AFRICA'S GREEN TRANSITION PRESENTS ENORMOUS OPPORTUNITIES'
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THE AFRICAN STORY
ADVERTISE
WITH US
DON’T BE LEFT
BEHIND
ISSUE NUMBER 766 VOLUME 2 26 APRIL - 02 MAY 2021
WHO condemns global
vaccine divide – Again!
page 4
Risk of major measles
outbreaks as countries
delay vaccination
drives
page 7
‘AFRICA’S GREEN Upholding the Culture
of Hip Hop – The Roots
and Philosophy of
TRANSITION Zeus
PRESENTS ENORMOUS
OPPORTUNITIES’ page 10
2 Echo Report Echo Newspaper 26 April - 02 May 2021
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‘Africa’s Green transition
kholib@ymhp.co.bw
Head of Design
Ame Kolobetso
presents enormous
ame.kolobetso@ymhp.co.bw
Distribution & Circulation
Mogapi Ketletseng
opportunities’
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Postal address: African Development Bank recovery in Africa. With poverty. the private sector to complement
P O BOX 840, P r e s i d e n t D r A k i nw u m i abundant solar, wind, hydro and European Investment Bank public investments.
Gaborone, Adesina has reminded global geothermal energy resources, President Werner Hoyer “The private sector, especially
Botswana
Telephone: (267) 3933 805/6. audiences of the continent’s Africa’s energy transition alone said the partnerships forged small and medium-sized
E-mail: info@echo.co.bw vast opportunities for green presents a $100 billion per year in addressing the Covid-19 enterprises, is critical in
www.echo.co.bw growth. investment opportunity, he crisis must now be applied to mitigating climate change
“Africa is a huge market said. Agriculture potentially climate change. “Africa may and implementing adaptation
DISCLAIMER: offering incredible offers massive investments in be the continent that is most methods. This calls for innovative
Echo Newspaper welcomes
concise letters from readers. opportunities. The recovery climate-smart crops to build vulnerable to the immediate approaches to attract and steer
Letters must carry the pathway offers enormous more resilient food systems. And effects of climate change but financial flows toward low
full name and address of opportunities. Recovery must climate-resilient infrastructure it is responsible for some of carbon and climate resilient
the sender. Letters must be green and build climate offers investment potential of the lowest greenhouse gas development,” Adesina said.
conform to the laws of resilience. Recovery must boost between $130 billion and $170 emissions per head. This is also A greener Africa must also
Botswana and to the Press
Council of Botswana’s Code green investments,” Adesina billion, Adesina said in a video the continent where mistakes focus on the circular economy,
Of Ethics. Letters will also be said in a keynote address at the address. made elsewhere can be avoided. in which waste can be recycled
edited for length, libel and European Union-Africa Green Speakers emphasized the need Africa can invest in innovative and turned into wealth.
language. Investment Forum on Friday. to build back greener collectively. technologies and make the right For example, a new plastic
The hybrid forum was Several congratulated the United choices for a sustainable and recycling plant in Ghana has
convened by Portugal and the States, after President Joe Biden inclusive future.” already created 2,300 green
European Investment Bank to on Thursday committed to cut In a recorded message during jobs, while converting food
mobilize private and public carbon emissions by 50-52% the opening session, António waste into organic fertilisers
capital towards the green below 2005 levels by the year Guterres, Secretary General will increase the circularity of
transition in Africa. The high- 2030. of the United Nations, said the the food systems, Adesina said.
level event brought together “We need to bring everyone gathering was an opportunity Commending the European
leading government and on board,” African Union to strengthen partnerships and Commission’s External
business figures, international Commissioner Josefa Sako said. boost investment in Africa for Investment Plan, Adesina said
and development financial She called for a just transition the benefit of all. the Bank looked forward to
Read more Echo institutions, civil society and that recognized the historical “I see agendas converging building a strong partnership
stories on our academia. responsibility of the developed around financing a green with the Commission to deliver
Facebook page by Adesina identified energy,
agriculture and infrastructure
world for climate change. She
warned that measures taken
transition and greater resilience.
African countries are rapidly
more in the context of the new
EU strategy with Africa.
scanning the QR as key areas of investment should not push vulnerable s c a l i n g u p r e n e wa bl e s , “Africa is already green. Africa
code below with potential for a post-Covid-19 populations into greater particularly solar and wind just needs to get greener. What
your mobile phone power,” Guterres said. is needed now is more euros to
While climate change is a huge back Africa’s green growth.
challenge for Africa, Adesina Think about the tremendous
urged investors to seize on the green investment opportunities
opportunities it presents, which available today and many more
would be worth $3 trillion by that will emerge into the future.
2030. Think differently, think Africa,”
The African Development Bank he said.
is in the vanguard of investment
in climate adaptation, he said, (APO)
but over 70% of the financing
needed will need to come from
Echo Newspaper 26 April - 02 May 2021 Road to Zambia Elections 3
Zambia must find a way to factors as an example. The
president’s active engagement
and impact of nutrition related
noncommunicable diseases.
balance the economy and public
in promoting healthy lifestyles Therefore, raising awareness
in mainstream media was seen should be an immediate priority
health in tax policy
as good leadership. for Zambia.
