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Asante Issue Num

ber 013 February - April 2013

A Vanishing Way of Life

Night

Uganda’s Fashion Industry

Kampala by

Issue 13

Diani’s favourite destination for holidaymakers and business travellers alike is delighted to have been voted Kenya’s Leading Resort at the World Travel Awards 2012 – for the third year running! The resort has recently undergone major renovations including new and improved wining & dining venues and the addition of ‘The Residences’ - a contemporary private villa complex. To celebrate our new look, we are pleased to announce a range of offers for our fellow residents and we look forward to showing you our new spots. Karibu!

take a tour: www.leopardbeachresort.comdrop us a line: nbobookingoffice@leopardbeachresort.comcall us: +254 (0)20 2692844, 0726 803861, 0701 772023

We’d like to make it evidentTo every EA ResidentThat when you stay with usWe won’t charge you for the bus

You can have five nights for fourAnd your kids can sleep next doorOr if you feeling rather madOne can share with Mum and Dad

And for those who need to workYou’ll get every conference perkAnd when your meetings are all doneBring your spouse and have some fun!

Terms and Conditions:Offer valid from February 1st 2013 to April 24th 2013, excluding the Easter Holiday period. Offer includes:· One child sharing with parents up to the age of 12 years free of charge including meals and special rates

for children in a separate room· Five nights for the price of four· No Single Room Supplements in standard rooms· Conference package – 1 in 10 delegates go FREE including FREE Conference and meeting rooms and

spouses stay FREE on bed only basis· FREE transfers from and to Diani Airstrip (unlike other fine resorts)

We at Leopard Beach are jolly proud at being voted Kenya’s Leading Resort for the third year running. So as a heartfelt “Thank You”we’ve come up with some exceedingly tempting offers for East African residents.

Tripadvisor traveller’s choice 2012 winner

OPENINGMARCH 2013

Air Uganda fly to Mombasa 5 times a week from Entebbe

This New Year also means boundless new opportunities and, as such, the Airline has launched a new and exciting product called Crane Class onboard our CRJ200 aircraft. Crane class is an experience that we offer discerning customers who wish to travel in comfort and in style. The goal is to provide a memorable experience and to ease travel for the Crane Class passenger at all touch points. I urge you to try out this new product.

As we reposition, we want to be the Airline that offers a great customer experience and good quality service. We are determined to keep our customers satisfied, comfortable and happy.

Whether you are a first time traveller or a frequent flier with Air Uganda, I hope you enjoy your flight with us today and continue to enjoy flying with us in 2013.

I welcome you to read and enjoy this complementary in-flight issue of Asante with lots to offer in news, health and inspiration. I hope our new look and stories inspire you to read on.

Mr. Mahmood ManjiChairman

I would like to extend a warm welcome aboard this Air Uganda flight today as we celebrate the exciting start of a new year. 2013 is certainly off to a fresh and exciting start

for Air Uganda, as we celebrate the successful completion of the IOSA (IATA operational safety audit).

Air Uganda is now registered as an IOSA operator which makes the Airline Uganda’s first ever commercial operator to attain this registration in this country. The accreditation is a major milestone in Air Uganda’s short history of operations and is confirmation that the investors remain fully committed to the company’s development and success.

The internationally recognized and accepted evaluation system, developed by IATA, aims at standardizing and promoting air safety practices and efficiencies in the Airlines operations. In other words, the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) audit is designed to assess the operational management and control systems of an airline.

For an airline to meet IOSA requirements it must comply with, and verify the ability to deliver, efficiency and safety standards in the eight areas of corporate organization and management systems, flight operations, operational control and flight dispatch, aircraft engineering and maintenance, cabin operations, aircraft ground handling, cargo operations and operational security. With Air Uganda achieving IOSA registration, the Airline is now positioned amongst the world’s leading airlines, demonstrating that it provides an operation that delivers operational safety and efficiency. The registration will also permit Air Uganda to enter codeshare arrangements and commercial agreements with senior airlines that are IOSA registered.

Our greatest challenge is to ensure that the airline retains its registration by continually maintaining these high standards. I am confident, however, that the team involved in this exercise will deliver a renewed certificate.

Any start of the year traditionally acts as a fresh start, so it’s an ideal opportunity to take a positive look at the year ahead. Not only are we excited about obtaining the IOSA registration but we have introduced and renamed our customer care project ‘Shukran’. Shukran has been put in place to streamline the quality of service offered at all customer touch points. Our Shukran ambassadors, in all departments, will ensure that clients are given assistance whenever they are in contact with Air Uganda. With our Shukran (customer care) help desk at Entebbe International Airport, manned during most of our flights, we look forward to offering you assistance whenever necessary.

a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3 | 1

Foreword – Chairman of Air Uganda

This ancient symbol of health and good fortune is fast becoming Africa’s new super fruit.

Pick up a Pomegranate!48

The inflight magazine of Air Uganda part of the

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A Vanishing

Way of Life

Night

Uganda’s Fashion Industry

Kampala by

Issue 13

Ugandans have started appreciating their own, and begun buying clothes made by local designers.

We celebrate the role and status of women in Africa that has grown considerably over the years.

There’s something for everyone to see and do in the old, fascinating, hectic and fast-growing city of Mombasa.

The sheer style, diversity and practicality of habitat puts the African continent in a class by itself.

Sometimes what we need is a dose of reality.

It has taken all of 40 years for East Africa to catch on to the talent-exporting trend.

Uganda’s Fashion Industry Almost of Age

International Women’s Day

Getting the Best from Mombasa

TechTalk

A Vanishing Way of Life

Where There are No shrinks

East African Region Making its Mark in Europe

Whatever day of the week you are in Kampala there is a party going on, somewhere.

African competitors have been a rarity in the top levels of cycle racing, now that is changing and Kenyan riders are leading the way.

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Tips on business e-mail etiquette.

You’ve Got E-mail5022

Kampala by Night Every Night

A Cycling Success Story in Kenya

Regulars

1. Editorial

4. Air Uganda News

6. Whats Up! East Africa

34. Bookshelf/Interview

43. Asante News

52. Meet the Staff

54. Basic Tips for the Traveller

55. Useful Travel Tips

56. Air Uganda Offices

57. Route Map

58. Abato Corner

59. Air Uganda Flight Schedule

60. Crossword Puzzle & Sudoku

Cover picture: Beautiful potrait of a Maasai bride.

“We’re seeing not only the broad adoption of technology, but also density is increasing.”

Phot

o ©

Cam

erap

ix

Camerapix Magazines Ltd

Rukhsana Haq

Roger Barnard

Cecilia W. Gaitho

Charles Kamau

Azra Chaudhry, U.K

Rose Judha

Rukhsana Haq

Jenifer B. Musiime

Jackie Tumuhairwe

Publishers:

Editorial Director:

Editor:

Editorial Assistant:

Creative Designer:

Production Manager:

Production Assistant:

Editorial Board:

ASANTE meaning ‘Thank you’ in Kiswahili is published quarterly for Air Uganda by Camerapix Magazines LimitedP.O. Box 45048, 00100 GPO Nairobi, KenyaTel: +254 (20) 4448923/4/5 | Fax: +254 (20) 4448818 | E-mail: creative@camerapix.co.ke

Editorial and Advertising Offices: Camerapix Magazines (UK) Limited | 32 Friars Walk, Southgate, London, N14 5LP Tel: +44 (20) 8361 2942 | Mobile: +44 79411 21458 E-mail: camerapixuk@btinternet.com

Air Uganda, Marketing Office | Tel: +256 (0) 414 258 262/4 or +256 (0) 417 717 401Fax: +256 414 500 932 | E-mail: info@air-uganda.com or jbmusiime@air-uganda.comInvestment House, Plot 4, Wampewo Avenue, KololoWebsite: www.air-uganda.com, www.facebook.com/airuganda@airuganda Correspondence on editorial and advertising matters may be sent to either of the above addresses.

©2013

CAMERAPIX MAGAZINES LTDAll rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced by any means without permission in writing from the publisher. All photographs by Camerapix unless otherwise indicated.

The views expressed in this magazine should only be ascribed to the authors concerned, and do not necessarily reflect the views either of the publishers or of Air Uganda. The printing of an advertisement in Asante does not necessarily mean that the publishers or Air Uganda endorse the company, product or service advertised.

Air Uganda IOSA Certified

In December 2012, Air Uganda attained the highest safety standard in the airline industry, the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) Certification. The IOSA is the benchmark for global safety management in airlines, designed

to assess the operational management and control systems of an airline.

Inaugural Uganda Air Show

Ugandans were treated to a great display at the first ever Air Show that was organised by UCCA in conjunction with other air operators to mark Uganda’s 50 years of independence.

Air Uganda was the biggest airline in the show, its MD 87 operating at least three flights per day at the 3-day event. All Ugandans were given a chance to fly, as tickets were sold at a very low fare of UGX 50,000. The crowds were treated to aerobatics, pass-bys, flights and aircraft tours. It was an exciting experience for all visitors, especially the children who had never seen an aircraft close-up in their lives.

The Air Show was so successful that the UCAA and Air Uganda have been asked to make this an annual event to give a chance to every citizen to enjoy this life-changing experience.

Air Uganda was glad to take part in the Inaugural national Air Show, with its aircraft, and providing such an experience to first-time fliers. We look forward to taking part in the Air Show next year!

Shukran Project Launched

Air Uganda has launched its Shukran project to champion customer service excellence throughout all of the Airline’s service ‘touch points’. The aim is to create a memorable and consistent experience for all our valued customers.

Shukran is championed by Shukran Ambassadors who have set up a customer service desk at Entebbe International Airport to assist Air Uganda’s customers at check-in. A customer survey is also now available on-board to collect feedback.

“Shukran ensures that every employee in Air Uganda has a part to play in delivering excellent customer care. It is not a specialist function owned by Commercial or Ground Operations,” Customer Care Manager, Njeri Wachira, said. “Our clients’ feedback will become integral in key business processes and service improvements,” she added.

Air Uganda Sponsors the Uganda National Basketball Teams

In January 2013, Air Uganda provided discounted tickets for both the Men’s and Ladies’ Uganda National basketball teams, and two free tickets for their coaches, to travel to Dar es Salaam to participate in the Basketball Regional Championship.

This sponsorship saved the teams from a long and tiring trip by road and the team was able to arrive in Dar es Salaam, fresh and ready for the tournament.

Technical Director, Roberto Manzi, receives a Shukran service badge from Njeri Wachira, Customer Care Manager in a recent ceremony held in Kololo, where all senior management were awarded badges. On receiving his badge, Mr. Manzi commented, “Customer service is not a department, it is everyone’s job from the Technical to Finance departments as we all have internal or external customers.”

Air Uganda Launches Crane Class

The airline has launched Crane Class ‘Premium Economy’, a product for the more sophisticated traveller.

This product is offered on all Air Uganda flights. The customers in this class pay a little more than the ordinary Economy Class passenger but receive extra benefits when they fly. They save time by using a special check-in counter, set aside specially for Crane Class passengers; they get an extra baggage allowance of 10 kilogrammes. The passenger has access to the airport lounge and, on board, has an extra seat, reserved for his/her own personal space.

Crane Class is sold at all Air Uganda offices and the benefits are accessible at all airports where the airline operates. We welcome you to try Crane Class; you will feel so special, and you won’t regret it!

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Air Uganda News

6 | a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3

UGANDA BIKE CHALLENGE 2013African Revival is organising yet another bike challenge -The Uganda Bike Challenge 2013. This time the challenge will take place in Uganda and will see the bike riders travel from Kampala to Gulu in Northern Uganda where they will visit one of the African Revival supported primary schools.

This challenge has become possible due to the improved security situation in Northern Uganda which has seen stability for the last six years. For further information or to reserve a place in the Uganda Bike Challenge 2013, contact Mandy Scott-Johnson at mandy@africanrevival.org or Alexander Macpherson at alex.macpherson@africanrevival.org WHERE: Kampala, Uganda

KENYA OPEN GOLF CHAMPIONSHIPThe 2013 Barclays Kenya Open Golf Championship moves from the traditional Muthaiga Golf Club to Karen Golf and Country Club. The four day tournament kicks off on February 13 with the Pro-Am, attracting approximately 150 players. The tournament will once again attract players from around the globe-with competitors expected from East Africa region, Africa and Europe, Americas and Asia. Expected to play this year is the cream of talent from the young professional ranks that are seeking to transit to the main tour or seeking re-entry.

This year’s prize money for the championship is 195,000 Euros, raised from many local corporate sponsors.WHERE: Karen Golf and Country Club in Nairobi, Kenya

SAUTI ZA BUSARA MUSIC FESTIVALSauti za Busara, ‘Sounds of Wisdom’, is one of East Africa’s best cultural events. This six-day festival showcases regional music, theatre and dance. It brings together people of all ages and backgrounds in celebration of the wealth and variety of Swahili culture. Performance spaces include old forts, amphitheatres and other historic buildings that makes Stonetown a unique destination. The music is paired with delicious skewered meats, lovely sunsets and lots of dancing.

WHERE: Stonetown and Kendwa Beach, ZanzibarWEBSITE: http://www.busaramusic.org

ROTARACT CLUB OF RUBAGA BEACH VOLLEYBALL ANNUAL EVENTThis is the annual fundraising event and the proceeds go to service projects in our community. 2013 is targeting a total of over 1,500 people and the proceeds shall be used to contribute onto buying an X-ray machine for Rubaga hospital.

WHERE: Sports Beach Entebbe, UgandaPRICE: Entrance is UGX.3,000Participants pay 50,000/- per team and the winner goes away with UGX 1,000,000.We hope to see you partner with us.

a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3 | 7

THE KAMPALA INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION FAIR 2013Welcome to the leading student’s recruitment exhibition in Uganda and East African region, bringing together local and international universities and colleges from around the world, every year in March.

WHERE: Conference Complex, Hotel Africana in UgandaWEBSITE: http://www.worldwideeducationgroup.com/

POWER AND ENERGY AFRICAPower And Energy Africa is an internationally acclaimed trade expo on energy and power related industries.

The trade fair attracts participation from sectors such as power transmission equipments, transitional and renewable energy and all others that contribute significantly to the power engineering and alternative energy sectors of the region.

WHERE: Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC), Nairobi, KenyaWEBSITES: http://www.expogr.com/kenyaenergy/

ULTIMATE RIVER - RAFT MURCHISON FALLS, UGANDAAn expedition into Africa’s wild heart. This is a river of epic proportions and rapids don’t come harder than this. Spectacularly remote, raw and untamed, the Murchison falls area is an untouched wilderness and you could join the first open access team to attempt this feat alongside the world’s best rafting professionals. Not for the faint hearted though ...

WEBSITE: www.secretcompass.com/ultimate-river-murchison-falls-uganda/

NAIROBI WINE FESTIVALThe annual Nairobi Wine Festival gives connoisseurs the opportunity to taste over 90 wines from around the world. Taking place at the Southern Sun Mayfair, visitors can enjoy live music and food around the hotel’s charming pool.

