KAWUMA . COM

Re: You Lazy (Intellectual) African Scum!

2012-01-31T20:53:00.000-08:00

Creditgoes to Field Ruwe for a well articulated, candid and thought provoking article about a conversation he had with Walter a former IMF agent in Zambia on aflight from Los Angeles to Boston. It can be summed up as a pep-talk forAfrican intellectuals to utilize their knowledge, expertise and resources toadvance their societies.

Africanswant to be on a winning team and any helpful advice to push us over the hurdlesis always appreciated. However, what hasbeen said in this article is nothing new. Africa has for long been viewed as acontinent with a lot of potential but lacking a spark and leadership toconsolidate these resources into a productive force.

WhatI find hypocritical about the character of Walter, is the notion that he hasthe audacity to offer a pep-talk to what he calls a “lazy” generation ofAfrican intellectuals to do something and reverse the fate of their people thatare dying, yet he is engaging in activities that are contributing to this demise. Walter is still eager to return toAfrica under the umbrella of an organization with the same agenda as the IMF tofurther exploit the same people he appears to care so much about.

“I was part of the IMFgroup that came to rip you guys off.” He smirked.

It’s similarto a robber breaking into your home and lecturing you about the benefit ofsaving money in a bank instead of hiding it under the mattress. If I was onthis flight seated next to Walter, I would have responded that; “Thanks for theadvice Walter, but you are a robber and your job is to rob and not offer adviceto the vulnerable people you rob”

Am not defending the weaknesses ofAfrican intellectuals that Walter candidly points out. We certainly have a lot ofwork to do. However, I will not down-play the impact of Walterlogy--expatriates that have for longbaited Africa with the “Carrot and stick” “Give me an African president,just one, who has not fallen for the carrot and stick.” Says Walter. The “Carrot and stick” idiom is commonly interpretedas a technique of managing people and inducing behavior by combining the twoprinciples of motivation “reward” and “punishment”. Walter admits that the organizationhe works for including the IMF has been using this approach to manage ourleaders and also gain control and influence over our resources.

“I work for the broker that has acquireda chunk of your debt. Your government owes not the World Bank, but us millionsof dollars. We’ll be in Lusaka to offer your president a couple of millions andfly back with a check twenty times greater.”

The “Carrot and Stick” isa strategy that was historically employed by cart drivers; they would dangle acarrot in front of the mule (always out of reach) while also holding a stickbehind the mule. The mule has two options,either it follows the positive reinforcement of attempting to reach and bitethe carrot and in the process draw the cart or resort to negative reinforcementwhen the driver whips it with a stick and the fear of the excruciating painforces the mule to move forward.

The IMF operates a classic “Carrot and stick”strategy. They provide loan packages (the carrot) with strings attached (structural adjustment policies (SAPs). Countries have toadhere to these conditions—which often flatly outline economic and governingpolicies, where and how loaned money will have to be spent or what has to becut and sacrificed for loans to be repaid. Countries that fail to adhere tothese policies are often cut off from IMF funding, debt servicing or loanforgiveness programs (the stick). Under-the watchful eyes, policies andprescriptions of the IMF, Africa has ownership of the most heavily indebtedpoor countries, inequality is on the rise, economic growth is stunted andWalter is walking away with “acheck twenty times greater” than what was originally invested.

Whatcan the “lazy” African intellectual do to address the issues highlighted byWalter? Can we rally the mules—“animal farm style” and start a revolt to firstand foremost drive Mr. Walter off our farm? Can we advocate and nurture more leaders like Botswana’s “Quett Masire” whoturned down the “Carrot” and wasn’t afraid of the “stick”? Can we emulate thesuccess story of the technological and economic rise of the Asian countries?Can we sacrifice our strong bond and addiction to “Tusker”, Heineken, CastleLager, Guinness, Nile Special and local brew? Can African nations develop a spiritof collective responsibility to tackle African problems? Can we pioneer abetter health care and education system that is pertinent to the needs of oursociety? Yes We Can!

©Kawuma

Why mob-justice is on a rise in Africa

2011-12-29T10:28:00.000-08:00

The pinnacle of thevalues of a society is reflected in its justice system. A platform from which a society definesmorality, revenge, punishment and forgiveness. Every society has guidelines in place to deal with perpetrators andthese guidelines evolve with time. Historically, crime in many African societies was viewed as a privatematter between the affected kinships. Gifts would often be sent to the family of the affected individual(s)seeking forgiveness. When the ‘giftoption’ failed, blood feuds often emerged with retribution in form of an ‘eyefor an eye’ or worse. Other forms ofpunishment included banishment/disowning of individuals from the clan, familyor community depending on the severity of the crime or disgracefulconduct. Disownment was the ultimatepunishment at that time since all the descendants of that family branch wouldhave a curse bestowed upon them. These components of justice had similaritiesto those of ancient Greece and the middle ages.

As society grew andcommunities became more organized with a hierarchical leadership structure,justice was transferred from the control of the private citizens to acentralized system. The concept of laws became common with legislators,enforcers and executioners of punishment. An impartial centralized justicesystem was meant to protect the rights of the perpetrators while alsopreventing the victims from seeking vengeance beyond proportional justice. Theemergence of kingdoms and chiefdoms resulted into adoption of a complex justicesystem rooted in culture, customs and taboos. This was eventually replaced bythe English common law system adopted in the post-colonial era. Under thissystem, one was innocent until proven guilty and actusreus( act of wrong doing) and mensrea (intent/culpable state ofmind)were paramount to proving criminality beyond a reasonable doubt.

The common lawsystem wasn’t perfect either and overthe years cracks emerged in the core with the privileged tragicallytransforming justice into a two tier system. In the western world there is ajustice system for the ‘poor’ and a justice system for the ‘rich’ while in mostAfrican countries, there is a justice system for the ‘politicians in power’ anda justice system for the ‘ordinary civilian’. One of the major barriers towardsprogress in Africa has been society failure to craft a fair justice system. Governmentofficials often overlook and evade laws without consequences. Authoritarianregimes have likewise manipulated the system--- flourishing and holding ontopower through ‘rule by law’ instead of ‘rule of law’. The lack of accountability has resulted intowidespread corruption and plundering of resources leaving many nations trappedin a ‘fiscal’ hole.

The existenceof a justice system for the politiciansin power and a separate justice system for the civilians has significantlydamaged public trust. As a result we have the emergence ofmob-justice/vigilantism, a medieval implementation of justice. It is becoming acommon occurrence in many African countries including Uganda, Burundi, Kenya,Cameroon, South Africa, Ghana, Tanzania and others that thousands of criminalsget slaughtered on the streets. Other factors contributing to the rising occurrenceof mob justice include, a growing number of un-employed youth, socialinequality, corruption, poverty and inadequate law enforcement. The mobassumes the role of prosecutor, judge, jury, and executioner. Primalhuman instincts are activated, transforming a powerless individual into afaceless entity -- unleashing the suppressed and caged beast that has no regardfor societal norms and values. Itis common for a mob to sentence a ‘petty thief’ to death in a matter of secondsand execute the penalty immediately by stoning, beating or burning the victimalive with tires and gasoline. Mob-justice has become symbolic of the mind-set that revenge is ethical in a societythat has an ineffective/ inexistent impartial judiciary. The current system protects the nationalwealth buglers from the justice system leaving the petty thief as a soft targetfor the angry mobs.

Mob-justice is un-acceptable, primitive and has noplace in civilized society. Public sensitizationalone will not curb these atrocities without a reliable justice-infrastructure. The governments have to guarantee anefficient and impartial justice system supplemented by a reliable andresponsive police presence. In addition to that, severe penalties should behanded out to people who participate in these heinous acts to send a messagethat mob-justice is un-acceptable in our society. Social frustration, un-rest and the spiral ofinjustice is leading our communities into moral decay and disregard for thevalue and sanctity of human life. This is an opportune moment to have anational conversation about the need to instill the principles of ‘restorativejustice’ to answer the growing dissatisfaction and disconnect between thepublic and the justice system. In addition to growing public mistrust due to the existence of a tow tier justice system, oursociety has also failed to grasp the abstract legal concept in which crime isconsidered an offense ‘against the state’ rather than the affected ‘victim’. Restorative justice can heal this wound and help our communitiesand victims look beyond retribution and revenge and instead focus on creatingdeeper and meaningful solutions through building bridges and mending relationships. ‘Themob is man voluntarily descending to the nature of the beast’ --- Ralph WaldoEmerson

Sowing the seeds of relevant education in Africa

2011-11-25T08:28:00.001-08:00

The narrative of rescuing African nations from the dungeons has over the years persuasively focused on throwing money at the problem. Education was no exception to the rule with massive inflows of money to the inevitable current state of diminishing returns. At a time when Uganda is offering free Universal Primary Education (UPE) and investing over 6% of GDP on education, the return on invested capital leaves a lot to be desired.

The challenges facing Uganda’s education system can be classified into two categories. Problems money can solve and problems money can’t directly solve (structural and systemic problems). The first set of problems have been targeted for decades by donors and also make the list of the United Nations Millennium Development goals. (1) Improving access to education through building more schools and providing better transportation for students. (2) Raising the standard/quality of facilities and providing additional teaching tools and equipment to cater for the soaring enrollment rates (3) Narrowing the teacher to student ratio (4) Making education affordable for all—and (5) Building community knowledge oases such as libraries and computer rooms.

The systemic problems derive from the notion of ‘relevant education’. Our nations have been provided with the seeds of education for decades without consideration of the unique features on the ground such as the quality of soils in which these seeds are being planted. The approach of 'relevant education' is like a good farmer who focuses on the conditions on the ground such as fertility of soil, moisture content, climatic conditions and overcoming other barriers that could impede successful germination and maturity towards the stage of bearing fruit. How then can we go about planting the promising young human capital in Uganda into the ideal soil?

Staggering statistics highlight the fate of Uganda’s future generation that goes to school and leaves without getting an education. Nine in ten children cannot read and understand an English story in a country where English is the official language. Seven out of ten children cannot solve basic mathematical problems for their age group. This calls for a paradigm shift in the teaching formula from reciting, memorizing facts/direct instruction towards engaging students, implementing activities, encouraging creativity, problem solving and critical thinking. Teachers playing the role of guide/observer while enabling the students to construct their ideas and concepts.

Signs that the runaway train is running out of track point at the millions living below the poverty margin, HIV/AIDS ravaging communities, un-employment at record levels, food shortages from drought and a stagnant agricultural sector, dependence on public sector employment, expanding technological gap and massive transfer of brain-capital through immigration to the western world. Implementing an outcomes based approach towards education is long overdue and the only path to self-sustenance.

- We need to bridge the vacuum that has emerged between the educated minds and the local communities by incorporating community service, internship programs and independent learning projects in the school curriculum.

- Tackling the problems affecting society head-on by offering classes pertinent to the needs of society—such as (a) Agriculture (b) Community Health with emphasis on HIV/AIDS (c) Environmental studies (d) Industry (e) Arts and Crafts (f) Technical skills training (g) Conflict resolution

- Flexibility in the school calendar to accommodate the time constraints of students in rural communities.

- Preparing highly trained teachers to act as knowledge vessels and constructively guide students through the quest for knowledge channeled towards innovation and problem solving.

- Creating a new curriculum that blends environmental and societal needs, traditional African knowledge and contemporary education.

‘You reap what you sow’-- and we have indeed had mixed fortunes in our harvests. Time and again we simply scatter the seeds of irrelevant education across the fields—some fall on the rocks, grow and the sun dries them; some fall in the weeds and they are outgrown; some fall on the paths and are eaten by birds; and the few that fall on rich soil, grow well and produce good fruit. It is high time we got out our plows, digging forks, manure-spreaders and other tools to prepare the soil and plant all the seeds of education on good ground that will bear fruit and nourish Uganda’s future. ‘Relevant education’ is the rich soil that would offer our nation a big harvest and a sustainable future.

The need for education reform in Africa

2011-11-25T07:40:00.001-08:00

Attending school in four different countries was a challenging but enlightening experience. It offered me a great opportunity and experience to look back and reflect on the memorable early years of my education in Uganda. Throughout that period, I never had that rare moment of epiphany or felt necessary to reflect on the system in which I was being nurtured. However, after stepping outside the box and instantly hitting a brick-wall, I came to the conclusion that a lot could have been different had the entire education system in Uganda been changed, if not overhauled.

During my first encounter with education in the western world, I was simply envious of the luxury of having school buses pick up students from their homes– something that reminded me of the five miles I had to walk as a 4 year old to and from nursery school five days a week. This inevitably points to the issue of lack of access to education as well as limited services and resources. Still there has been some improvement since I was in nursery school in the early 80s. Schools are more accessible in the urban communities as well as the available choice of boarding schools where students reside within a school campus. However, many students in Uganda still endure a long walk to school every morning particularly in the rural communities.

Attending Red Cross Nordic United World College in Norway immediately exposed me to students from many different countries. It was a very diverse community and I didn’t have to look further than my room on campus which occupied five of us, from- China, Turkey, Norway, Argentina and I from Uganda. It didn’t take long for me to find out that I had to answer questions about my country. Where are you from? What is your country like? How are your schools? What is unique about your culture? What is the foundation of the economy in your country? What challenges are the people of Uganda facing today? What is the political situation in Uganda? What would you like to change about your community/society? And of course like every Ugandan I was asked about the whereabouts of former dictator Idi Amin.

As these questions and many more continued to rain on me, I found myself drenched and stuck in the Eliza Doolittle conundrum, the character in Bernard Shaw’s play “Pygmalion”. During the colonial and post-colonial education set-up, the idea is to transform the poor, bad mannered, illiterate flower girl -or African in my case- into a duke/duchess. It is hard to fathom that we were punished at school and often spanked by our teachers for speaking our native languages. The choice was simple, either you speak English, or you get spanked. The fifteen years of painstaking regurgitation of education material under the tutorage of my version of Professor Henry Higgins were meant to elevate my social status and enable me to ‘speak the language of Shakespeare, Milton and The Bible’.

Behold, I was finally at the stage where I could show off my learned skills and demonstrate that I could fit in the western world. Unfortunately the script was flipped before my eyes. I was instead required to add diversity to this melting pot of cultures and unique experiences. The cracks in the wall were becoming visible; I was a product of an education system that denied students the opportunity to explore their environment, community, culture and challenges facing their communities.

My parents shipped me off to boarding school at age seven where thousands of other Ugandan students are completely cut off from the realities and needs of our society. It was the best of times in some ways with the friendships, net-working, independence and relationships we created. However, it was also the worst of times when it became clear that the ultimate goal was to groom students for a white-collar lifestyle. The long term consequence has been psychological deruralization—with education becoming a vessel that has expanded the rural-urban division. Ugandans who sail through the current education system eventually feel out-of place or misfits in their own rural communities. This has been a particularly damaging phenomenon because the fabric of our economy, society and livelihood particularly agriculture has a foundation rooted in rural communities. Millions of Ugandans with high academic achievements are stuck in urban centers trapped in the cycle of unemployment and poverty. Others persevere to seek greener pastures in the western world because they have skill-sets that are not applicable to the needs of their community. The question we should be asking at this juncture– how do we go about fixing our education systems to equip Ugandans and Africans at large with the tools to explore, optimize and flourish in their nations?

Dictatorship falsely repackaged as Pan-Africanism

2011-11-02T09:49:00.000-07:00

If a man cares not for his roots, how then can he care for his branches? -- Doyle M. Davis

Pan-Africanism is a philosophy/movement with a plethora of definitions but the underlying goal has always been succinct--uniting people of African heritage. The outcome of unification is empowerment and freedom from dependence. It was a fundamental concept in fighting slavery, colonialism and apartheid. Advocates of ‘African solutions to African problems’ still view pan-africanism as a necessity to tame neo-colonialism and the ghosts of the inferiority complex. Some of the movement icons include Edward Blyden, WEB Du Bois, Kwame Nkrumah, Julius Nyerere, Jomo Kenyatta, and Nelson Mandela among others. Pan-Africanism has historically been a political engine with major goals and accomplishments towards fighting injustice, inequality and human rights violations. In modern day Africa and the Diaspora, pan-africanism has become more or less a philosophical and toothless cultural phenomenon. One would need an archeologist to unearth what is left of pan-africanism. The skeletal remains of the once dynamic creature are currently on display in the museum known as the African Union (AU).

Following the death of Muammar Gaddafi, numerous scholars, pundits and media outlets condemned the National Transitional Council (NTC) and NATO allied forces for facilitating the killing and overthrow of Gaddafi’s regime. Some branded Gaddafi as the remaining voice and visionary of Pan-africanism and indeed an African hero. Opponents of the UN Security Council resolution 1973 also alleged that the mission was primarily a quest for black-gold (oil) masquerading as protecting civilians. Before we all get carried away, I think we ought to shine some light at Pan-Africanism and refresh our minds about the core principles laid out by the founding fathers. Dictatorship is the antithesis of Pan-Africanism. This movement was about nurturing political, social and economic unity, mutual respect and creating a climate of opportunity for all Africans. Pan-Africanism was not about power greed, the goal was empowerment. It was about creating a new breed of leaders-- not locking them up behind bars. Pan-Africanism was about human rights, justice and tolerance not fear and intimidation.

It is dumbfounding that Gaddafi, Robert Mugabe, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and others shelter under the umbrella of Pan-Africanism while oppressing their own citizens. It has become common practice for dictators to resort to anti-western rhetoric when questions have been asked about their patchy and often inconsistent human-rights record and abuse of power. The Pan-Africanism card has historically been played effectively by the likes of Idi Amin who expelled Asians from Uganda and Robert Mugabe who reclaimed land from white farmers in Zimbabwe—to appease at the expense of democracy. Anyone who flies the Pan-Africanism flag in the name of protecting Africans from carnage and exploitation of the western world while engaging in the same behavior he condemns is a hypocrite. Robert Mugabe, Muammar Gaddafi, Mobutu Sese seko, Idi Amin, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Kamuzu Banda and many other dictators don’t deserve to sit on the same table as the founding fathers of Pan-Africanism.

Leaders should never consider themselves to be under the spell of Pan-Africanism without preparing their respective countries for the future. This involves putting in place strong and independent institutions of democracy that would plant the seeds of a peaceful power transition. Pan Africanism was never about simply ranting anti-imperialist or anti-western rhetoric. Pan Africanism is about building a foundation from which African nations can stand on their own feet. Having stability and independence from foreign intervention-- such as foreign aid and policy influence by the Bretton Woods institutions.

If Gaddafi and other African dictators had the interests of Africa at heart, they would have created a free political environment in their countries. Promoting independent branches of government and nurtured future leaders. There would have been no need for war, turmoil and blood-shed in Libya because people would have had a platform to make their voices heard and feel represented in their country. Instead the power hungry leaders create a political environment in which they are the heart and soul of the nation. Libya and other new governments have to start from scratch to fill the power vacuum and rebuild the broken and non-existent political infrastructure. That’s not the behavior of an individual or leader who acts and leads in the best interest of his people or his continent. It is rather symbolic of the current breed of African leaders with an insatiable appetite, desire and hunger for power.

Dictators are the enemy of African unity and the sole reason Pan-Africanism lies in ruins today. It is no secret that what happened in Libya could happen in Zimbabwe, Uganda and a host of other African nations. Pan-Africanism could still be relevant today if Africa had leaders that lived up to the core principles of this movement. Commentators who claim that the fall of Gaddafi’s regime was a counter-revolution and a battle against the vision of a United Africa are forgetting the essence of Pan-Africanism. “If a man cares not for his roots, how then can he care for his branches?

© Kawuma

The Bridge Index: Why people celebrate when Africa’s revolutionary leaders die.

2011-10-25T19:48:00.000-07:00

              “No man is good enough to govern another man without that other's consent”
                                                Abraham Lincoln
Every once in a while on the continent of Africa, a great leader emerges and sweeps our hearts and minds. The revolutionary who offers a vision to empower, include and transform misery into prosperity. A leader who captivates the soul of the nation and unites a population that has for long bled from civil war, tribalism and religious divisiveness. A leader who walks and we follow--on a journey towards a town named freedom. A town nestled between the rivers of liberty and democracy. The beautiful town in the valley of hope in which many of us have never lived nor visited. Every once in a while on the continent of Africa, we have had one of those leaders.

That transcendental leader emerged in Libya in 1969 as Colonel Muammar Gaddafi, Mengistu Haile Mariam of Ethiopia emerged in 1974, Zine El Abidine Ben Ali of Tunisia emerged in 1987, Paul Biya of Cameroon emerged in 1982, Hosni Mubarak emerged for Egypt in 1981, Omar Al-bashir of Sudan emerged in 1989, Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe emerged in 1980, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni emerged for Uganda in 1986 , Denis Sassou Nguesso of the Republic of Congo emerged in 1979, Meles Zenawi of Ethiopia emerged in 1991, Jose Eduardo dos Santos of Angola emerged in 1979, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo emerged for Equatorial Guinea in 1979----among others.

“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader”   John Quincy Adams

We were inspired and promised by our revolutionary leaders that once we enter the gates of the town named freedom, the national cake will be divided equally among all. That each citizen would be treated with dignity and will have an endless bath in the river of liberty. The ladder of opportunity would be accessible for all to climb to greater heights. This town had a set of rules, a constitution that would govern all people. No one we were told, was above the law.

                         “All animals are equal but some animals are more equal than others”
                                                   George Orwell, "Animal Farm"

It didn’t take long for the sun to sink and behold darkness descended on the town named freedom. As the residents blew out their flickering lights and comfortably drowned into dreamland, the nocturnal animals came out of the woods. The rules of the jungle prevailed—survival of the fittest, slickest and strongest. When morning broke and the sun rose, we woke up in a town named captivity. In this town, dissent was not acceptable. Following was no longer a choice. The national cake was served behind closed doors. The ladder of opportunity was only accessible to the privileged. Self interest was valued more than ‘ubuntu’. Pain became an instrument of power. The constitution was amended at will. Our friends and neighbors often disappeared without a trace. A large wall was built around the rivers of liberty and democracy—and inscribed on the walls were the words “Kabi-Danger-Hatari.”

“The bridge index is a point that separates leaders who are cherished and those who are loathed” --- Kawuma Daniel
A moment comes when the masses recognize that their destiny lies in the little town named freedom and not the town named captivity. That moment happens when a leader takes a bite from the forbidden fruit, ‘the bridge index’. When we are cuffed, shackled, blind-folded and forced to walk on the bridge of uncertainty leaving behind our hopes and dreams. The moment when good milk turns sour. A moment that separates leaders who remain part of folklore and those we try to forget. The moment that defines the legacy of a leader to either leave the nation mourning or drag his body along the streets celebrating his death. The point at which human life and morality mean nothing. It is a sign that something went wrong. That a promise was not kept.

Libyans celebrate at Martyrs square in Tripoli
after hearing the news that Libyan leader
Muammar Gaddafi was killed in Sirte

Africa has had a dismal leadership record to the extent that we hardly have any ceremonial state funerals. Following the fall of most regimes, the leadership is either hunted down and killed, flees into exile or whisked off to the International Criminal Court (ICC). Generations of growth and development have been destroyed and millions of lives lost when the people rise up to oust Africa’s strongmen. Power change is a taboo word in Africa today and is often followed by bloodshed. The revolutionary leaders have put at risk the same nations that they initially claimed they were saving from tyranny. However, we also have to understand that one cannot be a leader without followers. Bad followers can enable bad leaders and Africa has suffered from the combination of “bad leadership” and “bad followers.” We have been just as guilty ‘as followers’ in keeping the bad- leaders we worship in power. We often fight on their side to the death because they come from our “tribe” or belong to “our religion” or “reward us” with the lion’s share of the national cake.