The sugary drinks tax in Our findings show that
Zambia was initiated and there is an opportunity to
championed by the Ministry strengthen policies addressing
The burden of excise tax on all non-alcoholic noncommunicable diseases of Health. Initially, a tax rate noncommunicable diseases
noncommunicable diseases is beverages except water. A tax related to nutrition. But we of 20% was proposed. But this in African countries through
growing rapidly across sub- rate of K0.30 (US$ 0.02) per believe the tension need not hurt met strong pushback from the measures like sugar-
Saharan Africa. The conditions, litre was levied. This 3% tax is the public health objectives. There government’s economic sector sweetened beverage taxes.
which include obesity and well below the recommended are opportunities to strengthen and industry stakeholders. They But policy measures should be
diabetes, are now leading causes rate of 20% required to reduce existing taxation of sugary drinks argued this would contribute to contextualised to the needs of
of premature deaths. In Zambia, noncommunicable disease risk by ensuring policies take local a high cost of doing business. the country. The priority of most
noncommunicable diseases factors like obesity. Because economic context into account. Industry attempted to discredit African governments is economic
account for 29% of all deaths. of the low rate, health sector The diseases were linked to evidence supporting the tax. growth.
The consumption of unhealthy stakeholders are suggesting that lifestyle factors such as physical Some suggested that the Zambian A differential tax that
commodities – tobacco, alcohol the tax no longer focuses on public inactivity and unhealthy diet. But government was bowing to distinguishes between
and ultra-processed foods high health. Instead, it’s a general none of the policies we reviewed international pressure without international and local producers
in sugar, salt and fats – is a major source of government revenue. identified sugary beverages as considering the implication of and manufacturers may be a
risk factor for these conditions. In our recent study, my a driver of noncommunicable the tax in the domestic context. feasible starting point to balance
To regulate the availability of colleagues and I looked for diseases in Zambia. Such strong lobbying against the economic interest with public
unhealthy commodities, the opportunities to strengthen Nutrition advocates and tax likely contributed to the low health objectives.
World Health Organisation this tax policy in Zambia. Our government representatives rate of 3% that was eventually Taxation could also support
(WHO) recommends cost- focus was on sugar-sweetened suggested that the lack of adopted. public health by providing
effective, evidence-based beverage taxation. diversity in people’s diets could Respondents suggested subsidies for fruit and vegetables,
interventions. One such measure Our findings showed tension be a contributor to the rise of that revenues from the tax or the provision of safe drinking
is a tax on sugar-sweetened between the government’s noncommunicable diseases. should finance nutrition and water. To achieve this, the
beverages. Sweetened beverages economic and public health Maize porridge – nshima – is noncommunicable disease revenues from the tax could be
are associated with a number priorities. The government a staple in the country and is prevention programmes. These earmarked for health promotion.
of health complications. These has intentions of regulating consumed several times a day. would include health promotion Health problems have their
include an increased risk of production of harmful food But there’s a lack of evidence in and education, regulation of the origins and consequently solutions
type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular products like sugar-sweetened this regard. marketing of unhealthy foods, outside the health sector. This is
diseases and other obesity‐ beverages. But it also commits Pol i c y m a ke r s f e l t t h e improved food labelling, and why consultation must expand
related diseases. to growing the economy by government was well prepared incentives for production of beyond the health sector during
Zambia is one of the African investment in the manufacturing to address the health problem. healthy foods. the development of policies
countries that has acted to regulate sector, which includes the food They pointed to policies such as These suggestions reflected a addressing noncommunicable
the environment for products and beverage sub-sector. the strategic plan for nutrition- perception among all respondents diseases.
linked to obesity. In January This has prevented stronger related noncommunicable that the population was largely
2019 the country introduced an fiscal measures to address diseases and related risk unaware of causes, prevention (TheConversation.)
Echo Newspaper 26 April - 02 May 2021
4 Echo Report
WHO condemns global vaccine
South
African
President
divide – Again!
C y r i l
denounced inequities in vaccine just 0.3%,” Tedros said in a the WHO press conference: “The Ramaphosa called on
The head of the World Health distribution and urged wealthier report about the ACT (Access response of too many leaders pharmaceutical companies
Organization (WHO) has said countries to share excess doses to COVID-19 Tools) Accelerator was ‘my country first’. We made to transfer mRNA vaccine
Coronavirus vaccines remain out to help inoculate health workers set up a year ago. a different choice. We knew technology to low- and middle-
of reach in the poorest countries. in low-income countries. The European Commission that we needed to fight this income countries “free of
said on Friday, marking the More than 3.2 million people said it had sealed the world’s virus not just at home but in all intellectual property barriers”.
first anniversary of the COVAX have died in the pandemic biggest vaccine supply deal, continents and countries, from Reuters.
dose-sharing facility. worldwide. agreeing to buy up to 1.8 billion Asia’s megacities to Africa’s “Let us together challenge
WHO director-general Tedros “Nearly 900 million vaccine doses of Pfizer’s vaccine for most remote villages.” vaccine nationalism and ensure
Adhanom Ghebreyesus was doses have been administered the next few years as a debate Tedros also said that he was that protecting intellectual
speaking on Friday marking the globally, but over 81% have rages over access to shots for concerned about the rising property rights does not come
first anniversary of the COVAX gone to high- or upper middle- the world’s poorest people. caseload in India saying: “The at the expense of human lives,”
dose-sharing facility. The World income countries, while low- Its President Ursula Von der situation in India is a devastating he added.