WHERE: Southern Sun Mayfair Hotel, Parklands in Nairobi, Kenya

KILIMANJARO MARATHONThe Kilimanjaro Marathon (42.2km), Half Marathon (21.1km) and Fun Run (5km) is going into its 11th year! As a fully registered IAAF race, the marathon has official marshalling, time-keeping and refreshment points at regular intervals. It may be used as a qualifier for Comrades. The race is run under the watchful eye of Mount Kilimanjaro, with the altitude gain being quite manageable and with the entire race being completed

between 830–1150m, on good tarred roads. Enthusiastic local crowd cheers support you along the route, and the social runners amongst you may even stop for a cold ‘Kili’ beer along the way!

WHERE: Moshi, TanzaniaWEBSITE: http://www.kilimanjaromarathon.com/

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entertainmentPh

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Kabu

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It is an old and tired cliché, the one about cities that never

sleep, for few cities literally shut down when darkness falls.

But it is safe to say that whatever day of the week you are in

Kampala there is a party going on, somewhere. While some

places have a party going on every single night, here is my pick

of the top venues, writes Jonathan Kabuye.

Kampala by Night

Every NightKampala by Night

Every Night

a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3 | 9

Monday

For a long time the Jam Session at the National Theatre

was the place to be on Monday evenings. Musicians

got together and had some fun of their own at the

Musicians’ Club on the second floor. But after wrangles

with management, and the influx of dancehall artists

performing to a CD playback, it lost its attraction. It

still happens though, and those inclined to dancehall

and young wannabe rappers dropping rhymes have a

place to go.

T1 Nightclub on 2nd Street, Industrial Area, is the only

discothèque open on Mondays, with its Campus night.

The Kampala Hash House Harriers get together to run

an average of 10 kilometres every Monday, and then

celebrate the run with a bash at a different venue every

week (which is indicated on their website). It is mostly

corporates, and a lot of networking goes on as well as

plenty of beer and dancing.

For those who want a relatively quiet Monday out on

the town, the Qwela Band performs a selection of

Afro-jazz at the Sheraton Hotel.

Tuesday

Enjoy breathtaking views of Kampala Hills to a mellow background of live

piano jazz at dinner time (Tuesdays to Sundays) at the 7 Hills Revolving

Restaurant, Golf Course Hotel.

Quite often it seems half of Kampala shows up for the Half Price Tuesday

movies at Garden City’s Cineplex cinema. Quite a popular outing, this one.

Harry Lwanga’s One-Man-Band (but backed up by former Tusker Project

Fame participant Sharon) plays easy music at Faze 2, Nakasero; while

the first of several comedy nights is on at Bugolobi’s Virgin Island Pub,

with comedian Dolibondo and Friends Steak Out in Nakasero used to

have the craziest Tuesdays in town, but it died down, and now it is just

another official Campus Nite.

But the real action on Tuesdays still remains at Silk Royale, the only

disco open that night, and local artists have made their unofficial Tuesday

hang out. So it gets quite busy, and often there will be a show of ‘beef’

between warring artists.

Jazz and R&B singer Angela Kalule performs with her band at the

Amnesia discothèque. Entry is free.

There is action

everywhere on Fridays,

and different

places have different

theme nights.

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Friday

There is action everywhere on Fridays, and different places

have different theme nights. But top of the pick is the Afrigo

Band at Obbligato, Bat Valley, and the Code 9 band at Jazzville,

Bugolobi. While Afrigo plays mainly Ugandan music laced with

rhumba, Code 9 will give you Afro-Jazz.

Saturday

Looks like everybody goes to a disco on Saturdays, although

the Afrigo Band will provide an alternative at Club Obbligato

Wednesday

Action really picks up on Wednesdays and revellers are

spoilt for choice on where to go. First there is the Bonfire

Hip Hop Nite at the National Theatre, where budding

rappers try out their styles.

Then comedy takes centre stage, first with The Crackers’

Mic Check Show at Theatre La Bonita, and then Comedy

Nite at Laftaz, Centenary Park.

There is a Reggae Night at Steak Out, and if you want

to hang out with Rastafarians and the kind of things

they do, this is the place to be. The faint-hearted could

try out the more sombre reggae night at Hooters, UMA

Show Grounds, Lugogo.

Club Pa Lui in Ntinda used to be a real attraction for

folks in the northern Kampala suburb, but now it is just

a big pub, although the crowds still come in, and it gets

really loud.

Kampala’s longest running Jazz Night is still on at On

the Rocks Bar, Speke Hotel, but most of the people

who turn up are not really into the jazz, but meet other

patrons who are regulars there.

Thursday

Club Silk rules most Thursdays, with its various theme nights

which rotate between Fashion Night, Comedy Nights, Crazy

Dancing, and the extremely popular Unplugged.

Karaoke at Alleygators in Garden City still happens, although

it has lost some of its shine, but the faithful still turn up, as

Sunday

Sunday is a very quiet night all over town. The clubs are closed

save for Ange Noir with Carnival Night.

The Soul Seduction at Bukoto’s Cayenne Lounge’s poolside

has picked up quite a following, and might be worthwhile to

wind down the week.

The 7 Hills Revolving Restaurant, Golf Course Hotel.

they also do on Fridays and Saturdays. There is also Ten Pin

Bowling at Alleygators, so you can combine both.

The original Campus Night was at Ange Noir many years

ago, and it still happens every Thursday, although now it has

competition from new-kid-on-the-block Amnesia.

Other attractions on Thursdays are the Temporary Madness

Comedy Show by Fun Factory at the National Theatre, and

Rock Nite at Steak Out, Lumumba Avenue.

Bebe Cool’s Gagamel Band plays at Daytona Bar in Ntinda,

the Zawuka Band is at the Sheraton Hotel, and the Acoustic

Night with Irene Ntale happens at Jazzville, Bugolobi.

Two quiz nights happen every Thursday, one at Bubbles

O’Leary’s in Kololo, and one at Shulaz Corner in Naguru.

a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3 | 1 1

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Has the fashion industry in Uganda finally come of

age? It just might have, if the number of fashion

shows held last year is any indication.

For a long time fashion shows in Kampala were mostly

entertainment events, with people more interested in the

models than the outfits being showcased. Slowly, but surely,

that seems to be changing. And it seems Ugandans have

started appreciating their own, and begun buying clothes

made by local designers, as opposed to foreign labels.

2012, was the year that Vogue Italia came to Uganda.

Editor-in-Chief Franca Sozzan held court in Kampala for a

week but the fruits of her efforts have yet to be seen.

For the last three years the monthly Silk Fashion Nite has

been giving young and upcoming designers a platform on

which to show what they have and attain some much-needed

publicity. It is held in a small venue, the lighting is not ideal,

but the press do show up regularly and that can only be a good

thing.

There were many fashion shows, led by Sylvia Owori’s One

Love Collection, held in March 2012. Relatively new designer

Brenda Nambi, under the label Bambi Fashions, had two

shows, but they were not helped by poor production, which

can be said of almost all the others.

The annual Bride & Groom Expo, though restricted to

wedding fashion, was the single biggest fashion event, with

seven fashion shows spread over three days. Stella Atal

showcased her designs at several events, with Xenson and

Brenda Maraka also featured prominently.

And the way forward? Fashion shows must be more

professionally produced, with special attention to the lighting

which can kill or make a show. But there is hope, so here’s to

a better 2013.

Almost of AgeText & photos by Jonathan Kabuye.

Brenda Maraka

Uganda’s Fashion Industry

fashion

a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3 | 1 3

Bride & Groom

Expo

Stella Atal

Xenson

Sylvia Owori’s

Collection

1 4 | a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3

There’s something for everyone to see and do, says Grace Mulenga.

MombasaGetting the Best from

destination

With a city as old, fascinating,hectic

and fast-growing as Mombasa,

getting the best from a short stay

will depend very much on the tastes

and curiosity of the visitor. For cultural enthusiasts

there’s no shortage of historical sites, from the

stately Old Town to atmospheric abandoned ruins

along the coast. Photographers will find themselves

snapping away at a wealth of architectural detail,

blue Indian Ocean vistas and vibrant colours in the

local markets. Sporty types and party animals might

head for the livelier beaches, following days on

the reef with nights in a casino, while those with a

family in tow might consider some ‘light education’

in a glass-bottomed boat, a cultural centre or even a

crocodile farm.

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o ©

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Toddler enjoys the beautiful sand and sea on Mombasa beach.

Diani Beach

a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3 | 1 5

of the house could watch without being seen, the

great brass-studded doors, secluded courtyards and

the original Coffee Shop where the day’s business

would be done. The Fort Jesus Museum makes an

interesting break, with some wonderful old maps

and photographs among the traditional Swahili

household fittings and furnishings.

For a quick overview of Kenya’s other major

ethnic groups, those on limited time can head for

Ngomongo Cultural Centre, about 10 kilometres

towards Shanzu. Here 11 villages have been

established to showcase various traditional ways of

life. The visit takes about four hours with authentic

food for lunch, accompanied by drumming and

dancing, and can be arranged through most big

hotels. Mombasa’s role as a cultural melting-pot

Cultural HighlightsMombasa’s Old Town, with its memories of pre-

colonial and colonial times, is East Africa’s largest

and best preserved example of a Swahili trading

port. It was built mainly of local coral limestone on

an island where a break in the long-stretches of reefs

allowed access to the hinterland. Thanks to a long-

running restoration project, it’s possible to imagine

white-robed merchants borne on the monsoon winds

arriving at the Old Dhow Harbour from Oman and

Yemen in search of ivory and slaves. Or maybe you’ll

glimpse the ghosts of tough Portuguese soldiers

who built the ramparts of Fort Jesus and manned its

canons, or linen-suited characters straight from ‘Out

of Africa’ ferried by local canoe from their liner to

the Levens Steps and gasping for a cool drink at the

fabled Mombasa Club.

The main road of the Old Town, Njia Kuu, runs

straight to the Club’s welcoming shade and is lined

with merchants’ houses that retain a strong Arab/

Swahili or Indian influence. Much photographed are

the balconies of the women’s quarters with their

delicate wood latticework shutters where the ladies

Kids of any age are impressed by the ‘largest elephant tusks in the world’, set up in an M-shaped arch over Moi Avenue.

Phot

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1 6 | a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3

can also be explored in mosques old and new. The

tiny Mandhry Mosque dates from 1570, while the

modern Ithna Asheri Mosque has wonderful views

across the creek to English Point from its shady

courtyard.

Where’s the Action?Many visitors head for the beaches – at least during

the day. Bamburi Beach is for those who enjoy a

lively scene with plenty of hassle and hustle. It’s

easily accessible from the main town across the

Nyali Bridge in the direction of Malindi or Mtwapa

Creek by taxi or matatu (mini-bus) services, and is

cleaned every day. Offshore is Mombasa Marine

National Park. The many tourist hotels in this

area, as well as those along the slightly more

sedate Nyali Beach, offer reef-going excursions for

snorkelling, scuba and fishing in designated areas,

and there is no shortage of ‘privateers’ offering

similar trips for the more adventurous. Both Nyali

and Bamburi have plenty of mall-style places to

eat, from traditional/fusion food to burgers, with

shopping for beachwear and safari gear.

Bike hiring has become a very popular way of getting

around, either in escorted groups or independently,

since so much of the Mombasa region is fairly flat. The

heavy traffic thins out on the coast roads north or south

of the town, where stunning ocean views glitter among

coconut groves and colourful tropical blossom. For

dedicated petrol-heads, there’s also a very popular Go-

Kart track with a large restaurant in Bamburi. It’s off the

Mombasa-Malindi Road and opens at 4pm until late –

closed Mondays. At night, the club scene is often linked

to hotels, perhaps with a casino attached.

Child-friendly MombasaToday’s parents don’t believe in leaving the kids behind

with granny while they explore Mombasa. But kids of

any age are impressed by the ‘largest elephant tusks in

the world’, set up in an M-shaped arch over Moi Avenue

to mark a royal visit in the 1950s. Thankfully, they are

made of aluminium, not ivory, and are to Mombasa

what the Eiffel Tower is to Paris.

There are the beaches, of course, but according to

TripAdvisor, Mombasa’s number-one attraction is Haller

Park, and not just for children. Reclaimed from a huge

Bamburi Beach

Phot

o ©

Robe

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For even the most

jaded teenager,

there’s always East

Africa’s largest

crocodile farm at Mamba Village,

Nyali.

a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3 | 1 7

derelict coral limestone quarry, the Park includes a

delightful butterfly farm and provides nature trails with

educational tours. For even the most jaded teenager,

there’s always East Africa’s largest crocodile farm at

Mamba Village, Nyali. Baby crocs can be handled by

visitors, as can some of the snakes, but the star of

the show is Big Daddy, who has absolutely no table

manners when it comes to his main feeding time at

5pm on Fridays.

Out of Town and Assorted other AttractionsAbout half an hour’s drive from Bamburi is Nguuni

Nature Sanctuary. Hint: if you’re looking for an exotic

place to get married or for a big family celebration,

the staff at Nguuni will make it happen in beautiful,

tranquil surroundings. For those willing to bus it along

the Malindi Road, the Gedi ruins near Watamu are

the remains of a once thriving Swahili trading centre,

and the word is to choose a regular guide if you want

to get the best experience. So far, Gedi seems free

of theme-parkery, so take plenty of water, walking

shoes and insect repellent.

For a very different kind of attraction, the

Bombolulu Workshops and Cultural Centre was set

up to help the city’s disabled people by encouraging

them to learn a craft or trade. It has been running

since 1969,and the results are heart-warming in

that visitors are welcome to wander round to admire

the workers’ skills and have a chat. There are eight

traditional houses to see, music, dances and lots

of export-quality gifts and souvenirs on sale, which

makes a trip here one of the nicest ways to support

this initiative as well as the local economy.

To see Mombasa from the water as the first arrivals

saw it, there are several companies offering a variety

of evening cruises round the main harbour area, with

locally sourced food and entertainment to set the

mood. Once a week, there is a special evening at the

Fort, with dinner and a Sound and Light Show – truly

a memorable way to round off a visit to one of East

Africa’s most multi-cultural cities.

Baby crocs at Mamba Village.

Entrace to Mamba Village.

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1 8 | a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3

Culture

The Maasai people of East Africa and most of their

cousins, such as the Samburu, are hereditary nomads

and thus masters of comfortable temporary living.

Long ago they learned how to use their natural surroundings

to create fast, sensible, housing that is both practical

and utilitarian, not to mention fitting in perfectly with the

surrounding environment.

Where western homes tend to be garish in order to proclaim

their individuality, African homes strive to become invisible,

a practical solution in ancient days when intertribal warfare

raged in the land, not to mention living in the midst of

large carnivores. In western cities where skyscrapers rise

like transformers out of the flat plains, African communities

blend in to the point of being indistinguishable from the

surrounding lands.

Phot

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Jam

es D

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Karamoja of Uganda manyatta.

A VanishingWay of LifeTraditional African dwellings should be praised for their practicality and use of locally available materials, says James Dorsey.

a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3 | 1 9

in turn has given the entire world a model to copy

when it comes to both architectural style and utility,

not to mention having a minimum impact on the

environment.

This type of housing of course, was the only alternative

to early man who chose to cease living in caves, but

over the millennia, while societies across the planet

progressed, and technical advances changed the

building materials and advanced the possibilities of

housing comforts, it was the people of Africa more

than any other place that chose to live the old way.