We belong in a town named freedom, and the only way to permanently make it home is through collective action—both leaders and followers playing their part. The time is now to make it loud and clear that we have turned the page—and the old ways of governing are un-acceptable. Failure to do so will guarantee a continuous cycle of the distasteful and inhumane moments when the bodies of our once beloved leaders are dragged through the streets. The ‘bridge index’ is the forbidden fruit with dire consequences. One bite is all it takes.
© Kawuma

The need for Education Reform in Africa

2011-08-02T18:37:00.000-07:00

©Kawuma

The Myth of Political Independence in Africa

2011-07-23T16:28:00.000-07:00

The independence of Southern Sudan symbolizes 'the best of times' as millions are freed from tyranny and 'the worst of times' as we continue to drink from the cup of intolerance. The people of Southern Sudan were joyful, beating their drums, humming local tunes of patriotism and dancing in celebration of their independence. It was a historic moment as Africa’s largest country was split into two. Indeed ‘the best of times’ as many of our freed brothers and sisters of Sudan hope to finally turn the page and erase the horrific memories of a tumultuous period of upheaval, bloodshed and suffering.

As the dust settles, it is imperative that we digest the significance of this moment as a continent. Half a century ago, many African Nations including Sudan were celebrating their independence from European Colonial masters. The republic of Sudan gained independence from Britain in 1956. Five decades later, Southern Sudan is once again celebrating independence—but this time from their African colonial masters in Northern Sudan. It was a sweet day of separation as many headlines suggested however, the story that wasn’t covered was the affirmation that we have failed to tame the concept of intolerance. Religious, tribal or ethnic across the continent. Hence the sentiment that it was also indeed ‘the worst of times.’ While the Hutu and Tutsi rely on Kagame’s ruthless doctrine of the genocide ideology to keep them from strangling each other, the religious driven conflict in Sudan requires an imaginary boundary to be resolved.

It cannot be ignored that the partition of Africa did not take into consideration the complexity of the contents in the individual packages/nation states but rather the administrative convenience of the colonial masters. With numerous ethnic groups and religions packaged together, it was inevitable that conflict and mistrust would emerge. The lack of democracy and power transition created friction and mistrust among the ethnic and religious factions since power became a means for leaders to protect and reward their own. The growing tensions made cultivation of national unity impossible with each group striving to hold onto the largest piece of national pie. This phenomenon accounted for the failure to keep Sudan as one nation.

Africa is trapped in a cycle of liberation struggles, first from our colonial masters and currently an endless flock of tenured leaders across the continent. Independence simply meant that we were transitioning from one abusive relationship to another. ‘Independence’ is indeed not the correct word to define that moment because the people are hardly free or independent. We obtained the keys to our vehicle before it got hijacked from the road towards a peaceful and prosperous future. Independence is not what our nations attained but rather the opportunity for a new gang of thugs to plunder our own resources.
The idea of self-determination and enactment of policies that would primarily benefit our communities has often not materialized. In fact our nations faced a double edged sword as we came to realize that independence did not guarantee sovereign equality. We still had no seat at the bargaining table and often got slapped by the invisible hand of the global markets. Neither have the livelihoods of the average citizen changed. The odds are still stacked against them as the days prior to independence. Millions are still buried in poverty, poor health and lack of education. However, the privileged few running the governments continue to suck out what is left of the national treasure living in comfort while the rest of the nation feeds on the crumbs that fall from the rich man’s table.

As the economic conditions continue to deteriorate, the subjects inevitably start to drag the masters off the dining table. Tunisia initiated the first ripple by ousting Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. The collection of ripples soon turned into a wave that swept Muhammad Hosni Sayyid Mubarak from Egypt and has Gaddafi on the brink of defeat. Sub-Saharan Africa is currently engulfed by extreme hunger, poverty and collapsing economies that are threatening the viability of current regimes. It is not surprising that the opposition groups in countries like Uganda are starting to lick their chops— many sensing that the time is now- to wet their beaks.

What has changed since our nations attained independence? What have we achieved in the last 50 years? There over 10 million refugees and internally displaced people from conflicts in Africa. Millions more have lost their lives as a result of civil wars and conflicts. Many hoped that independence from our European colonial masters would open the doors and windows towards unity and prosperity. Instead we are still trapped in stagnant economies with deeply rooted ethnic and religious divisions--the only way out is still up the chimney. Others thought that independence would uplift the spirit of nationalism and collective action to overcome our religious and ethnic differences. This has also turned out to be a bridge too far with a plethora of religious conflicts in Nations such as Nigeria, Ethiopia and Sudan. Tribal and ethnic conflict has ravaged nations such as Rwanda, Kenya, Côte d'Ivoire, Somalia, South Africa and Uganda. We are longing for the dawn of a new day after spending decades in the midst of darkness.

Our leaders have to cultivate the culture of tolerance. Friction and disagreement can be resolved with a well oiled democratic system of governance with strong and viable institutions. We cannot accept defeat and continue to fragment our societies. In fact Africa doesn’t need to look further than South Africa as a case study for solving institutionalized racism and intolerance without a bloodbath. Though still a work in progress, South Africa has created a pluralistic state and progressive constitution to accommodate a very diverse society. We are living in an ever interconnected world and diversity should therefore be cherished and portrayed as a major asset for our nations.

“We could learn a lot from crayons; some are sharp, some are pretty, some are dull, while others bright, some have weird names, but they all have learned to live together in the same box.”

Keeping up with the Joneses-Consumerism and Materialism of African Leaders.

2011-06-02T09:06:00.000-07:00

In his 1899 publication “The Theory of the Leisure Class” Thorstein Veblen introduced the term ‘conspicuous consumption’ that has not only haunted the western world for generations but is also a narcissistic parasite sucking any trace of life and potential left out of Africa. Conspicuous consumption is defined as “lavish or wasteful spending thought to enhance social prestige.” The ultimate goal is to manifest social power and highlight/elevate one’s status in society rather than benefit from the intrinsic utility of goods and services.
This adage fits well with the idiom “Keeping up with the Joneses”—often used to refer to accumulation of material wealth to match one’s neighbors or people they know to avoid the outcast tag of social-economic inferiority. Keeping up with the Joneses has become a genetic trait among African leaders. Amidst the poverty, slums and ghettos of every African nation lie the marble-floor palaces and mansions where the leaders reside in comfort. Private jets are the new shuttles in town at the expense of tax payers. It has also become a tradition in countries like Uganda that the public has to foot the bill for the luxurious vehicles of each member of the legislative and executive branches of government.

Museveni's Shs 88.2 billion Executive Jet

The first act of Uganda’s 9th Parliament followed in the traditional footsteps of the previous Parliaments to demand a monthly salary raise-- from 15 million Ug Shs to 19 million Shs, with an advanced payment of 50 million Ug Shs per Member of Parliament (MP). In addition to that the MPs demanded a tax-waiver on their government purchased/ subsidized vehicles. At a time when millions languish below the poverty margin this was a rather flagrant display of opulence and profligacy by the parliament.

Conspicuous consumption by our leaders has left African nations trapped in the shackles of under-development and mediocrity. It is no coincidence that a booming public sector and large scale industrial growth has been replaced by massive construction of luxurious private homes and Swiss bank accounts that have often been tied to corruption scandals. The massive redistribution of wealth from the lower and middle class to the ruling and upper class is rampant as our elected officials engage in the effort to keep up with the Joneses. The diversion of scarce national resources has made it impossible to respond to the needs of the people. Un-prioritized waste of resources has led to the stagnation of healthcare, education and the much needed social services. The poor are often hurt disproportionately.

Slums in the inner cities

We all live in the world in which Palaces continue to rule the slums—indeed corruption and conspicuous consumption is also prevalent in the western world-- but the difference is that they are sipping from a full glass leaving plenty to sprinkle at the poverty stricken in form of government subsidies and welfare safety nets. African leaders on the other hand have straws drilled in a half-empty glass leaving little to nothing for the masses trapped below the poverty margin.
The only chance Africa has to climb the ladder of progress is having the leadership that aspires to serve the people instead of extraction and embezzlement of national resources. Our leaders have to lead by example—living within their means rather than champagne tasting on a beer budget. There is an urgent need to restore good governance and a value system with the universal core that reaches out to the broader community. A leader can only be as good as the fate of the poorest members of the group that they lead. Leaders should not live in palaces on the backs of the tax-payer while the people they serve continue to languish in poverty, without food, shelter, clothing, or affordable healthcare and education for their children.

“In a country well governed, poverty is something to be ashamed of. In a country badly governed, wealth is something to be ashamed of”

The leaders with the most positive impact towards poverty eradication in Africa are those who first and foremost invest in their society. Those trapped in the facade of having the same luxuries that leaders around the world possess have led the economic fate of our nations down the drain. It is imperative that our leaders opt out of the temptation to ‘keep up with the Joneses’. Around Africa, it is evident that the ‘Joneses Are Broke’. The extravagant display of palaces and private jets by many leader masks the reality of our indebted nations that often require foreign aid stimulus and debt relief programs to remain economically viable. Over 34 sub-Saharan African countries fall under the IMF/WB poverty club of the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries. It is indeed despicable that a majority of these nations have political elite operating a kleptocracy and view politics as a means to become wealthy. Until Africa’s leaders stop indulging in consumerism and materialism, the masses will continue to flirt with poverty.

Africa Day May 25th

2011-05-25T20:11:00.000-07:00

Africa day May 25th 2011, not sure whether to celebrate, reflect or simply look ahead with HOPE?

Today we continue to celebrate Africa’s potential. However, it is imperative that we rise up to the challenge and turn that potential into success. The continent boasts large reserves of natural resources and human capital but we still don’t know where we are heading. There is still an abundance of obstacles and setbacks in our journey. We continue to long for leadership that can provide us with direction and purpose to transform seeds into fruit. Leadership should be a collective responsibility. We can lead from our families, communities, schools, governments and regional organizations. The time is NOW to do what we are meant to do.

© Kawuma

Uganda under Martial Law?

2011-05-14T13:05:00.000-07:00

The current state of democracy in the Republic of Uganda is not only appalling but also tragic. There is no doubt that Uganda is beginning to test-positive for the Martial law syndrome. The “duck test” always helps us weed through the ambiguity by asserting that “If it looks like a duck, swims like a duck, and quacks like a duck, then it probably is a duck.” If Uganda is not already under some form of martial law, then we are definitely half-way to that destination.

Since the beginning of the Walk to Work demonstrations, the symptoms and characteristics of martial law have been on exhibit. The influence of the civilian government has been minimized under the blanket of the military with each passing week. The Writ of Habeas Corpus has been suspended with the judicial branch of government run down and left with a severely adulterated copy of the constitution. Military police has been heavily armed and deployed to extinguish any demonstrating crowds at sensitive locations.

Opposition Leader Besigye on Entebbe Rd.

The presidential inauguration ceremony which is usually a moment of celebration and jubilation of majority rule was stained by heavy deployment of troops across the country. While President Museveni was making the oath of affirmation, thousands of Ugandans were waiting eagerly along Entebbe road for the return of opposition leader Kizza Besigye. The two had to momentarily share Entebbe road as one (Besigye) was making his way to Kampala while President Museveni was making his way to the inaugural after-party at the State House. The symbolism was a leader displaying his power and authority through military muscle while the opposition leader displayed his power through a disenfranchised populace.

Museveni Inauguration 1986

Museveni Inauguration 2011

It was inevitable to contrast the 2011 inauguration ceremony with that in 1986 where Museveni was the liberator promising to open the doors and windows of democracy and fundamental change. Museveni in the inaugural speech of 1986 chastised leaders who flourished on national wealth-- flying presidential jets while their citizens were cramping under the heavy burden of poverty and walking barefoot. Twenty five years later, the Museveni of 1986 was talking about the actions of the Museveni taking the presidential oath in 2011. The 4th inauguration ceremony cost the tax-payers $1.3 million and the irony was the fighter jet flyby during the ceremony that had been boosted by the recent purchase of additional fighter jets costing $750 million. With another estimated $340 million spent on his successful re-election—one cannot resist to dig into the storage boxes and seek enlightenment from the book authored by President Museveni entitled “What is Africa’s Problem?”

As opposition supporters clashed with police and were whipped, sprayed with pink-water, tear gassed, shot at with rubber and live bullets, it is inevitable to put the 25 years of NRM power in perspective. The display of security measures across Kampala to eradicate any type of “Tahrir square revolution and Museveni’s sharply pointed discourse towards the opposition indicates that things are going to get worse before they get better. Uganda is in a semi- martial law state with all signals pointing towards complete military control. The opposition has branded the NRM government as illegitimate and Museveni likewise didn’t mince any words in his inaugural speech making it clear that “disruptive schemes will be defeated.” With both parties holding their ground, Uganda should brace for a worst case scenario.

Truer words have never been spoken when we reflect on the fate of our country Uganda. The words of Cassius a nobleman in Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar”---- “The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, but in ourselves that we are underlings.” Cassius was attempting to persuade his friend Brutus that it was in the best interest of the masses that Julius Ceaser is stopped from becoming a dictator of Rome. “Brutus is aware of Caesar's intentions, and is torn between his love of his friend Caesar and his duty to the republic. Casius continues by reminding Brutus that Caesar is just a man, not a god, and that they are equal men to Caesar. They were all born equally free, and so why would they suddenly have to bow to another man?”

The words of Cassius are starting to resonate with Ugandans even those who were not supportive of the opposition. The sons and daughters of Uganda who have been beaten, intimidated, tortured, imprisoned and killed are our neighbors, co-workers, relatives and friends. Museveni and the NRM government has to understand that more Ugandans are starting to fully understand that it is not our fate that makes us underlings (lower in status or rank), but rather our weaknesses. Many have started to stand up to the military muscle of the state-- for the rights and pride that we want our country to reflect. Winston Churchill once stated that “Uganda is truly the Pearl of Africa” and we would like to keep it that way. Ugandans are very proud people and will not accept our leadership to tarnish the image of our country.

The only way parity can be restored is through an adult conversation. What is required is not a military but rather a political solution. The NRM government has been exposed as deficient in devising sound economic solutions and policy to fix the struggling small-economy of Uganda. The solution of “all muscle and no brains” unveiled recently to quell the demonstrations has not helped but rather hurt our nation. Our leaders have been too eager to fight an ideological battle instead of engaging in a philosophical battle. The consequence has been intoxication of the nation with an air of mistrust and any call for dialogue has been dead on arrival.

Ugandans could learn the tale of two wolves which an old Cherokee Indian told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people. He said, ‘My son, the battle is between two ‘wolves’ inside us all. One is Evil. It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego. The other is good. It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith.’ The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather: ‘Which wolf wins?’

The old Cherokee simply replied, ‘The one you feed.’

Which wolf are we going to feed fellow Ugandans?

© Kawuma

The implications of Walk to Work Demonstrations in Uganda

2011-05-05T06:56:00.001-07:00

As the weeks have gone by following the walk to work demonstrations, it is becoming clear that the procession has transformed into a post-election political contest between President Museveni and FDC leader Dr. Kizza Besigye. As Ugandans, it is imperative that we take advantage of the opportunity presented by the demonstrations to have a meaningful national conversation. There has been less coverage and debate around the issues that sparked the W2W demonstrations. It is our duty to elevate our discourse above the polarizing political battles and focus on issues that are affecting the lives of Ugandan people.

Secondly, there has been a lot of violence around the W2W demonstrations. Knowing our tainted political history, we cannot afford to perpetuate the cycle of violence. An eye for an eye will not build our nation, it will blind our nation. An eye for an eye will once again transform Uganda into a nation without a vision. Fighting fire with fire will leave our nation in ashes. This is not the time to react with emotion, it is the time to think and act with caution. This is not the time for violence; it is the time for dialogue.
© Kawuma

Walk to Work Demonstration in Uganda

2011-04-17T15:00:00.000-07:00

We should always cherish and promote the values of democracy and freedom of expression. Our nations have the opportunity to aspire for a full basket of democracy. Lets take advantage of all the low hanging fruit and sow the seeds of peace and prosperity that can be harvested by future generations.

Re: The Challenge Africa’s reformers face

2011-04-07T11:26:00.001-07:00

The events that have swept across northern Africa and the middle-east have re-ignited the debate and discussions across the globe on the state of human rights, democracy and humanitarian intervention. There has been finger pointing as questions surfaced to justify external intervention and the lack thereof in some of the conflicts. These debates usually came to a stalemate when assessing the acceptable balance between the good and bad deeds of a leader. Where do you draw the threshold or tipping point to justify intervention?

I recently came across an article “The Challenge Africa’s reformers face” written by Andrew Mwenda whose writings I often find insightful and intellectually stimulating. However, on this occasion I strongly disagree with the premise of Mwenda’s argument. The idea that democracy has failed to deliver the goods for Africa does not hold water because many of our nations have hardly had a glimpse at democracy. It is also not entirely true that the gospel of civil liberties and human rights has been mostly preached by the rich, educated and privileged that are out to consolidate their power. This article sets a dangerous precedent by hanging human rights advocates out to dry while failing to acknowledge Africa’s tainted political history. A stranger (reformer) has periodically knocked on our front-door and out of kindness we often welcomed them in our home. We offered the stranger (reformer) great hospitality and made them feel at home. In spite of such acts of trust and generosity, our houses have often been overrun and in some cases we have been robbed, assaulted or thrown out of our own houses. These are experiences that we cannot forget and will always have on the back of our minds.

My intention is not to challenge the merits of Mwenda’s assertion that Rwandese are currently empowered, engaged and welcome to return to their country to enjoy the Kagame era. I will let the Rwandese who ended up behind bars particularly during the recently held elections to speak for themselves. May be those are the "exceptions" and not the "rule" as the article suggests. However, I fundamentally disagree with the war waged on human rights groups and sections of the media. It is another case of branding a leader as the messiah sent to rescue Rwandese and spearheading a miraculous turn around—short of turning water into wine. Standing in Kagame’s way are the Scribes and Pharisees (Human rights advocates and media), whose false doctrine and hypocritical lives is likely to block the way for the people of Rwanda to enter the kingdom of eternity.

This argument is misguided at best and does not face the realities of our history. What is ignored is the litany of leaders on the continent of Africa who emerged as heroes, reformers and revolutionists only to transform into autocrats. The theme laid out by Mwenda is the blue-print of many of the long serving leaders we have witnessed in Africa. It is their bread and butter to rebuff human rights concerns and internal opposition as a catalyst to instability and an impediment to progress. Mugabe was in the early 1980s celebrated as a hero, liberator and a darling of Africa and went on to have a fairly successful first decade in power. However, he has inevitably morphed into the caricature of an African dictator at the expense of Zimbabwe. Sections of Ugandans would also argue that Museveni was an embodiment of optimism who assumed power in 1986 with an idealist and open-minded agenda to transform the nation into a functional democracy. Twenty five years later, another liberator morphs into a power hungry leader--fitting the stereotypical image of what we have come to expect of African leaders.

It is irresponsible to claim that human rights advocates are not looking out for the people but rather walking under the umbrella of vested interests as a result of lobbying from cronies.The argument in this article gets more disturbing with the assertion that “ To change politics from a contest over the privileges of a few to be a contest over service to the citizen, a genuine reformer will find it almost inevitable – or even necessary – to put restraints on many conventional platforms of democracy.” If we throw in the towel that human rights and individual liberties are not compatible with “genuine reform”, then we are likely to further legitimize the endemic abuse of power on the continent of Africa. Do our leaders have to be bad to do good?

The notion that the title of this article stated “Africa’s reformers” and not specifically the “Rwanda situation” leaves a lot of room for generalization which is not only a bridge too far but also agitates the scars and core of un-healed wounds on our continent. It is a fact that Kagame’s administration had to make a tough choice as they laid out a path to rebuild a post-genocide Rwanda. They took the radical step of implementing the “genocide ideology”—which makes it illegal to promote ethnic animosity or trivialize the genocide. Kagame has without a doubt been an authoritarian figure who never hesitates to ruffle any feathers. I will not dwell in the implications of such policies but it is inevitable to ask how people would respond to a poll inquiring about confidence in their government —in an environment that suffocates freedom of expression or even uttering the inconvenient truth.

“Human rights groups and sections of the media should not usurp the sovereignty of the people of Rwanda and claim to speak on their behalf. Let Rwandans speak for themselves – which they are already doing through regular elections and opinion polls by some of the world’s most respected polling agencies.”

I object vehemently to the above statement though I fully support the idea that Kagame is rooting out elements of corruption. As Africans we are always looking out for success stories. The economic achievements in Rwanda can be a model for other nations seeking a change in vision. However, it is a stretch to tie economic progress and an efficient system of social services to the entire package of human rights violations. Corrupt officials can be prosecuted through an effective and independent judicial system. Rwanda and the rest of Africa needs more of that to build a foundation where each citizen feels that there is a framework from which their individual rights can be upheld. Civil liberties can coexist with “genuine reform”. The idea that the polls demonstrate that Rwandese “feel free” does not justify why any leader should not be under the microscope. If the belief is that human rights are relative to the society and circumstances one lives in and are not a universal standard, then this might simply be an ideological misunderstanding. However, this philosophy should not be generalized over a set of polls in a nation ranked bottom ten in the world in freedom of press accompanying the likes of Yemen, Syria, Burma, North Korea and Eritrea.

Some scholars have made the case that the RPF had no choice but to restore sanity with an iron fist. Was there an alternative to restore calm between the Hutu and Tutsi tensions? Is it a sustainable approach to suppress peoples’ voices in order to heal ethnic tensions? Do the people of Rwanda have a right to express their opinions-- the same way we are right now-- to debate critical issues affecting their country and society without fear of crossing the line?

Following apartheid, amnesty, reintegration and reconciliation (AR2) occurred in a non-violent manner among sharply divided sections in South Africa--without implementing authoritative legislation. It is therefore foolhardy to suggest that the 'genocide ideology' was the most prudent path. One should not contain the contents of a boiling pot by simply welding a lid on top of the pan. South Africa has since the AR2 period held three peaceful elections with a smooth power transition and the country is on a sustainable course with less uncertainty about what the future holds when the current leader leaves and another steps in. Rwanda on the other hand is on a path of sustained economic growth but is as fragile as ever when one contemplates what the post-Kagame era will look like.

I agree with Mwenda that governments need to take a strong stance against individual interest and corrupt officials who are plundering the resources of their nations. This has been one of the major stumbling blocks of progress in our nations and I commend leaders who take the high-road and lay down the law. However, we should also understand that you can have a functional democracy and operate within the institutional frame work of the government to achieve the same results. Botswana has been a model nation for a longtime in Africa running efficient and democratic institutions that combine rule of law, sound fiscal policy, human rights, regular elections and economic development. Botswana is also regarded as one of the most effective countries in combating corruption. The Botswana model offers a more refined template than the Kagame approach where human rights, civil liberties and individual freedom are still a work in progress.

It is imperative that we don’t gloss over the importance of human rights and demand for civil liberties in any corner of Africa. The human rights advocates and media are not the Pharisees and Scribes but rather the disciples of our anointed leaders who will keep Rwanda and other nations in Africa on a successful path demanding the virtues of progress, peace and humanity long after Kagame and other leaders are gone.

© Kawuma

The clash between Universal Human Rights and Cultural Relativism

2011-04-01T15:39:00.000-07:00

PART 1

PART 2

© Kawuma

BIO-DISC, MIRACLE CURE OR A SCAM?

2011-03-15T21:06:00.000-07:00

During my escapade in Uganda, I received an invitation to meet a group of young entrepreneurs representing QuestNet, a company creating buzz in the heart of Kampala and other corners of Africa. Out of curiosity I agreed to attend and listen to what they had to say. On arrival, the room was at full capacity with youth eager to have a bite at the big-apple. The sessions were conducted in small groups, so we had to wait in line for over an hour until it was our turn to listen to the gospel. Eventually it was the moment of truth—and it didn’t take long to start digesting the sales pitch of QuestNet, a concise and convincing description of how the pyramid scheme works.