Health body head has repeatedly income countries have received Leyen, in a recorded message to reminder of what the virus The ACT Accelerator still needs
can do.” India reported the $19 billion this year, Tedros
world’s highest daily tally said adding: “That’s a drop in
of coronavirus infections the ocean compared with the
for a second day on Friday, trillions of dollars governments
surpassing 330,000 new are spending on supporting their
cases, as it struggles with a economies, and the massive
health system overwhelmed revenues that most vaccine
by patients and plagued by makers are generating.”
accidents and lack of medical Dag Ulstein, Norwegian
oxygen. minister of international
French President Emmanuel development, told the same
Macron said that one in briefing: “Continued lack of
six Europeans had been financial support for the ACT
vaccinated, one in five in North Accelerator poses a major
America but just one in 100 obstacle for its ability to deliver
in Africa. at scale.”
“It’s unacceptable,” he said. COVAX, which has shipped
France will step up vaccine 40.5 million doses to 118
donations to COVAX in the countries so far, aims to secure 2
coming months, providing billion shots by the end of 2021.
500,000 shots, including
from suppliers other than ( Reuters.)
AstraZeneca, Macron said,
urging others to do the same.
Echo Newspaper 26 April - 02 May 2021
Echo Report 5
Biden says clean energy shift based GRID Alternatives, a
nonprofit that installs solar
a chance to ‘raise’ people and
systems and also trains low-
income communities and
groups including women, racial
the economy
minorities and ex-prisoners to
do the work.
Many then find jobs in the
solar industry or start their own
business ventures, Mackie said.
From installing solar energy “simply making room for us of Easy Solar, a company that in off-grid solar entrepreneur. “Those most impacted by fossil
in villages in Sierra Leone to at the table, like you did today”. five years has created about 800 In Kenya, decentralised fuel pollution, climate-induced
making electric buses for “Oftentimes, policymakers jobs for young people in Sierra renewable energy companies disasters and burdensome
American schools, the clean form ideas about what they Leone and Liberia, said clean now employ more than 10,000 energy costs must be first (in)
energy revolution the world think is essential for workers energy in West Africa could help workers, most of them based in climate solutions - they must
needs for a safer future can also in a particular state, industry, provide the employment needed rural areas - a figure comparable benefit first,” she said.
bring secure jobs with good region, province or country. for a fast-growing population. to the number working for the U. S . Na t i o n a l C l i m a t e
wages, a U.S.-led summit heard But, really, only workers can African nations should not country’s state utility, Mosia Advisor Gina McCarthy said
on Friday. best answer the question of how have to “worry about a problem noted. the organisation’s work was a
Hosted by U.S. President Joe a net-zero economy includes we did not create” in tackling But off-grid renewables will reminder that clean energy “is
Biden, the second day of the us,” she said. climate change, she said. require billions of dollars in new not a luxury for a few”.
international climate summit Workers can and should be But “I do believe it’s a unique funding to expand enough to “It’s a necessity for all of us,”
looked at how to develop clean key allies in shaping green opportunity to look forward... beat energy poverty in Africa, she told the summit. (Reuters.)
technologies and industries to economy policies and “not an challenge the status quo and say she said.
replace planet-heating fossil after-thought”, she added. economic development does The summit also heard from
fuels, while ensuring prosperity Nthabiseng Mosia, co-founder not have to be dirty,” said the Erica Mackie, CEO of California-
for workers.
“If we can keep the focus on
the jobs we’re going to create,
the economic opportunity, the
growth - and in my country, at
least, on union jobs - to provide
the ability to raise the economy,
raise the GDP, raise every part
of who we are - I think this is
just an incredible opportunity,”
the president said.
One of the first people Biden
spoke to on environmental
issues as he took office was
Lonnie Stephenson, president of
the International Brotherhood
of Electrical Workers, he said.
That was “because I am so sick
and tired of people talking about
how we get this (transition)
done and (they) don’t care
about jobs”.
Biden has sought to connect
efforts to fight climate change
with opportunities to create jobs
in growth industries like green
energy as part of his $2.3 trillion
jobs and infrastructure package,
which requires approval by
Congress.
Stephenson, who heads the
largest energy union in North
America, told the event that
so far not enough employers
in renewable power, including
wind and solar energy, allowed
workers to join trade unions
and secure their labour rights.
He noted there would be
new jobs in boosting electricity
transmission capacity, building
smart neighbourhood grids
and laying fibre optic cables, as
well as in adding nuclear and
hydrogen power and working
on carbon capture.
“The current energy transition
can be a win for the climate and a
win for jobs as long as lawmakers
commit to implementing labour
protections that ensure new
energy jobs are good, union
jobs,” Stephenson said.
Roxanne Brown, international
vice president at large of the
United Steelworkers, a union
with about 850,000 members,
said governments around the
world could put workers at
the centre of building a clean
energy infrastructure by
6 Business & Finance (SMME’s) Echo Newspaper 26 April - 02 May 2021
LEA Upskills Local Businesses
For Growth & Success
Atla Sa Temo Millers
sector, Molepolole Consumer
Cooperatives as well as individuals
in and around Molepolole. With
LEA’s assistance, the business
participated at several seminars
and exhibitions such as trade
fairs, flea markets and market
linkage workshops to promote
management skills that include their products through the
training on record keeping support of LEA.