While much of this topic was simply a matter of

economics in which the people just could not afford

more advanced housing, for many people it was an

adherence to tradition, and respect for the ways of their

ancestors, where in Africa respect for ancient cultures

is still paramount. This involves ritual, dance, oral

When it comes to using natural resources to improve one’s standard of living, Africa stands alone. The sheer style, diversity and practicality of habitat puts the African continent in a class by itself.

Maasai manyatta hut made of cow dung.

Woven thatch home.

It was this image of village life, of people in mud

huts with thatched roofs that first drew me to Africa;

an image perpetuated by western television that

fascinated me by the various innovative ways other

people chose to live their lives.

It is difficult to speak in generalities, but when it comes

to using natural resources to improve one’s standard of

living, Africa stands alone. The sheer style, diversity,

and practicality of habitat puts the African continent

in a class by itself, and this is only speaking about

housing constructed from natural materials.

To address the issue of generality, of course, many

Africans live in large modern homes with all the

technical conveniences this entails, but overall the

majority of people live quite comfortably in homes

made from organic materials; some out of economic

necessity, and others by personal preference. Either

way this mode of life needs to be not just considered,

but also studied and appreciated.

The only other major land mass about which such

a statement could be made would possibly be the

Arctic where the Inuit and Inupiaq people of the far

north who used to make homes of snow and ice, now

mostly live in prefabricated housing provided by their

governments, only using snow caves and igloos when

they go out to hunt for prolonged periods.

The people of Africa have made a high art form of

living in harmony with their surroundings, and this

2 0 | a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3

This is the image the world has of Africa. It is the face of its heritage that visitors wish to see before the advance of modern society replaces it.

Shelter made out of dried grass.

Mud mosque in, Djenne, Mali.

where erecting a structure not only takes weeks or months but is also an

invasion of the natural surroundings whatever they may be, not to mention

an entire infrastructure needed to support the construction project.

In West Africa I have stayed at a village that was one complete structure

of more than 100 rooms, all made from sun dried clay, complete with

the floors, remarkably similar to that of the Anasazi of the American

southwest. In the great cities of Timbuktu and Djenne in Mali, not only

are the giant mosques and universities made of mud, but so are the entire

cities. I have visited villages whose homes were made entirely from tree

branches and others that were made from palm fronds, and found that

most of these could be lifted intact and relocated to another area with

no damage to the structure, and leaving no trace that they ever existed

on their original spot.

history, costume, and religious belief, but architecture

as well.

The indigenous architecture I am referring to usually

involves an interior support system of wood, primarily

tree branches that form the basic shape of the structure

over which as a general rule a mixture that can include

local clay, mud, animal dung, and dry grass is spread,

and dries in a matter of hours. Thatch, which is simply

plants or dry stalks, are usually woven together to make

a weather tight roof. This is often quite a piece of art

as master weavers have integrated designs into their

work. This is also the type of housing created by the

Maasai.

The average African living on the savannah can look

around and find materials to construct a comfortable

dwelling in hours, and complete it in a couple of days.

In the so called ‘modern’ world, this is an impossible feat

a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3 | 2 1

I have stayed among nomads who made shelters out of nothing

more than dried grass that were quite usable for weeks at a time,

and been in remote deserts where tents were sewn together using

camel hides stretched over a wooden frame. I have spent nights

in huts made entirely from strips of bark peeled from trees and

even stayed at the base of a volcano where the houses were made

from petrified magma with grass roofs.

This combination of organic materials has proven over the centuries

to be more than just practical, but a necessity to shelter families in

areas where, due to lack of infrastructure, they would otherwise

be at the mercy of the elements.

These homes are warm in the winter;

cool in the summer, easily and quickly

constructed, and for nomadic cultures,

when the time comes to move on, they

are simply abandoned, to return to the

earth that provided them, eventually

leaving no footprint on the earth. This

cannot be said of modern high rises

or the modernistic architecture of the

western world.

To those travellers who look at a family

living in a mud hut and think them poor,

I say you do not understand. These

people are true environmentalists who

exist in harmony with their surroundings

Clay city of Tagasango, Burkina Faso.

and would not trade their traditional homes for a ‘modern’ one

for any price. This westerner who was born into a world of

mortgages, insurance, security systems, utility bills, support teams

of gardeners, housekeepers and maintenance workers, often turn

my thoughts towards Africa and think, “What if?”

Africa has always remained true to its origins and traditions and

more than anywhere else, this has been manifested in the homes

of its people. This is the image the world has of Africa. It is the

face of its heritage that visitors wish to see before the advance

of modern society replaces it forever. •

sports

Making its Mark in EuropeMaking its Mark in Europe

East AfricanEast African

by Joseph Kabuleta.

Phot

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Get

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port

s Im

ages

a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3 | 2 3

What could have been a truly grim year for Ugandan football fans

ended on a bit of a high with the national team winning the

CECAFA Challenge Cup at home in December 2012. So great has

been Cranes dominance in the regional tournament that it only

seems to make news when Uganda doesn’t win.

The continued regional success, however, has been accepted by football fans as

something of a palliative that eases the biennial pain of Cranes continued failure

to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations. And yet, as the recent CECAFA victory

suggested, regional triumphs have lost their appeal, even as painkillers, and might

even have something of a reverse effect.

Uganda opened the tournament with a routine victory over Kenya; routine both in

its predictability and in its execution. The two nations met again in the final and,

in spite of the added drama and tension, the outcome was the same. Uganda has

won the tournament a record 13 times; Kenya being their nearest challengers (if

you could call them that) with five trophies.

And even if victory over its neighbours is something of an annual standing order for

Uganda, the one time it really mattered, in September of 2011, the Cranes botched

it and failed yet again to qualify for the big stage that is the Africa Cup of Nations.

Needing a simple victory over Kenya to top their group and book a ticket to Gabon and

Equatorial Guinea 2012, Uganda could only play out a heart-rending goalless draw.

In the run-up to that game, Cranes had registered five straight victories over Kenya

at different levels and since that game, Uganda has now recorded three straight

wins over the Harambee Stars. Cranes’ continued victories over regional rivals in

the CECAFA tournament and failure to beat the same opponents when the stakes

are higher has left football fans in a spin. And while Uganda continues to rake

up impressive stats in the relative oblivion that is CECAFA, Kenya, Rwanda,

Sudan and Ethiopia, have all had the distinction of having represented the

region at the Nations Cup in the past 12 years.

Indeed Ethiopia --- beaten twice by Cranes at the recent CECAFA tournament ----

was the only nation from this region that qualified for South Africa 2013, while

Uganda hasn’t graced the tournament since 1978.

When he visited Uganda in 2004, Confederation of African Football (CAF)

president Issa Hayatou was tasked to explain the continued dominance of West

and North African nations at the expense of their CECAFA counterparts, who are

often excluded altogether. But the Cameroonian had little sympathy for the East

and Central region.

“Football is not politics,” he said curtly, “and the Africa Cup of Nations is not a

parliament in which every region has to be equally represented.”

Uganda versus Ethiopia during CECAFA Tournament in Uganda, November 2012.

Phot

os ©

Jos

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Kabu

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2 4 | a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3

Europe-based StarsHayatou also noted that the East African region similarly lags

behind in exporting talent to the big European leagues; that

being something of an understatement. The conveyer belt that

transports football talent from West Africa to Europe was built

as early as 1967. That was when a French diplomat spotted a

teenage forward called Salif Keita scoring for fun on the dusty

pitches of Bamako.

Without much thought the Frenchman recommended him to

St Etienne, arguably the biggest club in France at the time.

Keita landed in Paris unescorted, jumped into a cab and told

the driver that he was going to St Etienne. “But that is 500

kilometres from here,” the driver protested. “That’s fine,”

Keita naively replied. “The club will pay.”

They did, and the striker rewarded their faith with 135

goals in 167 matches, helping Les Verts to three league

titles and two French Cups. Legendary St Etienne manager

Albert Batteux said that he could “do absolutely anything,

just like the top Brazilian players can. I’ve seen him try things

that were ‘supernatural.’ The love affair between Keita and

St Etienne was such that in 1968, the club adopted a black

panther as their emblem to honour their star striker, a figure

which has been kept on their badge to this day.

It has taken all of 40 years for East Africa to catch on to the talent-exporting trend.

Phot

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Wik

imed

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Wik

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And so French clubs descended on the continent to look for the

next Keita, and a romance was born between Europe and West

Africa, one that has budded through the years.

It has taken all of 40 years for East Africa to catch on to the

talent-exporting trend but finally the region, particularly Kenya,

is registering steady progress in that regard.

Uganda’s FirstBurly Uganda striker Majid Musisi became the first East African

to play in a top European league when he signed for Stade

Rennes in 1992. At the time he joined them, Rennes were in

the French second division but Musisi’s 13 goals helped them

to promotion.

The legendary SC Villa forward carried on playing for the

promoted Rennes for just one season before he was sold to

Bursaspor in the Turkish top-flight in 1994. It was in Turkey

that the Ugandan played his best football, once being voted

Foreign Player of The Year. In 1998, Musisi was sold to

Dardanelspor, still in the Turkish top division, where he played

for two years.

His relative success in Europe did not result in a stream of

Ugandans heading in that direction. In fact, the country has

Salif Keita, Mali, St. Etieme 1968.

Ugandan Majid Musisi in Stade Rennais, France in 1992.

Macdonald Mariga of Kenya, plays for Inter Milan, Italy.

never had any other footballer play in the famous top five

leagues in Europe.

Midfielder David Obua managed three seasons at Heart of

Midlothian in the Scottish Premier league but his contract was

not renewed after it expired in July 2012. Defender Ibrahim

Sekagya is also in the evening of his career but is still highly

valued at Red Bull Salzburg in the Austrian league. There

have been a host of other Ugandan professionals in the past

five years littered across the smaller European leagues from

Sweden to Serbia and as far out as Iceland. But almost all of

them are either on their last legs or have retired. At a time when

Ugandans are fading into the mist in their European careers,

Kenyans have stepped up to the plate.

Oliech Opens the WayIn 2005, 20 year-old Kenyan Dennis Oliech signed

a four-year contract with French club Nantes. Even

though his progress in the French Ligue 1 was far from

spectacular, Oliech kicked up a trend that has seen Kenyan

footballers make their mark in Europe.

Dennis Oliech, Auxerre FC, France.

It’s difficult to say with any degree of certainty what

trajectory the fledgling career of Macdonald Mariga could

have taken if he had joined Manchester City from Parma

in 2010, as indeed he should have but for work permit

issues. The then 22 year-old did eventually get the permit

but the transfer window had closed and when it reopened,

City had predictably moved on.

The failure of that move saw him return to Inter Milan, then

to Real Sociedad in Spain, and back to Italy with Parma.

Still the gangly midfielder stands out for being part of the

Inter Milan team that won a treble of trophies including the

European Champions League under Jose Mourinho in 2010.

And while Mariga’s younger brother Victor Wanyama might

not have a Champions League medal around his neck

any time soon, the 21 year-old Celtic midfielder was the

main cog in a resilient Celtic team that conquered three-

time European Champions Barcelona at Parkhead on

November 7th. The Kenyan capped his stellar

performance with a headed goal that put

world football’s most glamorous team

on the back foot. That performance

introduced Wanyama to the wider

2 6 | a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3

world and he has since been linked to another

three-time European champion in Manchester

United. Overall, Wanyama, who was signed for

£900,000 in July 2011, has scored 11 goals in

73 appearances for Celtic, a decent tally for the

combative midfielder that he is. Celtic manager

Neil Lennon told The Guardian newspaper that the

gangly Kenyan, who played his youth football in

Sweden, is now valued at £25m.

Lennon has already described Wanyama as ‘world

class’, the Celtic manager adding: “He’s

a player who has progressed in physical

presence and his technical ability on the

ball is excellent. I think he is a wonderful

talent and he can only get better.”

Bigirimana MiracleThe Ugandan football public is laying an emotional

claim on Newcastle midfielder Gael Bigirimana. The

19 year-old was born in Burundi in 1993 but says

he played his first competitive football in Uganda

where his family had moved. The Ugandan public

remembers him as the buoyant kid who played with

children five years older than himself on the dusty

Right: Bigirimana from Burundi plays for Newcastle United, United Kingdom, English Premier League.

pitches in the outskirts of Kampala. But in 2004,

he moved with the rest of his family to England.

On his way to the supermarket the teenager

spotted Coventry City’s training ground and

the next day asked for a trial. “They asked if I had all the

equipment, boots, shin pads and stuff like that,” Bigirimana

told BBC Sport. “I said ‘yes’ but I did not. The next day they

gave me a trial. It was near the end of the season but they

took me on for the following campaign. It must have been a

miracle.”

In the summer of 2011 he signed his first professional

deal with Coventry and made his debut in August 2011,

against Leicester City. He was named the npower

Championship’s Apprentice of the Year. In August

2012 he signed for Newcastle for a fee that

wasn’t officially disclosed but was believed to

be around £1million.

Bigirimana’s story is inspiring in the way talent and

fate combined to propel him to such heights, but it also tells a

more sobering tale. It demonstrates how the East African region

is yet to develop a clear scouting network to tap talents like his.

If his family hadn’t moved to England, the gifted

midfielder would probably be plying his trade in

the Ugandan league, at best.

Victor Mugabe Wanyama playing for Celtic F.C, Scottish League.

cyclingPh

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Pat

ricia

Sco

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a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3 | 2 9

Success Story in Kenya

A Cycling African competitors have been a rarity in the top levels of cycle racing, but that is changing and Kenyan riders are leading the way, says Patricia Scott.

When i was younger,

it was my livelihood,

then my freedom and

pleasure. Now it is my future.

ohn Njoroge was born in 1984 in a village 50 kms (kilometres) from Nyahururu. It was a

nondescript African hamlet, seemingly isolated from both hope and calamity. He left school

when he was still a child, vaguely aware that it had a connection to his family’s poverty and

some long forgotten tribal clashes that left schools in the area vacant. At some point in his

young life, he was no longer a child and there was a need to work. He would wake up at 5

in the morning and cycle to the neighbouring farms, filling a milk container till it reached its

50-litre capacity, before heading off to the market.

In his village, Njoroge became somewhat of an oddity, because unlike almost everyone who owned a

bicycle, he pedalled not only out of necessity, but for pleasure. After the market run, and unencumbered

by the weight of the swishing liquid, he would take the longer and hillier road home, always trying to

go faster than he did the previous week. People ridiculed him. “What sense does it make for a man

to ride in one direction, only to come back, with nothing, and for nothing?” At night, he would let

those distractions drift away, to be replaced by images, romantic images, of a world of bicycle races

and crowds, of hard men and the fierce European sun in summer. And always, he would be there,

straining against his own weight up a mountain, climbing away from the peloton.

As you might expect of a man who left school early, John Njoroge speaks English haltingly. ‘Always,

in my mind is the bicycle. When I was younger, it was my livelihood, then my freedom and pleasure.

Now it is my future.’ Looking at him now, with his short and powerful physique, one can see the feral

boy who had to hold his own among men. Where he comes from, it seems that anyone who looks

like him can almost be counted on to be a world-class runner; the rural areas surrounding Nyahururu,

a town situated 2,200 metres above sea level, supply, together with Eldoret, more than half the

marathon winners in the world.