The formula laid out for enrolling in the program was to purchase one product offered by QuestNet. The popular products to purchase at that time were the Amezcua BioDisc and CHI Pendant. After the first purchase, one was free to taste the waters and become an independent salesman. The key was to master the ‘elevator pitch’ to persuade as many buyers as possible for these products. When you recruit a consumer, you are rewarded with a commission—and when those consumers recruit someone else, you get an additional commission. The more consumers there in your recruitment tree, the more apples fall from the tree into your basket. It is a business model based on individual effort and to be fair QuestNet offers a wide range of products. However, my main concern and source of outrage is the danger that arises from a model that offers incentives through persuading people to purchase products such as the BioDisc that have un-foreseen consequences on their healthcare.

Water turned into Water!

The BioDisc has become a big hit in West Africa and is currently flourishing in sub-Saharan Africa. A relative recently contacted me from Uganda asking if it was a good idea to discontinue their hypertension and diabetic medications and replace it with the BioDisc. This has become a common trend among consumers struggling to manage their health problems--often approached by recruiters who are aggressively trying to expand their pyramid for financial gains. The sales associates take advantage of gullible or often ignorant and poor consumers to make misguided purchases of products such as the BioDisc-- with unfounded claims that their lives will be transformed and ailments cured. It is the perfect storm as healthcare is transformed into a commodity.

In my meeting with the QuestNet sales associates, they recommended that I purchase a BioDisc. As a healthcare-professional, I insisted that I needed to conduct my own research on the Amezcua BioDisc rather than make a rushed and ill-informed decision. What I discovered was fascinating.There have been no clinical trials conducted to support the efficacy of the BioDisc. Modern medicine requires a randomized placebo controlled trial to prove if a product offers any benefits for the patients. With the lack of rigorous studies, efficacy has only been ascertained through claims and testimonials.

“The BioDisc is made of thirteen technically engineered natural minerals. Through a high heat nano-fusion process, the minerals are structurally bonded in the glass capsule. This results into a catalytic conversion of an energy form referred to as scalar energy. This energy can be transferred to any liquid renewing the natural molecular chains. This rejuvenated hydratious liquid”

Informed consent is a critical aspect of healthcare. One can only imagine the confused look in the eyes of a consumer in the village in sub-Saharan Africa when they hear technical lingo such as ‘nano-fusion’, ‘catalytic conversion’ and ‘scalar energy.’ Many consumers lack the literacy and intellectual curiosity to understand and investigate the concepts and methodology of creating a BioDisc to make an informed judgment before purchasing these products.

In addition to that, the price tag is beyond outrageous with one BioDisc running at roughly $600 to $700. This is costly for consumers in developing countries struggling to make ends meet and many living in extreme poverty. But who could argue with that price tag considering the pharmacological effects that the inventors claim the BioDisc can have. The testimonials on the product website are staggering and so are the indications listed. The inventors of the BioDisc claim that it energizes water or any other liquid to help treat migraines, stress, stroke, diabetes, insomnia, enhance the immune system, detoxify cells, increase shelf life of products among other benefits. It is a laundry list of indications that have no clinical proof. Since the product is marketed through word of mouth with profitable incentives based on the number of recruits, it is inevitable that consumers go beyond their financial abilities to acquire these products. The testimonials have the most damaging consequence as more people start to believe that any water that comes in contact with the BioDisc is a miracle cure for their chronic conditions.

It is imperative that people conduct adequate research before investing in expensive and un-proven forms of therapy. If you have relatives planning to purchase or use the BioDisc, educate them about this product and encourage them to continue taking their regular medications. Another critical issue to be addressed is the commoditization of health-care. Governments ought to put in place policies and regulations that protect the consumers from exploitation. Products that impact the health-care outcomes of patients should describe uses of the drug under appropriate testing and clinical trials. Finally, there should be strict regulations on drug marketing and direct consumer advertising. Counterfeit, sub-standard medicines and medical devices constitute a real and growing threat to public health.

©Kawuma

For more information on this product:
http://thebiodiscmiracle.nextlvl.net/index.htm

Dr Ian Lyons inventor of BioDisc promoting his product:

I wonder if those ladies could lift that man with one finger for a Million dollars each. That could be a good control trial to test if Scalar energy is the only factor at work in this demo.

Civilians massacred while the world continues to watch; is it time for a permanent United Nations Army?

2011-03-06T17:47:00.000-08:00

It is despicable that thousands of people continue to be massacred in Libya and there is no urgency from the international community and regional organizations to intervene. The ghost of 'strategic interests' is back to haunt us in yet another conflict. In this new world order, we have to rely on the mercy of super-powers to prevent bloodshed yet that only happens when they have something at stake. Gadhafi is waging war on the revolting masses and soaking the desert with the blood of his citizens whose intention was to conduct a peaceful protest. This is not the first and last time the world has watched from the comfortable seats of the Colosseum while genocide occurs.

The United Nations has once again been exposed as a sleeping giant failing on its promise to achieve international peace and security. It has resorted to tackling problems at the tip of the iceberg--- food aid, shelter and security for refugees and conducting body counts after the conflict is over. The UN also adopted a comprehensive arms embargo on the Libyan government, and ordered member states to freeze the assets of Gadhafi and his family including a travel ban on the regime a move many believe will have no major impact on the conflict at this stage. Libya was also suspended from the U.N. Human Rights Council for committing gross and systematic violations of human rights. One can only wonder how Libya was on such a committee in the first place considering the regime’s record on human rights violations.

How can we empower the United Nations to tackle the problems at the bottom of the iceberg? The solution is creation of an adequate rapid response structure. There has been no progress made on the front of creating an official UN army which would be a game changer. What we currently have are peacekeeping forces from member states that are often ineffective, poorly equipped, not well trained and under rules of engagement that prohibit use of force to restore peace. The consequence has been a list of failed missions and delayed response in numerous conflict nations such as Somalia and Sudan (Darfur).

Would the developed countries be willing to fund an army that might interfere with their national interests? What will be the command structure of a UN army? Would such an army be a threat to the sovereignty of nations? Would force be used inappropriately? There plenty of stumbling blocks and challenges towards establishing a UN Army. However, there is no doubt that having such a force would be critical towards reducing the number of casualties and preventing genocide, mass migration and the debilitating refugee crisis.

The crisis in Libya demonstrates that in spite of endless summons on spreading democracy by the United States, the Obama administration is tip toeing around the issue-- not to be viewed as meddling in the affairs of other sovereign nations. Whenever the rubber hits the road, the U.S government has recently reached out to the international community before taking action-- a historically slow and inefficient process of dealing with international conflicts.

Having a permanent UN army under the umbrella of the United Nations would yield swift and decisive action than the status quo. The United States is facing huge budget deficits and is likely to be more conservative in future foreign military interventions. China which is ascending into a super-power position has not shown interest or leadership in foreign military ventures. The only choice people in conflict areas are left with is to run from their homelands into refugee camps or seek asylum in other nations.

Until we have a functional international body that can react effectively to crisis situations, we will remain spectators while innocent lives are lost. Gaddafi’s son Saif put it clearly that “If we do not agree today on reforms, we will not be mourning 84 people, but thousands of deaths, and rivers of blood will run through Libya," Blood is currently flowing on the streets of Libya and no one is coming to their rescue.

© Kawuma

The Ballot no longer a Symbol of Democracy

2011-02-28T12:51:00.000-08:00

On the afternoon of May 17th 1957, Martin Luther King Jr standing at the steps of the Lincoln memorial delivered a message against injustice and appealed for the voting rights of African Americans in the “Give us the Ballot” speech.

‘Our most urgent request to the President of the United States and every member of Congress is to give us the right to vote. Give us the ballot and we will no longer have to worry the federal government about our basic rights. Give us the ballot and we will no longer plead to the federal government for passage of an anti-lynching law; we will by the power of our vote write the law on the statute books of the South and bring an end to the dastardly acts of the hooded perpetrators of violence. Give us the ballot and we will transform the salient misdeeds of bloodthirsty mobs into the calculated good deeds of orderly citizens..’------MLK

Decades later, we have the ballot in our hands but still feel an empty void. There is a feeling of helplessness and hopelessness. Where is the ballot that Dr. King was fighting for? Where is the ballot that was supposed to end bloodshed in the world and resolve conflict in Africa? What happens to the ballot that we cast in that box?

Democracy is the term frequently used to describe the institutional fabric from which diverse and conflicting ideologies can co-exist through equal representation. The underlying principle is rooted in the idea that each individual is an integral piece of a strong and complete nation. Included in this apparatus are checks and balances established by constitutional bench marks such as the separation of powers to prevent concentration or domination of power by one individual or branch of government. In a democratic government, sovereign power resides in the body of citizens who elect officers to represent them.

The ballot is a powerful symbol and center-piece of a democracy. It empowers the people and offers the template from which they independently choose the destiny of their society. With every vote cast, there is always the belief that ‘all animals are equal.’ It’s the mouth piece of the trumpet through which we blow air to produce a beautiful sound. The sound of democracy and freedom that rings across generations.

A victory through majority vote is the fundamental event that cements the foundation and legitimacy of any leader. To curb the rising number of dictatorships and autocratic regimes, the western governments have over the years pushed for elections in many African nations. With the mounting pressure, many autocrats have attempted to hold periodic elections-- though it was evident that none of these leaders had any intention of delivering election concession speeches. Losing or accepting defeat was never an option and the solution was to wage a war against the ballot.

This war has been waged on two fronts. Minimize voter influence and/or ignore voter choice. The goal was attaining the desired outcome irrespective of the people’s choice at the polls. In a few instances where the incumbents lost elections, instead of a concession speech, they declared victory and chaos ensued. Without significant external intervention, the autocrats have made the world believe that power-sharing is the only alternative democratic platform in conflict-ridden and divided societies.

A string of power sharing governments has emerged. What was once a life-saving and temporary mechanism to stop conflict and bloodshed as institutions of democracy were nurtured-- has become in itself the institution of democracy. Power-sharing in the past was instrumental in conflict resolution in Burundi, Sierra Leone, Rwanda, Nigeria, Liberia and other nations before a path towards democracy was initiated. However, the 2008 power-sharing deals between Robert Mugabe and Morgan Tsvangirai in Zimbabwe followed by Kibaki and Odinga in Kenya were a substitute for the voices of the people on the ballot. A similar situation is building up in Ivory Coast where Laurent Gbagbo is holding onto power after losing the election to Alassane Ouattara.

Other leaders have mastered the art of swinging elections in their favor accounting for the frequent land-slide victories. The autocratic regimes often put in place a hostile environment not conducive for healthy opposition manifested by arrest without charges, intimidation, indefinitely detaining prisoners and limited freedom of assembly. Such conditions were prevalent in the recently fallen regimes that employed Emergency law to sweep out any pockets of resistance. These conditions have crippled the opposition and many simply resort to whispering their discontent and others stay out of politics or show loyalty towards the regime rather than risk their livelihoods.

There is a common trend among nations under autocratic regimes that large sections of the population live below the poverty margin while the elite class live lavishly. National resources and wealth are often used as bait for the hungry and poverty stricken masses. These exploitative financial mechanisms make it impossible to have an equal playing field in establishing a robust competitive opposition to these regimes. The impact of financial resources on elections is not only evident in the developing world. Democracy as a whole is under-assault by the invisible arm of financial power in all corners of the globe. Ballots are increasingly bought rather than fairly won on principle. The rules of the game are rapidly changing and the ballot that once meant to our civil liberties that “all animals are equal,” now reveals that—“all animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.”
© Kawuma

The law of scarcity destroying the legacy of Africa’s revolutionary leaders.

2011-02-19T14:03:00.000-08:00

“The Sun. It can only be appreciated by its absence. The longer the days of rain, the more the sun is craved. But too many hot days and the sun overwhelms. Learn to keep yourself obscure and make people demand you in return.” -------Robert Green

The ‘law of scarcity’ is often used by marketing companies to manipulate our innate ability or unconscious desire to acquire or purchase a product that is scarce. This phenomenon has been the key to the rise of the most successful people in the world but it can also result into the downfall of our heroes. The key to this concept is to make one’s product or skill-set rare and difficult to find and suddenly its value will rise. Humans have been wired to respond to this mind-game. We often see stampedes, fighting and injury as scores of people fight through the doors of shopping centers to get their hands on products advertised as ‘on sale but in limited quantities.’ Many line up outside shopping malls in the middle of the night during holiday sales. Please call immediately to avoid missing out on a once in a lifetime opportunity. It is a powerful marketing tool and TV ads will usually mention that there only a few items left in stock to turn on that switch in the mind of a consumer.

“Too much circulation makes the price go down: The more you are seen and heard from, the more common you appear. If you are already established in a group, temporary withdrawal from it will make you more talked about, even more admired. You must learn when to leave. Create value through scarcity.”

The law of scarcity is also prevalent in the political arena. When many of our leaders first arrived on the national scene, there was a sense of excitement and patriotism that unified the diverse sections of their respective nations. A journey through the list of the long serving leaders in Africa highlights the fact that many were viewed as revolutionary heroes.

Mugabe’s rise to power in the1970s following the Zimbabwe liberation war marked him as a hero fighting for the rights and freedom of the people of Zimbabwe. He won the general election in 1980 and became Prime minister.

Museveni as head of the National Resistance Army came to power following a turbulent history of wars and blood-shed . In a period of 24 years since independence, Uganda was home to seven military coupes, eight presidencies and a loss of over 400,000 lives. Museveni was viewed as a revolutionary leader and symbol for change to restore Uganda’s greatness.

Ben Ali through a military coup in 1987 replaced Bourguiba after declaring him mentally unfit to govern. Though a rather un-known figure at the time, he came with the promise of reform to propel Tunisia towards economic prosperity, stability, better standards of living and democracy . He organized the first multi-candidate election in 1999 which he won by 99% of the vote.

Mubarak having been elected as vice chairman of the ruling party in Egypt was an automatic pick in the succession line following the assassination of Anwar Sadat in 1981. He was a very popular figure and also won the majority vote by a staggering 98%. Mubarak was a strong ally of the western world and was viewed in many circles as the anchor of stability in the Middle East. In his first decade in power, he was instrumental in igniting a stronger economy and advocating for affordable housing and health-care.

“Use absence to create respect and esteem. If presence diminishes fame, absence augments it. A man who when absent is regarded as a lion becomes when present something common and ridiculous. Talents lose their luster if we become too familiar with them, for the outer shell of the mind is more readily seen than its rich inner kernel. Even the outstanding genius makes use of retirement so that men may honor him and so that the yearning aroused by his absence may cause him to be esteemed”---- Baltasar Gracian

The list of leaders in Africa who were once outright heroes but have over the years transformed into villains is long and still growing. There is no doubt that some of them have continued to win the popularity contest during the national elections. Museveni is the most recent candidate who has once again overwhelmed the opposition even after 24 years in power. In spite of this success, the ballot does not defy the 16th Law of Power. “Use absence to increase respect and honor.” No matter how successful a leader might be, the longer they stay, the more likely for the masses to get restless. Mubarak and Ben Ali exemplify the consequences of twenty four hours of sunshine. They never gave their people a chance to appreciate their contributions—and instead left behind a legacy many are eager to forget. The law of scarcity reminds us that it is wise for a leader to leave on their own terms before the audience grows tired.
© Kawuma

Addiction to Power

2011-02-06T20:40:00.000-08:00

Power is the most dangerous addictive drug. It has profound symptoms that many of our leaders are under the influence and need treatment. It is beyond belief that a leader can risk the fate of a nation to hold onto power. The events in Egypt highlight the extent of this disease. Mubarak is not the only leader under the influence of power addiction. We have also witnessed another stand-off in Ivory Coast where election results have proved to be of no significance. Laurent Gbagbo still refuses to step down after losing the recent election. Many of our leaders are willing to hold onto power at all cost. The Egyptian economy is in shambles, lives have been lost, others have been injured and many are staying in their homes scared. Loyal protestors on the other hand have made a stand that Mubarak has to leave after 30 years in power. We have witnessed days of protesting and international pressure but Mubarak is not moved.

He claims that without him the country would go into chaos—though ironically he is the root cause of the current chaos. This arrogance is evident among many of our leaders. There is a perception that without them, all hell will break lose. According to our leaders, leadership is no longer about serving the people. Leadership has become a lifestyle and a business venture where national resources are plundered. It has become an institution passed on from father to son. The seeds of good leadership often land on rock and fail to germinate. Leadership is a responsibility and not an entitlement. It is a position of privilege to make peoples’ lives better. Our nations are starving for good leadership. Generations have been born, lived and died under the same leadership. Dreams have failed to turn into reality. Voices have drowned in a vacuum between the leaders and the people. We want to quench our thirst at the oasis of democracy. Why is it always a mirage?
© Kawuma

Why do we keep voting for authoritarian regimes or dictators?

2011-02-04T12:10:00.000-08:00

The simple explanation for this phenomenon is that elections are always rigged by authoritarian regimes. Such an overly simplistic conclusion would be very misleading. It is a fact that on several occasions elections have been marred by a lack of level playing field with restricted political space for contesting parties and voter intimidation. However, we should not overlook the reality that some of the authoritarian rulers command a large following in sections of the population. How do such leaders manage to stay in power without frequent up-risings from the oppressed population? Authoritarianism is an abusive relationship between a leader and his subjects. Why do abused individuals remain inexplicably loyal to their master/abuser? Lets for instance look at abusive relationships that often involve verbal, physical, emotional or sexual abuse. Have you ever wondered why someone would stay with a spouse or partner who has committed repeated acts of abuse/betrayal? Understanding the reasons why adults choose to remain in such toxic relationships could shed some light on why we keep lining up behind the same leaders holding our nations hostage.

One of the practical reasons often un-earthed include economic dependence. Some partners feel they cannot leave an abusive spouse because they need someone to provide for their wellbeing and that of their children. Economic stability and security for the family forces many to rationalize staying as the right thing to do. This rationale also prevails in the minds of people under authoritarian regimes. Most of the long-serving leaders assumed power when nations were in a state of chaos and restored order, created a sense of hope, economic prosperity and security for the population. This pillar has been critical for many authoritarian leaders to vehemently remind the masses how different things could have been. What emanates is a spurious sense of attachment to leaders who at times seem immortal. In spite of the neglect and desecration of their lives, many remain motivated to put up with the devil they know.

There is also a tendency for abuse to occur periodically/cyclically. When this manifests, the abuser will likely apologize or show remorse and promises that it will not happen again. During cyclical abuse the victim will likely receive some form of compensation or gift to win back their love and trust. This again creates a false period where the victim feels like they are valued by the spouse. However, in most abusive relationships, this honeymoon period will not last long. Subsequent episodes of abuse will occur followed by another make-up period. This phenomenon occurs in many authoritarian regimes. There many cases where the leadership establishment showers the masses with gifts, adulation and promises of reform. Some of the democratically elected autocrats use the campaign period to make up for the abuse and neglect inflicted on the masses. Promises are usually made to improve infrastructure, educate the population, create jobs and provide better social services. This creates a false sense of hope among the masses that they are valued citizens and that their vote counts. The notion that the abuse might be intermittent also creates a perception that it is overall a good relationship with isolated bad-incidents. These are usually rationalized as one-time events that can occur in any other situation. We convince ourselves that our leaders are good and like any other president, they can occasionally make mistakes.

The longer we live under authoritarian regimes, the more likely we start developing low-self esteem. Our minds become paralyzed and we start believing that what we have is just good enough. We fail to create a sense of belief and imagination in our mind-set that we can excel and climb to greater heights as a society and as nation states. We get anxious and nervous about what might happen if we walk out on our spouses or our leaders and face a new and free un-known world. Those who are abused and damaged worry that they might end up with an even more abusive partner or leader. Once the abuser or authoritarian regime figures out our weakness, they reinforce the notion that we are better off with them. That in fact the alternative is un-imaginable. The continuous cycle-of abuse, make-up and forgiveness legitimizes the actions of the abuser over a long time. Many have given up challenging the status quo in our nations. The abuse and neglect has often been allowed to proceed from one election cycle to another. Some nations have faced major economic decline and neglect to the point where livelihoods of the common man are facing destruction.

This is the point in the relationship or the life of a nation that the price of silence becomes too high. The events in Egypt highlight a similar trend where the masses have been pushed beyond their threshold. It is mindboggling to explain how un-popular a president can become after winning the previous election by a land-slide. Hosni Mubarak won the 2005 presidential election with 88.5% of the vote. The closest challenger Ayman Nur only had a paltry 7%. How do you explain the nation turning against such a popular man? Was it simply an abusive relationship that went too far? Were people simply too scared/intimidated to choose the alternative at the ballot box?

Uganda is also at the cross-roads of democratic autocracy. President Museveni has been in power since 1986. He continues to win the popularity contest each election cycle though the opposition voices are getting louder. The Museveni doctrine is rooted in the notion that he is the best option Ugandans have. He purposely makes a claim that the opposition is there to destabilize and possibly return the nation to the chaos that he fought to eliminate. As the Museveni era continues, the identity of Ugandans is becoming intertwined with his presence to the point that many currently fear for the country when this relationship ends. Recent polls indicate that he will comfortably win the coming election. Ugandans have been in an unhealthy relationship for so long that many don’t know what it’s like to be in a healthy one. The coming election in Uganda highlights the notion that for many Ugandans, their fear of leaving Museveni is greater than their desire for an alternative or even better circumstance. We have chosen as a nation to stay in these circumstances—but this comes at a high cost. There is growing anger and resentment and political tension building up among several factions of the population. Ugandans particularly the youth feel they are stranded in a very un-healthy relationship.

Why do we vote against our interests? Why do we keep autocrats in power? What are we afraid of? When are we going to find the courage to overcome our fear? At what point will the price of silence be too much for our nations? The cost of silence is betrayal-the betrayal of one's convictions, one's values, one's beliefs, one's very self.
"Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.”Martin Luther King Jr.
© Kawuma

Political Realism trumped by the voices of the people in the Egyptian revolution

2011-01-30T23:38:00.000-08:00

International relations have always been dominated by the theory of ‘political realism’. Those who believe otherwise are often disappointed because frankly it is everyone for themselves in a world that seems to grow apples on orange trees. If you try to wear a different lens from realism, you would either practically be a lost or confused soul in this world. Rumsfeld simplifies the maze with his quote that ‘There are known knowns; there are things we know we know. We also know there are known unknowns; that is to say we know there are some things we do not know. But there are also unknown unknowns – the ones we don't know we don't know.' The relationship between the United States and Egypt or in general some of the western states with autocratic regimes is complex. The general consensus is that great powers like the United States focus on interests rather than ideology. This reality has led critics to accuse the U.S of violating the commandment, ‘Thou shalt not have it both ways.’ Realism is the concept in international relations that prioritizes national interest and security, rather than ideals, social reconstructions, or ethics.

The last decade redefined or affirmed America’s foreign mission to spread democracy in the world. This freedom crusade was a major element of the Bush doctrine that further reinforced the notion of promoting democratic regime change with the available option through force, if necessary. America’s commitment to democracy and free institutions is a message that continuously flows from the leadership establishment to every corner of the world and in any speech pertaining to international relations. This doctrine has provided false hope to many waiting for the winds of freedom. The realist perspective would clarify that this is another case of national interests disguised as a moral prerogative. The demonstration in Egypt called the western world’s bluff particularly America towards their commitment to spreading democracy. There was some hesitation from the United States government to respond to the events in Egypt. The two day flip in foreign policy from supporting a strong ally President Hosni Mubarak ( a known-known) to delicately support the masses protesting on the streets ( the known-unknowns) is an indication of ideology clashing with interest.

Understanding the way nation states act on the international stage is critical in dissecting this dilemma. Egyptian protestors on the streets of Cairo have been asking why the American government is supporting an authoritarian ruler such as Mubarak. Some in other corners of the world have started questioning the commitment of the west towards promoting democracy and human-rights around the globe? Are there exceptions to the rule? Is regional stability and friendship immunity for autocrats to retain power? There is certainly growing anger and mistrust of the freedom crusade from international actors. As political realism suggests, the international stage has no presiding government to legislate a code of conduct or justice. The United Nations is a sleeping giant and as we have seen during numerous international conflicts, the interventions occur after the fact. Without a key and overriding global government—the international scene is characterized by anarchy. Treaties and regional organizations create some sense of order and stability. Fear and hostility are often inevitable. However, common interests can offer a critical bond between nation states. America’s strong partnership with Israel meant Egypt was always a critical piece of the puzzle towards the ever elusive peace in the middle-east.