which is key in monitoring
profitability of the business. LEA also facilitated for the
CONTACTS:
LEA also facilitated technology business to carry out product
73 622 480 or
audit for the business which is testing and compliance to NFTRC
74 318 665
very essential for sourcing the
right machinery. Furthermore,
requirements. In addition, the
company was capacitated with
Email:
the company was also assisted product branding, packaging and
atlasatemo9@gmail.com
to develop a business plan for labelling. The business continues
expansion. to benefit from other LEA
business support services such Facebook:
Atla Sa Temo Millers is a LEA team with passion for quality In addition, LEA facilitated as business advisory, coaching
assisted enterprise situated production and service delivery market access, business linkages and mentoring services. Atla Sa Temo
in Molepolole Industrial Site. to their customers. and marketing strategies for
Directed by Mr. Ross Molaudi, Atla Sa Temo Millers to network Atla Sa Temo Millers supplies
the business mills and packages Atla Sa Temo registered and that landed supply deals varied sizes of sorghum meal,
sorghum products and bi- with LEA five months into with various buyers that include mosutlhwane, ntlatlawane and ARTICLE BROUGHT
products. The business is their operation in 2019. The a chain of wholesalers, retail moroko. The business currently TO YOU BY LEA
comprised of a very enthusiastic enterprise was offered business stores, general dealers, tourism employs five full time employees.
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Pilane: 5729146 Tsabong: 6540196 Ghanzi: 6597161
Kanye: 5403093 Selibe Phikwe: 2613160 Serowe: 4632071
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Masunga: 2489803 Kasane: 6250432 Letlhakane: 2978780
Empowering the entrepreneur to start and grow their business
Echo Newspaper 26 April - 02 May 2021 Echo Report 7
Risk of major measles outbreaks as
close the gaps created at the start information systems, national
of the pandemic. This includes leadership, management and
countries delay vaccination drives
providing policy guidance, coordination. We must also
helping strengthen health engage more with community
systems, training health care leaders and influencers to ensure
professionals, reinforcing disease that everyone understands the
surveillance and the use of data life-saving, transformative
Fifteen African countries Despite challenges, Africa was vaccine in 40 African countries. for action, as well as assisting promise of vaccines,” said Dr
delayed measles immunization declared wild polio-free in 2020. Over 116 million children were with periodic mass vaccination Moeti.
drives last year as they dealt with Vaccines are having a huge impact vaccinated with the third dose campaigns for a range of vaccine WHO and Member States
the COVID-19 pandemic. While on diseases like cervical cancer, of the pneumococcal conjugate preventable diseases. will observe the 11th African
seven of these countries have now hepatitis and Ebola. The region vaccine between 2015 and 2019. “Integrated action is needed Vaccination Week from 24 to 30
completed the campaigns, eight has made significant gains against Alongside the rollout of to increase and expand access to April 2021 – an annual campaign
remain outstanding, posing a meningitis A in recent years and COVID-19 vaccines, WHO is immunization as part of primary that unites partners in calling for
risk of major measles outbreaks. new and underutilized vaccines working with African countries to health care. This must be backed universal access to life-saving
On the eve of the African have been introduced, including ensure that routine immunization by a well-trained workforce, vaccines and greater collective
Vaccination Week – the annual the pneumococcal conjugate service delivery is scaled up to strong surveillance, health action on immunization in Africa.
campaign for universal access
to life-saving vaccines on the
continent – new, early data
shows that an estimated 16.6
million children in Africa missed
planned supplemental measles
vaccine doses between January
2020 and April 2021 and eight
African countries reported major
measles outbreaks that affected
tens of thousands during the
period. The outbreaks were largely
due to low routine immunization
coverage or delayed vaccination
drives. In addition, the quality of
measles surveillance in Africa fell
to the lowest level in seven years
in 2020, with just 11 countries
meeting their target.
“Recent outbreaks of measles,
but also yellow fever, cholera and
meningitis all point to worrying
gaps in immunization coverage
and surveillance in Africa. As we
fight COVID-19, we cannot leave
anyone dangerously exposed
to preventable diseases. I urge
all countries to double down
on essential health services,
including life-saving vaccination
campaigns,” said Dr Matshidiso
Moeti, World Health Organization
(WHO) Regional Director for
Africa.
Measles is highly contagious,
requiring at least 95%
immunization coverage in the
population to prevent outbreaks,
yet coverage with the first dose of
the measles-containing vaccine
has stagnated at around 69% in
the WHO African Region since
2013. Only seven countries in the
region achieved 95% measles-
containing vaccine coverage
in 2019.
I urge all countries to double
down on essential health services,
including life-saving vaccination
campaigns
The low measles coverage
reflects a wider stagnation in
routine immunization in Africa
that, in some countries, has been
exacerbated by the pandemic
and related restrictions. Most
diseases, including tetanus,
diphtheria and yellow fever,
require 90% coverage in the
population, yet rates in Africa
remained stuck at around 70 to
75% over the last decade.
Around 9 million children
in the African region miss life-
saving vaccines each year and
one in five children remain
unprotected from vaccine
preventable diseases, which
claim the lives of over 500 000
children under 5 years in Africa
every year.
8 Business & Finance Echo Newspaper 26 April - 02 May 2021
Nairobi boasting accelerator
ecosystems, homegrown
unicorns and big tech offices.
A report from Google and
the International Finance
Corporation (IFC) shows that the
technology start-up ecosystem
is helping drive Africa’s internet
economy towards a projected
value of $180 billion by 2025.
The leading sectors of growth
in Africa’s internet economy are
financial technology (fintech),
e-commerce, health, e-logistics,
e-mobility and food delivery. Key
drivers of this transformation
include increased access to more
affordable and higher-speed
Internet across the continent
triggered by the coronavirus
The rise of African Technology
pandemic.
African technology companies
are facing competition from
Giants
foreign technology companies
setting up headquarters in Africa.