Half a world away in Singapore, Nicholas Leong, a commercial photographer and a cycling

enthusiast, wondered if all that endurance talent in those isolated spots could be turned to

cycling. He had watched the Tour de France since childhood, and had seen black players

becoming ever more common at the highest levels in other sports. ‘ I just expected it would

happen in cycling, and soon, I was in my late 30s, and it still hadn’t happened.’ So he wrote to a

dozen teams, telling them to go there to seek out talent. One replied, and it was a ‘sympathetic

no’. So Leong decided to test his hunch out for himself.

Opposite: Motorpacing in France. John Njoroge is centre, in yellow.

3 0 | a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3

minutes 10 seconds. Publicity about the feat helped

to secure investment from a French hedge fund

manager, enabling Leong to set up the Kenyan Riders

project and open a full-time training camp in Iten,

modelled along the lines of numerous high-altitude

running camps in the area.

Everything since has taken longer than anyone initially

expected. Until Kenyan Riders was established,

cycling in Kenya clustered around the Nairobi area,

where mzungus would ride fancy bikes and perhaps

sponsor the odd African, and the national federation

would equip the best cyclists with good race bikes

and send them abroad for competitions.

Leong’s recruitment process included the obligatory

bicycle races, but also adventures into unlikely areas

like Turkana-land and treks into forests to look for

illegal woodcutters who would ferry their contraband

on bicycles along under-used pathways. And on these

journeys, Leong would hear of the mad milkman who

rode more than he needed to.

The other men he found were just as hard. Until 70

years ago - the span of an old man’s life - the pastoral

tribes in the area lived in forests, hunting game and

herding cattle. They feuded with the Maasai, running

hundreds of kilometres to the Maasai Mara and

further afield, on cattle raids. With modernisation

and a seven-fold increase in population, those tribes

turned to farming, but what remained was the

magnificent physiology that generations of cattle

raids had produced.

It seemed to Leong that the way to approach the cycling

project was to build on what he found, and not impose

European training methods on them. ‘All around me are

the finest endurance specimens on earth. They have

He waited for the Singapore Marathon, and bought a

flight to Nairobi on the night after the run, gambling

rightly that all the Kenyan athletes would be on it. He

approached them at the airport and said, “Wherever

you’re going, I’m going with you.”

Leong went with a plan. Without any evidence, he

just knew that an excellent climbing specialist lived

among the marathoners, he was sure he would find

him. Then he would give him a bike and take him to

the most famous climb in the Tour de France, Alpe

d’Huez. A few years earlier, Lance Armstrong had

ridden up the mountain in 37 minutes 36 seconds.

That simple plan took two years. In August 2008,

his first sponsored rider rode up Alpe d’Huez in 42

Below: A rare sight in Europe. African cyclists at the foot of the Pyrenees.

a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3 | 3 1

been hardened by the cattle raids and the African sun,

and they got here without me. It seems to me that our

job is to apprehend the rhythms of African life - the

languorous lulls when the sun is hottest, the intense

labour-and identify and enhance the most important

elements of this life. The evolutionary model that has

got them here is indifferent and unfailing, and we ignore

it to our detriment.’

That would prove tricky. The bicycle is an invention of

the industrial revolution. A person plants himself on a

seat, leans forward and turns his legs in circles, a motion

that has no practical application in nature. ‘It’s almost

mythical. Off the shamba, we get guys who can climb

mountains very quickly. But they need to harmonise

with this piece of technology, and innovative methods -

African methods - need to be developed here.’ The staff

on board is eclectic. ‘Our two coaches on the ground

are Australians who come from a running and outdoor

adventure background. We have an Irish exercise coach

as well. It’s a good mix, and we’re making progress.’

The first major test for the team took place in July of

2011. Kenyan Riders went to France for the Etape du

Tour. It was an amateur race that replicated the most

iconic climbing stage of that year’s Tour de France.

There were 10,000 participants, and one-tenth of

them were credible amateurs who took the race very

seriously.

The race started with two massive climbs, and the

Kenyans immediately took the lead. Up the second

climb, the Kenyan cyclists rode with such relentless

force and determination, the group of the first

thousand riders had whittled to about 30. Ultimately,

their inexperience showed. They had not paced

themselves with sufficient precision, and Njoroge

finished first among the Kenyans, in 13th place.

In 2012, they returned to Europe. This time for

redemption - and Haute Route, which bills itself as

‘the toughest and highest’ amateur race in the world.

In seven days of racing, cyclists would climb the

equivalent of Mt. Everest 2 ½ times. There would be

no mistakes. John Njoroge, the feral little milkman,

was in the mix from the start, finishing on the podium

on every stage. And Kenyan Riders finished 2nd out

of more than 70 teams. If not an outright victory, it

showcased their potential to the world.

That potential is rooted in the cyclists themselves.

Every one of them has a story to tell, of herding

cows for $12 a month or hauling 95-kilogramme

bags of maize up hills. It is a life of depredation, but

And Kenyan riders finished second out of more than 70 teams. If not an outright victory, it showcased their potential to the world.

3 2 | a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3

with it comes a fearlessness, because

whatever life brings must simply

be borne, and in this perverse way,

the suffering on a bicycle is almost a

relief.

For John Njoroge, a deeply religious

man, all things are God’s will. Fatalism

in Africa is an indispensable quality for

enduring hardship. He has assimilated

a simple personal truth: that in life is

a discernible order, a temporal and

divine one, an unspoken but well-

understood system of fate, suffering,

sacrifice, victory and disappointment.

As a young man, he ventured into the

world believing that things are as they

seem; that a man’s story begins when

he is born and his relations with others

begin when he meets them. And in that

simplicity, one sees life in the round.

‘There’s no reason to do this other than

to race professionally at the highest

levels one day. Kenyans know how to

win, and they know how to suffer. I

have complete faith in the project and

everyone in it, from the cyclists to the

staff to the investor. And in myself. It

really is a matter of time.’

cyclINg Since its inception, cycling and doping have been joined at the hip by the almost impossible feats that hard men were expected to endure on the bicycle and the desperate need of ordinary men to believe in that impossibility.

And so, over the decades, the dance of deception has evolved. On the one side, the fans, lavish with their adoration, laying flowers along the roads where their heroes rode, but also with the potential for unblinking venom at the first hint of betrayal.

Then too the strange sub-culture of the cyclists, with their mild disdain for the fans, their fierce and unstinting loyalty to each other, their own particular argot: a sub-culture that policed itself with its own code of honour, its omerta – the Mafia code of silence – and brooked no dissent.

The suffering on a bicycle is made to seem romantic when spun through the loom of a starry-eyed fan. And hardship, that great leveller, was the glue that brought fan and cyclists together.

In recent years, the façade has been crumbling. After many false starts, cycling might actually be cleaning itself up. In all of this is a golden opportunity for African cyclists.

There are almost no doping scandals attached to African distance running. cyclists come into the sport as outsiders to that strange cycling sub-culture. And at least in Kenya, as insiders of another culture, a winning culture of their distance running contemporaries, one that places at its bedrock honesty, hard work, fair play, self-belief…. values that seem to belong to another almost more innocent time.

The men in Africa on bicycles are pioneers on a great sporting and human adventure.

Above: Kenyan Riders at the summit of Col d’Aspin.

3 4 | a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3

Which is your favourite destination in East Africa? I do love visiting the East African coast especially Mombasa.

Do you travel regularly to this destination? Yes I do, an average of six times a year.

What are the main reasons for your visit - tourism or business? Although I am exploring the option of doing business in Mombasa, my main reason for visiting is family and friends.

Does this destination fulfill your business/leisure needs? It definitely addresses my leisure needs. I see and enjoy something new at every visit.

What are the main attractions of this destination?

Elizabeth Ntege

interview

Elizabeth Ntege is Director - Outsourcing of NFT Consult Ltd, Uganda and a frequent flyer on Air Uganda. Asante asked her about her lifestyle and why she flies on Air Uganda.

There is a direct flight from Entebbe to Mombasa on Air Uganda which makes travelling there hassle free. The weather is great so if you are into water sports this is a great destination, and the variety of food and entertainment is first class.

Mombasa has a mature tourism industry so you don’t even have to leave your hotel as the variety of entertainment at most hotels by the beach will fill your day, but I would encourage anyone visiting to explore the variety they have to offer outside your hotel for experiences like shopping and eating down town (very cost effective), dinner and entertainment on a dhow and the variety of experiences on both the North and South Coast. How do you rate Air Uganda’s service to this destination? Good, but there is room for improvement.

Are Air Uganda’s schedules convenient? Generally the schedule is convenient but unfortunately at present they don’t fly to Mombasa on Mondays which, for someone looking for a short break over the weekend or wishing to travel for business at the beginning of the week, is a bit inconvenient. I hope the airline will be able to address this in the future when they have the facilities to do so.

New in paperback. The fictionalisation

of Africa and African issues in the

media and the popular literature that

blends facts and fiction has rendered

perceptions of Africa, its cultures,

societies, customs, and conflicts often

superficial and deficient in the popular

Western consciousness. This collection

brings eminent scholars from a variety of

disciplines to sift through the persistent

fictionalisation of Africa, from facts

pertaining to the genesis of powerful

cultural, political or religious icons, the

historical and cultural significance of

intriguing customs (such as tribal marks),

gender relations, causes of conflicts

and African responses, and creative

imaginations in contemporary African

films, fiction and literature, among others.

Facts, Fictions and African Creative Imaginationsby Falola, Toyin & Ngom, Fallou

348pp, Paperback GBP26.00ISBN: 978-0-415-64773-1

bookshelf

Furthering Women’s Rightsby Asante

International Women’s Day

Every year on 8th March International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated worldwide. Thousands of events occur on this day, and in some cases throughout March, to mark the economic, political and social achievements of women. Organisations, governments, charities, educational institutions, women’s groups, corporations and the media celebrate the day.

For 2013 the chosen international theme is

‘The Gender Agenda: Gaining Momentum.’

This recognises that over the years, across

different regions, real progress has been

achieved in women’s rights. The event

celebrates the achievements of women while

recognising that further sustainable change

is needed to maintain global momentum for

women’s equality.

In 2012, International Women’s Day was

celebrated in Kampala under the theme:

‘Connecting Girls, Inspiring Futures’ at the

Sheraton Garden and Lions Bar in partnership

with the Alliance Française Kampala.

inspiration

a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3 | 3 7

Julia Sebutinde is a Ugandan currently

serving as a judge on the International

Court of Justice, The Hague, Netherlands

- the first African woman to sit on the

World Court. Prior to being elected to the

ICJ, Sebutinde was a judge of the Special

Court for Sierra Leone.

During the Female Lawyers’ Dinner in

October 2012, Justice Sebutinde shared

some of the lessons that she had learnt

on her life’s journey. These were:

Be visionary: Have a clear vision of

what you want to do with your life.

Be resourceful: Make the most of the

opportunities and resources that life has

given you.

Be daring: Life is about taking risks,

and having the faith and courage to follow

your dreams through. Don’t be afraid to

take risks.

For one to grow in one’s career, you must periodically take stock of your achievements, failures, short-comings etc with a view to identifying those areas that need improvement.

Be tenacious: You need not be an

intellectual genius to succeed in this

life. You simply need to work hard

and to diligently pursue your dream

with unwavering courage, fortitude,

steadfastness and tenacity.

Be ambitious: In everything you do

strive for excellence.

Be discerning: It is important in life to

focus on those things that matter most.

For example, in a job, money is not

everything. There are other considerations

such as job-satisfaction, opportunities for

scholarships, exposure and experience.

Be resilient: In life, you may meet

situations where you suffer racial,

gender, tribal, religious or other kinds

of prejudices. Through sheer resilience,

you can face up to such challenges and

instead of wallowing in self pity turn

those mill-stones into stepping stones

to success.

Be humble: Humility means learning to

keep your success in perspective.

Self-critique: For one to grow in one’s

career, you must periodically take stock

of your achievements, failures, short-

comings etc. with a view to identifying

those areas that need improvement.

Worship: Honour God and honour your

profession by serving your fellow man

faithfully.

(source: www.ug.nationmedia.com)

Ca ro l e Wa i na i na ha i l s

from the Nairobi and is

Executive Vice President for

the Dutch company, Royal

Philips Electronics. She is

currently based in London

and is responsible for Human

Resources in Europe. Having

started her career at Price

Waterhouse in Kenya in 1989

as a consultant, Carole joined

the Coca-Cola Company in 1998

and worked for that company in

Africa, Eurasia, Europe and the

United States. She was Chief

of Staff and Executive Assistant

to Coca-Cola’s former Chairman

and CEO in Atlanta between

June 2007 and December 2008

before joining Philips.

Chief Executive Officer, Frans

van Houten, said. “Carole

brought the experience of a long

career in different continents

and strong qualities in change

management and leadership

development to Philips.”

Julia Sebutinde

In Africa the role and status of women in society has grown considerably over the years. Women hold important roles in parliament, the legal system and other positions of authority. Asante highlights just a few examples here:

Carole Wainaina

In 1999, a group of women entrepreneurs from

all across Tanzania voiced their idea of having

a ‘Women’s Bank’ to the then President of the

United Republic of Tanzania, Hon. Benjamin

William Mkapa. These wishes were granted by

the government, who partnered with the Ministry

of Community Development, Gender and Children

(MCDGC), the Ministry of Finance and the Bank of

Tanzania (BOT) to facilitate the establishment of

the ‘Women’s Bank’.

After eight years, in 2007, the Tanzania Women’s

Bank (TWB) was at last created, incorporated and

registered as a limited liability company with a

shareholding structure comprising of 97 percent

Government and 3 percent private individuals and

entities.

TWB officially opened its doors to the public on

the 28th July 2009. The Bank’s aim is to empower

women economically and socially. TWB strives to

provide high quality services all across the board;

thus the Bank’s recognises and appreciates the

presence of low income earners, small businesses,

the corporate clientele base, and Small and Medium

Enterprises (SMEs).

Clare Akamanzi is the Chief Operating Officer of

Rwanda Development Board.

She was born into a family of six, the fourth child

but the first girl. In primary school she did well in

all the subjects and was the best in her class. In

secondary she liked English and maths, did well

in chemistry. She also loved literature, economics

and commerce.

“As a teenager you worry about short-term, small

things like ‘what are they going to think about me?’”

she says. “When you grow older you realise there are

bigger things like developing a character, building

relationships with other people, discipline, good

health and investing the best you can of yourself in

what you decide to do.” She says she always wanted

to be a leader in society, working for people, and

was a prefect in every school she attended.

She went on to study law. In Makerere University

she was the speaker of Mary Stuart Hall and the

Guild Minister of Academic Affairs in 2002.

Her first degree was in law but she followed this

with a Master’s in Trade and Investment Policy and

her passion since then has been business promotion.

“I enjoy the dynamics of how investment transforms

the nation but the law I studied also applies to

almost everything I do in life and how I deal with

it,” she says.

Clare Akamanzi

Tanzania Women’s Bank Ltd

Today, as Chief Operating Officer of Rwanda Development Board the first thing she does is check news online with a quick catch-up from Twitter alerts. Then she checks what lies ahead, and catches up with the team. Half her day is spent in meetings with investors and team members. She then attends to her paper work that needs analytical time.

Before she leaves office she writes out a ‘to-do’ list for the next day and before bed she checks the news again.

Clare is proud to be a member of the team that has worked on improving Rwanda’s investment climate and investment values. She looks forward to seeing RDB continue to grow and become a big catalyst for rapid economic growth for the country. “It gives us all national pride,” she says.