Realism reminds us that nations will do whatever it takes to satisfy their self-interest. Morality is often non-existent beyond the state actor’s boundaries. On several occasions we have seen foreign aid and even political lifeline guaranteed to repressive regimes by western powers. These favors are always in exchange for identified interests, material or ideal. In the philosophy of realism, states are the key actors and other actors are often characterized to be of less significance. The power of the people is often overlooked. Revolutions expose the vulnerability of state actors. Public disaffection with the leadership hierarchy can reach a tipping point as evident in Tunisia and Egypt—this has the potential to create havoc in the dynamics of realism. Once the masses become fearless there is nothing else-but the fall of the regime. The public rebuke of the State of Egypt forced the government of the United States to rethink their foreign relations with an authoritarian regime. A collision course is therefore possible between angry masses of a repressive nation state with a global hegemony. The reality that the protesting masses (known-unknowns) without an established model of a state can influence a global power to change course-- is a critical lesson learnt from the quagmire in North Africa.

There has always been a conflict between politics and morals. Millions of people live under repressive regimes that deny them basic human-rights and plunder national resources. As the world becomes more connected, coalitions between democratic and repressive regimes are inevitable. However, a line has to be drawn between morality and expediency. Global state leaders have the bargaining chips to demand transparency and better governance from non-democratic and autocratic state actors. Thus true politics can never take a step without rendering homage to morality. Though politics by itself is a difficult art, its union with morality is no art at all, for this union cuts the knot which politics could not untie when they were in conflict. The rights of men must be held sacred, however great a sacrifice….. All politics must bend its knee before the right. ---Immanuel Kant.
© Kawuma

North Africans turn the tables on authoritarian regimes in Tunisia and Egypt, could this phenomenon trickle down to the rest of Africa?

2011-01-27T15:10:00.000-08:00

“Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed.” Martin Luther King, Jr. These words sum up the events that have sent shock waves across North Africa first in Tunisia and currently Egypt. There is growing discontent and tension among the masses about the authoritarian regimes that have become a staple to this region. People are risking their lives to make their voices heard and demonstrating to the leadership hierarchy that it is high-time they remembered that these are nations of the people for the people by the people.

The demonstrations in Tunisia forced President Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali to finally step down on January 14th and dissolve his government and parliament following 23 years in power. Few weeks later the people of Egypt inspired by the events in Tunisia also woke up from their slumber to demand their civil liberties from President Hosni Mubarak who has been president for 29 years. The Egyptian police is fighting tooth and nail to contain the protesters—but the bird is already outside the cage. The question some are asking today is who is next? One has to wonder how comfortably Muammar Abu Minyar al-Gaddafi who has been in power for 41 years in Libya next door neighbor to Tunisia is sleeping. How about Mugabe, Museveni, Nguesso, Biya, Dos Santos?

I have written on several occasions about the unprecedented number of long-serving leaders on the continent of Africa. The term Afro-colonialism was coined to represent this quagmire. “Afro-colonialism is a phenomenon in which an African nation is held hostage by an African leadership establishment. It is an act of control, domination, exploitation and oppression of the masses.” There is no doubt that the people across Africa in many of these nations occupied by Afro-colonialists are getting tired of being colonized by their own. Civil liberties have been undermined, human rights have been violated, freedom of speech has been suppressed, free-media is a fore-gone conclusion, the economic situation in many of these nations is dire and hence the lid could no longer sit on the pot of boiling water. The request is simple, fix it or we will force your hand. The oppressed are demanding their freedom and will continue to knock on the door until their leaders open.

The big question is whether any of the regime changes will result in long lasting democracy—or will it be another cycle of authoritarian regimes coming to power. The concern of some of the western powers as far as the current situation in Egypt is instability in the Mediterranean region. This is a legitimate concern considering the role Egypt has been playing in the middle-eastern peace process. However, it is imperative that the west does not extinguish the will of the people by standing in the corner with authoritarian regimes. The western world needs to recognize and respect the significance and symbolism of these demonstrations. The masses did not abruptly choose to protest at this juncture. It has been a gradual build up of discontent with legitimate causes. People want solutions from their government and not excuses or explanations. Many of these leaders have been in power for decades and have little to show for it.

It might be too early to tell the long-term implication of the wave of demonstrations in North-Africa, however it is an indication that people can rally as a nation and demand change. This also sends a strong signal to the rest of the long-serving African leadership establishment to get their act together otherwise they could be next in line. The people have spoken and demand their independence from Afro-colonialism. Change does not roll in on the wheels of inevitability, but comes through continuous struggle. And so we must straighten our backs and work for our freedom. A man can't ride you unless your back is bent. MLK, Jr.
© Kawuma

Elections don’t mean a thing, if they aint got the win; the paradox of a ballot box in Africa

2011-01-04T16:46:00.000-08:00

It is mind boggling how self interest can drive a leader to risk the fate of a nation. Millions walk into the voting booth with enthusiasm and hope. Putting the failures of their government and leaders behind them and looking ahead in the horizon with faith. Hoping to make it to the flickering light at the end of the tunnel. They match, cheer, sing and hum the patriotic tunes as they vote for the candidate who might this time walk them through the mud and swampy thicket. The leader they hope will clear the path to the land of their dreams and not the graves of their fore-fathers. One who would hold the ladder steady while they climb to greater heights. For some it is the only time they can raise their voices. There is a feeling of empowerment, the freshness of a new day, turning the page to a new chapter—feeling wanted and recognized by their government.
Abuzz with optimism and pride, they cast the vote into the ballot box—a box filled with darkness and mystery— uncertainty awaits. A dark box where what goes in might not come out-- a box that swallows hopes and dreams. A box that they used to long for—but now approach with fear , anger and hate. They start wondering who is inside that box. Is it indeed a box or a dark hole in which they cast their future. A deep hole that swallows their dreams. A hole in which they sow the seeds of hope-- but out sprouts the weeds that kill the crop.
Elections are becoming a rest stop along the president-for- life journey for many of our leaders. They pull over to take a leak, stretch out their legs and jump right back in the driver’s seat to take the wheel. Should we just flip the coin since no one wants to concede power? Or better yet roll the dice since everyone wants the piece of the pie. We used to fear the bullet and now we are equally scared of the ballot. It is no longer a game—we can’t simply call shotgun. The stakes are high and passengers have the right to choose who is behind the wheel and who sits near the wheel.

Mugabe vs. Tsvangirai

Gbagbo vs. Outtara

Behind the ballot box is a mystery room. A room which continues to rob our brothers and sisters of their civil liberties. The little room where elections are now decided. The negotiation room. Many wait with eagerness—with ears glued to the radios and puffy tired eyes staring at the television sets. As reality sinks in, some choose to flee their homes in fear. What happened to that ballot, they wonder?

Museveni Vs. Besigye

Mugabe vs. Tsvangirai came down to a power-sharing deal—and the two foes continue to fight for the wheel-- without regard for passenger safety in the back seat. With every intersection, they hold on firmly as the drivers swerve recklessly. Gbagbo vs. Outtara has left Ivory Coast on the brink of civil war. Thousands have fled and others wait in fear---once again in Africa we have one car with two drivers behind the wheel. Why should we bleed after casting the ballot? With Elections around the corner in my motherland Uganda, one can only pray that history does not repeat itself. Museveni vs. Besigye has been a battle building steam the last decade. Will the ballots settle it this time or are we heading back to the mystery room behind the ballot box?
©Kawuma

African Youth Leadership a path towards progress

2010-11-08T19:13:00.000-08:00

THE FOURTH HERITAGE (BOOK REVIEW)

2010-10-21T14:54:00.000-07:00

The fourth Heritage written by Emmanuel Kirunda is a must read for Africans from any corner of the continent and those who strive to find real solutions to Africa’s demise. It is a common sentiment that Africa is a continent full of potential. Other’s have referred to mother Africa as a sleeping giant. Kirunda offers a framework we can follow to lift Africa and her nations out of dormancy. Events in Uganda are used as the case study but the themes of this philosophy focusing on integrating tribal, religious and the colonial heritage reach out to all Africans. Our nations have a shared history and have fought on the same front-line for decades without making the much needed ground to compete on the global stage. Reading this book extricates some of the core-myths that continue to cast our nations in a backward-state of mind.

Kirunda sets out with a mission to help us understand the fundamental weaknesses of our society and then offers a platform we need to re-define who we are. This platform is characterize as a ‘heri’— every advanced society has had a ‘heri’ which offered a springboard from traditional society. Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime. What Ugandans and Africans need is a ‘heri’ which will provide a ray of hope towards helping ourselves and advancing our societies rather than continue to rely on others.

If we (Ugandans and other Africans) are to change the course we are on, the transformation has to come from within. External intervention as the author emphasizes only focuses on visible problems such as war, poverty, disease, corruption, human rights violations, refugees e.t.c which is only the tip of the iceberg. Often ignored are the invisible problems which the author defines as a lack of a heri (or domination of our heritage by religious and European heri). The fourth heritage is characterized as a paradigm shift that would address the problem from the foot of the ice-berg and in the long-run the author argues that the visible problems will also be solved. A fourth heritage would kill two birds with one stone.

The narrative about the author's childhood struggles from humble beginnings and his journey to the present day is a testament to the transformative power of knowledge. His trials and tribulations as exhibited in the traditional/tribal, spiritual and scientific growth highlight the benefit of extracting ideas from each of our heritage and defining our own heri. This focus is the core foundation of the argument that as a people, we have to evolve. The heri— is characterized by the author as a development inducing phenomenon. He compares the impact of a ‘heri’ to a ‘gene’ and a ‘meme’. A gene propagating biological entities and a meme propagating cultural entities such as values and behavior from one person to another through imitation. A heri on the other hand brings commonality to a group of people to engage in activities or a creative mindset that brings progress, advancement or prosperity to that group. The author highlights the impact of a ‘heri’ in several societies. The Americans having a ‘heri’ rooted in personal freedom and equality for each individual. The German ‘heri’ rooted in the Protestant work ethic. Japanese ‘heri’ rooted in work perfection and finally the ‘heri’ for Scientists based on skepticism and the desire for proof through experiments.

The author is making the case that our nation(s) lack a ‘heri’ to exploit the creative energy and potential of the people. We have so far failed to find a universal platform. Our indigenous or tribal heritage--the core of our being has been overwhelmed by forces from religion and western/European heritage. We are in a state of cultural confusion with numerous competing and conflicting ideologies. This accounts towards the invisible problems at the foot of the iceberg—a disease whose symptoms are wars rooted in tribalism and religion, poverty, tribal conflict and the social turmoil facing many African nations today. The author suggests coming up with a fourth heritage that eliminates the chaos and shackles holding Ugandans and other Africans from realizing their productive energy and achieving results for their intellectual prowess.

Is it too late to turn the tide? Are we realistic in pursuing the fourth heritage? Is the fourth heritage already in play?

In my article “The Loss of the African State of Mind” I stated the need for Africa to change course regarding our education system. Education is critical in shaping the minds of young Africans and I believe it can be a tool towards installing the fourth heritage. My critic of the current education system basing on Uganda is the notion that it fails to address the realities of Ugandan people. There is little emphasis on the indigenous concepts and Kirunda in The fourth Heritage raises this point--- with the case of Ugandan students being punished for speaking their native languages at school. I personally received my share of spanking for speaking vernacular. It is such practices that have given rise to a generation of Africans who can neither speak their native languages nor grasp the critical features of their culture. Education is an area which the author could explore more when it comes to laying a foundation for our ‘heri’. For instance an education system with the concept of a fourth heritage would still offer courses that explore universal knowledge such as science and mathematics but should include a heavy dose of subjects that equip students with the tools to explore and optimize resources in their immediate surroundings.

There are numerous barriers towards achieving the ‘heri’ defined by the author. First, is the perception that the western or European heritage is vastly superior to our indigenous ways. Success in our society has been tied entirely to Africans grasping the western ways of life. Our social, political and economic framework has been deeply infiltrated by the dominant western and religious heritage. Speaking the most fluent English will for instance elevate one’s level of achievement and social status. Such perceptions make it difficult to have a practical conversation about a paradigm shift. Is it too late to turn the tide? How do you repair a system that has too many holes?

Another barrier we have is the ever growing clash between and within the indigenous/tribal heritage and the western/European heritage. The political climate in Uganda has been volatile with internal power struggles between the central government and the traditional kingdoms particularly the Buganda Kingdom.The question is whether the Fourth Heritage would bring an end to this tag of war or will these clashes be a stumbling block towards its attainment. The traditional governments had been completely abolished in the 1970s and a similar event could have a widespread impact on the cultural and traditional dynamics in our society.These clashes have not only been inter-heritage but we have also witnessed catastrophic intra-heritage clashes and genocide. It is a complex maze to navigate however a pathway towards a Fourth Heritage and defining our ‘heri’ would have to address the political ramifications.

Overall the philosophy of rebooting the system to find a path that will harness the potential of our society to rise to greater heights is quintessential.The question we will continue to ask is what our ‘heri’ should be?

Want a better UNAA? Speak now or forever hold your peace

2010-10-05T21:41:00.000-07:00

It is becoming a challenge for Ugandans in the Diaspora to get acquainted with the Uganda North America Association (UNAA) and the numerous organizations that continue to spring out every year such as the Ugandan Diaspora and American Development Association (UADA). Even more intriguing is the notion that we demand better from Ugandan politicians and government yet we can’t break bread with each other in the Diaspora. We want a government that is inclusive, accountable and respects all citizens but we have collectively exhibited deficiencies in these attributes. Likewise we continue to call for unity yet our solution in the Diaspora during adversity is to break from the status quo and make our way to the Sea of Galilee to pick a new set of disciples. One would hope that some of the civility and democracy we have been exposed to-- the years we have lived abroad would rub off but all has been in vain. We fly like bees into flowers filled with nectar and come out with neither nectar nor pollen. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that there is hardly a trace of honey flowing through our community.

Throughout my travels and interactions with Ugandans in North America this past year, I witnessed a season of expostulation. Poor leadership, lack of accountability, rigged elections make the list of a myriad of problems that sections of the community believed had extirpated the integrity of UNAA. As a neutral voice, I always probed into these allegations in search of substantial evidence. Their repartee ranged from quick math with a ballpark figure UNAA collects from annual convention fees and donations versus the expenditure---or a blank stare either implying that I was moonstruck to ask such a question or were not well informed about the state and history of the organization.

The situation escalated following the 2009 UNAA elections in Chicago-- where sections of the Diaspora claimed that the elections were rigged—courtesy of full planes flying into Chicago with Ugandans financed by the incumbent NRM government. From my assessment, these events led to the birth of UADA. This is not the first time there has been a split of allegiances from disgruntled UNAA members. However, in this instance rival factions posed a major threat to the future and capacity of UNAA. With that in mind, steps were taken to conduct some house cleaning-- starting with amending the UNAA Constitution.

The UNAA Constitutional Review Committee (CRC)

The convention in DC highlighted steps UNAA took to address these concerns—particularly the issue of political fairness, accountability and membership which had a blueprint on the UNAA elections. The UNAA Constitutional Review Committee (CRC) was established to Identify and fix the kinks in the current UNAA constitution.The CRC also extended their cause to UNAA's membership to submit recommendations and suggestions in addition to conducting a discussion forum on the proposed amendments during the UNAA convention. Considering the firestorm I had witnesses among sections of UNAA members, I expected a vibrant discussion and possibly a full house as we made an attempt to re-shape the future of the organization.

It was flabbergasting having only a handful of UNAA members in the conference room to voice their concerns and provide ideas to the CRC. However, as I walked towards my hotel room following the session, I ran into sections of Ugandans with worthy and thought-provoking ideas discussing the future of UNAA in the hall ways. Perplexing to say the least, considering there was a medium put in place to channel these ideas but many lacked the audacity to step up and voice their concerns. It is baffling to see crowds standing around the vending booths whilst having mediocre attendance in events that shape the future of our organization. Why are people not engaged in the process when it matters most? This is the foundation of our problems. A quandary for UNAA. We love to talk and complain but fail to follow through when it counts. We criticize the final product but seldom participate in the process. We like to eat cake, but push the snooze button when it is time to bake. This is why I make this request to Ugandans in the Diaspora and members of UNAA ---a message we usually hear before the wedding vows are read, "If any Ugandan in the Diaspora knows how to make UNAA a more representative and functional organization, speak, participate, engage when it counts or forever hold your peace."

Ugandans in the Diaspora attend the annual conventions for numerous reasons. Some come to have a good-time, network, conduct business and others attend for political engagement. UNAA is a non-partisan organization and we ought to highlight that element at all times and in all activities to make sure politics does not tear the Diaspora apart. Creating rival factions is not an ideal solution for the future of our community. We are simply building additional houses using the same bricks with similar vulnerable structures. Reinforcing and improving what we already have should be the ideal path towards a transparent and productive UNAA. The constitution amendments devised by the CRC present an opportunity for UNAA to turn a page and perform at a higher level. UNAA reflects the character of its members and if we are not vigilant and involved then we are likely to head into deeper waters. The apple does not fall far from the tree. If our community members continue to hide under the cloak of anonymity with the tools of progress, then we shouldn’t complain following a bad harvest. “Whatsoever a man soweth, that he shall also reap.”

Afro-Colonialism

2010-09-25T05:29:00.000-07:00

Many in Africa have always felt that there was a wave of external forces slowing down our nations from climbing higher on the ladder of progress. However, we tend to ignore our leadership record which has over the years resulted into an unprecedented number of long serving leaders. Afro-colonialism is an all-encompassing term describing this state of affairs.

“Afro-colonialism is a phenomenon in which an African nation is held hostage by an African leadership establishment. It is an act of control, domination, exploitation and oppression of the masses.”----Kawuma

Some of Africa’s longest serving presidents:
• Colonel Muammar Gaddafi: September 1, 1969 (Libya)
• President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo: August 3, 1979 (Equatorial Guinea)
• President Jose Eduardo dos Santos: September 10, 1979 (Angola)
• President Robert Mugabe: March 4, 1980 (Zimbabwe)
• President Hosni Mubarak: October 14, 1981 (Egypt)
• President Paul Biya: November 6, 1982 (Cameroon)
• President Lansana Conte: April 3, 1984 (Guinea)
• President Yoweri Museveni: January 29, 1986 (Uganda)
• President Blaise Compaore: October 15, 1987 (Burkina Faso)
• President Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali: November 7, 1987 (Tunisia)
• President Omar Hassan Ahmad al-Bashir: June 30, 1989 (Sudan)
• President Idriss Deby: December 2, 1990 (Chad)
• Prime Minister Meles Zenawi: May 28, 1991 (Ethiopia)
• President Isaias Afewerki: May 29, 1991 (Eritrea)
• President Denis Sassou Nguesso, 1979-1992 and 1997-present (Republic of Congo)

©Kawuma

The Role Of Culture

2010-09-22T05:15:00.001-07:00

The loss of the ‘African State of Mind’ through Education

2010-08-09T10:31:00.001-07:00

Education has for long been touted as the gateway for Africa from the vagaries of a poverty laden fate. The importance of education is highlighted by the second of the eight Millennium Development Goals (MDG) agreed upon by the United Nations (UN). "Ensure that, by 2015, children everywhere, boys and girls alike, will be able to complete a full course of primary schooling." This is not the first time we have heard about the indispensable nature of education and it's declaration as a fundamental human right. Indeed Education for All (EFA) was launched in 1990 with international agencies such as UNESCO and the World Bank among others spearheading the effort to educate all citizens in every society. Such efforts have materialized in some developing countries in fact there has been some form of universal primary education system established in Burundi, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania and Uganda. This initiative has resulted into a dramatic surge in primary school enrollment.

While the excitement often revolves around the millions of students being enrolled, it is critical that we look beyond the statistics and conduct a result oriented evaluation. Providing any form of food to a famine stricken region is critical—however, providing a balanced diet is a result oriented approach that will diminish the occurrence of malnourishment and disease. A child can go to school and not get an education-- resulting in malnourishment of the mind. Education has opened doors and improved the livelihoods of many Africans. Unfortunately, the continent as a whole has failed to break away from the shackles of poverty. Considering the resources that have been invested towards this cause—it is legitimate to argue that the overall expectations have not been met. What went wrong?

The failure of education to maneuver Africa over the hump has mostly been a result of two weaknesses, 'what we are teaching and how we are teaching.' Many who have attained an African education will note that not only is it a contest for memorizing and regurgitating facts and figures, the curriculum is also primarily made up of western based material and concepts. Eurocentric education is the term often used though it doesn't do justice to this phenomenon in today's world. It is worth noting that western education is not bad—in fact basic science and mathematics have a universal application. Where we go wrong is the applied curriculum which is often too distant from the realities of the African people. I went through a similar education in the early years of my life and had a strong background in the curriculum taught in Uganda's schools. On a selfish stand point, the system was beneficial for me because I have spent half of my life studying and working in the western world. However, most of the Africans who remain in the motherland do not benefit from concepts that they will never experience as well as lack the capacity and resources to put into application.

This is not an argument against teaching a western style education and neither am I making a case for Afro-centrism. Tea always tastes sweet with some sugar in it, but too much sugar can be bad for you. If our intention is to equip a population with the knowledge base that will enable them to optimize the resources and tools at their disposal, it is imperative that we focus education on our immediate surroundings. Many will argue that the world has changed, with globalization and the technological age—the world is rapidly becoming a global village. However, resources continue to be skewed and are not trickling down as fast to make the technological breakthrough and shared knowledge beneficial for the developing countries. We have millions of un-employed highly qualified and educated Africans sitting in limbo from lack of job opportunities. Our immediate complaint is dissatisfaction with our governments for lack of job creation. However the fundamental failure and root cause of this quagmire is teaching the wrong material and an education system that often fails to foster independent thinking.

I can still recite some of the material I learnt in school about the Prairies of North America and the Rhinelands of Europe. Towards the end of secondary school, I was an expert on how a plantation on the Prairies operated but had no clue about the state of agriculture in my country. We sat through numerous lectures on how combine harvesters operated, agricultural techniques that allowed maximization of production amid harsh winters among other modern agricultural practices. I have been on road trips in North America and driving through the Prairie States strikes home this message. I found myself more knowledgeable from my education background about these farms than some of my friends who were local residents. The same applies to other disciplines such as history and literature--where I can only remember Chinua Achebe's "Things Fall Apart" as the only novel we covered in class by an African author. The foundation of the an African education is so flawed that by the time students attend institutions of higher learning---the stage has already been set for disaster. It is high time we emphasized techniques and practices that will benefit students when they return home to make a difference in their livelihoods.

This phenomenon could have larger implications than immediate failure to turn knowledge into production on the local scale. The concept of brain-drain is often talked about as accounting to the diminishing returns of free universal primary education funded by many African governments. If you are teaching a student how to operate a plantation in the western world, they will try to find a job in the west to apply that knowledge. Likewise if we are teaching nuclear physics in our universities, it should not come as a surprise that students in this field are opting out—to search for greener pastures where this knowledge and expertise can be put to good use. Why should an African with a Doctorate in nuclear physics hang around Burundi for the rest of his life? Why should a Kenyan studying astronomy aspire to work in Nairobi instead of securing a position with NASA? We are teaching our children the skills of engineering and have no cars for them to fix. You reap what you sow.

The African continent is becoming a production line for experts who have no clue how to solve African problems. 'Educate your people so that we can employ them' is a flawed policy. We are even importing mosquito nets from nations that have no mosquitoes. How on earth do we expect to jump-start our economies and raise the poverty threshold in our nations—when we lack the creative mindset and expertise to solve local problems. We have lived for thousands of years on our lands and should focus on becoming experts in our affairs. We can cherry pick what we need from the western school of thought while spending the majority of the curriculum developing the 'African State of Mind.' It is imperative that we keep an eye on the global dynamics, while reigniting the flame of local expertise.
© Kawuma

Should Uganda and Burundi withdraw troops from Somalia?