Twitter recently announced
its African headquarters will
By Emmanuel Allottey single market with a combined continent has the highest mobile economy in Africa is the be in Ghana. Amazon, the
gross domestic product (GDP) of penetration and fastest growing continent’s leader in technology biggest company in the world
Technology offers Africa the $3.4 trillion. This will facilitate digital adoption rate in the start-ups. Jumia was the pioneer has greenlighted South Africa
opportunity to leapfrog from regional economic communities world. of Africa’s first e-commerce to be the home to its African
a poverty stricken, under- to become more integrated with All these factors present service that listed on the New Headquarters. Google has
developed continent to become increased market access for the perfect combination York stock exchange (NYSE). opened an artificial intelligence
leaders in the 4th Industrial technology companies. for exponential growth and Another notable innovation lab in Ghana, the first for the
revolution. The African continent Africa has the enabling economic prosperity. The that has emerged in East company on the continent.
has remained resilient in the factors that make the growth explosion of technology hubs Africa is Mpesa – a mobile The emergence of technology
face of numerous challenges, of technology companies and incubation centres is driving phone based money transfer giants has the potential to
however an emerging area for conducive. The continent will a start-up and innovation culture service, payments and micro- leapfrog Africa into the 4th
growth and dominance is in the have the youngest, fastest on the continent supported by financing service, that is driving industrial revolution with the
technology industry. growing, and increasingly partnership with businesses and financial inclusion. Cities that resilient growth of the African
The African Continental Free urbanized workforce by governments. have emerged as regional tech technology sector.
Trade Area will create the largest 2050. In addition, the African Nigeria, home of the largest hubs are Cape Town, Cairo, and
primary school model uses a
technology-based approach
and offers a curriculum taught
by internally trained teachers.
The cost of providing teaching
material to students is greatly
reduced with the use of online
learning and technology.
As more players enter the
private education space and
compete for market share,
the competition is expected
to improve the quality of
education and lower the cost
of delivering private school
education.
Rapid population
growth, rural to urban
migration combined with
mismanagement of resources
have caused a deterioration
The Business of Private
in the quality of education in
public schools. Government
policies for inclusive growth,
Education in Africa
the eradication of poverty
and exclusion, increased
investment in education and
human development, and
good governance to ensure a
By Emmanuel Allottey education. Entrepreneurs exponentially grown in the last cost can be fully recovered fairer distribution of assets will
are looking to capitalise on decade with lucrative returns. through the school fees and reduce the long term effects of
Africa is booming with the disruption caused by the Private investors have started other additional fees. The fee inequality between private and
business opportunities. The rise coronavirus pandemic to investing in the acquisition of structure can be itemised to public education.
of the middle class has increased introduce low-cost private international schools across allow for different amounts Quality education has been
the demand for private schools as education models underpinned different countries and building a to be charged for the different linked to improved career
an alternative to public schools by technology. brand to differentiate themselves services offered. The fees levied prospects with an increased
to ensure their children get a The population of Africa from competition. are not regulated can be adjusted likelihood to secure a high-
good education. School closures will double in the next 25 The biggest driver of the cost to maximise profitability. status occupation and higher
resulting from the Covid-19 years, reinforcing the market of private school education is The accelerated adoption wages. For parents seeking to
pandemic has triggered the for both public and private the quality of teaching staff, of technology in Africa has secure their legacy, private
review of traditional learning education. The number of seconded by the infrastructure provided the opportunity to school education is the best
models and ultimately the value new Private schools opened and extracurricular activities reduce the cost of education. foundation for their children
derived from private school and enrolment in Africa has provided by the school. This In Tanzania, a low-cost private to succeed.
Echo Newspaper 26 April - 02 May 2021
9 Echo Report
Botswana’s
Debswana expects
new strategy to
create at least $900
mln in extra revenue
Debswana Diamond Company, network,” Balopi said. output by 38% this year to pre- the easing of travel restrictions
a joint venture between the Initial costs of converting pandemic levels of 23 million and jewellers reopen after
Botswana government and the mine to underground are carats, a company official told lockdowns.
Anglo American’s De Beers, estimated at 65 billion pula. Reuters in February, as the global
said on Friday that its new Debswana plans to increase diamond market recovers with (Reuters.)
business strategy adopted last
year should enable it to create
at least 10 billion pula ($924
million) in additional revenue
over the next four years.
The five-year strategy,
adopted at the beginning of
2020, includes restructuring of
mines and is aimed at improving
efficiencies throughout the
group’s operations.
It is being accelerated after
Debswana was hit hard by
the coronavirus pandemic.
Earnings almost halved last
year as sales and production
were hampered by domestic
and global shutdowns and
restrictions on movement.
The new plan has already
seen the company close one of
its smaller low-grade mines,
while a 47-year-old processing
plant was decommissioned at
another mine.
In 2021 the company plans to
make savings of at least 2 billion
pula through the restructuring
of parts of the organisation, its
head of transformation and
innovation Thabo Balopi told
a briefing with investors and
media.
Debswana’s parent company
De Beers last year adopted a new
business transformation model
which sought to restructure
mines, expand in jewellery and
overhaul diamond sales.
As mines get deeper and
costlier to run, Debswana
is looking to convert its
flagship Jwaneng mine into
an underground mine.
Preparations are already
underway to prepare the
company and its workforce
for the transformation after
50 years of open cast mining.
Under the current “Cut 9”
open-cast expansion project,
Jwaneng’s lifespan is being
extended to 2034, with
underground mining expected
to start thereafter.