“I want to be remembered as somebody who has contributed to Rwanda’s vision and gave it my 100 percent, and who has also groomed other Rwandans,

especially younger ones, to be part of the journey.”

3 8 | a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3

Nyandeng Malek Delic, is the Governor of Warrap state and the only female Governor of South Sudan. She thinks more women will have positions of power in South Sudan in the near future.

She says she was prepared for the task but was also given the opportunity. She was helped by the Government’s rule to employ 25 percent women in senior positions. She had held many positions in the state and the time was right, so it was a combination of being ready for the challenge and having the chance.

Nyandeng says that when she went to campaign in the villages, people were really happy to have a change and a woman in leadership, and so far they are happy. Most of her colleagues were previously generals. Sometimes she feel out of place when they talk about the battles they have fought, but she thinks it depends how she presents herself. If people see her as fully confident, they will not have a problem with her being a woman.

Her style of leadership is participatory. She likes to consult and hear from her cabinet before taking major decisions. That is how she approaches challenges.

“Women should not feel excluded from these positions, she says. “I, as well as Nunu Kumba (Minister for Housing and Planning), have been nominated. In my case, I was the most highly voted governor after the president, with more than half a million votes. That should put an end to the idea that women are not suited to power.”

Most men have no problem with female leadership, Nandeng says. In fact they see it as a good alternative

for male leadership. (source: www.theniles.org)

Nyandeng Malek Delic

Margaret Chacha, is currently TWB’s Managing Director.

She has a wealth of experience in the financial sector

spanning over 27 years in senior leadership positions

in various local and international organisations. Prior

to her appointment, she was Operations Manager for

the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

in New York.

She has also held other positions in the United Nations

Mission, CRDB Bank, and NPF (NSSF). Margaret

graduated from The Queen’s University of Belfast and

holds a Masters in Science specialising in Business

Information Management and Technology, as well as a

Degree in Sociology specialising in Industrial Relations

from the University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Margaret also attended bank management course

and various other finance courses at Nsekela College

in Iringa and the Philippines respectively.

After many years of problems, Burundi is on the road to peace. In the last elections in 2010, more women were elected to government and parliament than ever before. Now, 34 of the 106 members of parliament are women.

But in the hills, at the lowest administrative level, membership of women in village councils lags behind, at just under 16 percent. This is why Cordaid and its partner BLTP have launched a project to train 644 women from 23 villages in the provinces of Ruyigi, Muramvya and Gitega in leadership skills, human rights, local legislation and the importance of sound administration. The goal is to get more women taking a part in local administration and enforcing the peace accords at the local level.

The project focuses not only on women, but also on village leaders who are nearly always men. More authority for women demands a cultural shift in traditional village societies, and this is a matter for both men and women. The communication techniques and conflict resolution and negotiating skills the training imparts will be an important part of making this happen.

Burundi Women Preparing for Village Councils

Margaret Chacha

technology

The 2013 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) Floor , held in Las

Vegas, United States of America, in January, was eagerly awaited by technology

geeks and the electronics trade since it gave a good indication of what ‘must have’

gadgets would be hitting the market this year.

The huge show floor spanned the space of nearly 400 basketball courts and the organisers

boasted that Michael Phelps would have to swim 483 laps to travel the 24 kilometres (15

miles) of the carpeted CES show floor!

The Consumer Electronics Association said that 2012 industry revenues were up five per

cent on the previous year, confirming that CE (Consumer Electronics) products play an

increasingly indispensible role in consumers’ lives. Consumer adoption of smartphones and

tablets continues to expand briskly, as mobile connected devices take centre stage in today’s

connected, digital lifestyle.

“We’re seeing not only the broad adoption of technology, but also

density is increasing.”

Ultra High Definition TV

TechTalk by Asante

The Windows 8 launch last October caused most PC

makers to roll out the bulk of their Windows 8 products

at CES. Windows 8 tablets, based on Intel’s latest Atom

Z2760 processor, were increasingly on display in Las

Vegas. Additional hybrid designs are on the way, too, as are

more budget-friendly clamshell laptops, with and without

touch interfaces.

LG have a number of Windows 8 PCs planned for 2013,

including its LG Tab-Book H160 hybrid notebook featuring

an 11.6-inch display, a slide-out QWERTY keyboard, Wi-

Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, HDMI (High-Defination Multimedia

Interface), USB (Universal Serial Bus), and a MicroSD slot.

At CES, LG also displayed an Ultrabook version of the Tab-

Book, another Ultrabook called the Z360, and a 23-inch

touchscreen all-in-one PC, the V325.

Samsung showed off its ATIV S smartphone – the only

Windows 8-powered handset to feature a metallic hairline

design, as opposed to the candy-coloured looks from HTC

and Nokia. Bearing a strong resemblance to such Android

handsets such as Samsung’s Galaxy S III, the ATIV S has

a slim design with curved edges. The ATIV S also has a

4.8-inch Super AMOLED display, an 8-megapixel camera

with LED (Light Emitting Diode) flash, and near-field

communication (NFC) sharing.

Wireless connectivity technology is becoming an increasingly

common feature in smartphones as more consumers

embrace mobile payment apps on their handsets. Screen

sizes continue to get bigger, blurring the line between large

smartphone and small tablet. Huawei, promoted a super-

size 6.1-inch Ascend Mate ‘phablet’ at this year’s CES,

Windows 8 Tablet

Remote Home heating control

Camera-equipped smart vacuum cleaners

Only time will tell which new products will be the big success stories in

the coming months. However, Ultra High Definition TVs, Windows 8

tablets, smart appliances, and smartphone apps (application) fought for

centre stage in the exhibition.

The march towards total connectivity continues, with camera-equipped

smart vacuum cleaners, Internet-connected TVs, mobile apps for

controlling your home’s heat, and Wi-Fi cameras that can upload

your photos to Facebook dotted the large landscape of the Las Vegas

Convention Centre.

“We’re seeing not only the broad adoption of technology, but also density

is increasing,” said Shawn Dubravac, research director for the Consumer

Electronics Association. Tablet ownership has increased from one in ten

households less than two years ago to one in three today.

Apps influenced every aspect of the show. Apple, one of the major drivers

behind the growth of smartphones and tablets in recent years, had no

official presence at CES but mobile apps and accessories designed for

iPhones, iPads, and Macs had a strong presence on the show floor.

Microsoft weren’t there either, but the company and its products cast

along a shadow in hardware, accessories, and apps displayed in their

Windows 8 wares.

together with a Windows phone and several Android-

based handsets.

Another Chinese manufacturer, ZTE, introduced a new

flagship Android phone, the Grand S, at CES. The

electronics maker claims that the Grand S will be the

world’s thinnest 5-inch phone. The ceramic smartphone

will offer 1080p resolution.

Apps were everywhere at CES this year, but especially in

the form of connected apps that enable iPhones, iPads,

and iPod touches to control other devices remotely. One

of the biggest categories for connected apps was mobile

entertainment, especially ones that let you stream live TV

straight to your iOS (iPhone operating system) device.

Accessory manufacturers have been particularly

enthusiastic about fitness technology. From digital

pedometers and heart monitors to scales, apps, Web

services, and sport watches, fitness technology was

much in evidence at this year’s show.

Of course, apps don’t simply monitor your health; they

can also keep tabs on your home. The concept of a

smart home that responds to the

occupant’s every whim has long been

the stuff of science fiction but the

world’s largest consumer electronics

manufacturers have demonstrated

connected appliances that move us

closer to that future. And now many

of those appliances can be controlled

with a swipe on your smartphone.

From Bluetooth refrigerator magnets

to smart stovetops, home technology

is getting more sophisticated – and

more affordable. Samsung and LG

showcased advanced appliances,

and other companies displayed

smaller gadgets for the home. Belkin

picked up a 2013 CES Innovations

The Grand S, the world’s Thinnest

5-inch phone.

award for home appliances for its WeMo Baby, an audio baby monitor that

uses a smartphone as a receiver.

Most consumers still can’t afford smart refrigerators, but smaller home devices

are now well within reach of many prospective buyers. Both LG and Samsung

exhibited robotic vacuum cleaners.

Car makers and accessory manufacturers are working on fully integrating

technology into vehicles. The automotive portion of CES featured high-

resolution displays, touchscreens, voice activation and dictation, and

Internet connectivity.

Of course, processors are not just for PCs. Chips figure prominently in

cars these days, and chip makers showcased electric vehicles that have

processors powering their infotainment system, digital instrument clusters,

rear-seat entertainment, and driver assistance technology.

The focus is also on safety. From self-driving car technology to driver

assistance tech – including ‘third eye’ cameras and a seat-back driver fatigue

monitor – companies are making a serious effort to keep drivers safe (and

awake) behind the wheel.

Wi-Fi cameras will become the norm in 2013; in fact, we may see more

connected cameras than non-Wi-Fi cameras in the next 12 months.

Many more (if not most) Digital Single-lens reflex cameras, mirrorless

interchangeable-lens cameras, and compact cameras will be able to upload

photos and video to social media sites, offload images wirelessly to phones

and tablets, and stream high-definition video as you record it.

Whether you love or hate technology, you certainly cannot ignore it!

Smart fridge

WeMo Baby, an audio baby

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offering panoramic ocean views. Even the award-winning Chui Grill has being improved: the popular Chaîne des Rôtisseurs restaurant has being extended to offer guests a cool, air-conditioned and smoke-free dining section. And there’s a new addition to the Chui family, Wines & Whiskers - a classical wine bar with an impressive stock of southern hemisphere wines.

With five restaurants, stunning bars, a large free-form pool, the Uzuri Spa and a new villa complex, this is a truly magnificent and cosmopolitan resort. And the Chui Team – under the able guidance of the Coast’s most experienced hotelier, Chris Modigell – is looking forward to showing off its new spots!

Voted ‘Kenya’s Leading Resort’ 2012 for the third year running at the prestigious World Travel Awards, Leopard Beach Resort & Spa has a well-earned reputation for excellence. As well as enjoying prime position on Diani Beach among tropical gardens overlooking the Indian Ocean, the resort has extensively upgraded accommodation and facilities making it the preferred destination for holidaymakers and business travellers alike.

Accommodation comprises standard and superior rooms as well as 20 suites, cottages and luxurious private villas. All rooms offer a full range of quality amenities including Wi-Fi connectivity and flat-screen TVs. In March 2013, the Resort is opening a new villa complex – The Residences. Comprising two- and three-bedroomed villas, each with a private pool, this modern development will also offer an Asian fusion fine-dining venue with adjoining bar and will no doubt set new benchmarks for Kenya’s coastal tourism.

To stay ahead of the competition, Leopard Beach has recently embarked on a major renovation programme. The popular Horizon Restaurant and adjoining Kalani Coffee Lounge have being refurbished and extended and now boast large, sweeping terraces

Leopard Beach Resort & Spa Opens New Villa Complex

Asante News

4 4 | a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3

No S

hriN

kS …

Whe

re th

ere

are

By M

oniq

ue K

wac

hou

My earliest memory is of me in my aunt’s embrace boarding a train (or was it

a bus?) for Kumba. I was three years old (so I was told later) and my mother

had just travelled for the greener grass of the United States of America. I was

going to Kumba to live with extended relatives, who were to care for me for a

while. I put emphasis on were, because it never was. That was my first attempt at belonging.

The family was made up of Pa and Mami Anyi, a retired civil servant turned full time

evangelist and a primary school teacher respectively. I remember it was difficult fitting in, as

it would be in years to come. There were six children in all ranging from four to sixteen years

of age. I was the same age as the last child of the family, give or take a few months. Yet I felt

older. Maybe this was because I slept on a dusty mattress on the floor while Cynthia, my age

mate, slept in a crib. Or maybe it was because I could trek up to three trips to the well and

fetch water where she would go just once for herself? Or maybe it was because I had already

learned the cunning to steal sugar cubes from high up on the kitchen shelf in the mason jars

without anyone hearing me. Those sugar cubes made me feel good. I could forget that Cynthia

had a load of gifts on her birthday whereas on mine we just prayed and gave thanks before the

occasional meal of jollof rice. I would suck on one cube at a time at night when everyone had

gone to bed. Or sometimes during the day too, in the firewood kitchen where no one could see

me, and I was alone with memories of what had been said or done. And with every cube I’d

feel a high and smile just from the sweetness, completely forgetting whatever hurt. That was

the beginning of something else, feeding my emotions as American doctors would later say.

I remember few other things about living in Kumba, some pleasant, most not. Like fanning

Mami Anyi with an old calendar while she sat back on the chair watching CRTV news. It

was always boring and I sometimes fell asleep on my feet or got distracted by other children

playing “O ye Mother” just outside the window, their hands and feet hitting the air in musical

rhythm. And my own hands would jut forward out of my control and the calendar would slap

Mami who would either slap me with surprising speed for pudgy fingers, or ask me to go pick

a pin – index finger to the ground one foot high in the air. Or other memories like Fred the third

child telling me the orange seeds I swallowed by mistake would grow out of my head and

become an orange tree. I had wondered whether I would die first or whether the tree would

grow with me alive and I would be a tree-woman. There were good memories, I’m sure there

were: like dancing “Murder She Wrote” while walking back from school in the afternoons, or

like friends who snuck palm-nuts into class and shared. We chewed while the teacher wrote

on the blackboard.

fictionGreat ReadShort Story

a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3 | 4 5

***

My mother didn’t look as

queenly as she had in the

photo: her hair wasn’t done.

She wore a large CPDM Kaba’a and, well,

looked nothing like ‘America - the Great!’

The only way I knew she was my mother

was by the signboard she held with my

name printed on it ‘Elizabeth” and then

who else would be wearing a Kaba’a with

the Cameroonian president’s face on it?

I was still scared all the way to my new

home.

I remember more from this time – this

next season of belonging. I called my

mother ‘Aunty’ for six months because I

was already used to calling Mami Anyi

Ma. In retrospect, I can only imagine how

she felt.

I remember going by the school bus

to Greendale Elementary School and all

the children looking at me, mouths agape

because of my shaved head, not to talk

of the pink medicine mom had rubbed on

the ringworms. I remember the name-

calling, and the fact that I couldn’t even

know what I was being called because the

kids spoke too fast. The only way I knew

I was being insulted was by the looks

on their little faces. I gazed with envy at

glossy long hair of the white girls and the

pretty ponytails of the lacks. I remember

insulting them in my own way:” Ya

mamiya!” “Ya big head like bucket!” “You

wowo!”

I recall being put in ESOL (Educational

Services Overseas Limited) to learn to

speak like the rest. And recall that as

the years passed I, too, acquired that

American slang and rhythm of speech,

not bothering to pronounce words

completely; you kno’ what I mean? Even

***

My next vivid memory is

of another journey. I was

boarding a plane bound for

the United States this time. It was 1995

and I was six years old, and all I knew

was that I was leaving Cameroon to go

and be with my mother.

Mami Anyi was seeing me off at the

airport with some of the children. They

all looked at me with a bit of amazement

and envy. And for once I did not pity

myself, despite the ringworm on my

shaved head and the fact that Cynthia

still looked prettier than me.

I was scared though. The airport

was so big, and everyone looked so

important, official in my little eyes.

