th March at the Karen Country Club, has received a major sponsorship boost when Hemingways came on board with their offer to accommodate tournament officials and administrators and is thought to be worth over 2.3 million Kenya shillings.

This year’s Kenya Open is again part of the European Tour and as such an event which attracts major players, promising once again a hotly contested tournament from March 6-9 inclusive. for more tournament information check out their facebook pages via https://www.facebook.com/Kenyaopengolf or go to www.kenya-opengolf.com

By Prof. Dr. Wolfgang H. Thome, Etn Africa Correspondent

kenyA open golf toUrnAment gets sponsorship boost

stanchart and visa unveils world cup promotionStandard Chartered Bank and Visa, one of the world's largest retail electronic payment networks, have entered into a partnership to offer 2014 FIFA World Cup rewards to customers in Ghana. In a promotion dubbed, 'Experience Brazil Live', the relationship will offer the Bank's Visa card customers an opportunity to win a trip for two package to watch the Ghana Black Stars compete for honours in Brazil when the tournament commences in June this year, courtesy of Visa.

A statement signed by Nii Okai Nunoo, Area Head of Corporate Affairs, West Africa, Standard Chartered Bank, said the Bank intends to use the platform to reward customer loyalty and also project its

strategy of being the digital main Bank in the country. The promotion, which commenced on February 21 till April 30, requires all new and existing Visa Gold, Platinum and Infinite card holders to use their Visa debit cards online and at points of sale terminals within or outside the country when paying for goods and services in order to accumulate points.

The customer with the highest number of points at the end of the promotion wins a 3-night trip for two to the FIFA World Cup, courtesy of Visa, official FIFA World Cup partner in Brazil. The package also includes a 'Stadium tour', a Visa FIFA Four-star hotel accommodation treatment, a Visa event team support staff and US$ 300 Visa prepaid money card.

Mr. Kweku Bedu-Addo, Chief

Executive of Standard Chartered Bank Ghana Limited, said 'the vision of a cashless society in Ghana is something we are passionate about as a Bank.'

He said their outfits believe that, 'to collectively attain this height, a concerted effort has to be made by financial institutions such

rajDhani anD shatabDi express of the mountains

as ours. This campaign is one key step in realizing this dream.' 'As a Bank, rewarding our customers is a gesture that will continue to define the way we treat loyalty - it is an ethos that sits well with our business strategy and our brand promise, Here for good'. He added. Standard Chartered was the first

Bank in Ghana to introduce the Visa card payment platform in 2001 and currently issues Visa premium cards - Gold, Platinum and Infinite - bringing benefits such as convenience to customers and offering emergency cash.

Modern Ghana

The Twins: Nungshi and Tashi

mONDAY | mARCH 03, 2014

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india’s relation with comoros has gained momentum after the visit of the president of the Union of comoros to attend the international confederation on federalism. how do you foresee the future of comoros & india bilateral trade relations?

India and Comoros have always enjoyed close and friendly relations. The bilateral relations between Comoros and India started long back. During recent years there have been a number of high-level visits between our two countries. In 2005, the Foreign Minister of Comoros came on an official visit and lot of bilateral issues were discussed. A lot of issues were finalized. In 2007, President of the Union of Comoros, Mr. Ahmed Abdullah Mohamed Sambi visited India at the invitation of India’s Prime Minister to participate in the 4th International Conference on Federalism. He had discussions with the Prime Minister, President and the Foreign Minister of India on the regional and bilateral cooperation between Comoros and India.

how developed are the medical facilities in comoros? what is the

scope of medical tourism between comoros and india?

Medical care is available throughout the country but for specialized treatment people have to go out of the country. After I took over as the Consul General of the Union of the Comoros in India in 2005, I encouraged people to travel to India for treatment. Contemporary and state of the art infrastructure, high end technological support, and excellent quality of health care, make India, an alluring medical trip destination.

As we are aware that comoros is the second largest producer of the cloves and nutmeg in the world. is comoros is ready to export these spices to india?

Yes, Comoros is credited as the second largest producer of cloves and nutmeg in the world. Comorian cloves are exported to India via other channels like Madagascar, Zanzibar and Dubai. In the last two years, I have made lot of efforts to convince the importers from India to go directly and talk to the exporters of Comoros. The Government of Comoros has relaxed export charge rates on

many export items. These steps have encouraged the businessmen to export from Comoros and make profits.

small and medium-scale industries can play an important role in the process of country’s industrial and economic development. how do you support the setting of small scale business incubators in your country?

Small and Medium Scale industries are the best options to attain inclusive growth in Comoros as they contribute notably to income generation and job creation. I would be very happy if some of the industrialists in India go and explore the possibilities of setting up of 3 main industries viz food processing industry, fishing and the tourism industry. Prospects are promising in the fishing sector of Comoros.

what are your efforts to promote the tourism sector of the Union of comoros in india?

I am thankful to the Kenyan Airways as they have started direct flight from New Delhi to Nairobi. I think by adding

these flights you can be in Comoros in less than 10 hours time. It will definitely give a boost to our tourism. Also, I am trying to take some promotional material of Comoros to encourage people to visit Comoros and I am sure it would be a splendid experience for tourists.

how would you propose to indians to invest in comoros?

Government is willing to give all the incentives which are possible. After the new regime which took over in May 2011, the economic reforms have been accelerating and the results very good. Today the economy of the country has re-established, the revenue has increased, things are better than what they were earlier. Indian businessmen have also travelled to Comoros to sign some contracts.

where do you see comoros five years down the line?

I am very hopeful that Comoros five years down the line will lead on the path of progress because the stability in our Government.

Comoros being an archipelago in the Indian Ocean has beaches of dazzling beauty. The Island nation can very much prove an attractive destination for Indian tourists where they can relax and frolic in its picturesque beach resorts of higher international standard. In an exclusive interview to Kanchi Batra, Sub-Editor, IAT Mr. K.l. Ganju highlighted all that Comoros has, to benefit the Indian business community and briefed his vision to further strengthen the relations between Comoros and India.

india is looked upon as a role model of development in Comoros

Mr. k.L. Ganju, o.C.V.C.Consul General (Hony.), Republic of Union of the Comoros

MONDAY | MArCH 03, 2014