(courtesy : issa michuzi)
While the two leaders of kenya are contempleting on what to do, this kid needs a life and a future. At the moment he is picking maize under a WFP Truck
The day The president of Kenya H.E Mwai Kibaki attended the Opening of Parliament
swaziland foreign minister
Uganda foreign minister Hon Sam KutesaAn Image of Nagaland
A photographic exhibition by
Pól Ó Géibheannaigh
17 January – 22 March 2008
The photographs included in this exhibition were taken in and around Kohima the capital of Nagaland in north-eastern India in December, 2000. They show the participation of tribes of Nagaland in the first Hornbill Festival celebrating the sacred bird of the Naga peoples, an annual festival that now takes place between the 1st & 5th of December every year. All of the Naga tribes unite to celebrate the occasion.The Festival is named after the Hornbill bird which is a part of Naga identity that shows up in the folklore of most of the state’s tribes which is deeply embedded in their cultural history. The imagery, the costume, the enactment of totemic dance is all a part of an ancient ritual, but the circumstances in which these photographs were taken were far removed from a simple anthropological recording of a people’s past. These pictures celebrate a sense of identity which marks a period of optimism in north-eastern India after the difficult period of Naga history.
The state of Nagaland boasts 16 major tribes; a number of these are presented here. The names of the tribes are not a typical recitation of Indian ethnic groups - Angami, Ao, Chakhesang , Chang, Khiamniungan, Kachari, Konyak, Kukis, Lothas, Phom, Pochury, Rengma, Sumi, Sangtam, Yimchungru, and the Zeliang.
In 1947, two-thirds of the land of the Nagas was apportioned to the Indian Federal Union and the rest of their territory fell within the borders of Burma/Myanmar. In the years following 1947, a sense of Naga nationalism arose with the generation of A.Z.Phizo, one of the nationalist leaders who emerged in the period of Indo-Naga war, even down to very recent times a troubled relationship has persisted between New Delhi and the Naga people.
When these photographs were taken in 2000 a ceasefire had just been arranged between the Indian government and the National Nagaland Socialist Council, the Issak-Muviah (NSCN-IM). The Nagas were able, almost for the first time since the establishment of the Indian Federal Union, to celebrate their culture. It is in this atmosphere that they celebrated in 2000 the Hornbill festival.
For the photographer, to be at Kohima at the cessation of hostilities, as a guest of the Ao tribe of the Naga, was an honour. Pól travelled amongst the various tribes and regions and captured these and other images of Nagaland.
BRUNEI GALLERY, SOAS
OPEN: Tuesday – Saturday 10.30 – 17.00
THORNHAUGH STREET
CLOSED: Sunday and MondayRUSSELL SQUARE
ADMISSION FREELONDON
T. 020 7898 4046 (recorded information)WC1H 0XG
F. 020 7898 4259
E. gallery@soas.ac.ukFor further details of the exhibition and events please visit www.soas.ac.uk/gallery
The Britain – Tanzania Society and The Centre of African Studies, University of London
in Association with the Royal African Society
Present
THE PROBLEM OF MALARIA
Wednesday 30th January 2008
6.45 -9.00pm
Khalili Lecture Theatre
SOAS Russell Square
PROGRAMME
6.45pm Introduction by Stephen O’Brien M.P.
Chairman of All Party Parliamentry Committee on Malaria and
Shadow Minister of Health
7.15pm An overview current knowledge by Dr Chris Curtis
Emeritus Professor of Medical Entomology London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
8 pm Panel discussion. The above speakers will be joined by Dr Chris Drakeley of LSHTM
9 pm Vote of thanks by Trevor Jaggar Chairman of BTS {UK Chapter] and Close
A message from Jim Murphy, Labour's Minister for Europe regarding the EU Treaty.
"With the Second Reading of the European Union (Amendment) Bill in the Commons on January 21st, we're entering a period of detailed discussion in Parliament of the Lisbon Treaty.
"The Treaty marks the settlement of the institutional debate inside the EU and ensures that the enlarged Union of 27 can continue to function and to make decisions.
"The Treaty is about more than just institutional reform.
"Well respected NGOs and British businesses are championing the Treaty for the real gains it delivers: on speeding up international aid (Oxfam and Save the Children); on tackling climate change (the Green Alliance); on enshrining for the first time the rights of children (NSPCC and Barnardos) and; on liberalising energy markets (Centrica). With over 3 million British jobs at stake, it never ceases to amaze me how ready the Tories are to put their own party paranoia about Europe ahead of the national interest.
"I'd welcome your views on the important issues for you in all of this."
You can add your views and pose questions to the Minister for Europe in the discussion below. Jim Murphy will then respond to a selection of your comments in a video for the Party's YouTube channel, labour:vision.