Two nights before as we journeyed

from Kumba to Yaounde, Awa - the

second child, had told me whites were

racists. I didn’t know what that was but

I knew it was bad. He also told me my

documents were fake, so I would be

caught while on the plane and thrown

off into the ocean, and then a big fish

would come swallow me like it did to

Jonah in the Bible. He even showed me

the picture of the huge fish of that story

in Cynthia’s Children’s Illustrated Bible -

her birthday gift from her Godparents.

So I was scared even as they envied

me, because I was going to America

- the Great! It seemed that’s where

everyone wanted to go to, judging from

the lines at Kumba town junction as

people trekked to play the DV Lottery

with their reverently saved 1000frs.

I remember crying as I boarded the

plane in the care of a hostess, not

because I would miss anyone. I made

sure I was out of sight from Ma Anyi

and the others before unleashing the

tears that sprang out of fear that Awa

was right and whites were racists, as

much as from hope that he was wrong

and that they would not throw me off the

plane, so I could finally meet my mother.

She looked beautiful, like a queen in the

little photo I had of her. I had stolen

it from the album in the parlour when

Mami was not at home and looked at

it every night before I slept. And there

was hope: the fish in Jonah’s tale didn’t

eat him up. It took him to somewhere

and spat him out there. Maybe ‘My

fish’ could take me to my mother too!

I swore not to eat fish ever again. Then

remembered Pa saying, swearing was a

sin, I just promised instead.

I needn’t have worried though, at least

not about what Awa told me. The plane

trip had its own problems. Everyone

spoke funny, and I couldn’t understand

what they said. So when I asked for

the toilet and got a speedy response

with a hand pointing at a door I found

locked, I didn’t ask again. I just returned

to my seat, folded the blanket earlier

distributed, peed right on it and folded it

and kept it under the seat. I don’t think

the Albino sitting in the window seat

next to me noticed, though his nose was

so big I’m sure he should have smelled

it. Or smelled something; there was also

dried fish in my little bag that my mother

had presumably asked to be sent to her.

The scents of either or both could have

affected the air conditioning. The food

we were given was another problem,

some strange things called ‘escargots”.

But I found the sugar – it was not in cubes

this time but in small paper sachets, yet

the sweetness still gave me that high.

4 6 | a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3

Popularity is hard to maintain so I never

quite reached to the level of belonging.

I still had to prove myself cool over and

over again, not cringing when I saw

Cindy sticking her fingers down her

throat to throw up her lunch, or readily

acting as errand girl for Andrea who

would send nude photos of herself to

boys she liked in class. I was dreading

the day I’ll be dared to take a whiff of

pot, and was saved yet crucified when

mom found out I was shoplifting, and

we had the ‘Big Fight’.

I remember the fight well; I told I

hated her, with uncharacteristic courage.

Screaming about how she knew nothing

about me. She worked two jobs and

that was all she cared about, she never

understood me, I yelled. I was a pre-

teen, not a kid anymore. And when one

of the new ‘tenants’ of the house, one of

the many who were always there, just

arrived from Cameroon said to me

“All this bad attitude you are giving

your mother will come back to you

through your own children”

I loudly declared that if that was so, I

was doing to my mother what she had

done to hers - cycle complete!

That marked another turning point. I

returned to Cameroon. To my mother

it was the height of punishments.

Either that or get jailed for beating the

‘America’ out of me. The plane trip

was uneventful this time; I knew the

sign on the closed bathroom door read

‘occupied’ and I knew the menu, it was

not foreign to me. I was only that less

naïve.

then it still wasn’t enough. I was still the chubby African kid, African because no one

knows where Cameroon is. I pretended I didn’t know what Cameroon was either, not

to talk of where. I was African, hoping to belong in the category African-American

someday.

And still I remember my mother handing me a bamboo broom to sweep the living

room, saying the vacuum cleaner would make me lazy. I remember her yard sale on

Saturdays, her only free day from the nursing home where she worked. Me, standing

under the sun on a Saturday, “learning how to make money”. I remember her tilling the

backyard of the house to make a farm. Not a vegetable garden, a farm. A farm that was

to grow corn and beans, and njamma-njamma- (huckleberry), imported from ‘home’. A

farm, as compared to the neighbours’ backyard playgrounds and swimming pools. No,

she wouldn’t let me fit in. She was still Cameroonian.

But I tried to fit in, I did. I remember the bags of candy I bought with my lunch money

(and sometimes money I had swiped from my mother’s purse) to share in the cafeteria to

all and sundry and get them to like me. It worked for the 45 minutes of lunchtime, then

it had to be repeated every other day, until they came around me in hordes routinely just

for candy. I could mark this as another milestone, the beginning of superficial friendships

– of begging to be loved.

I can recall my first visit to the shrink. My mom took me for a prescription of drugs;

attention deficit, I think. And in the air-conditioned office with the wall-to-wall carpet that

kids played on I found out I had a problem, and I wasn’t the only one.Taneisha, the girl

that had an appointment before me was fatter than I. Maybe that’s why I had the nerve

to go up to her of all the kids there. She told me she was seeing the shrink for help with

her eating disorder. She was 14, four years older than me. It was Taniesha who told me

about eating food like a drug to calm pain, sadness and just to feel good. I didn’t know

it at the time but she was telling me just what I was suffering from. She introduced me

to Justin the white, brown haired boy who had tried to kill himself on his 16th birthday. I

asked him “why?” – Somehow getting courage in the fact that I was the ‘kid’ and couldn’t

know better.

“Do you believe in God” he asked in response.

“Yes”, I replied.

“Well then you know we will be punished for our sins when we die, right?”

“Yeah, I guess so”, I replied.

“So I figure I should just do away with myself now rather than add more sins to my list,

you know?”

“Does that mean the earlier I die the better?”

“Don’t know about you, but I need to, I have a lot of sins on me, my foster mother told

me so.” I returned to the shrink’s office two more times, still for Retalin prescriptions,

always yearning for a time when she, Dr. Brookes, would look into my eyes and tell

me my problem like Taneisha. Or ask me to lie on the couch like Justin and talk about

everything and nothing.

Yet the day never came. I remember I solved my problems my way; trying to make

myself a family of friends at school. When the cool kids at table five where I sat during

lunch dared me to shoplift with them at Shoppers, I did and was finally accepted.

a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3 | 4 7

***

I remember seeking belonging again. It

was more difficult in a boarding school

where there seems to be both informal

and formal caste systems. Categorized

first by our classes, by wealth, popularity

looks and brains. I remember it was more

difficult because there was no escape. You

were there, round the clock for months

at a time with the people who mocked

and belittled you. Constantly seeing the

popular kids you envied and could never

be, constantly on alert mode trying to fit

in. Here, school did not close at 3pm, only

classes did. School went on like a never-

ending nightmare. And I couldn’t eat as I

would like, there was no way to sneak food

into class to console yourself while those

at the back-rows called you names. And

when all the food in the trunk was finished,

it was more difficult not to break down.

And there were no shrinks around.

***

I often wonder how I made it, when I

remember all that passed in the seven

years of secondary and high school.

It wasn’t until the philosophy class in

seventh year that I knew how I made it,

as Mr. Afanyi explained why Philosophy

took off in Greece despite the fact that

the Greeks had benefitted from Egyptian

knowledge.

“The first and foremost explanation

for the proliferation of philosophy in

Greece was the fact that the Greeks had

answered the ‘question of subsistence’.

They were satisfied physically with food

for their population and … ”

He went on but I trailed off there. Of

course I understood. A hungry man, a man

with problems bigger than himself, one

who had a child in the hospital, who just

managed to survive every day had neither

the time nor energy to philosophise.

To wonder on the ‘just war’ and ‘good life’ is pointless when faced with real war and

strife. Speculation is unnecessary in the face of our reality. And then I understood

how we coped without a shrink. Despite the fact that more than one of the girls in

the dorm had what Dr. Brooke would term an abusive parent and came from homes

riddled with “risk factors of delinquency”; despite the fact most of us felt bad about the

way we looked particularly as we all wore the same spirogyra green shapeless robes

as uniforms; despite these facts we acted like nothing was wrong and did not talk

about it. Why? Because unlike Justin, we could not contemplate suicide to solve our

problems. In fact we knew deep inside that our problems were not problems. We were

fortunate, envied not only among ourselves but by those who had not the ‘priviledge of

an education’. We had all seen looks of envy or outright jealousy from poorer relatives

in the village or children younger than us selling groundnuts and sweets and the school

gates as we came in on re-opening day in our parents private cars. Most of us had

seen death take a relative too early and knew we could die at any time ourselves. What

was the point of doing it yourself? And eating disorders were a luxury in a place where

having food was considered a privilege.

Did this mean we were too primitive to care of our emotional and psychological

health? I wondered after that class strolling back to the dorm. I came to the resolve

I didn’t think so, we were just less shallow. It was an ‘aha!’ moment I think; as I

wondered how I could hate my mother for not dishing out attention as needed or

being the ‘best-friend’ mother Oprah and similar talk show hosts always talked about;

That mother who went to the movies and clubs with you? She could not give what

she never had, could she? For once I looked squarely at the pain and was not hungry.

So I discovered that where there is no shrink, the problems are still there. They just

lose their glare. There are more things deserving care, and things like trying to belong

come tagged along with prayers for your family or neighbour trying to survive, to pass

and exam, or get a job mounted among other complaints to take to church on Sunday.

I did not stop feeding my emotions in that ‘aha!’ moment, but I did heal in a way.

Understanding does that for you – kills some of the fear, the pain. And I found that

the best therapy was not to be had laid back on a office couch, but rather if you’re

lucky like I finally was, you can receive the therapy of people more grounded who will

not tell you ‘what your problem is’ but make you aware of problems bigger than you,

such that you become appreciative of yours. For sometimes all the prescription we

need is a dose of reality. And don’t worry, therapy is free.

Monique Kwachou born in 1989 published her first book; Writing Therapy: A collection of poems in 2010 with langaa RPcIg; a renowned cameroonian publishing house. She is a member and executive of the Anglophone Writers Association (AcWA) and participated in 2011 caine Prize Workshop for African Writing where she published her first short story. She has subsequently published other short stories with FEMRITE Uganda and A second collection of poems with coal and Femficatio Publishing ghana.

She is currently working on her first novel and trying involving other writers in a dream project to produce an anthology of short stories by cameroonian writers

4 8 | a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3

nutrition

This ancient symbol of health and good fortune is fast becoming Africa’s New Superfruit, says Kate Nivison.

Pick Up a Pomegranate!

Do you like surprises? Are you on the look-out

for something healthy and colourful to perk up your

diet? Now’s the time to start checking your local

market (super or otherwise) for pomegranates. They

are in season from February to April in the southern

hemisphere, and will probably have come from South

Africa which is leading the rush, in this region at

least, to meet a big increase in demand world-wide

for these rather odd-looking but fascinating fruit.

Pomegranates are about the size and shape of

a large apple. Their outer skin is tinged with an

attractive reddish colour but dryish, almost papery, to

the touch, while the fruit itself feels hard and heavy

in the hand, so it doesn’t immediately invite you to

take a juicy bite.

So what is it about pomegranates that made them so

desirable? One thing dieticians agree on is that people

everywhere, and as far back as humans go, just love

something sweet. Sugar cane, honey and fruits which

surround their hard woody seeds (the ‘pips’ or ‘stones’

normally discarded by humans) with soft sweet flesh

are obvious favourites. But the pomegranate’s style of

spreading itself around is slightly different. It is only

revealed on ripening, when the outer casing suddenly

bursts open. Crammed inside are hundreds of what

look like mini red jelly sweets just waiting to be popped

into the mouth by the handful. These are called arils.

They are slightly larger than a plump maize grain and

each contains a delicious thirst-quenching hit of juice

with an intriguing hint of tartness. As a bonus, added

crunch and (and goodness) is provided by one tiny

seed per aril.

The recent upsurge of interest came about because

of the realisation that it is quality as much as quantity

that matters when it comes to healthy eating. Fresh

is better than processed, raw is better than cooked,

and anything that ripens red is bound to be full of

the latest magic ingredients – antioxidents. These

help control diseases caused by inflammation and

may reduce the risk of various cancers. Such was the

excitement when pomegranate juice was tested that

some claims of the ‘pomegranates-can-cheat-death’

variety had to be dealt with firmly by the American

Food and Drugs Administration (FDA).

That said, there now seems to be a consensus that

pomegranate juice which includes the crushed seeds

scores twice as high as its nearest rivals, such as red

wine, orange juice and green tea when it comes to

providing an adult’s daily vitamin C requirement, some

of the B vitamins and potassium and antioxidents/

a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3 | 4 9

flavonoids. Ironically, this comes at a time when a

Spanish company has unveiled a high-tech wonder

machine to remove the seeds and aril coating, both

of which contain valuable nutrients. But if only half of

what is being claimed for chomping the arils just as

they come, getting to grips with fresh pomegranates

on a regular basis could be a valuable health tonic as

well as a juicy, colourful treat for the family.

It’s easy once you get the knack. Score the skin/

rind five or six times with a sharp knife from stem to

calyx. It should then pull open easily as an attractive

star or daisy shape. Lay out the aril-covered stars on a

plate and watch them disappear. If you have a sudden

glut, making juice at home is no fun. It’s better to

freeze the arils as they are. Just make twice the

number of scores, then crack sharply on the base over

a bowl of cold water. The arils sink, while the pith and

skin float on the top for discarding. Arils look great

sprinkled over salads of all kinds, and are now often

added when dried to ‘trail mix’ for healthy snacks.

Commercial juice is delicious chilled, half-and-half

with red wine, or as a great mixer in cocktails.

If you fancy a little tree of your own, the seeds sprout easily. They are

popular in China and Japan for bonsai ‘mini-tree’ treatment for indoors or

balconies, and have pretty, scarlet-to-orange, hibiscus-like flowers. But

if you are in it for the long haul, beg a cutting from a neighbour’s tree or

go for one already rooted from a nursery. These will tolerate most soils

except waterlogged conditions. A resting period of drought is actually

essential for fruiting, but in semi-arid areas extra water is appreciated

in the hot season.

The Cape area of South Africa is leading the way in the southern

hemisphere for this healthy and profitable crop, and Australia is catching

on fast. Both have a long way to go before they catch India, the top

producer at around 1.6 million tons a year – more than twice its

nearest rival, Iran, where the story of this remarkable fruit began. But

there are many areas in Africa where pomegranates could be grown

commercially with a little seasonal irrigation, or at home, for good health

and enjoyment.

getting to grips with fresh pomegranates on a regular basis could be a valuable health tonic as well as a juicy, colourful treat for the family.

It’s a truth universally acknowledged

that anyone with a computer and an

e-mail address must be in want of

abundant messages. And so they

come flooding in from the far corners of

the globe, those endless e-mails popping

up from people who assume we’d simply

wither away without the sustenance

their electronic reassurances provide.

Call me old fashioned, but if only we

all followed some basic rules of e-mail

etiquette, our inboxes would not only

be a fraction as full, we might actually

look forward to reading some of the

messages that end up there. As it is,

countless reports have been written

on how many work hours are lost by

employees endlessly scrutinising e-mails

for a few nuggets of real business

correspondence.