“The shift to underground
is expected to produce about
9 million carats annually and
extend the mine’s lifespan by
a further 20 years,” Balopi said.
“Early access is expected
by 2023 with full production
from 2034. At full operation,
Jwaneng will be the world’s
largest underground mine with
a more than 360 km of tunnel
10 Echo Report Echo Newspaper 26 April - 02 May 2021
Upholding
the Culture
of Hip Hop –
The Roots and
Philosophy of
Zeus
seemingly insurmountable; “I I am good.” Zeus said.
know that feeling and trust me Zeus said collaboration is
your work will carry you further important and that Hip Hop is
than you think at times.” a fusion genre, great for fusing
different talents together be it
He cited Stevie Wonder as emcees together or emcees with
an influence and Nasir Jones as vocalists or with instrumentalists
his favorite artists and locally and producers. “For me it’s just
credited Nomadic, who was the the vibe, in terms of what I look
first person he heard rapping for in collaboration. I look for
in Setswana as another major something that I like to begin
influence. with. With a lot of young artist
Zeus also highlights Kwaito I will just ask them to send me
and its transition to Motswako something and if I like it I will
as well as Bongo Muffin as other go with it. Also the individual,
influences of his music. I may be a bit old school but
“The biggest lessons of my there is something to being able
career are to believe in you and to connect with that creator as
to have a vision and begin with well, I think it helps the process,”
the end in mind. You have to said Zeus.
have a good sense of where you Zeus said he is revamping his
want to go before you get there. website which should be up in
If I could do anything differently a matter of a few weeks and
I don’t think I would because I will release “Draking” as a free
appreciate everything, I have tape. “After that there will be
been through from the highs my official album release since
to the lows and where it has led I left Sony.
me today and the insight this Zeus said he is very much into
has given me. I like who I am film and television as well now.
complete with my limitations He did a post-grad in motion
and shortfalls as well as the picture film and television,
challenges I seek to overcome. majoring in producing at AFDA
I wouldn’t want to change Botswana. “I grew up loving
anything, I saw a Kobe Bryant cinema and television as much
wouldn’t really put down to any highlights Zeus cited some interview where he has said as I love music and that’s across
By Ryan Blumton one specific moment but rather important and inspirational ‘If you could do things over it formats from film to animation
the collection of those things.” milestones such as his track changes the specialness of each to comedy, drama and sports,”
In this week’s Echo Arts, Zeus said that being a child in the “Imagination” being nominated one of those moments’ so I think said Zeus.
we speak to recording and late eighties his earliest memories for a Channel O award, his first
performing artist Game Goabane have been the influence for his major nomination though he
Bantsi a.k.a Zeus about his music, art and that the name he chose did not win that, the following
inspirations, African music and was inspired from the animated year “Gijima” from his official
career highlights. Zeus is among movie Hercules where he first debut album after he went
Botswana’s most celebrated and heard of Zeus, the king of the independent won. “That was a
awarded artists. He has made a Gods and Greek mythology and huge one because Best Hip Hop
mark on the African continent as Zeus’s ability to walk amongst Music Video for the Channel O
one of Southern Africa’s biggest men and leave a legacy. African Music Video Awards in
Hip Hop artists. Zeus said about Zeus said about African 2009 was mind-blowing, looking
how his career began; “How identity; “I believe Afrocentricity at how we bootstrapped that
I began my career has always is important and to express whole project.”
been a hard question. African identity in the things Zeus won the award going up
Do you begin your career we do as Africans. It’s not just against huge household names
when you are sitting home as for us as artists but all of us even in Southern African Hip Hop
a kid watching TV or listening in business and architecture or such as the late greats HHP and
to the radio and you hear or see in any sphere of life. I always Pro-Kid as well as MI Abada,
something that inspires you give an example of the east, if seemingly against the odds and
that pushes you to that craft or you look at eastern philosophies worked with manager Tshepo
is it the first time you walk into and how they have found a home Sikwane and Tshepo Seeletso,
studio or the first time I went to in contemporary spaces, so no the video producer. Zeus said
rap activity jam or the first time matter what field you are in that winning that award remains
I got into a cypher at school. For the African identity can shine one of the biggest sources of
me it’s all those things. through.” motivation for him and had
It’s a long period of time that I Looking back on his career advice for those facing theEcho Newspaper 26 April - 02 May 2021 Echo Report 11
12 Arts Echo Newspaper 26 April - 02 May 2021
Echo Newspaper 26 April - 02 May 2021 13 Travel
DumaTau: A Luxury
Destination Designed to
Reflect a Serious Purpose
The completely rebuilt travel restrictions, made this an wellness area has been carefully boxes’ containing compelling Enhanced cooling has been
DumaTau and brand new Little interesting build – without very aligned so that it appears to details about elephant and wild provided by plunge pools,
DumaTau, set on the very edge dedicated contractors this could merge with the dark waters dog – both key species used to extensive overhangs, and
of Osprey Lagoon in northern not have been as successful. beyond – an impression that is explain DumaTau’s conservation covered decks. In keeping
Botswana’s Linyanti Wilderness Everybody pulled together and affirmed by the charcoal colour purpose. Additional curiosity with a design philosophy that
Reserve, present an elegant we are humbled to have been able of the pool. boxes are also found in the embraces innovation as well
design that effortlessly blends to work in these trying times Sustainability and celebrating interpretive library, further as tradition, the guest rooms
a sense of place with a clear with such a stellar team”, notes the sense of purpose are also bringing these important stories also feature customised spot-
conservation purpose, providing Anomien Smith, lead architect key to the DumaTau story – to life. The Linyanti is a vital cooling for the bedroom areas
impactful and life-changing from Luxury Frontiers. adherence to Wilderness Safaris’ migration corridor for elephants, – a first for Wilderness Safaris.