Museveni, Kibaki and foreign affairs minister Moses Wetungula after meeting at State House Nairobi
BY VISION REPORTER AND AGENCIES
A photographic exhibition by
Pól Ó Géibheannaigh
17 January – 22 March 2008
The photographs included in this exhibition were taken in and around Kohima the capital of Nagaland in north-eastern India in December, 2000. They show the participation of tribes of Nagaland in the first Hornbill Festival celebrating the sacred bird of the Naga peoples, an annual festival that now takes place between the 1st & 5th of December every year. All of the Naga tribes unite to celebrate the occasion.The Festival is named after the Hornbill bird which is a part of Naga identity that shows up in the folklore of most of the state’s tribes which is deeply embedded in their cultural history. The imagery, the costume, the enactment of totemic dance is all a part of an ancient ritual, but the circumstances in which these photographs were taken were far removed from a simple anthropological recording of a people’s past. These pictures celebrate a sense of identity which marks a period of optimism in north-eastern India after the difficult period of Naga history.
The state of Nagaland boasts 16 major tribes; a number of these are presented here. The names of the tribes are not a typical recitation of Indian ethnic groups - Angami, Ao, Chakhesang , Chang, Khiamniungan, Kachari, Konyak, Kukis, Lothas, Phom, Pochury, Rengma, Sumi, Sangtam, Yimchungru, and the Zeliang.
In 1947, two-thirds of the land of the Nagas was apportioned to the Indian Federal Union and the rest of their territory fell within the borders of Burma/Myanmar. In the years following 1947, a sense of Naga nationalism arose with the generation of A.Z.Phizo, one of the nationalist leaders who emerged in the period of Indo-Naga war, even down to very recent times a troubled relationship has persisted between New Delhi and the Naga people.
When these photographs were taken in 2000 a ceasefire had just been arranged between the Indian government and the National Nagaland Socialist Council, the Issak-Muviah (NSCN-IM). The Nagas were able, almost for the first time since the establishment of the Indian Federal Union, to celebrate their culture. It is in this atmosphere that they celebrated in 2000 the Hornbill festival.
For the photographer, to be at Kohima at the cessation of hostilities, as a guest of the Ao tribe of the Naga, was an honour. Pól travelled amongst the various tribes and regions and captured these and other images of Nagaland.
BRUNEI GALLERY, SOAS
OPEN: Tuesday – Saturday 10.30 – 17.00
THORNHAUGH STREET
CLOSED: Sunday and MondayRUSSELL SQUARE
ADMISSION FREELONDON
T. 020 7898 4046 (recorded information)WC1H 0XG
F. 020 7898 4259
E. gallery@soas.ac.ukFor further details of the exhibition and events please visit www.soas.ac.uk/gallery
The Britain – Tanzania Society and The Centre of African Studies, University of London
in Association with the Royal African Society
Present
THE PROBLEM OF MALARIA
Wednesday 30th January 2008
6.45 -9.00pm
Khalili Lecture Theatre
SOAS Russell Square
PROGRAMME
6.45pm Introduction by Stephen O’Brien M.P.
Chairman of All Party Parliamentry Committee on Malaria and
Shadow Minister of Health
7.15pm An overview current knowledge by Dr Chris Curtis
Emeritus Professor of Medical Entomology London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
8 pm Panel discussion. The above speakers will be joined by Dr Chris Drakeley of LSHTM
9 pm Vote of thanks by Trevor Jaggar Chairman of BTS {UK Chapter] and Close
A message from Jim Murphy, Labour's Minister for Europe regarding the EU Treaty."With the Second Reading of the European Union (Amendment) Bill in the Commons on January 21st, we're entering a period of detailed discussion in Parliament of the Lisbon Treaty.
"The Treaty marks the settlement of the institutional debate inside the EU and ensures that the enlarged Union of 27 can continue to function and to make decisions.
"The Treaty is about more than just institutional reform.
"Well respected NGOs and British businesses are championing the Treaty for the real gains it delivers: on speeding up international aid (Oxfam and Save the Children); on tackling climate change (the Green Alliance); on enshrining for the first time the rights of children (NSPCC and Barnardos) and; on liberalising energy markets (Centrica). With over 3 million British jobs at stake, it never ceases to amaze me how ready the Tories are to put their own party paranoia about Europe ahead of the national interest.
"I'd welcome your views on the important issues for you in all of this."
You can add your views and pose questions to the Minister for Europe in the discussion below. Jim Murphy will then respond to a selection of your comments in a video for the Party's YouTube channel, labour:vision.
Flint welcomes record employment growth
Caroline Flint MP, Labour’s Employment Minister, has welcomed figures showing record employment growth.
In the last three months 175,000 more people have found a job, with the number of people in work reaching a record 29.36 million.
