• I dream of the day when these, the African mathematicians and computer specialists in Washington and New York, the African physicists, engineers, doctors, business managers and economists, will return from London and Manchester and Paris and Brussels to add to the African pool of brain power, to enquire into and find solutions to Africa's problems and challenges, to open the African door to the world of knowledge, to elevate Africa's place within the universe of research the information of new knowledge, education and information -Thambo Mbeki, former South African President
  • They therefore concluded that “the findings of this (and other) surveys indicate that coverage of Africa, by the leading sources of American media is, at best, dismissive of the continent’s progress and potential, and thus leading to continued ‘exotification’ and marginalization of the African continent. At worst, coverage disregards recent trends toward democratization, thus betraying an almost contemptuous lack of interest in the potential and progress being achieved on the continent.”

Above excerpt is from a writer: Gbemisola Olujobi

  • By Gbemisola Olujobi - The Africa You Need to Know - Posted on Nov 28, 2006 See Full Article above

Why is the African image so negative?

  • Tell the Truth
  • What is your image of Africa?

Sunday, March 1, 2009

Accountability, Responsibilty, Law and good Attitude

It's funny coz i've been in this country for so long, and everyday i appreciate what i have learned, read, seen and received. I'm blessed to have a degree in Business, and so blessed to have worked in both private and public sector in the last 10 years. What amazes me is a bunch of things as i've attempted to describe below.

The social security database system. A number that binds you to you, and whether you are in the hospital, work, church, the police station and even in the liquor store, the surveillance cameras and your ID bind you to the SSN number. If you fail to pay up debt, they'll catch you. Your credit, reputation and any luck you may have in your future, falls in your SSN number. Responsibility, accountability, paid up dues builds the economy.

The paycheck system. Once you hold a job in a public or private office - whether as a manager, clerk or janitor, you get paid. It is against the law to call someone as your employee and not pay them. Selling, buying and exchanging, plus responsibility and accountability grows the economy.

The Public Transport System. Enter a bus, put in some money in the coin box, and have yourself a seat. It' s as easy as 123. The buses will take you where you want to go, if you are in the right one. The driver will gladly show you where you need to go and which transfer bus you need. The trains don't just derail unless the driver is texting...and they are all installed with survillance cameras that's continously recording every minute.Accountability, responsibility, and obeying the law makes the economy grow.

The Safety/Health Environment Regulations. You can't get in the bus or a building without shoes. You can't operate a public or private building without an entrance and exit, safety standards hanged by the door, and a plan of exit in case of emergency posted on the wall. Wet paint, water and other hazards are posted for the care of customers.

The Banking System. Once you have some money, you don't need an employer's letter of reference, or birth certificates and other time wasting requirements. Open the account, maintain it, and so long there is money in there, you can withdraw from any location in the country. You can't deposit fraudlous checks, you'll pay $25 for it. You receive great customer service, and you don't need 5 cashiers, one to say hello and welcome, 2nd to smile, 3rd to check your balance, 4th to ask you for your ID and 5th to finally withdraw your money. NO! there is only one who's trained to do all 5 things. That saves banks alot of money. Accountability, responsibility, great customer service and good attitude grows the economy.

The Law Enforcement System. My favorite is the police presence on the roads. They make money by pulling you over if you don't obey traffic rules. They key in your number plates, your SSN number pops up, your address and criminal history. Need i say more? If you don't stop, there is back up police waiting in the next exit, and at this point, you are in big trouble. That has worked in America. Accountability, responsibility and adhering to safety/environment and law enforcement rules, grows the economy.

The School system. Dropping out of school is a foolish thing to do especially when school is free. Kids have the ability to do well, be in school and pass well to go to college. Parents do not have to pay a dime. Willing teachers, dedicated parents, accountability and responsibility grows the economy.

That plus all other great things combined make this country a great place to succeed, work hard, get connected, prosper and have a great life.

Life is liveable...here in America. Personally I'm blessed with a wonderful family: a husband to die for and kids i can't do without.

I have also received my education, training, experience, skills and knowledge. But i want to give it all away. I am patriotic, and Kenya is where my heart is. I believe my country can achieve even more. I believe my country is destined for more, and i believe I am a part of that happening. I want to be a part, because i love my country and I would die miserable if i didn't get a chance to help build my country. That's my point.

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