journeys to this extraordinary “The previous DumaTau was long-standing ban on concrete and serves as a diispersal hub The redesigned guest rooms also
wilderness area. much loved by guests, and in its camps meant that when for wild dog, and it is therefore feature expanded lounges and
The vision for DumaTau therefore our intention was it proved necessary, one of the crucial that the Linyanti is bathrooms, with the outdoor
was brought to life through a not to completely change the original guest rooms could be protected, with conservation shower just a step away. The
collaboration between Luxury original tented camp, but rather disassembled and relocated with tourism playing a vital role. camps are 100% solar-powered
Frontiers and Artichoke to enhance what was already minimum disruption. Flexibility The tiles on the main bar are and all hot water is heated by
Interiors, in association with there”, Anomien explains. in the design of the expanded illustrated with a hand-painted solar geysers. Water-efficient
artist Gina Waldman, and The extraordinary lagoon- rooms meant that they could map of the Linyanti area, while showerheads, tap aerators and
Wilderness Safaris’ in-house side setting – which regularly be built around existing trees. the copper waterlily installation cisterns also feature.
design and development team. attracts herds of elephant and The simple yet characterful in the spa ties the ideas of Guests who stroll to the
The brief to the architects and other wildlife – is key to the timber cladding effect used relaxation and revitalisation centrally located Osprey Retreat
designers focused on the need to architecture and design of throughout the camps has been to the lagoon-side setting. The will discover not only a pergola
revitalise the camp and align it DumaTau with its seven guest achieved through repurposing colour palette chosen by Câline with daybeds, a Safari Boutique,
with the standards of Wilderness suites and one family suite, and wooden decking from the old runs throughout the camp décor, and deli spaces with delicious
Safaris’ Premier offering, while Little DumaTau, comprising just DumaTau. The explorer tented thereby providing a leitmotiv fresh and healthy snacks, but
retaining the soul of the original four spacious guest suites. The style was retained, while the that connects each area back to a welcoming ‘cool deck’ with
DumaTau. dining room and guest rooms reclaimed timber adds another the Linyanti region. Her chief in-pool loungers.
“We are extremely proud to be have been reorientated to offer architectural layer to enhance inspiration was the presence “We’re confident that the
opening these camps during this more expansive views out over the guest tents and other areas. of waterlilies on the lagoon – architecture and design of
time, emphasising our ongoing the water, with the floating deck In keeping with the ethos of while the obvious step might the camps will delight former
commitment to conservation and fire pit lowered so as not to avoiding waste, even the pallets have been to echo the hues of guests of DumaTau as well as
tourism in the region. COVID-19, impede the vista. The main pool used to transport items to the the blooms, Câline was drawn visitors who are discovering the
and the resulting lockdowns and at the central Osprey Retreat new camp have been pressed to the undersides of the leaves, remarkable Linyanti region for
into service as cladding. On hence the berry, blush, terracotta the first time. With the camps’
closer inspection, the details on and greens, which inform the extremely remote location, small
the hand-dyed cushions reveal DumaTau colour scheme – number of suites and luxury
themselves to have been cut colours that immediately evoke of space, alongside stringent
from old game-drive vehicle the wilderness beyond, and send COVID-19 health and safety
tyres – another way to close the a welcoming message to guests. protocols, we are confident that
circle of the camp’s relationship “All good design should tell DumaTau will quickly become a
with its surroundings. a story”, comments Câline, top Botswana safari choice for
Lead interior designer, Câline and DumaTau is a place with discerning guests”, concludes
Williams-Wynn, worked closely more stories than most. In our Kim Nixon, Wilderness Safaris
with Gina Waldman to enhance choice of colours, materials and Botswana Managing Director.
the authenticity of DumaTau’s techniques, we’ve endeavored
narrative, with each guest to stay faithful to its rich (WildernessBlogger)
room featuring curated art and history, while introducing the
impact-driven décor, as well as importance of the Linyanti to a
two unique, life-size ‘curiosity new generation of safari-goers”.14 Echo Report Echo Newspaper 26 April - 02 May 2021
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said would come into effect “at
the earliest opportunity”, could
fall foul of the International
Cricket Council, who disapprove
of government intervention.
“I have decided to invoke
my powers ... by de-funding
and de-recognising CSA‚“
Mthethwa said in a letter to
CSA on Friday.
“I will‚ as soon as possible‚
also inform the ICC of my
decision and provide them
with my reasons for doing so.”
CSA’s interim board released
a statement in response, calling
it a “sad day” for cricket in the
country.
“Only the Members Council
can retrieve the situation
now by resolving to support
an expedited procedure (for
the new MOI),” interim board
chairman Stavros Nicolaou said.
A Special General Meeting
was held last Saturday where it
was expected that the Members
South African government
Council would achieve the 75%
majority vote in favour of a
change to the MOI, but instead
de-recognises Cricket SA
only six unions were in favour,
while three abstained.
Those that voted against said
they did not have enough time
review the changes, something
the interim board have denied.