2010-07-19T08:27:00.001-07:00

The aftermath of the 7/11 suicide bombers that struck two targets in Kampala, Uganda killing 74 people and leaving scores injured has left sections of Ugandans calling for the immediate withdrawal of our troops from Somalia. Uganda's opposition, the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party, urged President Yoweri Museveni to pull his peacekeepers out and said it planned a withdrawal if it won elections in 2011. "There is no peace to keep in Somalia and Uganda has no strategic interest there," said the party's spokesman, Wafula Oguttu. "We're just sacrificing our children for nothing." To decipher this quagmire, I will refrain from borrowing the George W Bush mantra of—"if we withdraw the troops, the terrorists win." However, on similar grounds, it is imperative that policy whether foreign or domestic is separated from polls. The fallacy argumentum ad numeram should never dictate policy.

Over the years some scholars have blamed the West for Africa's demise. This partly led to the notion that "African solutions to Africa's problems" was the way forward. This sentiment has not often translated into action with Somalia being the ideal case study. The once promising Organization of African Union (OAU)—failed to deal with a slew of Africa's problems including civil wars, genocide, disease and refugee crisis. It was indeed a sleeping giant with the founding principles of state sovereignty and non-interference literally rendering it ineffective. After realizing that suitors for the OAU were not forthcoming, African leaders decided to implement a cosmetic transformation by putting lipstick on the OAU and renaming it the African Union (AU). For the last decade we have had an old-donkey with lipstick lying in the stables. The African leadership seems content that as long as it has some hay, water and the occasional graze she can stay in the stall. This attitude has allowed nations such as Somalia to deteriorate and become the quintessential failed State.

Somalia became an independent state in 1960 uniting both the British and Italian controlled territories to form the Somali republic. Like many African nations, inter-clan/tribal conflicts emerged as each player wanted a piece of the pie during the post-colonial period. This harsh political climate made it difficult to establish a functional and representative government. General Siad Barre assumed power in 1970 through a coup d'état opening the flood gates of civil conflict. Clan factions, religious groups and war-lords have since turned on each other leading to widespread violence and bloodshed. International efforts through the United Nations and the U.S government to bring peace were futile. Black Hawk Down, a graphic blockbuster brings back memories of the 19 U.S soldiers and foreign emissaries who lost their lives in the streets battles of Mogadishu. Images of corpses being dragged through the streets of Mogadishu prompted lingering international intervention and subsequently the withdrawal of US and UN forces.

As the conflict further escalated, it became evident that there was no military solution. The dynamics on the ground pointed towards a combination of ideological and theological battles between clan rivalries in addition to Islamic fundamentalists infusing a global agenda to the conflict. This is a classical scenario of a struggle to control resources and as such establish influence over rival factions. The diplomatic approach had its own shortcomings with a series of reconciliation proposals failing miserably to forge a compromise between the rival groups. The National Commission for Reconciliations and Property Settlement (NCRPS) established in 2001 failed to get all factions on board. Further efforts to establish a representative government at a 2005 conference in Nairobi—through the Transitional Federal Government (TFG) didn't sit well with all the participants either. The opponents formed the Union of Islamic Courts currently known as the Supreme Islamic Council of Somalia (SICS) which has since been battling the TFG.

The AU backed by a new constitution which gives them the right to intervene in member states to prevent crimes against humanity sent peace keepers to Somalia in 2007. The African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) ---mission statement is to "conduct a Peace Support Operation in Somalia to stabilize the security situation, including the take over from Ethiopian Forces, and to create a safe and secure environment in preparation for the transition to the UN." AMISOM has faced significant challenges as faction groups particularly the Al-Shabaab and Hizb al-Islam have been on the offensive against the Transitional Federal Government (TFG). To create a safe environment, the AU forces stood their ground and defended the TFG stronghold. This stand-off angered the Al Shabaab who threatened to attack the capitals of Burundi and Uganda—in retaliation for their contribution to the AMISOM cause. They followed through with their threat and claimed responsibility for the 7/11 bombings in Kampala—Al Shabaab leader Ahmed Abdi Godane promised further attacks on Ugandan and Burundi soil.

Somalia's conflict is at a very tender stage which makes it critical that the right decision is made by both Uganda and Burundi governments. This mission is a litmus test for the African Union's ability to promote peace. First, it is critical that other African nations follow through with their pledge to send the remainder of the required troops to complete the mission. Of the eight thousand troops promised, only 2,700 Ugandans and 2,550 Burundians have been deployed. For a nation whose coast guard is run by pirates and large chunks of the nation still under the control of militants, it would be foolhardy to suggest that the AMISOM is on the right track. The mission was to create an ideal environment for the U.N to take-over however; the terrorist attack on Uganda is a game changer and threatens not only the lives of the people of Uganda and Burundi but rather the stability of the East African region and future AU missions.

The AU cannot succumb to cowardly acts of terrorists—and in no way should such attacks be grounds for phasing out the mission. Al-Shabaab militants demonstrated that a full-scale mission is required to restore peace and stability in Somalia. African leaders need to act more decisively in times of conflict rather than wait for international intervention. President Museveni hit the nail on the head by offering more Ugandan troops to AMISOM to hunt down Al-Shabaab and other nations should follow suit. The increasing influence and evolution of the extremist global jihad movement in the horn of Africa is not a local problem but rather a threat to the continent as a whole. Withdrawal would be catastrophic for the continent of Africa and a victory for Islamic fundamentalists who resort to cowardly acts of terror.

Finally, we need to understand that there millions of peace loving Somalis. Individual civil rights should never be violated in the name of terrorism. Somalis and Eritreans have already been subjected to a witch-hunt in Uganda by the mob following the 7/11 attacks. Recognizing the potential for reprisals, President Museveni cautioned Ugandans not to collectively blame Somalis for the bombing. Some have argued that there is no need to put the safety of innocent civilians in jeopardy by getting involved in Somali clan faction politics. However, we have to understand that having a failed state in our vicinity destabilizes the East African region. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHRC) another 315,000 people are likely to flee their homes in Somalia in 2010. Some 1.4 million people are displaced inside Somalia while more than half a million Somalis have sought refuge in nearby countries, putting enormous pressure on refugee camps and host nations. Having a peaceful and stable Somalia is therefore in the best interest of all neighboring countries and withdrawing AMISOM troops should not be an option.

© Kawuma

The ugly face of terrorism brings a tragic ending to the first World cup hosted in Africa

2010-07-12T15:05:00.001-07:00

It was supposed to be a night of jubilation across Africa, even without an African team in the final. South Africa hosted a great World Cup and silenced the critics who claimed that Africa did not have the ability or resources to host such a major tournament. Millions tuned in around the world to watch the closing ceremony of the greatest game in the world. The buzzing of vuvuzelas tore through the skies for one last time at this tournament. A night which usually ends with spectators flying their flags high in celebration of the victory instead sent shock waves across Africa and the Diaspora. Three bombs exploded, one struck an Ethiopian restaurant and two exploded at a rugby center. So far there have been 74 reported fatalities and many others left the scene with injuries. Of the casualties twenty eight are Ugandan, one Irish, one Indian, one American and 11 Ethiopian. What could have been a night of joy for many soccer fans in Uganda ended in mourning and desperation to determine the fate of friends and loved ones.

The initial word from the investigation pointed in the direction of Al-Shabaab a Somali based terrorist organization. This group had threatened staging attacks in Uganda and other African Nations that are contributing troops to the peace keeping effort in Somalia. These allegations proved significant when the Somali Islamist militant movement claimed responsibility for these attacks. "And the best of men have promised and they have delivered," said an Arabic statement issued by Al-Shabaab's press office and obtained by CNN. "Blessed and exalted among men -- (taking) full responsibility. ...We wage war against the 6,000 collaborators; they have received their response----May Allah accept these martyrs who carried out the blessed operation and exploded themselves in the middle of the infidels,"

Africa continues to be one of the most troubled continents in the world and it is saddening to add terrorism to our list of problems. This attack is different from previous attacks on African soil such as the 1998 bombing at the U.S Embassy in Kenya. The Al-Shabaab are currently directly targeting Africans. It is a very sad day when Africans inflict fear on fellow Africans. We have had our share of civil wars and genocide but terrorism is a different beast all together. Acts of terror instill fear in the masses and completely transform the state of mind of a Nation. Those of us who have lived in America and witnessed events since the Sept 11^th attack on the World Trade Center understand how one event can change the livelihood of a people. America has used and invested a significant amount of recourses to fight terrorism. How are African Nations going to contain and respond to acts of terrorism? Our resources and intelligence are on a limited budget, the borders are more-less open, smuggling of items in and outside nations is rampant and some government don't even have full control of their nations. This leaves our citizens vulnerable and caged in a corner.

As Africans we have to speak out in a unified voice and fight on a united front against these knuckleheads who intend to bring terrorism to the motherland. Africans with all our problems are still a vibrant people who enjoy having a good time. The last thing we need is additional anxiety while sipping our Tusker, Waragi, Bell Lager and enjoying the beautiful game. Indiscriminate killing of innocent civilians without knowing their identities and calling it a blessed operation against infidels is a despicable act of cowardice and hatred.

This event should be a wakeup call for the African Union (AU) to urgently invest resources towards failed States such as Somalia. Failed states are becoming a hotbed for terrorists and radicalized groups that can pose major security threats. The days of Africans not being targets of terrorism are over. Initiatives towards strengthening Somalia should be on top of the AU agenda. Critical at this juncture is a need to re-examine the mission of the current 6,000 African Union peacekeepers in Somalia. In order to have a functional Somali government, the mission of the AU troops ought to be expanded not only towards humanitarian and peacekeeping but engage in combat operations to flush these groups out of Somalia. This would require a surge in AU troops and additional contribution from other African countries. Somalia will remain on the course of a failed State until the AU offers this government a fighting chance and an adequate umbrella to establish control over the entire territory. If no action is taken, Al-Shabaab and pirates will continue to roam and cause havoc and instability in Africa.

We are all deeply saddened by the loss of life of innocent civilians and our condolences go out to the people of Uganda and the families that have lost their loved ones.

© Kawuma

Uganda, Rwanda, African countries must embrace dissidence and freedom of the press

2010-05-03T11:09:00.001-07:00

The Ugandan government has expressed anger at recent remarks made by the United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton about the state of the up-coming 2011 presidential elections. In the report issued to the US Congress, Clinton was concerned about police harassment of opposition candidates and heightened stifling of Uganda's media. The report further questioned the independence of Uganda's Electoral Commission—citing government influence and exclusion of key stake holders during the appointment process.

These comments irked several government officials—who dismissed the report as another case of—banter from Western governments. Those who closely follow African presidential elections will find that Clinton's report is simply stating the obvious. To brush off these revelation is absurd; and rejects taking time to reflect on the state of affairs on the ground. Unfortunately, this conundrum is not only evident in Uganda, but can be seen across the continent as different African nations gear up for elections. Politics is a dirty game but denial falls on the wrong side of the recovery process. Elections in the western world have their fair share of smear campaigns and fact-twisting—however they still hold true to the principles of freedom of speech and a media free from the shackles of the government.

Rwanda is currently considered one of the fastest growing economies in Africa—a quick reverse of fortunes considering the genocide and turmoil which had engulfed this small nation. President Kagame has been credited for this success but with the country's August re-election around the corner, questions continue to loom over the fairness and treatment of Kagame's political opponents. There have been numerous arrests and interrogation of journalists and opposition leaders on grounds of violating the so called "genocide ideology." [pdf ]

Dehumanizing behavior, hate speech and stirring up ill feelings among the masses are forbidden fruits in Rwanda. The government believes that by outlawing hateful speech, they can create a generational change. However, critics of the ruling Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) believe this ideology simply targets, discredits and discourages any meaningful opposition in this election. Kagame's social engineering has left many frustrated leaving a dark stain on this young democracy.

While it is legitimate to prevent another genocide from happening, the timing of these arrests coinciding with the presidential elections is a very familiar story in many corners of Africa where dictatorships are born. To sow the seeds of democracy, by establishing the core principles of freedom of speech and a free media, is a better path towards erasing past memories than it is to nurture a new generation of youth through fear and intimidation as Kagame is doing.

Flip the script to Uganda—and you are likely to run into a similar state of affairs. The run up to Uganda's presidential elections has also been clouded by a myriad of controversies. There is no doubt that Museveni like Kagame has had the opposition on their heels particularly during the months leading to the election. Kizza Besigye his fierce rival and president of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) political party was jailed and accused of rape, terrorism and treason prior to the 2005 elections. Highlighting the architect of these accusations, the Criminal Investigation Department director at that time Elizabeth Kuteesa informed the court in 2006 during the trial that they (CID) were only acting on Museveni's orders.

Flash forward to 2010, one year away from another presidential election, the CID once again at the urging of President Museveni summoned Kizza Besigye over allegations he made that the government leased Lake Kyoga to a South African company. It is also no secret that it is forbidden in Uganda for the press to say anything critical of President Museveni. The tense relations between the government and the Buganda Kingdom escalated when the Royal burial grounds were burned to the ground. Museveni shut down the rumor mills by daring anyone in the press to accuse the government for playing a part in this inferno. The previous year the government also made a tough stance by shutting down CBS radio accusing its presenters of breaching minimum broadcasting standards and inciting riots in Kampala which claimed 27 lives.

Curtailed freedom of expression across the continent is painful to watch especially after experiencing the political theater in the West.

It is shocking, for instance, to watch as Americans take to the streets on Capitol Hill calling to question Obama's citizenship; or likening him Hitler and the devil as they accuse him of creating death panels; or as they decry his speeches as indoctrination, a fascist, a socialist and communist who is out to destroy America. All this rhetoric happens a few blocks from the White House where the President resides. Africa, that is freedom of speech. One cannot help but wonder how long any African president would stomach the rhetoric of conservative political commentators such as Rush Limbaugh and Glenn Beck. However, like many civilized nations and functional democracies, politicians counter through debating the issues and expressing their side of the story rather than intimidation and violation of civil liberties. It is imperative to keep a lid on potential catalysts for violence or genocide, however, we need to maintain a healthy balance to avoid undermining our fragile democracies. Criminalizing the media and opposition politicians on grounds of rhetoric damaging to national security, stability and unity as Museveni often defends his actions is the basis for the allegations made in the Clinton report.

African governments need to learn that criticism from other governments and even from their own citizens is a very important step towards nation building. Clinton's report which criticizes Uganda's preparedness to hold a fair election is not an indication that Western countries are out to get us. It should be a catalyst for change so that Ugandans can hold a fair and peaceful election.

Disagreeing on issues, platforms and political ideologies does not necessarily mean insinuation of hate or violence. It is normal for people to disagree; and a right to do it passionately. In fact through disagreement we are often able to find a middle ground and co-exist in harmony. Disagreement and debate is a critical medium for innovation. Oftentimes we don't hate our leaders or our governments; we just want them to give us the freedom to speak our minds. People have something to say and if you don't like it then you are not the leaders we need. Governments are for the people, as a result must listen to their citizens and not shut them or lock them up.

African nations should treat the symptoms of unfair political climates if they want to avoid the diagnosis. Uganda, Rwanda and other African nations are dressed in a pimp costume but don't want to be called pimps. The solution then is simple: change you attire. And whatever your new attire is, please keep it elegant, formal and classy.

© Kawuma

Not In Our Backyard

2010-04-26T20:35:00.001-07:00

It was a bizarre morning, waking up and staring through the blinds to recognize that the topic of discussion and debate among many Ugandans in the blogosphere was the sovereign right to possess nuclear weapons. For a moment I thought Museveni was about to drag our small nation into the current nuclear stand-off between western powers and Iran. After digging through the details it came to my attention that Iran's president, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad had just concluded a two day State visit to Uganda. The local media outlets outlined a number of issues that brought President Ahmadinejad to Uganda and these included: Investment in agriculture and related factories, infrastructure development, vocational training, health, energy/mineral development and tourism and culture. Conspiracy theorists had their own take on the matter —branding the visit as a strategic move by the Iranian President to woo a nation (Uganda) which is currently a member of the Security Council (SC). They argue that he was attempting to build alliances to evade tougher sanctions from the SC. The Ugandan President delicately dealt with this visit by denouncing nuclear weapons in his speech while at the same time emphasizing the right for nations to develop and use nuclear energy peacefully. President Ahmadinejad had no kind-words and took advantage of this stage to spill the rhetoric denouncing the double standards and hostility of the United States and United Kingdom against Iranians.

Every individual is entitled to their opinion, but this state visit--and the aftermath discourse left me wondering whether we are asking the right questions. All global citizens have a right to participate in this debate since nuclear arms pose a danger of vaporizing human civilization and possibly knocking us back into the Stone Age. However, while participating in this debate—it is critical that we focus on nuclear disarmament rather that the right to possess nuclear weapons. The United States and UK can be blamed for double standards--- however, President Obama has made great steps in uniting the nuclear powers and building a foundation towards a nuclear free world. We are still far from this goal; in fact the United States and Russia still have stock piles with the capacity to turn this globe into a mushroom cloud. This is the reason why any talk of nukes has to be taken seriously. Ahmadinejad brought his rhetoric in our back-yard and the spill off effect was evident in the media outlets and among the masses. The visiting President went further and stated that his country and Uganda are "ready to invade countries that undermine independence and sovereignty" of other nations. "We shall stand firmly against all these atrocities." he said. It was mission accomplished for Ahmadinejad with many voicing their support for Iran and how unfairly they have been treated.

This rhetoric is un-acceptable and harmful to our vulnerable continent. Inciting invasion, war and violence in lands that have seen their fare share of bloodshed is a catalyst for disaster and makes me further question the motive of this state visit. Ahmadinejad has the right to defend his country but he does not voice the opinion of every African. It is our responsibility to dissect these provocative and threatening words--separating the fact from fiction. Through asking the right questions, we can rise above harmful rhetoric not only from leaders like Ahmadinejad but also some of our local politicians. Political maturity among the masses in Africa has to be reflected in our daily discourse. We need to stand up and challenge the status quo—and send a message that "Not In Our backyard."
© Kawuma

THE OOPS! HYPOTHESIS

2010-03-25T20:03:00.000-07:00

The OOPS! hypothesis states that “ a society that frequently reacts to an event without establishing a framework to prevent such events from happening will continue to dwell in mediocrity and thus fail to make significant headway towards innovation and advancement.” This hypothesis has its premise in the notion that “prevention is the best cure” and that “experience is the best teacher.” Great coaches prepare their teams by intensively studying the opponent. Following this process they establish a framework and game plan to eliminate the opponent’s strength and take advantage of their weaknesses. The victorious team at the end of the day tends to be the one with the fewest “I didn’t see that coming” moments—or as I classify them Wow! or Oops! moments.

The Kasubi inferno in Uganda is the most recent example supporting the OOPS! Hypothesis. Kasubi tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage site is symbolic for the Buganda kingdom. Originally a palace, it was converted into a royal burial site in 1884. In the main building ( Muzibu Azaala Mpanga) were the remains of four of the previous Kabakas (Kings) as well as valuable royal regalia and other paraphernalia. Muzibu Azaala Mpanga boasted some of the finest Buganda architecture using organic materials mainly thatch, wood and reeds. A fire recently broke out and totally destroyed the main building at the Kasubi tombs. This inferno led to a cascade of chaos, outrage and isolated incidents of violence from the loyal subjects with accusation that the government was the culprit. A period of mourning was declared by the leadership hierarchy in the Kingdom.

I will not be focusing on the politics and the blame game behind the scenes, but rather the basis of my hypothesis. First, it is important to recognize that five years ago there was a smaller fire at one of the thatched-roof buildings at the site. Secondly, from the description of the architecture and materials used to construct the tombs, one can quickly conclude that the structure was vulnerable to destruction in case of a fire. With this in mind it is important to raise some questions about the level of emergency planning and preparedness at this royal site. It is a fact that emergency planning and training directly influence the outcome of an emergency situation. In this case there was total destruction of property and a review of the police reports reveals severe negligence and lack of sound pre-fire plans. Uganda has had a series of fires in recent years destroying property and lives, mostly involving boarding schools. Hence, the capabilities and efficiency of the public fire-fighting crew leaves a lot to be desired.

It is imperative that a thorough investigation is conducted to un-earth the cause of the fire. However, it is just as critical to ask what could have been done to prevent this event. I have had discussions with colleagues and challenged them to avoid looking at the glass as half empty but also as half full. Counter arguments were that we are still a backward nation and therefore lack the infrastructure and resources to combat disasters. I don’t buy this argument and believe that there simply appears to be a lack of initiative. As a people we need to overcome a stuck state of mind. Our society often finds satisfaction in the ordinary rather than striving for the extra-ordinary. The Buganda Kingdom has to be held accountable for lacking the initiative to protect the Kasubi mausoleum. Like-wise boarding schools were lives were lost and property damaged from fire have to also be held accountable. Disaster awareness through emergency and prevention plans should be a necessity and not a luxury.

As a concerned citizen, it is disheartening that our nation and people have failed to learn from disastrous events. Often times we cry over spilt milk—which is the case happening in Uganda, but unfortunately this doesn’t put the milk back in the pail. OOPS! Is not the term we should get accustomed to. Foresight is a habit we ought to instill in our society. Forewarned is forearmed.

© Kawuma Daniel Busuulwa

Is Africa playing victim at the Climate talks in Copenhagen?

2009-12-18T09:49:00.001-08:00

A resolution drafted this fall by the African Union (AU) staged a united front to deliver a loud and clear message at the recent climate talks in Copenhagen. The argument emanates from the premise that Africa has contributed less to the green house gas emissions, yet is scarred by the effects of global warming. Droughts, floods and rising sea levels have bedeviled the continent causing wide-spread hunger, disease and loss of life. The price tag in the resolution was $65 billion a year—to buy the signature of the combative and controversial Meles Zenawi representing the 52 members of the AU. These events could have even inspired the great author, Charles Dickens whose young protagonists Oliver Twist stood before his master and asked—'Please, sir, I want some more.' Africa once again begging, with Meles Zenawi playing Oliver Twist.

It is always disheartening when events of such global significance highlight our vulnerability as a continent. Demands by the developing countries to use the Kyoto protocol as the corner stone for climate change fell on deaf ears. The Sarcozy-Zenawi Copenhagen Accord angered many--citing lack of commitment from the developed world to set strong targets for cutting emission and sufficient compensation for the developing countries. Further negotiations involving Meles Zenawi slicing the compensation threshold has left more frustrated. It has been a tense week to say the least—but surprising nonetheless is the notion that compensation for the developing countries has been center stage of this debate rather than addressing the forces propelling global warming.

Is this our new Trump card? Why is Africa continuing to cherish the 'Oliver Twist' moment? As a continent we need to start showing seriousness in purpose and action that matches the realities of our struggles. Global warming has certainly affected Africa and though we are not the biggest polluters we need a more aggressive and thoughtful approach. Cash compensation will not solve our long-term problems simply because we have a history of having hollow pockets. Frankly speaking, this is not free cash—it comes at a profound cost— diminishing our voice and freedom of choice. It is critical to remember that nations on the path of development gradually ascend higher on the ladder of energy consumption and pollution. As we strive to industrialize our nations, jump start our economies— and accommodate rapid population growth, our energy demands and emissions will only continue to soar. We will certainly remain rooted at the bottom of the pit, as the billions offered end up in the pockets of corrupt officials-- leaving us with only slippery walls to climb.

African nations and leadership need to get serious if they intend to be taken seriously. We need to start asking the tough questions. Scientists in the field of global warming have stated that the course we are on is irreversible. We can only slow down the train. The 45% reduction in emission many are trying to implement for the developed nations—which will realistically never be attained tells the whole story. Have you thought about the other 55%? In other wards we are still continuing to pollute the globe and the only choice left is asking for a deadline extension. Therefore, we ought to ask our leaders—what they plan to do in the meantime for our people after the Copenhagen talks. Will this be another conference we forget about—and five years later wonder--what happened to the billions we were offered? There has been plenty of talk about Africa suffering most from the effects of global warming—a point I alluded to earlier. Do we really think the developed world owes us anything for global warming? Why can't we for once sit down and figure out how we can prepare our nations for disasters. Developed countries such as United States and Japan are situated in areas prone to disasters—such as earth quakes, Tsunamis and Tornados which historically wiped out populations. These nations invest heavily in disaster awareness schemes and infrastructure to minimize damage and death toll. What have we done lately in Africa to address droughts, famine, disease, flooding and overall disaster awareness?