The number of people claiming unemployment benefit fell for the 15th consecutive month to 807,700 – the lowest it has been for over 30 years.
Caroline Flint said: "I'm pleased to see these figures showing growth in employment for both younger and older workers alike - with 60,000 more 16-24 year olds and 95,000 more people over 50 in work than in the last quarter. With record numbers of vacancies in the economy the opportunities exist for people to make the most of their skills and talents.
"These are another set of positive figures on the labour market. But we are determined to do more through our comprehensive welfare reform programme and the roll out of local employment partnerships to help ensure everyone gets the chance they deserve."
Unemployment in Britain remains historically low, down 13,000 on the quarter and 29,000 on the year.
Caroline Flint MP, Labour’s Employment Minister, has welcomed figures showing record employment growth.
In the last three months 175,000 more people have found a job, with the number of people in work reaching a record 29.36 million.
The number of people claiming unemployment benefit fell for the 15th consecutive month to 807,700 – the lowest it has been for over 30 years.
Caroline Flint said: "I'm pleased to see these figures showing growth in employment for both younger and older workers alike - with 60,000 more 16-24 year olds and 95,000 more people over 50 in work than in the last quarter. With record numbers of vacancies in the economy the opportunities exist for people to make the most of their skills and talents.
"These are another set of positive figures on the labour market. But we are determined to do more through our comprehensive welfare reform programme and the roll out of local employment partnerships to help ensure everyone gets the chance they deserve."
Unemployment in Britain remains historically low, down 13,000 on the quarter and 29,000 on the year.
Ndugu wapendwa,
I would like to inform you that Alfred Luhanga is expected to receive Holy Confirmation on 27th January 2008 at St Paul’s Church, Diamond Way, Deptford, London SE8 3DS. From 10.00 am. The mass will be followed by Lunch reception' with the Bishop of Woolwich, in the Crypt. After Lunch reception there will be a small party at a hall to be confirmed shortly. You are all invited.
Luhangas.
I would like to inform you that Alfred Luhanga is expected to receive Holy Confirmation on 27th January 2008 at St Paul’s Church, Diamond Way, Deptford, London SE8 3DS. From 10.00 am. The mass will be followed by Lunch reception' with the Bishop of Woolwich, in the Crypt. After Lunch reception there will be a small party at a hall to be confirmed shortly. You are all invited.
Luhangas.
Kagame gives job to Blair
Monitor Reporter
KIGALI
RWANDA has confirmed that former British Prime Minister Tony Blair has taken on the job of adviser to President Kagame’s government.
The Rwandan daily The New Times, on Monday quoted Dr David Himbara, the head of the Strategy and Policy Unit in the Office of the President, as saying Mr Blair is expected to visit Kigali some time next month to start his services.
"He, [ Blair] met with President Paul Kagame where he expressed interest. Shortly after that, I met him to comprehensively brief him on the situation in our country," Mr Himbara is quoted as saying.
Dr Himbara said he believed that it was a golden chance for the Rwandan government to work with Mr Blair because of his global influence.
Mr Blair's roles include that of a special envoy to the Middle East 'Group of Four' to resolve the Israel/Palestine conflict. The Guardian, a British newspaper reported late last week that Mr Blair had dispatched three ex-Downing Street staff to begin discussions with President Kagame on an unpaid advisory post.
According to The Guardian the team he has sent includes Ms Liz Lloyd, former deputy chief of staff and a specialist on African affairs at No. 10, former private secretary, Ms Kate Gross and Mr David Easton, a former McKinsey's consultant.
Mr Blair, who gave up power last year, has been impressed by the way Rwanda has transformed itself since the 1994 genocide and believes he can raise funds to help Kigali.
Rwanda has the second highest growth rate in Africa. Half of the government's budget is based on overseas aid and more than 50 per cent of the aid is attributed to the British Department for International Development (DFID).
Mr Blair will therefore be seeking to raise funds for his future consultancy. The government of Rwanda has already set up a programme with the British government to pinpoint bottlenecks to growth, including the lack of export growth and building a credible private sector.
Mr Blair's role also comes in handy as Rwanda is already classified by the UN as a heavily-indebted state, with 50 per cent of her population living under poverty.
Since leaving office, Mr Blair has often said he is ashamed at the world's neglect of Rwanda, a country that suffered a ruthless civil war.
Monitor Reporter
KIGALI
RWANDA has confirmed that former British Prime Minister Tony Blair has taken on the job of adviser to President Kagame’s government.
The Rwandan daily The New Times, on Monday quoted Dr David Himbara, the head of the Strategy and Policy Unit in the Office of the President, as saying Mr Blair is expected to visit Kigali some time next month to start his services.