S p o r t s m i n i s t e r Na t h i participation in future holding out against agreeing Mthethwa, as well as the South Africa’s next
Mthethwa has turned up the international tournaments a new Memorandum of CSA’s interim board, see this international series is not until
heat on Cricket South Africa’s in doubt. Incorporation (MOI) for the as a necessary step to ensure June when they are due to tour
(CSA) embattled Members The all-powerful Members organisation that would good governance after years of the West Indies for test and
Council after stripping Council, which is made up allow for a greater number graft allegations, which have limited overs matches.
them of the right to run the of the presidents of the 14 of independent directors on bedeviled the organisation.
game, putting the country’s provincial unions, has been its board. The move, which Mthethwa (Reuters.)Echo Newspaper 26 April - 02 May 2021 Sports 15
Zambia – Mwape relishing big test at
Tokyo Olympics
Copper Queens Zambia coach Football Tournament debut, 2004 and Beijing 2008, The because when we qualified for “Yes, we are going to a
Bruce Mwape has described was drawn in Group F against Netherlands who are the 2019 the Olympics, we already had tournament to play big names
the Tokyo 2020 Olympic three previous FIFA Women’s FIFA Women’s World Cup a very good idea about the like Brazil, but to say that
Women’s Football Tournament World Cup runners-up at the runners-up and defending exact caliber of opposition we Zambia is afraid of them is
draw made on April 21st at competition scheduled in Japan European champions, and would be expecting in Japan,” wrong because we will not
FIFA headquarters in Zürich, from 21 July to 6 August 2021. China, who won Olympic Mwape said. be facing Lions but our fellow
Switzerland as “expected and Zambia will face the 2007 silver at Atlanta 1996 and “So, there is nothing footballing sisters. We will
unavoidable”. FIFA Women’s World Cup finished second at the 2009 surprising and there is no way prepare and face them on the
Zambia, who will be making runners-up Brazil, who also FIFA Women’s World Cup. one can say these are tough or pitch, and the 90 minutes will
their Olympics Women’s won Olympic silver at Athens “We are happy with the draws easy groups. We will respect all tell.”
our opponents, but we will not Meanwhile, the Copper
fear them,” he added. Queenss have started their
The Copper Queens will preparations with a couple of
be facing all three Group F high-profile friendlies over
opponents for the first time the last six months, starting
at senior level. in November 2020 when they
Zambia’s route to the beat fellow Olympic finalists
Olympics saw them first beat Chile 2-1 away in Santiago.
Zimbabwe 5-0 at home in a This April, Mwape’s team
single-legged tie, before beating later lost 3-1 to South Africa in
Botswana 1-0 home and 2-0 Johannesburg during a month-
away. long pre-Olympics training
In the penultimate stage, camp in Lusaka.
they were held by Kenya 1-1 in A third friendly scheduled
Nairobi before winning 1-0 in for the weekend of April 24
Lusaka. Cameroon later handed in Lusaka against Kenya was
Zambia their only defeat on cancelled due to operational
the final round with a 3-2 win, reasons in the visitors’ camp.
but the Copper Queens won “ We h ave s t a r t e d o u r
the second leg 2-1 at home to preparations, but the only
qualify on away goals rule. They d r awb a c k h a s b e e n t h e
will be making their Olympic COVID-19 pandemic. It has
debut in Tokyo. really been a challenge securing
“People must remember that friendlies, but while we are
we qualified on merit, and I am trying to organize for them,
sure that even our opponents we shall continue to prepare
have heard about us and have for the Olympics at home,”
some level of respect for us Mwape concluded.
qualifying to the Olympics,” (Cafonline.)
Mwape said.Sport
THE AFRICAN STORY
Echo Newspaper 26 April2021 - 02 May 2021
Motsepe takes up office
at CAF headquaters
President of Confederation administration and to share with to give the administration the to be here, and I need people He told CAF executives “we
Africaine de Football (CAF) you our vision and expectations. necessary impetus. We must who will do a good job. There need you to come with pride and
Patrice Motsepe has settled at It is important to stress that keep the promises we made to is a lot to do, and we need you without any uncertainty. Real
the organisation’s headquarters. under the leadership of General the football community, and I to give 100%.” success takes time to happen,
Accompanied by CAF General Secretary Veron Mosengo- know we will leave a great legacy He expressed his optimism and you are real leaders.”
Secretary Veron Mosengo- Omba, we have a competent for this continent,” Motsepe said. about his mission success, “Success is built on trust. We
Omba, and FIFA Council member staff to do a good job.” Dr. Motsepe was delighted convinced that the current team are going to be successful, and we
Hani Abou Rida, Dr. Motsepe met “Today’s meeting is a follow- to take up his office at CAF will make Africa proud. will be judged on our results.”
CAF Top Management present up to our first meeting held in headquarters and to meet his Since his election on 12 March President Motsepe hit the
in Cairo, before settling in his Rabat on the evening of my staff members. After his election in Rabat, Morocco, Dr. Motsepe ground running last month after
office. election as CAF President. What is in Rabat, he immediately met has always recalled the ambitions he was elected by operating
A staff composed mainly essential is that we must all share with CAF delegation present he has for CAF, highlighting from his office in his native
of managers and directors the ambition to make African in Morocco then. that of making African football South Africa and visited DR
welcomed him in the premises football more competitive at “I was planning to come here more competitive on the global Congo earlier this month for
located in 6 October city, Cairo. the global level. Together with earlier, but as you know the scale. Financially, CAF will need the launch of a pilot interschool
“Today, I am happy to your GS Mr. Veron, we have the sanitary restrictions did not to mobilize more resources for competition project in Africa.
speak to those in charge of the right person and the expertise allow it. Today I am delighted football. (Cafonline.)You can also read