The recent show down in Copenhagen confirmed my belief that Africa at the moment has not made any initiative to chip in. We continue to play victim and beg rather than contribute through innovation, research and creativity. Africans need to start baking their own bread—and stop feeding off the crumbs. 'A man cannot ride your back unless it is bent'-- MLK. Africa appeared in Copenhagen for the climate talks with a bent back—and now we are angered because the developing countries continue to ride on our backs. 'Whenever men and women straighten their back, they are going somewhere' -- MLK. When are we going to straighten our backs Africa?

© Kawuma

Time for Africa to talk Sex and Sexuality

2009-12-13T15:22:00.001-08:00

Sex has always been a taboo word in Africa—and most of us were raised in families where sex and sexuality was a self taught subject. It has been stated that you can only take a horse to the river; you cannot force it to drink. In this case many of us were told the river never existed and once we stumbled on it, we hardly knew how to drink like a Tiger. HIV/AIDS was a reality check—simply put, it was similar to the American Indians being wiped out by infectious diseases after contact with Europeans. There immune system was not equipped with the antibodies to stem off the foreign pathogens and neither was African society equipped with the straight talk needed to create awareness and impede the spread of HIV/AIDS. The list of shame includes leaders such as Mbeki who denied the existence of AIDS and his fellow country man Jacob Zuma-- while being tried on charges of raping an HIV-positive family friend mentioned in his testimony that he took a shower after sex to lower the risk of AIDS.

Four years ago, I wrote an article about the need for Africans to tackle our last Taboo—of openly talking about sex. This was following events in which the Uganda Media Council banned a women's group from featuring the Play entitled 'Vagina Monologues'— on grounds that the play promoted illegal, unnatural sexual acts, homosexuality and prostitution. Once again Uganda is in the news for the wrong reasons and drawing worldwide criticism for proposed legislation to impose a death penalty for gay Ugandans—and up to seven years in jail for family and friends for failing to report individuals who display gay-like behavior. As an African, I feel concerned about the state of human rights and the incompetence of the leadership hierarchy. However, it is not a surprise because whenever you see the symptoms, there is likely a disease. Uganda's President Museveni has targeted the gay community with tough rhetoric over the years. In some of his speeches, he continues to urge youth to reject advances from Europe, suggesting that 'European homosexuals' had launched a recruitment drive in Africa. With the crusade of politicians and church clergy openly critical of homosexuality, it was only a matter of time before the rhetoric turned into legislation.

Is this a Ugandan problem, an African problem or even a global problem? It is no secret that other corners of Africa have had their own clashes with the gay community. Male-male sex is already a criminal offense in over 31 Sub-Saharan countries. In Senegal nine gay members of an HIV awareness group received a nine year sentence for indecent conduct and unnatural acts earlier this year—a sentence which was later over-turned. In Botswana gay activities are punishable up to 7 years, in Kenya sex between men is punishable by up to 14 years. The debate has centered on the notion that the 'African family' is under threat and also the idea that God created man and woman for a purpose or as President Museveni argues against homosexuality—'it was clear that is not how God arranged things to be.' Some scholars have suggested that there is another force behind this quagmire. The United States evangelical Christian right has been accused of exporting the sexuality battles to Africa—notably Nigeria, Uganda and Kenya. Africa is viewed as ideologically a favorable ground by the Christian right as well as the benefit of having financial ties to these ministries and political access to the leadership hierarchy.

As Africans we have to overcome some of the traditional loopholes that continue to hold us tightly in the shackles-- slowing down our progress as a civil society. It is true that homophobia is on large scale in Africa. In fact daring to introduce a same sex partner to one's family in Africa is a recipe for disaster-- one would be considered either crazy or an outcast. Growing up in such a society guaranteed most of us a rude awakening –the day we trudged onto western soil. It would be foolhardy to suggest that western society openly embraces gay people. In fact in every election cycle in America there is a battle—not to the extent of a death penalty but with a similar course of argument. Gay right activists in America continue to challenge bans on same sex marriage—and though public opinion is gradually changing in support of gay rights, the legislative battles are still too steep to overcome. It is disheartening to hear Africa's leaders spearhead hate speech. This turn of events is unacceptable and a gross infringement of human rights. As a society we need to seek out of our cultures and religion the values that propel our society to prosperity and not the norms that oppress the rights of the minority. Society in the past centuries openly oppressed women and blacks-- and the lessons learnt from such evil times should be used to avoid repeating the same historical sins of man.

Progress in Africa has for a long time been hampered by the failure of our politicians to break free from religious and cultural dogma. It is quintessential that we separate church and cultural taboos from our politics. The current popular religions are foreign to our lands and have in fact accounted for significant bloodshed and turmoil following the independence of African states. Religion is not necessarily a bad thing—but leadership should not impose or use their religious beliefs as grounds for excluding and oppressing minorities. Similarly, our traditional beliefs and cultural practices continue to face the test of time—and practices such as female circumcision in some ethnic groups have been abolished when it became clear that they were harmful. We cannot continue to live in the past. Society continues to change rapidly and our culture has to adapt to new challenges. African leadership should be the force guiding our politics out of cultural and religious captivity. Legislation against gays in Uganda and similar policies around the continent of Africa is another case of denial that the river indeed does not exist. HIV/AIDS caught us by surprise—and has over the last decade ravaged families and claimed millions of lives. Openly talking about sex and sexuality and developing a framework to create harmony between our religious and traditional values--from the grassroots of African families all the way to the leadership hierarchy is not only a choice we have to make but a necessity.

© Kawuma

Why can't we Africans get along?

2009-12-05T23:42:00.001-08:00

The term "tribe" generates controversy among African scholars. Some have called it a western brand name for 'savage' and 'primitive'--making my task more daunting to decipher the recent trend of sporadic but highly violent inter-(tribal) conflicts. Knowing that African history is a complex maze to unravel, I will not dwell on the definitions. History will not do us any favors, but shaping the present builds a path for a better future. It is imperative that Africans take a deep breath and weed out the root causes of the bloody conflicts we have endured in the last decade. Word on the street has branded these conflicts 'tribal war fare'-- the Rwandan genocide—Tutsi vs. Hutu, the Kenyan post election violence – Luo vs. Kikuyu and the Baganda vs. Ugandan government. These events are a reminder that much as society in Africa is on a path of inter-cultural integration, there are still deeply rooted hostilities among our ethnic groups.

Why do we continue to have inter-ethnic violence in Africa? To uncover the origins of most conflicts in the world today, always follow the money trail. For the case of Arica, if we intend to weed out the catalyst for ethnic violence, I suggest examining wealth control—and the waves of economic forces operating within our society. Remember, wealth and power go hand-in-hand. It is evident historically that 'land' was a key asset for many African ethnic groups—just like the successful empires in the West. Wars were waged to conquer new territories and expand influence over new societies. The land battles still prevail in numerous African countries today-- with some ethnic groups demanding land that had been stripped away. The Buganda kingdom in Uganda is currently in a fierce battle with the central government over land ownership. To understand why we are having uprisings with ethnic ties, it is important to analyze the power dynamics.

If you scout the streets in many of our nations, you will hear whispers of a particular leader diverting wealth to his tribes-men. Africa's leadership hierarchy has often been accused of plundering the national resources to benefit sections of the population and hence dominating, exploiting and discriminating against other ethnic groups. Allegations could be true or false depending on which country in Africa you come from, but at the heart of the recent conflicts, there strong elements of revenge or attempts to attack a group (ethnicity) of people perceived to be dominant. This phenomenon offers some explanation to the mayhem ensuing elections in some corners of Africa—after failing to topple the status quo. In fact the majority of wars in Africa have been fought because a particular group or ethnicity feels excluded from power. When the ballot fails to get the job done, many resort to the bullet and machetes.

To eliminate elements of ethnic rivalry we need to have a paradigm shift in the fabric of our economic, political and social setup. Western countries have been known for providing equal opportunity for every citizen to climb the ladder of progress. These societies have been engineered to reward excellence rather than privilege. The perception among the masses in Africa is that the African dream for a long-time continues to be tied to one's ethnic group. Hence the phrase that "You have to know somebody to be somebody." Everyone wants a piece of the pie for their own people and feather their nests. The lack of separation between our political institutions and ethnicity/religion continues to account for our failed democracies. It is not rare in some corners of Africa to have appointed ministers and candidates for leadership positions coming from the same ethnic group—indeed this phenomenon accounts for the desire and tendency for some to hold onto power at all costs.

In order to reverse this trend and curb the cycle of ethnic tensions, we need to deconstruct and reverse our historical ties to tribalism, spatial divisions and objectification. A melting pot society which is equitable and just is the key to enabling each citizen to live up to their full potential. It is evident and worth noting that many Africans continue to derive their identity from the rich traditions, values, cultures and norms of their tribes. However, Africa's prosperity urgently needs a society that rises beyond the divisiveness and ethnic tensions that continue to derail the growth of our nation states—it is time for us to start getting along.

© Kawuma

Why is the International Criminal Court (ICC) only focusing on Africa?

2009-11-28T19:57:00.001-08:00

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has recently been under-fire for indicting mostly Africans and turning a blind eye to the rest of the world. Critical analysis of the list of culprits has led pundits to propose changing the name from ICC to ACC (African Criminal Court). The recent push by ICC prosecutor Luis Moreno-Ocampo to weed out the suspects of the post-election violence in Kenya has only added fuel to the fire. The ICC was established in 2002 with the goal of prosecuting individuals that have accounted for inexcusable blood-shed through war crimes and genocide. I used the term 'inexcusable' because when it comes to Nations in the western world, these victims are usually referred to as elements of collateral damage. Investigation by the ICC has recently focused on war-crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Northern Uganda, Darfur, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the Central African Republic (CAR).

The following list includes individuals that have been indicted by the ICC—some are deceased but are still due for a court date. Joseph Kony (Uganda), Vincent Otti (deceased, Uganda), Raska Lukwiya (deceased, Uganda), Okot Odhiambo (Uganda), Dominic Ongwen (Uganda), Thomas Lubanga (DRC), Bosco Ntanda (DRC), Ahmed Haroun (Darfur), Ali Kushayb (Darfur), Germain Katanga (DRC), Mathieu Ngudjolo Chui (DRC), Jean-Pierre Bemba (CAR), Bahr Idriss Garda (Darfur), Omar Al-Bashir (Darfur). It is peculiar that in spite of crimes against humanity that have been committed in the Middle-East and South America—the list of warrants entirely focuses on Africa. There is no doubt that all 14 of the above culprits deserve prosecution and a severe penalty but the fact that the ICC received over 2000 cases and chose to dismiss many on grounds of-- lack of jurisdiction-has left many flabbergasted.

The ICC has had its critics in Africa since the collapse of the peace talks between the Ugandan government and Joseph Kony--leader of the Lord's resistance Army (LRA). Kony and the LRA have caused mayhem in northern Uganda since 1987 with thousands killed, tortured, mutilated, abducted, enslaved and raped. Museveni referred the LRA debacle to the ICC for investigation after failing to achieve a military solution. Ironically, after making some progress with a unilateral ceasefire and peace talks in Juba in 2006, it was the arrest warrant issued by the ICC that was a stumbling block--ending any hope of a peaceful solution. Talks have been ongoing since 2006 but the rebels continue to refuse signing the final-peace treaty due to the confusion surrounding the handling of the war crimes prosecution and setting the bar high with un-attainable demands. This has led many to argue that the ICC has been interfering with Africa's efforts to bring peace in the region.

Tension between the ICC and the Kenyan government further highlights the on-going differences between the ICC and Africa's leadership hierarchy. President Kibaki and Raila Odinga appear to be at loggerheads with the initiative by the ICC to assume responsibility of the culprits responsible for the post-election violence that claimed numerous lives. Pundits have argued that Kenya should be allowed to conduct the investigations and set up their own tribunals—but the ICC prosecutor has questioned the intentions of the Kenyan government and wants justice to be served before the coming elections. This aggressive approach by the ICC has left some questioning the credibility of the court—that ignored similar post election violence in Iran. "Are some animals more equal than others?" The indictment of the incumbent-- President Omar Al-Bashir of Sudan has left others fearful that this might be another case of derailing ongoing peace talks in Sudan.

I have been a critic of the United Nations for a long-time—particularly the continued tendency to ignore the atrocities committed by the powerful nations. But when it comes to genocide and crimes against humanity, I find it inexcusable no matter the scenario— this is not the time for Africa to start waving the flag of victimization. Though the African Union (AU) has argued that "justice should be pursued in a way that does not impede or jeopardize efforts aimed at promoting lasting peace," we are yet to see any path of lasting peace laid out by the AU. Violence, chaos, piracy and bloodshed continue to plague Eastern Africa and the ICC cannot be blamed for all of our failures. Africa has thirsted for economic investment, medical supplies, and access to health care, food and shelter for her population. We have always desired to be on top of the list of well wishers—and when it comes to holding our leaders accountable; the standards should not be changed. This is not a "misuse of indictment against African leaders" as some have claimed. This is justice-- and no one is above the law—unless you are bigger than the ICC!

© Kawuma

‘African Time’ killing Africa

2009-11-23T16:50:00.001-08:00

The phrase "African time" is often used to describe the cultural deficiency in time perception and relaxed attitude of Africans towards time. This phenomenon is so widespread and acceptable---to the extent that lateness by an African requires no explanation. This adage can potentially be upgraded from a stereotype to an innate trait. Some have argued that it's not only an African concept---other cultures exhibit similar characteristics. Colored people's time (CPT) in the United States refers to a similar trend among people of color. If you have been around folks from Jamaica, Trinidad and South America, you might as well add them to the band-wagon. However, if I were to create a ranking with a scale of 1 to 10 with 'one' referring to least likely to be late and 'ten' most likely to be late, Africans could be ranked at eleven.

Analyzing this topic does not require intensive research, as an African you could reflect on your own life experiences and daily tendencies. In my language, the terminologies for time 'describe the event' rather than the 'particular time' the events occur. Some of the words we use include: 'ku makya' (morning), 'mu ttuntu' (midday heat), 'akawungeezi' (evening), 'ekkiro' or 'ettumbi' (night). If you were to dig deeper into the linguistics—you could analyze 'time related word' usage in any African language and the results could be similar. "Before sunrise we always let the cattle out of the kraal--when the sun is high in the sky, the cattle graze by the river and by sunset all the milking is done before darkness arrives." Unlike that generalized assessment of time in African culture, the western view of time is more specific and linear in nature. The events of the day follow a timetable or schedule--breaking down the day in smaller blocks. On my first trip to Europe I was amazed by the punctuality of the public transport system. If you are a minute or even a few seconds late, you will most likely have to wait for the next one. Flash-back to the scene at the taxi-park in Africa—the taxi or bus only leaves after every seat is occupied. It could be minutes or even hours-- such a system makes the day very un-predictable and highlights the differences in our time management.

The statement that 'time is money' leaves no mystery why any society or culture with a relaxed attitude towards time—is still rooted at the bottom of the ladder of economic progress. Time management is a key aspect of organizing, prioritizing and in the context of economic advancement, a critical ingredient in maximizing productivity. The western countries and recently the Asian block excel at time management and are currently the highest achievers in many facets of life ranging from public service, economic prosperity, health-care, education and sports. Companies that function exceptionally well have a foundation based on maximizing productivity from their employees-- and in most western countries, work is paid by the hour. Africa's economy is hurting from the culture of 'getting the job done whenever it is finished' rather than setting a 'standard time it should take to complete a task.' For instance if I were to ask how long it would take to get a passport in a western country, you might have a specific answer of 7 to 14 business days. However, if I were to ask any African how long it would take to get a passport issued in their country, very few will have a rough estimate—hence the phrase 'it gets done, whenever it gets done.'

It is always a great danger to group people in one basket and promote the ongoing stereotypes about our people and continent. My intention is not to brand every African wired and consistently predictable for lack of time management. There Africans who master the art of punctuality and likewise westerners who exhibit the 'African time' symptoms. However, many will agree that the notion of African time is a statistically significant phenomenon. In order to compete at the highest level with the western world, whether in sports or economic progress, we need to grasp the concept of time. If we continue to cherish the notion of "African time", we can only further reinforce the stereotypes that brand our people as lazy and irresponsible. As Thomas Edison once said, 'Time is really the only capital that any human being has, and the only thing he can't afford to lose.' Africa's great grand parents never had the clock and used the sun to tell time—our generation has the clock and should listen to the tick-tack of the clock-arm to prevent 'African time' from killing Africa.

©Kawuma

Kawum-advice

2009-11-23T11:56:00.001-08:00

Is it reasonable to break up Sudan into smaller countries as a solution to the current crisis?

Africa has a long history of bloodshed as a result of tribal and religious conflicts. Society has continued to expand and integration is prevalent in many corners of Africa. Homogeneous communities are history—however, there still regions populated by a majority of a particular tribe or religion. As Africans from different tribal and religious groups continue to migrate into metropolitan and economically prosperous regions—a melting point society has emerged. It would therefore be setting a dangerous precedent to separate Africa's largest nation as a result of religious differences. This might set off a chain of similar conflicts and demands in other nations. It could also undermine the notion of cultural and religious tolerance. Therefore we should focus our efforts on conflict resolution through a message of unity.

© Kawuma

Kawum-advice

2009-11-18T08:26:00.001-08:00

It is genuine to ask what is hurting Africa the most—'AIDS' or Foreign 'aid'? Africa is at the cross-roads where self-sustenance or 'sustainable development' is critical for economic progress. Foreign aid has created a culture of dependence, starved the continent of the spirit of creativity, entrepreneurship and inventiveness needed to navigate out of the maze of poverty. AIDS continues to kill millions in Sub-Saharan Africa just as foreign aid has over a long-time killed the economies and kept numerous African Nations trapped in the cycle of poverty. "Necessity is the mother of invention', but once you are guaranteed to be spoon-fed when cash-stricken, it eliminates the necessity and urgency which drives societies to jump-start new ideas to remain on the ladder of progress. Africa is a vehicle that often runs out of gas on the long journey towards prosperity. However, the developed world continues to tow Africa to the destination whenever the 'gas light' is on empty. Africa should be given the opportunity to step out of the driver's seat and walk to the gas station.

© Kawuma

Africa gets yet another credit card with a $ 10 billion spending limit?

2009-11-15T19:20:00.001-08:00

A theoretical war of volcanic proportion on 'fiscal responsibility' continues to rage between the liberal and conservative movements in the United States. Government spending has become a talking point for many politicians and hence the popular phrase of 'leaving our children and grand children in debt.' Developed nations especially with the current economic slump have struggled to balance their checkbooks, with projected expenditures far exceeding their revenues. As national deficits continue to pile-up and recessions continue to shake up the global markets---it is more critical than ever for African countries to consider balancing their books. Our economies rely heavily on foreign aid, direct investment, remittances and subsidized loans most of which come from developed nations. African countries are trapped in a cycle of dependence likely to send our economies in turmoil once the foreign aid check is terminated.

There appears to be a wave of excitement in Africa following Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao unveiling a new Visa Platinum card---- with a credit line of $10 billion. African finance ministers are already salivating at the no hassle enticing rewards with low interest rates and fees –offering additional spending power for the already indebted nations. This signals another step in the expansion of China's role in Africa—and it is no surprise that most items you will find in Africa have 'made in China' inscribed on the back. Though I believe that Africa has a lot to benefit from the large market offered by China, expansion of our national debt through additional foreign loans is digging our own grave. Foreign aid has been one of the significant barriers of economic growth in Africa. The notion that the continent continues to pile up debt with nothing to show for it—due to corruption, mismanagement and poor leadership calls for fiscal responsibility and a change in strategy.

Africa has to devise a new development plan—following the example of the Asian tigers as well as emerging economies like Brazil. A market-driven economy offers a more realistic path for development rather than simply putting bills in the hands of African governments. Sustainable development can only be achieved through open markets, better terms of trade and micro-finance. It is no secret that African nations pay millions to service foreign debt—over $20 billion per year, a large price tag for a continent still struggling to educate the youth and provide sufficient health-care. It is foolhardy for our governments to continue seeking aid in spite of the deleterious consequences. The public perception that foreign aid is free ought to be quashed—it is our duty as Africans to start holding our leadership accountable. The time has come for serious fiscal responsibility from African nations—and turning down the attractive $10 billion credit line from the Chinese would be a good start.

© Kawuma Daniel Busuulwa

Gaddafi’s madness continues

2009-11-05T21:47:00.001-08:00

Gaddafi the self proclaimed King of Kings is in the process of changing tactics—after coming to terms with the lack of support from Africa's top leadership establishment for his dream of the United States of Africa. Pundits laid out a conspiracy theory explaining why Gaddafi was a no-show at the African Union summit in Kampala a fortnight ago. Apparently Museveni the host of that summit strongly opposes Gaddafi's idea of a United Africa. Gaddafi had a plan B under his belt which involves revamping Africa's traditional base. It has been reported that several high profile meetings have been going on involving kings, sultans and princes from several corners of Africa. Recently there was a meeting at the National Heritage ministry headquarters, marking the Kenyan phase of a series of meetings sponsored by Col Gaddafi. Similar meetings have been held in Uganda, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, South Africa and Ivory Coast. Witnesses describe the event as colorful with traditional costumes, medallions and regalia on display.

These are troubling times and I believe we are destined to see more madness from Gaddafi. As the head of African Union it is imperative that he spear-heads the tackling of Africa's key challenges today. A unified Africa whether politically or economically is a discussion worth having but I believe we need to first stop the bleeding. Gaddafi's absence at the AU summit with a mission of tackling Africa's refugee crisis and the fate of internally displaced people is inexcusable if two weeks later he is sponsoring events to run his own agenda. With traditional leaders already bickering for power with central governments in many nations in Africa, one wonders what impact they could have in pushing for a United Africa. The African Union has once again become a sleeping giant without a clear sense of direction. Africa is full of potential but the fruits are useless if there is no one to harvest them. The lack of responsible leadership has resulted into failure to harness the abundant resources. It is high time Gaddafi and his gang of Kings stopped parading robes and medallions and listened to the voices of millions in Africa living on crumbs and dying needlessly.

The Chihuahua Hypothesis

2009-11-05T13:16:00.001-08:00

To gauge the level of social progress in a nation, analyze how they treat their Chihuahua's (dogs). This hypothesis has its own limitations—to avoid dwelling into the complexity of this assessment I will exclude the 'Vick phenomenon' as well as cultures where a canine dish could be found on a restaurant menu between the steaks and pastas. While browsing through online news articles, I came across the New Vision one of Uganda's premier News engines with the headline 'Court acquits woman of dog abuse.' It was a moment of epiphany—for such a leading story in an African News paper, not because we are an inhumane society but rather in the grand-scheme of things and all the human rights violations—Chihuahua rights are the least of our problems. Is this a signal for a society on the ladder of social progress? Donna Garske's step by step theory on social change known as Knowledge, Attitude, Beliefs and Behaviors (KABBS)—highlights the path to the top of the ladder. First step is to increase knowledge and awareness of a problem, through this process we can create an attitude in society which culminates into our belief system and eventually shapes the way we behave.

"The Uganda Society for the Protection and Care of Animals had accused Combe (the owner) of failing to feed the dog and tying it with a short chain. The group also said Combe left the flea-infested dog unattended to for several days." Though this story on the surface is seen as a woman accused of mistreating her dog, there is great value to the substance and societal implications. Africans should not only focus on the principles of quantitative growth as an indicator of the level of progress on the continent. There is dire need to build a foundation in our societies with the tools of qualitative growth. We cannot have the desired economic take-off without an environment that facilitates social change. Africa is home to some of the most brutal gender, tribal, religious and sexual inequalities. We cannot always wait as a society for events with catastrophic consequences to occur to sow the seeds of social change.