"He, [ Blair] met with President Paul Kagame where he expressed interest. Shortly after that, I met him to comprehensively brief him on the situation in our country," Mr Himbara is quoted as saying.
Dr Himbara said he believed that it was a golden chance for the Rwandan government to work with Mr Blair because of his global influence.
Mr Blair's roles include that of a special envoy to the Middle East 'Group of Four' to resolve the Israel/Palestine conflict. The Guardian, a British newspaper reported late last week that Mr Blair had dispatched three ex-Downing Street staff to begin discussions with President Kagame on an unpaid advisory post.
According to The Guardian the team he has sent includes Ms Liz Lloyd, former deputy chief of staff and a specialist on African affairs at No. 10, former private secretary, Ms Kate Gross and Mr David Easton, a former McKinsey's consultant.
Mr Blair, who gave up power last year, has been impressed by the way Rwanda has transformed itself since the 1994 genocide and believes he can raise funds to help Kigali.
Rwanda has the second highest growth rate in Africa. Half of the government's budget is based on overseas aid and more than 50 per cent of the aid is attributed to the British Department for International Development (DFID).
Mr Blair will therefore be seeking to raise funds for his future consultancy. The government of Rwanda has already set up a programme with the British government to pinpoint bottlenecks to growth, including the lack of export growth and building a credible private sector.
Mr Blair's role also comes in handy as Rwanda is already classified by the UN as a heavily-indebted state, with 50 per cent of her population living under poverty.
Since leaving office, Mr Blair has often said he is ashamed at the world's neglect of Rwanda, a country that suffered a ruthless civil war.
Museveni, Kibaki and foreign affairs minister Moses Wetungula after meeting at State House NairobiBY VISION REPORTER AND AGENCIES
President Yoweri Museveni yesterday held talks with his Kenyan counterpart Mwai Kibaki in a bid to defuse a political stalemate between the government and the opposition following the disputed presidential elections. He was also scheduled to meet opposition leader Raila Odinga, who claims Kibaki stole the December 27 vote. Museveni, who was received at Kenyatta International Airport by Kibaki and his Vice-President, had a two-hour meeting at State House Nairobi immediately after his arrival, said the presidential Press Secretary, Tamale Mirundi. Kibaki updated Museveni on “developments in the country and steps his government has taken to normalise the situation and restore peace in some parts of the country that had experienced some violence,” Kibaki’s office said in a statement. He also briefed Museveni on “steps so far taken to open political dialogue and ensure national reconciliation.” Museveni, on a two-day visit to Kenya, arrived in Nairobi in his capacity as the chairman of the East African Community. Ugandan officials said the President was concerned about the “billions of shillings” lost each day due to the delays in trade caused by the violence. In the first 10 days of 2008, Uganda lost sh1b a day in tax revenues and another sh1b a day in export revenues, mainly from coffee, tea and tobacco. Uganda relies heavily on the Kenyan port of Mombasa for imports and exports. Kibaki “outlined measures so far taken to resume operations along the critical Northern Corridor transit route,” the statement added. Museveni was among the first leaders to recognise Kibaki’s legitimacy after the controversial poll. Former UN Secretary General Kofi Annan was also expected to arrive in Nairobi last night to try and launch talks between the two rivals. The Kenyan government, however, rejected the term “mediation” in relation to his mission, insisting there was no crisis. Former African presidents, African Union chief John Kufuor as well as Washington’s top diplomat Jendayi Frazer have failed to end the crisis. Over 700 people have been killed and 250,000 displaced by post-electoral clashes. At least 63 people have been killed since Wednesday, when the opposition called for a three-day demonstration, prompting police to crack down on protesters, mainly in the Nairobi shanty towns and western Kenya. ODM chairman Anyang’ Nyong’o said the party was filing a complaint with the International Criminal Court in The Hague, charging Kibaki, his cabinet, and police commanders over killings of protesters. “The charges are crimes against humanity,” he said. Kenyan police again fired teargas in the capital yesterday, this time to disperse Kibaki’s supporters. Riot police scattered about 100 government supporters who had been chanting “Lead on, Kibaki!” in central Nairobi, sending businesspeople scurrying for cover. Police forced the protesters into shops and nearby alleys. “The opposition has to recognise Kibaki is president,” trader Julius Kuria said in the panicked crowd. Workers hung out of nearby windows after a teargas canister landed in their office. In a new sign of damage to east Africa’s strongest economy, Kenya’s shilling neared a 14-month low versus the dollar and Kenya Airways said it had seen an 18% drop in passengers from Europe since the crisis began. The government has taken out full-page adverts in newspapers, accusing Western powers, the international media and rights groups of fanning unrest by questioning the election result. US Ambassador Michael Ranneberger dismissed the adverts as “scurrilous propaganda”. The opposition has called for more protests from tomorrow.