The first rule of e-mail etiquette would

be: don’t send an e-mail unless it’s

personally addressed. The ideal e-mail

should certainly contain a personal

salutation. Mind you, salutations can

be something of a minefield. Some

personalised content goes down well,

rather than a simple cut-and-paste

template. For this and other reasons of

politeness, you might want to refrain

from using the cc function unless strictly

necessary. Nobody really wants to read

an e-mail destined for someone else.

As for that dreaded bcc, this is really

considered a little unethical – why are you

showing your business correspondence

to unnamed people without your partner

in that correspondence knowing about

it?

Poor grammar, punctuation and

spelling lurk in most e-mails these days.

For sure, e-mails are generally short, but

that is hardly an excuse for glaring errors.

The same attention to style should be

given to e-mails as any other business

correspondence – at least if you want an

answer.

E-mails should be concise, clear and

mercifully short. There is nothing more

dispiriting, especially on a Monday

morning, than opening an e-mail and

being assaulted by huge blocks of text.

Clear layout – such as a space between

paragraphs – is always welcomed. So is

shortness because reading from a screen

isn’t actually that easy. After all, people

print out long e-mails in order to digest

them more easily, so a clear and concise

e-mail might also just save a few trees.

There is one simple rule about clarity:

use plain text. That’s it, plain and

simple. No HTML, no RTF, no fancy

fonts and colours, no cartoon images of

little chickens jumping up and down. In

short, you are conveying information,

not auditioning for a design position. And

keep plain text… well, plain. SHOUTING

You’ve Got E-mail

Brian Johnston gives tips on business e-mail etiquette.

AT SOMEONE IS NEVER A GOOD IDEA,

and abundant exclamation points have

a similar effect!!! In any case, capitals

are much harder to read, especially for

foreigners who use something other than

the Roman alphabet, and who don’t see

capitals as often as lower-case letters.

Just as annoying are those e-mails

written in such a hurry that the

correspondent apparently didn’t even

have time, in their über-harried day,

to hit the shift key. Capitalise what

should be capitalised, no less no more,

unless you’re practicing your German, in

which case every single noun gets the

exhausting shift key. If you want to turn

to poetry like e.e.cummings, an office is

probably not the best place to let your

creative impulses flourish.

The average e-mail reader is unlikely

to be familiar with eccentric American

poets and, unless they are aged 14, will

hardly be conversant with abbreviations

and emoticons. Remember that many

international e-mails are being read by

people whose first language isn’t English.

While they’ll no doubt be able to quote

Shakespeare, they might not be up to

5 0 | a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3

business

far from beavering away on your new

business arrangements, you’re actually

giggling at your desk with nothing better

to do.

Of course, if you ever find an e-mail

that contains something of use, reply

with the same courtesy as you would to

a missed phone call – surely within 48

hours. Failing to do so isn’t only impolite

but could actually lose you business,

particularly in the case of subscriber

e-mails or customer complaints.

In return, don’t harass someone for

a reply before working out the time

difference; not everyone is hunched over

his or her glowing screen at two in the

morning just waiting for your words of

wisdom. Europeans, North Americans

and Australians are unlikely to answer

e-mails over a weekend (least of all on

a Sunday), the Middle East falls largely

silent on a Friday. Prepare for even longer

waits during Chinese New Year, Easter

throughout Latin America, northern

Europe in August, and a good many

places at Christmas. Out of office replies

will merely come flooding your way.

Perhaps the most infuriating e-mail

faux-pas is the follow-up phone call,

usually from some breathless PR

person wanting to know if you received

the e-mail sent out just minutes ago

promoting their marvellous product –

and what you’re going to do about it.

Here’s the thing. If the e-mail was so

important, you would have answered it

right away. But if it was that important,

why didn’t the breathless sender just

phone in the first place? When

e-mails fly into the inbox,

common sense flies through

the outbox, it would seem.

By the way, you can ignore

the e-mails informing you the

government is now about to

tax e-mails. This is an urban

myth that has been circulating

online for years now. If only it

were true, there might be less

e-mails around – which would

surely be a good thing. For if

there’s anything on which we

can depend, it’s death, taxes

– and a flood of e-mails in our

inbox.

interpreting such abbreviations as BTW

(by the way), ASAP (as soon as possible)

or LOL (laughing out loud) – though the

latter is not a response one would hope

to get after you’ve pitched your grand

concept.

Emoticons are just as absurd and have

no place in business correspondence.

These strings of characters, usually

punctuation marks, are supposed to

convey emotions, the best-known being

the smiley face :-) Well, glad to know

you are happy, but can we just get on

with it? Recipients might react with :-/

or even :-( at this sign of business lèse

majesté, that is if they aren’t already

LOL at your lowbrow antics. Incidentally,

the first smiley face was used online in

1982 by Scott E. Fahlman, a professor

at a Pittsburgh university, though similar

punctuation marks had appeared in print

for some 20 years.

The signature portion of an e-mail is

another area where business sense is

thrown to the wind by those who think

we’re all eager to browse through links,

photos, quotations from Confucius and

the latest Peanuts cartoon – all in search

of something useful, like an address or

phone number. The only other thing it

might be wise to add is a legal disclaimer,

though frankly nobody likes to receive

an e-mail threatening them with legal

action should they accidentally forward

it to their grandmother.

Do not forward chain letters. Do

not send endless joke e-mails that

supposedly brighten up the day of the

recipient. Not only might they not share

the same humour (they almost certainly

won’t, if your e-mail is heading abroad),

but this is sending the message that,

By the way, you can ignore the e-mails informing you the government is now about to tax e-mails.

a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3 | 5 1

Meet the Staff

I am 23 years old. I am a sales and

airport agent at the Air Uganda

Bujumbura station.

I was adopted – hence I’m a British-

Burundian – and I grew up in Bujumbura. I

am also a fully qualified hairdresser. Being

one has meant that I could contribute my

customer care talents positively to Air

Uganda.

In September 2011, whilst I was travelling

in the US, I decided to join a volunteering

movement programme called Youth With

A Mission (YWAM). This is an international

volunteer movement of Christians

from many backgrounds, cultures and

Christian traditions, dedicated to serving

Jesus throughout the world. The purpose

of YWAM (pronounced ‘WHY-wham’)

is simply to know God and to make

Him known. YWAM took me to the

poorest places in India and Nepal. That

experience both humbled me and forced

me to look at the world through a different

point of view. I experienced all modes of

transportation, but driving through the

dangerously, rocky Himalayan mountains

had my stomach in knots and made me

feel as if I was literally on top of the world!

By some stroke of luck – or perhaps fate! –

I was working at a hotel when Air Uganda

held job interviews. I was approached and

asked whether I was interested. I was far too

tempted to let the opportunity pass and was

delighted to get the job. I have not looked

back since.

I drive to work and start my day with what I

love best: dealing with clients. They present

their requests and I try and work with them

to come up with a solution that suits both

parties, through the correspondence of Air

Uganda, to the issuing of their tickets. I

love the feeling I get once I know that my

customers are happy and that we’ve worked

successfully as a team.

Running up and down the ramp, interacting

with various customers, being on time

and having all the pieces in your ‘puzzle’

fall into place... it gives me such an

adrenaline rush and a feeling of self-

purpose. It is a challenging job filled with

huge responsibilities. I have to be ready for

anything because mismanagement of a

situation could be disastrous.

I hope to be successful and happy with the

airline, as well as being a major contributor to

its growth and development. It is important

to be focused, level headed and open

minded, armed with a positive attitude.

The sky’s the limit!

LydiaInamahoroChapman

Adeel HaqManaging Director

p.o. box 45048, 00100 g.p.o, nairobi, kenya

tel: +254 020 4448923/4/5 cell: 0733 641155

fax: +254 020 4448818 or 4441021

email: sales@camerapix.co.ke

Joseph KisiluSales & Marketing

p.o. box 45048, 00100 g.p.o, nairobi, kenya

tel: +254 020 4448923/4/5 cell: 0735 898045

fax: +254 020 4448818 or 4441021

email: sales@camerapix.co.ke

For more information contact: Books ‘R’ Us LTD.P.O Box 45048, 00100 GPO Nairobi, Kenya | Tel: +254 (20) 4448923/4/5 | Fax: +254 (20) 4448818 or 4441021

Email: sales@camerapix.co.ke | www.camerapixpublishers.com

The more you read the more things you will know, the more that you learn, the more places you’ll go. (Dr. Seuss)

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Basic Tips for the Traveller in Uganda

LandUganda is a compact country, with an area of 236,580 square kilometres – roughly the size of Great Britain.

ClimateAlthough situated on the equator, Uganda’s relatively high altitude tempers the heat, and humidity is generally low. Throughout the year sunshine averages about 6 to 10 hours a day. There are two rainy seasons: the main long rains, which start late in February and end in April, and the short rains, which start in October and run until about the middle of December. The region around Lake Victoria, however, receives rain at almost any time of the year.

TopographyIt is located on the equator, within the eastern plateau region of the African continent and between the eastern and western ridges of the Great Rift Valley. Near the borders several mountain masses stand out strikingly from the plateaux.

EconomyUganda is blessed with fertile soils that support a wide variety of food and export crops, both annual and perennial. Agriculture is the dominant sector of Uganda’s economy. The major traditional export crops are coffee, cotton, tea, horticulture, tobacco and sugar cane, while groundnuts, maize, beans, sorghum and millet have emerged in recent years as cash crops for the peasant farmers.

LanguageEnglish is the official language and is also the medium of instruction in Uganda’s education system, from primary school up to university level. Swahili is also spoken. There are some 30 indigenous languages spoken in the rural areas. The most common of these are Luganda and Luo.

Electric supplyAll installations are of British standard and appliances should be fitted with the square, three-pin plugs of British specifications. The voltage is 240 volts, 50 Hz for domestic use. The voltage fluctuates continually, however, and proper surge protectors are advisable for any expensive equipment.

TimeUganda is three hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Time remains constant throughout the year.

PeopleThe people are warm, friendly, and full of humour. They are anxious to make friends with visitors and are continually asking guests whether they are comfortable and enjoying themselves. A large number of people speak English.

ExcursionsUganda is beginning to develop an excellent tourist infrastructure, with first-rate roads and communication facilities. Uganda’s national game, forest and recreational parks are indeed some of the spectacular showpieces Africa has to offer. They do have regulations regarding off-the-road driving, game watching, and so on, which are clearly stated at the entrance gates of parks or on leaflets supplied by the tourist offices. Mountaineering safaris to the Ruwenzori Mountains in the western Rift Valley are now becoming a favourite Ugandan expedition. Similar safaris can also be organised to climb Mount Elgon in the east, sharing the border with Kenya.

HotelsThere are international-standard hotels in Entebbe, Kampala and Jinja, as well as in many of the smaller towns. Camping, rustic bush camps and guest houses are also available. The Kampala Sheraton, the Serena Kampala, the Grand Imperial, and the Nile Hotel, all in the national’s capital are by the best. There are many other less expensive, but quite nice hotels in the city. Outside Kampala, most towns also have a variety of moderately priced and budget hotels.

Banking hoursThere is a wide range of banks in Uganda, particularly in Kampala. Their hours are generally from 0830 to 1400 hours on weekdays, and Saturdays from 0830 to 1200 hours. Forex bureaux keep longer hours – 0900 to 1700 hours on weekdays and 0900 to 1300 hours on Saturdays. ATMs are available in the larger cities.

CommunicationsTelephone, telex, fax and airmail services connect Kampala to all parts of the world. Services are available at the General Post Office and its many branches, as well as in the main hotels. International direct dialling is available and now there are a number of Internet cafes.

Medical servicesUganda has good health services, with some good government and private hospitals and clinics in the major cities. Air rescue services are available.

CurrencyUganda Shilling (UGX). Notes are in denominations of UGX 50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5,000 and 1,000. Coins are in denominations of UGX 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1. You can change money at banks and hotels. Although the forex bureaux usually have better exchange rates.

Credit cardsInternational credit cards are accepted in major hotels and shops.

Working hoursShops and businesses are generally open from 0830 to 1730 hours on weekdays, with a lunch break between 1300 and 1400 hours. Some businesses are open on Saturday, at least until midday. Small, local shops or kiosks on the side of many roads are generally open much later, until about 2130 hours and on weekends and holidays as well; they stock basic food and household items.

Public Holidays

20121 January New Year’s Day26 January Liberation Day8 March International Women’s Day6 April Good Friday9 April Easter Monday1 May Labour Day3 June Martyrs’ Day9 June National Heroes’ Day19 August Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan)9 October Independence Day26 October Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice)25 December Christmas Day26 December Boxing Day

Note:The two Muslim holidays, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are timed according to local sightings of various phases of the moon and the dates given above are approximate.

CustomsBesides personal effects, a visitor may import duty-free spirits (including liquors) or wine up to one litre, perfume and toilet water up to half a litre and 270 grammes of tobacco or 200 cigarettes. Other imported items, not exceeding US$100 may be brought in duty free and without an import licence, provided they are not prohibited or restricted goods, are for personal use, and are not for resale.

Note: A special permit is required to export game trophies.

Health requirementsVisitors from areas infected with yellow fever and cholera required certificates on inoculation. All visitors are advised to take an antimalarial prophylactic beginning two weeks before their arrival and continuing for six weeks after their departure. A gamma globulin injection provides some protection against possible infection by hepatitis and is well worth taking.

Visa and immigration requirementsVisa applications may be obtained at Uganda diplomatic missions. Two photographs are required for visas, which are usually issued within 24 hours. Visas are also available at the country’s entry points. Check with the Uganda diplomatic mission in your country if visa is required as some countries are exempted.

Taxi servicesTaxis are immediately available at Entebbe International Airport. They can also be found outside most hotels in Kampala and at most of the country’s major centres. All don’t have meters, so make sure the fare is negotiated in advance.

Car rentalSeveral firms operate car hire services in Kampala. Vehicles may be hired with or without driver. For trips outside the city it is possible to hire insured cars appropriate for the trip (a four-wheel-drive vehicle with a driver-translator is recommended).

Entebbe International AirportThe main point of entry is Entebbe International Airport, about a 30-minute drive south of the capital, Kampala. Although modest, the modern airport does provide automated passenger facilities, currency exchange, postal services, banking facilities, telephoned, duty-free shops, gift shops and a restaurant and bar.

SecurityThe same rules apply for Kampala as for almost any city anywhere.Be careful and take the usual precautions to safeguard yourself and your belongings. Do not leave valuables in your car. Walking at night in all major centres is reasonably safe.

1. Make sure you purchase your ticket under the exact name that appears on your passport.

2. Do your own bag checks before you leave home, to avoid getting stopped by security and losing innocent (but sharp) items you forgot were in your bag — hello, nail scissors! — Carefully check each piece of luggage at home first.

3. Smoking is not permitted on nearly all flights and many airports have restrictions, too. Be prepared to go without a smoke for the whole duration of your trip.

4. Before the flight, make sure you know your flight number (and any others if you are connecting with other flights). Write it down and keep it where you can reach it easily. You will need it to find the counter to check in, to find your gate, to board the aircraft, and to claim your luggage.

5. Certain clothing and accessories can set off an alarm on the metal detector and slow you down.

Avoid wearing clothing, jewellery or other accessories that contain metal when travelling through the security checkpoints. Pack all your coats and jackets in your baggage where possible. All unpacked coats and jackets must go through the X-ray machine for inspection.

useful travel tips

9. Because of the altitude, airplanes can be quite cold (especially the floor). Always take a jacket or sweater with you on the plane and take one of the blankets that the airline provides.