Though I believe it is good news to have strong laws and convictions for animal abuse—it is ironic that significant human rights violations continue unabated. In eastern Congo, October 2009, Human Rights Watch documented the deliberate killing by Congolese soldiers of at least 270 civilians between the towns of Nyabiondo and Pinga in a remote part of North Kivu province since March. Many of them had been killed during two massacres in August at Mashango and Ndoruma villages. Most of the victims were women, children, and the elderly. Some were decapitated. Others were chopped to death by machete, beaten to death with clubs, or shot as they tried to flee. North of Uganda in Sudan similar atrocities and violations of human rights have been committed against the people of Darfur and the African Union (AU) continues to debate and dodge the idea of bringing the culprits to justice including President Omar al-Bashir, for whom the ICC issued an arrest warrant on March 4, 2009.

African society needs to start climbing the ladder of social justice. The steps might be slippery but we urgently need to adopt a new approach and way of thinking. The final product will take time and will require a path of evolution. Social change is our blue-print for advancement. The Chihuahua hypothesis could be the spark we need to stop the bloodshed and jump-start prosperity in every corner of Africa.

© Kawuma Daniel Busuulwa

Africa starving for a culture of activism?

2009-11-01T12:56:00.001-08:00

Through activism Africa overcame colonialism and apartheid—dictatorship is the monster standing tall in the horizon. Voices continue to be raised in the sidelines against dictatorships. What have we done as a people to reverse this trend? How can one leader hold a nation hostage over a life-time? Why can’t the people stand up and voice their opinion? My answer to this conundrum is the need to build a culture of activism in Africa. African society is still lagging behind when it comes to activism not only in the political arena but also environmental, economic and social justice. It is perplexing how pro-active Africans become once they move to the western nations. I have witnessed African groups organize events for the conflicts in Darfur, child soldiers in northern Uganda and numerous other conflicts the few years I have travelled and lived outside Africa—however, I have heard fewer instances of similar events organized on the continent of Africa. Why don’t we show the same spirit of activism when we are back in our countries? Is it because our society lacks the culture of activism?

The saying that 'you ripe what you sow'—explains the lack of political maturity in most corners of Africa. Starting from the nurturing stage within our schools, there isn't much freedom and emphasis placed upon issues affecting our societies and the political arena. Many of Africa's youth are disconnected from the politics and social issues around them. Hence the saying that the 'youth are the leaders of tomorrow'—doesn't materialize when we keep them ignorant and marginalized. Africa's youth lack a medium for letting their voices heard—the microphone always appears to be on mute. Gradual build up of anger and dissatisfaction often erupts during the seldom held protests. The most recent examples are the protests in Uganda and Guinea which resulted in bloodshed. Extreme anger and emotion drives some to burn down infrastructure and loot businesses-- a path not geared towards solving the problems at hand. This is not in any way a platform to let the governments off the hook—for firing live ammunition at protestors. However, creating a culture of activism will change the nature in which protest are viewed in our societies—and also provide a means to hold our governments accountable.

How then, does a deficient culture of activism contribute to the increasing trend of long-serving presidents? When you look across the continent of Africa, it is evident that the majority of the people in nations under dictatorships would favor a change in leadership. However, the underlying problem hindering the push for change in these nations is a lack of organization at the grassroots. Dictators like Mugabe continue to thrive and draw crowds whenever they travel across their respective nations. This phenomenon is indeed startling. How can a people under oppressive regimes continue to be submissive to leadership sinking their nations? Have these people decided that 'better to be ruled by the devil we know than the one to come?' The lack of domestic pressure on rogue leaders is so overwhelming that opposition leaders such as Morgan Tsvangirai continue to seek help from regional leaders and western nations to pile pressure on Mugabe. Continued tendency by many to view opposition in their respective countries as creating a path for violence and civil un-rest rather than to bring change to their nations is rooted in a society that lacks a culture of activism.

As a continent, we need to start sowing the seeds of activism in the young generation. If we don't fill this vacuum at this tender age, it will be filled with fear. Activism would create a culture where people feel closer to politicians and remain actively engaged. It is imperative that we create an environment where making a difference is not only at the ballot box, but also in the day to day political decisions that affect our communities. The political machine in the west could be used as a template for engagement--- where people call their senators and the leadership hierarchy to support their positions on—'health care reform', 'climate change', 'civil rights' and so forth. Activism that works is worth more than much knowledge that is idle. This is the direction we should be taking as a continent---- 'governments of the people, and governments that listen to the people'— Africa is faced with the rock of dictatorships-- but in the battle between the rock and the stream, the stream always wins—not through strength but by perseverance. A culture of activism is the water in the stream.

© Kawuma Daniel Busuulwa

Murphy’s law sheds light on recent events at the African Union summit in Kampala (Uganda)

2009-10-26T18:39:00.001-07:00

"Anything that can go wrong will go wrong." This adage which many have dubbed Murphy's Law is in full effect at the African Union. Events this past week reflect the gloom and doom of what has become the same old failure of the African Union. There was a glimmer of hope when we changed the name from the Organization of African Union (OAU) to the African Union (AU). However, this development fell on the same barren soil and we are yet to ripe any fruit. It can be categorized in the same class of 'hall of shame' name changes-- as one suggested by former President of Uganda Idi Amin to change the name of the currency of Uganda from the Uganda schilling to the Uganda dollar hoping that it will boost in value. When you hope things can't get any worse---they do.

At the recent AU summit in Kampala (Uganda) aimed at addressing the refugee and internally displaced people (IDP) crisis in Africa—the current chair of the African Union Mummar Gaddafi was no show. To further demonstrate how bizarre this turn of events was, there was no official statement from Tripoli explaining the reason for this absence. It blows my mind that Gaddafi not only flew his tent across the Atlantic but also took the time to prepare and deliver a two hour speech at the United nations a few weeks ago—but has no time or explanation for his absence at a meeting of an organization he chairs-- addressing the refugee crisis which is causing un-rest in East Africa. It was very clear from the election of Gaddafi as chair of the AU that it was a slice of bread with butter on one side---and we knew it was about to fall but hoped it would not fall on the buttered side. Now that that butter is on the floor, I believe it is time to cast the vote of no confidence.

Not only was the chair of the meeting absent, only five heads of state attended the summit including Museveni from the host nation. Presidents Robert Mugabe (Zimbabwe), Rupiah Banda (Zambia), Mohammed Abdelaziz (Western Sahara) and Sheik Sharif Ahmed (Somalia) were the attendees---or make it four heads of state since Mugabe slept through most of the meetings. What surprises me is the notion that East African leaders who have been most affected by the refugee and IDP crisis were also missing. East Africa has been home to majority of the conflicts on the continent in the last decade. Some of the previously war torn nations that have accounted for the refugee crisis include DRC, Rwanda, Burundi, Somalia, Ethiopia, Eritrea, election violence in Kenya and the Darfur crisis in Sudan. These conflicts have displaced an estimated 900,000 refugees and IDP. The more I analyze these events—the angrier I become as a concerned African. What is wrong with our leadership establishment in Africa? Do these Presidents really care about the fate of Africans who are suffering every day in refugee camps and lack a permanent home? How about those massacred because of their religious and tribal affiliations? What is wrong with our continent? ---the more I ask these questions, the more I realize that "Anything that can go wrong is going wrong"

©Kawuma Daniel Busuulwa

Helping Africa’s most vulnerable Children today, so they can help Africa tomorrow

2009-10-26T11:20:00.001-07:00

While driving home on a beautiful Sunday afternoon through a small town in Southern West Virginia—I came across a bus parked outside a church. Inscribed in large letters on this bus was "The African Children's' Choir." I heard about a children's choir on tour a few years ago in the United States--but it never occurred to me this choir would be performing in my small town. Being new to the area, I wasn't comfortable making a stop and inquiring about the performers at the local church. I kept driving home amused that my fellow mother-Landers were in the neighbor-hood—and it never occurred to me that this choir could be from my country, Uganda. 'Chance favors a prepared mind'… the following day while on the social networking site (face book), I re-connected with a classmate I had last seen in 1994-- who told me that he performed in Kentucky a few months ago—and that indeed there was an " African Children's choir-- from Uganda in the same area. I started connecting the dots… 'White bus with African Children's choir in my town'---'old friend was in Kentucky'—and mentioned-- 'group was in Kentucky a few miles west of my town. At this time I was beating my-self up over failing to make the stop and watch the kids perform.

Two days later on Tuesday pre-occupied with the hectic work at the pharmacy, it was business as usual—until a friendly gentleman showed up to fill a prescription. I overheard his conversation with one of my pharmacy technicians about a choirmaster who just had his wisdom teeth pulled. When asked if this choirmaster (Frank) had prescription insurance, he mentioned that he was just in town with the "Africans Children's choir." I immediately dialed back on the previous events—and asked him about the choir. I introduced myself and he confirmed that the choir was from Uganda. It was an amazing series of events and luckily I was working half day. The gentleman at the pharmacy was Rev Hill who was hosting Frank and some of the members from the choir. He invited me to meet the whole group later that evening. It was a great experience meeting and talking to the kids. Frank was also still amazed that his prescription was filled by a Ugandan pharmacist thousands of miles away from home in this little town. I had dinner with the group and promised them that I would try to attend one of their shows before they leave town.

I attended one of their last concerts in West Virginia and it was a wonderful performance. The music and dancing was inspirational----it was a display of pride and promise in these young children. I was proud seeing the life and joy---beauty and dignity of African culture at work. The positive image we rarely see. The 'African Children's Choir' has been a successful movement and has been established in several countries in Africa including: Ghana, Nigeria, Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and South Africa. The ACC has become home to many children who have no refuge, either from political conflicts, struggling families and loss of parents from HIV/AID. The organization has now marked its 25^th year anniversary and has grown into a larger entity called Music for life—which brings together the choir and numerous projects in Africa. The ACC remains the ambassador for millions of vulnerable children on the continent, bringing their stories and message of hope to the world.

I had a great experience meeting and hearing from these children. They travel around the world and you might see a bus with 'African Children's choir' in your neighborhood. Don't keep driving like I did—stop over and say hello and offer your support. These young children are the future of Africa.
For more information on this group visit: africanchildrenschoir.com or www.twitter.com/acchoir or www.facebook.com/africanchildrenschoir

Are you for the “PUBLIC OPTION” or the “AFRICAN OPTION” to solve Africa’s health care crisis?

2009-10-22T11:27:00.001-07:00

The health care debate in the United States has been like a fire-works show in the political arena which continues to rage. This back-and forth discourse got me thinking about the state of health care in Africa. While watching Charlie Rose interview some of the top researchers and health care experts on the recent influenza pandemic, some of the remarks made during this interview made me cringe—Unfortunately, they were spilling the TRUTH--- and I just couldn't swallow their sentiments. They were talking about the recent shortage of the swine flu vaccine in the United States. "I am sure at the end of the day we will have enough swine-flu vaccine for the Americans" he said. "And we should later-on send whatever is left over to the developing world." I usually point out the names I quote, but this issue is bigger than any name. This is the reality Africa and other developing nations face—amidst pandemics and other crises. The developed world seems to hold the key to our survival-- analogous to how insurance companies are holding the lives of many hostage in the United States. Insurance companies deny coverage to many as a result of 'pre-existing health conditions.' Africa and the rest of the developing world is denied immediate coverage as a result of 'pre-existing poverty.'

This is not news; in fact the swine-flu outbreak only highlights the fate of many in the developing world once the pandemics infest our nations. The notion that one has to make a bucket-list as soon as they acquire HIV/AIDS in developing nations----while in the developed world even with HIV/AIDS, you still have a life expectancy greater than any nation in sub-Saharan Africa demonstrates how catastrophic the health care quagmire is. This leads to the question; Should the developed world guarantee Africa and other developing nations health-care coverage (public option) instead of throwing us left overs or is it time to rely on ourselves (African option)? I have always believed that 'African problems need African solutions.' This sentiment might seem as lack of gratitude for the kindness and dedication of many from the west—who are trying to improve the lives of those who are suffering—however, their efforts are not sustainable. We cannot always rely on Angelina Jolie to adopt orphans in Africa who are losing their parents to HIV. Neither can we rely on the donations made in churches across the western world to send missions to Africa to help build houses and provide clean water in villages. Africans need to be at the front-line of each and every battle we fight. We cannot be cheer leaders while the west leads the war on health care and political persecution in Africa.

In order for Africa to break away from the grip of dependence from the developed world—we need a change in strategy. This starts from our education system. We need to start sowing seeds in young Africans not to be caged in the world as consumers—but have the potential for innovation, creativity and production. Solving health care dependence requires significant investment in health care research—in our universities and industry. To avoid getting bread crumbs, Africans need to start baking their own bread. Achieving sustainable solutions requires African ownership and realization of their ideas---with the notion that the long-term solutions come from our communities themselves. Formulating solutions to our problems provides an incentive for Africans to see them work—rather than make an impression that solutions are imported and imposed on our people. Africans need to be at the front-line of vaccine and drug creation and production. We cannot just sit and watch millions lose their lives—while waiting for the Good Samaritan. Whether we are talking about millions dying from HIV, influenza and malaria---from lack of access to health care or those dying from political conflicts such as Darfur, the sustainable solution is the 'African Option.' If we fail to hold true to this principle---'they will always send whatever is left over to save a few while millions continue to die needlessly'

© Kawuma Daniel Busuulwa

Kawuma's Quote of the day

2009-10-22T10:17:00.001-07:00

"To avoid getting bread crumbs, Africans need to start baking their own bread" --- Kawuma Busuulwa

Kawuma's Quote of the day

2009-10-14T20:24:00.001-07:00

"A smile is worth a thousand words"---- Kawuma Busuulwa

Kawum-advice

2009-10-13T19:09:00.000-07:00

According to the Economist Intelligence Unit Index of democracy which uses 60 factors with 5 broad categories including: free and fair election process, civil liberties, functioning of government, political participation and political culture. These are the top 10 most democratic nations in the world. ( with a maximum possible score of 10)
1. Sweden 9,88
2. Iceland 9,71
3. Netherlands 9.66
4. Norway 9,55
5. Denmark 9,52
6. Finland 9,25
7. Luxembourg 9,10
8. Australia 9,09
9. Canada 9.02
10. Switzerland 9.02

If you are wondering, the lowest scores went to Myanmar (1.77), Togo (1.75), Chad (1.65), Central African republic (1.61) and North Korea (1.03). Somehow Mugabe survived relegation. To my fellow Africans if any of our nations is to ever break into the top 10, we need not only to seriously address the 5 aforementioned indicators of democracy but also get rid of Afro-colonialists/dictators/Presidents for life.

Kawuma's Quote of the Day

2009-10-13T18:33:00.000-07:00

"Democracy in the United States can currently be defined as the government OF the lobbyists FOR the media and once every four years BY the people who are still interested."---Kawuma Busuulwa

Kawuma's Quote of the Day

2009-10-12T10:05:00.001-07:00

"While in Africa we call it corruption, in the United States they call it lobbying" --- Kawuma Busuulwa

Is Obama “Nobel” but not Nobel “Peace” yet ?

2009-10-09T20:43:00.000-07:00

Like many of you I woke up this morning looking for the headlines on the “shock and awe” bombing of the moon by NASA. However, the top headline was Obama’s nomination as winner of the Nobel Peace Prize. The Irony in the timing of this award-- was that not only is Obama President of a Nation a few hours away from Bombing the moon ( with numerous un-known alien casualties!)---but he is also considering sending more troops to war in Afghanistan. I was ecstatic, as a big Obama fan--- and could have uttered a congratulations, if I miraculously ran into Obama in the hall-ways of the White House. But after having my breakfast, I was forced to Google “ Obama’s achievements” to make sure I haven’t missed anything in the last couple years.

I don’t want to make this a political attack like many hungry-Obama haters from the Republican/Conservative wing who came out swinging---some of whom stated that Obama should turn down the award. Others suggested that the award should be given to the tea-baggers who paraded Washington speaking out against Obama’s policies (Or race according to former President Jimmy Carter). This is a global award and let’s just step out-side the box and view this event from a global perspective. Do Obama’s achievements “so far” add up to land him the Nobel peace prize?

I understand that Obama’s campaign slogan was “Yes we can” and has been revered as a symbol of “HOPE” and “CHANGE” for America. It never occurred to me that this message would infiltrate the five-member Norwegian Nobel Committee. The rationale for the selection according to the committee was that “there is a “CHANGE” in Global mood since the election of Obama. That In fact Obama's call for peace and cooperation, and his pledge to reduce the world stock of nuclear arms, ease U.S. conflicts with Muslim nations and strengthen its role in combating climate change—makes him a good candidate. Thorbjoern Jagland, chairman of the Norwegian Nobel Committee further defended the decision by stating that “Some people say — and I understand it — 'isn't it premature? Too early?' Well, I'd say then that it could be too late to respond three years from now," Much as this argument makes some sense—it makes me wonder which candidates were among the 205 nominees who were eliminated. It is like coming second best to a classmate in a final exam who simply showed the professor their strategy for preparing for the test. I lived in Norway for two years and understand how gracious these people are –but if I knew they were this gracious, I never would have left. Obama has a great foreign policy vision and has made some great speeches to rally the international community in Berlin as well as at the United Nations---but we need to see some “Meat” before we start drooling. My grand-mother used to tell me that “a half-done job is like no job done.” Obama’s dream and initiative is a work in progress and I believe initiative alone does not deserve such a prize. One ought to take the step and cross the finishing line.

How about a quick glance at the present state of Obama’s young presidency. He is still deeply buried in the war in Afghanistan. I believe that anyone who believes that ‘ War is the solution to solving global problems is not worthy of the Nobel Peace prize. “War” and “Peace” are words that should not be in the same sentence. Secondly, Obama has continued with the policy of not listening to the enemy. I understand the whole campaign was to change strategy and talk to the enemy—(which could happen in the future—and he still appears open to the idea)—but I will judge him based on what I have seen so far. At the recent United Nations summit in New York—none of the leaders of the so called powerful Nations was present –and many walked out when—“the people they disagreed with were making speeches.” I understand Obama would take a lot of heat from the media and sections of Americans for staying in the room to listen to Ahmadinejad or Ghadaffi speak—but if we are to award him the Nobel Peace Prize, we expect him to be the global leader who brings the “CHANGE” and “PEACE” we expect in the world. With all this criticism, I know that no one is perfect and I understand the complexity of American politics and the delicate balance Obama has to find between his political ground in the United States and his global initiative. But at the same time we are not talking about an American award but rather a global award. When I step outside the box, I argue that we need to see more action and results from Obama before we can crown him global Nobel peace worthy. However, I will not go as far as demanding that he turns down the award----Obama humbly accepted the Nobel Peace Prize and stated that much as he believes that he does not deserve to be in the company of many transformative figures who have won this prize---he considers this symbolic moment as “a call for action.” This is what makes President Obama “Nobel” but not yet “Nobel Peace”

© Kawuma Daniel Busuulwa

GOOD MESSAGE BUT WRONG MESSENGER?

2009-09-23T13:07:00.000-07:00

Many will call Gaddafi’s address to the UN general assembly today as a hopeless rant. As evidenced by many of the pundits and post-speech analysis on the news networks— some have called him a crazy man taking advantage of his debut at the UN to rant about every subject and historical event that occurred throughout his forty years in power. However, there several key points that Gadhafi touched which might be overshadowed by the conspiracy theories he outlined.

Gaddafi bluntly addressed the reality and complexity at the heart of the United Nations. He methodically cut through the monopoly within the hierarchy of the UN—particularly blasting the status quo in the Security Council. He renamed it the “terror council” where the permanent superpowers conveniently use the security-council when addressing violations pertaining to other nations— These same nations he argued turn a blind eye to the recommendations of the Security Council when their individual interests are at stake. Gaddafi then navigated through all the wars that occurred following the establishment of the United Nations—and how the organization has failed to live up to the expectations of the founding fathers. Next, he targeted war crimes—his argument rooted in the notion that some leaders of smaller nations have been convicted for war crimes by the ICC while their counterparts from the super-powers are never convicted for similar atrocities. It was a dramatic criticism at some point he tossed the UN charter. Gaddafi proposed equal representation of every nation in the Security Council as a solution to the monopoly. He was applauded by the African delegations when he suggested that members of the African Union also deserved to have permanent membership on the SC.

At this point of the speech many of the delegates were yawning and half of the room had empty seats. Gaddafi slammed the United Nations anti-nuclear proliferation initiatives which appear to single out other nations, imposing sanctions while ignoring inspecting nations with larger nuclear arsenals. All of Ghadafi’s arguments were rooted in the notion that as far as the United Nations is concerned, ‘some animals are more equal than others’. That in fact ‘Somali’s are not the pirates, we at the UN are the pirates.’ Gaddafi was not done—he went ahead and demanded Africa to be compensated for the wealth stolen during colonial times with a lump sum of 7.7 trillion dollars. Only Ghadafi knows how he came up with this figure.

Ghadafi surprisingly commended Obama and his plan to bring change in the world, particularly regarding nuclear disarmament but he was skeptical that America will follow through with these plans especially once Obama leaves the presidency. Ghadafi demanded further investigation of the assassination of Lumumba, Kennedy and MLK. He rebuked the travel restrictions imposed on some of the delegations arguing that if the United States is worried about its security, he will do them a favor and propose changing the head-quarters of the United Nations to another country where they won’t even need travel visas. He stated that he was not a big fun of flying for 20 hours and having to attend meetings in a different time zone when his country men were sleeping!

Gaddafi’s message was very blunt, and it reflected the underlying problem and perception in the Middle East and rest of the world regarding the fate of the UN. There is a belief that the status-quo at the United Nations gets away with everything—many nations feel they are not represented. As Ghadafi plainly stated, many nations are treated and despised as 2nd class nations—and sternly stated that ‘laws are either made for all of us or none of us’

This was a speech to remember but just like I wrote several months ago, it is a shame that the African Union elected a leader with such a poor track record to be chairman of the AU. Within his rant at the United Nations were some good points—-but one can’t expect Gaddafi to be taken seriously when he decides all of a sudden to talk about justice, equal representation and democracy. After governing Libya with an iron fist for over 40 years and been responsible for some human-rights violation, it is hypocritical to have him lecture the UN about democracy no matter how true some of his message was. He was at the United Nations to speak for the voices of millions of Africans. This leaves me wondering, if he is the right messenger?

© Kawuma Daniel Busuulwa 2009

A New Life and New Dreams

2009-08-10T18:32:00.000-07:00

It has been a very busy summer, stressful to say the least as I approached the end of the road after 24 years of school. Graduating and finally getting on the path of professional life. The ladder we all climb having no idea what lies in the horizon. Towards the end, the mind was getting tired, it was a struggle to keep those eyes open during lectures---procrastination was starting to kick in and the term busy-work was used for every assignment we had to turn in. Looking back--those were great years spent with great people---- each of those days prepares you for handling that shock when you are in the hot seat. It was definitely a marathon--and not a sprint.

The first few weeks have been intimidating and even deep in my sleep, dreams are a re-run of my work-days. Stepping in a position where you impact the lives of people on a daily basis is not a walk in the park-- very challenging but can be rewarding. " Always work in the best interest of your patients" we were told. But again in the real world, you are thrown to the dungeons by the realities of the business side of the equation. It is a delicate balancing act, one that will put you at logger heads with your personal beliefs and principles. A new set of challenges, a new set of assignments in a new home---and a whole new ladder to climb!

Will a pre-emptive war on pirates on the coast of Somalia solve the underlying problem?

2009-04-12T19:23:00.000-07:00

The recent show down between the U.S. Navy and the pirates on the coast of Somalia has once again sparked debate across media channels about the ideal solution to this crisis. There is great concern not only for the safety of the sailors but also the increasing cost of shipping which some have dubbed ‘piracy insurance.’ There have been suggestions of beefing up security vessels and navy ships in the Gulf of Aden, —though realistically the territory of attacks is too large to guarantee security at every corner. Shipping companies have also considered using the safer but longer route around the Cape of Good Hope--- instead of the short cut through the Suez Canal. Though this option would eliminate the need for ‘piracy insurance’, it adds an extra 2,700 miles to the voyage and increases annual fuel costs by about $3.5 million. It has also been estimated that using this alternative route would reduce the number of trips that commercial vessels can make in a year from six to five.

With all these solutions being put on the table—what I haven’t heard are any initiatives to tackle the root cause of piracy on the coast of Somalia. How about starting by asking why we have more pirates on the coast of Somalia? Then the next question would be---What is going on in Somalia and how can we fix it? It has become the norm that we try to evade the actual problems going on in the world today and instead opting for a quick fix. We always get caught up choosing the easy way out—crushing the pirates with advanced military arsenal or taking the longer route along the Cape of Good Hope and transferring the resulting cost to the consumers. How about trying to give more HOPE to the people of Somalia, so that they don’t end up trying to make a livelihood in the waters of the Red sea and the Indian Ocean? How about helping stabilize the government in Somalia to be able to control their coastline and also have some sense of stability within the country? The African Union as usual is no where to be seen----- and all the United Nations has done so far is condemn the acts and call for action against pirates through an international naval presence.

When you push people in the corner, you will eventually experience an equal and opposite reaction ---as the disenfranchised look for means to survive. Many in the world today are living under extreme poverty. Working hard to make it through the next day—living on crumbs and starring in the eyes of their loved ones without hope. As long as they continue to live behind the walls of a system that offers no solutions---a system that offers no way out---a system that has left many trapped---desperation will eventually drive them into crime-- more into drugs---and the waters will never be free of pirates. The bottom line of this quagmire is whether we would prefer to pay millions for security on the waters—rather than address the underlying problem. We should not always settle for running to the Cape of Good Hope---instead we should create an environment which offers hope for those in desperate need. Prevention is always the best form of treatment---

© Kawuma Daniel Busuulwa

NATURAL SELECTION OR CAPITALISM-SELECTION

2009-04-10T12:00:00.000-07:00

HEALTH CARE, THE GATEWAY TO DEVELOPEMENT IN AFRICA

2009-03-27T07:55:00.001-07:00

Can Biblical principles solve the HIV crisis in Africa or is the Pope sending the wrong message?

2009-03-23T21:16:00.000-07:00

I have a friend who once told me that 'if you don't play the game, don't set the rules' No disrespect to the Pope who is a key figure in the Catholic church but his recent comments during his trip to Africa regarding HIV prevention left me perturbed.

"You can't resolve HIV/AIDS with the distribution of condoms," the pope told reporters "On the contrary, it increases the problem. The pope said a responsible and moral attitude toward sex would help fight the disease; The Catholic Church rejects the use of condoms as part of its overall teaching against artificial contraception. Senior Vatican officials have advocated fidelity in marriage and abstinence from premarital sex as key weapons in the fight against AIDS.

The irony is that the Pope uttered these sentiments while visiting a continent that has been torn apart by the HIV epidemic. It is very irresponsible for a religious leader such as the Pope with a large Catholic following to make such a statement without fully assessing the consequences. This is not a time to send mixed messages to a region that is looking for answers. I understand the religious debate behind distributing condoms, and I agree that abstinence is the only 100% preventive strategy against sexual transmission----but the reality on the ground will not only be solved by biblical principles. Sub-Saharan Africa and many other parts of the world are in the midst of the HIV/AIDS pandemic----- we have reached a stage where we have to throw the kitchen sink at this pandemic. And this implies that we can’t take any preventive strategies off the table.

The Pope and proponents of this school of thought need to understand that condoms continue to save millions of lives. Simply preaching the message of abstinence has not worked in the past and will not work in the future. There have been successful stories and significant results through campaigns which promote the 'ABC' model of AIDS prevention: (A) Abstinence, (B) Be Faithful and (C) (use a) Condom if the first two fail. It is important to always have a safety net because every life is worth saving---- When it comes to fighting HIV/AIDS; I believe that the end justifies the means.

© Kawuma Daniel Busuulwa

THE KAWUMA SIX BLOCK PYRAMID (KSBP) & LIFE-EXPECTANCY

2009-02-20T20:27:00.000-08:00

WHAT DO YOU HOPE FOR?

2009-02-20T20:07:00.000-08:00

"BRAIN-DRAIN OR A BRAIN IN THE DRAIN"

2009-02-16T06:26:00.000-08:00

THE LEADERSHIP QUAGMIRE ON THE CONTINENT OF AFRICA

2009-02-12T15:17:00.000-08:00

AFRICAN PROBLEMS NEED AN AFRICAN SOLUTION

2009-02-03T07:05:00.000-08:00

WHAT LESSONS DO WE AS AFRICANS TAKE FROM PRESIDENT OBAMA'S ELECTION?

2009-01-27T22:16:00.000-08:00

The last few weeks have been historic following the election of Barack Obama as the first African American president. The question that I have heard many people ask is 'where were you when Obama was sworn in as president?' I will not be dwelling on answering this question today. However, the question I will ask each one of you is—what lessons do we learn from the election of Barrack Obama as Africans?

As a Ugandan, I have grown up under the presidency of a black man, therefore President Barack Obama’s election as a black man was not something that I had never witnessed. We have in fact had eleven black presidents in Uganda some of whom we have the luxury of wishing they had never become presidents. However, I can not underscore the significance of an African American president in the United States considering the historical and social climate. It was a historic achievement and highlights the notion that America offers opportunities to all who take the initiative and have the will to seize the moment.

There some key themes that I take from the election of Barack Obama, which I also believe could be a lesson to our leaders. First, President Obama has brought a new approach towards governance focused on reaching across the isle to people who have different views, opinions, and beliefs to find a middle ground. He has opened the gates to a presidency with a vision of unity, respect and refrained from the confrontationist school of thought. As Africans, we could learn from this approach to solve some of the divisive issues that are tearing our continent apart. Land ownership, tribalism, religious conflict, political affiliations and power-greed are some of the conundrums holding our citizens hostage and I believe that finding a common ground would save a lot of blood shed.

Secondly, witnessing the power of democracy-- where the people vote for a leader they desire without violence or the familiar vote rigging controversies was refreshing. I still dream of a day when our countries would hold presidential elections and the losing candidate comes out to congratulate the president-elect. Our brothers in Ghana recently had a mostly peaceful election. John Atta Mills' victory and the conduct of the people of Ghana provides a rare example of democracy at work in Africa and it is my hope that such successful power transitions can have a trickle down effect on the rest of the continent.

Thirdly, many have stated that President Barack Obama brings a breath of fresh air to a country in need of CHANGE. Looking back at my country Uganda and many other African countries, we could use a breath of fresh air. The sight of President Bush boarding a plane to Texas as a private citizen and the sight of President Obama walking into the white house was such a powerful image that many of us are thirsting for in our countries. Having a change in the power structure every four years is a tool which brings new ideas to the table, allows the country to look back and reflect on the achievements of the previous four years and set goals for the next administration. It is such a ray of hope and change in direction that a country like Uganda, Zimbabwe and many others on the continent could use.

Finally, the election of President Barack Obama has been branded by many as a signal that every American irrespective of race, social class and gender has a chance to become president. The notion that some of our presidents in Africa have spent as many as 30 years in power is an indication that we still have a long way to go. All we can do is HOPE that as future leaders we can build a strong democratic foundation to make sure that our children can live to say that they too can become president rather than be born and die under the same president.

© Kawuma Daniel Busuulwa

IT'S OVER

2008-11-04T19:43:00.001-08:00

BARACK OBAMA THE 44th PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES!!

WHY IS IT ALWAYS THE BULLET AND NOT THE BALLOT?

2008-11-02T20:40:00.000-08:00

Once again it appears that the idea of peace has failed to materialise in Africa. It is very painful to be in America where the political process is in full force while on my continent war appears to be the solution for regime change. I have complained about the ugliness of the presidential race in America (regarding the emphasis on the non-issues and name calling on the campaign trail), however I would take this on any day rather than see hundreds of Africans displaced from their land running away from the wrath of rebel groups. Congo once again is at the center of this quagmire and again the United Nation's peace-keeping forces were ill prepared to counter this insurgence. The question I will ask once again is where is the African Union ? We always blame the United Nations and Western countries for not doing enough, yet our own countries in Africa are not vigilant enough to come up with a political or military solution to this conflict. Hundreds are going to lose their lives and more are going to end up in refugee camps. When are we as Africans going to realise that we are hurting our own people? That we are killing our own brothers and sisters; that political greed is not the way forward; when are we going to surrender our guns and seek peaceful solutions? When are we going to have political maturity? How can we expect the rest of the world to have a different view of our continent when we can't put an end to war? Why do we keep having these cycles of self inflicted wounds? Our generation has the duty to answer these questions......and as I have always stated, 'It is an African problem which needs an African solution'

KAWUMA ENDORSES BARACK OBAMA FOR PRESIDENT

2008-11-02T20:16:00.000-08:00

Barack Obama finally managed to win over my endorsement for president of United States despite my initial claim that I was a neutral election observer. Obama has great leadership skills that have inspired the young generation, many of whom had given up on politics. He is very eloquent and challenges the ideas of the status quo. He has shown good judgement on a number of key issues particularly in response to the economic crisis as well as the need to change America's foreign policy from isolationist to tough diplomacy. His vision of America is based on UNITY rather than the aging ideas of conservative America vs liberal America or the never ending issues that divide the country that include, gay rights, abortion, religion, taxation. And finally it would be un-realistic if I didn't mention that he's a BROTHER! The only downside to this endorsement is that I cannot vote but I'll be there in spirit...Nov 4th!!

NOTES FROM AN INTERNATIONAL ELECTION OBSERVER!

2008-09-24T21:13:00.000-07:00

It has been a busy few months both in my life and the exciting political arena. But guess what? I am baaack! First of all, I will start with my experience as an international election observer in the United States. I have always noticed that America sends election observers to Africa whenever we are holding presidential election. However, we never return the favor. I will take on the responsibility as an international election observer to provide some different coverage and perspective to this historic election.
The first issue that I would like to tackle as I have witnessed the build up to this election but also from the previous election ( Kerry vs. Bush) is the lack of substance on the campaign trail. It has come to my notice that there is a perception among the respective campaigns that American people will pick a president based on the following non-issues.

1. Does he/she have a compelling life story?
2. Is he/she for pro-choice or not? (with regards to abortion rights for women)
3. What is his religion and position on faith?
4. What is his position on gay marriage?
5. Is he/she a celebrity?
6. Is he/she a flip-flopper?
7. Is he/she friends with any one who says non-patriotic things about America?
8. Which church does he go to?
9. Does he support private gun ownership?

I could spend hours highlighting the numerous non-issues that show up in campaign ads as well as in speeches made on the campaign trail. It amazes me how little time is spent towards explaining to the American people what the presidential candidate is going to do for them instead of attacking the position of the other candidate. Most of the issues that are listed above lie in the heart of the two party political system in the United States. Those on the right (conservatives) and mostly republican and those on the left (liberals) and mostly democrats. It appears that elections are won on the non-issues which is a shame considering the fact that the American-model of Democracy is the one being spread all over the world.

The reason why I believe elections focus on non-issues is rooted in the lack of awareness about political and economic issues among the American people. It has been stated that an average American reads at the 8th grade level. If one reads at 8th grade level, then I wonder what the level of competence would be for an average American regarding comprehension of political and economic discourse in the country. So with that in mind, it is easy to see why it would be more compelling to earn votes by pointing out issues that affect people in their immediate surroundings rather than complex systems which they cannot understand. It would be easier for an average American to state if they are for pro-choice rather than dissecting the concept of raising/lowering taxes for the rich corporations and how that might influence economic growth. It is very unfortunate that western countries still have to rely on manipulation of the public to earn their votes. Politicians prey on the weakness of the American people which is the failure to understand the substantial issues that will affect their lives. I will later explore in more depth the comparisons between the African election process based on the elections I have witnessed in Uganda and other African nations and the American electoral process. Which is more democratic? Is one better than the other?

A WASTED OPPORTUNITY

2008-06-24T22:10:00.000-07:00

It is always saddening when you listen to the major news channels in America and they are slamming the election process in an African country. This was the case this past week when the drama un-folded in the Zimbabwe run-off election. I wrote a piece a few days ago making the case for the need to stop holding elections without democratic ingredients in the system but rather putting on a show-case for the rest of the world. I believe the events in Zimbabwe could fall under this scenario but call me a flip flopper if you want; it was the WRONG DECISION by the opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai to pull out of the election. The reasons he gave was escalating violence and intimidation of the opposition party by the incumbent Robert Mugabe’s ZANU-PF and his so-called militias---- creating a political climate not conducive for a free and fair election.
I believe it was the wrong decision to give Mugabe a free ride due to the following reasons:

(a) Mugabe had been defeated by the opposition party in the first election and even with violence and intimidation, the opposition had a good shot at winning the runoff. Morgan Tsvangarai won nearly 48 percent of the vote in the March presidential elections and incumbent President Robert Mugabe scored just over 43 percent. Since neither candidate passed the 50 percent threshold, a runoff was necessary--- but with that victory, it doesn't make sense to me why the opposition withdrew from the runoff election.

(b) Morgan Tsvangirai let down his supporters who had already suffered enough and endured the intimidation to support the opposition.

(c) It sends a wrong signal/message to the political foundation in Zimbabwe and Africa at large that elections can’t work. Leaders have to make responsible decisions and not selfish choices. Morgan Tsvangirai did not give the ballot a chance. Election violence and intimidation is not a new chapter in African politics but rather than run away from the challenge, he should have remained in the race to fight for the people of Zimbabwe. African politics has had its struggles and even the people who fought for independence and apartheid in South Africa succeeded in spite of a very intimidating and harsh political environment.

(d) Morgan Tsvangirai called for armed international peace keepers, western countries and the UN to intervene. This was a wrong and fruitless move because Mugabe has made a political career out of criticizing the west, particularly his distaste for the United Kingdom a relationship that turned sour with the land re-distribution. Mugabe stated at a political rally that “Other people can say what they want, but the elections are ours. We are a sovereign state, and that is it."They can shout as loud as they like from Washington or from London or from any other quarter. Our people, only our people, will decide, and no one else."

Much as I understand the reasons and the frustration that Morgan Tsvangirai and his opposition party MDC (Movement for Democtatic Change) experienced in the effort to democratically dethrone Mugabe’s life presidency, the decision he made handed Mugabe another term in office. This was a critical moment for Zimbabwe which has turned out to be a WASTED OPPORTUNITY. Mugabe was sworn in today and even with some western governments calling for tougher sanctions against Zimbabwe, Mugabe is the president of Zimbabwe and Morgan Tsvangirai is somewhere wondering what might have been… The only option left as Tsvangirai recommends is not to recognize the election results. Other world leaders have recommended tougher sanctions on Zimbabwe. The question I ask is who suffers most with sanctions? It is the people of Zimbabwe and not Mugabe and that is why I further argue that Morgan Tsvangirai should have given the people of Zimbabwe another chance….

SEVENTEEN

2008-06-23T20:43:00.000-07:00

There moments when you are watching your television and you hear something which makes you pause---think a little bit and try to determine if you were paying attention, or if you just misheard a statement. I had to turn off my TV today, and then turn it on again to make sure that my head was not experiencing any short-circuits. There was a story today on CNN about the seventeen girls, who got pregnant at Gloucester High school, in Massachusetts. Yah, 17, for those who prefer to look at the digits. As usual there was immediate speculation and theories by the pundits that this was a ‘pregnancy pact", that the girls had agreed to get pregnant at the same time. It gets better! Carolyn Kirk, the mayor of Gloucester came out today to dispel the ground breaking theories and made a statement that ‘there is absolutely no evidence for any planned blood-oath bond in this community to become pregnant.’ Now Ms. Mayor, I have lived in some of the most fertile communities on earth. And never have I witnessed 17 pregnant women in the same village in spite of the large football/soccer team sized families. I think it is a great idea to save ourselves from the misery of scratching out heads to find additional CSI ground-breaking evidence to crack the case. For the sake of sanity, let’s just use the visual evidence we already have and save the finger prints for another time…….

STUCK IN THE SAME CYCLE

2008-06-21T21:18:00.000-07:00

As young people we tend to look up to our elders for inspiration, words of wisdom, encouragement, advice and support. When it comes to the story on the African continent, the young generation has had little to learn from the politics, the governance and the leadership of past generations. The leaders have continued to make the same mistakes that have condemned the nations to the lifetime award of most chaotic and least-economically developed countries or as the optimists’ claim, developing countries. Poor leadership and thirst for power has resulted in a system with no accountability and lack of innovation. Many of us from the continent of Africa have made it from the toddler stage to adulthood under the same president. The service-term for presidency in Africa is currently showing more durability than most marriages. It is a shame and at times flattering to have political exhibitions of elections that yield the same result every four years. A waste of tax payer’s money, just to put on a show for our western counterparts that we are indeed conforming to the democratic principles so that they can send shipments of aid and foreign direct investment. We need better role models and better leaders to create a stronger foundation for our countries and our livelihood. Political cycles are a necessity and a critical tool for innovation and a means to bring new ideas to the table. Most nations are stuck in decades of the same political cycle and it is not surprising that our economies, political growth and quality of life are stagnant.

© Kawuma Daniel Busuulwa

ARE THE 8 MILLENIUM DEVELOPEMENT GOALS SIMPLY A WISH LIST?

2008-03-23T22:24:00.000-07:00

At every global meeting and summit held by the United Nations, we are reminded of the widening gap between the rich and poor in the world. The immediate declaration at these summits is to make a ‘to do’ list and the most spectacular of all was the eight millennium goals for the developing countries. These lists simply state what needs to be achieved in the poorest nations and not what ought to be done to achieve these goals. I have never been a believer in making a ‘TO DO’ list, since I rarely make it through the first two items on my list. Many argue that it helps to have a list so that you can have an idea of the nature of the beast. However, these lists tend to simply re-awaken the fading hopes of the poor and suffering while at the end of the day, we end up having another bad date between the developing countries and our prosperous compatriots from the west who promise to foot the bill and only pay for the dessert. I am particularly going to tackle the list that was compiled in 2000 when world leaders met in New York for the UN Millennium Summit. At this cocktail party, the world leaders agreed on a set of common benchmarks that would improve social, economic and health conditions in the world's poorest countries by 2015.

The Eight Millennium Development Goals
1. Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger
2. Achieve universal primary education
3. Promote gender equality and empower women
4. Reduce child mortality
5. Improve maternal health
6. Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria, and other diseases
7. Ensure environmental sustainability
8. Develop a global partnership for development

It is now 2008 and we are already halfway through the 15 years that were set to accomplish these goals. One can argue that there are still a few years to go and may be the powerful nations can step up and accomplish the stated goals. This is the same rationale I had and sometimes I backed it up with all nighters to prepare for my final-exams which if you knew my GPA would determine as a great or bad idea. Do we expect the UN to go on all-nighters to accomplish these goals in the remaining 7 years? I am not a foreteller but one thing I can bet my life on, is that by the year 2015 all the above stated problems will still exist in the developing countries. The millennium goals are simply a string of a global wish list with no full commitment behind those eight lines. I am not implying that there are no people out there who are doing their best to fight the above problems. I believe that there individuals who are fully committed on the grass root level, but we lack commitment in a top-down strategy. The ‘BIG DOGS’ do not play there starters when it is game time. The global fight against poverty, disease and suffering has been left for the intramural participants without sufficient equipment, coaching, supervision and accountability. And at the end of it all, the ultimate prize for participation is a T-shirt with a ‘thank you for participating’ printed on the back. Helping the poor in the world who struggle to get a single meal a day has never been a top priority for the developed countries. This phenomenon has always been left to the NGOs and other organizations which lack the economic base and power to make a significant impact. It is about time to focus all our resources and tackle the beast as a whole rather than scratch the surface. You can never guarantee a victory when you are not playing your best team. Once in a while in the sports arena we witness some upsets---- when the underdog goes on to lift the ultimate prize. However, when it comes to tackling the eight millennium goals, there can never be an upset victory. We can’t send our bench warmers and expect to solve global poverty and inequality.

Normally after I critic a subject, I come up with what I believe is an alternative and better approach to deal with this dilemma. However, many have tried before and many have failed and I won’t waste your time. As an African, I believe that the above stated millennium goals are fully rooted in the notion of human rights and I believe it is a well crafted list. If I was in an Introduction to literature class and was asked to comment on the list of millennium goals, I would say that----- It is a list that manifests good intentions, gentleness, love, moral-comfort, kindness and provides a sense of purpose, solidarity and good intentions from the west towards those who are suffering and engulfed by poverty in the developing world. I would then ask for some tissue to wipe my tears— and then after recovering from those touching words I would ask the following questions: At what price are those goals going to be achieved and who is going to cash in? How do they (UN & world leaders) intend to achieve those goals? If we achieve these goals, how are these communities going to fit in a competitive capitalist driven economy? What happened to the goals that were set in the past; why should the millennium goals be any different? What role do the developing countries have to play and are they going to buy the message and standards set by these goals? What changes can be made in the external economic environment? The time to act is now and we need to play the best team if there is any hope of lifting the trophy in 2015.

WHAT IS IN YOUR FAV 5?

2008-03-16T19:51:00.001-07:00

When asked what an ideal society would be, we all have great ideas especially after a few drinks or even at the dinner table. Some people are more vocal than others and go out to protest, violently or non-violently. Others make their feelings heard through pen and paper. Some use the power of speech and persuasion while others sit on their ideas. Last weekend a friend posed a question that if I had all the power in the world, what things would I set out to do. It is a question that made me think about what is happening out there and what difference I could make..... Even though I have always believed that the concept of an ideal world is theoretical and has been dubbed Utopian, it doesn't hurt to ask yourself, what if? . This debate to many is narrowed towards economics and politics. An ideal society to many opens up the debate about free markets and private property as the foundation for conflict and the widening gap between poverty and prosperity. This is really not about capitalism vs communism vs socialism ...it is simply my list, So these are my FAV five

1. A world in which man or woman, black or white, rich or poor are treated with equality.
2. A world in which each citizen has access to food, health care and shelter.
3. A world in which we respect and cherish each religion, culture, tribe, race and gender.
4. A world in which peace and love prevail.
5. A world in which community trumps individualism.

What is in your FAV five?
----- and what are you gonna do about it?

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

2008-01-05T13:51:00.000-08:00

It struck me this week about two separate events that highlighted the failure and success of Kenya a country that is currently in turmoil. Violence erupted in Kenya after the re-election of President Mwai Kibaki. His main challenger Raila Odinga Amolo says the poll was rigged. On the other hand with strong Kenyan roots, Barack Obama had a historic and convincing victory in the Iowa caucuses, a win that validated his status as a leading candidate for the Democratic Party. The irony of this dilemma is indicative of what is happening around Africa. Many African born politicians feel that there is no chance of them fulfilling their political growth and success on the continent of Africa. Africa’s politics is clouded with violence and lack of political maturity. Obama who would for instance have the potential to run for presidency of both Kenya and United States would never scoff at the possibility of running for the Kenyan presidency. This is not only a problem in the political arena but also in many other professions.

One of my former teachers told me that ‘it is better to have brain drain, than a brain in the drain.’ This might sound non-patriotic to the continent, but many young Africans have dreams to rise up to our full potential. African countries and governments are not offering the foundation and conditions for the success and growth which has resulted into the massive exodus of young talent. Many claim that it is hard to figure out how this trend can be reversed. However, I believe it all starts from our leaders. We need leaders who are ready to sacrifice and serve the people. Leaders who are not simply thirsting for power and dominance; leaders who respect the diversity we have on the continent; leaders who are ready to unify and refrain from tribal and religious divisions. We need to start holding onto these leaders before they leave for greener pastures.