10. When booking a family holiday, try to book airline seats in advance to ensure that your whole family sits together.

11. Avoid booking flight segments close together. Major airlines consider a connection as tight as 35 minutes to be a valid connection, but this is often not enough time if there are long lines at security!

12. Have a written or typed copy of all passport numbers with issue and expiry dates, and dates of birth of

children - so that you do not need to remove your passports or other documents when going through Customs etc. You will then have the information at hand to complete the numerous forms without having to show where you keep your documents

13. When you claim your bag at the airport, check it over before you leave the bag claim area. Look for any new damage on the bag and be

sure that it was not opened and something taken. The baggage service desk for the airline is normally at the claim area; this is also true for Customs arrivals. Fill out the misplaced baggage information before leaving Customs.

6. The air in the aircraft is dry. Minimize discomfort by drinking reasonable amounts of water and juices. Limit consumption of alcohol, tea, coffee and caffeinated drinks because they cause you to lose fluids. Wear spectacles instead of contact lenses. Apply a skin moisturizer.

7. If you’ve missed a connection, don’t stand in line to rebook with a gate agent. Instead, use your cell phone to call the airline’s customer-service number (tuck it in your wallet before leaving). You may speak

to someone faster, giving you a better chance at getting a seat on the next flight.

8. If you are flying for a special occasion and plan to carry presents in your hand luggage, don’t forget to check hand luggage restrictions first. Make sure all presents are permitted in cabin

baggage and remember that the liquids in hand luggage rules apply to presents too.

Nairobi Sales Office: 10th Floor, IPS Building, Kimathi Street, Nairobi, Kenya. Tel: + 254 (0) 20 313 933/4 Email: infoke@air-uganda.com

Mombasa Sales Office:1st Floor , TSS Towers, Nkrumah Street, Mombasa Kenya Tel: +254 (0) 412 313 626 +254 (0) 734 605 203 Email: reservationmba@air-uganda.com

Moi International Airport (MIA) Sales Office Tel: +254 735 877 289 Email: reserservationmba@air-uganda.comUnit 1 Terminal Building, Mombasa, Kenya.

Head Office: Housing Finance Bank Building,Second Floor, Lower Kololo Terrace Tel: + 256 (0) 414 258 262/4 P.O. BOX 36591 Kampala, Uganda Email: info@air-uganda.com Email: info@air-uganda.com

Kampala Call Centre: Jubilee Insurance Centre 1st Floor, Podium Level, Parliament Avenue, Kampala Uganda. Tel: +256 (0) 412 165 555 (0) 312 165 555 Email: info@air-uganda.com Entebbe International Airport (Ticketing Office): 2nd Floor, Passenger Terminal Building, Entebbe , Uganda Tel: +256 (0) 414 321485 (0) 417 717 222 Email:info@air-uganda.com

PLEASE NOTE : After working hours: Weekdays (17:45 hrs - 21:00 hrs), Saturday (14:00 hrs - 21:00 hrs) and Sunday (07:30 hrs - 21:00 hrs) Please call our Entebbe ticketing office on Tel: +256 (0) 414 321 485 +256 (0) 417 717 222 for assistance.

AIR UGANDA CONTACTS AND OFFICES

Dar es Salaam Sales Office: Harbour View Tours J-Mall, Samora Avenue, 1st Floor P.O.BOX 22636 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Tel: +255 (0) 222 133 322/ +255 (0) 783 111 983 Email: reservationsdar@air-uganda.com

Juba Sales Office: Hai Suk Street (Opp.the Mosque) Juba, Sudan Tel: + 211 (0) 177 800 041 Mob: + 211 (0) 977 153 912 Email: salesjuba@air-uganda.com or info@air-uganda.com

Kigali Sales Office: Office No.26, Union Trade Centre Building, Town Centre Tel: +250 (0) 782 229 572 Email: info@air-uganda.com

Bujumbura Sales Office:Av Du 18 Septembre, Galerie La Perie Tel: +257 (0) 22 277 262 +257 (0) 76 179 000 +257 (0) 76183 000Email: salesbjm@air-uganda.com

word square!

K N Y E R I KQ

U

O

R

O

R

O

T A M O D O DR

X I J I N J A

BU

M O A S AM

U Z L T L

B

U R A N M O P

S I G N U I M

I A H S U R A

How many towns and cities in East Africa can you find hidden in this square?

Look for them from left to right, up and down, and diagonally.

Score: 11 very good; 8 – 10 Good; 6 – 9 Fair.

Add vowels to the following to complete the sentence (3 words)

Hppystrhldys.

Happy Easter Holidays.Answer

The Goose and the Golden Eggs A man had the good fortune to own a remarkable goose. Every day it laid an egg of pure gold. The man grew rich, but the richer he grew the greedier he got. A gold egg a day was not enough for him-he wanted an immense treasure in a hurry. He killed the goose. However, when he cut her open, instead of finding a horde of golden eggs, he found she was just like any other goose.

Arusha, Dodoma, Jinja, Kampala, Kisumu, Lamu, Mombasa, Nairobi, Nyeri, Tanga, Tororo

Robin Redbreast Sweet robin, I have heard them say That thou wert there upon the day The Christ was crowned in cruel scorn And bore away one bleeding thorn,-- That so the blush upon thy breast, In shameful sorrow, was impressed; And thence thy genial sympathy With our redeemed humanity. Sweet robin, would that I might be Bathed in my Saviour’s blood, like thee; Bear in my breast, whate’er the loss, The bleeding blazon of the cross; Live ever, with thy loving mind, In fellowship with human-kind; And take my pattern still from thee, In gentleness and constancy.

George Washington Doane (1799-1859)

aBato corner!Answer

ENTEBBE - NAIROBI FLIGHT NUMBER DEPARTURE TIME ARRIVAL TIME FREQUENCY

U7 202 06:00 Hrs 07:10 Hrs Mon - FriU7 206 14:45 Hrs 15:55 Hrs Mon U7 206 15:30 Hrs 16:40 Hrs TueU7 206 14:00 Hrs 15:10 Hrs FriU7 204 19:30 Hrs 20:40 Hrs Mon - ThuU7 204 19:50 Hrs 21:10 Hrs FriU7 204 08:30 Hrs 09:40 Hrs Sat & Sun

U7 202 17:30 Hrs 18:40 Hrs Sat & Sun

NAIROBI - ENTEBBEFLIGHT NUMBER DEPARTURE TIME ARRIVAL TIME FREQUENCY

U7 203 07:45 Hrs 08:55Hrs Mon - FriU7 207 16:25 Hrs 17:35Hrs Mon U7 207 17:10 Hrs 18:20Hrs TueU7 207 17:40 Hrs 16:50Hrs FriU7 205 21:10 Hrs 22:20Hrs Mon - ThuU7 205 21:30 Hrs 22:40 Hrs FriU7 205 10:10 Hrs 11:20 Hrs Sat & Sun

U7 203 19:10 Hrs 20:20Hrs Sat & Sun

ENTEBBE - JUBAFLIGHT NUMBER DEPARTURE TIME ARRIVAL TIME FREQUENCY

U7 122 07:10 Hrs 08:15 Hrs Mon &WedU7 122 10:00 Hrs 11:00 Hrs Tue,Thu & SatU7 122 10:00 Hrs 11:05 Hrs FriU7 120 15:55 Hrs 17:00 Hrs Mon - ThuU7 120 15:55 Hrs 16:55 Hrs Fri & Sun

U7 120 16:25 Hrs 17:25 Hrs Tue, Wed, Fri & Sun

JUBA - ENTEBBE

FLIGHT NUMBER DEPARTURE TIME ARRIVAL TIME FREQUENCY U7 123 09:00 Hrs 10:05 Hrs Mon, WedU7 123 11:45 Hrs 12:45 Hrs Tue,Thu, & SatU7 123 11:35 Hrs 12:40 Hrs Wed U7 121 14:30 Hrs 16:20 Hrs friU7 121 17:45 Hrs 18:50 Hrs Mon - ThuU7 121 17:40 Hrs 18:40 Hrs Sun

ENTEBBE - DAR ES SALAAMFLIGHT NUMBER DEPARTURE TIME ARRIVAL TIME FREQUENCY

U7 320 09:40 Hrs 11:30 Hrs Mon, Wed & ThuU7 320 09:40 Hrs 12:50 Hrs TueU7 32O 14:30 Hrs 16:20 Hrs FriU7 320 12:05 Hrs 13:55 Hrs Sat & Sun

DAR ES SALAAM - ENTEBBEFLIGHT NUMBER DEPARTURE TIME ARRIVAL TIME FREQUENCY

U7 321 12:15 Hrs 14:05 Hrs Mon, Wed & ThuU7 321 13:35 Hrs 15:25 Hrs TueU7 321 17:05 Hrs 18:55 Hrs Fri

U7 321 14:40 Hrs 16:30 Hrs Sat & Sun

ENTEBBE - MOMBASAFLIGHT NUMBER DEPARTURE TIME ARRIVAL TIME FREQUENCY

U7 320 09:40 Hrs 11:20 Hrs Tue & Fri

U7 320 13:30 Hrs 15:10 Hrs Sun

MOMBASA- ENTEBBEFLIGHT NUMBER DEPARTURE TIME ARRIVAL TIME FREQUENCY

U7 321 12:15 Hrs 15:25 Hrs Tue U7 321 12:15 Hrs 13:45 Hrs Fri

U7 321 15:55Hrs 17:35 Hrs Sun

ENTEBBE - KIGALIFLIGHT NUMBER DEPARTURE TIME ARRIVAL TIME FREQUENCY

U7 350 12:45 Hrs 12:30 Hrs Mon - Thu & SatU7 350 17:20 Hrs 18:30 Hrs FriU7 350 18:30 Hrs 18:15 Hrs Sun

KIGALI - ENTEBBE

FLIGHT NUMBER DEPARTURE TIME ARRIVAL TIME FREQUENCY

U7 351 13:00 Hrs 14:45 Hrs Mon - Thu & SatU7 351 19:00 Hrs 20:45 Hrs Fri

U7 351 18:45 Hrs 21:55 Hrs Sun

ENTEBBE - BUJUMBURAU7 350 09:30 Hrs 09:30 Hrs Tue & ThuU7 352 17:20 Hrs 17:20 Hrs FriU7 352 18:30 Hrs 19:25 Hrs Sun

BUJUMBURA - ENTEBBEU7 351 10:00 Hrs 12:00 Hrs Tue & ThuU7 353 17:50 Hrs 20:45 Hrs Fri

U7 353 19:55 Hrs 21:55 Hrs Sun

For any information contact your preferred Travel Agent or our Sales & Reservation Office on 041 2 165555/ 0312165555 in KAMPALA

Valid from 1 February 2013 Air Uganda Flight Schedule

6 0 | a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3

6 8

8

4

9 4

43

35

9

5

3

8

7

68

43

27

8

1

3

4

6 51

2

57

4 29

14 15

18

16

19

13

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17

22 23

24 25

20

27 28

26

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3130

11

12

61 2 3 4 5 7 8

9

10

CROSSWORD PUZZLE & SUDOKU

Clues across1. Fastening, grip firmly (5)

6. Annoyed (5)

9. Damaged (7)

10. Used to lure someone into danger (5)

11. Less old (5)

12. Ordinary (5)

13. High military rank (7)

15. Encountered (3)

17. Flower, part of the eye (3)

18. Vegetable (6)

19. Plant exudation (5)

20. Missive, part of the alphabet (6)

22. Fog (4)

24. Utter (3)

25. Educational establishments (7)

26. Chew with these (5)

27. Male admirer (poetic) (5)

28. Begin again (5)

29. Underground cell (7)

30. Give assent (5)

31. Become narrower, thin candle (5)

Clues down2. German songs (6)

3. Light cakes of Scottish origin (6)

4. Intrude into a private matter (3)

5. Row (5)

6. Game meat (7)

7. Biblical garden (4)

8. Small hole (6)

12. Less dark (5)

13. Young females (5)

14. ----- gritty (5)

15. ----- Lanza (5)

16. Civil wrongs (5)

18. Nip, steal (5)

19. Income (7)

21. Insect (6)

22. Italian city named o (anag) (6)

23. Part of a jacket or shirt (6)

25. Raised platform (5)

26. ‘Time and ---- wait for no man’ (4)

28. Decay (3)

Place a number from 1 to 9 in

every empty cell so that each

row, each column and each 3x3

box contains all the numbers

from 1 to 9.

No number can appear twice in

a row, column or 3x3 box.

Do not guess – you can work

it out by a process of elimination.

Crossword

Sudoku

Answers across1. Clasp | 6. Vexed | 9. Cracked | 10. Decoy | 11. Newer | 12. Plain | 13. General | 15. Met | 17. Iris | 18. Potato | 19. Resin20. Letter | 22. Mist | 24. Say | 25. Schools | 26. Teeth | 27. Swain | 28. Renew | 29. Dungeon | 30. Agree | 31. Taper

Answers down2. Lieder | 3. Scones | 4. Pry | 5. Scull | 6. Venison | 7. Eden | 8. Eyelet | 12. Paler | 13. Girls | 14. Nitty | 15. Mario16. Torts | 18. Pinch | 19. Revenue | 21. Earwig | 22. Modena | 23. Sleeve | 25. Stage | 26. Tide | 28. Rot

6 0 | a s a n t e F e b – A p r i l 2 0 1 3

Diani’s favourite destination for holidaymakers and business travellers alike is delighted to have been voted Kenya’s Leading Resort at the World Travel Awards 2012 – for the third year running! The resort has recently undergone major renovations including new and improved wining & dining venues and the addition of ‘The Residences’ - a contemporary private villa complex. To celebrate our new look, we are pleased to announce a range of offers for our fellow residents and we look forward to showing you our new spots. Karibu!

take a tour: www.leopardbeachresort.comdrop us a line: nbobookingoffice@leopardbeachresort.comcall us: +254 (0)20 2692844, 0726 803861, 0701 772023

We’d like to make it evidentTo every EA ResidentThat when you stay with usWe won’t charge you for the bus

You can have five nights for fourAnd your kids can sleep next doorOr if you feeling rather madOne can share with Mum and Dad

And for those who need to workYou’ll get every conference perkAnd when your meetings are all doneBring your spouse and have some fun!

Terms and Conditions:Offer valid from February 1st 2013 to April 24th 2013, excluding the Easter Holiday period. Offer includes:· One child sharing with parents up to the age of 12 years free of charge including meals and special rates

for children in a separate room· Five nights for the price of four· No Single Room Supplements in standard rooms· Conference package – 1 in 10 delegates go FREE including FREE Conference and meeting rooms and

spouses stay FREE on bed only basis· FREE transfers from and to Diani Airstrip (unlike other fine resorts)

We at Leopard Beach are jolly proud at being voted Kenya’s Leading Resort for the third year running. So as a heartfelt “Thank You”we’ve come up with some exceedingly tempting offers for East African residents.

Tripadvisor traveller’s choice 2012 winner

OPENINGMARCH 2013

Air Uganda fly to Mombasa 5 times a week from Entebbe

The inflight magazine of Air Uganda part of the

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opy

Asante Issue Num

ber 013 February - April 2013

A Vanishing Way of Life

Night

Uganda’s Fashion Industry

Kampala by

Issue 13